Accent On Tampa Bay #195, January 2014

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Accent On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 26, Issue 195 January, 2014 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Vicki Kolb Barbara McGovern Senior Sports Editor Peter Martino Graphic Designers Papande Newman Missy Lynn Contributors Marty Peters Deborah Quigley JoAnn Ryan Photographers Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photo courtesy of: Barry Manilow Mgmt.

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LOCAL FOCUS 17th Annual Downtown Dunedin Art Festival - Jan 11 & 12 Dunedin welcomes back its signature art festival 10 AM - 5 PM. This gallery style outdoor-juried art event will showcase a variety of original handmade art by the finest artists in the country appealing to all tastes and budgets. The eclectic displays will include a wide array of artistic media including paintings, sculptures, photography, ceramics, glass, wood, handmade jewelry, collage and mixed media. Art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to engage the artists and learn about the creative process. In addition there will be a free art giveaway, no purchase is necessary to participate. Admission is free and open to the public. Main Street in Downtown Dunedin. 561-746-6615. www.artfestival.com

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey - Jan 1-5 Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDS a the Tampa Bay Times Forum. Experience unimaginable family fun, as amazing performers from around the globe perform awe-inspiring feats of daring, spectacles of strength and thrills of wonder to summon the mythical and mysterious creatures of the past: a Unicorn, a Pegasus and a Woolly Mammoth. Join in for an unforgettable family night of legendary proportions.

Ringling Bros and Barnum & Bailey Presents LEGENDS! 4

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Festival of Chocolate - Jan 18 - 20 The Festival of Chocolate is the Largest All-Chocolate Event in the Southeastern United States featuring an incredible Vendor Showcase with sales of chocolates and treats from the region’s best Chocolatiers and Confection Companies; Demonstrations by World Class Pastry Chefs; Live Competitions by Pastry Professionals; Chocolate and Wine Pairings; a Chocolate Game Show Stage; The Math and Science of Chocolate; Kids-4-Chocolate Workshop; Crazy Chocolate Contests for children and adults; Interactive Chocolate Classes and much more. MOSI 4801 E. Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL. Sat: 9am - 6pm; Sun: 9am - 6pm; Mon: 9am - 5pm. www.tampa.festivalofchocolate.com/

January 10 - February 14

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asparilla is America’s and the World’s Oldest Pirate Festival and the 3rd Largest Parade in the USA. Every year, pirates and land lubbers alike come to the Bay they call Tampa and sack the city for loot and booty of all kinds. There be culture, pageants, balls, socials, Tampa’s finest citizenry dressed as pirates and over 60 Krewes in the Bay Area and beyond. The Gasparilla Children’s Parade is the largest parade of its kind in the United States and the main Gasparilla Pirate Fest Parade draws close to 500,000 people per year. Staged on beautiful Bayshore Blvd, winding into downtown along Tampa’s most prestigious waterfront homes, Gasparilla is an event not to be missed.

The Chil-dren’s Gasparilla Parade has been a part of Tampa’s Gasparilla celebration since 1947. It will begin at Bay to Bay Blvd. & Bayshore Blvd., proceed north along Bayshore, and end at Watrous/Orleans Avenues & Bayshore (approx. 1.4 miles). The Children’s Gasparilla Parade will be broadcast live on FOX 13, and will be streamed live on www.MyFoxTampaBay.com 12:00 PM Vendors and Activities for the children 2:00 – 3:30 PM Preschool Stroll 4:00 – 6:00 PM Children’s Parade 7:00 – 7:30 PM Piratechnic Extravaganza For more information, please visit www.gasparilla.com/

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Henry Plant Museum Gasparilla: A Tampa Tradition – Jan 17 – Feb 23 Enjoy the rich history of Gasparilla–Tampa’s oldest and most fun-loving community festival at the Henry Plant Museum. The new exhibit, Gasparilla: A Tampa Tradition explores Tampa’s premier party, attended by a motley crew of the famous and infamous, the beautiful people and bad dudes.

Find out who they were as we highlight pirate booty and things of beauty during the city’s only exhibit of Krewe of Gasparilla memorabilia-coronation robes, ball invitations, programs, crowns and costumes as well as vintage photographs of the invasion, parade floats, pirates and royal courts.

www.plantmuseum.com/

Historic Schooner to visit Tampa and St. Petersburg – Jan 15 – March 13 Celebrating the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner, the historic Clipper Schooner, Lynx, a War of 1812 Privateer Square-Topsail Schooner, will visit the Tampa Convention Center from Jan 15-22. 333 S. Franklin Street, Tampa.

The schooner sails over to St. Petersburg on Jan 23, for a visit until March 13 at the Harborage Marina at 1110 Third St. S. Visitors are able to tour the ship and even embark on a sailing adventure. The crew of the Lynx wears authentic maritime clothing from the early 1800s. The ship was built to near-exact specifications of the original Lynx. Climb aboard and step back in time as you relive history and feel the adventure.

For reservations call (866) 446-5969 or visit privateerlynx.org

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Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival - Jan 16 - 25 The 2014 Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival is the ultimate regional destination leading up to the Martin Luther King Holiday Weekend. This ten-day celebration includes live entertainment,

exciting cultural events, relevant health and money management workshops, renowned speakers, a music festival with national recording artists, food and craft vendors and more.

Tampa Bay’s annual family-friendly festival commemorates the many contributions and influences African Americans have on our society. Don’t miss the 14th annual Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival happening Jan. 16-25!

FREE events include: Be a part of the World’s Largest Electric Slide Line; Activities for Families and Friends; Health Screening and Children’s Village. National recording group, The Ohio Players, will perform at the 14th Annual Black Heritage Throwback Saturday Music Fest on Jan. 18. The

group is known for huge hits such as “Fire” and “Love Roller Coaster.” The family-friendly, two-day Music Fest will be held Jan. 18-19 at Curtis Hixon Park located at 600 N. Ashley Dr. Tampa, FL 33602 from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. www.tampablackheritage.org/

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20th Anniversary St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival Jan 18 - 19 This annual tradition, produced by American Craft Endeavors, features an eclectic mix of the nation’s talented crafters including leading local and regional talent. The event appeals to people of all ages including families, shoppers looking for unique and affordable gifts, as well as craft enthusiasts. 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM. 595 Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706. Free and open to the public. 561-746-6615. www.artfestival.com

Tampa Bay Home Show at Tropicana Field - Jan 24 - 26 Meet the area’s top home improvement experts January 24, 25 & 26 at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg. This event will feature over 500 exhibits relating to Florida homes and home improvement. Looking for kitchen cabinets, landscaping, spas/pools, home entertainment systems, remodeling or window experts? You can find all of that and more! Stroll through the aisles and find hundreds of project ideas and solutions.

See the latest in carpet and tile, air conditioning systems, pest control, fencing or storage solutions…. From home security to storm protection to greener living…

It’s all coming together under one roof at Tropicana Field. The Tampa Bay Home Show will also include a seminar series, featuring a lineup of entertainment, local experts and do-it-yourself ideas for your home, on both Saturday and Sunday. Enjoy a presentation and find the products you need for your dream project, all in one convenient location. Individual booths will feature local products and national name brands, new product lines, demonstrations, giveaways, advice and trade secrets. Hours: Friday 10am – 6pm, Saturday 10am – 7pm, Sunday 10am – 5pm. Admission and parking are free. Tropicana Field – Downtown St. Petersburg.

Saturday & Sunday Stan DeFreitas - host of “Ask Mr. Green Thumb” - Summer Color for a Summer Garden Jeff Monsein of Splat Paint - Artistic and Faux Finishes You Can Do Scott Kravetz Gulf Coast Area Renovation Sales Manager for Wells Fargo - Does Your Dream Home Need A little Work - how to refinance renovations 727-893-8523. www.tampabayhomeshows.com

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LOCALTOPIA - A Community Celebration of All Things Local - Sat, Feb 1 The Independent Business Alliance, Keep Saint Petersburg Local, will celebrate its 2-year Anniversary with LOCALTOPIA, “A Community Celebration of All Things Local,” presented by Mazzaro’s Italian Market featuring: Vendors from St. Pete’s favorite independent businesses for Shopping & Eating plus Service Providers and Non-Profits; Local craft beer garden with the “Drink Like A Local” draft beer truck serving beers from St. Pete and other carefully selected Florida craft breweries; Live music/entertainment all day on the Williams Park bandstand - Hideaway Living Room Live Hour, Jun Bustamante, the St. Petersburg Opera, the Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association performing during the lunchtime slot they used to play in the park, Rebekah Pulley, Betty Fox, Applebutter Express and more; Vignette seating areas created by St. Pete’s antique and vintage shops; Children’s area with special, engaging experiences with Creative Clay, the DMG School Project’s Mobile Glass Lab, music and more; Live painting by artists on unique canvases. 11 am - 7 pm. Williams Park, 330 2nd Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. Free family and pet-friendly event. www.KeepSaintPetersburgLocal.org/Localtopia

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Tampa Bay Senior Expo at the coliseum - Tues, Jan 29 The Tampa Bay Senior Expo is a special event designed to help seniors make the most of their golden years. For one day only, meet local professionals who offer expertise in financial planning, health, fitness, home improvement, recreation and more from 10 am – 3 pm. 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 informative seminars, and plenty of opportunities for one on one interaction with local health professionals. Visit with residential communities and local hospitals so you can make educated decisions. Free Admission and Free Parking.

The Coliseum – 535 4th Ave N., St. Petersburg, FL 33701. For more information 727-893-8523 or visit www.tampabayseniorexpo.com

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CHARTING THE LAND OF FLOWERS At The Tampa Bay History Center - thru Feb 16 A decade after Columbus sailed across the Atlantic, explorers were still speculating about the contours of the New World.

Although today’s experts remain uncertain about when, exactly, Europeans first set foot in La Florida, cartographers began to sketch the outlines of the peninsula by the early 1500s. By 1511, a historian named Peter Martyr labeled the unknown land north of Cuba “Isla de Beimeni,” the native Indian name for what is now Florida.

Martyr’s map is just one of more than 150 maps featured in Charting the Land of Flowers: 500 Years of Florida Maps at the Tampa Bay History Center. The most comprehensive exhibition of Florida cartography ever presented, Charting the Land of Flowers traces six centuries of Florida history, bringing together maps from museum and library collections around the world, many of which will be on view to the public for the first time.

Marking the quincentenary of Ponce de León’s 1513 landing on Florida’s shores, the exhibit offers a rare opportunity to see the world as the early European explorers saw it, and to watch the peninsula that would become one of our county’s most populous and diverse states evolve before their eyes. They’ll also see that much of the earliest European exploration of North America occurred not in New England, but in Florida, while early railroad maps and travelogues show how the state became an agricultural powerhouse and America’s No. 1 tourist destination.

Intricate and often vibrant pink, red, and purple hues abound the early maps presented in Charting the Land of Flowers are as much works of art as they are historical documents. Together with atlases, military maps, and satellite images, they chart 500 years of exploration, settlement, and growth in The Land of Flowers. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/

TradeWinds Island Resorts Hosts Away Lightning Game Watch Parties on the Beach TradeWinds Island Resorts is inviting hockey fans to head out to St. Pete Beach for fun-filled, familyfriendly Tampa Bay Lightning game watching parties all season long. This year, the action takes place at Guy Harvey Outpost, a TradeWinds Beach Resort. The games will be broadcast on a huge screen directly on the beach and ThunderBug and the Lightning girls will be on-hand with fun giveaways.

Food and beverages including cookout items and drink specials will be available for purchase. Coolers are not allowed, but fans are encouraged to bring their own beach chairs, umbrellas and towels. Open to the public. Guy Harvey Outpost, Beach front 6000 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach. Admission is complimentary. Parking will be available at the Guy Harvey Outpost and at the neighboring Island Grand (while available discounted from normal). For additional information, call (727) 367-6461 or visit www.JustLetGo.com/Lightning

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Wine, Women & Shoes at the Renaissance Hotel

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ver 400 women attended the sold out Wine, Women & Shoes to benefit the Children’s Cancer Center recently, at the Renaissance Hotel, International Plaza, The event was emceed by Jayde Donovan of 101.5’s Hot Mornings with Jayde.

Guests were escorted by Sole Men through the main doors. Once inside, women had a chance to sip wine from all around the world, shop at the marketplace with local and national vendors and nibble on hors d’oeuvres.

When the ballroom doors opened, guests heard a very touching speech from Jessica Fischer whose son Josh is in remission from Leukemia. She explained to guests how much the Center has meant to Josh and to her family.

The festivities continued with a live auction that included opportunities such as tickets to the Emmy Awards and a chance to visit locations James Bond movies were filmed. The evening continued with a fashion show with one-of-a-kind couture designs from Andrew Anderson, W by Worth, Urban Body Clothing, and Penelope T. The event ended with the Key to Closet enter-to-win — all women who had purchased a special bling-ring had a chance to win a closet full of clothes, accessories and other merchandise worth over $15,000 from designers such as Tory Burch, BCBG, and local retailers such as Cotton Colors, DKM, Paradise Island, Pink Palm, Why Not Boutique, El’Lay and Lululemon.

The Children’s Cancer Center is planning on making Wine, Women & Shoes their signature event and anticipate that next year’s soiree will be a sell-out even sooner. For more information, please visit www.ChildrensCancerCenter.org

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Jayde Donovan, from 101.5’s Hot Mornings with Jayde.

The Golden Paw Cheryl and Dr. Bruce Landon, presenting sponsors.

Patty O’Leary from CCC 16

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Jessica and Josh Fischer

January Events T

he Carrollwood Cultural Center, located at 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa, will welcome trumpet player Dan McMillion and his band, High Octane, when they open the Center’s 2014 entertainment line-up with a tribute to Maynard Ferguson on Jan. 11 at 8 p.m. In addition, the Center will also host acoustic “finger-style” guitar wizard Shaun Hopper, the Bay Area Saxophone Quartet, children’s performer Shana Banana, comedian G. David Howard, and will showcase Indian and Mongolian art in its gallery.

For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.carrollwoodcenter.org, call 813-269-1310, or visit the Center’s Box Office. The Carrollwood Cultural Center is a partnership between Hillsborough County and the Friends of Carrollwood Cultural Center.

Art Reception: Indian Art with Shyama Rangwala - Jan. 10, 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. FREE Shyama works mainly with acrylics on canvas and watercolor on fine art paper, but occasionally does collage, calligraphy, fabric painting, Henna art, and painting traditional designs on wood, pots and stone. She is a devotee of Krishna, a Hindu God, who is featured in many of her paintings. Her colors are bright and vibrant. Shyama’s work will be on display in the Gallery at Carrollwood Cultural Center through January. Other exhibiting artists in January include Michelle Miley and The Daughters of Genghis Khaan.

Dan Mcmillion and High Octane: A Tribute to Maynard Ferguson on Jan. 11 8 p.m. Known for his powerful trumpet, Dan McMillion and his High Octane Band pay homage to the greatest trumpet player in the world: Maynard Ferguson. Hear Maynard’s signature sound recreated

by Dan McMillion along with the stratospheric energy of High Octane.

Lipi’s One-Man Family Circus - Jan. 19 2 p.m. Stewart Lippe performs a fast-paced Vegasstyle circus show that incorporates juggling, unicycle, balancing, comedy and magic for the whole family.

Jazz With Jim Concert - Jan. 24 7:30 p.m. Jazz with Jim is a monthly concert hosted by Jim Burge and The Jazz Directions. The concert is best known for fusing personal stories by the musicians with popular jazz tunes suited for the month’s theme.

Guitarist Shaun Hopper - Jan. 25 8 p.m. Shaun Hopper’s finger-style guitar playing encompasses alternative, folk, classical, Celtic, pop, rock, jazz, blues and more.

Bay Area Saxophone Quartet Performance Jan. 26 2 p.m. BASQ is a group of local musicians who have been performing throughout the Tampa Bay area for almost three decades. Members of the quartet include Jay B. Starkey (soprano saxophone), Jim Burge (tenor saxophone), Ted Hope (baritone saxophone) and Craig MacDougal (alto saxophone).

Shana Banana’s Going Bananas For Peace Jan. 29 10:30 a.m. and 11:45 a.m. When it comes to bullies, don’t “monkey” around. Join Shana Banana as she sings about positive words, friendship, peaceful playing and what to do if someone who is supposed to be a friend doesn’t act like one.

Comedian G. David Howard - Jan. 31 8 p.m. When G. David set the world’s record in The Guinness Book of World Records for “cracking jokes unremittingly for 16 hours” (that’s 16 hours straight, without repeating a joke and without a break of any kind), he took on the title of “Funniest Man Alive.”

For more information, visit the Carrollwood Cultural Center website at www.carrollwoodcenter.org

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EXHIBITS Windows to Our Wildest Place: These permanent, hands-on educational exhibits help visitors understand how natural Florida has changed over time and the ecological footprints left by those changes. Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center.

Connecting People and Place: This is an art-inspired, permanent hands-on educational exhibit of the area’s history, ecology and people at the Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center.

For God and Gold: Thru May, in recognition of Viva Florida 500, highlighting the 500 years of historic people, places and events in presentday Florida since the arrival of Juan Ponce de Leon in 1513. Heritage Village features reproduction weapons, nautical items, clothing, camp gear, religious items and other items to tell the story of everyday life during the ocean crossing and the subsequent exploration and colonization of Florida.

Free; advance registration required.

Brooker Creek Preserve.

Introduction to Florida Friendly Landscaping: This one-hour overview class will familiarize you with the Nine Principles of Florida-Friendly Landscaping. Attendees will receive a copy of The Florida Yards & Neighborhoods Handbook. Recommended for ages 10 and older. 10 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

JANUARY EVENTS Jan 2, 9, 16, 23, 30 Book Time at Brooker: Children ages 3 to 5 connect to the wonders of the natural world through a story and a craft, game or other hands-on activity. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Jan 4 Brooker Book Club: Hosted by the Friends of Brooker Creek Preserve, the Brooker Book Club meets the first Saturday of each month. Geared toward adults, the book list includes works by Florida authors, past and present. 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration is required as seating is limited, Brooker Creek Preserve.

Explore the Ecosystems: Brooker Creek Preserve certified guides will lead the hike along the 0.75-mile walk along the Education Center Trail. Observe through the forested wetland, oak hammock and pine flatwood ecosystems. Closed-toe shoes, water and hat recommended. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult; those younger than 6 may find the hike challenging. 9 to 10:30 a.m.

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Jan 4, 11, 18 Weedon Island Guided Hike: Learn about the ecosystems and the early residents of Weedon Island Preserve while hiking the coastal uplands and the boardwalks through mangrove forests. Best for ages 6 and older. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

Jan 9, 23 Wee-Time at Weedon: This program is designed to introduce preschool children to the wonders of the natural and cultural world. Every 2nd and 4th Thursday of each month, children are treated to a variety of stories and hands-on activities that connect them to their environment. This activity is recommended for ages 3 to 5. 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. Free; advance registration requested. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Jan 10 Botany Hike: Join a Brooker Creek naturalist to explore the fascinating plants found on the preserve while identifying wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. Best suited for adults. Bring a camera and questions.

9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of our feathered year-round residents and seasonal visitors while assisting in compiling an annual checklist of the preserve’s birds. Binoculars and bird guides are available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

Jan 11 Advanced Plant ID: This six-part plant identification series introduces participants to the basics and not-so-basic steps required to positively identify plants. The $20 price for this series will cover the cost of a notebook and a copy of How to Identify Plants by H.D. Harrington which participants will keep.10 a.m. to noon. Advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Weather Ready? - A Conversation with the National Weather Service (NWS): Learn about a new NWS initiative to produce a weather ready nation and find out about new NWS’s products and services. 10 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

Birds of Brooker Hike: Join this beginning bird hike and learn how to identify the county’s common birds while meandering along a one-mile trail. Bring water and binoculars. 8 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Jan 15 Bugs and Butterflies in your Backyard: This class will introduce families to the wonderful world of bugs and butterflies found in backyards. Learn how to recognize common butterflies and other insects, and find out about their benefits. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration requested. Clearwater Public Library Main Branch.

