Tampa Bay Illustrated November 2009 by Palm Beach Media Group

ILLUSTRATED

HOT

UNDER 40 Tampa’s next generation

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CONTENTS { NOVEMBER 2009 36

HOT 20 UNDER 40 The next generation of Tampa’s go-getters

By Stephen Brown

SMOKIN’ GOOD Tampa Bay has a love affair with a good cigar. By Ginger Warder

MOTION PICTURES Fall’s new looks are blockbuster hits.

Dress, Derek Lam, New York (212-966-1616)

2 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

ROBERT ADAMO

Photography by Robert Adamo

CONTENTS { NOVEMBER 2009

BUZZ 17

CLOSE UP Nate Najar’s classical guitar

SAVOR 73

DISH Brewed by a legend

THE LIST Hot, hip happenings

LIBATIONS A sweet look at bitters

FACES Local people on the rise

TASTE The charming Pia’s Trattoria

NEIGHBORHOODS A closer look at the Bay area

DINING OUT Area restaurant guide

STYLE 23

PUBLISHER’S LETTER

TRENDS Grabbable clutches

DESIGN 85

SPACES Welcome home

ELEMENTS Light up your life

SCENE 89

CULTURE Ethereal landscapes

CALENDAR A complete guide to local events

SOCIETY Hot parties, beautiful people

BACK STORY Daniel Ulbricht dances on

ON THE COVER 24

MOST WANTED 10 must haves for fall

LEISURE

85 4 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

ESCAPES Virginia’s Primland Resort

HIGH ROAD Welcome to “Pebble”

Mattias Öhlund, defenseman for the Tampa Bay Lightning Photographed for TBI by Robert Adamo

SCOTCH & SODA

Saks loves brother nature.

TAMPA 813.371.5100 © SAKS FIFTH AVENUE 2009

GET BACK TO YOUR RUGGED ROOTS WITH TAMPA’S MOST FORMIDABLE GUYS’ LINEUP AT SAKS FIFTH AVENUE

Publisher Associate Publisher Editorial Director

‘tis the season for

EARLY PLANNING Save the date for your holiday party and reserve our Private Dining Room for your event. Or, make any gathering a celebración with catering from Cantina Laredo. Contact us to plan the menu to fit your budget.

Ronald J. Woods Beth Ann Drake Daphne Nikolopoulos

EDITORIAL Managing Editor

Michelle M. Havich

Associate Editor

Stephen Brown

Editor at Large Fashion & Style Director

Jason Davis Katherine Lande

Market Editor

Hilary Greene

Spirits Editor

Mark Spivak

Dining Editor

Julie W. Martin

Automotive Editor

Howard Walker

Editorial Intern

Sara Horn

DESIGN Design Director Art Directors

Olga M. Gustine Reynaldo Martin, Diana Ramírez

Associate Art Director

Jorge Márquez

Assistant Art Director

Adrianna Lunsford

Digital Imaging Specialist

Leo Sorbba

Contributing Writers

Robert Ragaini, Lola Thélin Contributing Photographers

Robert Adamo, Sean Deren, Dan Gaye, Robert Nelson, Mark Sickles, Mark Wemple

ADVERTISING Account Managers

GET A $10 GUEST CARD* for yourself when you purchase $50 in gift cards on your next visit.

Carli Slingerland, 813-739-6675 cslingerland@tampabayillustrated.com National Account Manager Advertising Services Manager Advertising Intern

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6 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

Nolan Finn, 813-739-6676 nfinn@tampabayillustrated.com

Julie Stanford, 561-472-1915 jstanford@palmbeachmedia.com Sue Martel, 561-472-1901 smartel@palmbeachmedia.com Sasha Wallace, 813-739-6670 swallace@tampabayillustrated.com Marjorie Leiva, 561-472-1910 mleiva@palmbeachmedia.com

Tampa Bay Illustrated 1000 N. Dixie Hwy., Suite C, West Palm Beach, FL 33480 Telephone 516.659.0210 Fax 516.659.1736 Tampa Bay Illustrated™is a registered trademark of Palm Beach Media Group, Inc. Corporate headquarters: P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480

tampabayillustrated.com

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PALM BEACH M

Chairman Group Publisher/ Chief Operating Officer Controller

William R. Wehrman Roger E. Coenen

Kaleigh Grover

Design Director Operations Director Director, Production and Manufacturing Marketing Manager Marketing Coordinator Advertising Design Coordinator Senior Account Manager Account Managers

Be bold. National Account Manager Advertising Services Managers Editor, Palm Beach Resort Media Group Business Manager Office Manager Circulation/Fulfillment Administrator

Ronald J. Woods

Associate Publisher, Naples

Editorial Director

Dress by Dina Bar-el

Randie Dalia

Executive Director, Marketing and Special Projects

Embrace the fashions

Associate Group Publisher, Palm Beach and Tampa Bay

Associate Publisher, Tampa Bay

Show your true colors.

Beth Ann Drake

Allison Wolfe Reckson Daphne Nikolopoulos Olga M. Gustine Todd Schmidt Terry Duffy Megan Love Blomqvist Lauren Stewart Jeffrey Rey Deidre Wade Donna Egdes, Nolan Finn, Katie Gamble, Brenda Ruth, Linda Sciuto, Barbara Shafer, Carli Slingerland Julie Stanford Sue Martel, Shalyn Ormsby Jason Davis Karen M. Powell M.B. Valdes Marjorie Leiva

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PROMOTION AND EVENTS â&#x20AC;˘ NOVEMBER 2 009

Comprehensive Breast Care Center The Comprehensive Breast Care Center of Tampa Bay offers advanced treatment for benign and cancerous diseases of the breast. Featuring two board-certified, fellowship-trained breast disease doctors, Peter W. Blumencranz and Kathleen G. Allen, the center offers complete and personalized patient care. 303 Pinellas St., Suite 310, Clearwater 727-462-2131

Aurora Outdoor Lighting Aurora Outdoor Lighting provides design, installation, product supply and service for landscape, architectural, underwater and marine applications. Its staff combines creativity, innovative design, technology, energy efficiency and customer service for residential and commercial lighting projects. 19329 U.S. Highway 19 N., Suite 100, Clearwater 727-524-4270 | auroraoutdoor.us.com

Hospitality Concepts Unlimited Owned and operated by chefs to ensure high-quality food and unique menu ideas, this full-service company offers 25 years of experience catering and coordinating special events. Its mission is to create memorable occasions that encompass a passion for creative food and impeccable service. 1829 Tallokas Ave., Suite A, Orlando 407-468-4523 | hcucatering.com

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{ PUBLISHER’S LETTER

Opportunity Knocks ast year around this time, at a holiday party in New York, billionaire investor and philanthropist Ronald O. Perelman surprised attendees by announcing donations of $25,000 apiece to several small charitable organizations. The surprise wasn’t in the amount; it was in the direction. Perelman— the nation’s twenty-sixth largest donor, according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy, having given $63.5 million to worthy causes in 2008—usually makes headlines for large contributions to large organizations. His sentiment was obvious: The big contributions would continue, he promised, but there are many opportunities to make an impact through a greater number of smaller contributions to smaller organizations, where the cash infusion will have proportionately greater effect. The uncertain economy has affected everyone to some degree, but charities really have felt the pinch, especially on the local level. If you’ve looked at the social calendar for the next several months, you’ve probably noticed some superficial evidence—the charity gala season isn’t quite as busy as it was in past years. Many nonprofits are scaling back to focus on the core components of their operations, and some formal affairs have been deemed “not essential.” To be sure, galas are not the reason why charitable organizations exist, but they are useful—and, yes, enjoyable—ways to generate contributions and raise awareness for a good cause. Right now, however, these organizations are facing bigger challenges than deciding themes and menus. And this is where opportunity lies for each of us. Our personal circumstances permit us to support worthy causes, and, believe me, there are plenty of them out there. And while it’s entirely possible that the prevailing conditions may preclude grand gestures right now, it is an excellent time to take a page from Perelman’s handbook and find a few local organizations that will most benefit from your direct assistance—whether it’s through your financial means, your leadership talents, your business connections, or your time. I’ve said it before, but I’ll say it again: It is profoundly rewarding to see the direct effects of one’s own generosity, and that may be more true today than ever before.

RONALD J. WOODS editorial@tampabayillustrated.com

12 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

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}

buzz

CLOSE-UP | GUITAR HERO NATE NAJAR BRINGS BACK THE MUSIC OF THE PAST WITH HIS OWN SPIN.

Strapped with a classical guitar, Nate Najar’s orchestral approach to playing jazz is lush in tonality and verve, creating melodies and funky tunes that hum from the strings, giving the instrument a voice of its own. With the release of his newest album, Until Now, he is giving the world its swing back, recreating a style of music not heard since the bopping days of Charlie Byrd and Wes Montgomery in the 1950s and ’60s. As Najar, 28, gears up for a tour across the Northeast and his annual Christmas performance at the Palladium in St. Petersburg this December, he takes a moment to talk jazz with TBI. —Stephen Brown

TBI: What does jazz mean to you? NAJAR: To me jazz is a feeling; that’s the bottom line. It has to have a swing to it. It could be a traditional swing or something with a funky beat. The most important thing about jazz is the feeling in the music. And of course a good melody, and the way an instrumentalist will play with and embellish and improvise around the melody. Why the classical guitar? To me, there is a disconnect with the electric guitar. I do enjoy it quite a bit but there is a very personal connection with the classical guitar when I am playing it. I can feel the instrument vibrating in my hands. Who would you like to jam with? Duke Ellington, Antonio Carlos Jobim and Prince—I would love to play with Prince. He

JAMES SILVERA

is an absolute genius.

NOVEMBER 2009 17

buzz { the list PIE IN THE SKY BE THE TALK OF THE THANKSGIVING FEAST, BUT IN A GOOD WAY, BY SERVING UP A LITTLE SLICE OF HEAVEN FROM MIKE’S PIES. HE BOASTS THESE ARE THE MOST DELICIOUS PIES ON THE PLANET, AND WE HAVE TO CONTEND HE MIGHT BE RIGHT. OUR PERSONAL FAVORITE, THOUGH IT MAY NOT RING TRUE AS A TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY TREAT (BUT HEY, THIS IS FLORIDA), IS MIKE’S “KILLER” KEY LIME PIE—JUST THE RIGHT MIX OF TART AND SWEET. AND FOR THE PURIST AT HEART, A FORKFUL OF THE SOUTHERN PECAN PIE IS A MUST. (800-9187437, MIKESPIES.COM)

MUSICAL INTRIGUE Opera Tampa starts their 2009-2010 season with a bang—Donizetti’s Lucia di Lammermoor—at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center this November 20 and 22. The tragic tale takes place in Scotland, where aristocrat Lucia is forced to marry Arturo, but her heart really belongs to Edgardo, a political enemy of Lucia’s family. The highlight of the opera is Lucia’s Mad Scene. After marrying—and murdering—Arturo, Lucia goes mad in front of the wedding guests. The 15-minute aria “Il dolce suono…spargi d’amaro pianto” (“the sweet dream…sprinkled with bitter tears”) is a technically demanding aria for coloratura sopranos, but for Elizabeth de Trejo, it’s all in a day’s singing. operatampa.org

STEPPING OUT There are not many boutiques that bring fresh, original couture fashion exclusively to our shores. But when they do, we’re on it. Gioffrè Italian Fashion of Clearwater is our direct link to the Milan fashion scene. And when it comes to footwear, Angela Gioffrè doesn’t mess around. These shoes just beg to be worn on a night on the town. (727-442-4172, gioffrefashion.com)

GIDDY UP Though Florida is known for her warm, sandy beaches and

the story of wildlife and the story of people living on the landscapes.

bustling tourism trade, little light is shone on the Florida cowboy.

