Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine #151

Accent On Tampa Bay

Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Sales Barbara McGovern Vicki Kolb Senior Sports Editor Peter Martino Contributors Sylvie Damien Nancy Evans Marty Peters Deborah Quigley Roland Stone Photographers dkPhoto1 Melissa Wolcott Proofreader Charlie deCatta Cover Photo courtesy Mid America Festivals PUBLISHED BY

P.O. Box 20044 St. Petersburg, FL 33742 (727) 577-5500 e-mail - AccentMagazine@aol.com Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine™ is published bi-monthly by AM Publications, Inc. Material submitted becomes the property of AM Publications, Inc. All material herein, including ads and artwork is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent from the publisher.

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LOCAL FOCUS 11am–11pm. Gasparilla is Tampa’s historic Community celebration which has been described as Mardi Gras themed to pirates, as pirates invade Tampa by sea, take over the city and celebrate with a victory parade down Bayshore Boulevard with the party continuing on the streets of downtown Tampa at Pirate Fest. Free Admission.

Reserved Bleacher Seating Tickets: $28 per person. www.GasparillaPirateFest.com or call 813-251-3378.

Ybor City comes to life when more than 100 dazzling, illuminated floats retrace the route of Knight Parades years past. The parade begins at 7th Ave. & Nebraska Ave at 7PM. www.knightparade.com , 12pm8pm. This event will feature an afternoon and evening of fun and music, as the pirates of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla celebrate their conquest of Tampa, and with one final negotiation with The Mayor, will board their ship and head back out to sea. Location: Channelside. Free Admission. www.OutboundVoyage.com or call 813-251-3378.

Tropicana Field. The 20th Annual Abilities event features California and imported wines, gourmet restaurants, auction items, live entertainment, and free valet parking. Proceeds benefit the Abilities Foundation. In 19 years they have raised $3.2 million to improve the lives of people ;with disabilities. Grand Tasting - $50 in advance, $75 at the door. VIP Reception $100 in advance, $125 at the door. For more information, call 727-538-7370. Buy tickets online at www.AbilitiesFoundation.com The Kiwanis Club of Gulf Beaches, is sponsoring the Mardi Gras Weekend on Treasure Island behind the Bilmar Beach Resort. A Masquerade Ball will kick of the 3 day event on Friday, February 20. Saturday will feature a 5K/1Mile Run and Antique Auto Show. The Miracle League Poker Run will begin at 10:00 a.m.

Sunday at Jim’s Harley Davidson, St. Petersburg, concluding at Ricky T’s on Treasure Island. The Beach Midway will feature over 100 of Florida’s best arts and craft vendors, gourmet food, a Budweiser Tent, live entertainment and a Kids Zone. 727-492-7621.

The streets of Corey Avenue in downtown St. Pete Beach are transformed into an outdoor craft art showcase complete with affordable original works available for sale. Admission is free.

All of the local and national crafters have been hand-selected from hundreds of applicants. Find folk art, pottery, handmade jewelry and paintings, personalized gifts, handmade clothing, scented soaps and body products, and a full spectrum of craft art mediums for sale. All of the crafters will be at the festival with their work, giving visitors the oppor-

Florida State Fair - Touchdown Tampa Bay! Feb. 5 - 16 Free attractions and performances are on tap daily throughout the fairgrounds, including daily parades, bands and crafts.

New this year: Trained diver swims with continue the tradition of showing off their handiwork, children participating in 4H and FFA show their skills and animals, and step back in time in sharks in a 9,000 gallon tank.

Cracker Country – a rustic turn-of-the-century village.

Spanish foods, exhibitors, live entertainment, and other cultural activiHeadline acts include: A Tribute to Half-Time Shows, Feb. 5-10, 12 and 14-15 ties. at 2 & 7 p.m. (multiple show times).

Wed., Feb. 11 at 12 noon & 4 Featuring wild cow milking, stampede races and bronc riding at 3 p.m. p.m. ($10 concert tickets) Featuring Leroy Van Dyke and the Returning favorites include: Circus Hollywood, Giraffic Exotic Auctioneers, Bobby Bare, Gene Watson, Narvel Felts, David Frizzell, Menagerie, Hollywood Racing Pigs, Sea Lion Splash Show, Welde’s Big Jean Shepard, T. Graham Brown, Jimmy Fortune and Moe Bandy.

Bear Show & Grizzly Falls, Bull Riding and Barrel Racing, Spanish Friday, Feb. 13 at 7 p.m.

Lyric Theatre, Gatlinburg Craftsmen’s Fair, Dennis Lee, Lloyd Mabry, Tammy Ann Winn, Doggies of the Wild West, Washboard Willy, Runa Sat & Sun, Feb. 14-15 (multiple show times) Mon., Pacha.

For more information, visit www.floridastatefair.com/ or http://mysFeb. 16 from 12-8 p.m. pace.com/floridastatefair. can enjoy a spacious midway that provides more than 100 rides and games and of course, fair food – cotton candy, ice cream, Fandairgoers anything imaginable fried. Exhibitors come from all over the state to

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tunity to talk with them. 595 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach, FL. www.artfestival.com or call 954-472-3755. , 10am–4pm. The Tampa Bay Women’s Expo will take place at the Coliseum in St. Petersburg.

The Expo will focus on health. Learn more about common diseases and innovative treatments from Bay Area doctors. Attendees will benefit from educational lectures devoted to women’s health issues. There will also be health screenings throughout the day. Get your Body Mass Index, have a vision or osteoporosis screening and learn how to manage your health. Over 50 booths with displays dedicated to work and leisure, weight loss, fitness and relaxation. www.tampabaywomensexpo.com. , 9am–3pm, at The Coliseum, Downtown St. Petersburg. This special event is designed to help seniors make the most of their golden years. For one day only at the Coliseum, meet local professionals who can offer guidance in retirement, health, fitness, volunteerism, and recreation. The Expo is a free day of educational seminars, as well as fun and entertainment.

There will be live musicians, a magician and door prizes. Stroll through the floor and browse exhibits from over 50 local organizations offering products, tips, advice and free giveaways. There will be health screenings and insurance seminars. Bring in a canned food item to support Meals on Wheels, and get ready for fun. Free Admission and Free Parking. 535 4th Ave N., St. Petersburg, FL. www.tampabayseniorexpo.com.

. With the goal to raise $1 million for the Children’s Miracle Network and other local charities, IHOP restaurants nationwide will offer guests a FREE short stack of buttermilk pancakes from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. In return, IHOP will ask guests to donate what they would have paid for the pancakes, or more, to Children’s Miracle Network or other local charities. www.ihoppancakeday.com . The Humane Society Of Pinellas’ 13th Annual Neuter-A-Thon will be held on Saturday, February 21. This is the time to schedule the low-cost neuter for your cat(s). Pet overpopulation leads to homeless, neglected, abused and unwanted pets. Pre-registration is required to participate. All appointments will be set on a first come first serve basis and limited to the first 500. The Humane Society of Pinellas’ Sterling & Calvin Medical Center is located at 3040 State Rd. 590 in Clearwater. Register in person. Call 727-797-7722 x 222 for more details and requirements.

, from 8am-4pm.

The City of Dunedin’s Parks & Recreation Department is holding its first annual Spring Saleabration in Highlander Park. Featuring an eclectic assortment of antiques, boating items, crafts, jewelry, glassware, foods, and more, the Spring Saleabration will feature over 150 different vendors. The event is a combination of the successful “Community Garage Sale,” which has been in existence for nearly three decades, and the “Marine Flea Market” which has outgrown its previous locations.

Entertainment and food vendors will be available. 1920 Pinehurst Road. www.dunedingov.com.

Enjoy a Cajun romp without the hassles of a swamp at the Cajun Zydeco Crawfish Festival March 13-15 in Vinoy Park, on the waterfront in downtown St. Petersburg. Whether you are a closet Creole, displaced Cajun, or just plain hungry for the music, food, and spirit of the Bayou, the Cajun/Zydeco Crawfish Festival promises a lot of everything over three fun-filled days on the waterfront. Festivalgoers can snack their way through 10,000 pounds of crawfish while six live bands dish out some of the hottest Cajun, Zydeco and Swamp Pop sounds Louisiana has to offer.

This year’s musical line-up includes: Dennis Stroughmatt and Creole Stomp, Geno Delafose And French Rockin’ Boogie, Don Fontenot & Les Amis De La Louisiane, Kevin Naquin & The Ossun Playboys, Steve Riley & The Mamou Playboys,TBroussard & The Zydeco Steppers www.cajunconnection.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

on Tampa Bay

Animal Fundraiser takes place on Over fifty fabulous Saturday, February 28, from noon to 6 Artisans, Crafters, Antiques Dealers pm. The Event will feature adoptable pets, Art, Craft and and Entertainers along Beach Blvd, F o o d Ve n d o r s from 6 to 10 pm. Live entertainment along with live www.gulfportma.com. For more informusic the mation call 727-322-5217. length of Beach Blvd. in Gulfport, “The Got Veggies? Check out the Tuesday Little City with a Morning Market on Beach Blvd. in Big Heart”. 100% Gulfport, Every Tuesday, YEAR Proceeds from the ROUND. Fresh Vegetables, plants, event will benefit all and local Artists set up on the sidewalk the 501c3 rescues that attend. paver’s from 9-3pm. FREE Parking!

Activities include a memorial Pet and Family Friendly. Vendors can download the application at celebration at noon, agility activities www.gulfportma.com. For more infor- from 1-3 pm, and a pet food drive all day to benefit the rescue groups. Well mation call 727-343-5962. behaved pets and their people are invited. 727-322-5217. www.getres. Gulfport’s 5th Annual cuedingulfport.com

Stillwagon Studios

SALES • TOURS • RENTALS www.kayaknature.com

Open 4-10 pm • Closed Wednesdays 2930 Beach Blvd., Gulfport, FL 33707

The Apothecary “Waterfront Dining At It’s Best” Homeopathic Products & Remedies Traditional Pharmacy Compounding Specialists

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Restaurant: Open 11am Daily Bar M-S 8am-2am; Sun 11am-2am

“Working Toward Coffee Bliss” Quality Breakfast Coffee Smoothies Espresso Pastries Panini Desserts

Salads

2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. So., Gulfport

727-323-5904 • www.javanirvana.com

Serving:

Gulfport Senior Center • Gulfport Casino Gulfport Waterfront District Stetson Univ. College of Law Pasadena Shopping Center Palms of Pasadena Hospital • St. Pete Beach

www.SeaBreezeManor.com

Hours of Operation: 7:45am-9:50pm Once per hour, 7 Days a Week Cash Fare each way: Regular $1.75, Reduced 85¢, Youth $1.25, Adult Student $1.25

Home of DAYDREAMERS Internet Cafe

727-327-4222 www.bellinisonline.com 2832-2838 Beach Blvd.

So. Gulfport, FL 33707

French Restaurant & Bakery

STEAKHOUSE

3121 Beach Blvd. S. Gulfport, FL 33707

727-327-4200

727-343-9894

www.lafogataonline.com

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FOOTLIGHTS every day of their lives. It’s the one opportunity to do what they’ve always dreamed – to have the chance to dance. This is A CHORUS LINE, the musical for everyone who’s ever had a dream and put it all on the line. .

The hilarious and heart-warming musical that celebrates our love/hate obsession with weight.

Enter a group meeting where the scale, measurements, fats and carbs make us laugh ourselves silly and lose a few calories in the process. . Starring Stacy Keach as Richard Nixon, the play tackles the question: How did David Frost, British talk-show host elicit the apology that the rest of the world was waiting to hear from former President Richard Nixon? This fast-paced play On Sat., March 7, Robin Williams, the multipurpose standup comic/actor comes to the Sun Dome, Tampa. He first rose to fame as Mork from Ork on the "Mork and Mindy," and he rode that show to fame on TV specials and films, including The World According to Garp, Good Morning, Vietnam, Hook and Mrs. Doubtfire. Using a wide assemblage of voices and movements, Williams is one of the most popular and visible comics around. www.gousfbulls.com ______________________________________

T B PA C Best of In an empty Broadway theater, on a bare

stage, casting for a new Broadway musical is almost complete.

For 17 dancers, this audition is the chance of a lifetime. It’s what they’ve worked for – with every drop of sweat, every hour of training,

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shows the determination, conviction and cunning of two men as they square off in one of the most monumental television interviews of all time. . This musical comedy sensation, lovingly ripped off from the film classic “Monty Python and The Holy Grail,” returns to spread laughter and cheer throughout the kingdom. Starring Richard Chamberlain as King Arthur, Spamalot tells the tale of King Arthur and his Knights of the Round Table as they embark on their quest for the Holy Grail.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

This acclaimed production vividly recreates a legendary evening at the Sands Hotel with the most famous performers of our time: Frank Sinatra, Sammy Davis, Jr. and Dean Martin. It’s Las Vegas, it’s the Sands Hotel, the big band is swingin’, and the three wisecracking hip-cats bring their inimitable magic to the finest music ever recorded.

Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, www.tbpac.org. _____________________________________

. August Wilson was an American playwright to rank with Eugene O'Neill. The death of Aunt Ester, a gamble to peddle refrigerators, a garden of seeds and a final act of retribution are the threads that make up the tapestry of Wilson’s 1980s installment in the author's renowned cycle of plays. . by Aristophanes, adapted by Todd Olson and T. Scott Wooten. "No sex, please, we’re Greek!"

The Peloponnesian War has been raging for two decades and the women are tired of it. So one brave lady – Lysistrata gathers all of the women of Greece together to agree to a naughty pact to end the war for good. Contains

adult themes.

American Stage 727-823-PLAY. www.americanstage.org _____________________________________

Season Shows - This play within a play transports you from Shakespeare to the shake and pour era of Cole Porter.

A poignant and witty play that exemplifies enduring love and family reconciliation.

This musical spoof affectionately parodies the spirit of old-fashioned operettas.

William Shakespeare’s enchanting comedy of errors lights up the stage with intrigue and humor.

The St. Pete Little Theater 727-866-1973, www.splt.org _____________________________________

SHOW PALACE DINNER THEATRE .

A down-on-his-luck Broadway producer and his mild-mannered accountant come up with a scheme to produce the most notorious flop in history thereby bilking their backers (all “little old ladies”) out of millions of dollars. Only the show becomes a smash hit.

A MOVEABLE FEAST - A look at Hemingway’s storied time as a struggling young author and part of the American expatriate circle of writers in Paris in the 1920s.

THE OLD MAN AND THE SEA - The epic battle between Santiago, an old, experienced fisherman, and a giant marlin said to be the largest catch of his life.

The Powel Crosley Museum, 8374 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota; 888-818-2781; www.powelcrosleytheatre.com

Jeff Dunham “Spark Of Insanity” at the St Pete Times Forum Jeff Dunham has sold two million DVDs, racking up more than 200 million worldwide Internet views of his online clips. He continues selling out top venues across North America on his current $28 million grossing tour to become a contemporary cultural force who will deliver a brand new level of hilarity to the Forum, on March 22. www.sptimesforum.com

SHOW PALACE DINNER THEATRE www.showpalace.net 16128 U.S. 19 N., Hudson • 5 miles N. of S.R. 52

Florida’s Most Exciting Theatrical & Dining Experience!