Jan 16 Archaeology Lecture Series - Pi-

rates, Protestants, Militia, and Miskitu, the Royalization of Roatan Island: In this presentation, the concept of royalization and description of the results of four field seasons of archaeological investigations at Augusta, which have unearthed mixed deposits of English and Miskitu material culture will be discussed. 7 to 8 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

Jan 17 Wildlife Hike: Join an experienced naturalist and hike along boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. This is a learning experience for everyone so come prepared with binoculars, cameras, and questions.

Questions that cannot be answered by the hike guide will be researched in the Resource Room upon return to the Education Center. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Going Coastal – Sharky Science: There are about 350 different types of sharks; the dwarf shark is as small as a hand, while the whale shark can be as large as a school bus. Learn about all types of sharks, where they live, what they eat, and much more as we explore one of the ocean’s most revered creatures. Recommended for all ages. 2 to 3 p.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

Jan 18 Weedon Photography Hike: Hike the preserve in search of that perfect photo. This program provides great opportunities for photographers of all levels to hone their skills. After a brief classroom session, preserve volunteers highlight seasonal features of the preserve, as well as specific wildlife behaviors that help participants capture the natural beauty of Weedon Island Preserve.

Footprints on the Land Hike: Certified hike guides will lead a hike along the Education Center Trail. Learn of the many “footprints” that be found during this 0.75-mile walk. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must; water and hat recommended. Children under the age of 16 must be accompanied by an adult; those younger than 6 may find the hike challenging. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Family Wildlife Series Part 1 - Scatology: Wildlife biologists and naturalists use scat to determine species presence, habitat use, diet, health, and even population estimates. This

presentation will allow participants to view a variety of preserved specimens.

10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Archaeology Works – Fishing: Along the Gulf Coast, archaeologists have found tantalizing clues about how Florida’s first residents fished these waters. Learn how archaeologists study artifacts linked to fishing like dugout canoes, ancient fishing hooks and nets.

Recommended for all ages. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

Jan 19 Speaking of History Lecture - Finding the Fountain of Youth; Ponce de León and Florida’s Magical Waters: Author Rick Kilby describes how the search for treasures along Florida’s waters five hundred years ago continues to remain part of the mystique of Florida today. 2 p.m. Free. Heritage Village.

Jan 24 Woods Walk: Join a local natural resources agent and hike along two miles of boardwalks and natural trails at Brooker Creek Preserve. Come prepared with binoculars, cameras and questions. Inquiries can also be researched in the resource room upon return to the education center. 9 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Jan 25 Extended Brooker Creek Hike: See how the land has changed over time and discuss the ecological footprints left by those changes on this 2.8 to 4-mile walk. Sturdy closed-toe shoes are a must and water and hat recommended. Those younger than 10 may find this hike challenging; all children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Guided Photography Hike: In a brief classroom session, local photographers and master naturalists Karl and Kathleen Nichter highlight the seasonal features that help participants capture the natural beauty of the Brooker Creek Preserve, then hike the boardwalk and trails looking for those shots that reflect the season. Recommended for adults and children 12 and older. 8:30 to 10:30 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Going Coastal – Marvelous Manatees: Learn all about the marvelous manatees including their life history, why they are an endangered species, www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

and what you can do to help protect them. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve, Birds of Prey: Several live birds of prey will be used to illustrate aspects of predator-prey relationships, adaptations that ensure success as predators, and their role in maintaining healthy, balanced ecosystems. The basic natural history of each species is also discussed along with the impact of humans on their habitats and populations. 10 to 11 a.m. Free; advance registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

Jan. 29 Bobcats: Although rarely seen, Bobcats are very common in Florida. Learn about these fascinating wild cats and their place in Florida’s ecosystems.

This class is fun for the whole family.

10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; advance registration requested. Clearwater Public Library, Countryside Branch.

LOCATION INFO...

Brooker Creek Environmental Education Center, 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. (727) 453-6800; www.brookercreekpreserve.org Clearwater Public Library Main Branch, 100 N. Osceola Ave. Clearwater. (727) 4536800; www.pinellascountyextension.org The Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road. (727) 582-2100; www.flbg.org Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde. (727) 552-1862; www.pinellascounty.org/park Garden Club of St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Dr., S., St. Petersburg.

(727) 582-2630; www.eventbrite.com/ event/5260325776/eorg Hale Activity Center, 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. (727) 582-2108;http://gardenclass-eorg.eventbrite.com Heritage Village, 11909 125 St. N., Largo. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage Palm Harbor Library, 2330 Nebraska Ave., Palm Harbor. (727) 582-2603 Pinellas County Animal Services, 12450 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 5822600; www.pinellascounty.org/animalservices.

Pinellas County Extension, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. (727) 582-2109 Weedon Island Preserve Cultural and Natural History Center, 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. (727) 453-6500; www.weedonislandpreserve.org 19

OUTDOOR MARKETS & EVENTS

ST. PETERSBURG SATURDAY MORNING MARKET - Oct - May Located in Al Lang Stadium parking lot, Hours: 9 am - 2 pm. A wide variety fresh food, plants and crafts including: locally grown fresh produce and herbs. Wide selection of regular & organic fruits and vegetables; Prepared Foods such as BBQ Turkey, smoked seafood, pickled vegetables, gourmet cheeses, fruit smoothies; Plants, Flowers, Fresh Herbs; Hand-crafted House wares & Gifts. www.saturdaymorningmarket.com

GET DOWNTOWN FIRST FRIDAY ST. PETE At the heart of downtown St. Petersburg between 2nd and 3rd Street South, every First Friday of the month, Central Avenue is transformed into a Block Party between 5:30 p.m. – 10 p.m. Meet up with old and new friends and enjoy some of the best Jazz and oldies in the Tampa Bay area. There’s plenty of great food and fine dining in the area. Enjoy the free live music in a unique, convenient, and safe environment. www.firstfridaystpete.com

FLICKS AND FOOD TRUCKS Downtown Channel District Every 3rd Thursday of the month is Gourmet Food Truck fun, independent short flicks (10-15 minutes each) and some micro-brews and live music too.

Expect to find 10-15 gourmet food trucks offering everything from Burgers to Vegetarian Bites, there is something for everyone. Join in for some all out outside food fun. the Grand Central at Kennedy, 1208 E. Kennedy Blvd., 33602. 6 - 10 pm. www.tampabaymarkets.com/flicks-and-food-trucks

Corey Fresh Market - Oct - May The Corey Fresh Market is located on Corey Avenue, the 300 block between Blind Pass Road and Boca Ciega Drive in St. Pete Beach, FL the season operates each Sunday from October thru May. Hours are from 9:00 am to 2:00 pm. A new FRESH feel on Corey Avenue. Local vendors, fresh produce, plants/ flowers, arts/crafts, food, music & fun! Free parking. www.CoreyAve.com

HYDE PARK VILLAGE - LOCAL FOOD, HAND CRAFTS & LIVE MUSIC - 1st Sunday Of The Month Hours: 10am - 3pm. 100+ vendors selling fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted and eco-friendly products. Conventional and hydroponic produce, homemade take home foods such as breads, pastries, gluten free items, pies, prepared entrees, sandwiches, ethnic specialties; handcrafts, eco friendly products & fair trade items. 1621 West Snow Circle, Tampa, FL 33606; www.hydeparkvillage.net/

GULFPORT TUESDAY FRESH MARKET - Oct - May 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. each Tuesday. Over 50 vendors are present offering a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, cheese, seafood, Florida beef, and desserts.

Also hand-made items, jewelry, art work and more. Live music. www.gulfportma.com

NORTH TAMPA MARKET 2nd Saturday, Oct thru May Hours: 10am - 2pm. 60+ vendors located at Carrollwood Cultural Center. Local, organic, hydroponic and conventional produce, florida plants, herbs, flowers, organic food/supplies, locally made jams, jellies, salsa, dips, seasonings, sauces and oils, hand crafts, live Music, bungee jumping bounce pad. www.tampabaymarkets.com

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Dunedin Downtown Market - Nov - May Fri and Sat of each week during the months of Nov thru May, rain or shine, 9 AM to 2 PM. The market features vendors with an emphasis on local goods. Gourmet take-home foods, ready to eat lunch bites, produce - local and organic, plants, cheese, hand crafts, jewelry, artwork and live music. John R. Lawrence Pioneer Park in downtown Dunedin. www.

TampaBayMarkets.com

GANDY’S SATURDAY MORNING Market Nov - May A Mixed Farmers Market with handcrafters, local farm produce, baked artisan breads, plants, live music and more. Hey Mon Caribbean Cooking Magic, Cassie’s Cookies, Joy of Garlic, Maui Wowi of Tampa, String Along Beadz, Whatever Pops, Origami Owl, Butterflies, and more. 4411 West Gandy Blvd., Tampa (between Westshore and Manhattan). 10am - 3pm.

HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

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ocated on the waterfront at Johns Pass, this quaint turn-ofthe-century fishing village is Pinellas County’s #1 tourist attraction. Over one hundred merchants inhabit the Village with unique retail shopping, a variety of restaurants, the local fishing fleet, dolphin watching and shelling tours, boat rentals, parasailing and jet skiing. Plenty of parking: There is metered on-street parking located conveniently throughout the Village, as well as a new state-of-the-art multi-level parking garage adjacent to Bubba Gumps and Hubbards Marina. The beach is a short stroll away. Conveniently located near St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tampa, and just a short drive to the Orlando area. Open daily!

12901 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, Florida Located on the Gulf-to-Intercoastal pass between Madeira Beach and Treasure Island

(727) 394-0756 • johnspassvillage.net

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COOLSTUFF!

Naztech N3050 Universal Audio Transmitter and Car Mount www.hypercel.com/ Naztech’s N3050 Audio Transmitter with Lightning 8-Pin OEM cable is a great universal car mount, that holds your mobile phone, smartphone, music player, or GPS device, while enabling you to charge your device and listen to music or make calls via your car stereo system.

The featured Apple OEM Lightning 8-Pin cable will keep your latest Apple devices charged and always ready. This original Lightning Cable effectively connects your iPhone 5, 5s, 5c, iPad 4, iPad mini, Touch 5 or iPod Nano 7 to your computer or USB charging unit allowing you easy syncing and charging capabilities. From Hypercel.

SwingTIP Bluetooth-enabled Golf Swing Analyzer www.swingtip.com Within seconds after you swing and hit your golf ball, SwingTIP uses Bluetooth to transmit your golf swing analysis to your iPhone, iPad, iPod Touch 4th Generation or Android smartphone/tablet. Just clip on on the holster, and slide on the motion sensor, which weighs less than one ounce. It stays in place securely swing-afterswing, and auto-calibrates for club-type (driver, wood, iron.)

It analyzes and reproduces your swing in three dimensions, and activates the mobile device’s video camera and audio recorder to capture a swing from address to follow-through.

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TAROT World’s Thinnest Power Bank From Powerocks www.powerocks.com/ Ultrathin, Tarot is designed to fit in a wallet, pocket, or small purse to provide an emergency charge for smartphones, tablets and other mobile devices quickly and safely when away from a power source or outlet. Tarot is about the same size as a credit card (but thicker), weighing just 1.79 oz. Tarot’s 1500mAh capacity gives you power to recharge smartphones and tablets with one emergency charge. Tarot also charges other digital devices, such as Bluetooth headsets, cameras, GPS devices, and more.

Keystone ECO MarineCase II - 20ft Waterproof Case for Large Screen Smart Phones www.concordkeystone.com/ Keystone ECO MarineCase II is a waterproof case specially designed to fit most large screen smart phones, like Galaxy S II & S III, HTC Evo, to name a few. MarineCase II is IP58 certified against sand/dust intrusion and waterproof up to 20ft. Its high impact polycarbonate hard shell is integrated with silicone surface for added protection against bump & drop.

Enclosing the phone in the MarineCase II allows you to capture underwater video up to 20 feet. Just start the video recording before diving in the water.

Its user-friendly twist lock design makes it easy to put in and take out the phone. The clear protective silicon cover of the MarineCase II supports full Phone screen and call functionality.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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STRAZ PERFORMANCES The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess - Jan 14 - 19. Winner of the 2012 Tony Award for Best Revival of a Musical, The Gershwins’ Porgy and Bess is hitting the road in a stunning and stirring new staging, including such legendary songs as “Summertime,” “It Ain’t Necessarily So” and “I Got Plenty of Nothing.”

Ralphie May - Jan 18. Since his debut on season one of Last Comic Standing, audiences can’t get enough of larger than life comedian Ralphie May. He has a no nonsense point of view and the ability to connect with a diverse audience by pointing out society’s hypocrisies. Intended for mature audiences.

DISENCHANTED! - Jan 28 - April 13. The new musical comedy satire that proves happily ever after can be a royal pain. The original fairytale princesses are none too happy with the exploitation they’ve suffered through today’s films, books and dolls. Snow White and her angry band of storybook friends are storming the castle in order to take their lives back. Intended for mature audiences.

Itzhak Perlman - Feb 1. Itzhak Perlman’s musical virtuosity makes him a world violin superstar. Yet his humanity and disarming charm have created legions of loyal fans, classical and nonclassical alike.

ONCE - Feb. 11 - 16. ONCE tells the enchanting tale of a Dublin street musician who’s about to give up on his dream when a beautiful young woman

takes a sudden interest in his haunting love songs. As the chemistry between them grows, his music soars to powerful new heights ... but their unlikely connection turns out to be deeper and more complex than your everyday romance.

EVITA - March 18 - 23. Eva Perón used her beauty and charisma to rise meteorically from the slums of Argentina to the presidential mansion as First Lady.

Evita features some of theater’s most beautiful songs, including “Don’t Cry for Me Argentina,” “Another Suitcase in Another Hall” and “High Flying, Adored.”

Jersey Boys - April 8 - 13. Jersey Boys, the musical about The Four Seasons, is the story of how four blue-collar kids became one of the greatest successes in pop music history. The JERSEY BOYS Tampa engagement features their hit songs “Sherry,” “Big Girls Don’t Cry,” “Oh, What a Night,” and “Can’t Take My Eyes Off of You.” Ghost The Musical - April 22 - 27. Ghost The Musical follows Sam and Molly, a young couple whose connection takes a shocking turn after Sam’s untimely death. Trapped between two worlds, Sam refuses to leave Molly when he learns she is in grave danger. Desperate to communicate with her, he turns to a storefront psychic who helps him protect Molly and avenge his death.

We Will Rock You - May 13 - 18. We Will Rock You features the greatest hits of the legendary British rock group, Queen. This hilarious phenomenon boasts a fantastic score of killer Queen tunes such as “Another One Bites The Dust,” “Crazy Little Thing Called Love,” “We Are The Champions,” “Bohemian Rhapsody” and “We Will Rock You. For more information, visit Straz Center, 813-2297827, www.strazcenter.org

PORGY & BESS

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The Addams Family - Sat, Jan 11 The Addams Family is the recent smash-hit musical comedy that brings the darkly delirious world of Gomez, Morticia, Uncle Fester, Grandma, Wednesday, Pugsley and, of course, Lurch to spooky and spectacular life. “Enormously entertaining! The Addams Family is fiendishly good fun!” - Kathy Greenburg, The Tampa Tribune. “A wonderful new musical for the entire family!”

- Barbara Walters, The View.

Rock of Ages - Fri, Jan 17 The worldwide party musical ROCK OF AGES features a mix of 28 rockin’ ‘80s tunes including “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “We Built This City,” “The Final Countdown,” “Wanted Dead or Alive,” “Here I Go Again,” “Can’t Fight This Feeling” and “I Want To Know What Love Is.” In 1987 on the Sunset Strip, a small town girl met a big city rocker and in LA’s most famous rock club, they fell in love to the greatest songs of the ‘80s. It’s an arena-rock love story told through the hits of Journey, Night Ranger, STYX, REO Speedwagon, Pat Benatar, Twisted Sister, Poison, ASIA, Whitesnake and many more.

1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, Florida 33759; (727) 791-7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com/

WMNF Radio Theatre Project LIVE! Jan 13

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he radio players will present “John Doe” by Michael Bettencourt, “Family Man” by Paul Wilborn, and the latest chapter in the ongoing series “The Continuing Adventures of Noel Berlin, Cabaret Detective” by Matt Cowley and Paul Wilborn.

Be part of the live studio audience and watch actors read LIVE ON AIR complete with traditional sound ef-

fects on Monday January 13, at 7:00 PM. Fun for all ages! Pay what you can at the door.

“John Doe” is by Michael Bettencourt. Radio adaptation of 1941 movie “Meet John Doe” is still relevant to today about a newspaper running a scam to increase circulation by creating a fictional John Doe, an Everyman who threatens to jump off City Hall to protest the world’s injustices. The protest attracts national attention. It all concludes at City Hall on Christmas Eve. (About 30 minutes.)

“The Continuing Adventures of Noel Berlin, Cabaret Detective #3” by Matt Cowley and Paul Wilborn The popular series written by and for RTP Live! Ensemble features murder, music, mayhem and plenty of sound effects on the streets and in the politics and of St Petersburg. Don’t miss any of the cliff hanger episodes!

“Family Man” by Paul Wilborn A depressed, recently divorced man tries to rebuild his life, but finds it difficult.

RTP Live! Season 5 Upcoming Shows: January 13, February 10, March 10, April 14, May 12 The Studio@620 is located at 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701, 727-895-6620. www.studio620.org

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2014 SEASON

HELLO DOLLY - Jan 17-Feb 2 Musical by Jerry Herman and Michael Stewart. Fall in love again with America’s favorite

matchmaker as Dolly Levi leads the high stepping cast in a razzle-dazzle salute to this Broadway masterpiece.

CRIMES OF THE HEART - March 7-23 Comedy/Drama by Beth Henley. Warmhearted, irreverent humor highlights the plight of three Mississippi sisters as each strives to escape the

past in order to seize the future.

REGRETS ONLY - May 2-18 Comedy by Paul Rudnick. The jokes fly fast and furious as a noted fashion designer and his socialite friends try to define friendships, modern marriage and high society manners.

SP City Theatre, 4025 31st St So, St. Petersburg FL 33712; 727-866-1973. www.splt.org/

americanstage.org

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the depths of despair and the heights of joy as she tries to hold on to who she is. Clever, hysterical and exasperating.

A FEW GOOD MEN - May 1-18

2014 SEASON THE DIVINE SISTER - Feb 6-23 The Divine Sister is an outrageous comic homage to nearly every Hollywood film involving nuns.. (The Song of Bernadette, The Bells of St. Mary’s, The Flying Nun…) This madcap trip through Hollywood religiosity is written by the outrageous author of Die Mommie Die and Psycho Beach Party! The Divine Sister tells the story of St. Veronica’s indomitable Mother Superior who is determined to build a new school for her Pittsburgh convent. “This gleefully twisted tale of the secret lives of nuns — in which the playwright doubles as leading lady — is Mr. Busch’s freshest, funniest work in years, perhaps decades.” - The New York Times

TEN PERCENT OF MARTA SOLANO - March 27 - April 13 Ten Percent Of Marta Solano is by Richard Strand. A trip to the DMV to get an address on a drivers license changed turns into a mind-numbing but hilarious journey through red tape. Full of wit and pathos, Marta’s journey through mis-guided information plunges her to

Aaron Sorkin (Moneyball, The Social Network, The West Wing) wrote this captivating courtroom drama which ran for 500 performances on Broadway in 1989 and became an Oscar nominated film in 1992.

Originally inspired by true events, this taut, tense thriller erupts when two Marines are accused of the hazing death of a fellow Marine at Guantanamo Bay.The Navy lawyer, a callow young man more interested in softball games than the case, expects a plea bargain and a cover up of what really happened. Prodded by a female member of his defense team, the lawyer eventually makes a valiant effort to defend his clients and, in so doing, puts the military mentality and the Marine code of honor on trial.