But in terms of style of photography I’m very much attracted to

Environmental photojournalist and Clearwater native Carlton Ward

beautiful, natural lighting. Ninety percent of my photography

Jr. grew up listening to his father tell bedtime stories about ranchers.

comes from predawn hours, or sunset, twilight hours, when the

As an eighth generation Floridian from a pioneering ranching family,

lighting is beautiful and people’s faces are open.

Ward’s heritage acted as a catalyst for his latest book, Florida Cowboys: Keepers of the Last Frontier. His photographs, along with

Any interesting stories while on assignment?

20 essays, are meant to create consciousness about the importance

Back in summer of 2007, Bob Hite, a retired news anchor here in

of the ranchers for the preservation of the state. —Aminta Iriarte

Tampa, and I were at the Babcock Ranch, near Fort Myers. I was cowboys picked out the tamest horse in the bunch for me. I climbed

Keepers of the Last Frontier?

up into the saddle, took

WARD: It’s one of those stories that’s been overlooked and forgotten

two steps and the horse

for too long. But in reality, 20 percent of the state of Florida, that’s

went into a full-blown,

almost 7 million acres, currently is cattle ranches. And the future of

rodeo bucking spree and

those landscapes is going to determine, to a large extent, the health

threw me four feet out

of the Everglades, the sustainability of our agriculture, economy, and

of the saddle, over the

the future of wildlife species, like bears and panthers.

horse’s head, flat on my back. And of course, Bob

How did you develop your style of photography? I’m more of an environmental photojournalist, and that includes 18 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

caught that on video.

CARLTON WARD JR.

going to ride a horse that day to get a different perspective, and the TBI: What was your inspiration behind Florida Cowboys:

buzz { faces

Sandra J.

Cadena

Billy

Morris

Paul Abercrombie COCKTAIL MAGNATE

THE LIFE SAVER

THE EXCAVATOR

The green movement has firmly embedded

SANDRA J. CADENA, PhD, ARNP, always

When most think of underwater archeology,

itself within our society; for everything from

was interested in nursing. Now this interest

the image of Spanish galleons comes to

shopping bags to couture fashion, organic

could change the world. Cadena, who is the

mind. But for

is in. Embracing this planet friendly trend,

director of global health at the University of

JOHN WILLIAM “BILLY” MORRIS III, underwater archeologist and

Tampa public relations consultant and writ-

South Florida, is one of more than 400 edu-

principal investigator for the Tampa Bay Sub-

er PAUL

ABERCROMBIE took this love

cators participating in the Fulbright Special-

merged Cultural Resource Survey with the

of all things organic and married it with his

ists Program, an international educational

Florida Aquarium, the goal is historical pres-

love for a great cocktail. His book, Organic,

exchange program sponsored by the U.S.

ervation. Recently discovering the Scottish

Shaken and Stirred, hit the market in Octo-

government. Based at El Bosque University

Chief, the second Confederate blockade run-

ber and features hundreds of organic cock-

in Bogota, Colombia, Cadena is focusing on

ner belonging to then-Tampa Mayor James

tail recipes that were “graciously shared”

developing a nursing accreditation review,

McKay (1859-1860), in the Hillsborough Riv-

by leading organic mixologists around the

new coursework, a master’s curriculum for

er, Morris is dedicated to uncover the mari-

country. As for a favorite, Abercrombie is

psychiatric nursing and a fundable collabora-

time heritage of Tampa Bay: “James McKay

at a loss. “Favorite? That’s almost impos-

tive research project. “I know the opportu-

was certainly the father of Tampa’s maritime

sible,” he says. “I like them all, or at least

nity for nursing is worldwide,” she says. “I

industry and his ships were the focal point of

a lot of them.” —Andrea Glick

hope USF can be a part of the international

the skirmish at Ballast Point, Tampa’s only

health community.” —A.G.

battle of the Civil War.” —Stephen Brown

20 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

buzz { neighborhoods BEACH DRIVE HISTORIC HOTELS, FINE ART, TASTY TREATS AND EXOTIC FASHION ARE JUST A FEW OF THE MAGNETIZING DRAWS TO ST. PETERSBURG’S NEWEST UP-AND-COMING NEIGHBORHOOD. BY STEPHEN BROWN

FLAPPERS AND PHILOSOPHERS TRANSPORT YOURSELF TO THE JAZZ ERA AT THE HISTORIC GRAYL’S HOTEL’S GATSBY’S RESTAURANT AND PACKARD’S BAR. THE CLOSE PROXIMITY OF THE BAR CREATES A JOVIAL ATMOSPHERE, MAKING EVEN THE FRESHEST OF FACES FEEL LIKE A REGULAR. SO TAKE A SEAT, ORDER UP A STRONGBOW AND SLÁINTE.

BOUTIQUE DE BRAZIL “FOR BOUTIQUES, ONE OF MY FAVORITE PLACES IS COCO BRAZIL,” OUR NEIGHBORHOOD INSIDER LINDA INMAN SAYS. “THEY HAVE REALLY COOL, ONE-OF-A-KIND THINGS YOU DON’T SEE ALL OVER THE PLACE.” AS THE NAME SUGGESTS, THIS IS THE PLACE TO FIND ALL THINGS BRAZILIAN. WITH DRESSES THAT ARE LIGHT AND AIRY AND SEPARATES THAT OOZE LATIN SENSUALITY, THIS IS A MUST ON ANY FASHIONISTA’S HIT LIST.

ICED TO PERFECTION It is hard to find a good gelato or sorbet this side of the Atlantic; blame it on the water. That is, of course, until you step into Paciugo. With more than 200 gelato and sorbet flavors made with traditional methods, it is as if you have been transported to Turin, Italy. Try the strawberry and balsamic vinegar sorbet—it sounds odd but tastes amazing.

▲

ACROSS THE POND TAKE ALL YOUR PRECONCEIVED NOTIONS OF BRITISH FOOD AND TURN THEM ON THEIR EAR. THE MOON UNDER WATER TAKES THE OLD MANTRA, “THE SUN NEVER SETS ON THE BRITISH EMPIRE,” AND TRANSLATES IT INTO THEIR MENU WITH SAMPLINGS OF INDIAN CURRIES, BRITISH COLONIAL SEAFOOD FARE, AND HOMETOWN FAVORITES LIKE THE TRADITIONAL FISH AND CHIPS.

LUNCH IS SERVED Finding the perfect restaurant to hold that all-important business lunch can be a daunting task. Parkshore Grill is Inman’s goto place. “They are one of my favorites. It is really easy to have a conversation there because they kind of space you out so you’re not right on top of one another. And they are consistently good, very reliable.”

NOVEMBER 2009 21

D e , Fl ida… “ t P lace to L i ” – CNN’s Money Magazine, June 2004

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SEAN DEREN / STYLED BY HILARY GREENE

style

{

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NOVEMBER 2009 23

v EDITOR'S LETTER

Creative Process ince we introduced “The Muses,” our annual celebration of Palm Beach women who inspire, three years ago, the feature has taken on a life of its own. At parties and luncheons, I am constantly asked about how our subjects are chosen, and what it takes to become a Muse. The answer is simple: A Muse need possess the qualities we admire—strength, personal achievement, commitment to family and community, an original sense of style, and beauty that wells up from within. This year’s Muses—Tracy Smith, Darcie Kassewitz, Mary Freitas and Tiffany Cloutier—have all these qualities, and then some. Conveying each lady’s individuality onto the printed page is no easy task. It is a months-long process that begins with detailed conceptualization by our creative team, and a lot of logistical back and forth with our community partners—in this case, Neiman Marcus, Palm Beach. Every aspect of the shoot, from the set design to the wardrobe styling, is meticulously planned and skillfully executed. But all the effort is worth it when we see our subjects shine. To see the results for yourself, turn to page 72. Vision and planning, of course, goes into all of our editorial content. In “Motion Pictures” (page 56), we have conceptualized a cinematic production full of energy and movement. Photographer Rob Adamo captures, in lights and motion, the mood of fashion from the fall and resort collections. It was fun to produce, and that comes across on the pages. Victoria Amory, our go-to person for all things entertaining, has conceived an original Thanksgiving celebration. In “A Place at the Table,” she combines holiday traditions with a sense of place that is unmistakably Palm Beach. Turn to page 64 for a taste of Victoria’s Thanksgiving style, and don’t forget to visit palmbeachillustrated.com for her yummy recipes. If you can use a little R&R right now, check out “Eau Wow” on page 80. We rounded up a group of Palm Beach girlfriends and planned a fun day for them at Eau Spa. Not only did they emerge refreshed, they had more laughs and bonding time than they had ever imagined. I hope you will enjoy the issue as much as we enjoyed putting it together for you.

ROBERT NELSON

Daphne Nikolopoulos daphne@palmbeachillustrated.com

Fun behind the scenes (from left): Kathleen Koons, Jordann Weingartner and Holly Weston admire the goods at Eau Spa between shots. Photographer Robert Nelson helps Darcie Kassewitz strike a pose. Photographer Rob Adamo, in guyliner, goofs around with model Natalia Luchinina. 24

PALM BEACH ILLUSTRATED

AN EYE FOR BEAUTY

▲

Create an intense eye for day or evening with the Ombre Éclat eyeshadow ($58) from Guerlain’s Russian Beauty collection. Nordstrom, International Plaza, Tampa (813-875-4400, guerlain.com)

GETTING TWIGGY WITH IT Bring the outdoors in with a botanical serving set ($29.95) for a beautiful autumnal tabletop. Cazou, Tampa (813-251-6410, shopcazou.com)

MULTIPLICITY The five-row bracelets ($1,750-$2,100) from David Yurman’s Confetti collection feature rhodolite garnet, amethyst, iolite, peridot, pink and green tourmaline, and diamonds. Saks Fifth Avenue, WestShore Plaza, Tampa (813-3715100, davidyurman.com)

HIT YOUR STRIDE Step out in high style with Manolo Blahnik tortoise print patent leather stilettos ($685). Saks Fifth Avenue, WestShore Plaza, Tampa (813-3715100, manoloblahnik.com)

IN THE BAG Indulge in this gorgeous hanging leaf crocodile tote ($3,380) by Nancy Gonzalez. Neiman Marcus, International Plaza, Tampa (813-877-5700, nancygonzalez.com)

NOVEMBER 2009 25

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ESCAPES | LUXURIOUSLY RUSTIC EMBRACE NATURE—AND THE GOOD LIFE—AT VIRGINIA’S PRIMLAND RESORT.

BY STEPHEN BROWN

In Appalachia there is a special affinity between the people and the land, harkening back to a time when Appalachee, Cherokee and Blackfoot tribes roamed the range stretching from Alabama to Newfoundland. Nestled along the spine of the Blue Ridge Mountains, Primland Resort holds true to the soulful permeance of this ancient mountain range. A 14,000-acre parcel of land, Primland stretches from peak to peak, looking over an untouched valley carved by the Dan River. The land of the Primland Resort has a rather circuitous history, with signs of habitation dating back as far as 12,000 BCE. It was later settled by European immigrants for agricultural purposes (tobacco being the staple crop) and even saw a brief stint as a moonshiners’ paradise during those pesky days of Prohibition. In 1977, Frenchman Didier Primat fell in love with the idea of owning a piece of the American wilderness and purchased the parcel of land to use for logging. But by 1986, with the natural beauty and native game being so plentiful, Primat shifted activities from logging to a recreational resort, building mountainside cabins and opening his preserve to wing shooting and wild game hunting. With the opening of the Highlands Course golf course in 2006 and the Lodge in August of 2009, Primland Resort has become one of the top luxury resorts of the Blue Ridge.

