VA VA VROOM
from the editor
by Kathy Saunders
What’s new in 2025 inside THE FEBRUARY
With this issue, Bay begins publishing every month instead of eight times a year. We can’t wait to expand our coverage.
For starters, we are excited to welcome former Tampa Bay Times book editor Colette Bancroft and arts writer Maggie Duffy to our team. Duffy will help readers navigate our thriving arts scene, and Bancroft will review the newest and bestselling books on the market. In this issue, she profiles local author Lisa Unger’s new thriller, “Close Your Eyes and Count to 10.”
Interested in writing your own story? We asked St. Petersburg author Kerry Kriseman for some tips on how to compose a memoir.
We will continue to share our travel adventures, food finds, home design recommendations and fashion trends.
Our February fashion shoot took place at The Motor Enclave in Tampa, a new hot spot for luxury car enthusiasts. We know you’ll love the clothes - and the cars.
▲ 10 FOOD
A new Salvador Dalí-inspired cookbook offers 55 recipes that capture the flavors of Spain.
18 BOOKS SCENE
Colette Bancroft reviews author Lisa Unger’s latest thriller, “Close Your Eyes and Count to 10.”
ISSUE
▲ 28 AUTOS
The Motor Enclave, a private garage community in Tampa that boasts a 1.72-mile performance track, is a car fanatic’s paradise.
▲ 34 FASHION
The Motor Enclave in Tampa also had the right formula for our February fashion shoot, featuring streetwear, off-road outfits and performance racing gear.
24 ARTS SCENE
From a woman-led gallery to a thrilling play, Maggie Duffy highlights must-see arts experiences in Tampa Bay.
▲ 50 TRAVEL
Portugal’s stunning ceramic tiles wowed writer Amy Scherzer during her recent visit to Lisbon.
58 HOBBIES
Author Kerry Kriseman shares her tips on how to write and publish a compelling memoir.
60 SOCIAL SCENE
A MAGAZINE OF THE TAMPA BAY TIMES
Bay is published 11 times a year by Times Publishing Co. and delivered to Tampa Bay Times subscribers in select neighborhoods in Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties.
FEBRUARY 2025
Copyright 2025. Vol. 18, No. 1
EDITOR KATHY SAUNDERS | ksaunders@tampabay.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR NIKKI LIFE | nlife@tampabay.com
Photographer BRIAN JAMES | brian@brianjamesgallery.com
Copy Editor Erin Feitsma Imaging & Production Brian Baracani
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FOOD
Dine like Dalí
A new Salvador Dalí-inspired cookbook gives fans of the Spanish surrealist an opportunity to enjoy cuisine that captures the essence of the artist himself.
BY MICHELLE STARK
You may not think of St. Petersburg’s Dalí Museum as a place to grab a great bite to eat, but spend just a few minutes in the lobby’s Café Gala, and you’ll realize what a special culinary experience awaits.
With the release of a new cookbook, fans of Salvador Dalí’s surrealist artwork can now get a taste of it in their own kitchens. The museum recently launched “The Dalí Museum Café Gala Cookbook,” a 203-page celebration of Spanish cuisine and art. The volume was curated by Chuck Bandel, the chef at Café Gala, and Dalí Museum director Dr. Hank Hine.
“The Dalí Museum Café Gala Cookbook.” Photo by Chuck Bandel.
The cookbook offers 55 recipes that aim to capture the essence of Dalí and the flavors of Spain. Recipes range from tapas and soups to meaty entrées and exquisite desserts. Bandel’s own photography and lovely watercolor drawings are used throughout the book to illustrate his dishes. Dalí works are also interspersed throughout for a multisensory experience.
There are several recipes from Café Gala’s menu in the book, like the yummy and unique carrot hummus, made with standard ingredients like garbanzo beans but also fun additions like carrot juice. A
hidden gem is the sunflower brittle, a simple recipe that combines sunflower seeds with sugar and salt. It’s the best part of the tasty Spanish farmhouse cheese plate offered at Café Gala. The Catalan mushroom bisque is also deeply flavorful and luxurious.
The cookbook contains recipes for some unique desserts, including some delicious options to top off a special Valentine’s Day meal (see recipe on the following page).
Pérez, Martín Berasategui and Jaume Subirós, and he offers insights from them and other renowned chefs in the book.
To celebrate the cookbook’s launch, the museum is hosting an event series titled “Regions of Spain” that aims to explore the country’s rich culinary traditions. The series started in December 2024 and runs through 2025, highlighting different regions of Spain each time.
The cookbook is available for purchase at The Dalí Museum Store and online for $39.95.
Bandel trained with iconic chefs like Paco
Café Gala chef Chuck Bandel. Photo by Jon Fisher.
Roasted carrot hummus (carrot escabeche). Photo by Chuck Bandel.
RECIPE
Chocolate Truffle Poached Pears
This fruit-forward dessert from “The Dalí Museum Café Gala Cookbook” is luscious and elegant, perfect for a Valentine’s Day treat.
For the poached pears:
6-8 pears
1 bottle cava rosé
3 bottles of water, using the rosé bottle
2½ cups sugar
½ cup honey
1 orange zest, and orange (sliced)
1 lemon zest, and lemon (sliced)
1 star anise
For the truffles:
6 tablespoons sliced almonds
2½ cups chocolate chips
¼ cup apricot jam
½ quart heavy cream
1 shot of espresso
½ tablespoon vanilla bean paste Pinch of sea salt
For the sea salt vanilla bean cream:
½ quart heavy cream
½ cup sugar
½ tablespoon vanilla Pinch sea salt
Cornstarch slurry
For the almond bark:
½ cup sliced almonds
1 cup chocolate chips
■ For the poached pears: Place the following ingredients into a medium-sized saucepan and stir well: cava rosé, water, sugar, honey, zests and fruit and star anise.
Bring to a boil, then lower to a simmer.
While it is simmering, prepare the pears by peeling the skin and removing the core.
Gently place the pears into the poaching liquid and lightly stir. Cover the pot and let simmer until a knife goes in smoothly and can be removed without resistance. Depending on the size of the pear, this can take anywhere from 20 minutes to an hour.