Now In Our 10th Year

19 Feb. 27 - Apr.

Now thru Feb. 22

Mon.-Thur. 9am-7pm Fri.-Sat. 9am-8pm Sun. 10am-3pm

Dinner & Show - $42.50 + Tax • Show Only - $31.45 + Tax

. It’s the roaring 20’s. Fresh off the train from Kansas, Millie has come to New York City to seek her fortune or, more truthfully, a wealthy husband. What she finds is the stuff of which only musical comedies are made.

Show Palace, 16128 U.S. 19 N., Hudson. 1-888-655-7469, www.showpalace.net _____________________________________

.

Gwendolyn Crosley invites Ernest Hemingway into her home for performances of two of his bestloved works: www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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What’s Happening!

DOWNTOWN ST. PETE - Boyd Hill Nature Preserve - Williams Park, 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. . Pier Aquarium, - BayWalk 7 to 10 p.m.

- Williams Park. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Guided Hikes - Weedon Island, 10 a.m. to 3 p.m

BayWalk. Runners of all ages will compete for prizes.

Wheelchair Race, Pelican Mile, Kids “Fun Run”.

ley/bus to Historic Kenwood Neighborhood. www.stpetepreservation.org or 727-824-7802.

Central Ave. and 2nd St., 10 a.m. to noon. www.stpetepreservation.org or 727-824-7802.

North Straub Park. 6 to 10 p.m. Local entertainment, performers and bands. Proceeds raised benefit research for the Huntington Society of America. 727471-8557.

Throughout downtown galleries. 5:30 to 9 p.m.More than a dozen galleries participate. Visit the galleries, meet artists and enjoy. www.stpetearts.org or 727-821-6767.

at Gasplant Antiques and Ferg’s. Central Ave. and 13th St N.

St. N. 11:30 a.m.

- Sunken Gardens, 1825 4th

- The Pier Family activities with a character from Fritzy Brothers One Man Circus and face painting. Bands in the Courtyard.

1 to 4 p.m.

Relax by the water and enjoy the local musicians.

February Central Ave. between 2nd and 3rd St Features local jazz musicians and vendors.

- Health, wellness, fashion, travel and more. An event designed to showcase today’s woman. . The Bridal Show is filled with helpful hints, ideas and exhibits for planning the perfect wedding. 727-893-8523.

A special senior focused event that will showcase products and services available to seniors in Tampa Bay.

March

Mahaffey Theater

- Al Lang Field parking lot 9 a.m. to 2

p.m.

Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N. 7 p.m.

Enjoy Big Band music and dancing. BYOB, set-ups available.

North Straub Park. Local restaurants will showcase their finest cuisine along with select vintages and music. American Lung Association of Florida, Gulfcoast Area. www.stpetewineandfood.com or 727347-6133. , 2955 Central Ave. www.craftsmanhousegallery.com or 727-323-ARTS. Albert Whitted Park, 480 Bayshore Dr. S.E www.awaps.org or 727-822-1532.

Central Ave. between 2nd and 3rd St. First Friday monthly.

Features local jazz musicians and vendors.

Mahaffey Theater. 8 p.m. . Celebrating the culture of Southwest Louisiana with food, music, and plenty of dancing.

Fri. 5:30 to 9 p.m., Sat. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Mahaffey Theater. 8 p.m.

Williams Park. 6 p.m. Concerts will feature nationally touring artists and several local and regional music professionals.

11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The Pier approach.

The Pier, Dockside Activity Room. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Come see the latest and the greatest.

Sun. 2 p.m. .

Fri. and Sat. 8 p.m.,

Wed. and Thur. 7;30 p.m., Fri. and Sat. 8 p.m. Sat. and Sun. Matinee 3 p.m. Play by Aristophanes, adapted by Todd Olson and T. Scott Wooten. galleries. 5:30 to 9 p.m.

-

Throughout downtown

de la Vida Mahaffey Theater. 8 p.m.

Central Ave. and 2nd St., 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.Walking tour of historic waterfront and 4th Ave. N. then by trol-

Pier Aquarium Events for Feb.-Mar. - noon - 2 pm - noon - 2 pm with the Ocean Conservancy - noon - 2 pm - Free, fun marine discovery day and kiteflying, 10am-1pm, Roy G. Harrell, Jr. Education Station and Spa Beach.

- noon - 2 pm - Sightings every Monday

Orchid Growers from Florida, Orchid Culture lectures all day and thousands of orchids for sale.

- The 34th Annual Folk Fair’s Ethnic villages will capture the flavor of each country. Costumed villagers demonstrate time-honored hand craftsmanship and prepare ethnic food specialties for visitors. Folks dancing and music will be performed throughout the weekend. www.spiffs.org or 727-552-1896.

North Straub Park. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Display of exotic automobiles, motorcycles, boats and luxury lifestyle products. www.festivalsofspeed.com or 352-385-9450.

Events funded in part by the Pinellas Cultural Affairs Department’s Cultural Development Program.

The mission of The Pier Aquarium is to enhance the public’s understanding of the value and fragility of the local and global marine environment through research, education and personal experiences.

3100.

www.americanstage.org 727-893-8523.www.stpete.org/coliseum www.floridaorchestra.org 1-800-662-7286 727-821-6443 www.stpetepier.com www.splt.org or 727-866-1973 www.sunkengardens.org 727-551-

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CALENDAR OF EVENTS

FEBRUARY

1

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band Raymond James Stadium Super Bowl Halftime Show Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band Raymond James Stadium Super Bowl XLIII Raymond James Stadium

3

Burnin’ Smyrnans Skipper’s Smokehouse

4

Davey Jones and the Dixie Rovers Banquet Masters Pato Banton & Mystic Roots W/Dj Deisel/Stay Positive Sound Skipper’s Smokehouse

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6

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B.B. King, Buddy Guy Ruth Eckerd Hall Book Of Black Earth, Psyopus, Gigan, Cattle Decapitation Orpheum Cattle Decapitation, Gigan, Book Of Black Earth, Psyopus Orpheum Eugene Mirman Club Underground FL State Fair Thru 2/16 Fl State Fairgrounds Grateful Dead Night W/Uncle John’s Band Skipper’s Smokehouse Perpetual Groove The Crowbar Dread Clampitt Skipper’s Smokehouse FL Orchestra - Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 TBPAC Get Downtown Music Series Downtown St. Pete Perpetual Groove The Crowbar Valencia, Artist vs Poet, Houston Calls Orpheum Gumbo Boogie Band Skipper’s Smokehouse

Jessica Simpson 7

The Four Freshmen Polk Comm. College

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Bridal Show Coliseum FL Orchestra - Tchaikovsky: Symphony No. 4 Ruth Eckerd Hall WMNF Caribbean Fest Skipper’s Smokehouse

10

Foxy Shazam, Dr. Manhattan, The A.K.A.s Orpheum Reckless Kelly, Sons Of Bill Skipper’s Smokehouse

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Cash Cash, Watch Out There’s Ghosts, Millionaires, I Set My Friends On Fire Orpheum Gene Watson Florida State Fair George Winston TBPAC Ferguson Hall Impulse Skipper’s Smokehouse Julio Iglesias Ruth Eckerd Hall Millionaires, Watch Out There’s Ghosts, I Set My Friends On Fire, Cash Cash Orpheum

11

Old Crow Medicine Show, The Felice Brothers Tampa Theatre Oldies But Goodies Dance The Pier, St. Pete Senior Expo Coliseum

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Grateful Dead Night W/Uncle John’s Band Skipper’s Smokehouse Motionless In White, Of Machines, The Hottness, My Hero Is Me Transitions Art Gallery Roadside Attraction Hillsborough Community College

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Buffalo Strange, The Hip Abduction, Christie Lenee Skipper’s Smokehouse FL Orchestra - An Evening of Romance and Love Songs TBPAC

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Red Molly TBPAC Ferguson Hall Impulse Skipper’s Smokehouse

19

Dr. Dog, Drug Rug The Crowbar Grateful Dead Night W/Uncle John’s Band Skipper’s Smokehouse Seafood And Blues Festival thru 2/ 21 Coachman Park

20

Pussycat Dolls 12

Automatic Loveletter

FL Orchestra - Blue Danube TBPAC Lil Malcolm & The House Rockers Coachman Park The Nields Craftsman House

21

Automatic LoveLetter, Friday Night Boys Orpheum Citizen Cope Jannus Landing FL Orchestra - Blue Danube Mahaffey Theater Jerry Lewis Ruth Eckerd Hall John Nemeth, Jonny Lang, Lil’ Ed & The Blues Imperials Coachman Park Rockabilly Ruckus Skipper’s Smokehouse

22

Col. Bruce Hampton & The Quark Alliance W/Moonalice Skipper’s Smokehouse FL Orchestra - Blue Danube Ruth Eckerd Hall

Blind Boys Of Alabama Skipper’s Smokehouse Depression Glass Show & Sale Thru 2/15 Harborview Center Drum Circle Facilitation The Pier, St. Pete FL Orchestra - An Evening of Romance and Love Songs Mahaffey Theater Gallery Walk Downtown St. Pete Lily Tomlin Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center Natalie Cole Ruth Eckerd Hall Suncoast Classic BayWalk Yonder Mountain String Band Jannus Landing Anything But Safe: Sex, Sexuality, And Gender Skipper’s Smokehouse FL Orchestra - An Evening of Romance and Love Songs Ruth Eckerd Hall Pink Floyd Experience Carol Morsani Hall

Darryl Worley Dallas Bull Dubconscious Skipper’s Smokehouse

eee

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David Brenner 23

Oldies But Goodies Dance The Pier, St. Pete The Lives Of Famous Men Orpheum

24

Childrens Miracle Network National Pancake Day Celebration All Ihops Davey Jones and the Dixie Rovers Banquet Masters Freight Train Annie’s Girlie Show Skipper’s Smokehouse

25

Impulse Skipper’s Smokehouse

26

George Jones Florida Strawberry Festival Grateful Dead Night W/Uncle John’s Band Skipper’s Smokehouse

27

Kellie Pickler Florida Strawberry Festival Ludo, The Morning Light, Sing It Loud, This Providence Orpheum

Send Your Event Listings To: ACCENT Magazine, P.O. Box 20044, St. Petersburg, FL 33742

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Kellie Pickler 27

The Harlem Globetrotters St. Pete Times Forum

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Battlefield Band Pinellas Park Performing Arts Cente Classic Auto Ahoq The Pier, St. Pete George Jones Silver Springs Amphitheatre The Subdudes Skipper’s Smokehouse Third Day Florida Strawberry Festival Tribute To Harry James & The Andrew Sisters Coliseum

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9 10 12

MARCH 1

Rodney Atkins Florida Strawberry Festival Smucker’s Stars On Ice St. Pete Times Forum

2

Harlem Globetrotters Manatee Convention Center Randy Travis Florida Strawberry Festival

3

Brenda Lee Florida Strawberry Festival

5

Badfish - Trib. to Sublime The Ritz Elton John, Billy Joel St. Pete Times Forum Mel Tillis, Son Of Sam Florida Strawberry Festival Get Downtown Music Series Downtown St. Pete 03/06 Jeff Foxworthy, Ronnie McDowell Florida Strawberry Festival

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Britney Spears/ The Pussycat Dolls St. Pete Times Forum FL Orchestra - Verdi Requiem Ruth Eckerd Hall Gasparilla Festival Of The Arts Gaslight Square Park Jessica Simpson, Julianne Hough Florida Strawberry Festival Steve Forbert TBPAC Ferguson Hall Empty Hats Skipper’s Smokehouse Less Than Jake, The Expendables Jannus Landing

Arlo Guthrie Tampa Theatre

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Gallery Walk Downtown St. Pete Playhouse Disney Live!

Ruth Eckerd Hall

15

CanAmGer Jazz Band Banquet Masters Mudvayne, In This Moment The Ritz The Terry Adams Crazy Trio W/ Vodkanaut Skipper’s Smokehouse

16

David Brenner Show Palace Dinner Theatre

17

Arlo Guthrie Tampa Theatre

Boat Sale Thru 3/15 Tropicana Field Craig Owens of Chiodos,

Tampa Theatre FL Orchestra - Ravel: Mother Goose TBPAC Robin Rogers TB Blues Festival Vinoy Park

21

Eric Lindell, The Tommy Castro Band, Ruthie Foster TB Blues Festival Vinoy Park Halcyon Skipper’s Smokehouse

22

FL Orchestra - Ravel: Mother Goose Ruth Eckerd Hall Irma Thomas, Tinsley Ellis, Seth Walker TB Blues Festival Vinoy Park

25

Jesse Cook Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center

26

FL Orchestra - The Always Amazing John Williams TBPAC

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Festivals Of Speed Vinoy Park FL Orchestra - The Always Amazing John Williams Mahaffey Theater Jimmy Wayne Sims Park Amphitheatre Paula Poundstone TBPAC Ferguson Hall The Commander Cody Band R.E. Olds Park The Oak Ridge Boys Polk Theatre The Vodkanauts, Stolen Idols Skipper’s Smokehouse

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FL Orchestra - John Williams Ruth Eckerd Hall Matt & Kim Transitions Art Gallery

VersaEmerge, The Gay Blades, Ace Enders Orpheum FL Orchestra - Doc Severinsen - El Ritmo de la Vida TBPAC Jagermeister Country Music Tour, Randy Houser, Pat Green Dallas Bull

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YEAR AT A GLANCE Calendar of Events for Hundreds of Listings!

Your Entertainment Connection to All Events

Tampa Bay Entertainment.Com

The Black Lips Orpheum

27

Randy Travis

Chris McCarty Skipper’s Smokehouse FL Orchestra - Doc Severinsen - El Ritmo de la Vida Mahaffey Theater

For Our

20 Ani DiFranco

FL Orchestra - Romantic Rhapsodies Mahaffey Theater

Connie Smith, Marty Stuart, Travis Tritt Florida Strawberry Festival Lovedrug Orpheum

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6

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FL Orchestra - Verdi Requiem Mahaffey Theater Gasparilla Festival Of The Arts, Kraig Kenning Gaslight Square Park Kansas Silver Springs Amphitheatre Lady Antebellum Florida Strawberry Festival Little Anthony & The Imperials Ruth Eckerd Hall Robin Williams USF Sun Dome William Elliott Whitmore, Samantha Crain And The Midnight Shivers Orpheum

email: AccentMagazine@aol.com • Visit www.AccentOnTampaBay.com for “Year At A Glace” Event Listings

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HOT CONCERTS and , the most successful and longestrunning concert pairing in pop history, will reunite for their Billy Joel & Elton John Face 2 Face tour coming to the St. Pete Times Forum March 5. Billy and Elton open the concert with a series of duets, playing twin pianos and trading vocals. Each artist then performs a set with his own band. A grand finale brings the two superstars and their supporting musicians back together for a closing encore. will bring her highly anticipated “The Circus Starring Britney Spears” 2009 Tour to the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa, FL on Britney March 8. Britney Spears is one of the Spears top-selling artists of the last decade, and to date she has sold in excess of 62 mil-

lion albums worldwide. The tour also features special guests The Pussycat Dolls. www.sptimesforum.com A whole lot of county favs will be coming to the Florida Strawberry Festival this year. Here are just a few: The vererable performs Feb. 26; American Idol alum, Taylor Swift may be wearing her red high heel shoes on Feb. 27; reigning country teen queen, performs on March 1; brings his baritone to the stage on March 2; will hit the stage on March 3; and two blonde beauties — Dancing With The Stars own

and hitmaker perform on March 8. www.flstrawberryfestival.com. are very much a two-way operation. Together, Jules and Katie have configured a sound that represents the pure heart of British pop.They share lyric and music writing duties. They have an appealing mix of Go-Gos pop and clubby beats. Their big hit, Shut Up and Let Me Go, is a mash of energy, anger and pure pop arousal. Check them out at the Orpheum in Tampa on March 29. www.statemedia.com

The Ting Tings

Master drummer CARMINE APPICE is in da house! (or will be soon)

A

rguably rock’s best drummer is coming to the Tampa Bay area for several gigs — teaching ones. And you can participate. Drummer for Vanilla Fudge, Cactus, Beck, Bogart & Appice, Rod Stewart, etc. etc., Carmine will be giving clinics and classes on drumming in February.