NOVEMBER 2009 27

leisure { escapes Sculpted along the rim of the mountains, the Highland Course offers 18 holes of some of the most visually stimulating yet technically daunting golf on the East Coast. Designed by golf course architect Donald Steel, the Highland Course is an homage to golf’s roots, playing a picturesque partner to the highlands of Scotland, where the rough is thick with natural variable and wildlife always plays through. The newest jewel of the Primland Resort is the Lodge, which resembles a Swiss ski resort more than a Blue Ridge hunting lodge. The great room’s dual fireplaces are tall enough to walk through, and the slate and wormwood accents give subtle reminders of the region’s makeup. The 26 guest suites give new meaning to the term “roughing it.” With plush furnishings and a modern, Euro-chic design, you will be hard pressed to find a more luxurious chalet.

28 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

The telescope in the Observatory

The restaurant Elements accentuates the naturalistic vibe of the resort with a menu steeped in local cuisine. In the able hands of Executive Chef Andrea Griffith, menu selections change daily with a breakfast relying heavily on seasonal fruits, and a dinner menu consisting of three multiple-course

tasting menus, giving diners a new appreciation for Virginia’s epicurean scene. The Columbia River sturgeon always is a crowd pleaser. When guests are not enjoying the cuisine or picturesque views, the Lodge offers full spa treatments with a twist of European tradition, showing that a day of pampering is not just a perk of a beach resort. But for a truly unique experience the lodge has a one-in-a-kind eye on the sky. On the north end of the Lodge is a tower that looks like a large grain silo. But as the spinning roof yawns open, murmurs of “Also Sprach Zarathustra” from Stanley Kubrick’s 2001: A Space Odyssey begin to play in your head, as the probing eye of a telescope begins to translate the whisperings of the stars. The Observatory broadcasts its dazzling finds throughout the resort with a live video feed.

For the true sportsman, there is a plethora of game. Specializing in wing shooting, Primlandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s valley of hedgerows, woodlands and fields of milo, sorghum and switch grass create the perfect environment for the pheasant, chukar, quail and mallards that roam these parts. The fields open on the valley through woodland shade, creating waist-high seas of golden hunting grounds. This is a traditional hunt. The early release methods give the stocked game ample time to find nesting and mating territories amongst the grasses, making them exceedingly hard

flushing and exceptionally flighty, testing the eye of the most expert of shooters. Marching through the fields in a V pattern, shooters and a guide flank two well-trained pointers. It is up to the dogs, true veteran hunters, to mark the game. Standing as still as statues, their noses work diligently, marking the direction of the bird. For the more solitary hunter there is no shortage of wild turkey and deer. With elevated blinds and stands, the hunter is left to his own accord, making this true fair chase hunting. Primland Resort is a place like no other,

Primland Resort offers outdoor activities, including golf and wing shooting. Or, guests can curl up in front of the fire with a good book.

where hunting, catching a round of golf and observing the galaxies is all in a dayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s vacation. (866-960-7746, primland.com) â&#x2014;&#x2020;

NOVEMBER 2009 29

leisure { high road Caption goes here, Caption goes here, Caption goes here, Caption goes here, Caption goes here,

PHOTO CREDIT

Jay Leno (left) and California Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger

The Rolls-Royce EX200

A SHOW OF ELEGANCE SPENDING A WEEKEND, ROLLS-ROYCE-STYLE, AT THE ANNUAL PEBBLE BEACH CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE BY HOWARD WALKER

In life, there is nothing quite so decadent as being greeted at an airport by a man in a Rolls-Royce. Especially if the Rolls-Royce in question is a $400,000 midnight blue Phantom Coupé. Whereas the big, four-door Phantom sedan may hint at corporate transportation, or, heaven-forbid, hotel limousine, the two-door Coupé gently whispers, “This is yours, all yours.” As you stroll nonchalantly toward this rolling piece of sculpture parked curbside, crowds parting like Moses commanding the Red Sea, it’s impossible not to grin a Julia Roberts-like grin at your sheer good fortune. As the saying goes, “Life is good.” And it gets better. We’re gently wafting away from San Francisco International, heading south to the Monterey Peninsula. This is the setting for the fifty-ninth Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance, the world’s 30 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

greatest old car show, and we’re here to experience it Rolls-Royce-style. “Pebble,” as it’s affectionately known, is the Woodstock for the world’s wealthy car lovers. For one week in August, thousands of auto aficionados flock to this normally sleepy golfing mecca to eat, drink and sleep cars. In addition to the main Sunday Concours on the hallowed turf of the eighteenth fairway outside the Lodge at Pebble Beach, there are at least four key old car auctions, old car racing at the nearby Laguna Seca track, old car parades and a whole lot of old car salivating. Our weekend kicks off with the ever-so elegant “The Quail, a Motorsport Gathering” on the Friday at the Quail Lodge Resort and Golf Club. Pay your $400 entry and you too can mingle among more than 70 of the most extraordinary automobiles to ever roll on four wheels. Entry includes a first-rate

gourmet lunch, copious quantities of fine Champagne and desserts to die for. Over at the Rolls-Royce enclosure, the new EX200 concept is getting its first North American airing. While they call it a concept, this actually is the all-new Ghost sedan that goes on sale next spring as Rolls’ brand new $245,000 entry model. Picture a sleeker, scaled-down Phantom—it’s around eight inches shorter—yet one with the same sumptuous, sybaritic levels of luxury and comfort, but at about a third of the price. Power comes from a 6.6liter 563-horsepower V12 that will deliver acceleration akin to a Tomahawk missile. “This is more a car for the business suit than a tuxedo,” explains the always dapper, immaculately coiffed Tom Purves, Rolls-Royce chief exec who’s on hand to explain the car to potential customers. Of which there are many.

As for the fabled Best in Show award, it eventually goes to a massive, meticulously restored silver convertible built in 1937 by the now defunct German company Horsch. It’s probably worth more than $3 million. Who knows, maybe in 70 years’ time we might just see a Phantom Coupé take Best in Show. It would certainly get my vote. ◆ I love this new Ghost. It looks much less ostentatious than the massive Phantom sedan with its Greek Temple-style grille and hood the size of Texas. Its more compact dimensions should also make it more of a driver’s car too. But it’s hard to focus on the new Ghost without your eyes diverting to the outrageous cherry-red Rolls Phantom Drophead convertible berthed alongside. It’s here to be officially handed over to the passionate Rolls enthusiast Michael Fux. The ponytailed Miami-based sexagenarian, who made gazillions selling his memory foam mattress empire, has more than 100 cars in his collection, including a much-photographed all-yellow Phantom Drophead. His latest purchase took a team of RollsRoyce artisans more than three months to create and reportedly cost more than $700,000. Its array of bespoke features include a red carbon fiber dash, an all-white leather interior (including leather-covered floors), 10 coats of Sherwin-Williams and a crystal Flying Lady on the hood. “What can I say, I love creating cars that are unique. I challenged Rolls-Royce to build this car and they delivered,” Fux says. After a Saturday spent wafting our blue Phantom Coupé down the spectacular Pacific Coast Highway to Big Sur, Sunday morning sees us at Pebble Beach perusing 200 of the world’s finest classics lined up on the famous fairway. And celebs are everywhere. TV funnyman and consummate car guy Jay Leno is walking between the priceless Packards and Duesenbergs, while Jerry Seinfeld is over there polishing his Porsche racecar watched by the “Governator,” Arnold Schwarzenegger.

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ROB MOORMAN PHOTOGRAPHICS

ONE NIGHT, 1VOICE Event: Home Theater Gallery by Stram Electronics reception Benefiting: 1Voice Foundation Sponsored by: Saks Fifth Avenue, Mercedes-Benz of Tampa 1. Bryan Whittemore, Lynda Levitt, Steve Brickner 2. Jaime Brickner, Oscar Horton 3. Mike Stram, Robyn Huber 4. Frank Myles, Heather Shaw 5. Frank Cuteri, Keith Sedita, Tony Lazzara 6. Maryann Massolino, Tracy Mills 34 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

The Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum of Naples will be a vibrant, educationally dynamic 30,000-square-foot museum full of exhibits and programs that will encourage exploration, discovery and play for children and families in a safe, imaginative and interactive environment. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Wonders of Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museumsâ&#x20AC;? is our ďŹ rst traveling exhibit, currently touring the state of Florida. This interactive exhibit features a scale model of our Banyan Tree climber, highlights from our global mask collection, and more! The exhibit will be traveling to the following location:

GREAT EXPLORATIONS CHILDRENâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MUSEUM OCTOBER 17, 2009 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; NOVEMBER 15, 2009 1925 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704 (www.greatex.org) 727-821-8992

If you would like to host this exhibit at your museum, please call 239-514-0084 or email jsabo@cmon.org.

23 9-514-008 4

n at w w w.c m o Visit our website

.org

www.paradisecoast.com A COOPERATIVE EFFORT FUNDED BY THE COLLIER COUNTY TOURIST DEVELOPMENT TAX. This project is sponsored in part by the State of Florida through the Florida Division of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Arts Council.

ÂŽ

conďŹ dence

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Advertisers who want to place their print ads in a quality publication ask the question: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Is your circulation audited?â&#x20AC;? Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re very proud to answer â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes.â&#x20AC;? We are a member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations because we share ABCâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s belief that circulation audits are an essential assurance of value. ABC is the premier circulation auditing organization in the world, and has been since 1914. Each year, ABC auditors test and verify that our circulation ďŹ gures are facts, not claims. An ABC audit is the sign of a sound investment for advertisers.

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HOT

20 U N D ER 4 0

By Stephen Brown

Meet the next generation of Bay area movers and shakers

THE ICEMAN

Mattias Öhlund, 33

TBI would like to thank the crew of Daytime and the Riverbank Studio Syndications, the USF Athletic department, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Raymond James Stadium.

