Accent On Tampa Bay #199, May 2014

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Accent On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 27, Issue 199 May, 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 Photographer Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photo courtesy of: Bruce Springsteen Mgmt PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

AM PUBLICATIONS St. Petersburg, FL (727) 577-5500

e-mail - AccentMagazine@aol.com Accent On Tampa Bay™ Digital Magazine is produced monthly by AM Media Group.

Material submitted becomes the property of AM Media Group. All material herein, including ads and artwork is copyrighted and may not be reproduced without written consent from AM Medfia Group. © Accent On Tampa Bay™

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LOCAL FOCUS Girls in need can get help for Prom - May 3

Belle of the Ball provides homecoming and prom dresses to in-need, low-income high school girls in Pinellas and Hillsborough counties with these Saturday distribution dates, hours and place for the 2014 Prom season: March 15, April 5, 19 and May 3. Hours are 10 am to 2 pm. No appointment necessary at the Seminole Mall 11201 Park Blvd. Seminole Fla. These dates and time will be the only time to receive a dress. Belle of the Ball Project mission statement is “no girl should be denied the opportunity to attend her high school dance because of financial difficulties.” Belle of the Ball has given away approximately 3,500 quality dresses and countless shoes, purses, and accessories. Dresses are donated by individuals and businesses. There are 2 ,000+ quality dresses in inventory. Girls are referred to Belle of the Ball by school guidance counselors, teachers, churches, other non-profit organizations. The recipient must be present and meet certain criteria to qualify for a donated dress. 727-386-4502. www.belleoftheballproject.com

MUSEUMS ON US - May 3-4

Bank of America’s Museums on Us offers free weekend access to Bank of America and Merrill Lynch credit and debit cardholders in Tampa and St. Petersburg on the first full weekend of each month in 2014.

Participating museums are: the Florida Holocaust Museum, St. Petersburg; Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg; Tampa Museum of Art. Bank of America believes the arts have a unique ability to connect people and communities, and help local economies thrive. Simply present your Bank of America or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card along with a photo ID to gain free general admission to any participating institution, the first full weekend (Saturday and Sunday) of each month. Cardholders only; guests are not eligible for free admission. Program excludes fundraising events, special exhibitions and ticketed shows. Not to be combined with other offers.

For the full list of markets and museums: museums.bankofamerica.com/

America’s Largest Lupus Walk - May 3-4

The Lupus Foundation of America’s Walk to End Lupus Now event in Tampa, which is part of America’s largest lupus walk program, will take place on May 4 at the Lowry Park Zoo. The event will bring together local Tampa residents to raise money for lupus research and education programs, increase awareness of lupus and rally public support for those who suffer from its brutal impact. Every step you take and every dollar you raise supports the Lupus Foundation of America and its efforts to solve the mystery of lupus, one of the world’s cruelest, most unpredictable and devastating diseases. Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. Call 877-910-9779; www.WalkToEndLupus.org 4

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All-Star Lineup to Benefit All Children’s Hospital - May 9-10 Taste of Pinellas brings an updated combination of local food, celebrity headliners, music and family fun to an all-new venue this spring. Taste of Pinellas 2014 will take place on Friday and Saturday, May 9-10, in downtown St. Petersburg’s Albert Whitted Park with proceeds benefitting All Children’s Hospital. Local bands T.C. Carr and the Bolts of Blue Band, Dan Orlando Band and The Black Honkeys will join the music lineup for Taste of Pinellas. In addition to some of Tampa Bay’s top regional bands, the 2014 musical headliners will feature: Friday, May 9 – Four-time Grammy winner and legendary “Heart Breaker” Pat Benatar & Neil Giraldo, three-time Grammy winner Bruce Hornsby and The Noisemakers, plus “Arena Rock” icons Loverboy!

Saturday, May 10 – The incomparable Blues Brothers starring Dan Aykroyd and Jim Belushi, plus “The World’s Greatest Party Band” with more than 100 million records sold, KC & the Sunshine Band!

The 2014 festival will also feature a selection of the area’s favorite restaurants serving tastes of their most sought-after dishes and signature creations. Fireworks, a free “Family Fun Zone” at the Mahaffey Plaza and other family-friendly activities will also be included at this year’s event.

Fireworks are scheduled both nights at 10 p.m.