“Enormously entertaining.” - N.Y. Daily News “Plenty of wise cracking humor and suspense.“ - Time Magazine

THE SUGARBEAN SISTERS - June 12-29 Stuck in a Florida swamp near Disney World, the Nettles sisters are determined to escape spinsterhood by hopping the next spaceship out of town, and they’re not going to let the arrival of a snake charmer, a handsome Mormon Bishop and a mysterious bird woman stand in their way. See the show “New York Newsday” called the “most impressive debut of a new American playwright“.

Stageworks Theatre, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd. Tampa FL 33602; 813-251-8984. www.stageworkstheatre.org

Love Letters Jan 10 - 26

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unique and imaginative theatre piece, Love Letters by A.R. Gurney, a finalist for the Pulitzer Prize for Drama, will open the new year at Venue Theatre.

This charming, poignant play centers on just two characters, Melissa Gardner and Andrew Makepeace Ladd III. Using the epistolary form sometimes found in novels, they sit side by side at tables and read the notes, letters and cards – in which over nearly 50 years, they discuss their hopes and ambitions, dreams and disappointments, victories and defeats – that have passed between them throughout their separated lives.

Venue Theatre, 9125 U.S. 19 North, Pinellas Park, FL. 727-822-6194

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2 TRAINS RUNNING Jan 24 - Feb 23

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t is 1969, and in the aftermath of the riots, Dr. King’s assassination, and the rise of the black power movement, a young man named Stirling comes to Memphis Lee’s diner where customers have gathered for decades to share their struggles, faith, and hopes. But this diner has been slated for demolition in the city’s new redevelopment plan, and what unfolds is Wilson’s most compassionate and humorous work about lives in transition, evolving social awareness, and spirits rising.

Cast: Kim Sullivan - Memphis ; Alan Bomar Jones - Holloway; Bryant Bentley - Sterling; Renata Eastlick - Risa Ranney - Hambone; Cranstan Cumberbatch Wolf; Wilbert L. Williams, Jr. - West.

Finalist 1992 Pulitzer Prize in Drama. NY Drama Critics Circle Award for “Best American Play”. “Its stunning monologues are gorgeous, funny and savage.” -LA Times. “The most comic of the Wilson cycle so far.” -The Christian Science Monitor American Stage - 163 3rd Street North , St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727.823.7529 www.americanstage.org

Tommy Blaze - Jan 30 - Feb 1 A veteran of the comedy stage, Tommy Blaze has appeared in comedy clubs, private corporate events, casinos, churches, cruise ships and colleges. He was a series regular on “The Newz,” appeared in “Friends” on NBC and has starred in “Me Again,” “Marriage Retreat,” “Run On,” “Rumpelstiltskin” and “Viewer Discretion Advised.” His comedy is opinionated, thoughtful, controversial and admittedly one sided. If you are married, dating, single, divorced, a parent, confused, young, desperate, misguided, lost or easily offended then you need Tommy Blaze to straighten you out.

SideSplitters is located at 12938 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa. www.sidesplitterscomedy.com 28

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THE NORMAL HEART Jan 25 - Feb 16 Larry Kramer’s unabashed indictment of the politics surrounding the early days of the AIDS epidemic debuted in 1985 and is no less surprising or powerful almost 30 years later.

In this largely autobiographical play, Ned Weeks is a lone voice shouting into the darkness about what he sees happening to his friends and community. His warnings erupt into all-out fury as everyone from government leaders to healthcare providers ignore the mounting crisis. freeFall’s cast includes Artistic Director, Eric Davis as Ned Weeks. “No one who cares about the future of the human race can afford to miss The Normal Heart.” – Rex Reed freeFall Theatre, 6099 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, 727-498-5205. www.freefalltheatre.com/

www.spcitytheatre.org

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REX’S EXES - Jan 17 - Feb 2

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he sequel to last year’s hit The Red Velvet Cake War, this hilariously funny Southern-fried farce finds the Verdeen cousins of Sweetgum, Texas teetering on the brink of disaster again. As Gaynelle stubbornly refuses to face turning the big 50, Peaches and Jimmy Wy are planning a big party to celebrate this event. Many of the same characters appear again as well as many new odd relatives and friends. Starring Cherie Albury, Rick Bronson, Colleen Coughenour, Janice Creneti, Donna Donnelly, John Kobasic, Samantha Parisi, Kimen Mitchell, Mabel LaCola, Patricia Bates Smith, John Timberlake. Directed by Ashlie Johnson 21905 US 19 N., Clearwater, FL 33765; 727 437-2363; www.wcplayers.org

GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERS Inlaws, Outlaws, and Other People” January 9 - 26

The Gulfport Community Players will be opening the comedy “Inlaws, Outlaws, and Other People,” written by Steve Franco, starting Thursday, January 9th. Show times are Thursday, Friday, Saturday at 8 p.m. and Sundays at 2 p.m. Running through January 26th, this play is a non-stop, laugh-a-minute, comic gem that ends up showing everyone the true meaning of Christmas and provides great entertainment for the entire family. This play is directed by Jim Cartwright and produced by Eileen Navarro.

The play is at the Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport, FL 33707 You can get tickets at the Gulfport Beach Bazaar, the Gulfport Chamber of Commerce, the Gulfport Casino, the Couture’d Resale Boutique, at the door before the performance, or by calling for will call tickets at 727-322-0316.

Visit the Players’ website at www.gulfportcommunityplayers.org for more information.

Early Bird Dinner Theatre

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ake one womanizing opera singer, knock him out in a hotel room, add a jealous wife, a scheming impersonator, a hilariously ambitious bellhop, and toss in some people running around in their underwear, getting tipsy and slamming doors, and you have the recipe for a rollicking good evening of theater.

“Lend Me a Tenor,” a comedy written by Ken Ludwig, opens at the Early Bird Dinner Theatre on January 11th and runs through March 9th. It tells the story of a renowned tenor, Tito Merelli, who is scheduled to star in “Otello,” but things unravel – and fast – before he even has the chance to leave his hotel room.

LEND ME A TENOR Jan 11 - Mar 9

13355 49th St N,, Clearwater, FL 33762; www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com 30

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www.sidesplitterscomedy.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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The Hound of the Baskervilles Jan 9 - Feb 2

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n ancient family curse, a desolate moor, a spectral hound and a deranged killer on the loose! The Hound of the Baskervilles is the most celebrated Holmes story of all, a masterpiece of mystery and suspense. One after another, the male heirs of the Baskerville family are being knocked off. Sherlock Holmes, self-proclaimed “greatest detective of all time,” sends Dr. Watson to the countryside in order to prevent more bloodshed, and naturally mayhem (and, in this case wackiness!) of various kinds ensues.

At the Shimberg Playhouse at the Straz Centers, Tampa. www.jobsitetheater.org/shows/hound/about.php

Best Laid Plans Jan 10 - March 31 The Murder Mystery Company presents it’s new show, “Best Laid Plans.” Set in the decadent 1930’s, this classic murder mystery is full of laughter and intrigue. You’ll play detective in this fun interactive mystery. Will you be able to spot the true killer amidst a sea of suspicious characters? Your enemy Sir Peace has invited you to his estate with promise of riches. You’re told the night will host a deadly game! Peace will die, and his killer will be a guest. He’s arranged his wealth will go to whoever solves the case. But, If he lives OR the killer escapes…all leave penniless! The Scene Of The Crime takes place at the Spaghetti Warehouse, 1911 N 13th St, Tampa, FL 33605.

All 3 courses are included with the price of admission. www.grimprov.com/Dinner-Theater-Tampa-Bay

AN ILIAD Jan 10 - Feb 2 Gorilla Theatre will present AN ILIAD, by Lisa Peterson and Denis O’Hare, Adapted from Homer’s “The Iliad”, translated by Robert Fagles. AN ILIAD is directed by Ami Sallee, and features actor Brendan Ragan as The Poet.

Homer’s epic story of war, honor, violence and the Greek siege of the city of Troy is brought to life by a mysterious, time and care-worn Poet who is compelled to tell this story, to connect with the modern audience, in the shadow of modern wars. AN ILIAD brings to life the gods, the warriors, the fathers, and the women in Homer’s sweeping epic. Using an original and immediate voice, and modern analogies, the Poet recounts humanity’s tendencies toward petty anger, violence, destruction and chaos. Has anything really changed since the Trojan War? Opening January 10 at the Springs Theatre, 8029 N. Nebraska Avenue in Tampa. 8 pm. and running through February 2, with performances at the Firehouse Cultural Center in Ruskin Jan 17-19. 813-879-2914. www.gorillatheatre.com

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S T R E C N O HOT C

TAMPA BAY TIMES FORUM

Saturday, January 11

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ulti-GRAMMY nominated Newsboys and groundbreaking GRAMMY-winning rap/hiphop recording artist Lecrae lead an all-star line-up which also features Tenth Avenue North, Thousand Foot Krutch, Plumb, NewSong and Colton Dixon, as well as a message from leading young evangelist Nick Hall. In addition, the iDisciple App Pre-Jam Party will feature Love & The Outcome, Everfound and Derek Minor. The tour is slated to stop at the Tampa Bay Times Forum on Saturday, January 11 at 6:00 PM. Newsboys boasts an impressive track record with 16 albums, five gold certifications, 30 No. 1 radio hits and over 8 million units sold over their

Newsboys last year, debuted at #3 on The Billboard 200 and garnered a GRAMMY Award for Best Gospel Album.

NewSong has recorded 18 albums, garnering 20 #1 Christian radio singles and a GRAMMY Award nomination, in addition to being inducted into the Georgia Music Hall of Fame, among numerous other achievements. NewSong’s best-selling latest album, Swallow The Ocean, features the current single, “Who Loved You First.”

Lecrae

For additional information, visit www.tampabaytimesforum.com/

multi-decade career. This rock and pop-driven worship band includes front man Michael Tait (vocals) and his band mates who’ve played together for two decades - Jody Davis (guitar), Jeff Frankenstein (keys) and Duncan Phillips (drums).

With a passion for impacting urban culture, Lecrae is known for his groundbreaking in-your-face delivery of biblical Truth and transparent, relatable and encouraging lyrics. “Gravity,” which released NewSong 34

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Fri, January 17

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he Tampa Bay Times Forum will be electric on January 17, when Billy Joel hits the stage. Billy is one of the highest grossing touring artists in the world. Having sold over 150 million albums globally, Billy Joel’s music has remained among the most popular in the world. The singer/songwriter/composer is the sixth best-selling recording artist of all time and the third best-selling solo artist.

Billy Joel has received six GRAMMY Awards, including the prestigious Grammy Legend Award. He has been inducted into the Songwriter’s Hall of Fame and the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and has received numerous industry awards. His music has also served as the inspiration and score for the hit Broadway play “Movin’ Out” which took home two Tony Awards, including Best Orchestration and Best Choreography.

For additional information, visit www.tampabaytimesforum.com/

TAMPA BAY TIMES FORUM

Fri, January 31

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arry Manilow, the undisputed #1 Adult Contemporary Artist of all time, will bring his high-energy, hit-packed concert to The Forum on Fri, Jan 31. With more than 50 Top 40 hits like, “Mandy,” “Can’t Smile Without You” and “Copacabana (at The Copa),” Manilow will perform for one night only.

With worldwide record sales exceeding 80 million, Barry Manilow’s unparalleled career encompasses virtually every arena of entertainment, including performing, writing, composing, arranging, and producing. A Songwriters Hall of Fame inductee, Manilow has produced, arranged, and released more than 40 albums during the course of his career. He has also written and produced songs for Barbra Streisand, Bette Midler, Dionne Warwick, and many more. He has been honored with a Grammy, two Emmys, a Tony Award, an Oscar nomination, and a top selling autobiography.

For additional information, visit www.tampabaytimesforum.com/

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RUTH ECKERD HALL Neil Sedaka - Sunday 01/05

Neil Sedaka’s impressive fifty-plus year career ranges from being one of the first teen pop sensations of the ‘50s, a relevant songwriter for himself and other artists in the ‘60s, a superstar in the ‘70s and remaining a constant force in writing and performing presently.

Gregg Allman - Tuesday 01/07

A founding member of the legendary Allman Brothers Band and a critically acclaimed solo artist, songwriter, keyboardist and guitarist, Gregg is a natural interpreter of the blues. His soulful voice and gift for interpreting the blues placed him at #70 in the Rolling Stone magazine list of the “100 Greatest Singers of All Time.”

Tony Orlando - Sunday 01/19

Tony Orlando is one of America’s most endearing and enduring stars.

Tony brings a warmth and exhilarating energy that electrifies an audience and like a painter, he is an artist who steps onto a stage as if it were a blank canvas. Each show he weaves colorful emotions set to music touching the deepest part of a person’s heart.

Manhattan Transfer - Thursday 01/23

With numerous GRAMMY® Awards under their belt and millions of albums sold worldwide, The Manhattan Transfer is arguably the most successful vocal harmony group of all time. Tim Hauser founded the current incarnation of the group in 1972 with members Alan Paul, Janis Siegal and Cheryl Bentyne and the group quickly solidified themselves as undeniable with a diverse catalog.

Willie Nelson & Family - Wednesday 01/29

If ever the words "living legend" were more than just public relations bluster, the application would be to Willie Hugh Nelson. The iconic Texan is the creative genius behind historic recordings like Crazy, Hello Walls, Red Headed Stranger and Stardust. His career has spanned six decades. His catalog boasts more than 200 albums.

ELO - Former Members - Friday 01/31

Electric Light Orchestra’s spectacular run of success in the ‘70s and ‘80s included numerous gold and platinum albums, and a secure place as one of the most important bands in the history of rock. Now The Orchestra, with former ELO members and former ELO Part II members perform ELO’s greatest hits.

Johnny Mathis - Thursday 02/06

Johnny Mathis, whose rich, warm, velvet voice has brought us melodies so important to American pop music (Chances Are, Misty, It’s Not For Me To Say, Wonderful! Wonderful!, The Twelfth of Never, A Certain Smile and many more), has had two songs inducted into the GRAMMY Hall of Fame.

In 1998, he made the famous Hall’s list with Chances Are and in 2002, he made the list again with Misty.

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CAPITOL THEATRE Katharine McPhee - Saturday 01/11

Actress and Columbia recording artist Katharine McPhee starred in the Steven Spielberg/NBC TV series SMASH in New York City. Her self-titled debut album exploded on the Billboard 200 and was the best charting debut for a female artist within a two year period. Katharine co-starred in the hit Adam Sandler comedy House Bunny and co-starred in episodes of CSI-NY, Community and The Family Guy.

Queensryche - Thursday 01/16

Further laying down the gauntlet and keeping the music he’s created for more than three decades alive, Queensryche vocalist and founding member Geoff Tate is on the road celebrating the 25th Anniversary of the band’s epic 1988 release, Operation: Mindcrime. The tour will feature an arsenal of bassist Rudy Sarzo (Ozzy Osbourne/Quiet Riot/Whitesnake/Dio), drummer Bobby Blotzer (Ratt), guitarist Kelly Gray (Queensryche/

Myth) and keyboardist Randy Gane (Myth) along with special guest appearances and plenty of surprises.

Keb Mo - Thursday 01/30

Keb’ Mo’s genre-blending artfulness, intuitive lyrics, unique guitar style, distinctive voice and magnetic charisma on stage have gained him a tremendously loyal fan base and the significant honor of being called, “a musician's musician.” Though it seems that Keb’ Mo’ flies just under the radar of big name recognition, during his vibrant 18-year career he has been recognized with a vast number of honors, awards and nominations including GRAMMY Awards, BMI awards and numerous WC Handy Blues Awards.

Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater, FL 33759, (727) 791-7400 Capitol theatre, 405 Cleveland St, Clearwater, FL 33755 • (727) 791-7400 www.rutheckerdhall.com

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Vinoy Park Sunday, January 19 TEDESCHI TRUCKS BAND ALSO FEATURING:

JJ GREY, GALACTIC, LEON RUSSELL, ACOUSTIC HOT TUNA, STANLEY CLARKE, THE RINGERS featuring JIMMY HERRING, WAYNE KRANTZ, MICHAEL LANDAU, KEITH CARLOCK AND ETIENNE MBAPPE, BOBBY LEE ROGERS, & OLI BROWN

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he Tedeschi Trucks Band, winner of multiple Blues Music Awards and a 2012 Grammy Award for “Best Blues Album,” will headline this Florida only Festival. Featuring two stages of live bands, a wide array of refreshing craft beers and delectable menus from a wide variety of food vendors, the Festival takes place Sunday, January 19, noon (doors open at 11:30), at Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg in the Tampa Bay Area.

While last year was an amazing year for the Tedeschi Trucks Band (TTB), this year has been another strong showing as well. They have just released their second studio album, Made Up Mind. With the release of Made Up Mind there isn’t a shred of doubt that Susan Tedeschi, her husband and creative collaborator, Derek Trucks, and their bandmates are on to something big.

Over the course of six albums and a decade of touring, JJ Grey’s grimy blend of front porch soul and downhome storytelling has taken him around the world and back again. Beating the streets on nearly every continent, he has sewn a continuous thread of laying-it-on-the-line shows that move folks to dance.

Also appearing on this year’s bill for the Festival are: Galactic; Leon Russell; Hot Tuna with Jorma Kaukonen and Jack Casady; Stanley Clarke; The Ringers featuring Jimmy Herring (from Widespread Panic), Wayne Krantz, Michael Landau, Keith Carlock and Etienne Mbappe; Bobby Lee Rogers; Oli Brown.

For more information go to www.sunshinemusicandblues.com

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Bradenton Area Upcoming Events January 21-24, 26, 28-31, 2014

January 3–5, 2014

Onshore Offshore Boat Show Boats, boating accessories, fishing gear and apparel.

Bradenton Area Convention Center. Friday 1pm-8pm, Saturday 10am-7pm, and Sunday 10am-5pm.

727-894-3644

January 10–11, 2014

Antique Bottle & Vintage Table Top Collectibles Show and Sale Antique Bottles, Stoneware, Fruit Jars, Old Tins, Advertising and Signs, Pottery, Oil Lamps, Insulators, Woodenware, Postcards, Jewelry, Fossils and Artifacts and much, much more.

Bradenton Area Convention Center.

Friday 1/9 from 3pm - 7:45pm Saturday and Sunday 9am - 5pm. 941-722-7233

January 11–12, 2014

Buckler's 23rd Annual Craft Fair crafts, artists, handmade creations.

Bradenton Area Convention Center. Saturday 10am5pm and Sunday 10am-4pm. 386-860-0092

January 16, 2014

Enlightening "Making a Difference" Lecture by Dr. Jordan Lifelong Learning Academy at USF is bringing Dr. Jordan Kassalow, a renowned social entrepreneur to Sarasota to share his moving story of how he founded VisionSpring, an organization that has created economic opportunities for over 10,000 women in 22 countries and more. Reception, Meet and Greet - Wine and Hors d'oeuvres catered by Michaels on East.

Powel Crosley Estate. Thursday 3pm-5:30pm.

941-359-4296

January 17-19, 2014

Gymnastics Competition - Tampa Bay Turners Bradenton Area Convention Center. Friday 8am–5pm

Murder at the Crosley Live interactive theater - Featuring stories from Arthur Conan Doyle (Silver Blaze), Edgar Allan Poe (Hopfrog), Lord Dunsany (Two Bottles of Relish) and Roald Dahl (The Landlady). Move from room to room with the actors and discover the clues to solve the mystery.

Concession/bar will be available.

Powel Crosley Estate. 7:30pm Fridays and Sunday.

941-722-3244

January 25-26, 2014

The Manatee River Orchid Show and Sale Orchid displays, judging of plants and exhibits by the American Orchid Society, Sales and cultural information.

Bradenton Area Convention Center.

Saturday 10am-5pm Sunday 10am-4pm. 941-723-1356

February 1, 2014

The Guy Expo 50 fun vendors of stuff GUYS like and 50 doctors from the community.

Bradenton Area Convention Center. Saturday 9am2pm. 813-787-1128

February 3-7, 2014

Bill Bailey's 2014 Winter Gospel Music Convention.

Visit website for more information. www.billbaileyconcerts.com/ Bradenton Area Convention Center. All day event.