2/25 - DRUM TEACHERS SEMINAR at 12PM - FREE for instructors - RSVP (limited.)

MASTER CLASS - 7PM - $35, along with the class, you receive Carmine and Vinny’s “Drum Wars” DVD, plus a pair of drum sticks.

2/26 - FREE Drum clinic - 7 PM. Both day’s events are at Seminole Music and Sound, 727-391-3892. www.seminolemusic.com Carmine recently signed as a rep for Dean’s DDrums, who just released 100 collectible Carmine ES drum kits. This kit is a duplicate of his red sparkle kit played on the Ed Sullivan Show when he was with Vanilla Fudge. DDrums also released a Carmine signature snare. Visit www.ddrums.com for more information.

Carmine also has a new show called SLAMM, which is kind of like STOMP on steroids. The show is new, an in limited showings at the moment. Visit Carmine’s website for more up-to-date info on what he’s up to. http://www.carmineappice.net.

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MUSIC TRAX Off The Beaten Path After 2 years of writing and recording, has released LIVE WIRES, 11 terrifically refined pop/rock tunes that will fit comfortably in your iPod shuffle alongside Gavin DeGraw, Switchfoot, or Daughtry. www.aaronzimmer.com Every thing the members of hear, touch and see influences them. They are an adventure into pop, exploring many different styles and sounds. Whether it be sung, strummed, or programmed, you can bet they have tried to make it work. Their debut album WALK THIS WAY is a soundtrack for the iTunes, PlayStation generation. www.TheWhiteTieAffair.com is a band built on making their own music that they openly share with friends (including the raw tracks) and self-promote with postcards and other fun propagandastylistic campaigns. OPEN has a sound like Talking Heads meets Led Zeppelin on ludes. www.myspace.com/fitehouseband ’s latest CD, MODERN DAY PYGMALION, takes a new direction, yet his signature sound remains intact. A beautiful collection of songs coming from the heart. Paul’s talents as a guitarist are spotlighted in these selections. Deep rhythms with gentle vocals combine to create songs that are exciting, sensuous, and full of heartfelt messages. www.paulgengmusic.com , is Indonesia’s biggest 16

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band, but are looking forward to breaking through in the United States.

ANTHEM FOR THE BROKEN HEARTED is the band’s first English-language record, and has 10 tracks of catchy hard pop that blends Slank’s appreciation for artists as varied as The Rolling Stones and Bob Marley. This disc is certain to attract fans of bands like Sublime, Jet, and Buck Cherry. www.myspace.com/slank ’s NO, SERIOUSLY album evokes the sounds of sparkling pop, with a dose of cosmic noise thrown in.

Their style is unique, yet recalls the influence of Smashing Pumpkins, Foo Fighters and the like. www.thirdeyemusic.com

FROM THE COOP is a 43-minute collection of rare demos recorded in 1988. Pretty much anything a guitarist could ever do with a guitar appears somewhere on this album: flamenco runs, classical arpeggios, Parliamentstyled funk, free jazz, acid rock, southern-fried twang, and even speed metal. From these demos alone, it’s readily apparent that is well-versed in music way beyond the capacities of the average guitarist. www.mvdb2b.com ’ LIFE IS SAD is an experimental release in the vein of Frank Zappa’s Mothers of Invention. Selfdescribed as “eclectic macrotonal rock music with drums, bass, organ, singing, electric 12-string, banjo, kalimba, and more drums, all played by one sad old guy from Ohio.” Decide for yourself at www.ripsmops.net.

Michael Wandmacher. Punisher: War Zone is an 2008 action/comic book film based on the fictional Marvel Comics vigilante and antihero the Punisher. The film is a reboot and not a sequel to 2004’s The Punisher. Feature performers are Rob Zombie, Slayer, Slipknot, Rise Against , Seether, Kerli, 7 Days Away, Senses Fail, Machines Of Loving Grace, Justice, Pendulum, Hatebreed, Static-X and Ramallah. music.lionsgate.com Punk-Rockers ’s new album SIFTING THROUGH THE WRECKAGE is a hard rock phoenix rising from the ashes of advrsity.

Creating music for the masses, each song is a story of struggle and triiumph, which brings a message of hope and hard core happiness. www.fallfromgrace.us

worked as a backup singer for the likes of Aretha Franklin and Whitney Houston. She also had a hand in writing the Diana Ross hit “Take Me Higher.” She contributed lyrics to thirteen of the fifteen songs on her new album JUST KITA , a welcome return to the forefront by a gifted singer whose wide range suggests Anita Baker in the lower register and Teena Marie in the upper. www.myspace.com/ nikitagermaine

FREE YOUR MIND is singer/ saxophonist ’s attempt to make sense of recent emotionally charged events some global, some personal that have changed his perspective on his own life in particular and the human experience in general. The album also includes the work of Pieces Of The soundtrack to A Dream keyboardist, James is by composer Lloyd. www.headsup.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

AFTERPLAY , the 2nd release by pianist/composer , heads into contemporary jazz territory with catchy melodies, fluid chops, and richly detailed arrangements. This 11-song album of upbeat piano instrumentals includes the talents of Eric Crystal, David Rokeach, Viviana Guzman, James Robinson, and other fine musicians. www.skylightmusic.com RADIO SHOW from singer-pianist, is an album that recaptures that golden age of radio. The album embraces a variety of eras in American popular music. Radio Show offers up a historical retrospective of the intimate relationship between the music, the listener and the magic medium that brought them together. Includes songs originally performed by New Order, Ray Charles, Phillip Bailey, Chuck Berry and others. www.telarc.com SOUNDS ABOUT RIGHT combines elements of ’ alltime favorite singers who’s sound he’s melded into a distinct and natural voice all his own. “I’ve taken a little bit of something from all the great standards singers: A little sass from Bobby Darin, the rich and velvety vocal styling of Mel Torme, the raw power of Tony Bennett, and anything and everything I can take from Frank Sinatra.” www.garyfieldsmusic.com MORE TALES REMIXED from unleashes some of the world’s most prominent DJs on the original tracks.

The album takes the high energy of the original material and jacks it up even further with infectious dance mixes. www.headsupcom ’s VIEW SO TENDER:WONDER REVISITED, VOL. TWO isn’t so much a tribute

album to Stevie Wonder, it is more of a dialog between the two genres of jazz and R&B. Gilman delves deep into Stevie’s catalog and finds ways to reassemble the music into vehicles for improvisation. www.joegilman.com

From hilariously funny to moving compositions of love, remembrance, and social awareness, ’s songs always hit home. She sings from the heart about her life and family….and brings all that passion to the stage. With three CDs under her belt, she has finally produced her first solo project called DADDY’S LITTLE GIRL. www.ellenbukstel.com

fuses the traditional style of country music with his own energetic spirit, taking the genre in a new direction. WHITE PICKET FENCE is a heartfelt collection of emotional life stories. They ring with the truth of experience. www.plaidstarrecords.com has attained a national identity as one of the top bluegrass banjo players on the scene, exhibiting impeccable taste, timing, and tone. With an attentive ear to back-up, she is known and respected as a true band and team player among her peers. She is joined on her new album, STRAIGHT PATHS with some of the most talented instrumentalists in the bluegrass scene. www.pinecastle.com

’s new album, ECONOMY CLASS, presents a groove and swing of original music that thaws unexpected melodies and rhythms.

Listeners of bluegrass and Celtic music will enjoy Frigg’s melodic

twists and turns, as well as their energy of a rock band and off-kilter rhythms and missing beats that accentuate the unexpected reserved-meets-over-the-top sense of humor. www.noside.com With SANGRIA, explores the exciting sonic terrain that blends the driving rhythmic syncopations of Latin jazz with the entrancing, assymetrical meters of East India. This debut recording features her original compositions that draw musical inspiration from Brazil, Cuba, Spain, and India. www.ancient-future.com The core of the sound is Afrobeat: a big-band funk invented by Fela Kuti in 1970’s Nigeria. Afrobeat is a spicy stew of modern jazz, Yoruba tribal music and burning, James Browninspired rhythms. But the band also mixes in classic Ghanaian dance tunes, Senegalese rumba, Kenyan classics and Jamaican ska and stirs it all thoroughly to create a massive groove on this self-titled album. www.chopteeth.com

sational music. www.ancientfuture.com approaches their album LA BIBOURNOISE with fun and lightness. They spin tales of mischief and a few of heartbreak and lament. This three-man band fills our ears with a clever, spunky approach to rhythm, harmony, and arrangement. Though earnest and well-studied, they don’t take themselves too seriously. www.genticorum.com Alluring sounds of guitar, piano, dulcimer, exotic hurdy gurdy, sitar, tribal drums and other Middle Eastern percussion fill ’s musical landscape to tell one woman’s triumphant story.

From the first note to the last,

SCHEHERAZADE brings together exotic instruments, moving ambient vocals and soulful guitar solos. www.alconti.net

, better known as “Da Priest”, fills a void found in the Gospel Hip Hop Industry with PULL YOUR PANTS UP! The controversial yet unique urban sound and savvy hardcore street beat is the essence of his music. Many of his fans know him as “The Priest of the Streets”. His support base has reached into a sea of Christian churches and organization, high schools, expos, conferences and countless urban and suburban communities. www.malaco.com

Accent Spotlights . . .

SANTINO Leading a Trail of Innovation

latest recording, CADA DÍA UN REGALO combines original compositions about social justice and love with a couple of hand-selected classics from Latin America and Cuba. The overall effect is inspirational. They walk a fine line between the exotic and the familiar. Is it Latin music or folk music? Is this a Buddhist message or a universal one? www.solycanto.com

SEVEN SERENADES FOR SCALLOPED FRETBOARD GUITAR, the debut recording by showcases his work on the scalloped fretboard guitar, a special modified instrument able to produce ornaments more characteristic of the sitar. Montfort is a pioneer among guitarists who have had their fretboards scalloped in order to play various forms of world music that require intricate notebending ornaments while still being able to play chords. This first solo effort features his improviwww.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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AT THE MOVIES Movies in

FEBRUARY - Kids/Family.

Starring: Robert Bailey Jr, Keith

David, Dakota Fanning; Directed by: Henry Selick. The story of a young girl who unlocks a mysterious door in her new home, and enters into an adventure in a parallel reality. On the surface, this other world eerily mimics her own life--though much more fantastical. In it, Coraline encounters such off-kilter inhabitants as the morbidly funny Miss Forcible and Miss Spink, and a counterfeit mother--who attempts to keep her.

- Comedy. Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Connelly; Directed by: Ken Kwapis. A hardline advice guy falls for a woman who seeks him out because she can’t figure out the men in her life.

favorite fashion magazine, but can’t quite get her foot in the door—until she snags a job as an advice columnist for a financial magazine published by the same company.

Comedy. Starring: Aishwarya Rai, Steve Martin, Emma Bunton;

- Drama.

Starring: Harrison Ford, Jim Sturgess, Ashley Judd; Director: Wayne Kramer. Immigrants from around the world enter Los Angeles every day, with hopeful visions of a better life, but little notion of what that life may cost.

Their desperate scenarios test the

- Comedy.

Starring: Isla Fisher, Hugh Dancy, Joan Cusack; Director: P.J. Hogan. In the glamorous world of New York City, Rebecca Bloomwood is a fun-loving girl who is really good at shopping.

She dreams of working for her

Directed by: Harald Zwart. The continuing adventures of Inspector Jacques Clouseau.

Thriller. Starring: Clive Owen, Naomi Watts, Armin MuellerStahl; Director: Tom Tykwer.

Interpol Agent Louis Salinger and

Cher To Star In The Drop-Out

humanity of immigration enforcement officers.

Manhattan Assistant District Attorney Eleanor Whitman are determined to bring to justice one of the world’s most powerful banks. Uncovering myriad and reprehensible illegal activities, Salinger and Whitman follow the money from Berlin to Milan to New York to Istanbul. Their relentless tenacity puts their own lives at risk.

- Music Documentary. Starring: Kevin Jonas, Joe Jonas, Nick Jonas. The film blends excerpts from the Brothers’ red-hot “Burning Up” concert tour, including guest performances from Demi Lovato and Taylor Swift, with exclusive behind-the-scenes footage, offthe-wall segments, a neverbefore-heard song.

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ACCENT On Tampa Bay

- Action.

Starring: Kristin Kreuk, Michael Clarke Duncan, Neal McDonough; Director: Andrzej Bartkowiak. A live-action feature film based on Capcom’s video game. The new film is focused on female fighter Chun-Li and her journey for justice.

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Adventure. Starring: Jim Carrey; Director: Howard Hall. This new IMAX adventure transports moviegoers to some of the most exotic and isolated undersea locations on Earth, including Southern Australia, New Guinea and others in the Indo-Pacific region, allowing them to experience face-toface encounters with some of the most mysterious and stunning creatures of the sea.

MARCH - Adventure.

Starring: Dwayne Johnson, AnnaSophia Robb, Carla Gugino;

Clive Owen, Tom Wilkinson; Director: Tony Gilroy. Story of spies-turned-corporate operatives in the midst of a clandestine love affair. When they find themselves embroiled in a high-stakes espionage game, they discover the toughest part of the job is deciding how much to trust the one you love.

Director: Andy Fickman. For years, stories have circulated about a secret place in the Nevada desert, known for unexplained phenomena and strange sightings.

When a Las Vegas cab driver finds two teens with supernatural powers in his cab, he suddenly finds himself in the middle of an adventure he can’t explain.

- Action. Starring: Nicolas Cage, Rose Byrne; Director: Alex Proyas. A gripping action-thriller about a professor who stumbles on terrifying predictions about the future—and sets out to prevent them from

Comedy. Starring: Sandra Bullock, Thomas Haden Church, Bradley Coope; Director: Phil Traill. Set up on a blind date with Steve, Mary thinks the chemistry is undeniable and just knows she’s found her soulmate. She decides to do anything and go anywhere to be with him. Steve becomes increasingly unhinged as Mary trails them.

