St. Pete Life March/April 2023

A remodeling project involves a lot of moving parts, a lot of products and more importantly, requires a lot of handson care. At King Contracting, Inc., our Design-Build Process helps you see how all these components come together to result in a beautiful remodel of your home, whether it’s a single-family house, condo or townhouse.

From kitchen remodels to high-end whole house remodels to sophisticated custom designed homes, we have worked together with our clients to design, remodel and build beautiful homes in the Greater St. Petersburg Area for over a decade. Because over 75% of our clients live in a FEMA Flood Plain, we have gained the professional expertise to guide you thru the process to ensure that you are compliant, all while offering you a design with your personal touch that accentuates your existing home!

To deliver award-winning remodeling and custom Design-Build projects to our discriminating client base, King Contracting puts a lot of emphasis on continued education of its employees. We have Universal Design Certified Professionals, Certified Remodeling Project Managers and a Certified Remodeler on-staff to help assemble your thoughts onto paper and in turn, deliver a high-end finished product to you that your family will enjoy for years to come!

Doug King, CR, UDCP, MBA, CGC, NARI National Past President 2020/2021

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As our community grows, so does our ability to care for it.

Our new patient tower is now open.

For 90 years, St. Anthony’s Hospital has treated the community with extraordinary, compassionate care. That continues with our newest project: a 90-bed patient tower, featuring all private rooms, plus a new lobby and Seventh Avenue entrance. We’ve also renovated select cardiovascular and respiratory spaces and moved and upgraded the cafeteria and dining area. This expansion increases our ability to offer even better care and an enhanced patient experience. As the needs of our community grow, so does our commitment to meeting them at St. Anthony’s Hospital, the only BayCare hospital in St. Petersburg.

Learn more: StAnthonys.org

Model:

As we roll into 2023, changes are a’coming to our city. Look around – look up! – to see us growing by leaps and bounds. Word has gotten out about our beautiful, walkable, city on the Bay as visitors turn into residents and businesses open at a dramatic pace.

This issue takes a deep dive into the current St. Pete real estate market, with insights into the latest trends in building your own home, renovating, landscaping and designing both inside and out. Here in the Sunshine City, finding that perfect home can be dizzying, but the right real estate professional can make the journey a lot easier.

Despite all the change, there is one place that still embraces our past — Sunken Gardens. One of the original roadside attractions from the early 1900s, Sunken Gardens has gone through ups and downs and many changes, but today it’s a thriving part of the city’s heritage and attracting more visitors than ever. We take a look at the Gardens past, present and future and the new History Center. Don’t miss a visit soon.

The arts community in St. Pete is strong and diverse and always offers interesting stories. We interview local artist and philanthropist Beth Morean (yes, that Morean) about her new venture, and take a look at the little theater that could — the small yet mighty Off-Central with theater veteran Ward Smith at the helm. Did you know that the Dali Museum has a teen fashion design program? Check out our story on this fabulous partnership with PCCA/Gibbs High that nurtures our young local talent.

There’s a lot more, too, like our story on the talented ikebana artists who create floral masterpieces for the Museum of Fine Arts’ annual Art in Bloom. Keep this issue on your coffee table!

PUBLISHER/CEO

Beth Ann Drake

EDITOR

Marcia Biggs

ART DIRECTOR

Alicia Brown

ADVERTISING

Ed Barry

Ad Director

Betsy Phillips

Senior Account Executive

Debbie Radsick

Account Executive CONTRIBUTORS

Megan Simons

Women’s Fashion

Kaitlyn Duke

The Wine Cellar

Cindy Stovall/Ro Martinez

Nitish S. Rele/Ernest Hooper Contributors

CO-FOUNDER/BUSINESS MANAGER

Ralph Zuckerman

Beth Ann Drake Publisher

Advertising: 813.447.9900 bdrake@stpetelifemag.com

Editorial: editor@stpetelifemag.com

Photo by Cary JohnFlorida

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Gardens

BY MARCIA BIGGS

There is a nip in the air on this bright winter morning, but it’s downright tropical in a 4.1-acre patch of paradise hidden off 4th Street North near downtown St. Petersburg. After nearly 100 years of ups and downs, Sunken Gardens thrives today as a cherished city landmark welcoming nearing 200,000 visitors annually.

At a morning ceremony in late October, extended family members of the original landowners, the Turner family, joined Mayor Ken Welch and Gardens staff in cutting the ribbon on a new History Center dedicated to telling the Sunken Gardens story. The building that holds the exhibit is a fitting space — it’s the original Mediterranean-style entrance on 18th Avenue N.

St. Pete’s famous botanical gardens are alive and well —and home to a new History Center.

Sunken

Above, founder George Turner outside the original entrance. Left, the sign on 4th Street North circa 1960s was replicated and installed in February

Inside, large storyboards, short videos and walls filled with vintage photos bring educational perspective show visitors a pioneering story that starts in the early 1900s with the Turner family and a roadside produce stand, eventually developing into a nationally renowned roadside attraction with exotic birds and an alligator show, then falling onto hard times until 1999 when the City of St. Petersburg came to the rescue.

It’s a blooming success story.

It all starts with a sinkhole

In 1911, George Turner Sr. and his wife Eula bought 4.1 acres of swampland one mile north from the city center of St. Petersburg. George was a prolific gardener, and Eula was also a horticulturalist. He devised a terracotta tile system to drain a large sinkhole on the property that was 15 feet deep, leaving rich mucky soil ideal for his gardens.

The Turners owned more property nearby filled with a variety of citrus trees and other vegetables. Fourth Street was a busy thoroughfare when the Gandy Bridge was built in the 1920s, with people traveling by car from Tampa to St. Petersburg. The Turners set up a roadside produce stand to sell their citrus and when travelers heading down 4th Street saw his tropical garden they always wanted to explore, so George started charging them a nickel to enter. By 1935, the Turners walled in the property and charged 15 cents to enter the “sunken gardens.” In 1936, “Turner’s Sunken Gardens” officially opened.

George’s sons and grandsons continued his vision, growing the attraction and Florida’s tourism industry along with it. In 1955, a flock of flamingoes was brought in, bringing much acclaim to the Gardens. A decade later, a walk-through aviary was added allowing visitors to experience up-close encounters with tropical birds.

In 1966, the Turner family bought the building owned by Coco Cola Bottling Company on 4th Street N. and transformed it into a new entrance. They built cave-like habitats and brought in monkeys, penguins, pygmy goats and even an alligator wrestling show. It was the heyday of Sunken Gardens, appearing on national television and radio shows, and visitors came from across the country.

In 1979, Ralph Turner retired and sold the property to his three sons. George’s son Ralph eventually become sole owner of the Gardens and promoted the Gardens as a “must-see” Florida roadside attraction.

Continued on next page

Above, a small collection of resident parrots is walked daily throughout the gardens. Below, inside the new History Center.

But In the 1980s, with Disney World and other theme parks booming in Orlando, visitation fell off and maintaining the gardens became a financial burden for the Turners. In 1999, the City of St. Petersburg purchased Sunken Gardens for $3.8 million raised after citizens voted to tax themselves to keep the attraction from closing. The Gardens reopened in January 2000.

“We were very excited to have the Turner family members here for the grand opening of the History Center to see their legacy on display,” said education coordinator Jennifer Tyson. “Some still live in the neighborhood, they donated items for the exhibits and provided a lot of the information for the displays.

“It’s really through three generations of resilience and fortitude that we still have Sunken Gardens,” she adds. “For 10 years during the 1990s it was for sale, and only at the end of that time did the community rally together to save it. City Council agreed to put a referendum on the ballot for a one-time property tax to save the garden … it’s rare for people to tax themselves to save a historic property.”

Back to the future

On weekdays, the Gardens are peaceful as visitors meander walkways under arbors draped in jasmine vine. They stroll in the shade beneath royal palms and traveler palms, live oaks, even a rainbow eucalyptus. There are fruit trees including loquat and mango, banana and papaya, butterfly gardens, a cactus and succulent area, bougainvillea, bird of paradise, flowering ginger, tea bush, azalea, Japanese lantern plants.

Scattered throughout are benches for resting and ponds filled with fat, happy koi swimming in and out of small waterfalls.

“Something is always blooming year-round,” says horticulture specialist Maggie Jensen as we walk the grounds. “But the best time to visit is in spring when the gardenias and jasmine are in bloom, the fragrance is amazing.”

Jensen is one of four city staff who tend the property daily, along with a dedicated team of some 15 volunteers who are highly versed in horticulture. There is much to do, especially after a storm or windy day when leaves can fill the numerous koi ponds, and branches scatter debris along the walkways. Jensen proudly surveys a new orchid, air plant and bromeliad garden that took six months to design and build with hundreds of plants. During cold spells, a tarp needs to cover the orchid arbor, she says, and space heaters are brought in to keep them from freezing.

There is an ebb and flow but at any one time, the gardens can be home for up to 500 species of exotic, tropical and subtropical plants, trees and flowers. Cardinals, titmouse and sparrows flit about, but the once popular bird shows and aviaries are gone; these are drop-ins from the neighborhood.

“In the 1950s and ‘60s, we had a lot of animals,” says Dwayne Biggs, the Gardens’ supervising director. “The avian collection has always been a big draw here. But to have gardens and be able to incorporate tropical birds takes special staff and care.”

PHOTO/CITY OF ST. PETERSBURG

When the City purchased the property in 1999, safety, along with the budget, became a priority and the animal shows became a thing of the past. The only birds inhabiting the gardens now are six macaws, four amazon parrots, two cockatoos – all are rescues, says Biggs, highly socialized birds acquired after their previous owners died or could no longer provide care. They are walked throughout the gardens periodically to the immense enjoyment of visitors.

“We want to spread key conservation messages about exotic birds and what the commitment is,” says Biggs. “We are very attentive to their enrichment, traveling them around the garden, giving them playtime. Birds are social, they enjoy interaction with visitors.”

Then, of course, there is the popular flock of 21 Chilean flamingos who became national media stars last September after a staff member posted a photo on social media of them hunkered down in a restroom as Hurricane Ian was approaching Florida. The photo went viral, appearing in newspapers from USA Today to

the Washington Post, on TV news and social media. It was an unexpected but welcome promotion for St. Pete’s Sunken Gardens.

“The magnitude of the storm was such that we moved the entire collection of animals into the admin building,” says Biggs. “It was perfect — a hurricane-safe building, with cement floors and clean running water. Visitors still want to see the bathroom the flamingos were in,” he adds with a smile. A new animal care clinic is planned for the future which would supply much needed veterinary and quarantine space, he adds.

Over the decades, Sunken Gardens has evolved and become more popular than ever. “During the pandemic, visitation increased,” says Biggs “Our attendance can reach 1,000 visitors a day on weekends and holidays and we’re the top wedding venue in the city.”

It’s something that George and Eula Turner would be proud of.

Sunken Gardens is open Monday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm, and Sunday from noon to 4 pm. Adults $15, seniors $12, children 2-17 $6. For more information, go to www.stpete.org/visitors/sunken_gardens.php Admission to the History Center is free with garden admission.

Upcoming events

March 16 – Florida’s Carnivorous Plants Talk & Plant Sale – 6 -7:30 pm.

April 2 – Orchid Festival – 10 am - 4:30 pm

April 22 – Earth Day Scavenger Hunt for All Ages – 10 am - 4 pm Mondays, Wednesdays, Thursdays – Yoga – 10:30 - 11:45 a.m.

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Art in the Wood

See local artists at work in their studios and purchase original art during the annual Historic Kenwood Artist Studio Tour – Art in the Wood on March 18-19 from 10 am to 5 pm. The selfguided tour sponsored by the Artist Enclave is free and affords a great opportunity to stroll the charming streets of this friendly community. Some 30 artists will be exhibiting at 21 different locations. Works range from ceramics, painting and sculpture, to jewelry, photography and mixed media. Included this year will be an exhibit at Kenwood Gables Boutique Bed & Breakfast 2801 7th Avenue N., where you can pick up a map. For information and maps to download, go to kenwoodartistenclave.org/artist-studio-tour/

Paddy Fest at the Pier

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day on Friday, March 17, at Paddy Fest St. Pete at Williams Park, 350 2nd Ave. N, when it transforms into an Irish music festival, complete with traditional dance performances, Celtic arts and crafts and games, Irish food and drink, food trucks and live bands. Performing throughout the day will be Dunedin Pipe Band, The Gilleoghan Irish Step Dancers, Lucid Druid, Stormbringer and others. Admission is $5 and includes one free green beer, ages 21 and up after 5 pm. VIP tickets for $150. For tickets and more information, visit paddyfeststpete.com

Mainsail Art Fest

The ever-popular Mainsail Art Festival takes over Vinoy Park on April 22-23. Mainsail is one of the premier arts festivals of the year in the ‘Burg, featuring some 250 fine arts and crafts exhibitors from across the country in a juried competition. Browse and buy highquality ceramics, glass, jewelry, photography, sculpture, paintings and more. A children’s craft area, student art show, live musical entertainment, and a food court all beckon from 9 am to 6 pm Saturday and 10 am to 5 pm Sunday. Check out mainsailart.org for updated information.

Blues on the Water

Tampa Bay Blues Fest is back April 14-16 at Vinoy Park on the downtown St. Pete waterfront. Headliners will be Robert Cray, Tower of Power, The Fabulous Thunderbirds, Tab Benoit, Ana Popovic, Mr. Sipp and Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Kick-off party is Thursday, April 13, at 8 pm with Tommy Castro and the Painkillers at the Palladium. Friday and Saturday general admission $70, Sunday $60; VIP tickets available. Parking garages ($10) recommended, with free shuttle pickup at 1st Avenue S. and 1st Avenue N. on 1st Street NE. For more information and to purchase tickets, go to tampabaybluesfest.com

Tall Ships are Coming

Get ready to set sail – the tall ships are coming to town.

Tall Ships St. Pete will transform the city’s Port St. Pete into a maritime celebration March 30 – April 2. Festivities kick off with a Parade of Sail on Thursday, March 30, with a procession of traditionally rigged vessels sailing from the Gulf of Mexico into Tampa Bay through the Sunshine Skyway and into Bayboro Harbor. Ships will be accompanied by area pleasure craft and can be viewed from the St. Pete Pier and Demens Landing from 1:30 to 5:30 pm; VIP Viewing from the Pier is $175; Captain’s Reception at St. Pete Yacht Club from 6 to 8:30 pm; tickets $150.