When done, turn off heat and let sit in pot until they become room temperature. Carefully remove and place in a container. Strain liquid and pour over poached pears.
■ For the truffles: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. On a small cookie sheet, add the almonds and toast until golden, around 5-8 minutes. Place into a large bowl, then add the chocolate chips and apricot jam.
In a small saucepan add the heavy cream, espresso, vanilla bean paste and pinch of sea salt. Bring to a simmer, then pour over the chocolate. Let sit for 5 minutes. Then using a whisk, whip the mixture until it’s fully melted and becomes one. Place into a shallow pan and spread out evenly. Place in the refrigerator and let chill overnight.
The following day, use a small scoop around the size of the opening of the cored-out pear. Scoop and then roll out into a ball and stuff the pear. The truffles will last a month in the refrigerator.
■ For the sea salt vanilla bean cream: In a small saucepan add all the ingredients except for the cornstarch slurry. Slowly bring to a simmer; once at a simmer, add the cornstarch slurry and whisk constantly until it starts to thicken. Remove from heat and cool down over a bowl of ice. Store in an airtight container.
■ For the almond bark: Preheat oven to 350 degrees. On a small cookie sheet, add the almonds and toast until golden, around 5-10 minutes. Using a food processor, place the very hot almonds into it, then add the chocolate chips and pulse until the chocolate has melted and the almonds have broken up.
Using a parchment-lined cookie sheet, spread the mixture evenly and thinly. Place another piece of parchment on top of the bark and place into the refrigerator. Let it set overnight. The next day, break off pieces and slice them up to the desired size.
■ For the assembly: Take a poached, truffle-stuffed pear and place into a shallow bowl. Gently warm the sea salt vanilla bean cream (just needs to be warm, not hot) and pour all over the pear. Sprinkle on some of the bark and garnish with fresh berries and a mint leaf if desired.
Photo courtesy of The Dalí Museum.
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by Colette Bancroft
Killer thriller
Hide-and-seek is a classic kids’ game, but in Lisa Unger’s heart-pounding new thriller, “Close Your Eyes and Count to 10,” it’s far from child’s play.
The book’s protagonist, Adele Crane, has been doing too much adulting for the last few years. She thought she had a storybook marriage until her husband, Miller, disappeared, along with millions embezzled from the company he founded. Crane was left to pick up the pieces and figure out how to raise her two kids as a single mom and support all three of them.
Daughter Violet is one of those 17-going-on-40 teens, and she’s making her own way pretty well. But Crane worries about her younger child, Blake, who’s a sweet boy but lives most of his life online, where she’s not always sure what he’s doing.
But it’s Blake who comes up with a plan that could let Crane score a million-dollar prize: She can apply to enter a streaming reality competition called “Extreme
Photo by Brian James.
books scene
Hide-and-Seek.” Crane has helped herself heal with athletic competitions like half-marathons and built an online presence as a health influencer, which might make her a relatable contestant.
Sure enough, that background lands her a spot in the contest, and in short order she’s landing on Falcão Island, a very remote dot in the middle of the Atlantic. Back in the 1980s, investors built a luxury resort there called Enchantment that flopped and is now a crumbling ruin.
That’s where the Extreme Team will stage their contest — if they can hold themselves together long enough. Their founder, leader and inspiration, Maverick Dillan, began his online career as a kid doing skateboard stunts. That blossomed into the reality competitions he produces now, with “Extreme Hide-and-Seek” becoming a monster success.
Its glow was tarnished, though, in the last round when one contestant, a young woman named Chloe Miranda, hid and was never found. Her fate has become the obsession of a legion of true-crime fanatics, many of whom suspect that
FEBRUARY
It’s not always happily ever after. As we celebrate Valentine’s Day this month, here are five excellent books — four novels and a memoir — about how love fares under pressure.
Dillan knows more than he admits.
The pressure of those suspicions and the pain of his lingering injuries from extreme stunts (plus some gnawing secrets he’s trying to keep hidden) combine to keep Dillan on the edge of rage.
His intrepid fiancée, Angeline, is trying to hold the competition, and Dillan, together. His three top employees are lifelong buddies, but there are cracks appearing in those relationships.
And when the team arrives on the island, they discover its guardian, a mysterious old woman named Petra, who tells them they’re in danger: “I’m trying to keep you from hurting yourselves.” She may have unusual powers, and she definitely has a squad of armed guards backing her up.
But her warnings leave Dillan even angrier, as even the contestants can see — Crane; Wild Cody, a former children’s show host with a troubled past; and Malinka Niqui, an accomplished young mountain climber with her own secrets.
Shake all that up, send everybody into a
huge, collapsing complex of buildings and throw in an approaching tropical storm with flooding rains, and anything can happen.
This is the 22nd book by Unger, who lives on one of the Pinellas County beaches. Her carefully crafted psychological thrillers are reliable bestsellers, thanks to her skill at creating engaging, complex characters and her mastery of the killer plot twist.
“Close Your Eyes and Count to 10” does all that and, like many of her recent books, makes effective use of our dependence on our devices. The question is whether they save our lives or become the death of us.
Meet the author
Tombolo Books will host Unger at a launch party for “Close Your Eyes and Count to 10” at 7 p.m. Feb. 24 at Coastal Creative, 2201 First Ave. S., St. Petersburg. Tickets are $35 for one admission and one signed copy of the book or $40 for two admissions and one signed copy. Learn more at tombolobooks.com/ events-book-clubs/events.
“Love in the Time of Cholera” by Gabriel García Márquez
“Fates and Furies” by Lauren Groff
“The Sentence” by Louise Erdrich
“Hamnet” by Maggie O’Farrell
“Knife: Meditations After an Attempted Murder” by Salman Rushdie
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arts scene
by Maggie Duffy
Must-see art experiences
I’ve had my eye on this space for the past year: OXH Gallery in Tampa’s historic Kress building, the artistic heart of Ybor City.
The gallery was founded by Odeta Xheka in late 2023 and opened at Tempus Projects’ independent guest curator space called Drift. In 2024, Xheka moved into a permanent space in the Kress building, where she continues to present exhibitions showcasing women artists. Xheka intentionally only shows art made by women because art history is male-dominated, and women artists get fewer opportunities than men, she said.