For more information www.TasteofPinellas.com

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The Walking Dead Escape – Sat, May 10

Calling all Walking Dead Fans! The Apocalypse is coming to Tampa. The official zombie obstacle course of The Walking Dead… climb, crawl, hide, and slide your way through the evac zone. Clear quarantine testing or join the undead. There’s four tiers of participation - Spectator, which gives you full access to all spectator areas throughout the course, the after-party, and the merch area; Survivor, where you navigate the course and avoid the undead for 35-50 minutes and then join the afterparty; Walker, where you — the undead horde stalk the course for 2.5 hours as an official “Walking Dead Escape Walker.” As a Walker, you will receive a pro make up session and Walker training. Access to the after-party where people will want to take pictures of and with you. (Walkers need to arrive 2 hours before their selected course time.); VIP includes option to run course twice – first as a Survivor and then a Walker, VIP event t-shirt, VIP-only lounge, and exclusive behind the scenes access. The Sun Dome, 4202 E. Fowler Ave, SUN 130, Tampa Tampa, FL. 6pm. www.sundomearena.com/

CropMania! - Sat, May 10

The Scrapbooking Event for CropMANIACS, benefiting Friends of Joshua House Foundation. all guests receive reserved seating, food & beverages all day, make n’ takes throughout the day, entry into door prize drawings & table prize drawings and a goody bag. The day also includes access to great shopping opportunities, “recycling sale” of scrapbooking & craft items, silent & ticket auction items and fun contests & prize opportunities. Florida State Fairgrounds – Special Events Center, 4800 Highway 301 North, Tampa, FL 33610. Saturday, May 10, 10am – 10pm. www.tinyurl.com/2014CropMania

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National Train Day at Tampa Union Station – Sat, May 10

National Train Day at Tampa Union Station returns on Saturday, May 10. The Tampa celebration will feature Amtrak and privately-owned railroad equipment on display, live music, food trucks, model railroad displays, exhibits from community organizations like the Tampa Bay History Center, the Tampa-Hillsborough County Public Library, the Florida Coalition of Rail Passengers, Operation Lifesaver and many more! This family-friendly event is in its 7th year in Tampa and is completely free. Hours: 10 AM-5 PM, Tampa Union Station, 601 N. Nebraska Avenue, Tampa FL 33602; www.tampaunionstation.com

THE SOUNDS OF SWING BIG BAND TO HONOR MOTHERS – Sat, May 10

The Sounds of Swing big band will play a special concert for mothers on Saturday, May 10 at 8 pm at the Carrollwood Cultural Center. Ticketholders will receive a free dance lessons by Swing Time of Tampa Bay at 6:30pm.

The Sounds of Swing, the official big band of the Carrollwood Cultural Center, was formed in 2010 by Jim Burge, host of Jazz with Jim and a founding member of the Bay Area Saxophone Quartet. They band performs at the Center and other events throughout the community. Mothers will receive a complimentary ticket. Tickets are limited, so please get them early. (813) 269-1310 or (813) 922-8167. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa. www.

CarrollwoodCenter.org

Fly Balls and Flights of Fancy – Sun, May 11

A Century of Spring Training in Pinellas County and Commercial Aviation throughout the World” Presenter Jim Schnur of Pinellas County Historical Society.

Two important events along the Pinellas peninsula reshaped local sports history and travel throughout the world. On Jan. 1, 1914, the St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line began service as what many historians have regarded as the first regularly scheduled airline service using winged aircraft. During the spring of 1914, the St. Louis Browns (now operating as the Baltimore Orioles) brought the first regular series of spring training games to St. Petersburg. Schnur discusses these historic milestones and places them within the broader context of Florida history. 2 p.m.

Free. Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N., Largo. (727) 582-2123. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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May 15 - 18

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t’s one colossal party on ice, with all your favorite Disney friends. Join Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse as they celebrate a Very Merry Unbirthday Party with Alice and the Mad Hatter; Mardi Gras with Princess Tiana and Prince Naveen; a Royal Valentine’s Day Ball with the Disney Princesses; a Hawaiian luau with Lilo & Stitch; a winter wonderland with Woody, Jessie and Buzz Lightyear; a Halloween haunt with the Disney Villains and more in a magical medley of holidays, celebrations and festivals from around the globe.

Rinkside Dining Seats include a view of the show from one of the best seats in the house with floor level rinkside seating and a food and beverage package served in the Lexus VIP Club upon your arrival that is available through the first intermission.

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Runners Experience Florida Cowboy Country at Westgate River Ranch - Sat, May 17

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unners can take in the natural beauty of Florida’s old cowboy country at the first-ever “Run the Ranch 5K” May 17 at Westgate River Ranch. The course will take runners through a portion of the ranch’s 1,700 lush acres alongside grazing buffalo and long-horn Watusi cattle.

Participants will celebrate like a cowboy during the post-race party at Adventure Park, where activities like the mechanical bull and the petting farm’s barnyard animals will take center stage.

For guests interested in a weekend getaway, the resort will offer a “Run the Ranch 5K” special, including a stay in Florida cowboy-themed accommodations, pre-registration for one adult, two tickets to the Saturday night championship rodeo, and an airboat or swamp buggy ride for two starting at $249 per night.