941-756-6942

February 4, 11, 18, 25, March 4, 11 The Royal Tea Simply Gourmet Caterers is taking afternoon tea to a whole new level. The Royal Tea will be presented during February 2014~2-4pm. Tea will be served in the exclusive upstairs living area at the Crosley Estate,overlooking the bay. The menu includes savory and sweet specialties and a properly brewed flavorful pot of English tea served in vintage tea service. A portion of the proceeds benefit the Crosley Foundation.

Powel Crosley Estate. 2pm-4pm. 941 225-9122

For more information on Bradenton Area Events, please visit www.bradentongulfislands.com/explore/bradenton

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www.floridaorchestra.org

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Florida Orchestra’s Performances in January Ring in the New Year with hits from Beethoven, Brahms and James Bond

January 10, 11 and 12: Bravo Beethoven! – Tampa Bay Times Masterworks Series Hailed for his “exquisite playing” by The New York Times, Irish pianist John O’Conor is the soloist in the powerfully dramatic Piano Concerto No. 3 in this all-Beethoven concert that opens with the Egmont Overture and concludes with the buoyant and charming Symphony No. 6, “Pastorale.”

There will be a pre-concert conversation one hour prior to curtain. Guest Conductor is Marcelo Lehninger.

January 16: Musicians in the Spotlight – Coffee Concert Series Stuart Malina conducts this morning Coffee Concert that features Copland’s Quiet City, Debussy’s Prelude to the Afternoon of a Faun, and Britten’s Young Person’s Guide to the Orchestra, along with select movements from Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 and Tchaikovsky’s Serenade in C Major. Enjoy complimentary coffee and doughnuts as well as a pre-concert conversation one hour before the concert.

January 17, 18 and 19: Bond & Beyond – Raymond James Pops Series Bond and Beyond is a full-blown salute to the world of spies, sleuths, double agents, detectives and bungling inspectors with music from You Only Live Twice, Pink Panther, Diamonds Are Forever, Goldfinger, Secret Agent Man, Casino Royale, Quantum of Solace, The World Is Not Enough, From Russia with Love, Dick Tracy, Skyfall and more. Michael Krajewski is guest conductor.

January 24, 25 and 26: Bartok & Brahms – Tampa Bay Times Masterworks Series Called a “prodigious and aristocratic violinist” by The Plain Dealer, Concertmaster Jeffrey Multer performs Bartók’s vivacious and gypsy-intoned Violin Concerto No. 2. The evening also features Brahms’ Symphony No. 2 and Steven Stucky’s Radical Light with its wealth of moods and orchestral colors. There will be a pre-concert conversation one hour prior to curtain. Guest Conductor is Joana Carneiro.

Tickets are on sale at 800-662-7286 and online at www.floridaorchestra.org

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MUSIC TRAX

NEW AGE Buddha Bass Soulfood

Compiled by Papande Newman

www.soulfoodmusic.com

BUDDHA BASS (aka Soulfood & DJ Free) is an award winning producer & composer who has 27 independent, 2 major label releases and has scored music for IMAX, Disney, PBS and National Geographic.

Our music combines acoustic instrumentation, global grooves and transglobal electronica. We love to collaborate with musicians, DJs and producers from around the world & a variety of musical genres.

Cosmo Frequency Soundtrack to Life

www.cosmofrequency.com

Cosmo Frequency is New Age music for this modern age.

Join us as we journey through a world of light, love, and joy with songs from the our debut album “Soundtrack to Life”. Our love and passion to capture the music that surrounds us has allowed us to create this album. We connect to the cosmos to create a musical landscape that allows the inner light worker in us all, to perform all of our conscious creations.

Takashi Suzuki Voyage

www.cdbaby.com/cd/takashisuzuki5

Voyage is the third release from Japanese musician/ painter/ sculptor/ architect Takashi Suzuki. Takashi has spent a lifetime mastering his music and offers a variety of soothing soundscapes for ambient listening. There is a continuity from one song to the next for an unbroken flow of musicality. Takashi’s music lends itself to meditation and reflection.

Kristin Amarie Notes From A Journey www.amariemusic.com

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ristin Amarie Notes from a Journey Kristin Amarie hails from the shores of Norway. An artist with an international background, she has spent more than half her life traveling abroad studying and working. The world is indeed her theater and as this compelling musician shares her inner voice with us on her new album Notes from a Journey, we see the varied musical styles in her background. From bossa nova to Scandinavian folk songs, this album has classical flair with elements of world music. Contributing artists include Tony Aiello, Joe Deninzon and Grammy nominated and piano extraordinaire David Lanz.

First Light was produced by Grammy nominated producer Alex Salzman. The piece begins with the haunting strains of Amarie s vocals, drifting in and out like cloud formations. Against a backdrop of the darkest night, the first light of dawn begins to warm the sky. A pensive orchestration of multiple instruments thrums to life, spiraling outward like the golden rays of the sun. Illuminating the shadows of the night into the bright and glorious day, Amarie s voice is akin to angels singing.

Al Conti The Blue Rose

www.alconti.net

Al’s fifth release is an ancient tale told through music, exploring themes as ancient as time. Al masterfully weaves music and narrative entrancing the listener and blending modern and ancient sensibilities. Beautifully crafted, peaceful, unpretentious yet powerful, Al has once again shown his versatility by creating a work of deep emotion that will be undoubtedly welcomed by his audience.

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COUNTRY David Shelby Rust Belt Cowboy www.davidshelbymusic.com Somewhere along the interstates and freeways between Nashville and Detroit, David Shelby mapped out his musical direction with the final destination to “arrive” at country radio with a sound that was “in waiting.”

Capturing the salt-of-the-earth and grit of Motor City, Michigan, the rock n’ roll history the culture is known for, and melding it with Nashville’s signature musicianship and storylines, Shelby created a sound he proudly identifies as “Rust Belt Country.”

New West Guitar Group Big City www.summitrecords.com New West Guitar Group s latest release Big City channels the pulse of a city dweller in a thriving metropolis. This accessible, powerful recording combines original compositions with classics from Joni Mitchell, Tears for Fears, Simon & Garfunkel, and the Police. Featuring three young guitar virtuosos, New West has been making its mark as the premier acoustic/electric guitar ensemble.

Jayme Stone The Other Side of the Air www.jaymestone.com Two-time Juno-winning banjoist, composer and instigator Jayme Stone makes music inspired by sounds from around the world, bridging folk, jazz and chamber music.

His award-winning albums both defy and honor the banjo’s long role in the world’s music, turning historical connections into compelling music.

Sultan of Strings Symphony! www.sultansofstring.com In 2012 Sultans of String had their triumphant live orchestra debut under the direction of Maestro John Morris Russell, Conductor of the Cincinnati Pops Orchestra.

This new recording features Sultans of String accompanied by a full Symphony Orchestra, serving up their signature genre-bending, spicy stew of Spanish Flamenco, French Manouche Gypsy Jazz, Middle Eastern Folk, and Cuban rhythms. Special Guests include Paddy Moloney of The Chieftains, Singing superstars Dala, Oud master Bassam Bishara, and ukulele giant James Hill.

George Ducas 4340 www.georgeducas.com

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ne of country’s most prolific songwriters and performers (and a longtime personal favorite), George Ducas, is set to release his long-awaited, full length cd “4340” on October 29, 2013 and it can’t come soon enough for fans. If you’re not familiar with George, he’s been a staple in country music for years, not only with his writing with hits like “Real Fine Place to Start” (Sara Evans), “Won’t Be Lonely Long” (Josh Thompson) and cuts by other artists like George Jones and Garth Brooks, but with his own hits like “Lipstick Promises” and “Every Time She Passes By”. When it comes to simplistic tradition, George Ducas is exactly that. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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POP ROCK HIP HOP Motorhead Aftershock www.imotorhead.com Motörhead delivers their 21st studio album, an enormous and prophetic Aftershock. Recorded at NRG Studios in North Hollywood, it is a true leveler, a crushing confirmation of everything Motörhead stands for, marching from the dust storm to deliver 14 belting statements which see Motörhead in perhaps their best writing form for years. There’s swagger, there’s punch, there’s speed and there’s dirty filthy grooves, Lemmy Kilmister, Phil Campbell and Mikkey Dee showing clearly that Motörhead is not simply a band, it’s a genre!

Da Killah Genius Da Killah N’ Comin’: Episode 1 Heaven N Hell www.dakillahgenius.com From New Jersey city streets comes Da Killah Genius, the new voice of hip hop. With experience and spirit, he does it all – vocals, songwriting, keys, mixing, turntables and producing. Full of raw energy.

Wood Shampoo Crack, Crack Heart Attack www.wobblehouse.com Good times aside, at its core, CRACK, CRACK HEART ATTACK is a collection of pop-routed gems of the guilty pleasure variety that so few seem able write any more. Almost rock for rock’s sake and steeped in a proud tradition of dirty secrets, hedonistic pleasures, coy turns of phrase, tasty guitars, enigmatic vocals & edgy hooks; CRACK, CRACK HEART ATTACK is a tight snapshot of an unblemished rock spirit who could hold it back no longer.

The Last Danger www.laexplosion.com Danger, the seventh fulllength album, by The Last preserves the legendary Los Angeles punk outfit’s patented sound while adding a kinetic spark. This is everything that fans have been waiting seventeen years for and so much more. For Danger The Last have added members Bill Stevenson (Descendents, ALL, Black Flag, FLAG, Only Crime) and Karl Alvarez (Descendents, ALL).

Dilana

Beautiful Monster www.dilanarocks.com

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n 2012, Dilana took to the studio to record ten new tracks, featuring an original sound and style that expresses some of her deepest emotions regarding the events in her life that have affected her both personally, and as a professional musician. The album, titled “Beautiful Monster,” was produced, engineered and mixed by Jack Endino at SoundHouse Recording Studio in Seattle, Washington. Endino’s roster with SoundHouse has included working with Nirvana, David Byrne, Soundgarden, Dave Matthews and other top artist’s recordings.

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Earl Klugh

Jazz

Handpicked

George Cotsirilos Trio Variations www.OA2records.com Variations, guitarist George Cotsirilos’ sixth recording, is a well-behaved trio affair in keeping with his more recent recordings like Past Present (OA2 Records, 2010).

Cotsirilos plays with an acoustically round electric tone that never gets in the way of his fluid lines and wellconsidered melodies. His seven original compositions all have standards handle to them, in particular, the opener, “A Walk for Ethel,” which recalls “I Get a Kick Out of You” crossed with “Scrapple from the Apple.”

Tarun Balani Sacred World www.tarunbalani.wordpress.com Tarun Balani is a drummer, composer, percussionist and music educator living in New Delhi, India. In 2012, at age 27, Tarun released his debut record “Sacred World”, which has been said to “point to the future of jazz in India.” (Time Out, India).

www.earlklugh.com

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n a recording career of over three decades, master guitarist Earl Klugh has been lauded as a prodigy and a groundbreaker of contemporary jazz. Klugh’s highly-anticipated Concord debut, ‘HandPicked’, is a self-produced solo album with guest guitarists Bill Frisell, Vince Gill, Jake Shimabukuro and others. Klugh interprets standards and pop hits ranging from “Lullaby of Birdland” to “Cast Your Fate to the Wind,” “’Round Midnight,” The Beatles’ “If I Fell” and The Eagles’ “Hotel California.

Dan Willis and Velvet Gentlemen The Satie Project II www.danwillis.com A variety of arranging styles from a classic jazz standards approach to free improvisations, and pop stylings to classical chamber music. His fourth cd, Willis puts his own twist on 14 classic Erik Satie Compositions.

Ghost Train Orchestra Book of Rhapsodies www.ghosttrainorchestra.com Brian Carpenters surreal re-imagining of the work of four 1930s composers, whose work straddled the line between jazz and classical Alec Wilder, Charlie Shavers, Reginald Foresythe, and Raymond Scott.

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Colorado Conservatory For the Jazz Arts Hang Time www.caprirecords.com

The Colorado Conservatory for the Jazz Arts has, as part of their curriculum, a jazz recording camp which teaches young musicians about the business of music. They spend most of their classes honing their musical skills but this is where they learn about making a living playing jazz. There are 14 original compositions on this release composed by the students who are split into two groups.

Chip Stephens Trio Relevancy www.caprirecords.com Pianist and composer Chip Stephens returns with an all new trio consisting of Dennis Carroll on bass and Joel Spencer on drums, both top names on the Chicago jazz scene. The musical compositions come from a diverse group of great writers with Syndrome by Carla Bley, Like Someone In Love by Jimmy Van Huesen, This Funny World by Rogers and Hart, 34 Skidoo by Bill Evans, Be My Love by Sammy Cahn and 3 originals by Chip Stephens.

Louis Colaiannia The Next Stage www.louismusic.com

The music of Louis Colaiannia (coal-ee-AH-nah) is like a tree – with many branches, as well as deep roots. Spreading out from a foundation of classical music with influences of Mozart and Beethoven, Louis’ current sound has grown into the genres of contemporary instrumental, jazz, new age, chill, world music, and more. His latest release entitled The Next Stage brings all these elements together into a unique blend that can be both relaxing and energizing at the same time.

Tom Carleno Perfect Imperfection www.tomcarleno.com Tom Carleno’s highly anticipated debut solo CD, Perfect Imperfection, is the culmination of a journey through anxiety, mourning, self-discovery and enlightenment.

Blending rock, jazz, folk and pop, the Denver based guitarist creates distinctive compositions using a wide variety of alternate tunings.

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Wayne Wallace Latin Jazz/Jazz Latin www.patoisrecords.com

More than a bit of word play, the title of the Wayne Wallace Latin Jazz Quintet s revelatory new CD, Latin Jazz Jazz Latin represents the cyclical sensibility that animates Wayne Wallace’s music. Every tune reflects the inexorable flow of rhythmic currents between Caribbean and African-American communities, a diaspora communion responsible for unprecedented creative ferment. An invaluable creative catalyst on the Bay Area music scene since the 1970s, the five-time Grammy Award-nominee is revered as an educator, player, arranger, and producer with his label, Patois Records. Latin Jazz - Jazz Latin, is Wayne Wallace Latin Jazz Quintet s seventh Patois Records release, and the album displays all of the thrilling interplay, melodic invention, and blazing improvisational flights that distinguishes his music.

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SIKpromotions.com

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Tasty Food and Drinks!

Sail Pavilion Friday Night “BREWS & BITES”

Epicurean Hotel Grand Awakening Weekend - Jan 17 - 19

Sail Brews & Bites Food Truck Rally on the second Friday of each month. A rolling celebration of food and fun, Brews & Bites will feature a fleet of area food trucks, and live entertainment from local musicians at the venue’s unique 360-degree waterfront bar. The first event of the New Year will take place Friday, January

Highlighted by the Epicurean’s star chef Chad Johnson and celebrity chefs such as Norman Van Aken, the Grand Awakening weekend will showcase the new

10 from 6 to 10 p.m. and will feature specialty Captain Morgan drinks to celebrate the upcoming Gasparilla Pirate Fest. 333 S. Franklin St, Tampa, Fla. (813) 3731193. Friday, December 13, 2013 from 6 to 10 p.m. www.tampaconventioncenter.com

Chateau Kwasin WineFest - Jan 29 The Abilities Foundation announces Chateau Kwasin WineFest Wednesday, January 29, from 6-9 pm, to benefit job placement services for wounded veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan. The exclusive event will be held at 3613 S. Beach Drive, Tampa, FL, 33629, the home of Fine Wine & Spirits owner Mike Kwasin, a longtime Foundation benefactor.

“Mike opens his heart and magnificent residence to the Abilities Foundation and other fine charities each month,” said president and CEO Frank DeLucia. “He’s netted and donated more than $94,000 in support of local nonprofit organizations, which is a remarkable achievement.”

Guests will enjoy beachfront ambiance, appetizers and sample more than 40 premium wines such as Inglenook, Cuvaison, Rodney Strong, Cass, Barlow, and more, and can purchase wines at discount prices.

For information call 727-600-8911 or fdelucia@ abilities.org.

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137-room boutique hotel and offer guests a flavorful lineup of wine tastings, culinary classes and soirees that will encompass every area from the lobby to the rooftop. The food-focused Epicurean Hotel will feature a state-of-the-art culinary classroom known as the Epicurean Theatre; its signature Élevage restaurant; Edge Social Drinkery rooftop bar; Chocolate Pi pâtisserie; Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits wine shop; and the full-service Spa Evangeline (opening Feb. 2014). The hotel has created two special grand opening weekend packages: Connoisseurs of Life Package, and Grand Awakening Package. While the weekend will be carefully crafted by Chef Chad Johnson, it will also features wines from renowned houses. Selections for classes throughout the weekend include a wide variety of topics ranging from “No Experience Necessary” with chef/ author Norman Van Aken and Donald Patz, the founder of Patz & Hall winery, to “What’s Old is New Again” focusing on the resurgence of old vine varieties of California wines. For a complete list of Grand Awakening weekend activities, class descriptions and more, visit www.epicureanhotel/grandawakening (855) 829-2536.

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www.clearwaterbeachuncorked.com

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Tasty Food and Drinks!

7th Annual Forks & Corks Food & Wine Festival - January 24 - 27 www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks

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orks & Corks Food & Wine Festival, a four-day culinary festival presented by The Sarasota-Manatee Originals (SMO), unites food, wine and beer enthusiasts with preeminent regional chefs and celebrated vintners from around the

world. The festival, January 24-27, 2014, features various winemaker events at area restaurants and retail shops (January 24, 25); interactive wine seminars (January 25); The Grand Tasting in The Ringling Museum’s courtyard (January 26); and a trade event for area restaurants, retailers and hoteliers (January 27). Each participating winery will submit wines of their choice to be judged by a panel of wine professionals in advance of the festival. Winning wines will be awarded

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gold, silver or bronze in a number of categories. Event goers will have an opportunity to purchase all of the wines—including the awardwinners—at The Grand Tasting.

The Grand Tasting, which features signature dishes from the

area’s top chefs, along with a vast array of wines and beers presented by guest vintners and breweries, is Sunday, January 26, noon to 4 p.m., at The Ringling Museum.

“We selected more than 60 renowned wineries to be represented by winemakers at the event,” says Kate Atkin, executive director of SMO, adding that guests will be able to purchase favorite wines after sampling them. “Many of the unique wines available to taste at The Grand Tasting are not readily

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available for purchase locally, so we always suggest that people buy that day.”

The Grand Tasting tickets are $95 (plus service charges) and include free admission to the museum’s art galleries on the day of the event. VIP tickets are $250 (plus service charges) and include a $100 wine voucher for purchases made at The Grand Tasting, VIP parking, early admission to the event, a champagne reception, a guided tour of the art museum, covered seating at the event, and an invitation to the kick-off party. Tickets for The Grand Tasting can only be purchased online at www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks This year’s The Grand Tasting will feature a silent auction of fine wines to benefit All Faiths Food Bank. “Raising money for area non-profit groups is a vital element of this event,” says Atkin. “We’ve raised more than $220,000 over the past six years for our charitable partners and hope to continue to raise much needed money for these worthy organizations.”

For more information about the seventh annual Forks & Corks Food & Wine Festival, 941-365-2800.

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learwater Beach Uncorked’s third annual food and wine beachside extravaganza will be held on February 8th and 9th, from 1p.m. to 5p.m., beachside in front of the Hyatt Regency Clearwater Beach Resort and Spa. Clearwater Beach Uncorked will offer the perfect pre-Valentine’s Day beach weekend filled with an extensive array of sweet and savory samplings complemented by an impressive selection of wines, spirits and craft beers from around the globe. South Gulfview Boulevard’s transformation will encourage guests to venture between the one-of-a-kind Uncorked Spirits Beach Bar and the Grand Tasting Village to meet and mingle with wine specialists, vintners & brew masters, and the areas best and brightest chefs. The Grand Tasting Village will include delicious samplings from the area’s top restaurants, wine from over 100 wineries and an exciting array of micro-brews and craft beers. Guests can also slip away to the Uncorked Spirits Beach Club to capture a breath taking view and sample spirits that will satisfy any tastemaker’s palate. This year a Decadent Dessert tent will showcase Bubbles on the Beach featuring bubbles, sweets, pastries and all things rich and gooey just in time for Valentine’s Day. Clearwater Beach Uncorked will be a weekend-long epicurean experience allowing guests to explore the relaxed and delicious facets of Clearwater Beach.