Comedy.

Starring: Paul Rudd, Jason Segel, Rashida Jones; Director: John Hamburg. Peter Klaven is a suc-

cessful real estate agent who, upon getting engaged to the woman of his dreams, Zooey, discovers that he has no male friend close enough to serve as his Best Man. Peter immediately sets out to rectify the situation, embarking on a series of bizarre and awkward “man-dates.”

Action. Starring: Timothy Olyphant, Steve Zahn, Milla Jovovich; Director: David Twohy.

The story centers on a newlywed couple who encounter two strange hikers.

- Romantic Thriller. Starring: Julia Roberts,

ingly idyllic life was about to go up in smoke – especially as the unwitting, second-hand recipient of advice from famed love expert and radio host Dr. Emma Lloyd.

One day he is a happy, go-lucky guy looking forward to a life with his soon-to-be-bride. The next thing you know, his fiancée is seeking couples counseling on the radio from Dr. Lloyd.

Musical Comedy. Starring: Ice Cube, Mike Epps, Terry Crews; Director: Marcus Raboy. A pair of shady concert promoters get in over their heads when they get a shot at booking a big-name hiphop act. Complications come in the form of a pot-growing neighborhood nemesis who is under contract with the old man.

Animation. Starring: Reese Witherspoon, Hugh Laurie, Will Arnett; Director: Rob Letterman, Conrad Vernon. When California girl Susan Murphy is unwittingly clobbered by a meteor full of outer space gunk on her wedding day, she mysteriously grows to 49-feet-11-inches tall. The military jumps into action and Susan is captured and secreted away to a covert government compound.

There, she is renamed Ginormica

and placed in confinement with a ragtag group of Monsters. Their confinement is cut short, however, when a mysterious alien robot lands on Earth and begins storming the country. The President is persuaded to enlist the motley crew of Monsters to combat the Alien Robot and save the world from imminent destruction.

coming true. In 1958, a group of students is asked to draw pictures to be stored in a time capsule. But one mysterious girl fills her sheet of paper with rows of apparently random numbers instead. Fifty years later, a new generation of students examines the capsule’s contents and the girl’s cryptic message ends up in the hands of young Caleb Koestler. But it is Caleb’s father, professor John Koestler, who makes the startling discovery that the encoded message predicts with pinpoint accuracy the dates, death tolls and coordinates of every major disaster of the past 50 years.

Comedy. Starring: Ricky Gervais, Jennifer Garner, Rob Lowe; Director: Ricky Gervais, Matt Robinson. Set in a contemporary world where no one has ever lied.

Gervais plays a performer who tells the first lie and harnesses its power for personal gain.

- Romantic Comedy.

Starring: Uma Thurman, Jeffrey Dean Morgan, Colin Firth; Director: Griffin Dunne. A NY firefighter had no idea his seemwww.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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DVD VIEWS

NEW RELEASES Bud Johnson’s an ordinary dad drifting through life, caring about nothing except his overachieving daugther Molly. Trying to encourage him to get involved, Molly accidentally sets off a chain of events on Election Day that ends with the presidential race coming down to one vote -- Bud’s.

Starring Kevin Costner. www.bventertainment.go.com Two losers get a unique TV set which transports them to a place in the subconscious of modern society. In this world, an array of humorous skits unfold, one more outrageous than the one before it, uncovering what makes us laugh and what makes us tick.

Starring: Affion Crockett, Devin McGinn. www.peacearch.com - The conclusion to “Futurama: Benders Big Score.” Bender and the planet express crew must contend with a massive cosmic team that sends the world into panic. www.foxhome.com - Jason Robards shines as the well-meaning but manipulative comedian and Britt Ekland is the lovably innocent Amish girl in this affectionately, poignant but

lighthearted view of Burlesque and a time gone by. www.foxhome.com

- Starring Academy Award winners Sidney Poitier, Rod Steiger and Lee Grant. While traveling in the Deep South, a black Philadelphia homicide detective, becomes unwittingly embroiled in the murder investigation of a prominent businessman when he is first accused of the crime and then asked to solve it. www.foxhome.com Starring Emma Thompson and Matthew Goode.

When the charming aristocrat Sebastian invites Charles Ryder to his family’s estate, Charles becomes seduced by the opulent lifestyle of the Marchmain family, and by Julia, Sebastian’s sister. www.miramax.com

- David Boreanaz stars as F.B.I. Agent Seeley Booth, who teams up with forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance “Bones” Brennan (Emily Deschanel) to solve some of the most baffling and bizarre crimes ever. www.foxhome.com - Join TV’s coolest young cast as they find friendship, fun and a new kind of

OWN IT NOW!

- He is not alone. Prepare for the mysterious arrival of Jessi XX in the sci-fi drama’s Second Season. What is Jessi’s connection to Kyle, and might she carry the answer to the ultimate question: Who is Kyle XY? www.abcfamily.go.com

- All secrets come to the surface in the first season of the series. Good-girl band geek Amy is smart, talented...and pregnant. www.abcfamily.go.com - The girls are off to India for new musical adventures. When the girls get cast in a Bollywood musical, they find out they have to compete against each other for the

Brideshead Revisited

Complete 2nd Season

PRIVILEGE AMBITION DESIRE

He Is Not Alone!

ACCENT On Tampa Bay

- Fess Parker stars as Daniel Boone in this timeless classic series.

Digitally restored and re-mastered, “Daniel Boone” takes us on suspenseful action adventures with his fellow frontiersmen and women. www.libent.com

NOW ON DVD

KYLE XY

20

drama in the second chapter of Greek. The excitement and the heartbreak of Greek life continues for the students of Cyprus-Rhodes University, and everything heats up when they head south for Spring Break. www.abcfamily.go.com

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starring role. www.disneydvd.disney.go.com

- An adventure through the Middle Kingdom, where the language, culture and history of China come to life in a fun and interactive way. www.walkerandpingping.com Join Hip Hop great Roger G. in his latest Hip Hop for Kids fitness DVD. Dance, groove, stretch and have fun while learning all the latest moves like the Chicken Noodle Soup, The Snap, Walk It Out, and more. www.hiphop4kids.net - When Sunflower Valley needs a new sports stadium, there’s only one team for the job.

It’s “Bob The Builder and his Can-Do Crew. www.bobthebuilder.com

Bears as they discover new adventures, new friends, and new secrets.

www.demonhunter.net

- These fun stories include the new bad bear in the neighborhood - Grizzle! www.foxhome.com

- Recorded live during the 35th Anniversary World Tour.

Featuring behind-the-scenes footage and previously unreleased live performances at the N.I.A, Birmingham and The Glastonbury Festival. www.mvdb2b.com

- An animated series designed to reinforce character development in children in an entertaining fun way. Hear the stories of the Hebrew Daniel in the lions’ den, and Harriet Tubman’s determination to use faith to continue taking risks throughout her life. www.porchlight.com

- The concert release captures the band performing over a dozen tunes before a Parisian crowd. Recorded at the New Morning club in Paris, this concert celebrates the band’s fusion of metal and pop music. www.mvdb2b.com

- Many words don’t follow basic decoding rules and are taught in pre-k and kindergarten classrooms as “sight words”, “instant words”, “high frequency words” or “star words.” Now children can master “sight words” with the same rapid speed that they learned letters, numbers, shapes and colors. www.preschoolprepco.com

- For this Grammy-winning a cappella group that merges South African music and dance traditions with Christian messages of compassion, love and global harmony, the music alone is only half the story. The set captures fourteen songs and forty minutes of in-depth interviews. www.headsup.com

- There’s plenty of adventure when those loveable Care Bears are around.

- Even life in Care-a-lot has its up and downs. Follow the Care

- This 3-disc set features the 45 Days documentary, original music from the film and Live In Nashville, Tennessee. 45 Days is an exclusive audio/visual journey that follows every step of the band during their ground breaking tour.

EXTENDED MUSIC EDITION

Live GREEK Life!

The Cheetah Girls

GREEK

ONE WORLD

on DVD

Chapter Two

- This performance filmed on April 23rd 1984 at the Palais in Nottingham, England, has footage in all its sleazy gritty glory. Hanoi Rocks drew their influences from American proto punk bands. With a slice of glam rock in the mix and you had a band that would in turn become a massive influence on generations of rock bands that followed. www.mvdb2b.com

NOW ON DVD!

- This DVD contains a collection of official archival footage from the ‘70s. Intermixed with the live content is interview footage. www.mvdb2b.com

OWN IT NOW!

SWING VOTE A Nobody Becomes the Voice of Everybody

TOP RENTALS CRASH THE DEPARTED THE PURSUIT OF HAPPYNESS LITTLE MISS SUNSHINE CASINO ROYALE NO COUNTRY FOR OLD MEN BLOOD DIAMOND WALK THE LINE THE DEVIL WEARS PRADA THE BUCKET LIST THE NOTEBOOK MR. & MRS. SMITH HOTEL RWANDA BABEL

THE HOLIDAY DEJA VU THE DA VINCI CODE THE ILLUSIONIST INSIDE MAN SYRIANA FAILURE TO LAUNCH KNOCKED UP CLICK MILLION DOLLAR BABY THE BOURNE SUPREMACY THE AVIATOR

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FOOD & BEVERAGE A NEW BONEFISH GRILL in St. Petersburg

by Melissa Wolcott and Al Martino

B

onefish Grill opened their new restaurant on 4th Street in Northeast St. Petersburg recently, which was a move across the street and up in size. The popular restaurant always had a line waiting to get in, and proprietor Eric Neuwirth is hoping the increase in tables will alleviate the wait for their patrons. The new space seats 298.

The decor, general ambiance and menu, however, remain the same for the comfort and familiarity of their guests.

Bonefish is one of our family’s favorite restaurants, and we are fortunate to have one in our neighborhood — although Bang Bang Shrimp it’s worth a drive!

The service has always been pleasant and efficient. No matter how full the restaurant is, service is always well paced — no long wait between courses, yet not rushed. We have always found their prices to be very reasonable, which is another reason the restaurant is doing well in these economically tough times.

Bonefish has an extremely palate pleasing menu, with a lot of wonderful seafood offerings and some landlubber delights as well. They offer different specials every night in addition to their regular menu. The wine list is well thought out, and their Martinis are fun and tasty.

Bonefish is affiliated with Ocean Trust (an Fontina Pork Chop ocean conservation foundation) and donates $1 for every martini sold.

A few of our family favorites are Bonefish’s signature Bang Bang Shrimp appetizer, Chilean Sea Bass served with a choice of four different sauces, and the Fontina Pork Chop with an amazing sauce of Fontina Cheese, Garlic, Prosciutto and Mushroom Marsala Wine.

Whatever entree you choose, the Potatoes Au Gratin is an excellent choice for a side dish. The house salad of greens, hearts of palm, olives, tomatoes and pine nuts with herb

vinaigrette is a pleaser as well.

Dessert of Créme Brulée or a Macadamia Nut Brownie is a must.

You will never go home hungry from Bonefish, but will look forward to a return visit soon.

The new Bonefish Grill is located at 5062 4th St. North, St. Petersburg 33705.

For more information visit www.bonefishgrill.com. For more information on Ocean Trust, visit www.OceanTrust.org.

Visit Accent’s

Dining Guide on the Web with

MenuVue and

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BellaPizzelle.com The Beautiful Cookie Company o many Italians, there is no feast without pizzelles. Now that the pizzelle tradition has crossed over to America, you can taste its rich history in every bite of BellaPizzelle authentic pizzelles.

The name pizzelle comes from the Italian word “pizze” for round and flat. It has been called the oldest known cookie, and it’s believed to have originated in the

T

polished metal irons to bake them to order. Orders are shipped within 48 hours of baking.

Enjoy the Old-World taste of real crunchy Italian pizzelles (which also make great gourmet gifts.) A free hand-written gift card and Free pizzelle history come in every tube.

Pizzelles can be served with ice cream, drizzled with hot fudge and topped with whipped cream, or as the “bread” of a sandwich containing ice cream, spumanti, jam, hazelnut spread or any other sweet ingredient.

For more information, and to order BellaPizzelles, visit www.bellapizzelle.com.

Abruzze area of Italy centuries ago. Pizzelles became an important part of celebrations and feasts throughout Italy, with many families even designing their own unique irons to decorate their pizzelles with family crests and other symbols.

BellaPizzelles are handmade to order, with no preservatives. They taste homemade, because they are. BellaPizzelles are made two at a time, in the BellaPizzelle gourmet kitchen, using authentic

3101 Suite G, SR 580 Saftey Harbor, FL 34695

(727) 797-2667 Fax 797-4555

www.panoskouzina.com We accept all major credit cards www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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To best enjoy the aroma, taste, color, body and intensity of tequila, serve approximately 1 oz of the spirit in a snifter glass. A snifter’s wide bottom helps evaporate the tequila aroma, while the narrowness helps keep it in the glass for ultimate enjoyment.

Look at the color of the tequila in the glass — preferably against a white background or held up to a light. Swirl and notice the legs or tears spiraling down the glass. This can tell you a lot about its character. More rested tequilas will show more body.

A first quick whiff will give you floral notes.

HERRADURA The Art of Tasting Tequila

I

n Mexico, tequila has been placed at the center of every traditional gathering since ancient times. Experience Herradura and learn to appreciate its subtleties.

Some purists say that food will interfere with your palate, but food and tequila make a lovely pairing. Cleanse your palate with crackers and water, or taste with food to see how the different expressions complement certain dishes.

PARTY PLATTERS We Appreciate A Two Day Notice On All Party Trays

727-787-6758 • 727-785-8873 3235 Tampa Rd., Palm Harbor, FL 34684

www.SurfandTurfMarket.com Small Serves

Med Serves

Large Serves

PLATTERS AND TRAYS

8 TO 12

16 TO 20

26 TO 30

CHOICE, Roast Beef, Ham, Turkey MEAT TASTER, Asst Cubed Meats CHEESE TRAY, Cheddar, Swiss, Amer CHEESE TASTER, Asst Cubed Cheese SHRIMP TRAY, Cleaned Shrimp CHICKEN WINGS, Mild Or Spicy VEGGIE TRAY, Carrots, Celery, Etc FRESH FRUIT TRAY, Asst Fruit DEVILED EGGS FINGER S’WICHES, Ham, Egg, Chick.