As one of the newest members of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Mattias Öhlund is bringing a new level of determination, and sometimes aggression, to the back-ice as the high-powered defenseman takes to the rink. Öhlund’s career started in Sweden, wearing the jersey for his national team in the World Championships in 1997, and quickly followed by the birth of a NHL career with the Vancouver Canucks in 1997. As a three-time Olympian, Öhlund helped lead the Swedish team to gold in the 2006 Winter Olympic games in Turin, Italy. Signing Öhlund during the off-season, the Lightning and the rest of the Bay hope this is the season the Bolts again lift Lord Stanley’s Cup. Photographed by Robert Adamo Makeup: Jodi Groom, Bobbi Brown—Saks Fifth Avenue Elie Tahari jacket, Saks Fifth Avenue november 2009 37

The Personality Lindsay MacDonald, 33

For Tampa resident and Daytime co-host Lindsay MacDonald, love for television came at an early age. Starting her career as an intern while in high school at the Chicago PBS station WTTW, MacDonald’s step from behind the camera came in 1998 as a cast member on MTV’s The Real World Seattle season. Now a member of the nationally syndicated lifestyle and entertainment program Daytime, MacDonald is once again melting the hearts of audiences across the country with her spunky, infectious attitude. “I love the adventures, from experiencing them first hand to hearing about someone else speak about theirs,” says MacDonald. “That’s my favorite part of the job.” Her latest adventure: climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in Tanzania. Photographed by Robert Adamo

Makeup: Jodi Groom, Bobbi Brown—Saks Fifth Avenue 38 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

The Commish Kevin Beckner, 38

Grassroots, door-to-door campaigning mixed with a well-driven, tech-savvy advertising operation helped propel Kevin Beckner to the Hillsborough County commission seat last November. The first openly gay politician in Hillsborough County, Beckner worked as a police officer while attending Indiana University, so he has a unique perspective on how local government affects citizens. Now a financial planner, Beckner is calling on his personal and professional experiences to help guide him through his public service career. With a goal of making Hillsborough County a greater place to live, Beckner strives to make a difference with a commitment to public safety and fiscal responsibility. He is definitely one to watch in the Bay area political arena. Photographed by Mark Wemple

november 2009 39

The Thespian Crystal Hunt, 24

For Crystal Hunt, acting was always a passion. Best known for her role as Lizzie Spaulding on the daytime soap opera Guiding Light, the Clearwater native has since made a name for herself for roles in the feature film Sydney White and the independent film Brooklyn to Manhattan. Huntâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s newest character, Stacy Morasco, on the daytime drama One Life to Live, has audiences riveted with her on-screen exploits. But donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t let the looks fool you. Under this feminine mystique, Hunt is a skilled helicopter pilot and an avid drag racer, showing that her adventurous spirit goes far beyond that of the stage. Photographed by Mark Wemple november 2009 41

THE SOLOIST Jazz flows through Eric Darius’ veins. After an epiphany at the age of nine while attending church, he knew the saxophone was the instrument for him. Sixteen years and four albums later, Darius is well on his way to being one of the top jazz saxophonists burning up the scene today. Darius began writing his own music at the age of 13, and his third album, Just Getting Started, debuted in the Top 10 of Billboard’s Contemporary Jazz chart, where it remained for nine consecutive weeks. He remarks that the rhythm and traditions of Tampa drive the impulse for his new sound: “I pay attention to what’s on the radio and at the clubs; it gives me inspiration.” 42 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

BLUENOTE RECORDS

Eric Darius, 25

The Team Builder Andrew Nestor, 26

With the echoes of a bygone era of Rowdies soccer softly drifting into memory, Andrew Nestor fought against the dying of the light. As president and CEO of the Tampa Bay Rowdies, Nestor once again brings professional soccer back to the fans of Tampa Bay. As a member of the United Soccer Leagues, First Division, the Rowdiesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; season kicks off in April, but murmurs of the return of the beautiful game already have the Bay abuzz. Nestor, part-time Tampa resident and president and managing partner of Curbstone Group and TBR Holdings, says the goal of the Rowdies is to build a team the community can be proud of. Photographed by Mark Wemple

november 2009 43

The Cigar Heiress Liana Fuente, 29

Tampa Bay is synonymous with cigars, and none are as recognizable as Arturo Fuente. Continuing the cigar heritage of this multigenerational business, Liana Fuente is following in her father and grandfather’s footsteps. “I grew up with cigars my whole life,” Fuente says. “It’s a passion, a culture.” Learning the business from her family has taken her on a journey from seed to smoke, familiarizing herself with every step in the cigar- making process (she can even roll them). With a fresh perspective and new ideas, Fuente has become heavily involved with the Arturo Fuente brand, creating new and original products outside of the typical line of cigar products. She’s branching into new outlets like leather, custom furniture for Boeing aircrafts, yachts and high-end recreational vehicles, and even Christmas ornaments and a line of fine china due to hit the market late next spring. “My father and grandfather have both set benchmarks that seem to get higher and higher,” she says. “I definitely have some very big shoes to fill.” Photographed by Robert Adamo Makeup: Jodi Groom, Bobbi Brown— Saks Fifth Avenue Photo illustration: Diana Ramírez

november 2009 45

The Gridiron Gladiator

Kellen Winslow Jr., 26 Kellen Winslow Jr. knows a thing or two about football. The football gene surely is dominant; he is the son of the Hall of Fame tight end Kellen Winslow Sr. The younger Winslow joined the Buccaneers this season as one of the highest ranked tight ends in the league, giving them a much needed offensive boost. Originally drafted sixth overall in 2004 by the Cleveland Browns, Winslow made a name for himself by setting a record for receiving yards (1,106). He has not only embraced the Bay as a place to play, but also as a community to impact. The Kellen Winslow Jr. Foundation already has made its presence known by hosting a youth football camp this past June for the Tampa Boys and Girls Club. Photographed by Matt May 46 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

The Chocolatier David Miller, 28

For some, the art of cooking is a lost cause; for others, it is an art form. Such is the case with Chef David Miller of Clearwater, a classically trained chef from the prestigious Culinary Institute of America, the International School of Confectionary Sugars and the Notter School of Pastry Arts. Miller’s two Clearwater restaurants, Savant Fine Dining and Cities Restaurant, have been churning out some of the most delectable dishes the Bay has to offer. Miller, who also owns Antilia on Scrub Island in the British Virgin Islands, takes an inventive approach to cooking, seeing each plate as his canvas. “When you are able to properly manipulate textures, flavors, temperatures and color pigments, what is not to love about cooking? Except maybe the dirty dishes.” Photographed by Mark Wemple november 2009 47

The Fashion Aficionada Ivanka Ska, 38

The fashion bug bit Ivanka Ska when she was a small child growing up in Poland. But with her move from Europe to New York City, where the infusion of art and fashion is so vivid, inspiration struck instantly, helping direct her path to the style scene. Now the undisputed fashion queen of St. Petersburg, Ska has taken what was a passion and made it a career. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I feel that the way we dress helps express our individuality; fashion is and always will be.â&#x20AC;? Her brainchild, The House of Ska, is the first fashion house of St. Petersburg and now is training models for the fashion industry, bringing the St. Petersburg style scene full circle. Photographed by Mark Wemple

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The contributor Lance Ponton, 31

Lance Ponton is a busy man on several fronts. On one hand, the commercial real estate appraiser is the epitome of heritage and tradition. A third generation Tampa resident and chief first sergeant of the Tampa Rough Riders, Ponton is proud of his roots and connection to the community. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The community is like my extended family. Just as my family has helped shape my life, so have the everyday people around me,â&#x20AC;? he says. But on the other hand, Ponton has taken the art of giving and given it a Gen X twist, as the current president of the charitable organization 13 Ugly Men, whose goal is to not only give back, but also to engage the young professionals in the Tampa area to become more active in their community. Photographed by Mark Wemple

november 2009 49

The Natural Evan Longoria, 24

When Evan Longoria takes the field, magic seems to happen. The Tampa Bay Raysâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; third baseman gives new reason to believe the national pastime is on the upswing. The 2008 American League Rookie of the Year was called to the bigs after being named MVP of the Cape Cod League in 2005 and Big West Co-Player of the Year in 2006. In his two seasons in Tampa, Longoria has been elected to two all-star games, lighting the field ablaze with clutch hitting and solid defense at third. There is little doubt why he has become a fan favorite, met with a steady, reverberating clang of cowbells every time he takes the field. Photographed by Mark Wemple

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november 2009 51

The MultiTasker Nikki DeBartolo, 34

Mother, designer, philanthropist: Nikki DeBartolo is a woman who wears many hats. As an executive vice president of DeBartolo Holdings and board member of the DeBartolo Family Foundation, she builds on the legacy of giving her father Edward DeBartolo Jr. and grandfather Edward Sr. started so long ago. The DeBartolo Family Foundation has helped raise awareness for some of the lesser known causes in the community while promoting a “pay it forward” system, spurring help from unlikely sources. DeBartolo also has a passion for design. Nicole Khristine Jewelry, her jewelry line with design partner Khristine Williams, is the manifestation of DeBartolo’s creative side, featuring edgy chic pieces geared toward the fashionista set. Photographed by Robert Adamo Makeup: Jodi Groom, Bobbi Brown—Saks Fifth Avenue

The Ship Builder Rich Lazzara, 36

Building boats is Tampa native Rich Lazzaraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s business. The heritage of the Lazzara name is steeped in the sea, boosting more than five decades of involvement in the yachting industry. As vice president of Lazzara Yachts, Lazzara has helped grow what was largely considered a domestically focused business into an international powerhouse of the boating community, reaching nearly $100 million in sales annually. As the top builder of luxury yachts in America, Lazzara credits the entrepreneurial spirit instilled by his family for his success. He also helps to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs by sharing his insights and experiences on his blog, richlazzara.com. Photographed by Mark Wemple november 2009 53

The Life Saver

Marie Catherine Lee, 32 To some, the moniker “hero” is something only recognizable through comic books and movies. But for others, a hero is someone who has dedicated his life to the wellness of others. Marie Catherine Lee may be too modest to brandish the label of hero around on her doctor’s scrubs, but through her work as assistant member for the Don and Erika Wallace Comprehensive Breast Program at the Moffitt Cancer Center, Lee has helped change countless lives. As a surgeon, Lee, who is expecting her first child this month (a boy), specializes in the treatment of breast diseases, especially in young breast cancer patients and their unique issues, such as pregnancy, fertility and quality of life. Photographed by Mark Wemple

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The visionary Jason Jensen, 32

For St. Petersburg resident Jason Jensen, the goal is simple—“help define architecture for this generation in the Tampa Bay area.” Joining the firm Wannemacher Jensen Architects in 2002, he is certainly on target. Jensen won the H. Dean Rowe Award in 2009 for the Roberts Recreation Center in St. Petersburg (pictured), which is the most prestigious award for design excellence from the American Institute of Architects. His style and improvisation have been changing the way the community utilizes space. Inspired by the microclimate of the Bay, Jensen’s design process uses “improvisation to continually experiment and ask questions, using the basic rules and principles but merging them together in different ways.” Photographed by Mark Wemple

november 2009 55

The Beach Boys

Cory and Shea Lopez, 32 and 35 Professional surfers Cory (right) and Shea Lopez have been ripping up the surf since they were kids, pushing one another to the next level. Though the Gulf is not known for its waves, the Lopez boys made do, hitting the surf at their hometown break in Indian Rocks Beach or heading east to New Smyrna to catch the swell on the Atlantic. As professionals, the Lopez brothers have racked up an impressive résumé of wins and tournament appearances. As it stands, they are the only brothers in the sport to have both won a U.S. Open (Shea ’99, Cory ’03) as well as the only siblings to share three X Games gold medals in surfing. In 2009 Cory helped lead Team USA to its first gold medal in 13 years in the Billabong ISA World Games, which is the only official IOC (Olympic) recognized governing body of surfing. Cory also owns Nekton Surf Shop in Indian Rocks Beach, while Shea owns and operates the Shea Lopez Surf Camp out of New Smyrna. Photographed by Mark Wemple

november 2009 57

The Specialist Julian Exclusa, 39

Classically trained in theater, an ASID member, a onetime aspiring actor rubbing elbows with the Hollywood glitterati, and now a lifestyle consultant, Julian Exclusa is a bit of a renaissance man. Knowing what clients need, even if they themselves don’t, is perhaps why the star of Florida Builder Appliances currently is the number two sales consultant nationwide, not only designing kitchens but lifestyles. “Each project is a blank slate,” says Exclusa. “I pull on the subtleties of my clients and create for them environments that go beyond just a kitchen. My job is not done until the house is a home.” Photographed by Mark Wemple 58 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

The defender of Justice Ashley Moody, 34

For Judge Ashley Moody, law is a family affair. Her father, James S. Moody Jr., is currently a federal judge in Tampa, while her mother Carol is an attorney providing counsel for poor seniors through the Bay Area Legal Services. Her late grandfather, James Sr., served as a circuit judge and in the Florida state legislature. When appointed to the 13th Judicial Circuit in 2006 at the age of 31, Ashley Moody was the youngest judge elected in the state of Florida. Now assigned to the Unified Family Court, Juvenile Delinquency division, Moody presides over criminal cases involving children, which often is polarizing and a point of contention in social theory. She gave birth to her first child in September. Photographed by Mark Wemple november 2009 59