Guests will have the option of purchasing general admission tickets for $85 or opt for a premium VIP experience, available on Saturday, for $125. VIP access will grant epicureans and influencers an exceptional VIP area with exclusive restaurants and reserve wines, single malt whiskeys and rare scotches. They will also receive an extravagant Clearwater Beach Uncorked swag bag with the latest in food, fashion and beauty.

Clearwater Beach Uncorked will donate a portion of the proceeds from ticket sales to the University of South Florida Sarasota-Manatee College of Hospitality and Technology Leadership. Funds will be used to develop academic programs, scholarships, research grants and campus infrastructure.

Clearwater Beach Uncorked has also partnered with USFSM’s College of Hospitality and Technology Leadership to implement an educational component incorporating Clearwater Beach Uncorked into the student’s Fall curriculum.

For more information, visit www.clearwaterbeachuncorked.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Tasty Food and Drinks!

THE STUART SOCIETY ‘s WORLDCLASS WINE WEEKEND - February 7 - 9 www.wineweekendstpete.org

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ome of the world’s top wines will flow and will be auctioned during Wine Weekend St. Pete 2014, benefiting The Margaret Acheson Stuart Society of the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg. Four events will highlight the weekend of February 7-9. A special evening, “The Grape Escape,” on Saturday, February 1, will set the tone for the following weekend.

“The Grape Escape”: Partygoers will gather for drinks and hors d’oeuvres on Feb 1 at a stunning Snell Isle home. Guests will then be escorted to waiting limousines, which will whisk them away to incredible wine and culinary adventures. Each limousine will go to a different location.

“Let the Party Begin,” an elegant sponsor and VIP black-tie dinner at the MFA, launches Wine Weekend St. Pete on Feb 7. The evening will begin with champagne, followed by an exquisite dinner and select wines in the Marly Room. Featured vintners that night will be

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Squire Fridell of GlenLyon Vineyard and Winery and Ron Lachini of Lachini Vineyards. Tyson Grant, Executive Chef at Parkshore Grill, will prepare the dinner.

The Gala Dinner and Wine Auction is on Feb 8, in the Renaissance Vinoy Resort and Golf Club. The finest wines will be served with a gourmet dinner, prepared by Executive Chef Mark Heimann. There will Nick Allen be both a silent and live auction. Nick Allen of Carte Blanche Wine, Helen Keplinger and DJ Warner of Keplinger Wines, and Mike Hirby of Relic Wine Cellars will be the featured vintners. Rare vintages from around the globe will be available for bidding.

The duPont Registry Concours d’Elegance premieres this year, also on Sunday, from 10 a.m.- 3 p.m. on the Museum grounds. The duPont Registry specializes in luxury, and these classic cars, which are works of art in their own right, will not disappoint.

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www.oldsmarcares.org

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Tasty Food and Drinks!

& Spirits, the host sponsor, will feature more than 100 vintners with a variety of wines, including reds, whites, champagnes, domestic and imported. Delicious food Einstein on Food & Wine 2014 - and desserts from more than 50 different local restaurants will also be featured.

Jan 31 - Feb 1 This year the Annus Mirabilis dinner features comedian-turned chef Alex www.mosi.org/einstein.aspx Thomopoulos on Friday, January 31st, at 7 p.m. in a private home on beautiinstein on Food & ful Bayshore Boulevard. This incredible Wine 2014 is a celevening of fine dining, free-flowing wine ebration of the senses and fascinating conversation benefits that showcases the the education programs at MOSI. Call delicious and diverse 813-987-6000 for more information. cuisine of Tampa Bay Now the host of HUNGRY’s “Bites & alongside the palate Booze: Gluten Free” and “Gluten Free pleasers of winemakers with Alex T”, Alex Thomopoulos is a from around the country. stand-up comic turned chef who was This year’s event will feature a tremendiagnosed with Celiac Disease in 2010. dous variety of wine, a beer garden, Alex Thomopoulos After more than two years doing standcelebration of the senses throughout up comedy in Los Angeles, Alex often the science center, samplings from top found greater joy in the kitchen cooking local restaurants, restaurant competition, live entertainthen on stage performing. She enrolled in the Internament, and a charity auction all for a significant cause, tional Culinary School at the Art Institute, and soon afthe education programs at MOSI. ABC Fine Wine & ter started her own catering company. Her unique and Spirits, the host sponsor, will feature more than 100 flavor packed cooking style has led to a growing sucvintners with a variety of wines, including reds, whites, cess for her and her business. champagnes, domestic and imported. ABC Fine Wine

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CALIFORNIA GRILL

Re-Imagined

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I am from the school of “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” When I heard they were noodling around (no pun intended) with one of the best restaurants in the country, I’ll admit I had misgivings. The California Grill (atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World) had consistently garnered rave reviews from diners and food critics alike. But I do understand the need for change in the highly competitive restaurant business, and, since this particular restaurant is associated with the Disney organization – whose standards are very high — I figured they probably knew what they were doing.

The restaurant was closed for months of remodeling and menu tweaking. It re-opened recently, and I was so very pleased to find at a tasting that the new restaurant layout is attractive and makes good use of space. It is still reminiscent of sunny California with subdued shades of yellow and orange predominating.

Everything is fresh and seasonal

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Photos and story by Melissa Wolcott Martino and Al Martino

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The most breathtaking floor-toceiling panoramic window views of all the Walt Disney World parks and beyond remains intact, and is a must to experience at sunset and later on for the fireworks displays. As you step off the elevator to enter the restaurant, you are faced with an impressive display of wine bottles. Indeed, the restaurant has a large wine list of about 250 selections, along with craft beers and refreshing signature cocktails, thanks to sommelier Michael Scheifler.

Most important, however, is that the California Grill menu is still excellent, and Executive Chef Brian Piasecki is still at the helm.

Chefs prepare sushi in the open kitchen

Executive Chef Brian Piasecki

Chef Brian has been with various Disney resort restaurants since 1991, and the California Grill since 2009. He has given it his creative vision of seasonal foodstuffs, with a heavy emphasis on “fresh.” His dishes are elegant without being pretentious.

Each dish presentation may be beautiful to look at, but it is also well thought out for complimentary tastes. He likes to create some unexpected dishes for a more interesting dining experience, such as his tasty “Duck in all its Glory” appetizer with house-made sausage, rillettes, prosciutto, duck liver pate, and cranberry compote.

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CALIFORNIA GRILL A full rainbow greeted us as we entered Disney’s Contemporary Resort, home to the California Grill. (This one was courtesy of Mother Nature, not the Disney Imagineers.)

Always a spectacular view from the California Grill’s floorto-ceiling windows.

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Putting the finishing touches on an appetizer.

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A colorful sushi platter.

Although there are new items on the menu, some old favorites have remained with slight updates. One of my favorite entrees has to be the Pork Two Ways, with grilled tenderloin, goat cheese polenta, mushrooms, and applesauce. Some other popular entrees are the Oak-fired Filet of Beef with heirloom tomato risotto, marinated baby vine tomatoes, petite basil and tomato butter, and the Florida Red Snapper with warm crimson lentil salad, buttered vegetables, lemon foam, and almond pistou.

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An inviting duck meats display.

Beautiful sushi platters www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Pork Belly Nigiri sushi

Yuzu-Marinated Sashimi

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CALIFORNIA GRILL

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The restaurant’s new look has an open kitchen and attractive display cases for sushi, which also has an expanded menu. The sushi concoctions are almost too pretty to eat. For my taste, I particularly enjoyed the California Combination Roll with jumbo lump crab with avocado and cucumber and shrimp tempura, and the Pork Belly Nigri with house-cured pork, bacon, yuzu rice and spicy teriyaki.

Chocolate lovers will love the California Grill’s luscious Chocolate Pudding Cake with nutella filling, meringue kisses, and mint chantilly, and cheesecake lovers will love the Lemon Meringue Cheesecake with lemon-mascarpone, citrus cookie, and charred meringue clouds.

It turns out that the California Grill’s “newness” is to be embraced, and should be on every foodie’s bucket list.

For more information, please visit disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/

Seasonal Sundae cleverly served in a mason jar

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Pastry chef Jeff Barnes with one of his amazing edible sugar art concoctions.

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2014 The new year spells new excitement as 2014 heralds magical events, special openings and much more at Walt Disney World Resort and beyond. Here’s a look at what’s in store in the Vacation Kingdom from January through May.

Expanded Expo, New Events Added to 2014 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend - Jan 8 - 12

The 2014 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend presented by Cigna will take place Jan. 8 – 12 at Walt Disney World Resort. New in 2014 is the Walt Disney World 10K and the Dopey Challenge, in which participants run the 5K, 10K, half marathon and marathon (48.6 miles over the course of 4 days). These new runDisney events join the runDisney Kids’ Races, Disney Family Fun Run 5K, the Walt Disney World Half Marathon, the Walt Disney World Marathon and Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge (running both the half and full marathon). Disney’s Health and Fitness Expo at ESPN Wide World of Sports has expanded to 4 days and will feature runDisney merchandise, a speaker series and the latest in running fashion and technology.

Play Ball! Atlanta Braves Spring Training Welcomes Top Teams to Champion Stadium at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex Atlanta Braves Spring Training returns to Walt Disney World in February and March with a slate of games featuring Major League Baseball’s top teams at ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex.

The 2014 schedule has yet to

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be released, but the list of Grapefruit League clubs that commonly visit Champion Stadium include the St. Louis Cardinals, New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies, New York Mets and Detroit Tigers.

Guests also will be treated to game day entertainment and additional fan experiences in a way only Disney can do, from character appearances, to an exclusive On-Field Spectator Experience and kids running the bases after the game.

Kermit and Miss Piggy Topiaries Debut at 21st Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival - March 5 to May 18

Disney gardeners will paint the landscape with rainbows of blooms while Epcot chefs tempt guests with marketplace tastes during the 21st Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival.

New in 2014, a floral Miss Piggy will join Kermit and his blooming banjo in the World Showcase topiary display.

The garden party continues for 75 days. The foodand-beverage marketplaces will return with new menu items for Disney guests to enjoy, such as Piggylicious Bacon Cupcakes and a Barbecued Chicken Leg at the Smokehouse Barbecue Marketplace. As they sample from marketplace menus of gustatory delights, guests can wander among themed gardens and children’s play areas. Most gardens will be illuminated when the sun sets to extend the festival fun.

At the Festival Center, daily interactive gardening seminars will set the stage for outdoor do-it-yourself inspiration, and popular HGTV

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celebrities will headline weekend seminars filled with home, garden and design ideas.

Two new acts will hit the stage at America Gardens Theatre during the 2014 Flower Power Concert Series: Gary Lewis and the Playboys (“This Diamond Ring”) and The Alan Parsons Live Project (“Eye in the Sky”).

Other pop acts set to perform include The Guess Who (“America Woman”), Chubby Checker & the Wildcats, The Village People, Paul Revere & The Raiders and Herman’s Hermits starring Peter Noone. (Entertainment is subject to change.)

For more information about the 21st Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival, call 407/W-DISNEY (934-7639). The festival, including all gardening programs and exhibits, is included in regular Epcot admission.

Disney Dreamers Academy with Steve Harvey and Essence Magazine - March 6 - 9

U.S. high school students ages 13-19 participate in this innovative outside-the-classroom educational and mentoring program. The 2014 Disney Dreamers Academy, now in its seventh year, will take place March 6 – 9.

Disney Dreamers Academy continues to hold true to its mission to inspire and fuel the dreams of teens, help them discover a world of possibilities and help them prepare for the future. Annually, 100 U.S. high school students, selected from thousands of applications, embark on an all-expense-paid trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida for an immersive four-day program that inspires and fuels their dreams.

Disney Cruise Line at Castaway Cay

The Disney Fantasy docks at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the tropical waters of the Bahamas,

reserved exclusively for Disney Cruise Line guests.

In a setting of crystal-clear turquoise waters, powdery white-sand beaches and lush landscapes, the 1,000acre island offers one-of-a-kind areas and activities for every member of the family.

Out-of-this-World Fun! Star Wars Weekends set for May and June 2014 - May & June

Star Wars Weekends returns to the Walt Disney World Resort in May and June 2014, as Disney’s Hollywood Studios becomes Star Wars central for guests of all ages. Specific dates for the annual sci-fi fan-fest will be announced at a later date.

Each year, the power of the Force and magic of Disney combine as plenty of out-of-this-world characters – including Wookiees, droids, Ewoks, bounty hunters and Jedi – roam the streets of the theme park and pose in themed meet-and-greet areas. Guests can experience one of the largest Star Wars parades in the world during the day and then dance the night away at the surprise-filled “Hyperspace Hoopla.”

Jedi Training Academy, one of the interactive entertainment experiences at the theme park, is expanded during the event and allows young guests to learn from a Jedi Master before testing their newly acquired skills in a battle with Darth Vader or Darth Maul.

Also featured: the chance for fans to purchase oneof-a-kind and limited edition Star Wars memoribilia, Star Wars trivia and star conversations with Star Wars celebrities.

Event activities are included in regular theme park admission to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

For more information and future updates, guests may check online at www.DisneyWorld.com

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ORLANDO HAPPENINGS New in Orlando for 2014 Building on the popularity of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter, Universal Orlando Resort will bring to life some of the experiences and places found in and around London in the Harry Potter books and films. Diagon Alley and ‘London’ will be located within Universal Studios Florida, which is adjacent to Universal’s Islands of Adventure, where guests now experience Hogwarts and Hogsmeade. When complete, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Diagon Alley will feature shops, a restaurant and an innovative, marquee attraction based on Gringotts bank. Guests will be able to travel between ‘London’ and Hogsmeade aboard the Hogwarts Express.

Orlando’s tallest and steepest free-fall waterslide is coming to Aquatica – SeaWorld’s Waterpark. Ihu’s Breakway Falls will be the only multi-slide of its kind in Orlando.

Visitors with a need for speed will love the new IDrive Indoor Kart Racing. This multi-level entertainment center includes a half-mile (805-meter) track for the electric-powered go-karts, bowling lanes and an arcade.

Located in the heart of downtown Orlando, the $429 million Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts will be the new home for Broadway productions and Orlando Ballet among other performances.

The arts center will include two performance theaters, a 300-seat community theater, outdoor plaza and banquet room.

Walt Disney World Resort will complete the final phase of New Fantasyland – the largest expansion in Magic Kingdom history – with the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train Coaster. This family coaster will transport guests on a musical ride into the mine “where a million diamonds shine.” Also coming to Magic Kingdom this year is Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade, an all-new daytime parade featuring characters and music from memorable Disney films.

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Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is soon to be the fourth and largest on-site hotel at Universal Orlando Resort. Inspired by retro resorts of the 1950s and 60s, the 1800-room hotel will feature moderately priced family suites and value-priced guest rooms. When complete, guests can experience a 10-

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gave birth to Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Wile E. Coyote, and their comrades, and turned these entertaining animated short films into a cultural phenomenon.

The exhibition focuses on each step of the animation process and how it contributed to the overall success of the cartoon. From camera movements and musical cues, to witty dialogue and expressive drawings, each step of the process was perfected to convey the attitudes and charm of the characters. For the first time in

lane bowling alley and enjoy two massive pools with sand beaches, a lazy river, waterslide and more.

DUPLO Valley at LEGOLAND Florida will bring the LEGO DUPLO line of preschool building toys to life for Orlando’s youngest visitors. The new farm-themed attractions, including a train, mini tractor ride and water play area, are geared to toddlers ages 2 to 5.

9th Annual Otronicon - Jan 17 - 20 A four-day event, Otronicon is a celebration of interactive technology using video games to demonstrate

animated history, this beloved gang of misfits brought irreverent, street-smart humor to the screen.

Visit thehistorycenter.org for more information.

Water Ski Show on Lake Silver in Winter Haven - Jan 1 - Dec 31, 2014 The Cypress Gardens Water Ski Team (reestablished in 2012 by former theme park employees) is back and has a new home on Lake Silver in Winter Haven, FL. Shows take place the 3rd Saturday of every month and begin at 6:00pm (March – October) and 4:30pm (November – February). Admission is free.

Interesting tidbit – the age range for the majority of the team? mid-40s to a few in their 60s! Bring lawn chairs for seating.

Lake Silver, 100 S. Lake Silver Dr. NW, Winter Haven, FL 33883. Free admission. 863-521-2808. www.cypressgardenswaterskiteam.com/

the future of how we live, learn, work and play. The event features: Larger-than-life video game experiences; State-of-the-art medical and military simulators; Workshops taught by industry pros and more.

Whether you’re a video game fan or just wondered what it is your kids are doing in front of that computer, there’s something for everyone at Otronicon, Orlando’s biggest interactive technology expo.

Orlando Science Center, 777 East Princeton Street, Orlando, FL. 407-514-2000. www.otronicon.org/index.php Orange County Regional History Center: The Art of Warner Bros. Cartoons from an exhibition created by the Museum of Modern Art, New York, N.Y. - Jan 25 - March 23. Discover the secrets of how America’s favorite cartoons pioneered a new kind of animated humor in The Art of Warner Bros.

Cartoons exhibition at the Orange County Regional History Center. Learn about the creative process that

VisitOrlando.com for more information on Orlando

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he T n O Seen ne

THE AMAZING SPACE SHUTTLE ATLANTIS at Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex

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rom the moment you step into the newest attraction at the Kennedy Space Center, you are swept up in the excitement and drama that surrounds the Space Shuttle Atlantis. The crown jewel shuttle is in a $100-million, 90,000-square-foot home. Guests have a 360° view of the orbiter, which maintains it’s natural worn look attained from it’s 33 missions. Its payload bay doors are open and its robotic arm extended. The presentation is thoroughly engaging, literally and figuratively. NASA’s 30year Space Shuttle Program is told through exhibits and many hands-on displays that will enthrall children and adults alike.

For more information on Kennedy Space Center Complex, visit www.KennedySpaceCenter.com For more photos of this event, please visit

http://ampubs.smugmug.com/ACCENT-ON-TAMPA-BAY-MAGAZINE/ORLANDO-AREA/Atlantis-SpaceShuttle-Kennedy/31050470_222Jgc#!i=2685872090&k=XGKJRq9

Quite a few youth groups were aboard to experience the history cruise.

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RANSFORMERS: The Ride 3D is a mind-blowing, action-packed ride experience that pushes the limits of technology to place guests in the middle of a largerthan-life battle between the Autobots and the Decepticons. The ride was created under license from Hasbro, Inc. and is based on its iconic TRANSFORMERS brand.

The battle begins when guests enter the NEST facility — the headquarters for the government operation that partners with the Autobots to protect Earth from the Decepticons. While inside, they are recruited to help protect the AllSpark — a powerful energy source that would allow the Decepticons to destroy the planet. Guests board EVAC, an Autobot created exclusively for the attraction, to transport the AllSpark to safety. But beware the Decepticons are in close pursuit.

For more information about Universal Orlando and TRANSFORMERS: The Ride 3D, visit www.universalorlando.com

NEW WILD DAYS Weekends Jan 11 - 26

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onnect even deeper to animals and the wonderful world we share during Wild Days this January. Families can enjoy three weekends of interactive shows and up-close animal encounters.

January 11-12 – Jack Hanna Weekend - Join “Jungle Jack” for a wild weekend of furry and feathered fun. Recognized around the world for his boundless enthusiasm for animals and conservation, Jack Hanna helps us share in his wondrous connection to wildlife and the world we share.

January 18-19 – Sea Rescue Weekend - Meet the leaders in the world of animal rescue and rehabilitation as they share incredible stories that have been featured on the national show, Sea Rescue. SeaWorld’s Animal Rescue team is on call 24/7, 365 days a year to help ill or injured animals, and for nearly 40 years the team has rescued more than 22,000 animals.