U-PEELUM SHRIMP, In The Shell CHICKEN ROLL-UP TRAY FRESH MOZZ & TOMATO SUSHI & SASHIMI TRAY 30,60,90 Pcs. SEARED AHI TUNA BEEF TENDERLOIN TRAY TENDERLOIN CARPACCIO

$31.99 $31.99 $24.99 $24.99 $45.99 $21.99 $19.99 $24.99 $15.00 $29.99 $39.99 $21.99 $29.99 $29.99 $39.99 $39.99 $39.99

$46.99 $46.99 $34.99 $34.99 $69.99 $29.99 $24.99 $34.99 $21.00 $42.99 $59.99 $35.99 $39.99 $44.99 $49.99 $54.99 $54.99

$61.99 $61.99 $45.99 $45.99 $84.99 $39.99 $29.99 $44.99 $27.00 $62.99 $74.99 $49.99 $49.99 $69.99 $69.99 $69.99 $69.99

HOT HORS D’OEUVRES

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SALADS & SPREADS

CRAB STUFFED MUSHROOMS ITALIAN MEATBALLS W/SAUCE SPINACH BALLS MOZZ CHEESE STICKS CRAB BALLS STUFFED PARM OLIVES CHINESE POTSTICKERS COCONUT SHRIMP BAKED BRIE W/FRUIT MINI KBOBS CHICKEN OR BEEF

$6.49/DOZ $3.99/DOZ $3.99/DOZ $3.99/DOZ $4.59/ DOZ $3.99/DOZ $7.99/DOZ $7.99/DOZ $34.99 EACH $1.79 EACH

SHRIMP SALAD CHICKEN SALAD TUNA SALAD HAM SALAD SMOKED FISH SPRD CRAB SALAD CRAB CHEESE SPRD JALAP CRAB CHEESE SM. SALMON SPRD MINI SHRIMP KBOB

MINI DESSERT TRAY

20 PCS/ $25.50

40 PCS/ $42.00

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$8.99 LB. $6.99 LB. $4.99 LB. $4.99 LB. $6.99 LB. $2.99 LB. $4.99 LB. $4.99 LB. $4.99 LB. $2.79 EA.

60 PCS/ $65.50

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Then a deep sniff from the center will reveal a different bouquet. This is a sneak preview of the taste — as much of what you taste corresponds to what you smell.

Take a small sip of the tequila first to get used to the alcohol taste. Then a second sip and keep it in your mouth. Breathe in through your mouth and exhale through your nose to perceive the aromas. Swirl the third sip inside your mouth and you’ll experience more of the taste. Think of flavor cues (e.g., fruity, spicy) and texture descriptions (e.g., smooth, oily).

Enjoy and assess the flavor that lingers after swallowing the tequila.

For more information, visit www.herradura.com

T-Shirts, Toddlers to Adults 180 John’s Pass Boardwalk 727-397-6191

Est 1982

172 W Johns Pass Boardwalk Madeira Beach, Fl 33708

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Rescue. Rehab. Release.

In an average year, CMA responds to many dolphin, whale, and otter strandings and hundreds of sea turtle strandings. Rescued animals are brought back to CMA for immediate treatment and rehabilitation with the hopes of returning them back to their natural environment. After the best care available, many animals are released. Some cannot be released and depend on CMA for their longevity. Their stories are touching, inspiring and remarkable.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is not a typical aquarium. It’s a working aquarium providing medical treatment for marine animals — an animal hospital that guests can visit. You can touch, learn, and see: Rescued dolphin, otters and sea turtles; Hourly animal care and training presentations; Underwater viewing of native sharks and fish; Informative exhibits on animal rescue, rehabilitation and release; Silky stingrays in the “hands-on” exhibit Stingray Beach; Starfish, sea urchins snails and other marine invertebrates; and huge sea turtle shells.

The Clearwater Marine Aquarium is located at 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, 727-441-1790; www.cmaquarium.org

Bok Tower Gardens offers visitors Florida’s most abundant opportunities for aesthetic, cultural and personal enrichment. The lush landscapes of the gardens, the majesty and music of the Singing Tower with its 60-bell carillon and the splendor of create an experience that inspires all who visit.

Acoustic Eidolon captivates audiences with their blend of Celtic, folk and classical genres.

- See a blacksmithing demonstration by one of the artisans from the firm who created the Singing Tower’s Great Brass Door and iron gates. & .

Thursday, February 12 - Enjoy an afternoon playing bridge. Party includes a dessert buffet, wine and other beverages. A grand prize and door prizes including Gardens membership basket will be awarded.

- Bells ring in romance on Valentine’s Day from the majestic Singing Tower with some traditional romantic favorites.

The 1930s Mediterranean-style Pinewood Estate will be the elegant setting for an evening of epicurean delight á la Romana and strolling Italian musicians.

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- Enjoy special carillon music featuring lively Irish melodies. Free with admission to the Gardens. . “Music LIVE!” maestro Bill Doherty and the talented singers bring the best of Irish music to your enjoyment.

- Bob Patterson’s Florida is a wild place, brimming with colorful characters, native history, danger, magic and humor.

For more information, visit www.boktowergardens.org or call 863-676-1408.

World Resort with a Disney Parks “first” — guests can get free admission to a Disney theme park on their birthday in 2009. It’s all part of a travel trend called “celebration vacations.” that will bring the television and pop culture phenomenon to life at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, opens February 14th. The attraction will be located at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park and will follow the model of the high-energy show.

Disney guests will be able to experience an audition process, open to all eligible to register, where guests perform “live” in front of a

One-hundred teens from across the country with big dreams and aspirations will be Steve Harvey with Disney Dreamer’s Academy. celebrated during Disney’s Dreamers Academy with are a limited number of staterooms available Steve Harvey, Feb. 12-15, at Walt Disney for this special offer. Visit disneycruise.com/ World Resort. Disney’s Dreamers Academy kidsfree or call Disney Cruise Line at 888/ will include workshops DCL-2500. with Disney cast mem- To bers and executives, sescelebrate the new DVD “Tinker Bell,” sions with entertainment celebrities and professional athletes, and time to enjoy the Disney theme parks – where student participants can see, first-hand, the results of people who turned their dreams into careers as “Disney dreamers.” Participants will learn about careers in everything from culinary arts to animation, set design and show proTinkerbell and her fairy friends. duction to the business Ryan Seacrest at the American Idol attraction. of sports and more. For Disney’s most famous fairy and four of her more information, go to Disney’s Hollywood Studios producer for the best friends are featured in a meet-and-greet steveharvey.com/disneysdreamersacademy. chance to be cast in a theme park show. If experience in Mickey’s Toontown Fair at shown to have that star quality during the Magic Kingdom. screening process and after backstage preparation -- working with a vocal coach, hair and make-up -- it’s lights up and - Dine among the dinoshowtime for the lucky guest in front of a saurs at T-Rex: A Prehistoric Family “live” audience and a panel of judges.

Adventure, A Place to Eat, Shop, Explore Guest performers with the highest votes and Discover at Downtown Disney. T-Rex will compete in an end-of-day Grand features dining and retail in a familyFinale show at Walt Disney World, and the friendly interactive prehistoric environwinner of the Grand Finale show will ment. The concept is built around water, receive a guaranteed reservation for a fire and ice: Guests are greeted with lifefuture regional stadium audition -- to size animatronic dinosaurs among cascadensure no waiting in long lines -- for the ing waterfalls, bubbling geysers, a fossil “American Idol” TV show. But when it dig site and much more. This “treat for all comes down to the television show audifive senses” includes artifacts such as fostions, everyone is treated equal. sils that are hundreds of millions of years old, animatronic dinosaurs, and even a The party’s ready to begin at Walt Disney meteorite. The theme carries over to the menu. this Winter and Spring. Disney Cruise Line is making it easier than ever for families who - A high-energy have dreamt of taking a Disney cruise vacation cast of 14 singers and dancers takes to the to sail the magical ship with a “Kids Free” spestreets of Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the cial offer on three-night cruises this winter and new guest-immersive experience, “High spring. Guests 12 and under can sail free on School Musical 3: Right Here! Right Now!” three-night voyages aboard the Disney Wonder Celebrating the energy of the movie “High when accompanied by two full-fare paying School Musical 3: Senior Year,” the show guests within the same stateroom. This offer is takes place on a traveling “rock concert” stage. valid for most sailings through May 28, 2009, For more information on Walt Disney and covers a variety of stateroom categories, World, call 407/824-4321 or visit ranging from deluxe family staterooms with disneyworld.com. verandahs to standard inside staterooms. There www.AccentOnTampaBay.com on Tampa Bay

ORLANDO HAPPENINGS o follow the theme of Orlando’s new campaign, “Orlando Makes Me Smile,” they’ve created the Orlando Smile Card, offering bundles of free smiles (aka free deals) throughout the destination. These free smiles will be effective from now through June. The offers cover accommodations, attractions, dining and more and range from stay two nights get one free and kids stay free to free parking, free tokens in the game room and even buy one attraction ticket and get a kid’s ticket free. Check out the program’s Web site, bundlesoffreesmiles.com. Here are a few

examples: Orlando Balloon Rides – Buy 1 adult ride and get a free kids ride; Pirate’s Dinner Adventure – Buy 1 adult ticket and get a free kids ticket; Boggy Creek Airboat Rides – Buy 2 tickets and get the 3rd free. Free offers are redeemed by downloading an Orlando Smile Card at bundlesoffreesmiles.com. Visitors simply show the card to participating establishments to lock in the “Bundles of Free Smiles” offer.

George Balanchine is one of the 20th century’s foremost choreographers, and one of the pioneers of American ballet. His work formed a bride between classical and

modern ballet. Orlando Ballet at Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre. www.orlandoballet.org Explore historic buildings, wilderness hikes and much more. There are bus tours and hay rides of the wetlands. For the kids, there will be a bounce house and a rock climbing wall. Please do not bring your pets, there are wild animals. Fort Christmas Historical Park. www.cityoforlando.net/public_works/wetlands/ Enjoy a full day of festivities including a Lincoln look-alike contest, fun birthday party activities, and more. The five dollar bill and penny feature Lincoln, so adults enjoy $5 admission and children ages 5-12 pay only a penny.

The Orange County Regional History Center. www.thehistorycenter.org

Hard Rock Live and WHTQ present Jimi Hendrix’s “Are You Experienced”, a Classic Album’s Live concert.

Hard Rock Live, Universal Blvd. http:// www.hardrock.com

The celebration will be a turbo charged program highlighting the best of Orlando Ballet at the Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre. www.orlandoballet.org Guests are transported back to the 1800s with the help of their own pirate mascot such as the powerful Andres the Orange or the romantic Pirate Blue. Cannon blasts; pyrotechnics and a liberal dose of wit and wizardry enhance the guest’s pirate experience. Guests dine on a fourcourse spread. 6400 Carrier Drive, Orlando; 407-248-0590; www.piratesdinneradventure.com - Experience a storybook tale of excitement and intrigue. More than 60 horses are used to create a unique show. The show includes a 3-course dinner. 3081 Arabian Nights Blvd., Kissimmee; 407-239-9223; www.Arabiannights.com 28

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SeaWorld presents Bud & BBQ 2009, a sizzlin’ celebration with plenty of live music, great food and ice-cold beer.

Celeb Lineup: - Feb. 7, - Feb. 14, - Feb. 21, - Feb. 28.

Blake Latin Cultures Come Alive during Sea Shelton World’s Orlando’s Viva La Musica Celebration, selected days in the spring, 2009. Hot music and spicy foods combine to create a vibrant Latin flare.

Dance the day away to a fiery beat, sample tasty Latin foods plus enjoy all the SeaWorld shows, rides and attractions. Check SeaWorld’s website for dates and entertainment as it is announced.

For more information, call 888-800-5447 or visit SeaWorld.com.

T

he streets of Universal Studios theme park come alive for the largest Mardi Gras celebration outside of the Big Easy, Feb. 7 - April 18, Saturdays and selected nights. The event features spectacular parades with colorful floats, extravagantly costumed characters, a live concert series that boasts some of today’s hottest musical performers, delicious New Orleans-style cuisine and plenty of beads to throw around.

Admission is included with a regular Universal Studios Florida ticket.

ENTERTAINMENT LINEUP: FEBRUARY: 2/7 - KC and the Sunshine Band; 2/14 - Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons; 2/15 - The Village People; 2/21 - Ne-Yo, Pat Daddy Mac Blues Band; 2/ Benatar 28 - Pat Benatar & Neil Kelly Clarkson Geraldo MARCH: 3/7 - Barenaked Ladies; 3/14 Montgomery Gentry; 3/21 - Collective Soul; Neil 3/27 - Boys Like Girls; 3/28 - Kelly Clarkson Garaldo ww.universalorlando.com

The Upper Pinellas African Violet Society Annual Show and Sale undreds of beautiful violets and other Gesneriads will be on display at the African Violet Show at Sunken Gardens Feb. 7-8. The theme for the 2009 show is “50 Years and Still Growing”. The sale will offer many varieties of flowering violets, starter plants and leaves as well as a large selection of Gesneriads and supplies.

UPAVS also has the largest selection of African Violet plantrelated supplies in Florida. There will be people on hand to answer any questions you may have on growing violets and other Gesneriads.

Sunken Gardens is a botanical paradise in the midst of a city.

As St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum, this 100 year old garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region.

Unwind as you stroll through meandering paths, with exotic plants from around the world. Explore cascading waterfalls, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers and a walk through butterfly encounter.

Sunken Gardens provides garden tours, horticultural programs, special events, and field trips.

Show and Sale Hours: Feb. 7: 10AM - 4PM, Feb 8: Noon 3PM. Admission to the show is free with the price of admission to Sunken Gardens, and Sunken Gardens honors reciprocal memberships with other botanical gardens. Admission is $8 adults, $6 seniors (55+) and $4 children (2-11).

Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 4th Street N., St. Petersburg; 727-551-3100; www.stpete.org/sunken

A Botanical Experience Awaits You...

• Discover the beauty of a 100 year old botanical paradise.

• Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers and the walk through butterfly encounter.

• Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $8 Adults; adults; $6 seniors 55 & up; $4 ages 2 3 to 11 $8 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100 30

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he 2009 Bay Area Renaissance Festival continues at its location adjacent to the Museum of Science and Industry, (MOSI) in Tampa.

Enjoy a recreated English village set in the 16th century as the king, queen and court visit the village where the townspeople provide entertainment, music, art, food and fun for all.

The Festival runs on weekends from February 21 through April 5, including Friday, March 13, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., rain or shine!

Stages and wandering street theatre will feature jugglers, magicians, and musicians among other specialty acts. Live armored contact jousting will be held daily, human chess matches, minstrels, maidens faire, peasants, fools and royalty are but a few of the costumed villagers performing throughout the festival.

Shops will be offering a wide array of hand-crafted wares including jewelry, pottery, leather, artwork, footwear, glass artistry, clothing, furniture, sculpture, psychics, hair braiders and more.

The festival has always been know as a family event and this year is no exception. The Children’s Realm includes free crafts and activities.

And of course, there’s the food, and lots of it! Old favorites turkey drumsticks, Scotch eggs, and apple dumplings, will be offered along with a lot of new food choices prepared fresh at the festival. Quest your thirst with soda, beer, wine, iced tea, lemonade, fruit drinks and water.

Weekend Themes: .

Highland Games, Scottish vendors and clans.

Military weekend discount.

T

Spanish foods.

Tickets are Adults $16.95 and $13.95 in advance; Seniors: $8.95; Children (5-12) $ 8.95 and $ 5.95 in advance. Children (under 4) are Free. Tickets are available at the Gate as well as Walgreens and MOSI (after Feb. 13), and Sweetbay after March 9.

For more information call 800-779-4910; www.renaissancefest.com. Fowler Avenue and 46th Street (at MOSI), 11315 N. 46th St., Tampa.

Chocolate & wine festival.

Pet Fest, Belly Dance Competition, juggling competition, sign language Saturday.

Homebrew displays, Homebrew competition, beer vendors with tastings and Irish events. .