OXH Gallery is Xheka’s first gallery. Born and raised in Albania, she moved to Tampa with her husband and children from Brooklyn, New York. She was inspired to open a different kind of gallery than the ones she saw in Tampa — a “house of art” that is more focused on building a community cultural center and a place for contemplation.
“I want the gallery to be that little space, that little home away from home, that when you enter for 15 minutes, 20 minutes, half an hour, you forget who you are as a human being out there in the world, and you allow yourself to get in
touch with your deepest sense of self, your emotions and your feelings, sort of like meditating,” she said.
For her first endeavor as a gallerist, Xheka has been successful in bringing in accomplished women artists from around the world. There have been six distinctive exhibitions since its inception, all in line with Xheka’s aesthetic of rich texture, color and sound.
The opening show, “Manifold,” featured the work of California-based artist Holly Wong, who presented photographs that were a tribute to her mother and a colorful installation of drafting film adorned with colored pencil and graphite, called “Spiral Dance.”
An oversized woven blanket was the centerpiece of “Receptacle,” which featured work from textile artists Adria Arch, Julie Gladstone and Madison Hendry, among others. “Red Gasps” showcased Rima Day’s silk organza and red threaded book sculptures along with
video installations of Venera Kazarova’s mashup of costume design and performance art.
Because Xheka is both an artist and a mother, the subject of motherhood is often explored, as with the recent “Motherhood Mediated” exhibition. Twelve artists, including Xheka, demonstrated the complexities and nuances of being a mother.
Rather than sign artists like many traditional galleries do, Xheka wants to provide them with exposure to museum curators, critics and collectors. While work is for sale online and in the gallery, artists are free to work with other galleries and explore opportunities.
Xheka thinks now is an exciting time to try something unique in Tampa and that in five years, chances are that the population would be even more receptive to her vision. “It will become a cultural venue versus a gallery for just selling art,” she said.
Founder Odeta Xheka opened the OXH Gallery in the Kress building in 2024. The artist and gallerist’s space showcases only women artists. Photo courtesy of Odeta Xheka.
On exhibit at the Tampa Museum of Art
The new year is off to an exciting start, filled with events that are emblematic of our progressive scene. At the Tampa Museum of Art, don’t miss “Suchitra Mattai: Bodies and Souls.” Mattai is Guyanese and her work focuses on her own family’s history as well as Guyana’s Indo-Caribbean community. Themes in this show are migration, motherland and materiality, translated through textile works made of recycled saris, resulting in breathtaking installations. The show runs through April 20.
Opening soon at The Gallery at Creative Pinellas
One of my favorite local artists, Jabari Reed-Diop, aka iBOMS, has a solo exhibition opening Feb. 20 at The Gallery at Creative Pinellas in Largo. “Imagine Nation” is presented in partnership with the Woodson African American Museum of Florida. At 25 years old, iBOMS has documented his life’s journey and transformation with 2D and 3D works. It runs through May 10.
Coming to Jobsite Theater March 12-April 6
In the theater world, I’m looking forward to “The Pillowman” at Jobsite Theater, the Straz Center’s resident theater company in Tampa. The comedy-drama is written by British-Irish playwright Martin McDonagh, who wrote “The Beauty Queen of Leenane,” which Jobsite produced last year (it knocked me out). “The Pillowman” will be directed by artistic director David M. Jenkins. According to Jobsite’s website, the “thriller was one of London’s hottest tickets when it premiered in 2003 with Billy Crudup and again (in 2023) in a revival starring Lily Allen.”
Suchitra Mattai’s “Womb” combines vintage saris and 3D printed figures. It’s on display in “Bodies and Souls” at the Tampa Museum of Art. Photo by Maggie Duffy.
“The Way” by iBOMS is on display in his solo exhibition, “Imagine Nation,” at the Gallery at Creative Pinellas. Courtesy of Creative Pinellas.
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AUTOS
CAR HAVEN
The Motor Enclave, a private garage community in Tampa that boasts a 42,000-square-foot event space and 1.72-mile performance track, is a car fanatic’s paradise.
BY KATHY SAUNDERS
Resort communities are popping up all over Florida, offering amenities from swimming pools to pickleball courts. That same sense of play inspired Brad Oleshansky to design a unique resort specifically for car enthusiasts, complete with luxury garages and a driving track.
Set on 200 acres in Tampa near the intersection of Interstate 4 and Interstate 75, The Motor Enclave offers members driving privileges on its 1.72-mile
performance track, 2-acre vehicle dynamics pad and 100-acre off-road experience.
Car enthusiasts fill the garages with their vehicles; the owner of a race team has a championship car suspended from the ceiling of his 10-unit garage.
“One of the garages looks like a luxury condominium,” said Emma Collard, marketing manager. The unit, owned by a local real estate executive, includes a full kitchen, a bar and two living rooms. It also has, like artwork, a white 1965 Shelby
While owners are not permitted by law to live in the garages, said marketing team lead Carolina Ribble, they are able to entertain in the spaces. One owner recently hosted 60 people for Thanksgiving dinner in his garage.
Some units are designed as man caves or workspaces, while other owners purchased the units to keep their collectible automobiles safe from hurricanes and flooding. (The property was not impacted by the 2024 storms.)
Brad Oleshansky is the owner and developer of The Motor Enclave in Hillsborough County. Photo by Brian James.
Cobra parked in the middle.
Others enjoy the camaraderie of being with fellow car enthusiasts.
“People have done car condos before, and people have done racetracks before, but never together, at scale,” said Oleshansky.
The 54-year-old first bought a shuttered General Motors facility in Pontiac, Michigan, in 2012 and opened a similar development, M1 Concourse, but weather prevented year-round use. He had never been to Tampa. A computer data program suggested the area as an ideal spot for the project. He opened the facility in January 2024.
The Motor Enclave has sold close to 300 units to date. The garages, ranging from 657 to 4,400 square feet, start at about $400,000.
Oleshansky has 12 collector cars of his own, including a white Ferrari Testarossa like the one he used to see on “Miami Vice.”