Smokin’ Good Cuban cigars are synonymous with Ybor City, but Tampa Bay’s love affair with sophisticated smoking has spread all across the region. Chances are there’s a great cigar lounge in your neighborhood. BY GINGER WARDER

60 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

In 1885, Don Vicente Martinez Ybor brought his Cuban cigar manufacturing business to Tampa Bay. Little did he know that a city would be named after him, one that would be proclaimed the cigar capital of the world. By 1929, the Ybor factories were producing more than 500 million cigars, shipping and selling them all over the globe. Although the cigar industry gradually declined during the twentieth century, Ybor and his talented Hispanic craftsmen are still an integral part of our history. What makes a great cigar bar? Hand-rolling, an eclectic and exclusive selection, a walk-in humidor, good ventilation, a large selection of wines, cognacs, beers and a convivial atmosphere are important to cigar aficionados. Today, master tabaqueros still NOVEMBER 2009 61

BRUT PHOTOGRAPHY

Cigars are hand rolled at The Latin Quarter House of Cigars, St. Pete Beach.

hand-roll cigars in our quirky Latin quarter, and Bay area residents have more than a dozen fine cigar lounges and smoke shops to enjoy the fruits of their labor. Where else to start our search for the best cigar bars in Tampa Bay than in their Ybor City birthplace? The King Corona Café and Bar on 7th Avenue (kingcoro nacigars.com) is owned by a fifth-generation cigar family who know every facet of the business from the leaf BlueSmoke Cigar Bar, Clearwater up. Featuring handmade cigars from Ybor City and around the world, as well as their own King Corona brand, the café features an upscale Cuban coffee bar with free Internet, authentic Cuban and Latin American music, a vibrant patio, and a unique gift shop that sells everything from cigar molds and smokes to Cuban Guayaberas and Panama hats. Since the café serves breakfast, sandwiches, tapas, and beer and wine, it’s a regular meeting spot from morning ’til night for Ybor residents and regulars. The café stocks a line of flavored cigars for the ladies, and there’s even an adjoining barbershop for busy execu62 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

tives who need a haircut with their morning café con leche. This is the Cuban version of Cheers, a social mecca well worth a visit whether you smoke or not. Located in Centro Ybor, Stogie Castillo’s Cigar Lounge & Factory (stogiecastillos.com) is a relative newcomer to the Ybor cigar scene, opening just under four years ago. Owner Ivan Castillo turned his avocation into his vocation when he opened this wine bar that features hand-rolled cigars from Central and South America. The banker-turned-bar-owner studied with master rollers for several months to come up with his own unique blends like the Robusto Suave, a smooth blend of Dominican and Honduran tobaccos. This customer favorite is touted as being “Stogielicious!” A favorite of Bay area businessmen who love the free WiFi and waterside location, LIT Premium Cigar Lounge (litcigarlounge.com) in Channelside has a full liquor bar, state-of-the-art ventilation system, comfy couches and a plethora of plasma televisions. Patrons can unwind with a cocktail and select their smoke of choice from hundreds of premium cigars in the walkin humidor. Stored at a 70-degree temperature and 70percent humidity, LIT’s selection includes top brands from around the world, as well as a full line of smoking accessories. If you loved Bern’s upstairs or the old Café Cigar Bar at the Columbia, you’ll feel right at home here.

The cigar cultures and traditions of Puerto Rico and Cuba come together with a modern twist at Latin Quarter House of Cigars (lqhouseofcigars.com) on St. Pete Beach. Master Blender Ramon Luis “Willie” Martinez Santaliz uses his Puerto Rican expertise to create exotic mini-vintages and custom blends, while Master Roller Addit Bruto calls on his Cuban heritage for its hand-rolling techniques. Using only superior grades of tobacco and authentic, traditional techniques, the two experts have the Bay area buzzing about their microfactory with its Spanish cedar walk-in humidor. Voted Tampa Bay’s Best Cigar Bar in 2009 by the duPont Registry, the Latin Quarter House of Cigars and its fusion of past and present creates not only great smokes, but also a casually elegant atmosphere with its streamlined bar and billiards tables, well-stocked humidor, and its excellent selection of everything from legends to limited blends. Blue Smoke Cigar Bar (bluesmokecigarbar.com) in Clearwater specializes in hand-rolled premium cigars from the Dominican Republic, Honduras and Nicaragua, perfect companions for their large selection of imported beers and microbrews. This casual and clubby lounge has a walk-in humidor packed with popular cigars from Cuesta Rey and Cohiba to Arturo Fuente and Macanudo, and their new wine bar offers a large list of fine wines and Champagnes. ◆

BlueSmoke Cigar Bar, Clearwater

King Corona Café and Bar, Ybor City

WHERE THERE’S SMOKE: MORE GREAT PLACES TO LIGHT UP Upscale island retreat: Kuba Cigars,

lockers and a private series of hand-rolled

Insider favorite: Tampa Humidor Liana

Davis Island This father-and-son-owned

cigars, including 100-percent long-leaf

Fuente, of Tampa’s renowned Cigar Family,

lounge offers live music on weekends,

rolled on site. Hit happy hour in the Ha-

recommends this lounge and superstore,

more than 40 fine wines and ports, and an

vana Room on weekdays or check out the

located near USF. It features the larg-

extensive selection of hand-rolled cigars.

Last Thursday Smoker and other special

est walk-in humidor in the Southeast, a

kubacigars.com

events. centralcigars.com

2,500-square-foot smoking lounge and a huge selection of her family’s finest cigars. tampahumidor.com

Sporty smoking: Cuesta-Rey Cigar Bar at

Smoke shop ’til you drop: Edward’s

Tropicana Field This intimate, leather-filled

Pipe and Tobacco For almost 50 years,

lounge is the only cigar bar located in a ma-

Edward’s has been the go-to shop for all

Smoke on the water: Casa Havana

jor league baseball stadium, and features

kinds of tobacco and smoking accessories,

Dance the night away and savor the flavor

a signature Rays cigar that’s handmade in

with a knowledgeable staff that has more

of the past at this club in John’s Pass

the Dominican Republic.

than 100 years of expertise in the industry.

Village, highly recommended by in-the-

Featuring a coffee bar and lounge, as well

know concierges up and down the beach.

Downtown delight: Central Cigars Ha-

as a patio, and stellar customer service,

This salsa and merengue club has its

vana Room The choice of St. Petersburg

this elder statesmen of cigar bars is an

own rollers on hand and a signature Casa

urban dwellers, Central Cigars offers private

industry anchor. edwardstampa.com

Havana cigar.

NOVEMBER 2009 63

MOTION PICTURES Fallâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fluid, decadent looks are fit for a screen siren. photography by robert adamo Jewelry provided by Provident Jewelry, Naples, providentjewelry.com 64 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

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DISH | A TRUE ORIGINAL

A LOCAL JEWELER BREWS UP SOMETHING NEW.

For those familiar with long-time Pass-a-Grille resident Evander Preston, the word “crafty” may come to mind. His strikingly original, contemporary gold designs have attracted the rich, the famous and the merely curious; his larger-than-life local presence is nearly legendary. Now Preston has created his own craft brew, Evander Beer. Dubbed the “Coolest Beer on the Planet,” the new lager—custom brewed by Florida Beer Company in Melbourne—has been sighted in such area hotspots as Z Grille and Salt Rock Grill. Described as light, implied as refreshing, Evander Beer may well be the one thing you can never get too much of at the beach—other than the sun, of course. evanderland.com —Julie W. Martin

NOVEMBER 2009 73

savor { libations

BITTER SWEET SPICE UP THE NIGHT—AND YOUR DRINK—WITH A FLAVORFUL AND EXOTIC SPLASH OF BITTERS. BY MARK SPIVAK

Flavored bitters from The Bitter Truth

74 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

The booming cocktail culture has rediscovered and reinvented bitters. Non-potable bitters began as patent medicines, the most notable example being Angostura. This concoction of roots, bark and herbs was perfected in 1824 by a German doctor stationed in Angostura, Venezuela, and was originally intended to suppress fevers and nausea. It found its most noble function as the foundation and coloring for Pink Gin. Shortly afterward, Peychaud’s Bitters was invented by a native of Haiti who had settled in New Orleans. Created from a base of gentian, it became the foundation for the Sazerac cocktail, and was frequently used in Manhattans, Old Fashioneds and Whiskey Sours. Prior to Prohibition, in fact, it was hard to find a cocktail that did not contain bitters. In their quest to bring back the classic cocktails, modern mixologists have stocked

their bars with a range of exotic, small-batch bitters. The Fee Brothers of Rochester, New York, make a complete product line (Peach, Mint, Lemon, Grapefruit, Orange and Whiskey Barrel Aged Bitters). The Bitter Truth, a German company best known for Celery, Lemon and Orange bitters, has recently agreed to distribute the products of Bittermens, an artisanal brand owned by Avery and Janet Glasser; as a result, Bittermens Grapefruit and Xocolatl Mole will soon be available on the open market. Regan’s Orange Bitters, made by cocktail guru Gary Regan, also is coming into general distribution. Potable bitters have become the aperitif of choice in the United States, and have inspired bartenders in the country’s leading markets. It all began with Campari, which was invented by Gaspare Campari, a cutting-edge Milan mixologist of the 1860s. The closely guarded formula is a main ingre-

The Fee Brothers make a complete product line of flavored bitters.

parts of the United States are rapidly catching up. Jackson Cannon, bar manager at Eastern Standard Kitchen & Drinks in Boston, used 168 cases at his bar last year, and most popular urban lounges are not far behind. Some drink it mixed with Coca-Cola, some consume it straight for its medicinal and energizing qualities, and some even enjoy it without their grandmother present. ◆ dient of both the Negroni and Americano, and is frequently enjoyed with club soda. While Americans tend to think of Amaro as a brand name, it’s actually an entire category of Italian bitters in a range of styles and flavors. Averna, first concocted by Salvatore Averna in 1868, has been described as sweet and thick, with a slight herbal bitterness. Amaro Montenegro is a specialty of Bologna, produced from 40 different herbs and popular as an after coffee drink. In fact, there are several dozen regional variations of Amaro in Italy, including Punt e Mes, a popular dark brown vermouth with a bitter sweetness. Antonio Benedetto Carpano is generally credited for inventing vermouth in 1786, using the technique of infusing herbs and spices into wine. Today, the same parent company that makes Punt e Mes also produces Carpano Antica Formula, sometimes called the world’s best red vermouth. Sweeter and more full-bodied than Punt e Mes, Carpano Antica has flavors of vanilla, orange rind, dried apricot and baking spices. While it can be used to make a terrific Negroni, purists prefer to drink it on the rocks. Currently, the hottest bitter on the market is Fernet. In its various forms, this concoction of herbs and spices has become an underground sensation among bartenders, sommeliers and restaurant personnel in general. The best-known version is FernetBranca; if you grew up in an Italian family, it’s likely that your grandmother gave you this black, bitter liquid when you had an upset stomach. Consumption of Fernet-Branca probably is highest in Argentina, where reportedly 3 million cases are consumed each year, but

Kitchens of Italy & The Pacific Rim

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717SOUTH.COM NOVEMBER 2009 75

savor { taste

MAMMA PIA AUTHENTIC HOMEMADE ITALIAN FAVORITES ARE THE ORDER OF THE DAY AT THIS CHARMING TRATTORIA. BY JULIE MARTIN

MARK SICKLES

The Sea Scallops with Blue Crab Raviloi is a popular special at Pia’s Trattoria.