January 25-26 – Penguin Lovers’ Weekend with SeaWorld Animal Ambassador Julie Scardina. Penguin Lovers of the world unite! Don’t miss this refreshingly fun and educational weekend centered all around penguins.

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Luv Chicken Booster Cushion

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he Luv Chicken Booster Cushion is the perfect solution for boosting little ones up to the table and providing comfort on a plane, train and automobile.Made from kid-safe coated fabric, the cushion is easy to wipe clean. The non-slip bottom keeps the cushion in place. When on the go, its light weight and handle makes it easy for anyone to carry. Great for restaurants and the movie theater. www.luv-chicken.com

Hess Toy Truck & Tractor

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he 2013 Hess toy truck is a beautifully chrome detailed truck and trailer with loading ramp, custom designed to haul a versatile, self-propelled tractor.

The truck Features Include: 45 lights that work in flash or steady mode; Hidden, extendable rear loading ramp with sound effects; 4 realistic sounds: ignition/idle, horn, backup alert, and hydraulic lift. The self-propelled, multipurpose tractor has both front and rear buckets, and a fully motorized rubber track to take on the toughest terrain.

The Tractor Features Include: 15 working lights; Motorized forward / reverse motion; Locking front bucket with release button; and 360° swiveling back bucket. www.hesstoytruck.com/

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Crayola Classics for iPod touch

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hey look like the familiar Crayola crayon wrapper that you grew up with. But, beneath the wave, they are hard-working protective cases for your (or your kids’) iPod touch, tough enough to shrug off everyday bruises and bumps. The custom-molded case protects the edges, corners, and back of your iPod, without hindering access to your Multi-Touch display. Strategically-placed cutouts provide access to camera, ports, and controls. The cases are available in Crayola colors Caribbean Green, Cotton Candy, Purple Pizzazz, and Blue Berry. www.store.griffintechnology.com/

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D Retro Rock Music Themed Clothing for Kids

esigner Laura Angotti has brought nostalgia to parents by offering classic rocker tees to the little ones from the Rowdy Sprout product line. These hip and funky styles are offered to children anywhere from 3 months to 8 years. The quality shirts are practical, made with soft blends, and are made in the USA. Rowdy Sprout can be found in 300 boutiques nationwide. Products available are onesies, tees, loungewear, dresses and sweatshirts, featuring such bands as Van Halen, Kiss, AC/ DC, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Blondie and many more. For more information visit www.rowdysprout.com

Doggie Doo & Pop The Pig Games

KIDZ GEAR HEADPHONES

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ames only a kid could love ...and love them they do! Family fun for the 4+ ages.

Doggie Doo is a hit with the kids. Feed and walk your little pup, if he makes a mess you clean it up.

When you squeeze his leash makes a Gassy sound that it gets louder and louder until plop. The first to clean up after the dog three times wins.

For 2-4 players.

Who’s going to Pop the Pig??? Everyone takes turns rolling the die to see how many chomps the pig will take. Feed the pig and push down

on his head the number of times shown on the burger.

With every pump, the pig’s stomach will get bigger, bigger and bigger! If he pops on your turn, you win!

For 2-4 players. www.goliathgames.us/

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idzControl Volume Limit Headphones keep children quiet and busy while playing with their audio devices at home or on the road.

The Kidz Gear Volume Limit Technology ensures the safest listening experience while helping protect a child’s hearing. Now available in five new colors: pink, orange, blue, green and purple, the headphones are compatible with all audio devices that use a 3.5mm (1/8) audio jack, including MP3 players, iPads, iPods, game consoles, and even standard DVD and CD players. The technology works by limiting the volume to approx. 80% of the maximum volume output capable from audio devices. The headphones are ergonomically designed with soft padded child-size ear-cups at high-quality audio components. www.smartmomjewelry.com/

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DVD VIEWS

Compiled by Papande Newman

TV Shows 90210 – 5th Season www.Paramount.com Actors: Shenae Grimes, AnnaLynne McCord, Tristan Wilds The fifth and final season of “90210” follows the group from West Beverly kids as they navigate life after high school. Their journey into adulthood will find them heading in different directions while trying to keep the same closeness that worked so well for them in high school. Coming from a world of glamour and privilege, with endless possibilities in front of them, anything can happen.

THE CAROL BURNETT SHOW: This Time Together, Collector’s Ed. www.TimeLife.com

The Carol Burnett Show is one of the most popular and beloved shows in the history of television and it is now available on DVD to all audiences for the very first time.

Starting in 1967 and continuing for 11 straight years, The Carol Burnett Show was the ultimate variety show with music, acting, larger-than-life guest stars, and, of course, comedy.. sketches, jokes and parodies that are as funny now as they were 40 years ago.

HAWAII FIVE-O – 4th Season www.paramount.com Starring: Alex O’Loughlin, Scott Caan, Daniel Dae Kim, Grace Park, Terry O’Quinn, Tom Sizemore HAWAII FIVE-0 is a contemporary take on the classic series about a new elite federalized task force whose mission is to wipe out the crime that washes up on the Islands’ sun-drenched beaches. Enjoy this

PERCEPTION – Complete First Season www.amazon.com Enter the brilliant mind of Dr. Daniel Pierce, and relive every thrilling case of Perception: The Complete First Season.

Experience an original twist on the classic crime drama as Emmy Award winner Eric McCormack (best lead actor in a comedy series, 2001, Will & Grace), stars as an eccentric neuroscience professor whose revealing visions help him uncover what lies beneath conscious emotion.

Though recruited by the FBI for his masterful understanding of the human mind, Daniel's odd and offbeat view makes it difficult for him to get close to anyone. His former student, Agent Kate Moretti (Rachael Leigh Cook), is one of the few people willing to accept Daniel's peculiarities in exchange for his imaginative solutions.

MOD SQUAD:

Complete Collection

Actors: Michael Cole, Peggy Lipton, Clarence Williams III

www.visualentertainment.tv The Mod Squad involved three hipper-than-hip undercover cops with a touch of menace and plenty of attitude. Younger looking than they were, these three police officers were able to earn the confidence of the bad guys, infiltrate their domain, and then bust their backsides while still looking good. Miami Vice was still a decade away. The Mod Squad paved the way for hip and happening POlice on TV! 74

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CHILDREN BARNEY: Imagine With Barney www.lionsgate.com

Come along for an imagination extravaganza! Join Barney and his friends as they use their imaginations to visit places near and far, and explore their creativity through drawing, song and dance!

The dinos explore a tropical island paradise when they bring a painting to life, and go for a ride when they build their very own bus and airplane using imagination and teamwork! The dinos always know how to have a tee-rific time with creativity and good

FREEDOM FORCE

starring Christopher Lloyd, Sarah Michelle Gellar www.amazon.com There is a plot under way to change the writings of famous authors to influence the course of history. Four kids are chosen to be the Freedom Force—a gang of unlikely heroes who travel through time to change the outcome of sacred stories.

Their great adventure takes them to the deepest jungles, outer space, and underwater cities, but things go horribly wrong when a mad scientist tries to stop them.

TINKER BELL & THE SECRET OF THE WINGS [Blu-Ray] Starring: Timothy Dalton, Lucy Liu, Megan Hilty, Anjelica Huston, Matt Lanter, Jesse McCartney From the world of Disney fairies comes an all-new movie for the whole family that unlocks an amazing secret about Tinker Bell that will change her life forever. Join Tinker Bell and the rest of your favorite fairies in a magical adventure that leads them to discover a new winter fairy world and reveals new winter fairy characters.

IRONMAN ARMORED ADVENTURES

Season 2, Vol 4 (Marvel) www.amazon.com Actors: Adrian Petriw, Daniel Bacon, Anna Cummer, Vincent Tong, Mackenzie Gray Join Tony Stark and his friends as they battle it out to keep control of his father's company, Stark Enterprises and protect the original Iron Man armor! Watch as he fights villains to save his position as the original Iron Man all while being a normal teenager. Will he be able to help a fellow super-hero regain his power? Or will he turn his back on him in an effort to protect himself?

Anything can happen in the superhero world of Iron Man Armored Adventures!

Peter Pan – Diamond Edition [Blu-Ray]

www.disneybluray.com

Starring: Bobby Driscoll, Kathryn Beaumont, Hans Conried, Bill Thompson, Paul Collins, Candy Candido Think of the happiest things as Peter Pan soars to spectacular new heights! Now more sensational than ever with digitally restored picture and brilliant high-definition sound! Bid your cares goodbye as Wendy and her brothers embark on fantastic adventures with the hero of their bedtime stories - Peter Pan! With faith, trust and Tinker Bell’s pixie dust, Peter teaches them how to fly and leads them to the ‘second star to the right’ and beyond - to Never Land! www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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DRAMA BARRYMORE [Blu-Ray]

Actors: Christopher Plummer, John Plumpis www.image-entertainment.com Hailed as “the finest classical actor of North America” (The New York Times), Academy Awardwinner Christopher Plummer (Best Supporting Actor, Beginners) reprises his Tony Award-winning performance as iconic stage and screen idol John Barrymore in this bold and brilliant tour-de-force film. “Mr. Plummer invests a physically and vocally demanding role with so much passion, pathos and wit that Barrymore becomes a celebration of not just one legendary star, but two” (Rex Reed, The New York Observer). At the height of his remarkable career, John Barrymore was the most celebrated entertainer of his generation. The reigning king of both Broadway and Hollywood, his decline and fall from grace was the tragic result of a self-destructive spiral into vice and excess. And now, with his career in tatters, he makes one final attempt to reclaim his former glory on the stage in this powerful, heartbreaking, humorous and compassionate portrait of a tortured soul and living legend.

MURPH THE PROTECTOR [Blu-Ray] Starring John McElhone, Michael P. Murphy, and Maureen Murphy. www.anchorbayentertainment.com Based on the extraordinary life and character of LT Michael Murphy, a Navy SEAL of incredible courage who gave his life for his men; he was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. From his childhood days to his ultimate sacrifice for his fellow SEALs, Michael Murphy led a life based on honor, integrity and dedication to others. This film will ensure his legacy of putting others first is never forgotten.

AMBUSHED [Blu-Ray]

Starring Dolph Lundgren, Randy Couture, Vinnie Jones, Daniel Bonjour and Gianni Capaldi. www.anchorbayentertainment.com In the frenetic underbelly of Los Angeles, Agent Maxwell closes in on an international cocaine smuggling operation run by criminal mastermind Vincent Camastra.

When Agent Beverly Royce goes undercover with the drug dealers and finds herself deeper then she can handle - the case becomes personal for Maxwell who has to combat ruthless killers and dirty cops in an allout action filled finale to bring the criminals to justice.

THE SECRET VILLAGE

Starring: Jonathan Bennett, Ali Faulkner, Stelio Savante, Richard Riehle www.thesecretvillagemovie.com Greg, an unsuccessful screenwriter and Rachel,a beautiful journalist research an outbreak of mass hysteria in a small village. They start to uncover a secret about ergot poisoning that has affected this village for years. But the cult activity has been kept a secret by the locals and when Greg disappears, Rachel is left alone to unravel the mystery and save their lives.

FORCE OF EXECUTION [Blu-Ray] Starring: Danny Trejo, Steven Seagal, Ving Rhames www.anchorbayentertainment.com Alexander Coates’ (Seagal) criminal empire has been good to him - and devastating to his enemies - until his number one hit man, Roman Hurst, messes up what should have been a routine hit. Alexander spares his protege’s life but cripples his hands, thus ‘retiring’ Hurst forever. Before long, though, Alexander realizes that he’ll need Hurst’s help one last time when Iceman, a ruthless killer, surfaces.

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HORROR THE DEMENTED [Blu-Ray] Starring: Kayla Ewell, Richard Kohnke, Ashlee Brian, Brittney Alger, Sarah Butler, Michael Welch www.blu-ray.com/movies/ The-Demented-Blu-ray Six college friends meet up for a carefree weekend that turns deadly. A terrorist attack in a nearby town infects much of the townspeople with a deadly virus that induces rabieslike symptoms, only far more severe. Several of those infected attack the estate where the friends have been vacationing. Can they survive? Where will they hide? Is anyone left? Will we ever get our fill of these flesh eating zombie fiends?

ALYCE KILLS Actors: Jade Dornfeld, James Duval, Eddie Rouse, Larry Cedar, Yorgo Constantine Directors: Jay Lee A young woman struggles to keep it together after tragically killing her best friend. Haunted by guilt she begins to unravel; losing sleep, losing her job and eventually her sanity. When she finally decides to take control, she unleashes enough horror and chaos to satisfy any gorehound.

ALL THE BOYS LOVE MANDY LANE Starring: Amber Heard, Anson Mount, Whitney Able. Director: Jonathan Levine www.anchorbayentertainment.com Amber Heard stars as Mandy Lane, an untouchable Texas high-school beauty who is invited by her classmates to a weekend getaway at a secluded ranch. But as the sun goes down and the party rages on, the festivities take a disturbing turn. And for lovely Mandy Lane, a night of endless horror has just begun. Anson Mount (“Hell On Wheels”), Whitney Able (Monsters) and Michael Welch (The Twilight Saga) co-star in this acclaimed and controversial shocker from director Jonathan Levine (Warm Bodies).

HALLOWEEN 35th Anniversary

Starring: Donald Pleasence, Jamie Lee Curtis, Nancy Loomis, P.J. Soles, Charles Cyphers, Kyle Richards (II) www.anchorbayentertainment.com

Fifteen years ago, Michael Myers brutally murdered his sister. Now, after escaping from a mental hospital, he’s back to relive his grisly crime again, and again... and again.

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Music

THE ROLLING STONES Under Review 1975-1983 (The Ronnie Wood Years Part 1)

BEATLES STORIES A Fab Four Fan’s Ultimate Road Trip Songwriter Seth Swirsky grew up in the 1960s idolizing the Beatles –their songs, their sound and their style. In 2004, he set out, video camera in hand, to talk to people who had crossed paths with his heroes. From Sir Ben Kingsley to Sir George Martin, and Beach Boy Brian Wilson to astronomer Brian Skiff, Swirsky filmed hundreds of personal recollections from people who knew them well to those who just had an unforgettable encounter. With Bonus features.

www.beatlesstories.com

www.mvdb2b.com/ After much tribulation, at the end of 1974 Ronnie Wood arrived to breath new life into the Rolling Stones. This documentary film covers the Stones’ career and music between 1975 and 1983 and includes exclusive interviews, contributions from the finest experts and writers, and rare and classic footage, all soundtracked by the music that, despite it all , remained ‘only rock ‘n’ roll’

STEP UP 4 REVOLUTION Stars: Kathryn McCormick, Ryan Guzman, Cleopatra Coleman www.lionsgate.com Emily arrives in Miami with aspirations to become a professional dancer. She sparks with Sean, the leader of a dance crew whose neighborhood is threatened by Emily’s father’s development plans.

THE RUTLES ANTHOLOGY [Blu-Ray]

www.amazon.com

Starring: Eric Idle, Bill Murray, Gilda Radner

The classic Beatles parody The Rutles (The Prefab Four) are a band known for their visual and aural pastiches and parodies of The Beatles. This originally fictional band, created by Eric Idle and Neil Innes for 1970s television programming, became an actual group (while remaining a parody of The Beatles) and toured and recorded, releasing two UK chart hits.

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COMEDY

SISTERS & BROTHERS

DETENTION OF THE DEAD www.anchorbayent.com Stars: Jacob Zachar, Alexa Nikolas, Christa B. Allen The Breakfast Club meets Zombieland in this headbusting zombedy. A group of teenagers trapped in detention fight for survival after their classmates turn into a ravenous zombie horde. Can a stoner, a jock, a bully, a goth, and a nerd put aside their differences for one night to take on the undead? Will they live to see the morning? Fat chance! This is High School after all.

[BluRay] Stars: Cory Monteith, Dustin Milligan, Amanda Crew www.anchorbayent.com The late Cory Monteith of ‘’Glee’’ and Dustin Milligan of ‘’90210’’ star in the ensemble comedy-drama that takes a surprising look at sibling dysfunctions: Hollywood star Justin and his struggling brother Rory uneasily confront the true price of fame. Long-bickering sisters Nikki and Maggie are thrown together on a road trip gone wrong.

Louise struggles with the challenges of caring for her mentally ill brother. And spoiled teen Sarah is about to meet the gentle half-sister she never knew she had.

Tyler Labine co-stars in this acclaimed charmer about the responsibilities, resentments and love that can only come between Sisters & Brothers.

SHANGHAI CALLING Stars: Geng Le, Daniel Henney, Sean Gallagher www.anchorbayent.com Hotshot Chinese-American attorney Sam Chao is certain he’ll be named a partner at his New York City law firm. Instead, his bosses send him to Shanghai where Sam’s problems soon include a language he doesn’t speak, a culture he can’t understand, a relocation specialist he’s instantly insulted, and a billion dollar deal he’s about to lose. But just when his world is falling apart, will Sam find more than he bargained for in the place he least expected?

www.Netflix.com

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ArtLines Recent Acquisitions: Prints, Drawings, and Photographs thru March 2 The collection has grown by more than 1,100 works since the Hazel Hough Wing opened in 2008. This is in addition to a gift of approximately 15,000 photographs from The Ludmila Dandrew and Chitranee Drapkin Collection. Recent Acquisitions is strong in nineteenth- and twentiethcentury art, like the collection as a whole.

More than 40 exceptional works on paper and photographs, all added in the last five years, will be displayed. The drawings and prints are by such significant artists as Jennifer Bartlett, Leonard Baskin, Carol Dameron, Elaine de Kooning, Wenceslaus Jennifer Bartlett - “Earth” Hollar, Rebecca Sexton Larson, Richard Basil Mock, Pierre-Joseph Redouté, Milton Resnick, Georges Rouault, Jovi Schnell, Charles White, and Ossip Zadkine.

The photography collection is one of the largest and most important in the Southeast and will be admirably represented in this exhibition. Included are choice images by George Booth, George Dureau, Sylvie Eyberg, Ernst Haas, Jason Hailey, Thomas J. Kramer, Amanda Means, Arno Minkkinen, Edward Steichen, and Shen Wei.

tic home in the New Mexico desert landscape, hills, and mountains. Her painting will be joined by another premier American painting in the Museum’s collection, John Sloan’s humorous Cliff Dwellers’ Country (1925). Sloan purchased a home in Santa Fe in 1920 and returned annually for 29 years.

The exhibition also features three of the Museum’s photographs of O’Keeffe’s famous home and the landscape around Abiquiu

by Todd Webb, one of the last protégés of her husband Alfred Stieglitz. O’Keeffe and Webb were longtime friends, and the reclusive artist

New Mexico and the Arts of Enchantment - Jan 18 - May 11 New Mexico has inspired some of the most inventive, diverse, and striking American art ever created. New Mexico and the Arts of Enchantment featuring The Raymond James Financial Collection ranges from pre-Hispanic pottery to twenty-first-century paintings and sculpture. At the center is the MFA’s impressive Georgia O’Keeffe landscape, Grey Hills Painted Red, New Mexico (1930), a gift in 2010 which received international attention. Escaping the intensity of New York City, O’Keeffe found her spiritual and artis80

gave him unusual access to her home and studio MFA, 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-896-2667; www.fine-arts.org

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Fragile Waters - thru Jan 19 Fragile Waters comprises 119 black-and-white photographs by three iconic photographers and environmentalists: Ansel Adams, Ernest H. Brooks II, and

vention.

Arp, Miró, and Calder converged early in their artistic careers. Calder first encountered Arp and Miró in Paris. Calder was undoubtedly influenced by the Surrealism movement’s key players during his time in Paris. The Surrealist Marcel Duchamp suggested Calder call his kinetic works “mobiles.”

Calder developed the closest friendship with Miró; the two bonded over discussions about Surrealism. These relationships, formed during a period in art history resulted in some of the most innovative visual iconographies of the twentieth century.

Sea of Tranquillity - thru Jan 19 The medium-length film Sea of Tranquillity is a combination of live video recordings of actors and digitallygenerated 3D environments in which the viewer makes a night-time visit to a mysterious, mythical cruise liner, the Sea of Tranquility. This fictitious cruise liner has been designed by Hans Op de Beeck.