The Motor Enclave offers space for car enthusiasts to practice driving on a speed track and also boasts the Enclave Speed Shop, a space for car repairs and maintenance. Photos courtesy of The Motor Enclave.
“That was my dream car as a kid,” said Oleshansky, who used to help his father build hot rods in the garage of their family home outside of Detroit. Working as a lawyer for rap musicians in Los Angeles in the 1980s, Oleshansky acquired a number of lowrider vehicles for his collection.
The Motor Enclave members want to enjoy their cars in privacy, he said. They appreciate the gated campus with exclusive events. Members have access to an on-site resort pool as well as travel opportunities and other experiences off-property. Private monthly events, like member socials, sessions in the Enclave Race Lab and coaching by professional racing drivers, are also offered.
The public can visit and experience the facility through a variety of unique driving programs, including the opportunity to drive their own cars on the track or
off-road. They can also rent the 42,000-square-foot event space, which can seat 1,200 guests and has on-site catering through its exclusive partner, Puff ’n Stuff.
The property includes 100 acres for off-road driving and the Enclave Speed Shop staffed by technicians with expertise in performance vehicles and race cars. The shop also services everyday vehicles. The Motor Enclave (via its Radical Tampa Bay dealership) is also currently the only dealer in Florida for Radical Motorsport, the popular British race car manufacturer.
Garage owner Marijke White, director of sales at The Residences at 400 Central in St. Petersburg, met Oleshansky a few years ago via the real estate world. She visited the campus and was sold. She invited one of her sons and his wife, Zander and Molly White of Fort Lauder-
dale, to join her in the venture.
“We visited and had so much fun. It was like Disneyland for adults,” she said. “I love the pool area, and I love when they have charity events.”
Marijke White and family keep three cars in the garage: a yellow Porsche Cayman; a platinum-wrapped, anniversary edition Jaguar F-TYPE R; and a black-and-white Abarth 124 Spider with a matte black hood and a wrap with scorpions.
Marijke White, 63, began racing cars as a teenager and loved the thrill of driving. Last year, she won an award from The Motor Enclave for being the female member who spent the most hours on the track.
Through her job and social media accounts, Marijke White shares her love of cars and racing to promote the 2025 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, North America’s premier open-wheel race series that will be held in downtown St. Petersburg from Feb. 28 to March 2.
When The Residences at 400 Central in St. Petersburg are all sold, expected this summer, she hopes to take a few months off and spend more time at the track. She also wants to decorate her garage.
“I have designs already,” said the Amsterdam native. “I want earthy, natural colors and very minimal furnishings. I like Japanese screens, too.”
But mostly, she said, she wants her garage to be cozy. “Being Dutch, we like cozy,” she said.
Oleshansky is already looking at expanding The Motor Enclave concept with similar projects planned for Orlando and Sarasota.
For more information, visit themotorenclave.com.
Marijke White with her Jaguar F-TYPE R at The Motor Enclave. Photo courtesy of Marijke White.
Etro lightweight paisley-print jacket, $1,480. Etro mid-rise fitted paisley-print pants, $600. Theory men’s Cosmos essential T-shirt, $75. Gucci men’s GG2570 41 mm stainless steel watch, $1,470. Neiman Marcus. J Ricc sterling silver bead bracelets, $109 each. Riccardo’s Menswear.
PHOTOS BY BRIAN
STYLING BY TINA
JACKSON FASHION
JAMES
LAPS OF LUXURY
With the 2025 Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg kicking off the IndyCar season this month (Feb. 28 –March 2), The Motor Enclave in Tampa had the right formula for our fashion shoot. In streetwear, off-road outfits and performance racing gear, courtesy of the luxury resort for exotic car enthusiasts, we will be ready for the 1.8-mile street-racing circuit through downtown St. Petersburg. Our photographer warmed up for the Grand Prix on The Motor Enclave’s 200-acre property that includes an event center, a swimming pool, a performance track and hundreds of $400,000-plus, three-story garages where members can store their prized autos and entertain friends. We also made a pit stop to shoot fashions in a unit that has been customized into a luxury condominium. – Kathy Saunders
ABOVE: J Ricc red-and-white gingham tracksuit, $485. J Ricc lace men’s button-down shirt, $129. J Ricc Palmer 11 casual oxford shoes, $169. Riccardo’s Menswear.
RIGHT: Vayder Bassi bomber jacket, $745. Vayder Costante cargo pants, $625. AllSaints Neko leopard cardigan, $279. Robert Barakett Georgia Pima cotton T-shirt, $69.50. Ted Baker weekender bag, $350. Nordstrom. Kurt Geiger Laney men’s metallic leather sneakers, $205. kurtgeiger.us. Riccardo’s Menswear.
J Ricc modified high-neck cable-knit sweater, $129. J Ricc pinstripe casual slacks, $89. Riccardo’s Menswear.
FROM THE COVER:
AllSaints Badwan leather biker jacket, $659.
AllSaints Bubble Saints crewneck sweater, $269. Levi’s premium 501 original stretch straight-leg jeans, $98. Nordstrom. Christian Louboutin men’s Seavaste
2 patent leather sneakers, $1,195. Neiman Marcus.
The Motor Enclave racing suit, $800. Carbon-fiber helmet, $850. TME gloves, $200. The Motor Enclave. Theory men’s Cosmos essential T-shirt, $75. Neiman Marcus. Vince water-repellent combat boots, $395. Nordstrom.
THIS PAGE: Robert Graham leather moto jacket, $798. Robert Graham bulldog graphic T-shirt, $98. Zegna five-pocket pants, $750. Alexander McQueen men’s retro trainer leather and suede sneakers, $830. Neiman Marcus.
FAR LEFT: Casablanca monogrammed textured pearl shirt, $825. Casablanca jacquard logo terry shorts, $680. Theory short-sleeve knit shirt, $95. J Ricc genuine tiger eye stone bracelets, $100 each. Riccardo’s Menswear. Nordstrom brand tortoise sunglasses, $98. Nordstrom.
Scotch & Soda crochet knit cardigan, $198. Vince short-sleeve Pima jersey T-shirt, $65.
44 mm watch, $2,995. Dior smooth calfskin and leather sneakers, $1,150. Neiman Marcus. J Ricc genuine tiger eye stone bracelets, $100 each. Riccardo’s Menswear.