Almond Crosata with Nutella Gelato

76 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

Pia’s Trattoria is just what you would expect from a restaurant in the artisan community of Gulfport—quirky, diverse and original. And ultimately, divine. The cheery goldenrod-colored exterior of this Italian eatery seems plucked from the pages of food and wine travelogues. In an urban area so saturated with cemented sameness, one glance at the charming storefront—complete with cascading potted plants and the occasional dog resting at his master’s feet, can’t help but make a passerby pause and sigh with longing. When Pia opened her intimate trattoria in 2006, both she and husband Tom Goff never imagined the tidal pull her authentic Italian cuisine would create in

the Tampa Bay area. According to Goff, (who also is her business partner), the original plan was to keep the menu simple, offering fresh, Southern Italian classics in a friendly neighborhood setting. “Pia did it for the love of it, meeting the people, making the food,” Goff says. But, as word got out, the sidewalk on Beach Boulevard was clogged with customers queued up on a Saturday night—sometimes in line for a two-hour wait. Goff was both equally stunned and happily surprised. “We went from the idea of having people sit there and enjoy, but we never thought so many people would show up.” Now Goff doesn’t need to seek therapy for turning away hungry patrons on a rainy night. Beginning late this fall, the original Pia’s will converge with a former office building next door, offering an additional 2,500 square feet to the current 1,600-foot configuration, with adjoining outdoor patio seating. No doubt this will please the regulars, including a fair amount of local Italians who depend on Pia to prepare their favorite homeland specialties. Once inside this provincial paradise, it’s outside again, this time via the back door, which opens onto a European-style courtyard, most of which is covered with a thatched roof, surrounded by lush vegeta-

tion. French country tablecloths drape rustic tables, each with its own candlelit lantern. Tiki torches combine with tropical sea breezes and gentle ceiling fans suggesting a Havana café, while the late-evening patina favors New Orleans’ Garden District. There’s an eclectic camaraderie of both celebration and romance, which bodes well while waiting for the entrées to arrive— which can take a while since Pia cooks everything from scratch (“She doesn’t even use a single can of tomato sauce,” notes Goff). Enjoyable first courses include the antipasti platter of sugared grapes with

(think Thanksgiving dressing)—made from ciabatta and mushrooms. The combination of the fresh fish with the earthy starch was like a savory love story between air and water. An unusual pairing that worked. Popular favorites flourish here, too, and never leave home. Pia’s meat-filled Bolognese sauce offered with a choice of five different pastas, or the made-that-day la-

sagna, all are part of the repertoire of recipes Pia remembers from growing up with her grandmother in Italy. For them, and for others who appreciate Pia’s passion for food, the seat is only part of the reward. As the old Italian saying goes, “A tavola non si invecchia.” You don’t age while seated for a meal. 3054 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport (727327-2190, piastrattoria.com) ◆

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slices of imported Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, with grilled garlic ciabatta bread; or the Salmone di Capri, smoked salmon with a horseradish cream cheese spread, sprinkled with lemon pesto. The Insalata Pia features her signature salsa verde dressing, concocted with an profusion of fresh pesto mixed with balsamic vinegar and olive oil, atop arugula, with Gorgonzola cheese and tomatoes. Every evening, Pia rolls out the everchanging specials. We were fortunate to try the salmon entrée—a thick fillet lined with sage leaves, wrapped in prosciutto and served on top of a bread pudding

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NOVEMBER 2009 77

savor { dining out A selective guide to restaurants around the bay, encapsulated from previous reviews by TBI dining editor Julie W. Martin.

NORTH TAMPA MICHAEL’S GRILL Irish Chef Michael Reilly prepares authentic Italian and French cuisine in a pleasant neighborhood pub atmosphere where regulars act like good friends. 11720 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., 813-964-8334 TOASTED PHEASANT Peter Leonavicius opened this sweet bistro in Carrollwood in 2008. Classic French with a twist; menu items now include occasional wild game tastings, a variety fresh

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seafood, and yes, roasted pheasant. 14445 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., 813-265-6700 VIZCAYA RESTAURANTE & TAPAS BAR Chef and owner Felix Piedra offers more than 28 tapas and authentic Basque cuisine in this garden-bright eatery. 10905 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., 813-968-7400 BELLEAIR BLUFFS LE BOUCHON BISTRO A French bistro in the truest sense, its casual menu satisfies a range of appetites with a level of sophistication reserved for well-traveled palates. 796 Indian

Rocks Road, 727-585-9777

fresh idea for the Holidays

Enjoy the gift of togetherness that brings all the warmth

MARLIN DARLIN’ An abundance of fresh seafood catches, daily ceviche and boutique

and joy of the season around our festive table.

oysters combined with creative sides of fruit salsas, island rice and coconut spinach make a breezy tropical experience. 2819 W. Bay Drive, 727-584-1700

There’s a party in our kitchen and you’re invited! (813) 835-7300 | www.ChefsOnTheLoose.net

78 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

PALM HARBOR MYSTIC FISH Owners Eugen Fuhrmann and Chef Doug Bebell are true shaman for fresh

fish. But meat lovers won’t feel like a fish out of water when ordering entrées. 3253 Tampa Road, 727-771-1800 CHEF DAVID MILLER’S THIRD RESTAURANT

ST. PETERSBURG BELLA BRAVA Bella Brava is all about new world Italian cuisine. With alfresco dining on two levels, it’s a great spot to enjoy one of the

Bringing you a different city taste each month.

restaurant’s signature martinis. 515 Central Ave., 727-895-5515 CAFÉ ALMA While focusing on “heart healthy” ingredients from Greece, Italy and Morocco, Café Alma still offers ample opportunities to

Cities Receives Four Stars, 2009 - St Petersburg Times

indulge in baskets of buttery, curried cranberry bread and aromatic homemade soups. 260 1st Ave. S., 727-502-5002 PACIFIC WAVE Far from the cookie-cutter menu of many Asian restaurants, this Zagatrated eatery creates gourmet dishes with a unique blend of fresh ingredients paired with

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innovative sauces. 211 2nd Street S., 727822-5235 PARKSHORE GRILL a steady clientele migrates toward Executive Chef Tyson Grant’s well-crafted menu of imaginative American cuisine. Ample variety and substance combined with heirloom vegetables and fresh herbs bestow power to every plate. 300 Beach Drive N.E., 727-896-3463

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PRIMI URBAN CAFÉ This cozy gem of an Italian-style restaurant should not be overlooked when considering Italian cuisine. South African owner and chef Arno von Waltsleban adds global pizzazz in the form of Malaysian curry to his very own recco sauce. 27 4th Street N., 727-895-4909 SAFETY HARBOR GREEN SPRINGS BISTRO This 1930s bungalow-turned-eatery is a charming spot to sample Chef Paul Kapsalis’ regional classics

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from Louisiana and the Carolinas, including the Sausage, Shrimp and Grits, and homemade Black and Blue Berry Cobbler. 156 4th Ave. N., 727-669-6762 DUNEDIN THE BLACK PEARL Here, timeless culinary favorites such as escargot and duck liver pâté

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MALIOâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S PRIME STEAKHOUSE Malioâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prime organic steaks are perfectly seared, then topped with a signature pat of butter and served with a lemon wedge. 400 N. Ashley Drive, 813-223-7746 SOUTH TAMPA 717 SOUTH This dual-minded restaurant serves Italian and Pacific Rim dishes with

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equal flourish in a clubby art deco atmosphere. Think seafood manicotti and pupu platters for the best of both worlds. 717 S. Howard Ave., 813-250-1661 BERNâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S STEAK HOUSE An unmistakable landmark for locals, and a beacon of gastronomy for celebrities, sport stars and governors, Bernâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s continues its â&#x20AC;&#x153;old schoolâ&#x20AC;? reputation for serving the best steak in America. 1208 S.

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Latin-meets-Asian fare fits in nicely. 2702 W.

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creates an aura of sublime Mediterranean sah090063-0209

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Kennedy Blvd., 813-878-2700 BYBLOS CAFĂ&#x2030; A bronzed and yellow interior pleasures, including savory Greek-influenced selections of marinated beef, chicken, lamb and seafood. 2832 S. MacDill Ave., 813-805-7977

WATER SUSHI RESTAURANT Water is all about beauty: Their “water bowl” is an edible art form of fresh seafood, exotic vegetables and succulent fruit. 1015 S. Howard Ave., 813-514-4426 THE WINE EXCHANGE The Wine Exchange now has extensive kid and dog-friendly patio dining featuring signature menu items like the phyllo-wrapped baked brie with brown sugar and almonds, and the grape pecan chicken salad. 1609 Snow Ave., 813-254-9463

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BOIZÃO STEAKHOUSE Its proposition of an all-you-can-eat dinner includes unlimited visits to the salad bar for fresh vegetables, aged cheeses and rustic breads, plus 14 cuts of meat, personally carved tableside by handsome Brazilian gauchos. 4606 Boy Scout Blvd., 813-286-7100 CAPITAL GRILLE Both lunch and dinner menus offer generous allowances to indulge in dishes typical to restaurants of this genre, including dry-aged steaks, veal and lamb chops, and lobster tails measured by the pound. 2223 N. WestShore Blvd., 813-830-9433 PELAGIA TRATTORIA Pelagia Trattoria swoons diners with its modern Italian cuisine under the

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guidance of Executive Chef Fabrizio Shcenardi, whose genuine accent is filled with passion for creating one of the area’s most coveted menus. 4200 Jim Walter Blvd., 813-313-3235 YBOR CITY BERNINI OF YBOR Few restaurants epitomize

Market highs now offer more money for gold, platinum, diamonds, quality brand watches and accessories. From single items to entire estates, our Professional Buyer offers top dollar. We also offer discreet collateral loans from $500 to $5 million. Stop by for your free appraisal today.

the big-city experience as well as Bernini, where superb service and classic Italian cuisine are cranked out in an almost frenetic

428 INDIAN ROCKS RD. • BELLEAIR BLUFFS, FL 33770 • 727-585-5700 WWW.CAPPELLOFINEJEWELRY.COM

atmosphere. Try celebrity favorites: Tony’s Baby Calamari or the Pescatore Fra Diavolo. 1702 E. 7th Ave., 813-248-0099

NOVEMBER 2009 81

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SEMINOLE HEIGHTS BUNGALOW BISTRO Eclectic menu offerings ranging from American cheeseburgers and salmon piccatta to a savory chicken roulade stuffed with goat cheese, sun-dried tomatoes and spinach with a beurre blanc sauce. 5137 N. Florida Ave., 813-237-2000 ST. PETE BEACH DON CESAR’S MARITANA GRILLE Cheese presentations have become a rarity in Florida, and the Maritana is one of the few restaurants offering some unique choices. 3400 Gulf Blvd., 727-360-1881

Dr. Mona Henri 727.894.0500 2300 4th Street North St. Petersburg, FL 33704 www.VIP4MyEyes.com GIFT CERTIFICATES MAKE A GREAT GIFT

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FETISHES Owner Bruce Caplan has created an intimate setting offering a well-crafted range of epicurean treats. A consecutive four-time recipient of Wine Spectator magazine’s Award of Excellence. 6690 Gulf Blvd., 727-363-3700

Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation®

SNAPPER’S SEA GRILL Savvy metro diners

tightens - supports - increases sensation

will appreciate the fusion-flair cuisine, while the most sentimental Florida visitor will be gratified