Educational events. .

Mass vow renewals and inventor’s exhibits. . Nautical nonsense and biker weekend.

Flower festival, longbow competition and

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ART LINES Hyde Park Village Art Fair Juried Art Show Exhibition of the works of Violetta Shutmeyzen Chandler The St. Petersburg Museum of History will host an art exhibition of the works of Violetta Shutmeyzen Chandler, Russian American Impressionist. A total of 30 original works of Art, covering specific locations in and around St. Petersburg, Florida will be on display Jan. 16 - March, 2009. The exhibition is entitled: “The Russian Connection: Scenes from St. Petersburg, Florida.”

Born near Odessa, Ukraine, with a talent for art, like the four generations before her, Violetta has taken her gift and not only made it her passion but a successful career. She’s been recognized for teaching oil painting at the prestigious Ringling School of Art and at St. Petersburg College. Violetta’s admission into the “International Biennial of Contemporary Art” resulted in her invitation to participate in the 2007 exhibition in Florence, Italy. In addition to painting in Russia, Italy, and the United States she is planning an extended trip to the Caribbean and to Mexico. The exhibition is being held to promote the St. Petersburg Museum of History and to create awareness of the local Russian culture.

SPMOH is located at 335 Second Avenue NE, St. Petersburg, Florida. (727) 894-1052; www.spmoh.org

The Hyde Park Village Art Fair returns for its 20th anniversary on April 4–5. This two-day event brings together an eclectic mix of the nation’s most talented artists who will collectively display over $15 million in artwork. All of their artwork is original and handmade in America. The artists will line the streets of Hyde Park Village, and the public can meet and talk with the artists personally, asking questions about their art and inspirations. The media represented include paintings, sculptures, photos, glass, wood, jewelry, collage, and ceramics.

Admission is free. www.artfestival.com. _____________________________________

Superb examples of pottery from the American Arts and Crafts movement by such esteemed potteries as Rookwood, Grueby, Newcomb College, Marblehead, Teco, Saturday Evening Girls, and Overbeck.

Dürer is considered the greatest German artist of the Renaissance era.

This exhibition offers an exclusive look at the artist’s innovative interpretations of sixteenth century Christianity and his position as a criti-

Motorsports Artist

T

ampa native, self-taught artist (and cat rescuer!) Kip Cummins specializes in motor sports painting — particularly Formula 1.

Born and raised in Tampa, Kip went to Plant High School where he played football

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An exhibition of 29 large-format Polaroid photographs created from the early 1980s through the mid-1990s.

These internationally recognized photographs capture Weimaraner dogs displaying human characteristics while appearing to be engaged in humanlife experiences.

The exhibition includes early hand-painted gelatin silver prints as well as large-format Polaroid Image Transfers.

Tomczak’s works are created using a laborintensive technique that produces images with the pictorial quality of watercolors.

The Leepa-Rattner Museum is at 600 Klosterman Rd., Palm Harbor; (727)712-5762; www.spcollege.edu/central/museum of 250, and come with a certificate of authentication showing the number and reproduction limit.

Although Kip has moved to Alpharetta, GA, he still has friends and family in the Tampa Bay area, and shows his work here occasionally.

In addition to his love of art he also has a love of animals and has helped care for 34 rescue cats over the past eight years.

For more information, visit Kip’s website:www.motorsportsartworks.com

Kip Cummings

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cal figure between Gothic naturalism and Italian humanism.

The Museum of Fine Arts is located at 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-896-2667, for more information. www.finearts.org _____________________________________

and baseball. In his senior year, under the legendary coach Roland Acosta, his team went to the state football playoffs which he feels began Plant’s status as a football power. Kip claimed “No one from my high school days would ever in their wildest dreams think I would ever become an artist — much less an artist the specializes in a very European sport Formula 1 racing.” With his intensity and use of bold colors it suits the sport very well.

Kip’s paintings can be seen on, and ordered from, his website. All his giclee and limited edition prints have a reproduction limit www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Antiques

by Dr. Lori

wintertime longing for love dates back to the original February 14th holiday honoring the Christian martyr, St. Valentine.

Persecuted by the Roman Emperor in 273 AD, today St. Valentine is honored by our tradition of sending romantic cards and love letters, candy, and flowers. While Valentine’s Day prompts many of us to consider issues of the heart, the history of love symbols has a great deal to do with the concept of things intertwined, like a couple’s shared love.

The love knot has a long and interesting history. Some legends indicate that sailors were the first to introduce braided rope and knotted jute in the form of a love knot for their beloved as they sailed the high seas.

Crewmen on ships would use their knot-tying skills in order to impress their lovers as they counted the days before returning home from voyages at sea. Love knots were retained among personal effects and often integrated into laced collars, bracelet or wrist bands, and costumes of the late 19th Century.

In addition to coveted love knots, other love symbols from a sailor’s life included carved scrimshaw jewelry or sailor’s valentineswooden love boxes enhanced with seashells. These objects were often exchanged gifts of sailors and their loved ones. Some sailor’s valentines, those extraordinarily decorated boxes or shadowbox style picture frames, range in value depending on various factors including condition, age, and intricacy of design. Sailor’s Valentines (three dimensional pictorial cards made of seashells) and scrimshaw featured sentimental images of the sea. A piece of scrimshaw often depicted a realistic image of the sailor’s ship on the high seas. Made by the sailor’s own talented hand, heart shaped scrimshaw acted as popular sailor’s valentines. The heart shape was crucial to the design and depending on age, condition, and quality, 19th Century scrimshaw pendant valentines range in value from $2,500 to $10,000.

Like sailors, lovers from all parts of the world who were unfortunately parted by circumstance, distance, or social custom used the concept of intertwined knots to profess their love, too. It is little known in the western world that young Muslim women living in socially strict households historically pledged their love to young gentlemen via messages woven through knotsthe knots of carpets, that is. This interesting and longstanding Arabian custom made the knot a well-documented symbol of unity and togetherness.

Historically, love symbols are typically found on the hand or worn close to the heart. Wedding rings, eternity bands, and pendant necklaces all fall into this category, yet, one of the most interesting and symbolic rings is the age-old claddagh. Unmistakable in its form showing a central heart topped by a crown and held on both sides by two hands, the claddagh ring is associated with eternal symbolism. The hands represent friendship, the crown denotes loyalty, and the heart, of course, symbolizes love. This celtic mainstay has become an evident love symbol on objects as diverse as 14 karat gold royal jewelry to innovative tattoo and body art designs.

Artists on the contemporary art scene have also addressed the subject of interlaced and intertwined forms. Some examples include the mathematically-inspired drawing entitled Knots

by M. C. Escher (1898-1972) and the large-scale cast bronze sculpture of gnarled roots by Steve Tobin sited near New York City’s Wall Street & Broadway referencing a historic sycamore tree that protected St. Paul’s Chapel from the falling debris of the September 11 attacks. Some things, like the joining of hearts, never go out of style.

Ph.D. antiques appraiser, Dr. Lori hosts the TV talk show Comcast Tonight, antiques appraisal events, and antiques themed vacation cruises.

For information, visit www.DrLoriV.com, or call (888) 431-1010.

CURRENT EXHIBITS: St. Petersburg College: Legacy of Leadership thru March 29th

UPCOMING EXHIBITS: Greater Pinellas Civic Assoc. opens April 18th Pinellas County Girl Scouts opens April 18th Audubon Society Opens April 18th Call to Artists for Diversity in Aviation Art Exhibit Now-June 19th (Visit the website to get full details)

Archives, Collections, Rotating Exhibits & Facility Rentals Visit www.spmoh.org to see all of the upcoming Spring Events The St. Petersburg Museum of History is family friendly.

Annual Membership only $50 for the entire family.

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BEAUTY & FASHION

B

iologique Recherche L’Eauxygenante is a protective hydrating, stimulating, toning and oxygenating multifunctional facial spray, which provides a vitamin mist containing high concentrations of A and C. A treatment in itself, L’Eauxygenante is used in several Biologique Recherche facials and skin care regimens. Active ingredients include: natural sources of vitamin C (kiwi extract and orange extract), Biologique Recherche’s exclusive oxygenating complex and edelweiss extract containing a high concentration of natural anti-free radicals.

The fluid is to be sprayed over skin after using cleansing milk and before serum and cream. It is also excellent to use throughout the day to refresh the skin.

You can find Biologique Recherche products in exclusive spas and medical practices, and online at www.biologique-recherche.com

M

icrodermaMitts are a 100% natural and chemical free alternative to Chemical Peels and Microdermabrasion. The MicrodermaMitt Face Mitt and Body Mitt are reusable, all natural exfoliating mitts that instantly and thoroughly remove the top layer of dead cells. As they exfoliate, they clean pores of oil, bacteria, lotions, soap and other buildup. Immediately, skin glows and becomes smoother.

Just wet the mitts with warm water and rub. In just a couple of minutes, beautiful and glowing skin looks and feels smoother, younger and healthier.

Visit www.microdermamitt.com for more information.

K

inerase Cream with SPF 30 defends skin from the #1 cause of premature skin aging while providing superior moisturization, improving skin tone and reducing the appearance of aging - gently and effectively.

The non-comedogenic, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free and dye-free formula is non-irritating and ideal for sensitive skin including those with dermatosis, eczema, and rosacea.

Key Ingredients are Kinetin, a plant-based technology, that improves the appearance of aging and sun-damaged skin.; Avobenzone, which provides protection against UVA rays; Homosalate, which absorbs UVB rays; and Octocrylene, a chemical UVB sunscreen with strong water resistant properties.

Visit www.kinerase.com for more information.

State-Of-The-Art Hair and Nail Salon “European School of Hair Design”

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P

evonia Botanica offers a comprehensive line of products to pamper and care for the face, body, hands and feet, as well as a line of products specifically formulated for men and sun care. Each Pevonia Botanica cream is formulated as an advanced microemulsion. This process allows for thorough and even skin penetration and preservation of skin’s natural moisturizing factor, enabling the skin to achieve optimum results.

Pevonia Botanica products are comprised of a selection of the finest natural botanical and marine ingredients including essential oils, hyaluronic acid, lactic acid, caviar and marine collagen, and many other vital components.

Ligne Myoxy-Caviar Caviar & Pearl Timeless Repair Cream is an anti-aging solution that smooths wrinkles, resuraces skin texture, revuvenates, and keeps skin hydrated.

Ligne Homme - Spa Care for Him is an age defying Caviar Balm, that repairs damaged skin, renews and restores moisture, and smoothes fine lines and wrinkles.

Ligne Tropicale - Tropicale De-Aging Body Line Saltmousse removes impurities and toxins by gently polishing, energizing and refining the skin.

For more information, visit www.pevonia.com.

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TRAVELOGUE

Westobou Festival and Southern Charm e had the pleasure of visiting Augusta, GA, during their First Annual Westobou Festival, which turned out to be a great success for the city.

The festival takes place over two weekends in September, and plans for 2009 are well under way. The city collectively opened its hearts and hospitality to all to show off their “goods” — and they have plenty of them.

W W

hat does Westobou mean? It is the former name of the Savannah River which runs through Augusta, and was derived from the Westo native American Indians that lived in the area. The Westobou River was important to the life of those early inhabitants, just as it has been to the area occupants down through the years to the present day. Modern Augusta has a beautiful tree-lined Riverwalk running along the Savannah, with museums, a hotel and restaurants. This was also the main site of the Westobou Festival, which gave a nod to the arts, entertainment and lots of good ethnic cuisine from around the world. Actually, the whole city embraced the festival, so there were Westobou-related activities everywhere, with 26 venues and over 200 performances.

One of the festival’s arts features was “Slow Dancing”, a magnificent display of 43 larger-thanlife, hyper slow motion video portraits of dancers and choreographers from around the world displayed individually, but simultaneously, on 3 huge screens. At first they appear to be still photographs, but as you watch you see barely perceptible movements. The photos are shot at 1,000 frames per second, whereas standard film is at 30 frames per second. Quite fascinating and mesmerizing.

Although Westobou was the draw the weekend we were there, we enjoyed a lot more that the city has to offer . . .

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Sunday Brunch. Their dinners showcase a sumptuous selection of steaks, seafood, burgers, and sandwiches.

If you’re lucky like we were, you might even get to see Mark Twain pay a visit. Actor Bob Rollins uncannily portrays Mr. Twain at age 70, telling stories and homilies to a rapt audience. Rollins is so well versed in the man, we felt like we were seeing Twain incarnate — Bob Rollins as Mark Twain especially in the Partridge verandah setting which was of his time period, although not his locale.

TRAVELOGUE cont...

The Partridge Inn

Photo courtesy Partridge Inn

e stayed at the beautiful 1836 Partridge Inn, which retains it’s classic Southern charm but has all the modern amenities you could want. Many heads of state and other luminaries have stayed there through the years, and wonderful old photographs in the public

“Slow Dancing” exhibit at the Westobou Festival.

36

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Photo courtesy Slow Dancing

areas attest to the hotel’s history. It is also a favorite hotel of participants and visitors of the Masters Golf Tournament played at the Augusta National every year.

The rooms are spacious with very comfortable beds. Our guestroom had a doorway to the verandah where we could sit and enjoy an evening breeze, or have a cup of coffee in the morning.

The Partridge Inn’s Verandah Grill Restaurant is a popular restaurant in the area, and is especially known for it’s award-winning

trolling along Riverwalk, we stopped at the Morris Museum of Art, which is beautifully laid out and lighted for their over 5,000 pieces of art dedicated to Southern art and culture.

Also on the Riverwalk is St. Paul’s Church, which is the oldest in Augusta, having been established in 1750. The present Georgian Colonial building was completed in 1919, after several churches burned down on that spot St. Paul’s Church through the years. The only relic from the original church is the baptismal font. Located in the church yard is a cannon brought from England in the 1730’s by General Oglethorpe (who founded and named the town Augusta after the then Princess of Wales in 1737.) ugusta has a lot of non-chain restaurants which are always a pleasure to experience. The Boll Weevil Cafe and Sweetery is located in an old cotton warehouse (1840), and they have kept the old brick walls and wood beams for a rustic atmosphere. Their sandwiches are unique and tasty (with quirky names), and their homemade soup delicious,

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but it is the giant 10” tall cakes that are the star at this eaterie.

When you first walk in, you see a glass display case with cakes unlike any you have ever seen before. One slice of these heavenly goodies is definitely enough to share with your party. Boll Weevil Another outstanding Cafe’s 10” tall cake restaurant is The Bee’s Knees Tapas Restaurant with a global reach, including Thai, Spanish, Cajun, Mediterranean, Japanese and French cuisine.

We had some incredible and unusual tastes that we are still talking about. One of which is their Avocado Chop Chop, a baked half avocado with crab & Japanese Aioli. Another is the Sesame Tuna Tartare, Diced Sashimi in a Sesame-Soy Sauce with Sticky Rice and Fried Wonton. Tapas is nice for sharing, but you may want to keep these dishes all to yourself. ugusta’s past is brought to life in the marvelous 1996 Augusta Museum of History, which covers 12,000 years of the region. Starting on the first floor you will find exhibits on the early inhabitants, up through the Colonial period, the Civil War, Reconstruction, to WWs I & II, and up to the 50s. Upstairs is the special exhibit gallery, which currently is showing the “Remembering the Augusta National”; “From Ty to Cal: A Century of Baseball in Augusta”; and “The Godfather of Soul, Mr. James Brown.”