Awards will be given to the top three race finishers. The overall first-place winner will receive a three-day, two-night weekend stay at any Westgate resort across the United States. The overall second-place winner will receive a three-day, two-night stay at Westgate River Ranch, including two tickets to the award-winning Rodeo. The overall third-place winner will receive their choice of either a $50 gift certificate to the Smokehouse Grill at Westgate River Ranch or to Westgate’s Serenity Spa in Orlando.

Registration for “Run the Ranch 5K” is $25 through May 15. Registrations will also be accepted on-site May 16 and 17 for $35 (cash and checks only).

Check-in begins at the River Ranch Saloon on May 17 at 7:30 a.m. The first 250 runners to register will receive a commemorative “Run the Ranch 5K” shirt.

Register online at www.runtheranch5k.com

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Fundraiser for Heart Gallery – Thurs, May 15

The Tampa Bay Rays have stepped up to the plate and opened the gates to Tropicana Field for this unique gala, “Celebrate Me Home”. Guests are invited to wear their favorite baseball attire and experience an evening under the dome with a delicious gourmet inspired dinner generously donated by Centerplate. The evening will include entertainment, a tempting auction selection and a program that will celebrate the homecomings made possible by many committed donors and partners in our community. The Heart Gallery features the photos and stories of local foster children ready for forever families. Their mission is to provide an emotionally safe way to promote local adoption. www.heartgallerykids.org/

2014 U.S. Parachute Association National Skydiving Championships - May 21 - 23

America’s fast-paced and spectator-friendly aerial action sport returns to Florida this spring for the 2014 United States Parachute Association (USPA) National Skydiving Championships of Canopy Piloting May 21-23‑‑ at Skydive City Zephyrhills, outside of Tampa. More than 60 of the nation’s most daring and advanced aerial athletes will deploy their parachutes and swoop through narrow slalom-like courses for hundreds of yards across the ground and over water at speeds reaching 90 mph. These are skydiving’s ultimate pros, battling for slots on the prestigious U.S. Parachute Team, which will compete against the world’s best swooperswhen Skydive City hosts the World Championships this coming November. The canopy piloting championships include competitions in speed, in which pilots try to fly as quickly as possible through a course; distance, which involves flying as far as possible across the ground; and accuracy, in which canopy pilots must stop on an exact spot for maximum points. Skydive City Zephyrhills will host the national championships for the second year in a row. This exhilarating showcase of parachuting proficiency will take place across the center’s large swoop pond. Skydive City will then host the World Championships in November, bringing the event to the U.S. for the first time ever. Watch reigning world champion Curt Bartholomew and reigning national champion Nicholas Batsch battle it out; see JessicaEdgeington, one of the world’s top female competitors, give the guys a run for their money; and watch members of the elite Performance Designs Factory Team fight for slots on the U.S. Team. The championships are free and open to the public. For more iformation, visit www.uspa.org/

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13th Annual John LeVique Pirate Days - May 9 - 11 John LeVique Pirate Days is an annual event that takes place in May each year in celebration of LeVique’s discovery of the John’s Pass waterway following the Great Gale of 1848. A variety of events will be hosted throughout the weekend including hurricane awareness, a Pirate’s Ball, a sea battle and boat parade, a walking parade, a family treasure hunt, costume contests, a pub crawl and more. The event features various pirate themed merchandise, food and beverage vendors, along with an abundance of authentic performers. May 9/3:00 pm – 11:00 pm, May 10/10:00 am – 8:00 pm, May 11/10:00 am – 6:00 pm.

12902 Village Blvd., John’s Pass Village, Madeira Beach, FL 33708

AVP Pro Beach Volleyball Tour at Spa Beach Park - May 29 - June 1

The AVP (Association of Volleyball Professionals) Tour returns to St. Petersburg for the second straight year, as the best professional beach volleyball players in the world compete for $150,000 in prize money in the tour’s season-opening tournament. Approximately 2,000 tons of sand will be dumped in Spa Beach Park to create four competition courts, and a temporary stadium will be built for the tournament. Fans attending the AVP St. Petersburg Open will be treated to four days of world-class beach volleyball competition featuring Olympic champions and worldrenowned athletes competing in an unmatched beach-party atmosphere filled with great food, music and interactive activities. The tournament’s main draw will feature a field of 16 twoplayer men’s teams and 16 two-player women’s teams. Local hopefuls can earn entry into the competition through an open qualifying tournament, which will be held Thursday, May 29.