General admission dockside Friday through Sunday is $9.95; with on-deck ship tours from $15.95 (children) to $21.95 (adult). Special events include a Photography Pass (7 to 9:30 am) and Sunset

Soiree (7 to 10 pm) on Friday, Sunrise Yoga (7 am) and Rock the Dock (7 to 10 pm) on Saturday, and a Sunday Brunch (9-11 am).

A dockside festival featuring food trucks, music, and vendors along with scheduled sailing cruises begin at 10 am each day. For complete schedule and ticket information, visit tallshipsstpete.com

Get Out Your Sunscreen

Mix and mingle with filmmakers, actors, writers, producers and celebrities April 27-30 at the annual Sunscreen Film Festival held at the Sundial AMC 12 Theatres at Sundial downtown St. Pete. Workshops and panels featuring filmmakers and talent will be scheduled throughout the weekend, along with non-stop screenings of independent films from across the country. The event wraps up with an awards party which you can bet will be the best ticket in town. A schedule of events was not available at press time, but visit sunscreenfilmfestival.com for updates and to purchase tickets.

Passion Flowers

The annual Art in Bloom weekend at the Museum of Fine Arts offers local ikebana artists a chance to shine.

BY GRETCHEN WARD WARREN

What is it that makes flowers so enchanting? Maybe the fragrance. Certainly, the dazzling array of colors they add to our lives. For floral designers, though, it’s the individual essence of each flower that fascinates, as well as the potential to reshape blooms and branches by artful trimming.

Evidence of their artistry will soon be on display at Art in Bloom at the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA). This is the 26th anniversary of the popular event, which annually draws the museum’s largest crowds. People flock to admire the beautiful, creative floral arrangements, each of which has been inspired by a particular art work. “Interpreting them is a challenge,” says one designer. “Every great work of art has a mood, an essence. That’s what you have to try to capture, but without exactly copying the picture.”

Art in Bloom was initially organized by the Garden Club of St. Petersburg, one of whose members was inspired to do so after seeing the famous Art in Bloom at Boston’s Museum of Fine Arts. Currently, it is presented in St. Pete by the MFA in conjunction with its support organization, The Margaret Acheson Stuart Society. The Society uses the occasion to host two major fundraising events for the museum, an evening gala and a formal sit-down lunch with an entertaining program. To headline both, a renowned member of the floral industry is invited. Margot Shaw, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of Flower Magazine is this year’s guest.

Among those whose floral design work is showcased at AIB are members of area garden clubs, Ikebana International, local florists, and private individuals with noted skills in flower arranging. Being invited to participate is considered an honor. Each year, the Museum selects approximately 50 artworks to be featured in the exhibition. Arrangers are asked to indicate their first, second and third choices of a work to interpret, but the museum makes the final decision about who to assign to each.

“You don’t always get your first choice,” says Jeanne Houlton, President of the Florida Chapter of the Ichiyo School of Ikebana. Houlton has exhibited at Art in Bloom for 24 years and says it can be a challenge. She confesses to hanging a blown-up photograph of her assigned artwork on the wall in her ikebana studio: “I stare and stare at it, sometime for weeks, until inspiration hits me.”

Another longtime designer always researches the artist of her assigned work. “I try to learn what inspired him or her to create, the background story, I guess you could say.” One year she was assigned a painting of a weary soldier, seated in a barren battlefield, holding a gun. The only colors in the painting were browns, tan and black. “These were not colors one normally associates with flowers,” she recalls. “Fortunately, I found some beautiful, dried magnolia leaves that perfectly matched the dusty brown color of his uniform. It was such a sad painting and exactly captured the horror and futility

Ikebana arrangement by Janine Ducoin-Arnold/Photo Dale Leifeste

of war. I tried to do the same with my arrangement,” she says, “but it wasn’t easy.”

Ikebana a highlight

Well-represented among the local invited flower arrangers are many members of Saint Petersburg’s Ikebana International Chapter #65. Dedicated to promoting ikebana, the art of Japanese floral design, the chapter is one of the oldest and best known in the country. Its members exhibit regularly at various venues around the city, including the Imagine Museum, various art galleries, and the chapter’s annual exhibition in Treasure Island.

Recently, the chapter celebrated the life of Barbara Goss, its oldest, longtime member. At 95, Goss is still exhibiting her stunning arrangements, including at Art in Bloom. Active on the ikebana chapter’s board of directors for many years, her enthusiasm for the art form has never waned. She discovered it while living in Japan in the 1960’s. There, she became involved in the development of

Ikebana International, whose motto is “Friendship Through Flowers.” She served as Vice President in charge of developing ikebana chapters worldwide. Among those was Chapter 65 in St. Pete, founded in 1962.

“Initially,” she recalls, “it was started by a group of local flower show judges who were curious about ikebana. They wanted to study it, and when I moved to St. Pete in 1964 many began to study with me. Goss, a teacher in the Sogetsu School of ikebana, became involved in the art form during the six years she and her husband, an employee of GE, lived in Tokyo.

“I got into it as a way to make friends,” she remembers, “and a major reason I’ve stayed is because of that. The men and women in our chapter are incredible and worldly. Among our eighty members are retired doctors, lawyers, professors and business owners. We even have a couple of retired ballet dancers!”

Many are also artists in other

Continued on next page

The Art of Ikebana

The cycle of life - yesterday, today, and tomorrow - is represented in ikebana by the use of all phases of floral life, from buds to demise. Shocking for newcomers can be the sight of a Japanese master stripping away all the leaves and flowers on a branch of lilies, leaving only one unopened bud as the focal point of an arrangement. “It’s about promise,” he says, “about the imminent birth of something beautiful.”

Good arrangements can also tell a story. The positioning of two flowers nodding toward each other may suggest a mother-child relationship, or that of two lovers. In addition, an ikebana arrangement often indicates the direction of the wind. It’s never static. There’ s movement in it and plenty of negative space. “We like to say there must be room for the birds to fly through it,“ practitioners comment. Above all, students learn, “it must be alive!” Indeed, the term ikebana translates to “living flowers.”

Flower arranging is also a mixture of natural and unnatural. While Mother Nature has produced the floral materials, the hand of the arranger is always visible. Often a branch has been deliberately curved by the designer, or some of the leaves stripped away to better show the shape of a stem. Tropical flowers from South America may be positioned next to evergreen greenery from New England — something that would never occur in nature. As artists, flower arrangers have free reign to create in many unusual ways.

Barbara Goss lived and studied ikebana in Japan. Right, an arrangement by a member of Ikebana International Chapter #65. Photos/Dale Leifeste

mediums such as photography, ceramics and painting, she says. “It’s our members’ passion and commitment to improving the world through flowers,” she says, “that has kept the organization so vibrant for more than half a century.”

Challenges abound

Certain paintings lend themselves better than others to interpretation with flowers. For obvious reasons, those full of colors like pinks, blues, and yellows are longtime favorites of Art in Bloom designers. As a result, several such paintings, such as Robert Henri’s Village Girl, have repeatedly been part of the event. Of interest, though, is how differently, from year to year, designers can interpret the same painting.

One devoted attendee of AIB has noted that as she strolls through the exhibition, she hears many different reactions to the designers’ interpretations. “If you stand by an arrangement long enough,” she says, “you will hear some people who say they love the floral interpretation and others who definitely do not. The public is quite opinionated about the skills of the designers!” But one of the wonderful things about Art in Bloom, she says, “is that it forces people to really look at the artworks. When you pause in front of a floral arrangement and take time to compare it to the work that inspired it, you begin to see the art with new eyes - and appreciate it in much more detail.”

Cassie Osterloth, owner of Wonderland Floral Art in St. Pete has exhibited at AIB every year except one. She’s known for her large arrangements using many different kinds of flowers. “There is such a wide variety to choose from,” she says. Some flowers are delicate and ethereal, others dense and opulent. Each, she feels, conveys a different mood. “One year,” she remembers, “my painting had a storm rolling in over mountains. I chose spiky, blue thistle and silver-

Art in Bloom at Museum of Fine Arts matches floral arrangements with paintings and other works of art. Photo/ Dale Leifeste

Photo/ Gretchen Ward Warren

grey eucalyptus leaves to replicate those angry looking, rain-filled clouds.”

Noting its popularity, many art museums around the country also now hold Art in Bloom exhibitions. Staging them has its challenges, especially for the designers. Keeping their arrangements well-hydrated is of greatest concern. “We have to keep them looking fresh throughout all four days of the exhibition,” one arranger says. “No one wants to look at dead flowers!” She goes every morning before the museum opens to check on hers. “I also try to use flowers I know are more long lasting than others. You can’t lose with carnations, lilies, and chrysanthemums, but roses and hydrangeas always present a challenge. They’re water hogs!”

Carol Lucia, a nationally renowned flower show judge and longtime member of the Garden Club of St. Petersburg, remembers well the first Art in Bloom at the MFA. She was instrumental in organizing it. “We had flowers everywhere in the museum, even in the garden courtyard,” she says. This year, continuing the tradition, more than 50 arrangements will be placed throughout the galleries, some created by newly invited floral arrangers whose artistry has never before been seen at Art in Bloom. The overall effect promises to be stunning, proving yet again why year after year this is the MFA’s most popular event. Go early – and prepare for a visual floral feast!

IF YOU GO

Art in Bloom will be held March 16-19 at the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg. Viewing of floral arrangements included with museum admission. Check museum website for hours. For tickets to the Flowers After Hours “Bourbon and Bubbles” event in the galleries on Thursday, March 16, 6:30-8:30 p.m., and “Living Floral,” the luncheon at the Vinoy Renaissance Resort, Friday, March 17, 10:30 a.m., please visit www.stuartsociety.org. “Conversations with the Designers”, Sunday, March 19, 2-4 p.m., is included with museum admission.

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Visitors admire the work of arranger Janine Ducoin-Arnold at Art in Bloom. Photo/ Dale Leifeste

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New Morean art-making space aims to be center for creatives A Class Act

BY MARCIA BIGGS

St. Pete’s arts community has one more feather in its cap. The Morean Workshop Space, a 9,000-square-foot event space created solely for art media workshops, opened in early December. “It’s the last piece of the puzzle,” says Beth Morean, the St. Pete Beach artist and philanthropist whose financial support and business acumen helped establish the Morean Arts Center, including the Chihuly Collection and the Morean Center for Clay.

The workshop space is Beth Morean’s new baby, an idea she nurtured during the pandemic when she purchased a run-down auto repair shop in a historic building along the Pinellas Trail. It was just a stone’s throw from the Morean Center for Clay, in the heart of the city’s thriving Warehouse Arts District.

“It’s was a horrible mess, there must have been thousands

of auto parts from end to end … it took a year just to clean it out before construction could begin,” she says. Today, the completely renovated two-story building offers windows that allow plenty of natural sunlight to fill the first floor workspace. There are plenty of tables and seating, kilns for firing, a full kitchen, and rooms for rest and relaxation upstairs.

In this solo venture, which is not under the umbrella of the Morean Arts Center, Beth Morean is hoping to fill the void for much needed space that will allow up to 200 students and professionals to come together from one-day classes to multiweek retreats to learn, share and be inspired.

Case in point, in January a Wood Fire Workshop brought some 25 participants from across the country to a two-week workshop with three of the nation’s leading experts in the technique

PHOTO/MARCIA BIGGS

Beth Morean sits amid her personal collection of ceramics and pottery in a private studio at the Morean Workshop Space.

of wood firing. A three-day workshop in early February brought in leading experts on techniques for surface work on pottery and ceramics and a Summer in the City series of summer camps for adults is slated for this summer.

But the workshop space is not just for potters. “There’s a shortage of space for large arts workshops in St. Petersburg,” says Morean. “This space is open to all media, not just clay. Any organization is welcome to use the space.”

Private collection

During a recent tour, casually dressed in jeans and a sweater, Morean shared a glimpse of her private ceramics collection she recently installed in a gallery space which is not open to the public. The historical collection dates from the 1930s and “many pieces are extremely important,” she noted.

All are by renowned or favorite potters, many she knew or knows personally. Some are painted Japanese figures, others are raw and organic forms. In one corner, a 10-foothigh Nude Woman sculpture oversees the gallery like a sentinel. Morean can name the artist behind every piece and describe how it was created.

A bookcase and cabinets along one wall holds smaller pieces like mugs, figurines, bowls and teapots. “These are from famous artists or presenters who have visited the Morean over the past decades,” she says. She points out three panels on the wall, adorned with swirls and explosions of color. “That’s a Don Wright triptych that was influenced by Hubble telescope images,” she says. “Don lived in Arizona and was a master kiln builder, a master in wood firing.”

Creating a legacy

Beth Morean has a knack for being a visionary and a risk taker.

Originally from the Detroit area, she moved to St. Petersburg in the 1990s for family business (her father William Morean co-founded Jabil Circuit), got married and had two children. When she signed up for pottery classes at Suntan Arts Center, she met Valerie Scott Knaust, who eventually became longtime director of the Morean Center for Clay and now the Workshop Space. Scott Knaust introduced Morean into the arts community, she said, and Morean found herself drawn to the art of pottery and those who created it.

She gifted $1.2 million to help purchase a new building for the struggling St. Pete Arts Center, which is today the Morean Arts Center. In turn, she served as a board member, participating in fundraising, operations, and making and teaching pottery art. “I’m a business person and soon came to realize we needed to be a 501(c3), but also needed a sustainable source of income,” she says. “You can’t rely on grants and donations.”

She reached out to her friend, world renowned glass artist

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Photos from Morean Workshop Space

Dale Chihuly, to convince him to open a permanent collection in St. Petersburg. Morean purchased 18 installations of his work to display in the gallery which opened in 2010, the only permanent Chihuly Collection in the United States.

It was part of her long-range business plan to raise money for the Arts Center. “That allowed us to create a space that would charge an admission and give us a sustainable amount of money every month to pay our bills, offer classes and scholarships,” she explains.

One of Dale Chihuly’s requirements was public education through an interactive hot shop and classes in glass blowing. The gears started turning in Morean’s head. “We (Morean Arts Center) had a tiny clay facility at the time and I said let’s turn that into a hot shop and I’ll find us another building we can devote to clay.”

At that time the Historic Seaboard Train Station on 22nd Street S. was for sale. The old freight depot circa 1926 was sitting vacant along the railroad track surrounded by blight. Nevertheless, Morean bought it and renovated it. It opened in 2009 as the Morean Center for Clay with studios for up to 50 artisans, classes open to the public, exhibit and event space.