James Brown had a desperate childhood in Augusta, but managed to climb up and out of destitution and become an important figure in the history of music. He also changed music.

In 1965, with “Papa’s Got a Brand New Bag,” he decided to shift the beat of his band. “I changed from the upbeat to the downbeat,” Mr. Brown said, “Simple as that, really.” He was widely imitated by other performers such as Michael Jackson and Mick Jagger. Things you may not James Brown’s know: James played drums, silk suit at piano, and guitar and wrote Augusta Museum of over 5,500 songs; He was a History life-long Republican and had dinner at the White House during the Nixon Administration. The James Brown exhibit runs through May, 2011.

There is a visitor’s center in the museum, and folks can pick up a pass for more than 50% off all attractions in Augusta. long the Augusta Canal are old cotton mills, and you can take a narrated canal boat ride to learn the history of these old buildings. The Augusta Canal is the longest continuing operating canal in the U.S., and was dug by hand mostly by African American, Irish, Italian and Chinese workers, starting in the 1840s. It connects to the Savannah River. It took five years to complete eight navigable miles, and in the 1880s it was widened, which took another three years. The canal was created to harness energy to run the mills, and used to transport goods between cities on boats that were pushed along by using long poles in Cotton loom display at the the shallow canal.

Enterprise Mill Today canoes and kayaks are available to leisurely enjoy the canal and maybe catch sight of some white tailed deer, otters or beavers. Fishing is also good, with 67 different types of fish in the waterway.

The canal still provides drinking water and electricity for some of the buildings. One of which is the Enterprise Mill, which is now a museum about the canal and the cotton industry. Displays include functioning textile looms, life-sized models of canal construction and mill worker life, giant turbines in action, and other authentic artifacts. Back in the day, there were no child labor laws, and children worked 12 hours a day, 6 days a week alongside the adults in the mills.

concerts along the street. We visited the Zimmerman Gallery, owned by working artist, Lou Ann Zimmerman, who also happens to be one of the elite group of Whiskey Whiskey painter Lou Ann Zimmerman Painters. It is an exclusive club with only 150 members, and they specialize in miniature painting. The name “Whiskey Painter” comes from the first such artist in the 1950s who visit his favorite watering hole with a little pad of paper and paints, and dip his brush into his glass of booze to the amusement of his friends.

His “whiskey paintings” soon became a desired commodity. Today’s whiskey painters just use a few drops of whiskey in their water, more just for tradition. art of the Westobou Festival was a show at the Imperial Theatre, a wonderful old 1918

establishment that has been refurbished to reflect it’s former glory. We enjoyed the Augusta Opera’s presentation of “Sweeney Todd”.

Also part of the Westobou Festival, the eclectic Off-Broad Street theatre Le Chat Noir presented “Forbidden Broadway” which is a hilarious twisted “Forbidden musical comedy Broadway” at Le Chat Noir about familiar Broadway show tunes. The four person cast performed brilliantly with no stage sets, and just a few props.

The showbiz mantra is “Leave them wanting more” and they did. ugusta left us wanting more also. We’d like to go back — maybe in September to see what new delights the city and Westobou have to offer.

n downtown Augusta, art galleries, studios, specialty shops and restaurants have revitalized Broad Street into a charming artsy colony. On the first Friday of every month, on what is known as “Artist’s Row”, the various shops have receptions in conjunction with free

www.delta.com www.augustacanal.com www.augustamuseum.org www.beeskneestapas.com www.thebollweevil.com www.imperialtheatre.com www.LCNaugusta.com www.themorris.org www.slowdancingfilms.com www.partridgeinn.com 2009 dates are 9/1828/09. www.westoboufestival.com www.AugustaArtistsRow.com

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on Tampa Bay

GAMING SCENE

e so enjoyed our stay at Wynn last year, we were looking forward to experiencing the newly opened Encore, which we had the pleasure of doing recently. Although the buildings look the same from the outside, the inside has gone in a somewhat different direction. Gone is the old casino rule of “Keep daylight out of the casino — we don’t want anyone to know what time it is.”

Although Wynn Resort uses some natural light, Encore is flooded with it throughout the property — and it’s a very welcome change for Las Vegas. Full of beautiful skylights, Encore is also packed with gorgeous trees, and plants which are delivered daily from all over the world. A butterfly motif sets the tone, and their signature color is red, which is played throughout the resort. ncore is catering to a more elite clientelle with 2034 total guest rooms and raised

level of sophistication. The resort rooms are all nicely laid out 745 square foot open-plan suites. Our guest room was reminiscent of a 30’s “Moderne” style room. We pictured Jean Harlow lounging on the couch. The beautifully appointed room in beige and white with black touches, has floor to ceiling windows and a full mirrored wall. One would expect the bed to be luxurious in a Wynn property, and it most certainly is, with

RUSSELL MACMASTERS

ntertainers usually wait until their encore to give their audience their best.

Although he is not an entertainer but rather a hotelier/dream maker, we do believe Steve Wynn has done just that with his new Las Vegas resort/casino, Encore — the mirror double to his Wynn resort. The two gleaming bronze glass buildings rise up on the Vegas strip and take center stage.

lthough you could spend all your time lazing in the room with great and fast room service, the restaurants downstairs are too inviting to miss. The resort chose not to have a lot of restaurants, rather a few choice ones. Wynn — which is accessible from Encore by a seamless indoor walkway past new shops — has plenty of fine restaurants to choose from. The difference with the Encore restaurants, in keepaing with their more intimate theme, is they are smaller and — something you rarely find — their celebrity chefs are not just a franchised name above an entrance, but actually work in their kitchens.

In Botero’s, Chef Mark LoRusso creates delectable steaks and chops, while patrons dine surrounded by Fernando Botero’s wonderful sculptures and paintings.

Switch is manned by Chef Marc Poidevin, with Frenchinspired food, and guests can enjoy the subtle changes that occur hourly in the restaurant, with moving walls and lighting.

Sinatra is a rarity, in that the Sinatra family keeps Frank’s icon close to the vest, and is very careful about who gets to use his name. Steve Wynn and Frank were very good friends, and the family trusted him to do “right by Frank” when he decided to create a restaurant around Sinatra. The restaurant is designed the way Frank probably would have liked, and Chef Theo Schoenegger creates Mr. Sinatra’s favorite Italian dishes (with his own twist) for the guests. Old Blue Eyes’ music wafts through the room, and his favorite color, orange, is used for decor.

Society Cafe’s Chef Kim Canteenwalla prepares imaginative American cuisine and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. At

Resort Suite the aptly named “Dream Bed”. A large flatscreen TV cleverly rotates between the bedroom area and the living room area. The large marble bathroom also has a TV in it, along with all the amenities you can think of. A touch pad next to the bed controls all the different light configurations as well as the drapes and sheers. We did not see the larger Tower Suites or apartments, but it reportedly actually gets even more luxurious as you go upscale.

Steve Wynn and the Encore Atrium 38

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tion. The water is kept at 89°, which sounds downright toasty to us, but it’s actually cold to the performers because they have zero body fat. Each seat in the theater has it’s own little AC unit so guests don’t feel the humidity. With only 12 rows to the stage, there isn’t a bad seat in the house. At two shows per night, 107 loads of laundry and 1600 towels are used daily. Every day 66 pairs of specially made Capezio leather shoes are

Wazuzu, the pan-Asian cooking is prepared

by Chef Jet Tila, who definitely knows his way around sushi. The restaurant has an amazing 27 foot crystal dragon comprised of 90,000 Swarovski crystals and flickering lights on the wall.

All the dining spots either open up to a promenade or pool, in keeping with the light, airy feeling adopted at Encore. The poolside restaurants have glass partitions that can be opened or closed depending on the weather, and most have optional outside dining. Lighting and ambiance play an important part in the restaurants.

Encore’s bars and lounges are all beautiful, fun, and creative. The Victor Drai created XS nightclub is ultra-hip, and stunning, with an outdoor pool integrated into the design. Sixteen stripper poles adorn the room for the uninhibited.

(Remember, this is Vegas.)

Encore Spa BARBARA KRAFT

Botero Restaurant

Sinatra Restaurant

ynn’s aquatic spectacle, Le Rêve (The Dream), is a stunning production, from the design of the theater in the round, to the operation of the show, to the amazing athleticism of the performers. We got a sneak peek backstage before the show, and were amazed at what goes into each produc-

TOMASZ ROSSA

ncore’s casino is also intimate and elegant, with red chandeliers throughout, butterfly motif rugs and mosaics, and that lovely natural light. They have a separate Sky Casino for high rollers, which we didn’t see (a bit out of our league), but heard it is quite elegant.

Shopping Promenade

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dding to Wynn’s upscale shops, the promenade leading from Encore to Wynn includes Hermés, Chanel, and Rock & Republic’s first stand-alone boutique in the world. Among a few other new shops is the Homestore, which carries a lot of the unique items you will find at Encore in the guest rooms and public areas. Everything you see in Encore was specially designed for the resort. You can even order up one of those Dream Beds.

BARBARA KRAFT

XS Nightclub

repainted and re-glued. A wardrobe attendant walks 12 miles on an average show night performing their cue tracks. Twelve dressers are needed per show for 91 performers with 2,000 costume pieces.

Egads!

The ”Man of Many Voices”, Danny Gans is performing at the Encore Theater. One of the most popular entertainers in Vegas, Danny is the whole package — singer, comedian, actor, and impressionist.

e’ve seen and experienced a lot of spas and salons in our travels, but none can compare to the lavish Spa at Encore. A stunning lobby of gold and cream opulence leads to 37 rooms catering to a variety of treatments. The massage treatment rooms are perfect - with a very comfortable bed heated to your preference, and welltrained therapists at your service. Once you have tried a four-handed massage, it’s hard to go back. A pedicure at the Salon at Encore is also relaxing, with chairs facing floor to ceiling windows overlooking the strip. A 50minute pedicure includes exfoliation and a moisturizing mask finished with a polish.

The fitness center offers state-of-the-art equipment, pilates, spinning, yoga, and more.

Le Reve at Wynn fter several days of wonderful food and pampering, we are back home to reality, and still thinking about that Dream Bed. What can Steve Wynn do for another encore? We can only imagine...

For more information, visit www.encorelasvegas.com on Tampa Bay

ON THE BOOKSHELF that no spirit is responsible for the new murders; the truth is far worse than that. A new breed of serial killer has arrived in the Bay area in order to make his final stand.

Project Dark Savior is the first book in a series that introduces Detective Elizabeth Wylde, Tampa Police Department’s finest contribution to Law Enforcement.

Author, E. A. Mourn, lives in Tampa Florida with her family, and uses real places in Tampa in her book.

The book’s cover of the University of Tampa is by a local artist, Carrie Jadus.

PROJECT DARK SAVIOR, VOL. 1

By E. A. Mourn

T

he Westshore murders were a series of killings that will be remembered for years to come. A tragedy imposed upon Florida so grisly, it caused Floridians who were here in the seventies to recall the moment they first heard the name… Ted Bundy.

Billy Vegas was the most fascinating homicidal maniac Detective Elizabeth Wylde had ever encountered. He was responsible for elevating Wylde’s notoriety to zenith status, well beyond the fame she had earned in the early days as the Bureau’s highly publicized golden girl, but at an enormous price.

On the cusp of healing from the nightmare that has been her life after losing her family, the murders on the West Shore of Tampa begin again, as if the ghost of Billy Vegas had returned from beyond the grave to exact revenge for his execution. She quickly discovers

STUFF DREAMS ARE MADE OF

By Don Bruns

W

hile their last venture was hardly crowned with success, James Lessor and Skip Moore, (and their white box truck) are back.

When Reverend Preston Cashdollar and his traveling tent revival come to town, James and Skip reinvent themselves--as holy rollers.

But these two aren’t seeking salvation; they’re seeking the Almighty dollar. After all, Cashdollar’s prosperity gospel draws thousands of people with open minds-and open wallets. With a few modifications to the truck, Less or Moore Catering is ready to roll, and the entrepreneurs are born again, intent on making a mint by selling meager meals to the hungry masses.

Cashdollar may preach about seeing the light, but his organization has a dark side of greed, corruption, and murder. What in the name of all

NEW RELEASES

John Christenson, a man with an idea, modifies an automobile so that it can run without gasoline. Instead, it generates its own motive power as it travels down the road. His invention could quickly and profoundly change the world’s power structures by ending U.S. enslavement to oil. His plan, developed with the help of a beautiful TV reporter, Leena Delaney, is to drive the auto from New York City to San Francisco without using gasoline, and broadcast the trip on live national television. However, billions of dollars of income from oil will be lost if John and Leena have a successful trip. Countries and corporations alike try to kill John and Leena and destroy their amazing auto. Age Publishing Company. www.agepublishing.com Lindy Caton, middle-aged, attractive and recently 40

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that is holy have James and Skip gotten themselves into? This meals-onwheels venture is more like hell on wheels.

As James and Skip seek the truth, they’ll learn that the stuff dreams are made of may be their worst nightmare. They’ll either need to keep the faith, or run like the devil.

Author Don Bruns is an award-winning novelist, songwriter, musician and advertising executive — and a Sarasota resident. www.OceanviewPub.com

divorced, accepts a position as Director of the Moulton Foundation in small-town Louisiana to be closer to her aging father. While building her new life, she assumes care of three elderly, eccentric women living in subsistence.

As her relationship with them grows, she discovers the extraordinary secret of their past that sweeps her into the dramatic return of an itinerant son seeking to reconcile with his mother over an ancient act of cruelty. Iroquois Press. www.turnerpublishing.com Brenda Youngerman weaves a moving tale of siblings torn apart family. Billy, Wayne, Gwen and Grace each face unique different situations from sad and unhappy to loving and nurturing. Follow these young lives through the author’s insightful and thoughtful eyes. Eloquent Books. www.BrendaYoungerman.com

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Lynda Blake is a widowed single mom to 17year-old Sean whose time has come for a change of lifestyle. After mourning the loss of her husband, one day she finds herself helping her son’s classmate through a heated crowd of protestors at a women’s clinic, sparking a chain of events that will forever change her life.