Attending will be: Kerri Walsh Jennings (three-time Olympic gold medalist) and partner April Ross (2012 Olympic silver medalist; Phil Dalhausser (2008 Olympic gold medalist) and partner Sean Rosenthal (two-time Olympian) Jake Gibb (two-time Olympian) and partner Casey Patterson - the duo won four of the AVP’s seven tournaments last season; Todd Rogers (2008 Olympic gold medalist) and partner Ryan Doherty (a 7-foot-1 former minor-league pitcher); Summer Ross and partner Emily Day, the AVP’s hottest young stars . Many are projecting them as 2016 Olympians; Up-and-coming AVP stars like Lane Carico, Tri Bourne and Theo Brunner; Local stars Raquel Ferreira and Brooke Sweat. Ferreira lives in St. Pete and runs a volleyball academy. Sweat is originally from Ft. Myers. www.teamusa.org/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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“Adopt-a-Palooza” Pet Fair Showcases Over 400 Furry Friends - May 18

The Humane Society of Pinellas is set to host Adopt-a-Palooza, the largest pet adoption event in Pinellas County. The event will be held Sunday, May 18 from 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. at the Long Center, located at 1501 N. Belcher Road in Clearwater, FL 33765. This adoption event will feature more than 400 adoptable pets, 25 animal rescue organizations and over 2,500 guests.

This first “Adopt-a-Palooza” event provides a free venue for fellow animal adoption organizations, potential adopters, pets and their owners to have the opportunity to shop among various vendors for unique products and services, as well as enjoy activities designed for people and animals, such as: People and pet-related vendors; Ask-A-Trainer sessions; Demonstrations and concessions; Affordable micro chipping.

For those unable to attend the pet fair, the Humane Society enlists the help of volunteers and also accepts donations for help in providing its lifesaving services – 100% of contributions are retained by the organization. www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org/events/adopt-a-palooza/

Blast Friday CLEARWATER - May 30

Blast Friday was established in 2009 as downtown Clearwater’s free, family-friendly street festival. Supported by the City of Clearwater, the Cleveland Street District and the Downtown Development Board and produced by Ruth Eckerd Hall On The Road, Blast Friday hosts 10 events per year bringing more than 40,000 people to downtown Clearwater. VIP tickets (when available) include seating in front of the stage with one serving of beer and pizza. Featured Artists: April 25 - MARK FARNER with STORMBRINGER, May 30 - EDGAR WINTER BAND. www.rutheckerdhall.com/

Edgar Winter

Da Vinci Machines Exhibition at Bradenton Municipal Auditorium - thru July 7

The Da Vinci Machines Exhibition, which opened in mid-November at the Bradenton Municipal Auditorium has extended its stay through July 7 due to an overwhelming response from locals and visitors to the area. Originally scheduled to return to its home at the Museum of Leonardo Da Vinci in Florence, Italy in April, the exhibition has attracted more than 15,000 guests, all seeking the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to view more than 60 hand-crafted inventions built from Da Vinci’s 500-yearold designs and experience one of just three such exhibitions in the world.

The exhibit is the life work of three generations of Florentine artisans.

They have painstakingly brought to life the creations and concepts devised by the scientist, inventor and artist. The exhibition models are presented in four major themes: Military machines, Flying machines, Nautical & Hydraulic machines as well as devices and inventions illustrating the Principles of Mechanics. The uniquely interactive machines are a popular aspect of each exhibition as visitors can touch and handle these models to gain a first-hand appreciation of how they work.

Explanatory notes and illustrative panels with Leonardo’s drawings from his codices accompany each model. For additional information, visit www.bradentongulfislands.com/DaVinci

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TAMPA THEATRE BACKSTAGE TOURS - May 10 & 13

Recently, CNN released a list of “15 of the Most Spectacular Theaters in the World” in honor of William Shakespeare’s birthday, and Tampa Theatre was proud to be among them. If you haven’t already visited to find out why, the month of May has plenty new movies, special screenings and public tours perfect for getting to know the worldwide winner that’s right in your backyard.

BALCONY TO BACKSTAGE TOURS: Where does the organ go when the movie starts? Why are there stuffed peacocks perched around the proscenium? (And, for that matter, what is a “proscenium” anyway?) Learn the Theatre’s secrets, stories, art and architecture with a “balcony to backstage” tour of the historic movie palace, including a demonstration of the Mighty Wurlitzer Theatre Organ. The 90-minute tours will kick off in the lobby at 11:30 a.m.