CREATIVE TEAM
PHOTOGRAPHY
Brian James IG: @brianjamesgallery brianjamesgallery.com
Téa Bremner, assistant IG: @tea.bremner.photography
FASHION STYLING
Tina Jackson tinajstyle.com IG: @tinajstyle
Kaelyn Miller, assistant IG: @kae.milz
MEN’S GROOMING
Jackie Cupples IG: @lilsoldierjack
MODEL
Tanner Hoose IG: @t_hoose
7 For All Mankind Slimmy luxe performance jeans, $198. Christian Louboutin Loubifunk leather one-strap backpack, $940. Shinola limited-edition Canfield Speedway Lap 07
AT LA KE WO OD RA NC H, GR EA T MO ME NT S AR E MA DE TO GE TH ER . SHO PP IN G & DI NI NG NATU RE & RE CR EATI
TRAVEL
TRANSFIXED BY
PORTUGAL’S STUNNING CERAMIC TILES AREN’T JUST FOR DECORATION. THEY’RE PIECES OF HISTORY, CULTURE AND GUESS WHAT? THEY’RE ALSO ENERGY-EFFICIENT.
BY AMY SCHERZER
From the moment I stepped off the plane in Lisbon, the tiles seemed to beckon. Everywhere I turned, colorfully painted tiles covered homes and businesses, inside and out. Walls, windows and steps; street signs, churches and train stations — nearly every surface was wrapped in a ceramic work of art.
Visiting my expat cousin Nancy Sheldon in the fall, I envisioned walking the windy coastline and getting lost in Lisbon’s medieval quarter. We would seek out the freshest grilled sardines, devour the renowned Belém pastries and sip fine port wine. I might even try an octopus hot dog from a famous chef at the Time Out Market.
But I didn’t expect to become completely obsessed with Portuguese azulejos, the beautiful ceramic tiles that appeared everywhere I turned, magically making every street an open-air art gallery.
The more azulejos I saw, the more I was fascinated. I snapped countless photos of tiled façades and embellished fountains. I marveled at centuries-old murals of maritime and hunting scenes and never tired of staring at intricate blue-and-white pastoral landscapes. I loved the arabesque starbursts as much
Visitors to Lisbon, Portugal, appreciate the Convento de Madre de Deus, a former convent and church that houses the National Museum of the Azulejo. Photo from Shutterstock.
as the modern art deco patterns. Rarely did I see the same design twice.
I was in awe wandering room to room at the National Tile Museum in Lisbon, home to the largest collection of Portuguese tiles in the world, with designs ranging from the 15th century to last week.
There, I learned to thank the Moors for bringing the ancient art form to Europe as complex mosaics. The name azulejo comes from the Arabic word “al-zulaich,” which means “little polished stone.” Their intricate geometric patterns show an early knowledge of science and mathematics as Islamic tradition discourages the depiction of living beings.
Like me, the Portuguese royals and wealthy families were wild for the artistic azulejos. During decades of Spanish rule (1580-1640), rich folks commissioned
narrative and devotional tile panels for their palaces, churches and monasteries. I’m so grateful to the aristocrats who splurged on the beautiful artwork and to the skilled craftsmen who continue to restore and maintain them.
I was most impressed by the huge, elaborate storytelling panels covering entire rooms. How, given the tools of the era, were those hand-painted ceramic squares assembled so perfectly? I felt a little less inept when a guide pointed out errant paint flaws and subtle misalignments in the masterpieces.
By the 16th century, Portugal’s own tile industry was flourishing and other styles of azulejos developed, including maiólica, where artists paint on a layer of white enamel on wet clay. The result looks more vivid, especially the cobalt blue tones influenced by Chinese porcelain and the Dutch Delftware
imported by Portuguese merchants.
Decorative tiles became utilitarian after the Great Lisbon Earthquake of 1755 leveled the city, killing more than 50,000 people in a single day. During the decades of rebuilding, mass production ramped up to make ceramic tiles durable, cheap and plentiful. Also, practical. Water-resistant and easy to clean, the tiles began to appear on interior and exterior construction as a layer of insulation to absorb and store heat. I sure wish we’d see such energy-efficient art and architecture in Florida.
Heading home after 10 days exploring, eating and, I’ll admit it, shopping, my suitcase was packed with the iconic tile art printed on trivets, tote bags and tablecloths. I’m truly not a souvenir person, but I know the beautiful azulejos will make me smile long after I’ve come home.
Artistic Calçada mosaic pavement tiles line the historic seaside town of Cascais, Portugal. Photo from Shutterstock.
The National Tile Museum in Lisbon holds eight centuries of Portuguese tiles, the largest collection in the world. Photos by Amy Scherzer.
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HOBBIES
TELL YOUR STORY
BY KERRY KRISEMAN
Kerry Kriseman is the author of “Accidental First Lady: On the Front Lines (and Behind the Scenes) of Local Politics,” her memoir of life as a political spouse. She also teaches memoir writing at the Osher Lifelong Learning Institute at Eckerd College and an online class about writing, publishing and marketing. We asked her to share her writing experience and some tips on how to pen our own life stories. - Kathy Saunders
Illustration by Shutterstock.
Everyone has a story within, and for those who are compelled to tell theirs, memoir is a genre that is deeply personal yet has the potential to help someone. When readers see themselves in your story, it creates community and connection, and I believe we could all use a little more of that these days. Unlike an autobiography, which encompasses a person’s entire life, memoirs capture a poignant period of life. We write memoirs for a variety of reasons:
Legacy: To preserve family history, share lessons learned and document experiences that otherwise might be forgotten.
Healing and reflection: To find healing or closure after going through trauma or personal challenges.
Inspiration: To provide comfort, guidance or motivation to readers who may have had to harness vulnerability and authenticity in similar circumstances.
Personal growth: To explore self-discovery and a deeper understanding of one’s own life story.
Once you’ve written your memoir, the next step is getting it into the hands of readers. Fortunately, there are multiple pathways to publication.
Agented Publishing
Traditional publishing remains the dream for many writers. In this model, aspiring authors query agents with carefully crafted pitches that include a synopsis of the memoir, sample chapters and a strong query letter.