“At the time there was nothing in that district,” she said, “It was a rough crimeridden area to be in. I knew we had to turn things around. I called Duncan McClellan who was working in Tampa at the time, encouraged him to come over to the warehouse district in an effort to revitalize the area. He bought the warehouse just a few blocks away.”

Today, the Warehouse Arts District around the Morean Center for Clay and the Morean Workshop Space is a popular destination for locals and tourists, known for its murals, brewpubs, galleries and working artist studios. There are still industrial companies here, but others have moved in like the massive 3 Daughters Brewery and Five Deuces Galleria, the ArtsXChange, and more recently, a high-end restaurant, The Urban Stilllhouse. The Factory complex nearby is nearly three city blocks of event and gallery spaces, including the Fairgrounds St. Pete.

With the arts now firmly established in the Warehouse Arts District, Beth Morean clearly feels a sense of accomplishment as her contributions over the past few decades have paved the way to making the Sunshine City a City of the Arts, as well.

The Morean Workshop Space is at 2025 3rd Ave. S. in St. Petersburg; to learn more go to moreanworkshopspace.org.

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A 1936 Spanish revival jewel

Here is a rare opportunity to own a completely restored and renovated Cade Allen home in beautiful St Petersburg. Situated on an OVERSIZED LOT in the heart of St Pete this 1936 Spanish revival jewel, constructed by renowned brick mason and builder Cade Allen, will take you back to an amazing time in construction. On this oversized lot a detached 2 car garage was added to match the existing home along with a custom lagoon style heated SALTWATER POOL with grotto, and lush landscaping. All throughout the living areas are the original restored oak wood floors. The kitchen was renovated in 2017 with strict attention to detail. There is all

new custom cabinetry kept within the time period, tile, hardware imported from Italy and even a wet bar. ALL of the windows were replaced with custom made double hung HURRICANE IMPACT to match the original window design. There is a detailed list of all the improvements that will be shared along with your very own private tour to show you each detail of this amazing one-of-a-kind home. There is much attention to detail that is very evident during the renovations to fit the charm and character of this special Cade Allen home. It has certainly been restored to its glory! Schedule your private tour today!

FOOD BITES

In the never-ending competition to be dubbed winner of the annual Tampa Bay Food Fight, this year’s winner was, ta-dah, St. Petersburg! Executive Chef Susan Burdian of Social Roost was selected as the 2023 Captain of Team St. Pete, leading an all-star roster than included Chef Lee Aquino from Teak/Birchwood, Chef/ owner Matt Smith of The Hangar Restaurant & Flight Lounge, Chef Jason Gordon of Cap’s Steamer Bar, Chef Chris Falzon of Crown & Bull, Chef Mike Malone of Tropicana Field/Tampa Bay Rays, and Chef Mike Roberts from Wild Child. Social Roost won big, too, with awards for Best St. Pete Restaurant and Best Cocktail in Tampa Bay.

The festive cook-off took place January 31 at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa and assisted in raising over $600,000 for Metropolitan Ministries.

Rumba Island Bar and Grill, which has one location in Clearwater, has recently opened at 6445 4th Street N,, formerly home to a WingHouse Bar & Grill. Get a taste of the islands in a tropical atmosphere with appetizers, salads, sandwiches, rice bowls, chicken, pork, ribs and plenty of fresh seafood. Best bets are Island-Style Quesadillas and Seared Tuna Nachos, Jerk Chicken Rice Bowl, the Freshest Grouper Sandwich, and Rasta Pasta with sautéed shrimp, scallops, and mussels. We love the all-day Happy Hour, with two-for-one margaritas, sangria, and well cocktails. Rumbagrill.com

Chef Ivan at Savory Spice Shop in downtown St. Pete has just the ticket for celebrating St. Paddy’s Day with an authentic Irish cooking class from 6 to 8 pm on March 17 that includes food samples and wine/beer/cocktails. Avoid the crazies and hang out in the shop where you’ll be treated to a menu that includes Sausage Bread with Irish Dipping Sauce, Mini Shepherd Pies, Corned Beef & Vegetable Medley, Irish Whiskey Truffles and an Irish Whiskey cocktail. Savory Spice Shop is located at 400 Beach Drive Suite 173. To sign up for this or any other cooking classes, go to savoryspiceshop.com and select St. Petersburg or call (727)-290-9893.

A best-kept secret is out of the bag. Uptown Eats, a breakfast and lunch bistro nestled in the Historic Uptown neighborhood at 689 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N., has made Yelp’s Top 100 Restaurants in the Country. Based on Yelp reviews by the public-at-large, Uptown Eats is known for their fresh coffee, baked goods and creative comfort food like the to-die-for fried green tomato and thick cut bacon grilled sandwich with jalapeno pimento cheese, arugula and honey (pictured here.) So popular has the tiny café become, they will be expanding next door soon (hurray!) into the former space of MIZE Gallery. The menu includes vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options. Uptowneatsstpete.com

All good things come to an end sometime. Sad to report our favorite ‘cue restaurant and tiki bar, Dr. BBQ, has closed. The owners sold the property, with its killer location just across from Tropicana Field.

Join us at one of our Laugh and Learn Cooking events...

Set to open in late February was the trendy rooftop cocktail bar and lounge Cane & Barrel on top of the new AC Hotel, Ascent St. Pete at 110 2nd Street N. Advance media buzz shows visions of a luxury “Old World Havana nights” courtyard oasis complete with both indoor and outdoor bars that will feature signature rum craft cocktails. Keep updated on Facebook.

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

400 Beach Drive Suite 173 St Pete, FL 33701 727-290-9893

info@achefhat.com

Sign up for your next cooking class by visiting our calendar of events achefhat.com/schedule

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DATE EVENT DESCRIPTION TIME

Sunday, March 12 Indian Cooking Using a Tagine 4-6pm

Friday, March 17 An Irish St. Patrick’s Night of Cooking 6-8pm

Ivan Jeanblanc Head Chef

• Two hour “Culinary Entertainment” all inclusive cooking sessions

• Learn new recipes, prepare exciting dishes and enjoy them with friends, new and old

• Includes 4 or 5 menu items, wine, champagne and beer.

• Event themes include “Around the World” International cuisine nights, Wine & Spice Food Pairing, Appetizers, Brunch and many more

• Host private events (birthdays, anniversaries, team building)

• Shop our spices, gift sets and gourmet items from around the world

Sunday, March 31 A Chili Extravaganza Cooking Event 6-8pm

Sunday, April 2 Easter Brunch Preview Cooking Event 4-6pm

Friday, April 7 Around the World Cooking 6-8pm

Friday, April 14 New England Seafood Cooking Event 6-8pm

Sunday, April 16 Asian Cooking with a Wok 4-6pm

Friday, April 21 Wine and Spice Pairing Cooking Event 6-8pm

Sunday, April 23 Around the World Cooking 4-6pm

Friday, April 28 Indian & Middle Eastern Tagine Cooking 6-8pm

Sunday, April 30 Florida Seafood Cooking Event 4-6pm

Beach Drive’s Allelo Cuisine, Comfort Won’t Disappoint

When the former Annata and Alto Mare waterfront bistros on Beach Drive closed in late 2021, tears and fears spread throughout downtown. The trendy yet casual cafes were beloved happy hour haunts for locals who loved to sip wine and nibble charcuterie boards. Those hankies have been discarded, however, with the welcome addition of Allelo in the combined space.

New owners Shawn and Jeanna Damkoehler, who also own 400 Beach Seafood & Tap House, have created a space as welcoming as ever, with plenty of outdoor seating, an intimate bar and lounge area, and cozy dining room indoor. Partnering with Volet Hospitality Group, the Damkoehler’s concept for a casual yet classy Mediterranean-influenced restaurant focusing on small plates and sharing has drawn rave reviews from both sides of the Bay since opening in late September.

Two recent visits — one for dinner and one for Saturday brunch — affirmed the buzz, from the modern Mediterranean ambiance to the

exceptional cuisine and finely tuned waitstaff. The beautiful granite bar and its Audubon-esque mural of endangered Florida birds is the centerpiece of the indoor dining area. Here patrons can relax with a comfortable seat in front of the gently lit mural, painted by local artist Annette Gloomis, or grab a table in the lounge.

I don’t know about you, but I find the comfort level of seating at a restaurant has significance in my overall enjoyment of a dining experience. Maybe I’m getting of a certain age but let’s face it, hard wood or metal seats without cushioning are a major turnoff for those of us who wish to seat our derrieres down for a couple hours and a comfortable meal.

Allelo wins 5 stars for comfortable seating, with cushioned barstools in addition to plush banquettes and table seating both indoors and out. The atmosphere inside is light and airy, with arched openings that separate the bar/lounge area from the dining room. Attractive granite tabletops, dark wood and more avian art provide a sense of serenity, although a new-age music background was a tad too loud during one visit. Despite the chic atmosphere, diners are mostly in jeans and casual attire making Allelo an easy place for a drop-in sip or bite. On both visits, our waitstaff was knowledgeable about the menu, friendly and efficient.

The talented culinary team is led by Ingi Sigurdsson who honed his talent at Michelin-starred Alinea in Chicago, along with executive sous chef Tim Lentsch. Sommelier Michelle Richards is ever at the ready to answer questions about the menu of craft cocktails and the curated wine selection which leans heavily on varieties from Spain, Italy, Greece, France and Portugal.

The evening we dined mid-week, we went all in on shared plates. Yes, the charcuterie plate is a delightful teaser, but just as easy to share is the tender Octopus, Meatballs in a zesty pomodoro sauce, Clams bathed in sherry, garlic and parsley, and a lovely Beet Salad teamed with chevre and quinoa. The Beef Tartare, served with warm crusty bread, was the best my dining companion said she ever ate (and she is a tartare aficionado), perfectly prepared with herbs and spices it simply melted in the mouth.

Not into sharing? Entrees range from Striploin Steak and Baked Chicken to Pork Chops and Rack of Lamb. All are served with Mediterranean accompaniments such as quinoa or cucumber dill yogurt. Pasta entrees include Cappelletti with Spinach and Wild Mushroom, Scampi with Squid Ink Linguine and Broccolini, Lamb Bolognese, Agnolotti with Fennel, Ricotta and Leek Cream. A raw bar features East Coast Oysters, Shrimp Cocktail, and for a larger party, order the Seafood Tower for a taste of everything from the sea.

Too full to even think about dessert, we opted for Allelo’s famous house-made limoncello as our final course and we were glad we did. The delicious lemony liqueur has become so popular that it can sell out on busy nights. Don’t miss it.

Indulging in a leisurely brunch is one of my favorite pastimes, and Allelo is a winner. Served on Saturdays only from 11:30 am to 2:30 pm, the brunch menu items can be purchased individually, or you can opt for the Family Style Brunch ($34 per person) which provides a selection of nine dishes on shared plates. Choose from delightful patio seating to watch the Saturday afternoon action on Beach Drive, or dine in. We sat inside and opted for the sharable brunch.

This indulgent spread brought forth a selection of dips (hummus, labneh, babganoush), deviled eggs, cucumber and feta salad, cardamom French toast (to die for and my No. 1 choice for a single plate), olive oil pancakes, meatballs, thick cut bacon slices in maple brown sugar, and a spectacular dish called Shakshuka featuring poached eggs in a spicy red sauce.

Other brunch offerings include oysters, a caviar service ($145) complete with accoutrements, tortilla Espanola and various versions of Ricotta Toast with smoked salmon, roasted eggplant and mushrooms or apricot and honey. A cheese and charcuterie plate ($32) is highly sharable, as well.

Another specialty drink seems to be quite popular with brunchers and came highly recommended. Mia & Lucia is a refreshing margarita-like concoction made with blanco tequila, lime, and cucumber and a dash of black pepper. While available by the glass, tables order it by the pitcher ($44) which is more of a glass bulbous bowl and spout. Staff will do the pouring, as it’s a grand gesture that targets the thin stream of goodness into your glass. (Don’t try this at home.) It all makes for an entertaining brunch and one that won’t disappoint.

Welcome, Allelo, we’ll be back.

Allelo is located at 300 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg. Dinner only 5–10 pm Tuesday-Saturday, Saturday Brunch 1:30 am to 2:30 pm; closed Sunday and Monday. Allelostpete.com

Add Portugal to your list of wine adventures this year

BY KAITLYN DUKE

Portugal has long been one of Western Europe’s most underrated countries, but now the secret is out. It has just as much to offer tourists as neighboring France and Spain but at a fraction of the price. Visitors are delighted by stunning architecture, world heritage sites, and endless outdoor activities ranging from mild to wild. The biggest surprise, perhaps, is the variety and quality of Portuguese wine with price tags that seem too good to be true.

Beyond the world-renowned fortified wines of Port and Madeira, Portugal produces a wide range of dry red and white wines (tinto and branco, respectively) in a variety of styles. Organic practices have been the norm for centuries. Most of its 250+ indigenous grape varieties don’t grow anywhere else in the world. They may be unrecognizable on a wine label, but that is part of what makes exploring them exciting. Most Portuguese wines are blends, so the region will indicate the style more so than the grape varieties.

The Douro Valley in the north is known for Port, a fortified sweet wine made from a blend of up to 30 native grape varieties, including Touriga Nacional, Tinta Roriz, Tinto Cão, and Touriga Franca. Those same grapes also produce dry red wines that are powerful and age worthy. While many bottles cost under $15, serious collectors can find world class bottles for around $50. The bold, tannic wines of the Douro Valley beautifully complement a juicy Ribeye, and will delight Napa and Bordeaux enthusiasts.

West of the Douro Valley is Minho, which borders the Atlantic Ocean. Minho produces light-bodied white and rosé (rosado) wines called Vinho Verde. Made from a blend of native grapes, Vinho Verde

wines are crisp, fruity, zesty, and often have a slight spritz. These patio pounders are perfect for boat days, beach days, or hanging by the pool. Keep an eye out for single-varietal wines, like Loureiro and Alvarinho (aka Albariño), which pair perfectly with salads and seafood appetizers. Sauvignon blanc and pinot grigio lovers should look for these wines.

Further south is Alentejo, stretching from the Atlantic Ocean to the Spanish border. This vast region is sparsely populated, but it plays a crucial role in agriculture. In fact, Alentejo is home to most of the world’s cork forests and produces more than half of the world’s cork supply.