Laser Reduction Labiaplasty

with seemingly greaseless battered shrimp,

designer vaginoplasty® sculpts & debulks

oysters, haddock and clam strips. 5895 Gulf

G-shot®

Blvd., 727-367-3350

g-spot enhancement

CLEARWATER BEACH

Visit our website for a full list of Gynecologic Services www.VisionaryCentreForWomen.com

Dr. Jennifer S. Hayes MEDICAL DIRECTOR

Board Certiﬁed in Gynecology & Gynecologic Surgery

CARETTA ON THE GULF Ensconced inside the opulent Sandpearl Resort, Caretta on the Gulf

no doubt sings a siren song to both visitors and locals alike looking for the chance to feast

isionary

Mandalay Ave., 727-441-2425

Centre forWomen

(727) 540-0414

Associate of the Laser Vaginal Rejuvenation Institute of America

CONVENIENTLY LOCATED BEHIND THE VENUE AT 2695 ULMERTON RD.  IN FEATHER SOUND 82 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

on seasonally inspired gifts from the sea. 500

KIKU JAPANESE RESTAURANT Forget allyou-can eat buffets of pre-cooked tempura and teriyaki dishes. Chef Daniel Chong’s innovative

offerings promise a refreshing mind-changing authenticity. 483 Mandalay Ave., 727-461-2633 RUSTY’S BISTRO Much more than a respectable-only-on-vacation eatery, thanks in part to Executive Chef John Harris, who diligently works to create some of the most sophisticated eating in the Bay area. 1160 Gulf Blvd., 727-593-6000 ext. 7001 TIERRA VERDE CRAZY CONCH CAFÉ Chef and owner Michael Peel’s menu is dedicated to culinary influences found along the Gulf coast. 1110 Pinellas Bayway S., 727-865-0633 CLEARWATER CAFÉ PONTE Chef Chris Ponte’s Euro/Asianinfluenced cuisine has captured the attention of gourmets and mesmerized food critics. Sit back and watch efficient waiters deliver some of the Bay area’s most elegant entrées from the open kitchen. 13505 Icot Blvd., Suite 214, 727-538-5768

makes it a sure miss for casual passersby, but owner and Executive Chef David Miller likes it that way, with a seven-course fixed price menu and only one nightly dinner seating, 2551 Drew Street, 727-421-9975 TÍO PEPE RESTAURANT The restaurant’s rich heritage and ties to the Iberian Peninsula extend to the wine cellar, where more than 800 bottles are stored. 2930 Gulf to Bay Blvd., 727-799-3082 GULFPORT BACKFIN BLUE CAFÉ If there were an award for best comfort food served in a time warp, Backfin Blue Café, would receive highest honors. Despite its namesake, diners can expect gourmet meat loaf and hefty prime rib and still get their fill of sweet jumbo crab cakes. 2913 Beach Blvd. S., 727-343-2583 LARGO CAFÉ LARGO Chef Dominique Christini has captured the hearts of area gourmands who know and appreciate fine French haute cuisine prepared the old-fashioned way. 12551 Indian Rocks Road, 727-596-6282 ◆

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP

SAVANT FINE DINING Its cubbyhole location

Tampa Bay Illustrated Statement of Ownership, Management, and Circulation, PS form 3526-R. 1. Publication Title: TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED. 2. Publication number: 1545-7559. 3. Filing Date: 09/28/09. 4. Issue Frequency: Monthly except August, twice in November. 5. Number of issues published annually: 12. 6. Annual Subscription Price: $39.95. 7. Complete mailing address of known office of Publication: 1000 N Dixie Highway Ste C, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. 8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of the publisher: Palm Beach Media Group, 1000 N. Dixie Hwy., Ste C, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. 9. Full names and complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher, Editor, and Managing Editor: Publisher: Ronald J. Woods, Editor: Daphne Nikolopoulos, Managing Editor: Michelle Havich, all at: 1000 N Dixie Highway Ste C, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. 10. Owner: Palm Beach Media Group, Inc., Ronald J. Woods, 1000 N. Dixie Hwy., Ste C, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1% or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: (None). 12. Tax Status: (Does not apply). 13. Publication Title: TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED. 14. Issue date for Circulation Data Below: October 2009. 15. Extent and Nature of Circulation: Average number of copies each issue during preceding 12 months; Actual number of copies of single issue published nearest to filing date October 2009 issue: 15a. Total number of copies (net press run) Average: 15,267. Actual: 15,000. 15b1. Paid/Requested Outside-County Mail Subscriptions: Average: 8,817. Actual: 8,852. 15b2. (none) (none) 15b3. Sales through dealers and carriers, street venders, counter sales, and other non-USPS paid distribution: Average: 180. Actual: 157. 15c. Total Paid and/or Requested Circulation (sum of 15b (1)(2)(3)(4): Average: 8,997. Actual: 9,009. 15d1. Nonrequested Distribution by Mail (samples, complimentary and any other free): Average: 1,533. Actual: 1,420. 15d4. Nonrequested distribution outside the mail (carriers or other means): Average: 4,072. Actual: 3,815. 15e. Total Nonrequested Distribution (sum of 15d1 and 15d4): Average: 5,605. Actual: 5,235. 15f. Total distribution (sum of 15c and 15e): Average: 14,602. Actual: 14,244. 15g. Copies not distributed: Average: 664. Actual: 756. 15h. Total (sum of 15f and 15g): Average: 15,267. Actual: 15,000. 15i. Percent paid and/or requested Circulation (15c divided by 15f times 100): Average: 61.61%. Actual: 63.25%. 17. Signature: Todd Schmidt, Director of Operations, Palm Beach Media Group.

NOVEMBER 2009 83

SPECIAL PROMOTIONAL SECTION

AN EXCLUSIVE LOOK AT TOP RESTAURANTS IN THE TAMPA BAY AREA

RENAISSANCE VINOY

Celebrate like it’s 1925! Join us at Marchand’s Bar & Grill to commemorate the 1925 opening of the legendary Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club. Order from the specially designed Classic Dining Menu and enjoy a delightful three-course meal for just $19.25/person. Available seven nights a week, from 5:30pm to 7:00pm. 501 5th Avenue NE , St. Petersburg 727-894-1000

RESTAURANT HAPA

“A stellar Restuarant in an unexpected setting” Tampa Tribune. “In a land of strip malls a gracious fine dining establishment stands out” St. Pete Times. Join chefs Brett & Nina Gardiner for an intimate evening where classic technique married with global flavors create a truly memorable & elegant dining experince. 3970 Tampa Road, Oldsmar 813-749-8400, www.hapafinedining.com

VIAGGIO

Voted one of Florida’s Best Restaurants by Florida Trend, Viaggio’s tantalizing menu sets the standard for Signature Steaks, the Freshest Local Seafood, and International Tapas. Its contemporary yet intimate atmosphere, extensive wine selection, and reasonable prices all set the stage for an unforgettable evening. Located at the Venue: 2675 Ulmerton Rd, St. Petersburg 727-571-2222

design

SPACES |COME ON IN

STEPHANIE DAVIS

BOLD CORALS AND SWEEPING CURVES OFFER CHEERFUL GREETINGS IN THIS FOYER.

{

You only get one chance at a first impression, which is why a welcoming foyer is so important. Designer Pamela Iannacio of Addison & Company Interiors incorporated bright colors and an eclectic mixture of old-world charm and modern sensibility in this south Tampa home. “I wanted to rework what the home had to offer and update it while maintaining its original charm,” says Iannacio. “It is just so uplifting when you walk in the home.” Addison & Company Interiors LLC, Tampa (813-205-9445, adtrtampa@verizon.net)

NOVEMBER 2009 85

design { elements LIGHT IT UP LET THERE BE ALL VARIETIES OF LIGHT IN YOUR LIFE BY MICHELLE M. HAVICH

RAINBOW BRIGHT Simple and elegant, the Cellula Chandelier ($2,600) sparkles with exquisitely cut Swarovski crystal pendants. dwr.com

SEA URCHIN The Ooni pendant ($450$535) from LBL Lighting resembles a creature from the deep, with its glass point decoration hand-placed on an Italian handblown glass sphere. Light Bulbs Unlimited, Tampa (813-253-5775, lbllighting.com)

DOWN BY THE RIVER Bring some nature and a little luck into your home with Frederick Cooper’s Cambria lamp. Each stone in the base was selected from a remote riverbed and blessed by a shaman. Priced to the trade. PJ Newman, Tampa (813-286-9881, pjnewman.com, frederickcooper.com)

STAND TALL This hammered cast metal floor lamp ($1,150) by Jamie Young Co. has a unique hand-applied finish that mixes gold and silver leaf to create a platinum patina. Magnolia, Tampa (813-2543337, magnoliastyle. com, jamieyoung.com) PETITE ELEGANCE Swirling scrolls surround a jet black crystal sphere at the center of Schonbek’s Cappela lamp ($875). Ferguson Enterprises, Tampa (813-251-1690, schonbek.com)

86 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

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â&#x2DC;&#x2026;Ă&#x160; /Ă&#x160; ,/ / -Ă&#x160; 6 Ă&#x160;â&#x2DC;&#x2026; ÂŁĂ&#x201C;Â&#x2122;xĂ¤Ă&#x160;, Ă&#x160;/, Ă&#x160;, Â° / * Ă&#x160;â&#x2DC;&#x2026;Ă&#x160;nÂŁĂ&#x17D;Â°nÂŁ{Â°{Ă&#x201C;nĂ&#x201C; * * , << Â&#x2021; "1/ +1 Â° "

Large selection of elegant sterling silverware, plated ďŹ&#x201A;atware, crystal, china dinnerware & ďŹ ne decorative giftware. Fine sterling baby & wedding gifts also available. 1350 West Bay Drive â&#x20AC;˘ Largo, FL 33770 727.581.6827 â&#x20AC;˘ www.silverqueen.com

!NDREW (AMILTON #RAWFORD ,IQUID -ETAL C AND MOREÂ¨

Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Haute

Nicole Miller Sky Salvage Faith Connexions Bejeweled & many more!

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Whatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Haute

813-926-0003 9660 W Linebaugh Ave Tampa, FL 33626 BelanovaTampa@Gmail.com

scene

}

CULTURE | ABSTRACT AMALGAMATION CONCEPTUAL MOVEMENT TAKES FORM IN THESE IMPLIED LANDSCAPES.

French-born Vicky Colombet’s oil-on-canvas art leaves much to the imagination; her near-monochromatic paintings only hint at a landscape. But it’s her abstract tendency that has captured the attention of gallery owners around the world. Colombet’s artwork has been exhibited in more than 10 countries, and she’s had more than 25 solo exhibitions. The New York-based artist incorporates simple forms with a special technique to create the illusion of texture. “She’s a conceptual artist,” says Erika GreenbergSchneider, owner of Bleu Acier gallery. “She doesn’t use a brush. She gives a bird’s-eye view of a landscape.” Her paintings will be exhibited at Bleu Acier from November 6 through January 9. (813-272-9746, bleuacier.com) —Aminta Iriarte

NOVEMBER 2009 89

scene { calendar

NOVEMBER 2009 Tampa Junior League’s Holiday Gift Market, through Nov. 8, Florida State Fairgrounds, $5 (jltampa.org) 7 The Eye Ball, Lions Eye Institute, Ybor City, $150, $250 (lionseyeinstitute.org) “It’s a Jungle Out There,” Family Resources’ Great Chefs of Tampa Bay, 15 top local chefs, John & Cathy Long residence, Tierra Verde, $100 (family-resources.org) “Color Our World with Hope,” New Life Solutions gala, The Coliseum, St. Petersburg, $800 table of 10 (newlifesol.org) “Create Your Own Masterpiece,” Henry B. Plant Park, University of Tampa, $250, $350 VIP (tampamuseum.org)

Leonard Bernstein, Arnold Newman

“ARTISTS OF THE HAMPTONS: SELECTIONS FROM THE BENJAMIN AND JEAN GOLLAY COLLECTION,” WILL BE ON EXHIBIT AT THE LEEPA-RATTNER MUSEUM OF ART UNTIL NOVEMBER 8. ADMISSION IS $5.