She meets Dr. Michael Cameron, embarks on a romance --and possibly a future with the handsome doc-- until danger threatens the sanctity of her home and her resolve. She has to choose between her son’s safety and her own desire. Will there ever be room for Lynda in her own life? Langdon Street Press. www.langdonstreetpress.com

Jacqueline Fullerton weaves the supernatural and human greed into a tale of murder set against the backdrop of a sleepy little college town. Piercing the Veil has the unlikely crime-solving duo of court reporter, Anne Marshall, and her father’s

ghost who is investigating Tim Sherman, a divorcing wealthy businessman suspected of hiding assets in an offshore account. In the process of trying to prove his deception, the duo may have set into motion events that result in the murder of a key witness in his divorce trial. Anne and the ghost stumble into the killer’s path, putting Anne’s own life in jeopardy. A P Lee & Co. www.apleeco.com

With a long list of ethereal clients who need her help, Savannah lawyer Brianna Winston Beaufort’s career choice is beginning to haunt her. An already dead businessman needs Bree’s help to find his murderer and prove his innocence against the charge of greed, which comes from the mightiest hand of the law, the Celestial Court. And the verdict in this case could put Bree’s life on the line—as well as her client’s afterlife. Berkley. www.marystanton.com

The most elite special operations flying units in the world are the USAF 1st Special Operations Wing. Their missions include close air support, interdiction, covert insertion-extraction of personnel, and combat search and rescue. This colorful volume highlights both the highly trained Air Commandos and their specialized equipment by telling the unit’s fascinating operational history through first-hand stories and special access photographs. Zenith Press. www.zenithpress.com

Some of the biggest battles fought by the Marines during World War II took place on tiny islands scattered throughout the western Pacific.

Among these, the battles for Tarawa and the Marshalls were some of the fiercest and most decisive of the Pacific campaign — critical engagements that this pictorial history with hundreds of rare photographs brings vividly to life. Zenith Press. www.zenithpress.com

This book describes the Stonewall Brigade in combat from first mustering to bitter end, when only 210 ragged and footsore soldiers remained of the 6,000 who had served through the war. The Stonewall Brigade contains detailed order of battle charts, tables of organization and

equipment, and technical specifications of the brigade’s weapons. It also features special sidebars on the unit’s commanders. Color maps illustrate battles; and a combination of vintage photographs, images of contemporary reenactors, and paintings help to bring the Stonewall Brigade to life. Zenith Press. www.zenithpress.com

On September 2, 1945, surrender ceremonies officially ending World War II were broadcast worldwide from the deck of the USS Missouri. The ceremony also marked the end of one of the most eventful years for any vessel in the history of warfare. USS Missouri at War chronicles the career of this mighty warship, the last battleship built by the United States. This strikingly illustrated book offers an authoritative and close-up look at the life and work of a worldclass battleship. Zenith Press. www.zenithpress.com

Between late 1942 and early 1944, the Marines took part in a series of major campaigns in and around the Solomons-including New Georgia, Bougainville, and Cape Gloucester--all part of the effort to reach the Japanese at Rabaul. Author Eric Hammel has scoured the National Archives to unearth every extant combat photo of these campaigns that paved the way to victory in the Pacific. Zenith Press. www.zenithpress.com

The paratrooper, first used extensively in World War II, gives an airborne force a tactical edge.

Inserted into the battlefield from the air, the paratrooper can go into areas not accessible by land. This book describes what it takes to be a paratrooper. From parachute training to operating as part of an airborne force, readers learn about the tactics, the training, and the mental and physical attributes that make these special forces some of the most respected and honored elite soldiers in the military. Zenith Press. www.zenithpress.com

Each of the chapters in this book covers a major war that had a profound effect on the way our civilization was shaped. Author Joseph Cummins describes each conflict with vitality that brings the time, people, and crises to life in a narrative history style.

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Readers will gain a greater depth of understanding of these conflicts through the many details, stories, and characters that illuminate the bigger meaning and consequences of these clashes.

Zenith Press. www.zenithpress.com

In World War II the U.S. Army’s mechanized cavalry force served in an astounding variety of ways. Mechanized cavalrymen scouted and fought in tanks, armored cars, and jeeps; battled on and from the sea in tracked amphibians; stormed beaches from landing craft; slipped ashore in rubber rafts from submarines; climbed mountains; battled hand-to-hand; and even occasionally rode horses. Drawing on official after-action reports, contemporary combat records, personal recollections, and interviews conducted by the Army with soldiers shortly after battle, Steeds of Steel provides a vivid picture of what the war was like for the men of the mechanized cavalry. Zenith Press. www.zenithpress.com

As part of the My Animal Family series, this book takes young readers on a journey through the eyes of a baby animal. Each book contains a secret pass code that directs the child to a website where they can play games and earn points. The games are categorized by age group, so every child can find games appropriate to their own age. My Animal Family series contains award-winning DVD footage from the BBC library. Children will have fun learning about the animals and watching them in their native habitats. Ideals; www.idealsbooks.com

The Pet Emergency Pocket Guide is an easy-to-use reference for pet owners. This compact 3 x5 guide delivers step-by-step guidelines on daily care for pets, traveling with pets, emergency planning, and how to prepare and respond to a pet injury, illness or emergency. Easy-to-follow tabbed, color-coded, and illustrated sections both show and tell you how to best care for your pet on a daily basis, as well as what to do before, during, and after an incident. It also includes how-to first aid, emergency assessment with a glossary of signs and conditions, pet safety and preparation in the event of a natural disaster, the latest information on evacuation and sheltering, and a complete section on traveling safely with pets, including a pet travel kit checklist. Informed Publishing. www.informedguides.com on Tampa Bay

BEST BYTES SOFTWARE Complete everyday tasks like invoicing, bill tracking, check-writing and payroll.

Track sales and expenses and know where your business stands. Use the Customer and Vendor Centers to locate customer and vendor data. Download bank and credit card transactions into QuickBooks. Stay on top of your business with the Company Snapshot and over 100 customizable reports.

Skate 2 ups the ante in delivering an authentic skateboarding experience with allnew tricks that allow gamers to truly skate it their way – on and off the board. Equipped with double the bag of tricks, gamers are tasked to rebuild their career and revive the New San Vanelona skate scene. With their ability to get off-board to move objects around and with help from a crew of locals, players will embark on a mission to take back the city, one spot at a time.

TurboTax Deluxe helps find and maximize deductions. The software includes all the features in TurboTax Basic and guides customers step-by-step through mortgage interest, charitable contributions, education expenses, medical expenses and more. Not only does TurboTax Deluxe show taxpayers how to qualify for deductions, it also tracks how much they have saved.

For the first time ever Scorpion, Sub-Zero and the Mortal Kombat warriors battle with Batman, Superman and other popular DC Universe Super Heroes. Choose your side and challenge your opponents with a new fighting system including Freefall Kombat and Klose Kombat along with dynamic multi-tiered environments. Plus, pick your favorite character from MK or DCU and pursue a fighting adventure in the new single player mode with an intertwined storyline and two unique perspectives.

GAMES

The Lord of the Rings: Conquest puts you into the thick of the tremendous battle over The One Ring, playing out battles from both sides of the confrontation.

Conquest will let you take control of many of the characters and creatures from the series and pit them on any of the franchise’s famous battlefields. Practically the entire universe will be available for battle with up to 150 characters on-screen at any one time.

In a city where information is heavily monitored, agile couriers called Runners transport sensitive data away from prying eyes. In this seemingly utopian paradise, a crime has been committed and now you are being hunted.

You are a Runner called Faith - and this innovative first-person action-adventure is your story. Mirror’s Edge delivers you straight into the shoes of this unique heroine as she traverses the vertigo-inducing cityscape, engaging in intense combat and fast paced chases.

BOOKS

Killer Tips books are written with one goal in mind: to allow the reader to work faster and smarter with all sidebars, tips, and notes!

Here, Scott Kelby gives you only the best tips 42

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and info on Mac OS X Leopard, covering all of the new features, including Time Machine, the revolutionary and completely unique backup system.

Kelby’s trademark style both direct and humorous is easily accessible to all readers, who will appreciate all the great information here, as well as the book’s clear and focused presentation.

This book comes packed with tips, tricks, and lots of practical advice with everything you need to know to edit photos and create beautiful documents in Photoshop.

You’ll also find out which features work well, and which aren’t worth your time. Written with the clarity, humor, and objective scrutiny that are hallmarks of the Missing Manual series, Photoshop CS4: The Missing Manual is the friendly, thorough resource you need.

The Glossary of Digital Photography will appeal to advanced amateur photographers with more than an average interest in their hobby. With over 1500 words, abbreviations, and acronyms, this Glossary strives to help those involved in this cutting-edge industry to understand the language that makes it up.

The author has focused in and really narrowed things down to just exactly which Photoshop tools and techniques you have to know, and he found that there are just seven major tools, that we have to master to enhance our images like a pro. The magic of this book, is not just listing the seven tools and showing how they work. It’s how they’re used together, and how Scott teaches them (and makes it stick), that makes this book so unique.

SPORTS SHORTS Compiled By Al Martino Join thousands of Tampa Bay residents on March 28, 2009 at MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) to raise money and awareness for Autism. Plan to attend or participate as Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio addresses the crowd, DJ Elvis keeps the music playing, and Geoffrey the Toys ?R” Us Giraffe greets the kids.

In addition, all registered participants will receive free admission to MOSI following the walk. There will lots of fun activities for the children, local resources for families, and entertainment. Be sure to raise $100 to earn your commemorative Walk Now for Autism t-shirt.

For more information call (813) 407-1704 or visit tampa@autismspeaks.org

Ishikawa burst on the scene in 2007, when at only 15 years old he became the youngest winner ever of a men’s professional tournament on the Japan Golf Tour. Late last year, he also became the youngest player ever to reach the Top 100 in the World Golf Rankings, rising all the way to his current spot of #60 in the wake of his second victory.

“Ryo is a true rising star and appears to be the next big thing in golf,” said Gerald Goodman, tournament director, Transitions Championship. “We could not be more delighted that he will be joining us in Tampa for the Transitions Championship Tony Dungy where his talents will be on display for the world.”

Ryo Ishikawa The Transitions Transitions Optical has Championship For Healthy announced that Ryo Ishikawa, Sight tees off March 16 – 22, 2009 at Innisbrook Resort and Golf the young golf phenom from Japan, has accepted a sponsor’s Club in Palm Harbor, Florida. exemption and will participate in the Transitions Championship For more information visit en-us.transitions.com/outreach/ For Healthy Sight. The event takes place March 16 – 22, 2009 at championship/ Innisbrook Resort and Golf Club in Palm Harbor, Florida.

February 27th, 2009

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things around. They also did another interesting thing, they hired two of their own from the organization. Raheem Morris, 32, and Mark Dominick, 37. They know the players and the prayers know them.

By Barbara McGovern They seem to have a rapport and respect for each other. This should be hat a difference a few weeks make. In November visions a real asset on the of the Super Bowl danced in the Bucs field and in the heads , then, badda bing. Reality hit them in locker room. Maybe the head like a two by four.Not only did their we will see a little of “The Dungy dreams of another Super Bowl wither and Style” around here now. I never did die, so did Jon Gruden and Bruce Allen’s understand why someone would fell that dream of another season. Their expectations could motivate people by screaming and of more time to fix the franchise went up in yelling at them. That just never works. smoke, just like their season. The Glazers Good luck to Raheem, Mark, all the new had enough. They were patient, they coachers, the players, the Glazers and the extended Gruden and Allen’s contracts. They fans. It’s a new day in Tampa Bay. spent money and they had hope. At some Something I just thought of, one week the point even the most hopeful of people say headline said “ DUNGYS BACK’ and the there is no more hope. Time to turn around, following week the headline time to change. Just like the Country knew it read”GRUDENS GONE”.Strange how was time for a change, the Glazers knew it things work, isn’t it? was also time for a change. Jon Gruden felt Thank you Monte Kiffin and good luck. he was blindsided. Did he really? Did he Raheem Morris I’m sure you will enjoy working with your son, Lane. really mean that he had no idea what was coming? Oh please.

This is fun news. In October the Bucs and the Pats will Most of the fans were fed up, didn’t he get that? I suspect that a play a regular season game in London. Can I get credentials lot of the players were fed up. He missed that? He had to at for that game? Ronde Barber and Davin Joseph have been least suspect that the Glazers were fed up. I guess he didn’t get appointed to the NFC squad for the 2009 Pro Bowl in Hawaii that either. Maybe not, oh well, sorry Jon. in February. This is Davin’s first Pro Bowl and Ronde’s 5th.

The Glazer’s made a bold move . They were ready to put it Congratulations. Until next time, Go Bucs. all on the line. They brought in two really young men to turn

W

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Marty Sez...

Wii and Xbox.

After the extra point triumph, we

By Marty Peters did “Longest Throw. Most folks tried to chuck the ball as far as possible, with a The pressure was intense. All eyes turned to me. One couple spritely arms moment would decide if I would revel in the throes of getting the pigskin close to 50 glory, or fall into the bottomless chasm of defeat and agony. yards. A few individuals found more entertainment in trying Yes, I was about to attempt an to nail the workers who were extra point kick. downfield trying to gather up Before you scoff, I must the previous missiles (not inform you that this was not condoning this at all…just some afterschool playground reporting the scene). I’m going chip shot…nay, I was at the to say I threw it 42 yards, but if NFL Experience, where fans of you’ve ever been fishing with all backgrounds, and various me, you know all my catches degrees of sobriety, were all are at least 14 inches. yelling. Some offered Moving on, we tried some encouragement such as the sort of football obstacle course, ubiquitous cajun Rob Schneider consisting of running into two line “You can do it!”, some tackling dummies (no, not offered backhanded Detroit’s D-line), navigating a compliments like “he could series of cones, and tiptoeing probably kick it pretty far for a through an agility ladder big boy”, some just booed out (sidenote: what is the purpose of force of habit (must have of that squares drill anyway? Is been Eagles fans). there some penalty for stepping Nonetheless, your humble on the white lines on the field?) servant split the uprights and On to the kids area…plenty collected the adoration of the of ways for the little ones to crowd for about, oh, two burn off energy, which was an seconds, until the next in line absolute must after frosted told me to “get out of here” flakes and funnel cake. There (slightly paraphrased, since it was an incident at the bouncy was an Eagles fan, and this is a house, but I honestly did not see family magazine). the sign limiting folks to a Marty Peters, son Max & their new best friend So you may be asking, what certain height, and I was trying is the NFL Experience? Well, the powers that be wanted it to work on my calf muscles. to be a fun filled extravaganza for NFL fans both young and Sufficiently worn out, we turned toward looking at old. As such, they prudently left out some of the less multitude of displays. One cool exhibit allowed you to get a popular ideas, such as the: photograph taken with a superimposed image of a football • Drew Rosenhaus Contract Negotiation Variety Show player. Unfortunately, the choice was limited to 16 (comedy brought to you by Terrell Owens). particular football pros, and darn my luck, no Tony • The Hall of Second, Third, and Seventh chances Mandarich or Ryan Leaf pics. (hosted by Pacman Jones, special cross-sports appearance We finished the day looking at others do combine-type by pitcher Steve Howe). activities. They had a standing vertical jump. I can proudly • A haystack for the kids, as they all try to find the say that I can jump higher than a house, mainly because Lions’ first win for 2008. houses can’t jump (my six-year old is a contributing editor).

No, the NFL Experience did it right. They had a wide No, my vertical can be measured in millimeters, and my 40variety of football activities, with the emphasis on active, yard dash can be timed with a sundial, so you won’t be which is much appreciated given that too many children seeing me in an NFL uniform anytime soon. Unless, of nowadays are parked in front of the TV playing Wii and course, someone needs an extra point kicker…just let me Xbox. The kids need to get outside - so that dad can play lace up my Keds and I’m good to go!

Experience The NFL Avoid The Bruises

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