Numerous progressive wineries have focused on modernizing winemaking techniques over the last decade or so. White wines range in style from medium-bodied and refreshing to full-bodied and rich. Reds are medium- to full-bodied with generous fruit flavors and are usually blends, although single-varietal wines like Aragonez and Alicante Bouschet are also produced. Those who enjoy the fruity, spicy reds and aromatic, textured whites of France’s Rhône Valley will love exploring the wines of Alentejo.

Suggestions from Portugal: Castello d’Alba Douro Tinto ($13); Van Zellers Douro Tinto ($30); Costa do Sol Vinho Verde ($10); Foral Vinho Verde Alvarinho ($19); Herdade do Rocim Alentejo Alicante Bouschet ($25).

Kaitlyn Duke is a certified sommelier and a sales consultant for XXI Wine & Spirits.

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Designing

Dreams

Students turn surreal works into wearable art in Dali/PCCA

Gibbs High program

BY RO MARTINEZ

PHOTOS BY BETH REYNOLDS @BETHPHOTOREYNOLDS

Chau Huynh

Ten area student fashion designers are living the dream.

Inspired by the surreal paintings of Salvador Dali, the students debuted their work in December, then were chosen to display it on mannequins at Neiman Marcus in Tampa’s International Plaza in January. In February, they walked the runway wearing their creations at a benefit, Fashion Design at the Dali, that raised funds for the Dali Museum’s education programs.

In its sixth year, the 14-week Fashion Design at the Dali program offers Pinellas and Hillsborough County students the chance to “learn valuable skills, form friendships, and collaborate to create their own wearable art, while learning about the fundamentals of design,” according to Sumaya Ayad, school programs manager at the Dali Museum.

She pointed out that Dali collaborated with famous fashion designers Elsa Schiaparelli and Coco Chanel during his lifetime.

In December, the Dali’s teen designers gathered in St. Petersburg at Pinellas County Center for the Arts (PCCA)/Gibbs High School’s Grande Theatre for a fashion cavalcade that would rival any New York Fashion Week show. The theme of the Gibbs’ wearable art show was “The Shape of Dreams” which correlated to the Dali exhibit of the same name. Inspired by Dali’s paintings and those of several other artists, the students manifested their dreams using a variety of materials in innovative ways. Ten students at that show were invited to display their work at Neiman Marcus.

The students’ wearable art is more sculpture and avant-garde design than streetwear. The clothing takes your breath away.

Program is born

The Dali’s teen fashion designer program began in 2017 in conjunction with the Dalí and Schiaparelli exhibit. “My predecessor and program

Continued on next page

Lucy Haura readies herself for the runway.

Left to right: Layla Marani attached sand to the back and focused on different visual elements from her Dalí painting, Lucy Haura, Connor Totten.

initiator, Denisse DeLeon, approached Trish Donnelly who was head of costume design at PCCA/Gibbs, about hosting a one-time fashion program for high school students,” says Ayad. “Her background and current teaching position made her an obvious instructor for the program, and she worked with administration at PCCA to lend us their workshop each Sunday during the fall semester and their theater for the fashion show.”

The process for selecting the young designers is via an application process that includes recommendations from teachers and mentors, portfolio images from their work related to fashion, and a writing sample. No more than 30 students each year are selected. The program runs for almost the entirety of the fall semester — 14 weeks with a break for Thanksgiving.

“We meet each Sunday from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.,” says Ayad. “Each

session has a topic, such as patterns and measurements, basic construction, or runway practice.”

Learning through experts

Most of the classes take place at Gibbs High School in the PCCA Costume Workshop, but there are field trips to stores such as Neiman Marcus, one of the program sponsors, for the students to hear from those working in the fashion industry. Several guest speakers each year are invited to speak about their work and help the students build their ideas and skills.

This year, each of the program judges spoke to the students about their work. They included Eugenie Bondurant, an actress and international model who showed them how to walk the runway; Dana Wood, a fashion writer who helped the students with their artistic statements; Kari LaRocco, a wealth manager who runs her

The 10 winning students and 2 of their models stand at the end of the runway for a final round of applause.

Students create their Dali-inspired designs in the Costume Workshop at PCCA/Gibbs High School in St. Petersburg, FL.

own branch of Ameriprise and spoke to the students about leveraging their skills and relationships to reach new heights; and Neiman Marcus sales manager and fashion designer Donald Tucker who spoke about branding.

The classes finish with the fashion show at the Gibbs Grande Theatre, and from there, the winning student designs are honored in a special exhibition at Neiman Marcus until the Dali benefit show in February. The students reunite for this fundraiser, in which they walk the runway in their own designs at Neiman Marcus Tampa Bay, along with professional models wearing new looks of the season.

With experience as a professional costume designer, Trish Donnelly is perfectly suited to lead the costume design and construction class at PCCA/ Gibbs High School. Her collaboration with the Dali “works together so that the Dali research can be done at the museum and construction can be completed in the state-of-the-art costume shop that is my classroom,” she explained.

The students are freshmen, sophomores, juniors, and seniors from schools across Hillsborough and Pinellas counties who

come with a variety of skill levels.

“Some students need basic construction instruction, some need material resource ideas and sources, some need to be able to express themselves and build on their original concepts through discussion, and some just need another set of skilled eyes to offer constructive suggestions to elevate their advanced skills,” says Donnelly. “ I would describe my job as a mentor who instructs, encourages, facilitates, and elevates.

“Every year I think the designs, concepts, and interpretations couldn’t possibly be more impressive and creative than the year before, and every year I am proved wrong.”

To learn more about the submission process and apply for next year’s program, visit thedali.org/programs/ student-programs/

Ro Martinez is a creative writer and fine art artist. Her work can be seen at The Woodfield Fine Art Gallery in St. Petersburg. Her solo show: “Delineations — The Op Art of Ro Martinez,” runs from June 6 to July 1 at the gallery. romartinezart.com @romartinezart

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Daring to Dream Can Lead to Fulfillment

BY MEGAN SIMONS

I recently went to the Market, as I do several times every year. I always love the inspiring and exciting atmosphere of new approaching season in fashion, and outlook on life. New refreshing designs, new ideas in accessories, new vibes, new energy, and old friends. People in fashion business I know now for years, dear relationships I was fortunate to establish over many horizon-widening and motivating conversations.

Today I would like to tell you a story about a grandma that my dear friend Dana shared with me. Her name was Hazel.

Hazel was a remarkable woman, beautiful, resilient and independent. She eventually married the love of her life and established a life that was quite comfortable. But Hazel couldn’t just settle down and be a homemaker. Her drive for more in life was pushing her out of her comfort zone, her desire for greater achievements was unstoppable.

She also possessed undeniable, exceptional passion for fashion. She understood that life is easier to conquer if she was dressed for it. Circumstances took her to many places in the world; she lived in Texas, New Orleans, New York City, Beverly Hills, and abroad. From a young girl without many experiences, she managed to be the leader of the famous pink Miramar Hotel in Barcelona during WWII, and later the head buyer and stylist for Bullocks Wilshire in Los Angeles, dressing many celebrities, just to mention a few of her adventures.

Dana loved and adored his stylish grandmother and looked up to her, he wanted to be involved with whatever activities she

was pursuing, and she loved him back. She took him shopping, he was part of ladies lunches, some travels and more.

But every time they were about to go out, he came running to her with excitement looking for approval. Hazel checked out his hand-picked attire and lovingly said – “Darling, you look lovely, but if you want to go with me you need to change.” Dana said he gladly run back and changed what he was wearing ... sometimes three times, but he was so eager to get Hazel’s approval, that the eventual success was all the glory he needed.

Hazel eventually aged, as life happens, and in her 90s settled in an assisted living facility. Dana would visit her as often as he could, and every time he walked in, he saw the same scenario. Hazel would get up in the morning, she would be dressed up impeccably, with her makeup on. He would ask occasionally – “Grandma, what are you getting ready for?” And Hazel would always have the same answer –“I don’t know yet dear, but something wonderful.”

I’m sure many of you have relatives with similar outlook on life and positive approach to every day. Cherish them, learn from them, carry their legacy to the next generations, and when you do that, the world will be a better place.

I wish Hazel could be a member of every family, someone to guide to goodness and greatness, inspire the best in us, and if you don’t have Hazel, why don’t you be Hazel.

Megan Simons is owner of Pippa Pelure fashion boutique in downtown St. Petersburg, FL.

Harbor Isle Stunner on Park-like Grounds

Impeccable renovation and elegant design aesthetic are the hallmarks of this beautifully appointed 3-bedroom, 2 bath home nestled on a rare-to-find, oversized corner lot (16,039 sq/ft) in the highly desired waterfront community of Harbor Isle. This stunning home affords the quintessential combination of a Florida indoor/ outdoor living and entertaining lifestyle with exceptional green spaces, and landscaping designed to showcase the tranquility and serenity of the park-like grounds.

The light-filled home is luxuriously finished throughout the interior. Renowned kitchen designer AlliKriste created the spectacular eat-in chef’s kitchen featuring custom-designed solid cherry wood cabinetry, Sub-Zero refrigerator, top-of-the-line stainless steel Wolf appliances including five-burner gas cooktop, gleaming granite countertops, handcrafted slate backsplash, and John Boos butcher block island. A convenient breakfast bar is perfect for brewing morning lattes, and the tranquil primary bedroom retreat includes a custom-designed walk-in closet and spa-like en-suite bath. Two additional bedrooms round off the split floor plan both with customdesigned closet systems and a lovely, updated guest bath.

Architectural highlights of this well-designed home include superior block construction, wood-burning fireplace with custom-milled mantel and brick surround, oak wood floors, gorgeous customdesigned millwork and a soothing fountain.

This home is centrally located near golf courses, boat launches, parks and walking trails, beaches and downtown St. Petersburg. For more information, please call the Caryn Rightmyer Group with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty at 727.409.9696.

This stunning home features superior craftsmanship and luxurious finishes on a beautifully landscaped, oversized corner lot.

7221 18th St NE || Offered at $875,000

An automated misting pest control system ensures outdoor comfort.

Gleaming Oak wood floors are accented by custom milled woodwork.

The Little - central Theater That Could off

Local actor/director Ward Smith takes a giant leap in a small space

BY CINDY STOVALL

The Off-Central, true to its name, stands off Central Avenue in the bustling Grand Central District, a small gray building on the south side of 1st Avenue, between 22nd and 23rd Streets South. Now in its third year of operation, the former Studio Grand Central is undergoing a branding facelift. “We wanted to have the venue name be consistent with The Off-Central Players, our resident theater company,” says founder and producing artistic director Ward Smith. “It just made sense.”

A creation of local artist Deb Holliday, the freshly painted yellow and white moniker, featuring matching Comedy and Tragedy imagery, perfectly embodies both the locale and the purpose of this little theater that could. New landscaping and gleaming white stones both underscore and beautify the update.

It was the former location of Andi Matheny’s acting school, but when Matheny returned to New York in 2021, the building became available. “I wanted to open a theater and was scouting locations,” explains Smith, “but I never imagined having the opportunity to both find and purchase a space that was so well located and perfectly outfitted with everything we needed to get started.”

The theater, which is a non-profit 501(c3), seats 40 ticket holders, but has a spacious lobby with several bistro tables, and a kitchen for pre-show kibbitzing and a glass of wine or two. “When the time comes, we have some ideas for increasing capacity,” says Smith. “We are also planning multi-use events for the space — comedy shows, private events, and gallery exhibitions are a perfect fit.”

The art gallery lobby is already taking hold. During the December run of Becca McCoy’s one-woman show, “The Year of Extraordinary Travel,” a simultaneous exhibit of McCoy’s travel photography and the artwork of her Leafmore Studios partner, visual artist Justin Groom, was filled the space – and very successfully so.

Getting started

Smith credits his sister Karen Riffe with the partnership he needed to make it all happen. “I’m the art. She’s the business,” he says, smiling. The building was purchased in February of 2021. With Smith’s knowledge of theater and his sister’s confident financial planning, the curtain went up in August. “I didn’t think we could pull that off,” says Smith. “It was Karen’s push, and a very talented team that got us there and we haven’t looked back.”

PHOTO/MARCIA BIGGS

Ward Smith helms the intimate Off-Central Theater, home to the Off-Central Players. He credits his rising success to a family of close colleagues who help manage the venue and produce plays.

Less than two years later, The OffCentral has produced or hosted over 20 productions.

But that is only the beginning of family connections found throughout Off-Central’s operations. Several husband-and-wife teams wear many hats, and are not just performers and playwrights, but double as lighting and set designers, stage managers, marketers and educators. “It’s definitely a family affair,” beams Smith. “I don’t know what I would do without them.”

Ward G. Smith, as his SAG/AFTRA card reads, is an army veteran who has been acting and directing for stage and screen for over 30 years. You may remember him from recurring roles in the TV series “Army Wives” and “Burn Notice,” with guest starring roles in many others. He has appeared in over 50 stage productions nationally and has lent his skills in multiple formats as voiceover talent.

If you need a bit more impressing, Smith has also been a successful stand-up comic, touring with the likes of Adam Sandler, David Spade, and Dennis Miller. Locally, Smith was the lead singer of Bogus Pomp, a Frank Zappa tribute band that performed for many years at the Palladium as a

Halloween tradition.

It’s an impressive resume, and possibly much to sacrifice for the full-time responsibility of running a prolific theater and company. When asked about making that sacrifice and the potential impact on outside acting pursuits, Ward insists, “I have a show biz gig, and this is it.”

A stage family

How does a relatively new theater and resident company log so many quality productions in so short a time period? “Determination and team effort,” says Smith. “We do whatever it takes.” Along with his sister, Smith also credits the OffCentral “family” and the abilities of members like actor Alan Mahoney Jr., husband of oft-appearing actress Debbie Yones, to handle so many needed production details. Mike Horn, husband of education director Katie Calahan, not only starred in a one-man show produced last year, he handles lighting design and props. Smith repeats: “I depend on everyone to have a hand in making productions come to life. It’s amazing what they all do.”

The inaugural production of “Rasheeda Speaking,” the acclaimed play by Joel Drake Johnson, started

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There’s not a bad seat in the house with a 40-seat venue.

it all in August of 2021. And while The Off-Central has staged other such well known and nationally produced works, Ward offers accessibility to get new works seen and possibly produced in a professional theater — works like “Mayday,” the story of the Sunshine Skyway collapse, written by St. Pete Catalyst writer Bill DeYoung, or “The Sister-Mothers of Gulfport” by beloved local playwright Bill Leavengood. “I was so grateful for the opportunity to see my show come to life,” said “The Year of Extraordinary Travel” author and star Becca McCoy.