8 Wine and Spirits Party, Diabetic Charitable Services and Ronde Barber host

GOINGS ON 1 “The Cabinet of Natural Curiosities,” exhibition, through Dec. 23, Dunedin Fine Art Center, free to the public

Boys and Girls Club Steak Dinner, Desert Grill at Busch Gardens, Tampa, $300, $500 per couple (bgctampafl.org)

“Florida Cattle Ranching: Five Centuries of Tradition,” exhibition, through Dec. 19, Tampa Bay History Center, $12

“Florida’s Living Heritage,” exhibition, through Jan. 10, Brooker Creek Preserve, Tarpon Springs, free to the public

Night of the Living Dead, play, through Nov. 8, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center’s Shimberg Playhouse, tickets start at $25

6 Girl Scouts: Dessert First Bash, cocktails, auctions and desserts, InterContinental Hotel, Tampa, $85 (gswcf.org)

“Tarpon Tales and Sport Fishing in Early Florida,” exhibition, through Dec. 27, The Henry Plant Museum, $5 5 American Cancer Society, luncheon recognizing distinguished donors, Tampa Yacht and Country Club, invitation only (cancer.org) 90 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

Mendelssohn’s Violin Concerto, Florida Orchestra, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, at the Mahaffey Theater at the Progress Energy Center Nov. 7, at Ruth Eckerd Hall on Nov. 8, tickets start at $22 “Moonlight Over the French Quarter,” Children’s Home Society’s Silver Coffee, Douglas residence, Belleair, $150 (chsfl.org)

COMEDIAN ELON GOLD WILL PERFORM AT THE TAMPA BAY PERFORMING ARTS CENTER’S JAEB THEATER NOVEMBER 19. TICKETS ARE $30 AND UP.

an evening with Bucs players, Circles Restaurant, Tampa, $100 (diabeticservice.org) 14 Confetti Celebration, gala, UACDC, Tampa, $180 (uacdconline.org) Jingle Jangle Jamboree, Ruth Eckerd Hall gala, Starkey Ranch, Odessa, $125 17 Ruth Eckerd Hall Harvesting for Scholarhips, benefits scholarship programs, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, $85 18 Steve Miller Band, concert, Ruth Eckerd Hall, $53 to $128 19 America’s Second Harvest’s Empty Bowl Hunger Luncheon, Lykes Gaslight Square Park, Tampa, $10 (a2htampabay.org)

Bad Dates, play, through Dec. 6, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center’s Shimberg Playhouse, $25 and up

28 Tampa Bay Spirits Festival, Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Country Club, $50, $60 VIP (polishedpalate.com)

20 This Wonderful Life, through Dec. 27, American Stage Theatre Company, St. Petersburg, $32 and up

30 On Eagles Wings, golf, dinner, benefiting the ALS Association, Avila Golf and Country Club, Tampa, $500 (alsafl.org)

21 Cointreau Chillounge Night, benefiting Friends of the Festival, Straub Park, St. Petersburg, $20, $75 VIP (chill oungenight.com)

VENUES

24 Wonderland: Alice’s New Musical Adventure, musical, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center’s Ferguson Hall, $39 and up

Avila Golf & Country Club, 943 Guisando de Avila, Tampa, 813-961-1770, avilagolf.com

American Stage Theatre Company, 163 3rd Street N., St. Petersburg, 727-823-7529, americanstage.org

27 Clearwater Marine Aquarium Dance on the Beach, Carlouel Yacht Club, $150 (cmaquarium.org)

Brooker Creek Preserve, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs, 727-934-2680, friendsofbrookercreekpreserve.org

Gulf Coast Pain Management Dedicated to Diagnosing and Treating People in Pain Pain Symptoms Treated Include: • • • •

Neck and Back Pain Headaches Shingles Diabetic Neuropathy

• • • •

Joint Pain Cancer Pain Whiplash Injury Spinal Stenosis

Finalist, Golden Stethoscope Award for Best Women’s Practice of Florida

FROM LEFT TO RIGHT Chris Wittmann, PA-C – Skillful techniques and a large loyal following deﬁne the actions of Chris Wittmann, Physicians Assistant. Chris is dedicated to his patient’s care and works closely with them every day with their recovery and pain management issues.

Lynne Carr Columbus, D. O. – A renown speaker and expert in her ﬁeld, Dr. Columbus has focused her experience and skill to build a practice dedicated to the successful diagnosis and treatment of pain and pain management.

Adrian B. Bethel, MD – With a research background dealing with the causes and treatment of chronic pain, Dr. Bethel incorporates extensive education and understanding into the care of his patients.

3890 Tampa Road Suite 308 • Palm Harbor, FL 34684 • (727) 789-0891 www.gulfcoastpain.com

NOVEMBER 2009 91

scene { calendar Busch Gardens, 10165 N. McKinley Dr., Tampa, 888-800-5447, buschgardens.com Carlouel Yacht Club, 1091 Eldorado Ave., Clearwater Beach, 727-446-9162, carlouel.org Circles, 19651 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 813-973-7703, circlesbistro.com The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-892-5202, stpete.org/coliseum Dunedin Fine Art Center, 1143 Michigan Blvd., 727-298-3322, dfac.org Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 Hwy. 301 N., Tampa, 813-621-7821, floridastatefair.com Henry Plant Museum, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813-254-1891, plantmuseum.com

92 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

InterContinental Hotel, 4860 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 866-915-1557, intercon tampa.com Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, 600 Klosterman Road, Tarpon Springs, 727-7125762, spcollege.edu/central/museum Lions Eye Institute, 1410 N. 21st St., Ybor City, 813-289-1200, lionseyeinstitute.org Mahaffey Theater at the Progress Energy Center, 400 1st Street S., St. Petersburg, 727-892-5767, mahaffeytheater.com Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club, 501 5th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727894-1000, marriot.com/renaissancehotels Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 N. McMullen

Booth Road, Clearwater, 727-791-7400, rutheckerdhall.com Starkey Ranch, 12959 State Road 54, Odessa, 813-920-5288 Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa, 813229-7827, tbpac.org Tampa Bay History Center, 810 Old Water Street, Tampa, 813-228-0097, tampabay historycenter.org Tampa Yacht & Country Club, 5320 Interbay Blvd., 813-831-1611, tampayacht.com University Area Community Development Center, 14013 N. 22nd Street, Tampa, uacdconline.org â&#x2014;&#x2020;

scene { society 2 1

VISUAL TOUCH PHOTOGRAPHY

MUY CALIENTE Event: A Night in Havana Benefiting: The American Red Cross Tampa Bay Venue: Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, Tampa 1. Gina Sierra-Townsend and John Townsend 2. Karen and Rich Helber 3. Sandra and Gary Ward 4. Linda and Ed Carbone 5. Stephen and Marsha Dickey 6. Bill and Ingrid McCollum, Beverly and Al Austin NOVEMBER 2009 93

scene { society

CARDS AND CUBA LIBRES CARLI SLINGERLAND

Event: Havana Nights Benefiting: Best Buddies of Tampa Venue: Tampa History Center, Tampa 1. Kelly Allgire, Angela Lemont, Brooke Layton 2. Jeff Terry, Scott Terry, David Moyer, Jason Downey 3. Steven Losardo, Kelly Hood

ACADEMY OF THE HOLY NAMES Discover YOUR Excellence

Join the Tradition Now Accepting Applications for 2010-2011 Open House November 15, 2009 Pre-K through Grade 8 for Boys and Girls College Preparatory High School for Young Women Sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary

813-839-5371 94 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

3319 Bayshore Blvd.

Tampa, Florida 33629

www.holynamestpa.org

CARLI SLINGERLAND

BREAKING DOWN THE GAME Event: Ladies Chalk Talk Benefiting: Shelton Quarles IMPACT Foundation Venue: Shula’s Steak House, Tampa 1. Carina Cutter, Shannon Carie, Nicole Geisler 2. Ian Beckles, Shelton Quarles, Mitch Geier 3. Cathy Johnson, Tammy Davis, Mari Beth Langston, Erin Johansson

STEPHEN BROWN

MINGLING AMONGST ART

Event: The Wild Party Benefiting: The Morean Arts Center Venue: The Morean Arts Center, St. Petersburg 1. Trina Espinola, Lisa Alfonso 2. Rob Bowen, Katee Tully, Bob Glaser 3. Lara Shelton, Leigh Winkler © 2009 Palm Beach Media Group Inc. All rights reserved. Tampa Bay Illustrated [ISSN 1545-7559] [USPS # 021-879] is published monthly except July; twice a month in November by Palm Beach Media Group Inc. Known office of the publication: 1000 N. Dixie Highway, Suite C, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. Periodical postage paid at West Palm Beach, FL and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Tampa Bay Illustrated, c/o Palm Beach Media Group Inc., P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480. Subscription price: $24.95 per year. Outside U.S. add $35 per year for postage and handling. Send subscription orders to: Subscription Department, Tampa Bay Illustrated, P.O. Box 3344, Palm Beach, FL 33480 or e-mail: circulation@palmbeachmedia.com, fax (561) 659-1736. Volume 7, No. 10 NOVEMBER 2009. Tampa Bay Illustrated magazine and Palm Beach Media Group Inc. retain exclusive rights to all editorial and photographic materials used, which cannot be reproduced in any manner without written consent.

NOVEMBER 2009 95

scene { back story

QUANTUM LEAPS Daniel Ulbricht’s office is the stage, and close to 4,000 people come to watch him work. The St. Petersburg native began ballet training at the age of 11, joined the School of American Ballet on a full scholarship at 15 and became a guest dancer for the New York City Ballet in 1999. In 2001, he joined the company as a member of the corps de ballet and quickly climbed ranks, being promoted to principal dancer in 2007. Today, the 25-year-old also is a guest teacher for many U.S. academies.

IGOR BURLAK

■ WHAT GOES THROUGH YOUR MIND DURING A PERFORMANCE? The only thing I want to think of is how do I want to do the steps, because you never have the same performance twice. Dancers know the steps so well that they know how to get to a particular spot with the choreography but may have a different way of going about it. That’s the difference between just dancing and being in the role and an artist. ■ WHAT DO YOU DO AS A PRINCIPAL DANCER? A principal role is similar to a soloist except that the demand is a lot higher. The technical aspects are still there but what changes is how you dance. People are not only watching what you are doing but also who you are in those pieces. As a principal, I have to always go out and execute. You have more flexibility and freedom. ■ YOU GAVE A PERFORMANCE LAST MONTH AT MAHAFFEY THEATRE. WHY IS IT IMPORTANT FOR YOU TO PERFORM IN YOUR HOMETOWN? I grew up performing at that theater, and it’s about inspiring younger generations. If I can get to that group of guy students and people who are just curious about [ballet], I would want to change their opinions and let them know this is high-class entertainment. It’s also an opportunity for the area to see what they’ve produced. If they see what they’ve produced, they’ll get behind it. You really have to prove to the audience that dancers have careers and professions. —Lola Thélin

96 TAMPA BAY ILLUSTRATED

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