Saturday, May 10 and Tuesday, May 13. For more information visit www.tampatheatre.org/

HUMANE SOCIETY OF PINELLAS NEWS PET FOOD DELIVERY PROGRAM FOR LOW-INCOME & HOMEBOUND SENIORS MOVES TO HUMANE SOCIETY OF PINELLAS Senior Pet Connection supports low-income and homebound seniors by making monthly deliveries of pet food and supplies at no cost. Gina Shields founded Senior Pet Connection in 2012 and the program quickly grew to serve about 100 pets in 60 homes across Pinellas. “Gina has developed a fantastic program that serves so many needy clients,” says Sarah Brown, HSP Executive Director. “Senior Pet Connection fits perfectly with our mission of keeping pets and people together. We’re honored that she entrusted the program to us.”

NEW ECO-FRIENDLY GROOMING SALON -

New HSP salon features state of the art equipment and environmentally-friendly products containing plant-derived cleaning agents, minerals, and essential oils that keep your dog looking good naturally. A tankless water heater helps us reduce energy consumption, and grey water is used for landscaping. A variety of grooming packages are available. All profits support the lifesaving work of the Humane Society of Pinellas.

(727) 797-7722 or www.HumaneSocietyofPinellas.org/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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FREEDOM FEST DOWNTOWN ODSMAR May 23 - 25

Memorial Day is a time we set aside to remember those who have sacrificed so much through the years for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans today. For the six consecutive year the Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce is doing its part by hosting Freedom Fest right on State Street in Oldsmar. The three day event, May 23, 24 and 25 will feature live music from start to finish, plenty of food and arts and craft vendors and fun activities for the kids. Hours will be 5 to 10 pm on Friday May 23, 12 to 10 pm on Saturday May 24 and concluding Sunday May 25 between the hours of 12 and 8pm. State Street will be configured to allow the flow of the great American bikes to pass through. On Saturday American heroes will be recognized – police, firemen, first responders, active duty and retired military bikers and the grand category military tribute bikes. This is always a very moving show and awards ceremony. A special Military Memorial salute will be conducted to start the event on Sunday morning. This will feature a version of the Pledge of Allegiance like you have never heard and will really bring to home what this great country is all about. $2.00 per person- 12 and under are free. www.utbchamber.com/

Tampa Bay Bridal Show - Sun, June 1

Something old, something new, so many details you just don’t know what to do? Make plans to attend the Tampa Bay Bridal Show on Sunday, June 1. Meet the area’s top Bridal professionals at the Tampa Bay Bridal Show…more than 100 area business will be on hand. The Tampa Bay Bridal Show will feature the latest in fashions, flowers, photography, caterers and so much more.

Learn from area bridal experts... great tips, trade secrets and advice. Register to win door prizes and grand giveaways. Bring your calendar and get ready to lock in your dates…from DJ’s to reception halls, to that specialty baker, the list goes on and on. Sunday, June 1, Noon – 4pm, Tampa Bay Times Forum, 401 Channelside Drive. 727-893-8523

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PINELLAS COUNTY EVENTS 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 present-day 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.

Hop on over to Animal Services. April adoption specials at Pinellas County Animal Services: adoption fee for large dogs and cats will be $25 and $75 for puppies and small breeds during normal shelter adoption hours.

The fee includes medical checkup, spaying/neutering, vaccinations, internal and external parasite control and microchipping. The required Pinellas County license is also provided.

MAY EVENTS May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 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.

Brooker Book Club: 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, with archeology, biography, politics and history stor26

ylines. Advance registration is required as seating is limited. 9:30 to 10:30 a.m.

Free; Brooker Creek Preserve.

May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31 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.

sorbed in the abundance of history, natural beauty and the complexity of the ecology. 10 to 11 a.m. The tour is free but a $5 Fort De Soto parking fee will be collected. Fort De Soto Park.

May 8 Ten Easy Steps to a Florida Friendly Landscape: Learn how to implement simple design ideas to create a low cost and low care landscape that is diverse and pleasing. Doris Heitzmann will discuss insights to innovative plant selection, use of versatile landscaping materials, ways to invite wildlife into the garden and how to make the best use of rainwater. 2 to 3:30 p.m. Free; registration required. Palm Harbor Library.

May 8, 22 Wee-Time at Weedon: This program is designed to introduce preschool children to the wonders of the natural and cultural world.

Every second and fourth 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.

Weedon Island Preserve,

May 3 Explore the Ecosystems Guided Hike: 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. Free; registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

May 3, 4, 11, 17, 18, 31 One-hour guided nature walks down one of six different trails are offered each Sat and Sun, except holidays. Visitors on this hike will be abwww.AccentOnTampaBay.com

May 9, 23 Vegetable, Herb and Tropical Fruit Garden Tour: Explore the vegetable garden and compost demonstration areas and learn how to grow food in home gardens.

Marvel at the eye-catching array of culinary, medicinal and aromatic herbs, trees and flowers in the enclosed herb garden. Recommended for adults; Pinellas County Extension.