The next generation

The Off-Central is committed to theater education and productions for young people, as well. Big Break Youth Stage, another nonprofit resident program, is treated with the seriousness and respect

that any resident company could expect. There is a full season of staged productions, the young actors engage in standard rehearsal schedules, tech, and of course, classes and camps.

Education director Katie Calahan, a prolific actor, writer, and director herself, is devoted to the program and to these stars of the future. “I really love the kids,” she says, smiling. “I’m so proud of our young actors, and of what we have been able to do here at The Off-Central. It’s an amazing opportunity for them to be a part of real working theater and to see if it’s something they want to build their futures on.”

“Native Gardens” by Karen Zacarias will be the March offering at The-Off Central – a play whose themes are hotly relevant and thought-provoking. Two couples – one white and one Hispanic — share a property border that, under unusual circumstances,

becomes the central conflict in the plot. The metaphor isn’t exactly subtle, but the humanity shines through.

Featuring veteran performers Smith and Roxanne Faye in two of the four principal leads, it guarantees the quality of a production put up by any larger venue. “We are a professional theater,” boasts Smith. “We pay our actors and have the same ambitions and standards.”

What does Smith hope to accomplish in a broader sense?

“We aren’t here to alienate audiences on any given night by taking hard line social or political stands,” he says thoughtfully. “We want to tell stories with heart, soul, and relevancy – but to do that by exploring the nuance of living – to always invite learning. I believe that’s where we have the most in common.”

On Stage

“Native Gardens” runs March 16-26, Thursday through Sunday only. Big Break Youth Stage presents “Into the Woods, Jr.” April 21-23 and the Summer Camp production of “Fame, Jr.” is June 23-24.

Amazing Home In The Pink Streets

Too often the word SPECTACULAR is over-used in real estate… In the case of this unbelievable home, SPECTACULAR is an understatement! What was once one of St. Petersburg’s secret historic neighborhoods has recently become a focal point for discerning homebuyers. The Pink Streets is known for both its luxury and tranquility making it one of the most desirable areas in our Sunshine City. Beautiful trees and landscaping adorn every inch of this property. The backyard entertaining space is nearly impossible to describe with words. Prepare to be amazed with the saltwater pool, custom deck, pergola lounge, outdoor lighting, and one of the most amazing poolside cabanas you will ever see! The many outside seating and lounging areas provide the ideal private outdoor space for relaxing, grilling, or simply enjoying time with friends and family. You will undoubtedly be the envy of all your event-planning and entertaining friends.

This wonderful home sits on a beautiful large lot that is fully fenced. The luxury vinyl plank floors reflect the natural light that

enters from all areas of this special living space. The Great Room features a very open concept, commercial-grade kitchen with concrete countertops and volume ceilings. You will find custom upgrades and improvements around every corner! The alluring staircase was custom-crafted as was the finish carpentry and trimwork throughout this exceptional home. Notice the immaculate wainscoting, 3-D framed walls, and a very unique whisky cellar! The Pink Streets is conveniently situated in the Southernmost part of St Petersburg, and offers easy access to Tampa, multiple airports, our award-winning Gulf Beaches, vibrant Downtown, the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, and all the excitement of the new developments throughout The Skyway Marina District. Walking distance to a 9.5acre city park that is directly on Tampa Bay. Plenty of room to park your boat, RV, or large trailer. Can you believe this is in Flood Zone X? If you have been searching for AMAZING – here it is. If you have been waiting for the IDEAL OPPORTUNITY – it is now. If you have expectations of an EXCEPTIONAL LOCATION – Your search ends right here in The Pink Streets at 1735 Karleton Place South.

Southern Roots Realty is a local boutique real estate firm with five generations of real estate experience in St. Petersburg and the Tampa Bay area. Our firm specializes in unique, mid century, and historic homes and estates that fit any lifestyle, and help clients put down their roots in our hometown.

Visit our website, www.southernrootsrealty.com

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and learn about our history to learn about how St. Petersburg is special to us!

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With three generations in St. Petersburg, Billy’s family helped build many of our iconic St. Pete landmarks and homes. He became a licensed Realtor® in 2015, and with Billy’s knowledge of the area and his legal degree, he expertly guides buyers to the property of their dreams and through the entire home-buying process. His experience in both the commercial and residential Tampa Bay real estate markets allows him to provide a broad range of white glove real estate services to his clients, while paying homage to his local roots.

Direct: 352-256-3896 billy@southernrootsrealty.com

Design Inspiration

BY BETH ANN DRAKE

Living in paradise means that our living space extends to the outdoors most of the year.

This year’s design trends are focusing on interior looks and styles flowing outdoors with seamless transitions. Whether classic or contemporary, minimalist or maximalist, fusing indoor and outdoor décor to bring the spaces together is a common theme.

The use of natural materials is on the rise, such as plants, stone and wood for a sustainable and organic feel. Bold colors, patterns and textures are coming to the forefront as opposed to the subtle grays of last year and statement lighting like eye-catching chandeliers and pendants are being used to create a focal point in rooms.

The kitchen seems to have a gravitational pull in any home, so

why not make it an oasis for yourself and guests? We talked with Kristin Bobowski, owner of Granite Girl, Queen of Quartz about what’s on the horizon in kitchen and bath design.

“We seem to be getting away from grays. Gold and black are becoming popular accent colors, but light and bright is still the trend,” she said. Her advice to homeowners beginning a project? “Pick what you love. Not what the neighbor loves or what’s on HGTV. They are good places to start for ideas but make sure you keep your own taste in mind.”

Many homeowners become overwhelmed with where to start a project. Kristin’s advice is “Start with the thing you care about most. If it’s counters then pick them first and build your design around your counter choice. If it’s floors then pick the floors and build from there.”

Elegant Outdoor Living

This year’s design trends focus on interior looks and styles that flow outdoors.

Design for durability

Sustainable design has become a priority for many who want to incorporate more eco-friendly materials in their living space. Stephanie Stegman of Elegant Outdoor Living is seeing a market that is mixing different materials to create a more organic look. Twisted rope with powder coated aluminum in outdoor furnishing frames or ceramic with teak table tops for dining or accent tables. Sustainably made furniture has not only long lasting durability, but warranty coverage as well.

“We are seeing a high demand for modular seating collections that can include up to 12 pieces to combine and create unlimited seating configurations for a customer’s needs and space,” Stegman says. Accent tables to accompany outdoor seating in styles beyond the traditional patio furniture “set” are also on the rise. “In the past, end tables and coffee tables were always part of the set and matched the sofa and chairs. Now people are purchasing tables with more style and design. It’s a simple and cost effective way to update your existing furniture and patio.”

Her advice for choosing outdoor furniture for the Florida sun and salt air is to invest in quality outdoor materials that won’t rust and always check your fabric. “Make sure the cushions are made using a solution dyed acrylic fabric,” she warns. “High performance outdoor and tested fabric brands include Sunbrella, Outdura, Bliss and Sunbelievable.”

Storage Solutions

Interior designing can pose challenges as well, depending upon the space you have to work with. Multi-functional spaces have gained popularity such as home offices that can also be used as guest rooms. Minimalism is also on the rise, which focuses on simple uncluttered spaces being appreciated for their calming atmosphere.

Tony Montanez of New Closets Today sees a lot of demand for storage solutions. “Older homes and condos tend to have small spaces that need to be maximized and newer homes may have more space, but often come with basic wire shelves.” Most of his clients choose a white shaker or modern style because it’s clean, bright and timeless. These styles are kept in stock so they can deliver and install quickly.

Because every project is different, Montanez encourages homeowners to keep an open mind. “Sometimes people think they have to have everything figured out. We design spaces all the time and can offer solutions and design options that they may not have considered.”

Decorating or redecorating all or part of your home can be overwhelming. Hiring a professional designer to guide and inspire you through the process can make a daunting task more enjoyable. Annabelle’s Fine Furniture and Interior Design lead designer sees the main challenge homeowners face as “envisioning the look for

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Granite Girl

their home and making decisions. There are so many options and Annabelle’s goal is to educate our clients so that they can make the best decision for their home, style and budget.”

Mood boards and 3D renderings help clients envision their space as best as possible.

Quality home furnishings and timeless design continues to trend at Annabelle’s. Products made with organic and sustainably sourced materials are popular along with anything with natural fibers and textures for layering. Recycled rugs are also a hot item as they are pet friendly and indestructible.

Their team recently worked with a client in Bellaire who wanted their waterfront home to incorporate both their love of transitional styles and modern coastal to complement the views. After working with the client every step of the way they achieved the look the family wanted — elegant and exquisite.

Annabelle’s Fine Furniture and Interior Design

www.annabellesfurniture.com

New Closet Today, www.newclosettoday.com

Elegant Outdoor Living, www.elegantoutdoors.com

Granite Girl, www.thegranitegirl.com

New

Today

Annabelle’s Fine Furniture and Interior Design

Peripheral neuropathy is the pain, discomfort and numbness caused by nerve damage of the peripheral nervous system. Jean, a patient at AAIM explained that daily tasks like opening doors or taking her dog for a walk was extremely painful. “How can you live for the next 30 years when you don’t even want to get out of bed to do simple things?”

If you’re unfortunate enough to be facing the same disheartening prognosis, you’re not sleeping at night because of the burning in your feet. You have difficulty walking, shopping or doing any activity for more than 30 minutes because of the pain. You’re struggling with balance and living in fear that you might fall. Your doctor told you to ‘just live with the pain’ and you’re taking medications that aren’t working or have uncomfortable side effects.

Dr. Gibbons, founder of Achieve Acupuncture & Integrative Medicine in St. Petersburg, is using the time tested science of Acupuncture and other integrative techniques that assists in increasing blood flow and expediting recovery and healing to treat this debilitating disease.

Dr. Gibbons is now accepting new patients. Dr. Gibbons and her staff specialize in treating chronic pain, complicated neurological conditions and autoimmune diseases. For more information about Dr. Gibbons and what she treats, visit www.achieveacuim.com

Ready to schedule? Call (727) 272-3587 for a comprehensive consultation today.

“Now when I go to bed at night I don’t have those shooting pains. I don’t have that burning sensation. I don’t have pain coming up my legs.”

- Jean

Green Thumb’s Up

St. Petersburg’s annual Arbor Day celebration, the Green Thumb Festival, returns on April 29-30 at Walter Fuller Park. More than 120 garden, plant and flower vendors and exhibitors will offer everything under the sun from flowers, herbs and trees to gardening tools and yard art. Look for free pine seedlings; plant, soil and water diagnostics; children’s crafts; education programs; a flower show by Garden Club of St. Petersburg; butterfly tent; a children’s plant fair; environmental resources tent; exhibits by local groups and organizations and more. Hours are 9 am to 4 pm both days, Walter Fuller Park is at 7891 26th Ave. N in St. Petersburg. Go to stspeteparksrec. org/greenthumb for more information or call (727) 893-7441.

Old Northeast Garden Tour

Mark your calendar now to attend the inaugural Old Northeast Art in the Garden Tour set for Saturday, April 15. Attendees will stroll through 10 distinctive Old Northeast gardens, from a lush tropical oasis to a Japaneseinspired bonsai garden. Each garden will also feature at least one local artist exhibiting their work. Musical entertainment will serenade tour attendees. Tickets will go on sale March 15 at honna.org

Thrift Shopper Alert

Have you ever wanted to go on a treasure hunt at vintage and thrift stores? Star Trolley will make your dreams come true on their new Vintage Thrifters Tour, where you’ll ride in style on the Speakeasy Bus enjoying an all-day experience of shopping, complete with complimentary drinks including lunch, and visits to some of our area’s best resale locations.

The Speakeasy Bus is a luxury living room on wheels, with plenty of space for relaxing and stashing your booty. The tour departs every other Sunday at 9 am from the North Shore Park in downtown St. Petersburg. Groups welcome; cost is $69 per person. For more information and tickets, visit star-trolley.com/tours

BY MARCIA BIGGS

The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art gets down to its roots in The Stories They Tell: Indigenous Art and Photography of Edward S. Curtis. Examining the cultures of diverse Native American tribes, the exhibit pairs photographic images with art objects depicted in the photos such as pottery and basketry, masks and textiles.

The Stories They Tell relies on the early 20th century work of Edward Curtis, who produced one of the most extensive photographic projects in history. Believing that Native American culture would soon disappear, in 1896 Curtis began his life-defining project, The North American Indian, a project which spanned four decades, consisted of 40,000 photographs and 20 volumes of text. His goal was to capture the everyday life of Native American tribes and by the time he completed his ambitious project he had recorded more than 80 North American Indian nations.

Inspired by a gift of Curtis vintage photographs to the museum by local philanthropists Robb and Susan Hough, exhibit curator Caitlin Pendola and co-curator Jason Wyatt, Collections Manager at the James Museum, have meticulously teamed the photogravures with some 90 Native-made objects from the permanent collection, private lenders, and seven museums from across the United States.

The exhibit is presented in three galleries – textiles of the Northwest Coast, pottery and basketry of the Southwest, and basketry of California. Visitors are greeted by a colorful patterned entryway leading into the Northwest Coast gallery. Here are images of an elaborately costumed wedding party coming ashore on a boat circa 1914. They hold highly decorated paddles; a replica is displayed above it. Another photo shows two dancers performing a masked ceremony; it’s accompanied by authentic ceremonial robes and

vividly painted wood “transformation masks” used in the Northeast. “I really worked hard to bring what you see in the prints to life,” explains Pendola. “The objects give context to the photos.”

The other galleries feature photos depicting the lives of Native tribes across California and the Southwest; each is presented in its own space with photos and related art objects. The Yokuts, for example, were masters of woven basketry; the Santa Clara excelled in pottery.

Some photos simply show a collection of baskets, or scenes from a village or portraits. The faces tell stories. Female Shaman of the Hupa (1923) has eyes that search the depths of the lens. Hupa Mother and Child (1923) rest at the base of a tree, the baby snuggled into a woven baby carrier.

Edwards is not without controversy. It is widely known that many of his images were staged or posed rather than being historically accurate. Ethical finger-pointing and discussion have followed his work since it first appeared, debating the value of authentic documentation versus photography as art.

Nevertheless, the images are realistic depictions of the tribes, a powerful record of faces, customs, and culture. “It should be noted that all the tribes included in the exhibit are still in existence,” Pendola added. “That was our intention.”

The Stories They Tell: Indigenous Art and Photography of Edward S. Curtis continues through May 14.