Dorothy Kerper Monnelly. These artists communicate the beauty and vitality of water, focusing on nature and engaging the viewer in affirming the intrinsic aesthetic, emotional and essential life value of water.

Fragile Waters calls attention to water, a critical resource, in all its beauty and power, inviting the viewer to engage with interpretations of three dynamic and dedicated photographers. From Ansel Adam’s first magical trip to Yosemite at 14, Ernest H. Brooks II’s first scuba dive at 13, and Dorothy Kerper Monnelly’s infatuation with the salt marshes at 18, each of these photographers have lived their conviction, passion and commitment.

TMA - 120 Gasparilla Plaza (Polk Street) Tampa, FL 33602. www.tampamuseum.org

Arp, Calder, and Miro: Modern Masters from the Albright-Knox Art Gallery - thru Jan 19 Featuring a comprehensive an array of fifty-two works across varied media by Jean (Hans) Arp (French, born Germany, 1886–1966), Joan Miró (Spanish, 1893– 1983), and Alexander Calder (American, 1898–1976), this exhibition will highlight the work of three modern masters, who pushed color, line, and form beyond conwww.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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ArtLines Miniature Art Exhibit Jan 19 - Feb 9

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t always seems like an invasion… albeit a small one… when the Miniature Art Society of Florida’s Annual Competition opens for exhibit at the Dunedin Fine Art Center as it does Sunday, January 19th – February 9th. Though the works are tiny, the crowds are huge noted George Ann Bissett, Executive Director of DFAC. “There’s obviously something magical about these small works” she added.

Approximately 800 works of art will be shown, in addition to the society’s permanent collection of more than 100 miniatures. Entries from around the world and across the country provide a wonderful diversity of subject matter and framing techniques.

In addition to the nearly 1000 works on display, starting Monday January 20 through the end of the show, artists from England, Canada and many US states including Florida will be on hand to demonstrate and discuss their techniques. Be amazed by the detail of work

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Painting by Akiko Watanabe Tatiana shown at actual size of 3 1/2 X 2 1/2 inches. Voted “Best Cat” in the domestic or wild category.

measuring only inches in size.

Hours are Monday-Saturday: 10am – 5pm, Sunday: 12 noon – 4pm. DFAC and MASF members and students under 18 are free. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin, FL 34698. For more information call 727-298-DFAC, or visit www.dfac.org/

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Earthworks - January 17 - March 2

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he new y e a r begins at Florida Craftsmen with an exhibition featuring seven artists who are masters of their craft. Each artist in the “Earthworks” exhibit has made a personal commitment to their medium and pursues a high standard of excellence, originality and ethics in their work. Susan Livingston, the curator of “Earthworks”, has chosen seven artists who bring very different interpretations of nature which, when combined, create a visually moving experience. Contributing asrtists: Susan Livingston - Susan’s most recent work combines clay with fossils which feels like a natural pairing of organic materials.

Robert Farrell - Robert’s barns and silos are constructed from sterling silver, copper, nickel, and glass enamels.

Terri Kern - Terri’s ceramic work is reflective of her struggle to maintain balance in her creative, personal and community lives and are filled with imagery and hidden meanings.

Henry Gernhardt - Henry is a dedicated artist/potter whose work takes a strong sculptural direction. Working in massive scale, he delights the viewers with his use of subtle color.

Marilyn Endres - The intricate patterns in Marilyn’s wooden vessels are created by gluing thousands of separate segments accurately into position, a layer at a time, then refining the shape on the lathe.

Mitch Lyons - Since 1968 Mitch has been pioneering his image making on clay.

Brenda Tarbel - Brenda looks at the wonders of nature at the microscopic level, creating forms inspired by microphotographs of pollen, butterfly eggs, and seeds.

Florida Craftsmen Inc, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL 33701; 727 821-7391. www.floridacraftsmen.net/

FLORIDA MUSEUM of PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS Gangsters, Pirates, and Cigars: A Photographic History Of Tampa 1879-1955 - thru Feb 23 “Gangsters, Pirates, and Cigars will present a dynamic and detailed history of Tampa from the formation of the city to its growth in the post–war era. First developed as a military outpost, Tampa transformed into a mecca for cigar production and cattle sales to Cuba. With this industrial growth came the formation of Ybor City and decades of labor unrest; ethnic communities formed giving Tampa its Latin and European flair. Tampa was also known for its active and, even, glamorous organized crime unit, led by the infamous Trafficante family. Important institutions, such as the Columbia Restaurant, will also figure prominently in formal

photographs and candid snapshots. Tampa’s fragile ecosystem will be represented through aerial photographs taken in the 1940s by military pilots. This exhibition will retell these stories through images culled nationally and locally, including images from the Associated Press, the Tampa History Center, the public libraries, and the Tampa Tribune. Numerous educational events will be planned with local historians. This exhibition will be followed up with another, focusing on Tampa’s suburbanization and tremendous development with the advent of air conditioning in the mid-1950s.” The FLORIDA MUSEUM of PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS is located at 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa, FL 33602; 813.221.2222; www.fmopa.org

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ArtLines The Carrollwood Cultural Center

A Taste of the Silk and Spice Roads

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Jan 7 - Feb 2

he Carrollwood Cultural Center and Tampa Bay Art Promotions are pleased to present two exhibits portraying Central Asia and India.

41st Annual

The artworks can be viewed from January 7 through February 2, 2014. The Local Featured Artist, Michele Miley, has lived in the Tampa Bay area since 1983. Her eclectic photography exhibit “Altai-Himalaya: Asia through the Eye of an Artist’s Lens” shares her journey through China, Tibet, Mongolia, India and Nepal.

The Corridor Gallery will display three international Mongolian female artists’ oil paintings of their ancient

culture, “The Daughters of Genghis Khaan: Winged Horses and Shamanic Skies”.

Tampa Bay Art Promotions will share a portion of sales to benefit The Mongol Widows with Children Support Fund. 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa. (813) 269-1310. www.carrollwoodcenter.org/

Art Festival Beth-El Feb 1 - 3

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rt Festival Beth-El, Temple Beth-El’s annual fine art exhibition and sale, will take place February 1-3, at 400 Pasadena Avenue South, St. Petersburg. Art Festival Beth-El showcases over 160 national and international award-winning artists. Space has grown from one gallery to six galleries throughout the facility featuring original paintings, wood, sculpture, ceramics, glass, photography and jewelry.

A large Outdoor Sculpture Garden will feature a variety of fun and unusual pieces for gardens, offices or large buildings. The Boutique Gallery will offer fine art and craft at moderate prices.

An elegant preview cocktail reception will be held on Sat, Feb 1, from 7-10:00 p.m. with admission purchased at the door. Art Festival Beth-El is free and open to the public on Sun Feb 2 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. with light lunches and snacks available to purchase. The Avenue of the Shops, a one-day sale of fun art, jewelry and crafts, will be open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Mon, Feb 3. A free, special event will be performed at 11:00 a.m.

A gourmet luncheon will be served on Mon at 12:30 pm with a check necessary to make a reservation. Docents will be available during the weekend and will also offer a tour at 2 p.m. on Monday.

Call the Temple at (727) 347-6136 for more information.

Visit www.templebeth-el.com/ 84

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The St. Petersburg Fine Art Festival debuts at the Museum of Fine Arts

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atch the grounds of the St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Art transform into a unique outdoor gallery showcasing the extraordinary artwork of more than 100 top national and international artists. The St. Petersburg Fine Art Festival showcases the original creations of artisans from 25 states and overseas in such mediums as painting, jewelry, sculpting, photography, woodworking, ceramics, glass, fiber art, mixed-media - and more.

These are among the most collected and awarded artists in America.

See an incredible tapestry of artwork woven by the diverse creations of artisans that are masters of their art forms. Discover a variety of sculptural forms from large articulated outdoor animal sculptures, life-like fiber sculptures of African wildlife and exquisite glass wall hangings. The tapestry of artwork is enhanced with unique digital flower imagery, elegant leather purses and handbags interwoven with unique, amazing ceramic art and stunning wildlife photographs. Also find extraordinary handmade clothing and elegant jewelry. All creations of our amazing and talented artisans, all original and handmade.

Enjoy the rare opportunity to meet and interact with the creators of the artwork. Learn how your artwork purchases were created. Artists are on-site Saturday from 10-5 and Sunday from 11-5. Admission is free.

MFA, 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-896-2667; www.fine-arts.org www.paragonartevents.com/stpete/

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by Lori Verderame

e

Big Mistake on ebay

very one of us has at some point found ourselves with an old bottle in our hands—some older than others. I get questions about how to tell a valuable bottle from a cheap one all the time. I wrote this article based on a cautionary tale that I heard recently.

A woman attended my antiques appraisal event in Houston, TX and she recounted this story about the sale of an old bottle on eBay. She told me and my appraisal show audience about how her friend sold an old bottle on eBay for $1,200. They were thrilled about the sale until the buyer, who turned out to be a bottle dealer and the head of some national bottle collecting society, revealed that he had purchased her bottle with the $1,200 winning bid.

He did not write to thank her.

He wrote to boast. He had the audacity to write to the seller to tell her that she was a stupid woman.

That’s what he wrote--stupid.

Why was she stupid? Because he revealed that she had sold that bottle on eBay for $1,200 and he knew it was actually worth $60,000.

So, this dealer added written insult to the unknowing seller’s $58,800 injury. These are the kind of people that you hope get their due in a manner of the old saying “what goes around comes around.”

Disgusting!

lessons learned

This is perfect example of something I have been saying for many, many years. While I hope this story teaches you something about why some antiques dealers deserve the lousy reputations that they have, it also demonstrates something that is tremendously important about the online auction website eBay and others like it. Online auction sellers don’t always know what they are doing. Or how valuable an item truly is.

Do not use eBay as a credible resource for research86

ing the value of an antique. Right now, on the eBay auction record site, there is an incorrect value for that bottle. It states that the bottle is only worth $1,200 when it is actually worth $60,000. If you are researching eBay sales records and you come across that bottle, you are going to look at the photograph of the bottle and think that you have a bottle like that one and think it is only worth $1,200.

But, it is actually worth more—a lot more--to the tune of $58,800 more.

It is worth $60,000.

This is the major problem with people who do not have experts evaluate their antiques before posting them on eBay or any online website. This is also the problem with the people who are offering to search eBay records for you and sell you an online appraisal for $9.99.

I offer online appraisal services and what they are doing is not an online appraisal. Those people are not evaluating the object; they are just searching posted online sales records that can be horribly wrong.

You would save time by just throwing a $10 down a drain. There is no identification, no evaluation, no credible sales record source. It’s a mess.

The problem is that just like this seller, people are selling objects online and they do not know what they are selling, they do not know the current market or appraised value, and they do not know that there are snakes out there ready to take advantage of your ignorance. Again, do not use eBay or any online auction to determine value. Get a real appraisal—online or traditional--from an expert.

Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and awardwinning TV personality, Dr. Lori hosts antiques appraisal events worldwide. Dr. Lori is the star appraiser on Discovery channel’s hit TV show, Auction Kings. To learn about your antiques, visit www.DrLoriV.com, www.Facebook. com/DoctorLori, or @DrLori on Twitter.

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Looking Good...

Allison Craft’s Natural Jewelry

By Melissa Wolcott Martino

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art of the beauty that is South Walton, FL, is the jewelry that adorns so many of it’s inhabitants — residents and tourists alike, and much of it comes from the Allison Craft Gallery.

A few years back, Allison decided to make her hobby her vocation after receiving rave reviews from friends and family for her jewelry creations. Using lustrous pearls and leather strips, her designs are natural, understated, and beautiful, worn as one piece or layered. Living in South Walton, her designs are influenced by the beauty of the beach and the artsy atmosphere of the area. In amongst the twists of leather you may find a little seashell, a metal sun, or natural stone.

Allison’s creations are recognizable, and have been embraced by locals and national celebrities alike (Rachel Ray, for one.)

Craft’s charming studio is located in the Shops of Grayton Beach, and she also does mail order. For more information, or to order her pieces, visit her website at www.allisoncraftdesigns.com/

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Allison Craft wearing her natural design jewelry

Get a Fresh Start with LUSH Radiant Orchid is the Color of the Year!!

Royal purple and gold-dusted, with a cinnamon stick in the center, LUSH’s gorgeous Phoenix Rising Bath Bomb sinks to the bottom of the tub when you toss it in, and slowly rises up, fizzing out a spicy apple and cinnamon scent.

Apply Drive, a pinkpurple liquid lipstick to get things moving.

With its hydrating base of jojoba oil and rose wax, Drive applies beautifully and ensures lips stay soft and smooth. Apply a little for a subtle pinkpurple look, or build intensity when you apply more generously.

LUSH’s Fresh Cleansers Wintertime may mean that skin is more covered up than usual (depending on where you call home!) but that doesn’t mean you should pay less attention to your body care than in the warmer months. In fact, skin in the winter may not be showing but it is exposed to a variety of issues like dryness, irritation and sensitivity. If you have dry, itchy skin, you’re actually in good company: roughly seven in 10 American women say they have sensitive skin, according to Good House-

keeping Magazine, a rate that seems to be on the rise thanks to increased use of potent, sometimes irritating skincare products. Turning to products that are preservative-free and use natural ingredients is the way to go to help break the cycle of uncomfortable skin.

Several of Lush’s fresh cleansers contain clays and muds, which have been used for centuries as natural cleansers.

Kaolin clay, rhassoul mud and calamine powder are used to absorb excess oil and help cleanse the skin when mixed with water. They gently lift away dirt leaving skin clean and fresh.

February, LUSH’s fresh cleansers will be available in larger sizes so you can use them on the face AND body.

Cleanser Options: Angels on Bare Skin: For heavenly soft and balanced skin.

Aqua Marina: Those who have a tendency to react to citrus or strong herbal oils will find salvation in Aqua Marina’s gentle aloe vera and moisturizing nori seaweed.

Dark Angels: Black sugar and charcoal gently exfoliate and absorb excess oils to leave acne-prone skin with a clean, matte finish.

Herbalism: Best suited for those who have tried everything to clear up their oily and blemish prone skin with an antibacterial blend of rosemary, nettle and chamomile.

Let The Good Times Roll: A luxuriously soft and sweetly-scented cleanser.

For more information, please visit www.LUSHusa.com

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Greek Orthodox Community Readies for 108th Epiphany Celebration

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he annual celebration of the Baptism of Jesus Christ by St. John the Baptist in the River Jordan will be celebrated on Monday, January 6, at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral in Tarpon Springs, Florida. A procession to the Spring Bayou will commence immediately following the church service for the Blessing of the Waters and Cross retrieval.

His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios, primate of the Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America, Metropolitan Alexios of Atlanta, Greek Orthodox Metropolis of Atlanta, will be among the participants in this year’s observance said the Reverend Fr. James Rousakis, Acting Dean of St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral.

Leading up to the feast day, the Blessing of the Fleet will take place Sunday, January 5th noon-1 p.m. meeting at the entrance to the Sponge Exchange. Clergy

will bless the fisherman, their vessels, and the water in which they travel, and wish them safe and prosperous journeys. The service will occur at the Sponge Docks

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cal Divine Liturgy at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral at 10 a.m., located at 36 N. Pinellas Ave. Following the Divine Liturgy and the Great Blessing of the waters, the Hierarchs, clergy, dignitaries and thousands of people will form

an impressive procession to Spring Bayou, lead by the altar boys, school children in traditional costumes, choir members and Greek Folk dance groups from throughout the Tampa Bay area. From a platform overlooking the Spring Bayou, Continued next page

Welcoming Glass of House Wine, Draft Beer or Dessert* HOME OF THE GREEK CHOW MEIN

Enjoy Authentic Greek Cuisine with Generous Portions

802 N. Pinellas Ave. (Alt. 19, 1/2 mile N. of Tarpon Ave.)

Tarpon Springs on the Anclote River which feeds into the Gulf of Mexico. Both commercial fisherman and recreational boaters will participate.

On January 6th, Epiphany observances begin at 8 a.m. with Orthros (Matins) followed by the Hierarchi-

(727) 937-2795 *With purchase of an entree. Must present to server when ordering.

Not valid with any other offer.

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TARPON SPRINGS

con’t

Rita’s Creations

“The Cotton Lady” Located at the

World Famous Sponge Docks 813 Dodecanese Blvd, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

(727) 934-9500 www.ritascreations.com email: ritascreations2@verizon.net

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a short service of the blessing of the Bayou is recited, highlighted by the release of a white dove to fly over the Bayou by a young lady, symbolizing the Holy Spirit. The Archbishop will cast a white cross into the water and some forty-five young men will dive, each seeking the honor of retrieving the cross.

The retriever will kneel with the cross before the Archbishop for a blessing. The divers, Hierarchs and clergy will return to the Cathedral for the final remarks and presentations.

Following the ceremony, an Epiphany Glendi (festival) with food, drink, live music and dancing will be held at the St Nicholas Community Center. There will also be shows of traditional Greek dancing performed by the Levendia, the nationally award winning Greek dance troupe, as well, as other local dance groups. At the Glendi, His Eminence Archbishop Demetrios will honor the Epiphany divers and the cross victor. www.epiphanycity.org

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Gaming Scene Las Vegas BRITNEY SPEARS AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD www.caesars.com “Britney: Piece of Me” is not only for die-hard fans, but for anyone who enjoys pop theater at its finest.

Presented in a fully-reconstructed theater at Planet Hollywood Resort & Casino, the show features one of the largest indoor immersive stage productions in the world, creating a cutting-edge pop concert experience.

While the stage production is dazzling, the intimatelysized theater will allow audiences to see Britney as they’ve never seen her before. “Britney: Piece of Me” is a marriage of high-end fashion and state-of-the-art technology.

‘RON WHITE’S COMEDY SALUTE TO THE TROOPS’ at THE MIRAGE - Feb 19 www.mirage.com/entertainment/ron-white.aspx The Mirage Hotel & Casino will host the sixth annual “Ron White’s Comedy Salute to the Troops” Wednesday, Feb. 19. The one-night show will benef the Armed Forces Foundation. White’s always-hilarious friends, including Gabriel Iglesias, Kathleen Madigan, Josh Blue and Roy Wood Jr., will join him on stage for an evening

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of laughter, good times and giving back. The show will be recorded in front of a live audience and will air on Country Music Television (CMT) at a later date.

702-791-7111.

The Venetian and The Palazzo Host the Master Chefs of France - March 5 - 9 www.venetian.com/ The 59th General Assembly of French Master Chefs will bring their worldwide meetings to the United States, March 5-9. The event will also celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the American and Canadian delegations and the U.S. Chapter of “l’Academie Culinaire De France”.

The five-day event will be held at The Venetian and The Palazzo Las Vegas. The Venetian and The Palazzo Executive Chef Olivier Dubreuil is also a Master Chef of France.

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PANDA! AT THE PALAZZO www.venetian.com PANDA!, an unprecedented theatrical spectacular, is at The Palazzo. The first ever Chinese-produced show to take up a Las Vegas residency, PANDA! dazzles the senses by combining high-flying acrobatics, kung fu mastery, music, and dance, transporting audiences to a realm of Far Eastern folklore.

O’Shea’s Casino Returns to the Las Vegas Strip www.thequadlv.com/ O’Sheas Casino reopened its doors recently at the new location inside The Quad Resort & Casino. After a 23-year reign on the Las Vegas Strip, the original O’Sheas closed to make room for The LINQ, Caesars Entertainment’s outdoor retail, dining and entertainment district. The reimagined space features elements of the original Strip-side casino where guests will once again be able to enjoy blackjack, beer pong and live entertainment.

CRISS ANGEL MAGICjam – World’s Greatest Magic!ans at Luxor - Feb & March www.luxor.com/ Criss Angel, headliner of CRISS ANGEL BeLIEve,

at Luxor will debut a new, limited-engagement show, CRISS ANGEL MAGICjam, to occupy the CRISS ANGEL BeLIEve theater for the months of Feb. and March.