May 9 Great Weedon Bird Quest: Learn the identifying marks and behaviors of the year-round feathered residents and seasonal visitors while assisting in compiling an annual checklist of the preserve’s birds. This hike is designed to take advantage of all levels of birding experience. Binoculars and bird guides are available. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

Botany Hike: Join a Brooker Creek naturalist to explore the fascinating plants found on the preserve while identifying wildflowers, ferns, epiphytes, trees and more. The ecology of various plant communities will also be examined. Best suited for adults. Come prepared with a camera and questions.

9 to 11 a.m. Free; registration required.

Brooker Creek Preserve.

May 10 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.

Entomology 101: What is that bug? Participants can learn about this fascinating and diverse group of organisms. Basic identification and ecology will be explored in this introduction to the study of insects. Recommended for adults. 10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Going Coastal – Intro to Fishing: This program is designed to get the youngest members, ages 7 to 12, and their parents excited about fishing by teaching them some of the basics about fish, their habitats and ethical fishing practices. Fishing poles, tackle, and bait will be provided during the program, but participants are welcome to bring their own fishing poles. 1 to 4 p.m.

Free; registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

May 12 to 18 Pinellas County Animal Services will celebrate National Dog Bite Prevention Week May 13 to 19.

National Dog Bite Prevention Week takes place during May each year and focuses on educating people about preventing dog bites. An additional effort will be made to educate citizens on how to prevent and reduce the number of bites in the county. Pinellas County Animal Services.

May 22 Introduction to Plant Identification: Join a local Extension specialist and examine the basics of plant identification, from using simple keys to identifying critical characteristics that will help any would-be botanist in the field. Gulfport Public Library.

May 17 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. 8 to 10 a.m. Free; registration required. 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; registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Dragonfly Discover Walk: Join local dragonfly expert Paul Trunk as we explore some of the habitats at BCP looking for dragonflies. Brooker Creek Preserve is an excellent area that is home to approximately 20+ species of odonates. Participants will learn about the natural history of dragonflies and their importance to a healthy ecosystem. Binoculars and a camera are encouraged to bring. 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Brooker Creek Preserve.

May 24 Bringing Up Baby: What does it take to care for an orphaned dolphin or otter pup? The Clearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) staff will teach about younger rescued animals at CMA and the extra special care needed for these animal babies. Participants will learn how scientists work together to create solutions to complex problems. View footage of otter pups first learning to swim. Recommended for all ages. 10 to 12:00 p.m. Free; registration required. Weedon Island Preserve.

May 24, 31 Our Wildest Place Guided Hike: Learn why the preserve has been called “Our Wildest Place” during this 0.75-mile walk. Closed-toe shoes a must, water and a hat are recommended. Ages 6 and up. Children younger than 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Free. 9 to 10:30 a.m. Brooker Creek Environmental Ed Center.

May 31 Wildflower Garden Club: JGet gardening hands dirty in the preserve’s www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

wildflower garden. Bring garden gloves and hat. Free; advance registration required. 9 to 11 a.m. Brooker Creek Preserve Environmental Education Center.

Photographing Nature: Nature photographers, Karl and Kathleen Nichter, will teach participants the secrets of capturing some of nature’s most amazing events. This program is best suited for adults.10:30 a.m. to noon. Free; registration required. Brooker Creek Preserve.

Archaeology Works - Hunting Tech: How did early Floridians put dinner on the table living in prehistoric Florida? Archaeologists look at how artifacts like stone tools change through time to learn about advances in ancient hunting technology. Participants will learn about these changes as well as the atlatl, a prehistoric hunting tool used in Florida and participants will learn how to make one. 10 a.m. to noon. Free; registration required.

Weedon Island Preserve.

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; www.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 27

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 takehome 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.

SEMINOLE HEIGHTS SUNDAY MORNING MARKET - 2nd Sunday of the month - Oct - May 100-130 vendors cater to the greater Seminole Heights neighborhood.

Time: 9am-2pm. The front lawn of Hillsborough High School, 5000 N. Central Ave. Tampa, FL 33603 www.tampabaymarkets.com/

HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

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ocated on the waterfront at Johns Pass, this quaint turn-of-the-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! GOLF-X-CUBE Golf Training Tool www.golf-x-cube.com Golf-X-Cube teaches you to play better golf in as quickly as 15 minutes. GOLF-X-CUBE is a UV-resistant polyamide reinforced cube that sits in front of you, between you and the ball, as you practice your swing to show you the proper golf stance, guiding you to hit the ball more consistently and straighter. It teaches you a reliable, repetitive swing to improve your handicap and make golf more fun. Golf-X-Cube includes an instructional DVD and user manual for training guidance and features a deep green colored top and neon-yellow sides that work as color guides to show you when you are swinging with the correct position.