Right, a Native American chief or shaman wears a loon headdress. /Photo by Edward S. Curtis (1914) Below, the entrance to the gallery featuring photos and textiles from the Northwestern tribes. / Photos Marcia Biggs

Spanish Castle

This grand home created by acclaimed builder, Samuel Schooley, in 1920 is located on nearly an acre in Old Pasadena. Ivied walls encompass the stately gardens, pool and fountain courtyards, 3 car garage, and gated parking offering the most discriminating privacy. Natural light flows abundantly through the home with timeless architectural details thoughtfully weaved into the modern day amenities expected in a luxury home. Entertain with ease from the tasting room to the formal dining room and onto the billiards room with antique wet bar. The kitchen, a masterpiece of design is a chef’s dream where each feature was a blend of both function and architectural consistency. The statement piece, an 1880’s draper’s table from a silk factory in Lyon France, serves as the island. The expansive master suite has its own private tea garden and direct access to the fountain courtyard. Archways, beam ceilings, fireplaces, marble and limestone floors and hand painted tile accents are just a few of the many delightful appointments of this alluring home.

For more information call The Richardson Group - Smith & Associates 727-224-6331

The Richardson Group REALTORS®

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From St. Petersburg … to St. Petersburg

BY NATALIE VELEZ

St. Petersburg, Florida, is a city that holds a special place in the hearts of many. Those of us who are not originally from here, have unique stories which connect us with this city. Mine, for example, was a love story.

I am a native of St. Petersburg, Russia, who fell in love with a man from here and moved to St. Petersburg, Florida. I traded the Gulf of Finland for the Gulf of Mexico and cold winters for what the locals here call “winter.” The fact that our city was named after St. Petersburg, Russia, by Peter Demens after winning a coin toss, makes it even more meaningful to me. Demens spent his youth in the original St. Petersburg.

In this vibrant city, I have found my new home, raised my children, and had amazing opportunities in education and art. For 14 years, St. Petersburg has opened its heart to me, and it has become our love story.

This story, however, is not about me. It’s about the city itself and how it has welcomed people from all over who seek refuge, a better life for their children, or the freedom to express their opinions

without fear of persecution. The Sulimov family’s story is just one example of many in this country. Some of our grandparents and great-grandparents left their homes across the ocean to find a new life here, reminding us of the immigrant roots that built this nation. It reminds us of our heritage and the importance of preserving our stories for future generations.

Artem works in internet marketing and his wife, Alina, is a textile artist who creates beautiful woven pieces using traditional knot techniques. They raised their two children in St. Petersburg, Russia, where they were active members of their church and enjoyed exploring the city’s stunning architecture and rich history.

What makes the Sulimov family’s story special is that this new way of immigration takes us back to political regimes which force the smartest and most successful people to change their home, because they don’t want to conform to the ideology of the regimes they disagree with. These people are willing to leave their comfortable homes, careers, family and friends to express their freedom of speech and beliefs.

A young family emigrates from Russia to find a new home that is filled with kindness.

The Sulimov family visits the Bombax tree outside of the Museum of Fine Arts in downtown St. Petersburg./Photos provided by Sulimov family

Life in Russia

This is a story about an ordinary family, who at the end of last year went on an adventure which changed their lives and brought them from one St. Petersburg to another St. Petersburg. Their lives and businesses were thriving. Sunday mornings, they attended the Evangelical Church, Petra, which was named after Saint Peter. They took an active part in ministry, being involved in preaching Sunday school for kids and adults. They enjoyed walking around the center of St. Petersburg, admiring its stunning architecture and canals, squares and drawbridges.

At first glance, both St. Petersburgs are very different. St. Petersburg, Russia, is a city of granite and canals, fog and rain; and St. Petersburg, Florida, is a city of sun, beautiful white beaches, and palm trees. But besides the name, there are things that unite them. First, their people and pursuit of freedom and happiness. Second, the art community –both have a lot of museums, theaters, various exhibitions and events, and rich cultural life. “As a textile artist who works with colorful threads and weaves stories and fairy tales using an unusual mixed medium, I am very inspired by the cultural scene and beauty of this city,” Alina told me recently.

Before the pandemic started, they traveled a lot around the world with their kids. They enjoyed visiting Italy, France and Sweden, and the United States was on their dream list. Alina remembers: “Once we dreamed of visiting the United States, although we could not imagine in what circumstances it would happen. It was our family’s dream!”

When the Russian government started the war against Ukraine, they were forced to pack their whole lives in suitcases and leave Russia, perhaps forever. They didn’t support the attack and were strongly advocating for peace. At that point, they hadn’t known their dream of coming to America would come true under these strange circumstances. They loved their city, however, when mobilization began, it was time to leave. Their departure is also a form of protest: It is now impossible to express one’s disagreement with what is happening in Russia without being persecuted.

In search of freedom

Their journey from St. Petersburg to St. Petersburg took almost three months. During this time, the family managed to visit sunny Kyrgyzstan, where they lived for more than a month near the national mountain reserve, and every morning a herd of horses grazed near their house.

Then they flew to Brazil, where they spent almost a week in a secluded home of a fellow Christian in the jungle, near Sao Paolo. After Brazil, they ended up first in Cancun, where they had to spend a month. Reaching the US-Mexican border, the family applied for political asylum through the Department of Homeland Security and were granted temporary residency.

The Sulimov’s story is one of bravery and determination, as they left behind their comfortable life and successful careers in Russia, to seek refuge and freedom in the United States.

Above, the family in Brazil on their journey to the United States. Below, at home in St. Petersburg, Russia.

SPL LIVING

They were invited to Florida by friends living in St. Pete. “We got to St. Petersburg on Christmas Eve and our love and appreciation for the way people in St. Pete opened their hearts and homes to us was beyond our wildest imagination,” the Sulimovs say. Today, the family is living on their savings and receiving assistance from charitable organizations to submit all the documents needed to get established in the United States. Artem is taking driving classes, and both Artem and Alina are waiting for their work permits. The couple is wisely using their savings and looking at career opportunities.

They are hungrily trying to learn English as soon as possible. They can communicate well, but they often rely on Google Translate and other language apps. Their kids are like little sponges, picking up new words every day and learning more at school with their ESL teachers.

Alina shared with me that one day on the way to school, when she was crossing the road with the children, the crossing-guard, whom they see every morning, suddenly greeted her in Russian “dobroe unto” she said, which means “good morning.” The lady told Alina that every time she sees a family from another country on her route, she tries to greet them in their native tongue. It made Alina’s day and the walk to school more joyful. In preparing for this story, Artem said, “It seems to us that very kind and sympathetic people live in America, always ready to help those who find themselves in a difficult situation. For example, we were supported by the congregation of Our Savior

Lutheran Church in St. Pete, we were able to get groceries at one of the local food banks and medical assistance at the Evara health center. My wife and I were so impressed with the love and caring support of a wonderful charitable organization, Clothes to Kids, who helped us get our children ready for school. Immigrant life is not easy, but thanks to these caring people, it has become easier.”

In a conversation with Executive Director Jennifer Jacobs of Clothes to Kids, where I brought the family to get the kids school uniforms (they just started school), she described St. Pete as “…a city which found the keys to the Art of Generosity through acts of kindness and dedication to causes.”

The first part of the journey for the Sulimov family is over; their new journey in America has just begun. I want to finish their story with Artem’s words: “It seems to me that here in St. Petersburg, Florida, free people know how to love life, appreciate art and care for their neighbors. We are very glad and thankful to this city, which is becoming a new home for us. It is an incredible feeling to be a part of St. Pete life.”

About the author: Natalie Velez is a local art curator and writer. She serves as a Docent Specialist at the Museum of Fine Art, runs an art business (Bella Unica Art Gallery) and is studying towards her PhD in art philosophy and aesthetics at the Institute for Doctoral Studies in the Visual Arts.

Sundial Gets a Facelift

Nearly a year after purchasing the Sundial retail and dining center in the heart of downtown, Ally Capital Group (ACG), a Tampabased real estate investment firm, and Paradise Ventures, a St. Petersburg-based real estate firm, have unveiled the first look at the reimagined mixed-use development.

Designed by Behar and Peteranecz, a St. Petersburgbased architecture firm, the reimagined Sundial will feature multimillion dollars in improvements designed to revitalize the once upscale retail destination into a modern mixed-use urban destination, a press release stated.

“We have a unique opportunity to create a centralized gathering and shopping space that can grow with our city,” said Mike Connor, President and CEO of Paradise Ventures. “A space that complements the development landscape of St. Petersburg and that is a long term investment in the city.”

Set to be a centralized gathering place for those living, working

or visiting downtown St. Petersburg, site plan improvements include an updated courtyard with a large outdoor bar and plenty of communal green space for programming and to sit and enjoy food and drink. “Placemaking is important, and the new Sundial is designed to be an extension of the community,” said Andrew Wright, Chief Executive Officer of Ally Capital Group. “A place that enhances the city socially, economically and culturally. A space where celebrations are had, where business is done and where friends run into each other.”

The update will result in the removal of both the iconic two-story sundial and the six life-size bronze dolphins that have called the plaza’s courtyard home for the past 10 years. The sculptures were commissioned in 2012 by then-owner Bill Edwards as the centerpiece for Sundial, his vision for a revitalized Bay Walk.

Construction is set to begin later this spring with completion targeted for the end of the year. The center has several large vacancies, including the spaces formerly occupied by FarmTable Kitchen and Locale Market. They vacated to make room for a planned food hall which never came to fruition

Diana has been a licensed Realtor since 2012 & is consistently a TOP producing agent in all of South Pinellas County every year. She puts forth every effort to make sure your buying or selling process is a seamless one and does this with care and compassion. An expert at spotting possible hurdles and removing them along the way, she gets her clients to the closing table with ease. Nearly 90% of her business is based on repeat clients and referrals because of the exceptional service provided.

Call or text Diana today and let her get to work for you!

“Diana Geegan is a knowledgeable, persistent, and helpful agent when selling my home. Diana and I collaborated to determine the listing price, with Diana actually nudging me up. She brought to bear excellent resources to prepare and post the listing. Once we had a contract, she engaged resources to help me deal with the myriad issues facing a seller with a very short closing deadline. Diana was professional throughout, giving me unbiased information that helped me make the various decisions required. She was always positive and cheerful. She demonstrated a strong sense of character throughout the process.”

D

Annual Pet Walk Brings Families, Pets Together

BY ERIC KEATON

Pet Tales

For more than 80 years, SPCA Tampa Bay, a for-all shelter and pet hospital, has supported a healthy community and animal well-being. The annual Pet Walk has brought together families and their canine companions to celebrate and spread what the SPCA calls “humanimality,” the almost indescribable joy that animals bring to our lives, for 32 years.

This year’s Pet Walk is right around the corner, set for Saturday, April 15, at not one but two locations: North Straub Park along St. Petersburg’s beautiful waterfront and the OCC Roadhouse and Museum in Clearwater.

What can you do to help? Sign up … it’s free! Form a team with friends and family or join an existing team to help make a difference in the lives of homeless pets and wildlife in SPCA Tampa Bay’s care. The community’s support at Pet Walk helps SPCA Tampa Bay continue to offer a variety of services to Pinellas County.

Just a few examples:

Adoptions program: SPCA Tampa Bay cares for more than 8,000 animals admitted to the shelter each year. Most of them like dogs, cats and other critters are striving to find their forever homes. Adoption counselors focus heavily on matchmaking, which helps families

hardships, which can help keep families together. SPCA Tampa Bay understands that financial issues often lead a family to have to make the difficult decision to surrender a pet.

Pet Walk is presented by Hill’s Pet Nutrition, Jabil and sponsored by a number of other companies, and

North Straub Park, 400 Bayshore Dr., St. Petersburg, and OCC Roadhouse and Museum, 10575 49th St. N, Clearwater.

Day of registration opens at 8:30 a.m. and activities run from 8:30 a.m. until noon. The walk at both locations starts at 10 a.m. Start your team today at . The sign-up fee is free. Participants who raise $25 or more receive a customized Pet Walk T-Shirt and participants who raise $100 or more win prizes for you

WHY IS IT IMPORTANT TO REGULARLY CLEAN CARPETS?

Think of your carpet as the biggest filter in your home or office space. it is recommended to have your carpets cleaned on a regular basis to help rid your space of free radicals that hide deep down in the fiber of your carpet: dust, dirt, allergens, bacteria, pet and human hair and so much more.

SPIN-A-RAMA RIDE

FOR

HOPE

An annual relay-style cycling event benefiting three of the YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg’s Community Health Programs, which provide evidence-based support to individuals with specific health needs.

Together, we make a difference

Thank you to everyone who supported this year’s YMCA Spin-A-Rama, including our sponsors, donors and dedicated riders who joined us on February 25, 2023. Together with our community, we raised thousands of dollars in support of cancer recovery, diabetes prevention and support for Parkinson’s Disease.

We are truly grateful for your support, which will directly impact the lives of people who depend on the Y’s vital health programs.

Learn more about this program at stpeteymca.org/spinarama.

THANK YOU TO ALL OF OUR SPONSORS FOR MAKING THIS EVENT POSSIBLE.

YMCA DIABETES PREVENTION PROGRAM

TOTAL PARKINSON’S PROGRAM

LIVESTRONG® AT THE YMCA CANCER PROGRAM

Grand Waterfront Estate on Willadel Drive

Intercoastal15,000+ SF grand waterfront estate on Willadel Drive in Belleair with large open water views of Sand Key, Clearwater Harbor, and the Gulf of Mexico! With an unforgettable pictureperfect appeal, this remarkable brick mansion boasts 1.82 acres of fabulously layered landscape that transitions brilliantly to the waterfront and brand new seawall. Private marina with a dock and two boat slips. Massive circular drive with two automatic security gates welcomes you to a phenomenal estate with towering 21 foot high ceilings, wonderful open spaces, magnificent and complex detailed woodworking and sweeping panoramic water views.

140 Willadel Drive, Belleair

Offered at $11,450,000

REDEFINING OUTDOOR LIVING

BY DOUG KING

Outdoor living remains a main focal point for homeowners. Pools, whether new or remodeled, and lanais (an extension of the roof to create a covered area in the backyard) remain the most soughtafter outdoor projects.

Pools are probably the number one item being added or modified to a back yard. And not just any pool but ones with an integrated hot tub, perhaps with a water fall feature. Sun Shelfs that are 6 inches deep, are very popular and may include underwater lights and umbrellas where one can relax on a “water recliner” in the shade with a cool beverage.