Being traditionally published is still seen as a major accomplishment. Books published through agents have the
potential to reach a wide audience through established distribution channels like bookstores and online retailers. Authors with agents often receive an advance against future royalties as well. The downside? It’s not easy finding an agent. Querying agents and waiting for responses can be a lengthy process. It’s also extremely competitive.
Self-Publishing
This is a popular option for writers who want control over the publishing process. Platforms like Amazon’s Kindle Direct Publishing make it easy to publish your book and authors maintain complete creative control over their memoirs, including the cover design, pricing and content. The books can be published faster, and authors can keep a higher percentage of royalties. It can be costly though, as self-published authors may need to hire editors, cover designers and marketers. The books also may not be available at bookstores without a lot of additional effort. All self-published authors must learn to be skilled marketers.
Hybrid Publishing
This is the middle ground between
traditional and self-publishing. Authors pay a publisher to help with editing, design and marketing while retaining more control than in traditional publishing.
Authors have the benefit of collaborating with professionals to get books to market quicker and may share in a higher percentage of royalties. The hybrid process can get expensive and, again, it can lack the prestige of traditional publishers. Also, not all hybrid publishers are reputable, so the process requires a lot of research.
If you have been thinking about writing a memoir, start writing. A regular writing schedule, even for just 15 minutes a day, will propel you to the finish line.
Cultivate a mindset of self-worth and the belief that every story matters and that your voice deserves to be heard.
Engage with a supportive writing community for motivation, feedback and accountability. Remember, your story is valuable, and no one can tell it the way you can. Your readers are waiting.
To work with Kriseman or enroll in her class, visit kerrykriseman.com.
Kerry Kriseman at home in her library. Photo courtesy of Kerry Kriseman.
SOCIAL SCENE
Creative Pinellas Arts Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser
Creative Pinellas quickly transformed its annual arts fundraiser into an evening of “hope and healing,” raising $20,000 to help local artists recover, sustain and expand their livelihoods in the devastating aftermath of hurricanes Helene and Milton. Guests at the Arts
Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser on Dec. 7 enjoyed Creative Pinellas’ 2024 exhibition, curated by Beth Gelman, senior director of arts and cultural programming, and “Still Shining,” an exhibition of 25 canvases curated by Merritt Horan and sponsored by Visit St. Pete-Clearwater. Performances by the Azara Ballet, music by Soul Mafia and a pop-up gift shop at The Gallery at Creative Pinellas celebrated the resilience of the creative community. Text by Amy Scherzer. Photos by Sandrasonik Creative Photography.
Creative Pinellas CEO Margaret Murray.
From left, artists ChromaCreature, Kostar Kustoms, Mark Williams, Monica Fay, Merritt Horan, Meridian 727, James Hartzell, Steph Manchester and Ysanne Taylor.
“Still Shining” exhibition curator Merritt Horan.
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SOCIAL SCENE
The Poynter Institute
Bowtie Ball
For her decades of “courageous and trusted reporting,” ABC’s “Good Morning America” co-anchor Robin Roberts earned the 2024 Poynter Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Journalism at the nonprofit’s annual Bowtie Ball, a celebration of founder Nelson Poynter’s journalistic vision, ethics and signature neckwear. Wearing a brilliant fuchsia tuxedo, Roberts shared her three D’s: “discipline, determination and da Lord” during a VIP Q&A on the Hilton Tampa Downtown plaza. And yes, it’s on the record: Roberts will return to teach a course at the Poynter Institute, which owns the Tampa Bay Times and PolitiFact. The Nov. 16 benefit raised more than $1 million as 500 guests applauded Times reporters and ABC Action News chief meteorologist Denis Phillips for critical updates during hurricanes Helene and Milton. Text and photos by Amy Scherzer.
Robin Roberts. Photo courtesy of the Poynter Institute.
Denis and Robyn Phillips.
From left, Kevin Hancock, Uma DeSimine, Deborah Ferguson, Heidi Sherman and Ginny Stubblefield.
From left, Miriam “Mimi” Stamps, Mark Sena, Linda Saul-Sena and David Stamps.
Margo and John Catsimatidis.
SOCIAL
Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance and the USF Health Ataxia Research Center
FARA Energy Ball
“We hear you. We see you. We honor you,” declared FARA Energy Ball co-chair Janell Griggs to the Friedreich’s ataxia warriors and families joined in the pursuit of lifesaving treatments for the rare, progressive neuromuscular disease. The Dec. 6 gala, benefiting the Friedreich’s Ataxia Research Alliance and the USF Health Ataxia Research Center, marked the ninth year that Janell and Steve Griggs, CEO of Vinik Sports Group, served as co-chairs of the event. But WFTS-Ch. 28 anchor Wendy Ryan topped their record, emceeing the ball for an impressive 15th year. Heartfelt gratitude flowed from FARA Energy Ball co-founders Suzanne and Paul Avery and their daughters, Laurel and Alison, both FA warriors, describing the global effort to slow, stop, reverse and ultimately cure FA. Mega auction bidding for deluxe vacations and the Blonde Ambition Band kept the energy charged and the party upbeat as 400 guests at the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street added $1.5 million to the $20 million that the organization has raised since 2009. Text and photos by Amy Scherzer.
Top row, from left, Bob Buckhorn, David D’Onofrio, Danny Hernandez, Doug Rothschild, Taylor Bradley, Tom Bradley and Mike Mezrah. Bottom row, from left, Kurt Hull, Herman Fernandez, Paul Avery, Dave Caverly, Paul Jacobs and Jim Pollard.
From left, Sarah Montgomery-Foglia, Amy Hull, Anna Alfano, Suzanne Avery, Kim Linton, Ava Forney and Janey DePew.
Steve and Janell Griggs.
From left, Jo Wojtkowski, Michelle Young and Lisa Sobieray.
Peter and Missy Crisp. Terry Lea Pepin-Brown and Renee Magrane.
From left, Tom Bradley, Kyle Bryant and Angela Ritschel.