INOVA X1 AA Powered Flashlight From Niteize www.niteize.com The INOVA X1 is a serious flashlight that offers exceptional engineering and illumination for its compact 4-inch size. Powered by a single AA alkaline battery, its patented optical system, precision machined aluminum reflector with thermal interface provides superior light projection and visibility. Updated performance and new dual-mode functionality provides long hours of either High or Low power light output. Featuring a uniform focused spot with flood beam pattern that has an effective range of 266 feet, its beam can be also be seen in the dark for up to 1.5 miles. Perfect for keeping close at hand in a pocket, glove box, purse, brief case, backpack, and everywhere you go.

POWEROCKS Smart Power 5200mAh www.powerocksusa.com/

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Powerocks’ Smart Power 5200mAh colorful, portable and light-weight power banks charge smart phones, tablets, and other devices on the go. Smart Power includes an intelligent iOS & Android App that precisely analyzes a device’s battery life, so you never have to worry about running out of batteries while on the go. With its 5200mAh capacity, Smart Power doubles the battery life of Android, Apple, HTC, and Blackberry smart phones, tablets and other mobile devices.

Smart Power provides the exact battery status on your Apple and Android device’s screen while charging, so there’s no more guessing. The power bank’s remaining battery capacity, status, voltage, charging time, remaining time, power evaluation, use frequency, percentage of remaining capacity, temperature, average current, and health index is displayed. Smart Power lets you check your battery’s status everywhere, anytime.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Runalyzer Blue heart rate monitor For Iphone 5 www.runalyzer.com/ This Runalyzer Blue Heart Rate Monitor is a must to measure and improve your sports activity. It uses new Smart Bluetooth technology embedded in Smartphones, MP3 Players and the latest tablets. Among available sports activities: walking, running, cycling, mountain biking, roller-skating as well as alpine and Nordic skiing.

An application like Runtastic gives you your heart rate and ‘locates’ you on the ski slopes. Available features include heart rate, heart rate zones but also distance, altitude, speed, calories burned, voice sports coaching announcements can even alternate with your favorite music. The Runalyzer blue runs for up to 18 months with a single battery on a daily use basis, thanks to Bluetooth Smart. Lightweight and ultra-thin, flexible and comfortable, you will forget this chest strap during your sports activity.

URGENT Rx CRITICAL CARE www.urgentrx.com/ Today’s travelers try to be as prepared as possible for whatever their adventures may bring. Everyone knows that aspirin will immediately treat a heart attack, but what if you find yourself in an area with no drinking water readily available? Be ready for anything with UrgentRx, the alternative to your typical OTC medicine. UrgentRx’s Critical Care packs a doctorrecommended 325mg of aspirin that acts faster than the traditional pill, and is part of a set that can be used to relieve some of the following traveler’s ailments: Upset stomach from new cuisine, Heartburn, Allergic reactions, and Headache. UrgentRx is a credit card sized packet containing fast-acting medication in the form of a powder. UrgentRx uses the same active ingredients as the leading brands, fits right in your wallet and no water is needed-just rip open the package and pour the dissolving powder directly into your mouth.

COMPOSTABLE TOOTHBRUSH www.worldcentric.org Every year in the United States some 450 million plastic toothbrushes make their way to landfills nationally. The majority of those toothbrushes will never biodegrade and will remain for decades.

To reduce those numbers, World Centric has created compostable toothbrushes and travel cases that are made from a plant based resin called Ingeo.

The toothbrush and case are certified compostable by the Biodegradable Products Institute. They are environmentally friendly, having a smaller carbon footprint because Ingeo takes less energy to produce than petroleum based plastic resins. The World Centric toothbrush is designed to fully compost within 3 to 6 six months when sent to a commercial composting facility. The 7-inch World Centric toothbrush and case are available at natural grocery stores and online.

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STRAZ PERFORMANCES STOMP - through May 3. STOMP is explosive, provocative, sophisticated, sexy, unique and appeals to audiences of all ages. The eight-member troupe uses everything but conventional percussion instruments – matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps – to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. The return of the percussive hit also brings some new surprises, with some sections of the show now updated and restructured and the addition of two new full-scale routines, utilizing props like tractor tire inner tubes and paint cans.

All New People - May 7 - Jun 1. It’s the dead of winter, and the summer vacation getaway of Long Beach Island, New Jersey is desolate. Charlie is 35, heartbroken, and just wants some time away from the rest of the world. His solitude is interrupted by a motley parade of misfits who show up and change his plans. A hired beauty, the townie fireman, and an eccentric British real-estate agent desperately trying to stay in the country suddenly find themselves tangled together in a beach house where the mood is anything but sunny. jobsitetheater.org.