Some are incorporating Florida plants and foliage as a nice decorative end piece. For homes that already have a pool, many are upgrading the decking around it, maybe re-surfacing the pool itself or adding an elevated hot tub or other water feature to the existing pool.

Another way to increase outdoor living space is to build a lanai roof that connects to and blends in with the roof of the main house. This enables easy passage from the interior of the main house to the pool, to the outdoor kitchen and to other backyard living features while being protected from the sun and rain. Two columns typically support the roof structure and these may be decorated with stone, glass tile or simply stuccoed to match the house. The ceilings are usually vaulted and covered with stained T&G boards.

Another nice option for ceiling finishes are the PVC products that come with options such as ship-lap, beadboard or simple flat panels. PVC products are very durable and are either paintable or come pre-stained from the factory. And finally, a ceiling fan along with dimmable recessed LED lighting makes for a comfortable and cozy evening outside on the patio.

Outdoor kitchens have long been perceived to be a luxury item but now, many households need to cook larger meals for more people. Most kitchens are designed to be a one-cook kitchen with little room to expand. An outdoor kitchen allows the prep and cooking space to be extended and as a by-product, helps to spread your guests about since we all like to gather in the kitchen!

The outdoor kitchen might be positioned just outside of the indoor kitchen to help with coordinating food and beverage delivery. Or it may be a stand-alone kitchen that includes a sink, undercounter fridge and grill with cabinetry for storage. Cabinetry materials range from stainless steel to acrylic and PVC blends to natural woods such as cypress. Countertops are usually a quartz or granite and it is highly advisable to have a roof, such as a lanai roof or a tiki hut style roof to protect the kitchen components. Besides, who wants to grill under a blazing sun?

In addition to pools, kitchens and covered patios, other very popular outdoor features include gas fire pits, torch lighting or other gas appliances that provide not just warmth on those cool evenings, but offer a warm glow to the backyard and make for great conversation pieces. If you do not have natural gas service to your street, no need to fret, a propane gas tank can be easily buried on your property to supply numerous fire features that may be positioned around your backyard. And if you so desire, you could install a gas or solar pool heater too.

The National Association of the Remodeling Industry is a good source to find companies that can help with outdoor living which may be found at www.naritb.org

Doug King is founder and president of King Contracting and former national president of National Association of the Remodeling Industry.

Mustang Mach-E: The Pony Goes Electric

MUSTANG MACH-E (GT, AWD)

Tires: 245/40R20

Wheelbase: 117.5 inches

Length: 186.7 inches

Width: 74.1 inches

Height: 63.5 inches

Suspension: MacPherson strut front, multilink rear

Steering: electric assist

Fuel economy: 82 MPGe (88 city, 75 highway)

Weight: 4,920 pounds

Base price: $59,900

Price as tested: $69,800 Web site: www.ford.com

BY NITISH S. RELE

Who would have thought nearly 60 years ago the birth of Mustang would create a sports coupe, convertible, endless special editions, of course, and … electric SUV? Heck, yah. Why not?

The Mustang Mach-E is equipped with an 88 kWh useable lithium-ion battery pack that will go 260 miles on a full charge. Two dual electric motors boast 480 horsepower and 634 poundsfeet of torque while mated to a single-speed transmission. We test drove the GT Performance model, which can take off from 0 to 60 in a mere 3.5 seconds. Charging the slick SUV is quick with the 150-kW DC fast charger, taking just 45 minutes for 80 percent juice, or a 240-volt outlet at home in about 10 hours. The one-pedal driving (slowing down to a complete halt by taking foot off the gas) is a personal choice, we think.

Sure, it’s a Mustang but with a difference.

A black grille with the centered and illuminated pony emblem is flanked by LED headlights with sequential tri-bar turn signal tail lamps and GT insignia taking up the rear. Also prominent are red brake calipers, black sideview mirror caps, and rear spoiler.

Step into the spacious cabin and the mammoth 15.5-inch center touch screen for infotainment controls will draw attention. As will the 10.2-inch digital screen for the driver. A two-tier center console enables hiding personal stuff out of sight.

The GT/pony scruff plate is a nice touch, pleasing to the eye. The rotary shifter dial is easy to change gears. The frunk drainable size is 4.7 cubic feet, decent to store cold beverages for tailgating. So is space OK behind the rear seat at 29.7 cubic feet. Other niceties at no extra cost are dual auto a/c, 60/40 fold rear seat, aluminum applique on instrument cluster, handsfree lift gate, eight-way power heated front seats, push-button door release, three-spoke tilt/telescopic steering column and a 10-speaker Bang & Olufsen sound system.

Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, side curtain airbag, driver knee airbag, electronic stability and Advance trac controls, pre-collision assist with auto emergency brakes, frontal collision mitigation, adaptive cruise control, blind spot monitor with cross-traffic alert and lane-keep, hill start and active park assists, keyless entry/start, rearview camera and auto high-beam headlamps, tire pressure monitoring system and daytime running lights.

The all-electric Mustang Mach-E is an incredible vehicle with laudable battery reach, tremendous power and an interior that is as high-tech as any other EV on the market. With this SUV, Ford has put all its competitors on notice. Electric or otherwise, the pony logo looks fine on them all!

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

Huge thanks to our attendees, vendors and sponsors who made this event so incredible!

Thank you to some of our vendors who helped make our event so memorable:

event!

This Dad Has Vision to Build a Better St. Petersburg

It started rather routinely. Two North Shore Elementary dads whose kids sit in the same classroom made a connection. Eventually, the one dad realized they held a shared interest in the other dad’s architectural efforts on a new building project: an experiential hotel going up on Central Avenue.

For Rays president Brian Auld, it made sense to invite the other dad, Everald Colas, to showcase his designs. After all, the Moxy, a Marriott hotel brand, would soon rise in the shadow of the Tropicana Field. So, when Colas and the Moxy developers strolled into the Rays offices, it seemed significant but not momentous.

Until Rays owner Stu Sternberg walked into the room. Auld, who has served as a Rays executive for nearly 18 years, does not necessarily find the presence of Sternberg to be intimidating. For Colas, however, Sternberg’s entry into the presentation amplified his approach. After all, Sternberg and the Rays were vying to lead one of the most transformational redevelopments in St. Petersburg history.

“I didn’t expect him to come in,” Colas said. “I wasn’t intimidated, but I thought to myself, it’s the Rays owner.”

But Colas didn’t flinch. The man met the moment, calmly explaining the narrative details in the hotel’s design. Sternberg, who Colas says has a good design eye, took notice. So did Auld.

“He did such a great job of taking complex themes and making them digestible,” Auld said. “He’s such a great presenter. I started to realize it would make sense to have him involved in our RFP.”

So, Colas, who founded the Storyn Studio for Architecture firm in 2018, now finds himself as one of three architects joining the team’s plans to partner with the city and remake the 86 acres surrounding Tropicana Field. As the son of Haitian

immigrants, he’s humbled, but he’s not awed. The man met the moment because the man always envisioned the moment. Not the moment to meet Sternberg – but the moment to make a difference.

“This is the work we said we would always do if I had a firm,” said Colas. “I visited the National African American History Museum in Washington, D.C., in 2019 with a group of black architects and planners. (Noted black architect) Sharon Sutton said, “Never be enticed by individual success, but in everything you do, remember the community.”

Those words crystalize Colas’ approach to this $6 billion restorative redevelopment of the Historic Gas Plant District. He spent part of his childhood in Portau-Prince, Haiti, and he vividly recalls how his mother would invite vendors into their courtyard to sell their goods.

The memory of her providing that economic opportunity inspires his work today. He could talk about the 320,000 square feet of retail, the 700-room hotel or the 1.4 million square feet of office space. Colas, however, speaks with enthusiasm about affordable and workforce housing ownership (1,459 units), the economic opportunities the project will generate for minority-owned, womenowned, and small businesses, the inclusion of the new Dr. Carter G. Woodson AfricanAmerican History Museum, and the $17.5 million educational investment in the design.

“As a practice, we think of design as a tool for social change,” Colas said.

He thinks the design of the Historic Gas Plant project can serve as a central connecting point, figuratively stitching together the unique neighborhoods of St. Petersburg, a city he’s come to love.

Both University of Florida graduates, Colas and his wife Lauren, had moved to New York City after he earned a master’s degrees in architecture and a master’s in science in architectural pedagogy. But when their daughter was born, they longed to

be closer to Lauren’s family in Gainesville and his family in South Florida. They visited downtown Tampa but eventually made their way across the bridge and immediately grew fond of the downtown urban corridor and the walkability.

When he returned to New York, where he worked as a senior architect for the prestigious Bjarke Ingels Group (BIG), he spotted a Visit St.PetersburgClearwater poster while riding the L-Train. He couldn’t ignore the call.

Now he feels called to help lead the historic effort. While Mayor Ken Welch chose the Rays proposal in his state of the city address on Jan. 30, much remains to be done to bring the visionary project to fruition. Details must be solidified, approvals must be earned. For Colas, however, the moment is now. And he’s ready.

“You’re designing a neighborhood,” Colas said as he sat in his Central Avenue building. “It’s a neighborhood that will honor the history of the district, and a neighborhood that will steward economic mobility.

“It’s a generational project with our city partners that’s going to be amazing.”

Everald Colas, far left, oversees a construction project with his team from Storyn Studio for Architecture in St. Petersburg, FL.

St. Petersburg

Seafood

400 Beach Seafood and Taphouse

Locally sourced coastal cuisine on the downtown waterfront. From seafood to steaks, salads and appetizers, a favorite for Sunday brunch and outdoor dining. 400 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 896-2400; 400beachseafood.com $$$

Trophy Fish - Drink Like a Fish is the moniker here, so be prepared for a casual nautical atmosphere, lively crowd and fresh local fish and seafood that changes daily. Dinner only; opens at noon on Saturdays and Sundays. 2060 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 258-7883; trophyfishstpete.com $$

Teak - With a spectacular view of the downtown skyline, Teak, at the tip of the St. Pete Pier, offers elevated casual dining for lunch and dinner. Florida-inspired cuisine runs the gamut from Cubans and paella to pan roasted grouper with citrus risotto and ginger guava BBQ short ribs. 800 2nd Ave. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 513-8325; teakstpete.com $$$

DINING GUIDE

tacos to entrees like Cedar Plank Salmon and Banana Leaf Snapper. 610 2nd Ave NE, (727) 857-8118; 8790 Bay Pines Blvd; St. Petersburg; docfords.com $$$

Sea Salt - Upscale, urban and known for its raw bar and impeccably fresh seafood, this is the place to impress while enjoying a sunset over the downtown skyline. Located at Sundial, the airy and sophisticated eatery specializes in seasonal and organic ingredients, an extensive wine collection and craft cocktails. 183 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 873-7964; seasaltstpete. com $$$$

Island Grille & Raw Bar – Expansive waterfront dining focusing on fresh seafood, steaks, pasta, chicken, sandwiches and raw bar. Island Grille attracts a fun crowd of families, boaters and local sun-seekers who gravitate here for the food, tropical drinks and massive outdoor patio. 210 Madonna Blvd, Tierra Verde; (727) 767-0020; islandrawbar.com $$$

RumFish Grill – The under-the-sea atmosphere is as memorable as the sustainably sourced seafood. Enjoy Florida snapper ceviche before moving on to your main course of Floribbean blackened grouper. No matter what you order, you’ll be mesmerized by the 33,500-gallon aquarium in the main dining room, which is home to local rescued marine life. 6000 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727) 329-1428 rumfishgrill.com $$$

The Hurricane Seafood Restaurant –

The landmark Hurricane on Passe-a-Grille Beach has weathered a few storms, but still stands as a seafood mecca for tourists, groups and families. The fresh grouper sandwich and view from the rooftop bar are legendary. 809 Gulf Way, St. Pete Beach (727) 360-9558 thehurricane.com $$

American/Fine

Parkshore Grill - Top-notch Beach Drive dining from fresh seafood to steaks, pasta and salads. Lunch, dinner and brunch served Saturdays and Sunday until 3 pm. Chef Tyson Grant is committed to serving local and sustainable meats and seafood and locally grown organic produce. 300 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 896-9463; parkshoregrill.com $$$

Rococo Steak - Fine dining in a sophisticated steakhouse with Executive Chef Jordan Buendia offering a chic twist on classic fare. Outstanding wine selection and service 655 2nd Ave. S., St. Petersburg (727) 822-0999; rococosteak.com $$$$

Brick & Mortar - Rustic-chic dining in an intimate atmosphere, local foodies gravitate here for healthy American fare that changes seasonally. Dinner only. 539 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 822-6540 $$$

Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse - Upscale steakhouse overlooking the Sundial courtyard in the heart of downtown, Ruth’s Chris is a respected chain with a dedicated following who come for dependable steaks, chops and seafood specialties. 131 2nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 821-4139; ruthschris.com $$$

Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille - Shorts and flip-flops are welcome at this popular waterfront eatery on the St. Pete Pier and a new location in the Jungle Terrace district on Boca Ciega Bay. Seafood with a Caribbean flair includes crab cakes and fish

MadFish – Look for the refurbished train dining car on Gulf Boulevard in St. Pete Beach and you’ve found MadFish, known for fresh seafood including oysters, mussels, Chilean Sea Bass, group, salmon and lobster tail. The casual diner is open for dinner only.