SOCIAL SCENE
Equality Florida Beyond the Ballot Gala
Drag queens Jade Embers and Gia Banks beamed with pride as they welcomed guests to Equality Florida’s sold-out Beyond the Ballot Gala, their excitement as sparkling as their gowns at raising a record-breaking $690,000 to help the LGBTQ+ advocacy organization fight discrimination. Nadine Smith, Equality Florida’s executive director, delivered her State of the State address and Dr. Gary Howell received the Voice for Equality Award for providing affordable care to vulnerable gender-diverse people. Earlier at the Nov. 22 event at Armature Works, gala chairman Michael Womack presented a Lifetime Achievement Award to retired WTVT-Ch. 13 meteorologist Andy Johnson for his decades of advocacy. Text and photos by Amy Scherzer.
From left, Jack Forsyth, Ryan Reynolds, Nick Machuca and Alex Quinto.
From left, Sister Aura Babylon, Sister Regina Apis, Sister Battie Mage and Sister Wanda Ita Schrüm of the Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence.
Barbara and Dr. Robert Schwartz.
Michael Womack and Andy Johnson.
Phil Dinkins and Ed Lally.
Tom Hall and Kenny Jewett.
SOCIAL SCENE Joshua House Bowties & Clutches
With holiday spirit, style and swagger, The Fashion Movement hosted its annual Bowties & Clutches gathering, a fun and fanciful cocktail party featuring the Wesley Chapel High School Wildcat Band, Jah Movement Band, DJ Silencer and DJ David. Over 200 guests celebrated culture and couture at the Tampa Garden Club on Dec. 14, with models showing off fashions by Roc My Clutch, Audrey Pat Designs, Ricc Rollins, Bracho + Bosch and Jacka Saldana. A silent auction and raffle benefited Joshua House, a therapeutic residence sheltering foster children ages 6 to 17 in East Tampa. Text by Amy Scherzer. Photos by Sergii Lakhno.
From left, Yermila Lampathakis, Yanique Malcolm, Samantha Rollins, Marie Joseph and Ta’Nashea McLeod.
Models at Bowties & Clutches.
Models at the annual event smile for the camera.
The Wesley Chapel High School Wildcat Band.
Tasha Cohen-Glynn and Carinne Turney-Williams.
https://www.instagram.com/kellysroastbeef_fl/
SOCIAL SCENE
Ryan Nece Foundation Power of Giving Holiday Party
A festive evening of cocktails, charcuterie, casino games and cigars capped the 16th year of the Ryan Nece Foundation’s annual Power of Giving Holiday Party in support of its teen leadership and community service training program. Former Tampa Bay Buccaneer Ryan Nece’s curriculum teaches volunteerism, time management and communication skills to over 1,000 high school students through monthly discussions and service projects, emphasizing the ethos “If not you, then who?” Approximately 250 supporters celebrated at the Dec. 12 benefit at The Orlo. DJ Fresh set the party beat as blackjack and roulette winnings turned into cool prizes (like virtual reality goggles), and guests raised nearly $90,000 to meet and expand the foundation’s goals. Text and photos by Amy Scherzer.
From left, Sandy Moreno, Cece Clark and Aaron Ward-Quick. Photo by Tacy Briggs-Troncoso.
From left, Ryan Nece, Lisa Yob and Monica and Marc Matthews.
From left, James and Nicole Harkness, Scott Noonan and Dr. Nekeshia and Laurence Hammond.
From left, Justin Petredis, Jacqueline Simms-Petredis and Arianne and Ryan Corbett. Photo by Tacy Briggs-Troncoso.
From left, high school students Matvii Martynenko, Catherine Jayaraj, Ana Abraham and alumnus Sanjeev Varma.
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SOCIAL SCENE
Tampa Bay History Center Ships & Saddles Gala
Tampa’s early settlers could only dream of the feast enjoyed by the 400 guests at the Tampa Bay History Center’s annual gala, dubbed Ships & Saddles, to celebrate the region’s maritime and agricultural heritage. The Columbia Restaurant catered a vast seafood and barbecue buffet overflowing with oysters, clams, mussels, shrimp, lobster and crab claws, plus brisket, smoked alligator, ribs, duck, venison-boar chili and much more. For dessert, attendees enjoyed all sorts of s’mores. Gala co-chairs Duncan and Jessica Belser encouraged Stetsons, boots and bolo ties at the black-tie gala where guests could follow docents and take their cowboy punch up to the Crow’s Nest observation deck. The Paul Vesco Band played all evening, uninterrupted by speeches, auctions or programs. The Nov. 8 benefit topped previous records, netting $170,000 for student and public education programs. Text by Amy Scherzer.
Tampa.
Photos by Joe Photo
Jaynie and Stan Whitcomb.
From left, Cindy and Jay Greyson, Timm Sweeney and Kay Wilson.
From left, Newman Delany, Paige Goodwin Delany, Lizzie Goodwin and Kiran Lingam.
Duncan and Jessica Belser.
Cameron and Jessica Diehl.
SOCIAL SCENE
St.
Joseph’s Women’s Hospital Holiday Fashion Show
Shopping, lunching and fancying holiday fashions marked St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital’s 50th birthday at a dazzling winter benefit hosted by the St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation. Dillard’s International Plaza’s sparkly dresses and slinky gowns filled the runway, with Event Show Productions entertainers performing between ensembles, including a hula hooper spinning a dozen hoops, a pair of acrobatic muscle men and a Snoop Dogg-style rapper. Event co-chairs Morgan Molinari and Stacey Crum, both born at St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital, asked the 850 guests to stand if they’d ever used the hospital’s services. Nearly everyone got to their feet. A third of the JW Marriott Tampa Water Street ballroom displayed a chic Dillard’s boutique where 10% of every sale went to the foundation. From shopping sprees to auction bids and sponsorships, the Nov. 22 event raised more than $500,000 to purchase 26 new Panda Warmers for the hospital’s labor and delivery department. Text and photos by Amy Scherzer.
From left, Tashia Diaz-Walker, Stacey Crum, Morgan Molinari and Cherie Schonbrun.
From left, Cheri O’Neil, Nicole O’Neil and Clint Searcy admire a Panda Warmer.
From left, Robyn Payant, Christina Keller, Kim Droege, Tammy See and Michelle Schaefer.