MAGICjam, will present an anthology of the greatest acts and will spotlight select cast members from Angel’s TV show, also titled “Criss Angel BeLIEve,” including top female magician Krystyn Lambert, comedianillusionist Nathan Burton and Banachek, the mentalist.

The lineup will also include grand master manipulators Jason Byrne and Tony Clarke, the hilarious Russ Merlin, and close-up artist Armando Vera.

Taylor Hicks at Paris Las Vegas Jan 27 - Feb 28 www. parislasvegas.com “American Idol” winner Taylor Hicks is kicking off the New Year with additional dates of his show at Napoleon’s at Paris Las Vegas. Taylor Hicks is the first “American Idol” winner to secure a long-term residency in Las Vegas and is quickly becoming one of the most popular acts in the city.

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Gaming Scene con't Biloxi

Win a New Mercedes-Benz E350, a Luxury Vacation and Thousands in FREEPLAY with the License to Thrill Giveaway - Jan 1 - Feb 22 Win the keys to a brand new Mercedes-Benz E350 or a luxury vacation to London, England and thousands in FREEPLAY during License to Thrill at Beau Rivage.

Earn entries and be one of up to 800 total winners.

Million Dollar Heater - Jan 3-15

What’s happening at the Beau Rivage Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Beau Rivage is a beautiful resort destination — very convenient for Tampa Bay area folks looking for either an exciting time, or a relaxing time, or both — the Beau has it all. With a partnership with Vision Airlines, the resort has an exclusive package that includes a round trip non-stop jet flight, ground transfers, and two nights in a luxurious guestroom — starting at only $199 per person (double occupancy). The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. PetersburgClearwater Airport.

The Million Dollar Heater is a poker players’ paradise with $1,000,000 in guaranteed prize pools and 62 tables. The main event features a $500,000 guaranteed prize pool with an entry fee of $2,500 + $100.

12TH Annual MasquOHRade George Ohr Gala - Jan 25 Beau Rivage presents the 12th annual MasquOHRade George Ohr Gala Sat, Jan 25 benefitting the Ohr-O’Keefe Museum of Art. Revel in a night of whimsy and mystery, intrigue and disguise. Celebrate a gala fundraiser, honoring the Mad Potter of Biloxi, George Ohr, and his adventures masquOHRading. Cocktails and silent auction followed by dinner and a fashion show plus live music and dancing.

UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT Jan 10 - RON WHITE • Jan 17 - HUEY LEWIS & THE NEWS • Jan 31 - VINCE GILL • Feb 8 - MERLE HAGGARD • Feb 22 - TONY BENNETT • Feb 28 & March 1 - RODNEY CARRINGTON

Golfers will definitely want to experience Fallen Oak, Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevation changes and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and wetlands. GOLF Magazine rated it one of the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play.”

A visit to the Beau’s spa and salon will show Epicurean treatments unique to the Gulf Coast, and a perfect place for a Girlfriend Getaway with their special “Pamper Parties.”

The dining opportunities at the Beau are wonderfully varied - from the simple Snacks Deli to the exceptional BR Prime (the Beau’s signature steak and seafood restaurant), and every thing in between. Guests have eleven restaurants to choose from, as well as several bars.

Reservations for air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 877-462-2328. www.beaurivage.com 96

HUEY LEWIS & THE NEWS

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VINCE GILL

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Discover the Beauty

B

ig Cat Rescue is the largest accredited sanctuary in the world dedicated entirely to abused and abandoned big cats. It is home to over 100 lions, tigers, bobcats, cougars and other species most of whom have been abandoned, abused, orphaned, saved from being turned into fur coats, or retired from performing acts.

The sanctuary began rescuing exotic cats in 1992.

BCR has 14 species of cats, many of whom are threatened, endangered or extinct now in the wild. Their dual mission is to provide the best home they can for the cats in their care and educate the public about the plight of these majestic animals, both in captivity and in the wild, to end abuse and avoid extinction.

BCR has built enclosures in a natural habitat with foliage and shelter on 55 acres in the Citrus Park area of north Tampa. They provide the best nutritional and medical care possible, and have conditioning and enrichment programs to provide the cats physical and psychological well being. The sanctuary is supported entirely by donation.

BCR, 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. 813-920-4130; www.BigCatRescue.org

S

unken Gardens is a botanical paradise in the midst of a bustling 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, lush with exotic plants from around the world. Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful demonstration gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers.

If you enjoy Yoga, or want to try Hoop Dancing, go to Sunken Gardens and exercise in a botanical, tropical paradise.

Yoga Village at Sunken Gardens: Mon - 10:30am Gentle Beginner Yoga with Vandana; Wed - 10:30am Kundalini Yoga with Ram Gian; Thurs - 10:30am Open Level Vinyasa Flow with Vandana; Sun - 12:30pm Kundalini Yoga with Updesh.

Hoop Dancing: Tues 10am - 11am and Wed 9am - 10am; Kids Hoop Dancing: Tues 4pm - 4:45pm; Hot Hula: Thurs 10am - 11am.

Sunken Gardens provides garden tours, horticultural programs, special events, field trips, weddings, private and corporate rentals. Call 727-551-3102. Gardens may be closed due to inclement weather.

1825 4th Street N, St. Petersburg, 727-551-3102; 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 walk through a butterfly encounter.

• Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $8 Adults; $5 seniors 55 & up; $4 ages 2 - 11 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100 98

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Compiled by Papande Newman

FLORIDA AUTHORS WRITE….

RING GO ROUND

SKYWAY: The True Story

By Patda Jim

www.ringgoround.com Set in Europe, mainly Amsterdam, Italy and Switzerland, RingGoRound tells a double tale. Two compassionate women, living a hundred years apart, are connected by an antique ring Their lives reverberate and echo each other. The fascinating men attracted to them weave intrigue, glamour, mystery, cruelty and love into the suspenseful web. Marlene of long ago tells her secrets through the mystical voice of the ring to relay her story to modern-day Marieke. The book’s theme is ruled by true affection and the necessity to give as well as receive undying love.

Patda Jim has spent her life traveling and living abroad, and now makes her home in Sarasota, FL.

THE MAKING OF ST. PETERSBURG

By Will Michaels

By Bill DeYoung

www.upf.com Skyway tells the entire story of this horrific event, from the circumstances that led up to it through the years-long legal proceedings that followed. Through personal interviews and extensive research, Bill DeYoung pieces together the harrowing moments of the collision, including the firstperson accounts of witnesses and survivors.

Among those whose lives were changed forever was Wesley MacIntire, the motorist whose truck ricocheted off the hull of the Summit Venture and sank. Although he was the lone survivor, MacIntire was emotionally scarred and remained haunted by the tragedy for the rest of his life.

Bill DeYoung is a native of St. Petersburg, FL. Nationally recognized for his music journalism, he was a writer and editor at Florida newspapers for three decades.

THE JEWS OF TAMPA

www.historypress.net The Making of St. Petersburg captures the character of this bay city through the telling of significant events, from the Spanish clash with indigenous peoples to the creation of the downtown waterfront parks and grand hotels.

Take a journey with local historian Will Michaels as he chronicles St. Petersburg’s storied history, including the world’s first airline, the birth of Pinellas County and the good old American pastime, Major League Baseball. The people and events in this work paint a beautiful portrait of a coastal Florida city and reveal St. Petersburg’s sense of place.

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of Tampa Bay’s Signature Bridge and the Man Who Brought It Down

By Dr. Rob Norman and Marcia Jo Zerivitz

www.arcadiapublishing.com Spanish explorers arrived in Tampa Bay in the 16th century.

Jews were first allowed to live in Florida in 1763 and less than 100 years later, Tampa became a city. The arrival of the railroad and the cigar industry in the 1890s attracted immigrants. Many were Jews, who helped propel growth, especially in Ybor City, where they owned more than 80 businesses. Over the decades, Jews participated in civic and Jewish organizations, the military, politics, and in developing Tampa as a sports center. Today, with about 23,000 Jews in Tampa, there are fifth-generation residents who represent the continuity of a people who contribute vibrancy to every area of the community.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

THE DEATH RELIC

By Chris Kuzneski www.chriskuzneski.com

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he New World, 1545: Vanquished by the Spanish Empire, little remained of the Aztec and Mayan civilizations. From the ashes of their cities, a unified legend emerged: their conquerors possessed a mysterious object, an artifact so powerful— so deadly—that it came to be known as “the Death Relic.”

Yucatan Peninsula, present day: When Maria Pelati’s research team disappears in Mexico, she calls Jonathon Payne and David Jones, who embark on a perilous mission to find the missing archaeologists. They soon realize that Maria’s research may hold the key to solving one of the darkest mysteries of the New World. But their quest to learn the truth about the Death Relic may end up costing them their lives.

Chris Kuzneski’s thrillers have been published in more than twenty languages and are sold in more than forty countries. Kuzneski now lives on the Gulf Coast of Florida.

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BRUISED

By Sarah Skilton www.sarahskilton.com Imogen has always believed that her black belt in Tae Kwon Do made her stronger than everyone else-more responsible, more capable.

But when she witnesses a holdup in a diner, she freezes. The gunman is shot and killed by the police. And it’s all her fault.

A GIRL LIKE YOU

By Maria Geraci

FADE TO BLACK

www.mariageraci.com

By Jeffrey Wilson

www.jeffreywilsonfiction.com

What if you found out you were the ugly friend?

Emma Frazier is smart, hardworking, and loves her job as a journalist for a Florida lifestyle magazine. Emma knows she’s no great beauty, but she’s pretty certain she has a shot with her handsome new boss, Ben Gallagher—until Emma overhears a mutual acquaintance refer to her as the “ugly friend.”

In an effort to reclaim her battered self-esteem, Emma decides to impress Ben at work by promising an exclusive interview with NASCAR legend, Trip Monroe.

Jack is a young man caught between two terrifying worlds. In one, he is Marine Sergeant Casey Stillmam, locked in combat in the streets of Fallujah, Iraq. He is lying next to his dead and dying friends, bleeding in the street – until he wakes up at home, in bed with his wife.

PLUNDER: A Faye Longchamp Mystery

By Mary Anna Evans

www.maryannaevans.com Time is not on Faye Longchamp’s side. She and her husband Joe are working near the mouth of the Mississippi, researching archaeological sites soon to be swamped by oil. The Deepwater Horizon disaster has morphed her run-of-the-mill contract job into a task that might swamp her fledgling company. It isn’t helping that an injured babysitter has left Faye to work with a toddler underfoot.

THE CONDOR SONG

By Darryl Nyznyk

www.crossdovepublishing.com Described as “The Verdict”, starring Paul Newman, meets John Grisham’s The Pelican Brief, the book follows Sean Donovan, a new partner in a major law firm who lost everything when he took a costly ethical stand. Wifeless, jobless, and betrayed by his closest friend, Sean spends 13 years trying to find his way back.

Barely eking out a living on small cases, Sean’s redemption comes with the death of renowned environmentalist, Buck Anderson. When the dead man’s niece requests Sean’s help in resolving Buck’s last case with the Sierra Club, Sean happily accepts, but learns too late the opposition is his former law firm and the partner who betrayed him. He may have just signed his own death warrant.

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MUSIC, ART & FILM WATERMILL REVISITED

By Christina Conrad; e-book;

www.amazon.com The never before revealed story behind Jerome Robbins controversial ballet, “Watermill.” The price Jerome Robbins paid in his personal life for his art was extremely high. Weaving in the story of her long relationship with Robbins, Conrad connects “Watermill” with the underlying stresses of his romantic relationships.

The ballet followed an extremely shattering personal time. As he said in his work notebooks, it was autobiographical and he was “healing.”

IF YOU LIKE THE SOPRANOS: Here Are Over 150 Movies, TV Shows, and Other Oddities That You Will Love

By Leonard Pierce; www.limelighteditions.com The best-loved crime family in America is just part of a grand tradition of mob movies, gangster flicks, great television dramas, and a sensibility that is part Sicily and part New Jersey. If You Love the Sopranos... is the first book that starts with Tony and the gang in their humble homes in the Garden State and explores the astonishing amount of great films, TV shows, and other pop-culture wonders that any fan of the Sopranos will love.

AN ASKEW VIEW 2: The Films of Kevin Smith

By John Kenneth Muir; www.applausebooks.com In the year 2002, An Askew View: The Films of Kevin Smith was the first book to gaze at the cinema of one of New Jersey’s favorite sons, the independent and controversial auteur of Clerks, Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma and Jay and Silent Bob Strike Back. Now, author John Kenneth Muir returns to the View Askew universe to consider Kevin Smith’s second decade as a film director, social gadfly, and beloved media “talker.”

THE MERCILESS BOOK OF METAL LISTS

By Howie Abrams and Sacha Jenkins; www.abramsbooks.com The Merciless Book of Metal Lists is an irreverent and illustrated compendium of the most random, funny, and challenging information about Heavy Metal from the last 40 years. You want to know which Metal albums “jumped the shark”? Curious to know what non-Metal bands Metalheads love, which album covers feature goats, embarrassing Metal fashion faux pas, and the unfortunate original names Metal bands started with? This is the book.

TATTOO A BANANA: and Other Ways to Turn Anything and Everything into Art

By Phil Hansen; www.philinthecircle.com Commercial artist and YouTube sensation Hansen creates art out of everyday objects. With illustrations and instructions, this engaging, inspiring, and entertaining handbook/manifesto takes readers inside the mind of a groundbreaking artistNand encourages all to create.

WEDDINGS: From Snapshots to Great Shots

By Suzy Clement; www.peachpit.com Take control of your digital photography and learn the skills and techniques required to record once-in-a-lifetime events–weddings. This beautifully illustrated guide by pro photographer Suzy Clement will help you conquer the fundamentals and take authentic and memorable shots that capture the essence of the day. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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a b c de f g NON-FICTION FOUR STARS OF VALOR

By Phil Nordyke; www.zenithpress.com Hailing from the big cities and small towns of America, young men came together after the attack on Pearl Harbor to serve their country and the greater good. Those assigned to the 505th Parachute Infantry Regiment (PIR) arguably became the best PIR to descend upon Europe in World War II, making a record four combat jumps (Sicily, Salerno, Normandy, and Holland). Drawing on interviews with surviving veterans and oral history recordings as well as official archives and unpublished written accounts from the 505th and their supporting units, author Phil Nordyke brings the history of the regiment to life.

hi j k lm n THE BITE FIGHT:

PHYSICAL CHESS: My Life in Catch-As-CatchCan Wrestling

Tyson, Holyfield, and the Night That Changed Boxing Forever

o pq r s tu Behind the scenes with a pro wrestling and MMA legend

By George Willis

www.triumphbooks.com

The infamous boxing match between Mike Tyson and Evander Holyfield on June 28, 1997, was like none other in the sport’s history, and this insightful account of the anticipation, the gruesome fight itself, and the ongoing aftermath of that one night reveals just how much of an impact it really made. The rivals met for a rematch that would never be finished, as Tyson earned a disqualification and infamy that followed in the third round by biting off a portion of Holyfield’s ear.

By Billy Robinson

www.ecwpress.com/fightingwords In this fascinating autobiography, Billy Robinson recounts his upbringing in post - WWII England amid a family of champion fighters, his worldwide travels as a wrestler, his time as a pro wrestling TV star, and his career as a coach to some of the biggest names in mixed martial arts. For the first time, Billy Robinson sets the record straight on: who won the infamous street fight between him and the grandfather of superstar Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson.

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ONE TANK TRIPS

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52 Trips in Each Book • Total Trips = 156 Get ALL THREE for ONLY $25.90 (including tax and shipping!)

Order online at www.foxonetanktrips.com www.foxonetanktrips.com or call 1-888-One-Tank

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CUISINE

500 BEST QUINOA RECIPES: 100% Gluten-Free

150 BEST DONUT RECIPES: Fried or Baked

www.robertrose.ca

DINING OUT: A No-Nonsense Guide to America’s Favorite Chain Restaurants

by George Geary www.robertrose.ca

By Josh Dinar

Topped with a chocolate glaze or simply rolled in cinnamon, fresh homemade donuts are impossible to resist. Whatever your preference -- the fluffy yeast style or the denser cake variety -delicious, donut-shop confections are fun and surprisingly easy to make at home. The freshness and quality of ingredients that comes from scratch donut making simply can’t be beat!

A guide to the menu items at over 35 popular American chain restaurants, organizing food by type, ethnic origin, health options and including reviews, tips and interesting facts

www.diningout.com

MASTER YOUR SLEEP: Proven Methods Simplified

By Tracey I. Marks, MD

www.bascomhillbooks.com

by Camilla V. Saulsbury By now you’ve probably heard and seen all the positive press about quinoa -- it’s now firmly established in the superfoods hall of fame. It’s also an excellent source of magnesium, folate, phosphorus, iron and fiber so it’s an ideal ingredient for vegans, vegetarians and flexitarians. And because it’s also gluten-free, it’s a valuable ingredient for anyone affected by gluten intolerance.

SELF HELP 50 RULES FOR SONS

Sleep disorders plague a frightening percentage of the population, and many people who have problems sleeping simply learn to live with their affliction. But at what cost? Sleep disorders can affect all aspects of life, from school and work to personal relationships to mental health. Because of the myriad types of sleep disorders and the equally numerous treatment methods, there is no quick fix for all sufferers.

by Tim Hoch

www.50rulesforsons.com Written for his son upon graduation from high school, Tim Hoch’s 50 Rules for Sons is an inspiring gift book that shares a father’s wisdom with sons who are leaving the nest. Lessons like: Be open to and unashamed of the possibility that you might be wrong. Take stock of where you’ve been, but don’t dwell on it. If you show up to class on time and sit in one of the first three rows, you will succeed.

THE UNFETTERED MIND: Writings From a Zen Master to a Master Swordsman

By Takuan Soho

www.shambhala.com So succinct are the author’s insights that these writings have outlasted the dissolution of the samurai class to come down to the present and be read for guidance and inspiration by the captains of business and industry, as well as those devoted to the practice of the martial arts in their modern form.

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Bucs Bits

by Barbara McGovern

Tampa Bay Is In Love....

With Lovie Smith!

W

elcome back Lovie. We are so glad to have you home where you belong. What a way to start a new year. Your return happened on Little Christmas (Jan.6) so that has to mean that the good times are going to start rolling again in Tampa Bay. I’m not sure why Chicago let you get away, but their loss is our gain.

Greg Schiano and Mark Dominik were nice people and we want to wish them well.

Years ago, when Lovie and Tony Dungy left Tampa Bay that was their time to move on. Now Lovie is back where he belongs and who knows?

Maybe Tony will be back sometime in the near future. They were the ones who put things in place for the Bucs to win the Super Bowl the following year. Is it time to do that again?

The Bucs have a group of players with skill and talent, now they have a coach that can put all the pieces together.

With the right motivation from the right people, the Bucs will rise again. It is great that so many of the ex-players from the glory years are here in the area, and it was good to see several of them at the news conference for Lovie. Mike Alstott and Shelton Quarles were there to offer good wishes, among others. The ex-players are so loyal to the team, I’m sure they will be around to encourage the team when they need it.

Today’s players will benefit from seeing the history that went before them and learn from it.

Thanks to the Glazers for making a quick but well researched decision on the way to move on. It will be fun

to see the changes that will happen. It’s been awhile since games were fun around here and fans filled the stadium. Let’s hope happy days are here again.

Congrats to Vincent Jackson who was named 2013 Buccaneers Man of the Year. As the Bucs nominee for this years NFL Walter Payton Man of the Year award, a $1,000 donation was made to the Jackson in Action 83 foundation. Vincent started the foundation to show his commitment to military families. As an Army Brat, he knows the hardships that our military families face.

So, good luck Lovie. It time for the Bucs to be respected, relevant, and winners. The past years haven’t been good; in fact they were downright awful. Some things were preventable, some thing weren’t. Let’s not dwell in the bad, let’s look to the future. We have good players and a new outlook. We have new coaches who will motivate the players and fans alike. Let’s support the team and GO BUCS.

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