5200 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727) 360-9200 madfishonline.com $$$

Urban Stillhouse - Bourbon lovers will be in heaven and everyone else will be in awe at this rustic yet sophisticated distillery in the Warehouse Arts District featuring Chef Kenny Tufo’s renowned American modern cuisine. Dinner only Thursday through Saturday, brunch Sunday 11 to 4; reservations a must. . 2232 5th Ave. S., St. Petersburg (727) 440-8040; theurbanstillhouse.com $$$$

The Library - Tucked away in Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital with a distinguished English library setting, The Library is just the ticket for a quiet lunch or dinner or even a romantic night out. The creative menu is overflowing with healthy options such as Osso Bucco Risotto and Squid Ink Pasta with Blackened Shrimp. 600 5th St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 369-9969; thelibrarystpete.com $$$

Birch & Vine - Located in Beach Drive’s Birchwood Hotel, this fine dining spot is helmed by Executive Chef Lee Aquino, known for his unique and globally inspired dishes featuring seasonal, organic and locally sourced foods. 340 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 896-1080; thebirchwood.com/birchandvine $$$

Sauvignon Wine Locker & American Trattoria - Charming winecentric dining with a top-notch curated menu of seafood, pasta and meats in a lively block of Central Avenue downtown. 241 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 827-7896; sauvignonstpete.com $$$

Grace - Upscale yet laid-back, this intimate dining spot offers modern American and Mediterranean cuisine, wine, and cocktails in the heart of Passe-A-Grille. Stop in for happy hour from 4 to 6 pm or treat yourself to a curated dining menu that runs the gamut from seafood and salads to pasta and steak. 120 8th Ave., St. Pete Beach (727) 317-4770 gracestpete.com $$$

The Mill - A locals and tourists favorite for American style cuisine with Southern influence. Lively atmosphere, indoor and outdoor dining on a bustling stretch of Central Ave. Excellent craft cocktails and the home of the “Fonzworth Bentley,” a $100 Wagyu beef burger. 200 Central Ave Unit 100, St. Petersburg (727) 317-3930; themillrestaurants.com $$

The Dewey at Berkeley Beach Club

- Sophisticated yet casual dining in Pass-AGrille with a curated menu of reimagined beach cuisine, outstanding wine and craft cocktails. Downstairs is the main dining area; but for the ultimate sunset views head to the rooftop bar for an expansive oyster menu and selection of appetizers. 109 8th Avenue, St. Pete Beach (727) 228-1000; berkeleybeachclub.com $$$$

Castile Restaurant - Hotel Zamora’s elegant restaurant stylishly prepares a curated menu of New American cuisine including tapas, Spanish and Mediterranean specialties, steak and seafood. Select from indoor or outdoor seating with a view of the intracoastal; lunch and dinner.

3701 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727) 4568660 $$$

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

American/Casual

Ford’s Garage - Pull into this garage to find a fun 1920’s service station (don’t miss a stop in the restrooms) with a great selection of prime burgers, chicken sandwiches, salads, mac n cheese dishes, and craft beers. Indoor or outdoor dining.

200 1st Ave. S., St. Petersburg (727) 295-3673; fordsgarageusa.com $$

Stillwaters - Casual tavern and late-night hotspot on Beach Drive offers a variety of classic American fare from steak and shrimp to burgers and chicken; known for a selection of sausages made in-house.

224 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 350-1019; stillwaterstavern.com $$

Dr. BBQ - Don’t be surprised if grilling champ and TV food celebrity Ray Lampe (Dr. BBQ) stops by to say hello. His modern American ‘que is some of the best in town, with imaginative twists to housesmoked meats, awesome Southern desserts and finger-lickin’ sauces and sides.

1101 1st St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 443-7227; drbbqs.com $$

Social Roost - Aptly named for its inviting casual ambiance, the Roost specializes in globally inspired chicken dishes and craft cocktails. Everything is fresh and made from scratch, from chicken samosas to the Peruvian Chicken and Chicken Tangine. 150 1st Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 202-6113; eatatsocialroost.com $$$

Datz - Hearty and even sinful comfort foods from loaded burgers and fried chicken to pancakes and nachos. Leave your diet at home for the Nashville Chicken Doughnut. Lively and casual indoor and outdoor dining and drinking. 180 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 202-1182; datztampa.com/stpete $$

Isabelle’s at the Historic Peninsula InnNamed after the inn’s friendly resident ghost, charming Isabelle’s embodies classic Old Florida/Southern ambiance and cuisine. Specialties include Shrimp & Grits and Salmon Florentine. Ask for a seat on the covered verandah or in the lushly landscaped patio. Sunday Brunch is 10 am to 3 pm. 2937 Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL (727) 346-9800 isabellesgulfport.com $$

Asian/Fusion

Hawkers - Asian street food kicked up a notch with craft cocktails and a young vibe at a popular Grand Central hotspot. Small plates and bowls are perfect for sharing. 1235 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 521-7235; eathawkers.com $$

Good Fortune - Trendy dining and highoctane night spot with top-notch AsianFusion cuisine and cocktails, Good Fortune replaces the former Ichicoro Ane below the Station House. Small sharable plates and bowls, an extensive sushi bar and a late night menu that brings out the bao combine for an adventurous evening out. 260 1st Avenue S. St. Petersburg (727) 287-3881; goodfortunestpete.com $$

Buya Ramen - Locals favorite for authentic Japanese tapas. Ramen bowls come with meat or soy-based broths, with crispy duck, braised short rib, pork belly or grilled chicken. Seaweed salad, bao buns and vegetable gyoza are starters. 911 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 202-7010; buyarestaurants.com $$

The Lemon Grass - Immense Asian tapas menu with sushi, rolls, Thai dishes, fried rice, noodles and much more. Popular for carryout via online ordering.

310 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 894-1111; lemongrasstapas.com $-$$

Ethnic/Glob al

Lingr - Highly imaginative Nordic and Asian-inspired menu is reflective of Chef Jeffrey Jew’s heritage. The new eatery is making waves for fresh sustainable seafood with a contemporary flair. Dinner only. 400 6th Street S., St. Petersburg (727) 471-6120; lingrrestaurant.com $$$

Cassis - Combining traditional French and American influences for brunch, lunch and dinner, this European-style café is a favorite people-watching spot at sidewalk tables along Beach Drive. Carry-out French pastries and gourmet coffee and tea from the bakery. 170 Beach Dr., St. Petersburg (727) 827-2927, cassisstpete.com $$$

Left Bank Bistro - Charming setting in the Crescent Lake community, Left Bank offers accessible French-style fare indoors or outdoors. A great late-night stop for dessert and coffee; the intimate bar presents jazz on Thursday evenings; brunch on weekends. 1225 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N., St. Petersburg; (727) 256-1691$$$

Baba - It’s hard to find more authentic Mediterranean cuisine than at this indooroutdoor casual dining spot in the heart of Kenwood. Be sure to visit the bakery for some goodies to take home. 2701 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 954-3406; eatatbaba.com $$

Alesia - Fresh French and Vietnamese cuisine in a contemporary setting near the beaches. Salads, spring rolls and banh mi, pho bowls, curry and noodle dishes all lovingly made with fresh ingredients. 7204 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 345-9701; alesiarestaurant.com $$

La V - Healthy Vietnamese fusion café featuring a variety of entrees, salads, noodle bowls and stir frys. Some of the best pho in town, and a broad menu of boba tea. Wines and dessert make this a great place for lunch or dinner. 441 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 820-3500; lavfusion.com $$

Chief’s Creole Café - Downhome Cajun and Creole favorites in a family-run café range from gumbo and jambalaya to red beans and rice, shrimp and grits and etouffee. 901 22nd St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 498-8979; chiefscreole.com $$

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

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

Red Mesa Cantina - Longtime fave for fans of fresh Mexican cuisine in a hip urban setting, come here to sit in the courtyard with a margarita or sangria and indulge in tacos, salads, enchiladas, quesadillas and burritos and bowls. 128 3rd St. S., St. Petersburg (855) 265-0812; redmesacantina.com $$

Renzo’s - Argentinian steakhouse with extensive menu of Latin American charcuterie and tapas, grilled meats, prime seafood and traditional pasta dishes, wines and desserts. Casual and group friendly, indoor and outdoor dining. 104 2nd St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 851-9983 $$$

Red Mesa - Not to be confused with the Cantina, the original Red Mesa offers fresh Mexican fare with influences of South and Central America, the Caribbean and beyond. Entrees include Filet Mignon Chimichurri and Ginger Crusted Salmon. 4912 4th St. N., St. Petersburg (727) 527-8728 $$$

Fado - Authentic Portuguese cuisine and wines heavily leaning toward seafood, meats

and sausages in a modern setting. Love octopus? This is the place for you. 435 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg (727) 346-5389; fadofl.com $$$

Studio Public House - Fun and funky dining in an old gas station-turnedrecording studio-turned neighborhood English/American pub. Creative sandwiches, flatbreads, vegan and veggie, but you can’t beat the Madras Balti Curry and Dragonfire Vindaloo. 2950 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 873-6992; thestudiopublichouse.com

$-$$

The Pearl - Moving recently to Gulfport from its longtime location on Treasure Island, the Mediterranean/Moroccan fine dining restaurant with chef/owner Karim Chiadmi at the helm offers a wide variety from steaks and seafood, pastas, veal and lamb. Dinner only from Tuesday through Saturday. 5802 28th Avenue S., Gulfport (727) 360-9151; thepearlfinedining.com $$$

Allelo - Sophisticated MediterraneanAegean theme restaurant specializes in seafood, pastas, and sharable appetizer plates and charcuterie boards. An extensive wine list and curated cocktails offer a perfect sip at the elegant marble bar inside or on the patio facing the downtown waterfront. 300 Beach Drive NE, St. Petersburg; (727) 851-9582 allelostpete.com $$$$

Italian

BellaBrava - Authentic Italian cuisine with urban flair, the New World trattoria is lively and fun with beloved pasta dishes, woodstone oven pizza and great people watching from the sidewalk patio. 204 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg (727) 895-5515; bellabrava.com $$$

Gratzzi Ristorante - Classic Italian cuisine in a warm, friendly environment. Choose from steak and seafood to traditional Italian favorites like Pork Ossobuco and Veal Saltimbocca. Known for their Cavatelli Bada Bing, pasta prepared tableside in a wheel of parmesan cheese. Dinner only. 211 2nd St. S., St. Petersburg (727) 623-9037; gratzzigrille.com $$$

Beau & Mo’s Italian Eating HouseAlthough considered a Chicago-style steakhouse, this family run dining spot has

consistently won accolades for traditional Italian specialties like Linguini and Clams and Chicken Marsala. Classy yet casual, a lively atmosphere perfect for groups and families. Dinner only. 2924 5th Ave.N., St. Petersburg (727) 771-3690 $$$

Healthy/Fusion

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

Love Food Central - This small neighborhood café serves only vegan and gluten-free sandwiches, soups, salads and the amazing Awesome Burger (beet and black bean patty with an awesome sauce) that will inspire you to eat healthy more often. 2057 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727) 317-2034; lovefoodcentral.com $$

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

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

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

Good Intentions - Creative vegan/ vegetarian eatery combines healthful entrees and appetizers with a solid wine list and craft cocktails. Come in for coffee and dessert to knock your socks off; brunch on Saturday and Sunday. 1900 1st Avenue S. St. Petersburg; (727) 280-6068; goodintentionsfl.com $$

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

SPL SCENE

SPL Women in Business / Bula Barua Gallery

A reception honoring the 2023 Women in Business featured in St. Pete Life’s January/February issue was held Feb. 8 at Bula Barua Gallery in the Warehouse Arts District. Photos by Ed Barry and Bula Barua

Woodson Legends Awards Gala

The Woodson Legends Awards Gala was held February 18 at The Coliseum to honor the success and commitment of leaders in the community. Those receiving honors included Sen. Darryl Rouson, Mayor Ken Welch, St. Pete Police Chief Anthony Holloway, physician Frederic Guerrier, Rev. Watson L. Haynes II (posthumously), Ray Arsenault, and Jon Wilson.

SPL

Heels to Heal Benefit Fashion Show

Heels to Heal held the 10th Annual Fashion Show fundraiser themed “Love is in the Air” on February 3 at Sundial plaza in St. Petersburg with fashions by Jackie Z. This event benefits the Heels to Heal Crisis Counseling Program to help victims of sexual assault and domestic violence.

/Photos by Ernesto Garcia

This exhibition was organized by the Los Angeles County Museum of Art. Auguste Rodin, The Shade, first modelled c. 1880, enlarged c. 1901, this cast 1969 (Musée Rodin 6/12), Bronze, Los Angeles County Museum of Art, Gift of B. Gerald Cantor Art Foundation, photo © Museum Associates/LACMA

To Life: Reflections Of Courage / Florida Holocaust Museum

The Florida Holocaust Museum held its annual benefit gala at The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg on February 4, launching their yearlong recognition of the 80th anniversary of the rescue of 7200 Jewish men, women, and children by the Danish people. More than 600 attendees raised more than $900,000, the Museum’s highest-grossing benefit to date. The FHM’s Legacy Award was presented to Steve and Irene Weiss. The FHM presented The People of Denmark with the Loebenberg Humanitarian Award which was accepted by Ambassador Stig Piras, Deputy Chief of Mission.

SPL SCENE

‘A Night To Remember’ Stuart Society 60th Anniversary Gala / MFA

The Stuart Society of the Museum of Fine Arts St. Petersburg held an elegant 1960s theme 60th Anniversary Gala

“A Night to Remember” on February 11 at the museum. A 17-piece orchestra and celebrity impersonators entertained guests as they dined and danced the night away. Gala committee chair was Shari Ellis; Stuart Society President is Dawn Sumner, and President-Elect is Rebecca Malowany.

Bring Your Exterior to Life with Strobel Design Build

With Spring fast approaching, the Tampa Bay Area is looking forward to the most beautiful temperatures of the year. Now is the perfect time to engage Strobel Design Build in an exterior remodel. From porches, to pergolas, to pools, bring your outdoor living to life with elegant and comfortable design.

Not only is Strobel Design Build the most awarded design-build firm in the Tampa Bay Area, Strobel Design Build has been a member of this community for over 40

years and has completed countless projects. Quality craftsmanship and honest client relationships set Strobel Design Build apart from the rest. From kitchens and bathrooms, to major additions and remodels, Strobel Design Build has done it before. Strobel specializes in FEMA/Coastal projects, Universal Design, and Historic Homes. Trust the experts at Strobel Design Build to collaborate with you to accomplish the project of your dreams.

with Build

Quality set Strokitchens and Strobel specializes in and HisDesign Build project of

The beginning of your journey will include a complimentary initial consultation at your home with one of our award-winning design consultants. The Strobel team will collaborate with you to customize a plan for your project that accomplishes your goals and realizes your personal style. From start to finish, you will experience a turnkey, white glove service from the Strobel Design Build team.

The beginning of your journey will include a complimentary initial consultation at your home with one of our award-winning design consultants. The Strobel team will collaborate with you to customize a plan for your project that accomplishes your goals and realizes your personal style. From start to finish, you will experience a turnkey, white glove service from the Strobel Design Build team.

Contact Strobel Design Build at www. StrobelDesignBuild.com/contact-us and submit an inquiry. You will receive correspondence from the Strobel team within 24 hours. Happy New Year! We look forward to working with you.

Contact Strobel Design Build at www. StrobelDesignBuild.com/contact-us and submit an inquiry. You will receive correspondence from the Strobel team within 24 hours. Happy New Year! We look forward to working with you.

Mark Zdrojewski

Design Build President

Mark Zdrojewski Strobel Design Build President

Strobel

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