From left, Jim Baumgartner, Keri Eisenbeis and Jimmy Baumgartner.
SOCIAL SCENE
Stuart Society of the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg Smartly Dressed
Ooh la la! The annual Smartly Dressed fashion show, hosted by the Margaret Acheson Stuart Society in support of the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, was très chic. Sassy “Moulin Rouge!” cancan dancers kicked across the runway as Dillard’s International Plaza showcased dazzling winter trends and event co-chairs Kristin Connell and Lindsay Carter whisked 460 guests away on a “Passport to Paris” without ever leaving the historic Coliseum. Guests could shop at a Dillard’s mini boutique, buy the lovely floral centerpieces and get lucky with raffle tickets for vacations and gift certificates at the Dec. 12 event. New museum executive director Klaudio Rodriguez enjoyed mingling with members at his first Stuart Society event. Text by Amy Scherzer. Photos by Emily Upham Will.
From left, Kristin Connell, Lisa Funsch, Klaudio Rodriguez and Lindsay Carter.
Elise Elsberry and Lauren Krawczyk.
From left, Crissy McWilliams, Dimity Carlson and Sophie Bel. Photo courtesy of Elise Elsberry.
Lisa and Michael Funsch. Photo courtesy of Elise Elsberry.
Mary Ann Will and Emily Upham Will. Photo courtesy of Elise Elsberry.
Models in Dillard’s fashions.
Tee-up a memorable experience at the PGA TOUR’s most fan-friendly event!
See the world’s best golfers, with activities for everyone and hospitality options you won’t want to miss! Plus, your Saturday ticket includes the Valspar LIVE presented by Chick-fil-A concert featuring Jordan Davis.
Prem iu m ti cket op ti ons in cl ud e:
• Sn ake Pi t Cl ub pres en te d by Am er iLi fe an d Ke te l On e, wi th al l- incl us ive food an d a fu ll -s er vi ce prem iu m ba r in ve nue s wi th vi ews of th e 16 th a nd 17 th green s.
• Th e DEX Ima gi ng De ck , an al l- new sh ared ho spi ta lit y ve nu e on th e 11t h green/ 12 th te e, fe at ur in g a fu ll- se rv ice prem iu m ba r and fo od fo r pu rc ha se
• Ho oter s Ow l’s Ne st , wi th co mp lim ent ar y be er an d Hoo te rs wi ng s, over lo ok in g th e 12 th gree n.
2024 ChampionPeter Malnati
SOCIAL SCENE CALENDAR
by Amy Scherzer
Feb. 11: Eighth annual Tampa Bay Food Fight, which benefits Metropolitan Ministries. Tickets start at $100. 6-9 p.m. Amalie Arena. tampabayfoodfight.org.
Feb. 15: Decades Rewind, which benefits American Stage. Groovy ’60s, ’70s and ’80s attire. $300. 6-10 p.m. The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art. americanstage.org/gala.
Feb. 15: Fostering Hope Gala, which benefits A Kid’s Place of Tampa Bay. $350. 4:30 p.m. The Motor Enclave. bit.ly/akpgala2025.
Feb. 20: Fourth annual Fit to Be King Luncheon, which benefits The Phoenix Tampa. Guest speakers are David and Nic Sheff. $100. 11:45 a.m. Armature Works. fittobeking2025.funraise.org.
Feb. 21: Imagination Gala, which benefits the Glazer Children’s Museum. $250. 6:30 p.m. Armature Works. glazermuseum.org.
Feb. 22: Charity Polo Classic, which benefits six charities. $300. 12-5 p.m. DI Polo Tour. charitypoloclassic.com.
Feb. 22: Gala for the Straz Center. $800. 6 p.m. Morsani Hall at the Straz Center for the Performing Arts. strazcenter.org.
Feb. 26: Tampa Bay Go Red for Women, which benefits the American Heart Association. $500. 5-8 p.m. Tampa Museum of Art. heart.org/tampabaygored.
March 2: Hollywood Awards Night, which benefits the Tampa Theatre. Tickets start at $30. 5:30 p.m. tampatheatre.org/ hollywood-awards-night.
March 7-8: WineFest: “Harry Potter and the Goblet of Wine,” which benefits the Tampa Theatre. March 7: Premium tasting, $130 ($120 for members). 7 p.m. Grand tasting, $80 ($70 for members). 8 p.m. tampatheatre.org/winefest.
March 11: 10th annual Spring Soiree, which benefits the Hospice Women of Philanthropy. Guest speaker is Tembi Locke. $85. 11:30 a.m. Armature Works. 813-871-8444 or foundation4lphgroup@chaptershealth.org.
March 12: Women of Distinction Luncheon, which benefits the Girl Scouts of West Central Florida. $150. Noon. Armature Works. 813-262-1768. gswcf.org.
PARTY WITH A PURPOSE
March 15: The 60th annual Chiselers Market, which benefits historic preservation at H. B. Plant Hall. Free admission. 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The University of Tampa. thechiselersinc.com.
March 15: Disco in the Desert Gala, which benefits St. Anthony’s Hospital Foundation. $350 and up. 5:30-10 p.m. The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art. 727-825-1086. stanthonysfoundation.org.
March 29: CITY: Fashion+Art+Culture, which benefits the Tampa Museum of Art. Featuring the designs of Balmain. $500. 7 p.m. Tampa Museum of Art. tampamuseum.org/city.
March 29: Tampa Bay Heart Ball, which benefits the American Heart Association of Tampa Bay. $1,200. 6 p.m. The Motor Enclave. 727-563-8000 or kazaba@heart.org.
March 29: One Night in Paris Gala, which benefits CASA Pinellas. Sponsorships start at $1,000 per couple. 6 p.m. Museum of the American Arts and Crafts Movement. casapinellas.org/event/casas-2025-spring-gala.
March 29: Mice & Dice Casino Night, which benefits The Kind Mouse. $150. 5-9:30 p.m. M & N Event Hall. thekindmouse.org.
Contact Amy Scherzer at amyscherzersdiary@gmail.com to have your event listed on the calendar.
Valentine’sDayFriday , February14,2025 Sunday Feb. 9, 2025 Order Early!