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Next Generat ion Ballet’s Sleeping Beauty - May 9 - 10. This classic tale of romantic love hides a stirring tension between the forces of good and evil at the heart of human experience. Sleeping Beauty evokes the magic and splendor of great ballet, performed with passion by Next Generation Ballet.

The D*Word – A Musical - through May 18. The D* Word is a 90-minute musical that follows the woes and wows of four single and single-again women who meet after a night of speed dating. Join Erica, DeeDee, Kate and Jen as they learn the art of happily EVEN after featuring songs from “I Will Survive” and “Hot Stuff” to “Before He Cheats” and “Turn Me On!” 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

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

STEEL MAGNOLIAS - May 23 - June 15

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TEEL MAGNOLIAS is set in the present day at Truvy’s Beauty Shop in Chinquapin, Louisiana. Shelby’s wedding day nears, so the beauty shop ladies of Chinquapin Parrish, Louisiana delicate as magnolias but tough as steel – have a lot to talk about. From the new assistant who announces, “I promise that my personal tragedy will not interfere with my ability to do good hair”, to the town matron who declares, “I’m not crazy…I’ve just been in a very bad mood 40 years!”…Steel Magnolias is alternately hilarious and touching, sure to be the feel-good hit of the season!

FEELING GOOD - May 9 - 10

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nthony Murphy will be performing his very first solo Cabaret at American Stage Theatre Company. Anthony is an alum of the ACT (Arts Conservatory for Teens) and has sung up and down the East coast including New York, Pittsburgh, and Atlanta, as well as performing at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival.

Anthony is ready to take you on a journey through good times, and great songs.

The Vagina Monologues - Sun, May 25

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bie Award-winner Eve Ensler’s whirlwind tour of a forbidden zone: The Vagina Monologues introduces a wildly divergent gathering of female voices, including a six-year-old girl, a septuagenarian New Yorker, a vagina workshop participant, a woman who witnesses the birth of her granddaughter, and a feminist happy to have found a man who “liked to look at it.”

American Stage - 163 3rd Street North , St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727.823.7529. www.americanstage.org

Talking With... thru May 4

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inner! 1982 American Theatre Critics Association Award, Best Regional Play.

Talking With... is a collection of extraordinary monologues written by the mysteriously pseudonymous Jane Martin. These eleven monologues make up an “evening of idiosyncratic characters who amuse, move and frighten, always speaking from the depths of their souls” and range from “a baton twirler who has found God through twirling, a fundamentalist snake handler, and ex-rodeo rider crowded out of the life she has cherished by men in 3 piece suits who want her to dress up ‘like Mini Damn Mouse in a tutu, an actress willing to go to any length to get a job” to an old woman whose dream is to live in McDonald’s.

21905 US 19 N., Clearwater, FL 33765; 727 437-2363. www.wcplayers.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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TAMPA BAY TIMES FORUM

May 20 - 21

Michael Jackson The Immortal World Tour, one of the top 10 grossing music tours of all time, will perform in Tampa on Tuesday, May 20 and Wednesday, May 21 at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. This electrifying production has thrilled audiences across North America, Europe, Asia, Australia, New Zealand, and the Middle East.

Created by Cirque du Soleil and directed by Jamie King, THE IMMORTAL World Tour is presented in a rock concert format that combines the excitement and innovation of Michael Jackson’s music and choreography with Cirque du Soleil’s unparalleled creativity. The underpinnings of THE IMMORTAL World Tour are Michael Jackson’s powerful, inspirational music and lyrics—the driving force behind the show—brought to life with extraordinary power and breathless intensity. The band includes some of the same artists who previously worked side by side with Michael. The show captures the essence, soul and inspiration of the King of Pop. www.cirquedusoleil.com/MichaelJackson

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THE SUGARBEAN SISTERS - June 1229

PERFORMANCES A FEW GOOD MEN - May 1-18 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

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

Joshua Seth is Beyond Belief May 1-18 Joshua Seth’s acclaimed one man show “Beyond Belief: An Intimate Evening of Psychological Illusion” is a highly interactive, genuinely amazing, flat out funny performance that harkens back to the golden age of vaudeville. Combining mind reading, clean comedy, and some good old fashioned showmanship, Joshua is able to create an atmosphere of laughter and mystery.

Winner of the Magic Olympics at Hollywood’s Magic Castle and Nominated for both the Best Male Entertainer and Best Live Variety Show awards by Campus Activities Magazine. Joshua has performed his award winning mystery entertainment at over 2,000 events in over 30 countries and on 4 of his own International TV Specials around the world. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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GREASE May 2 - 11

Get out your leather jackets, pull on your bobby socks and take a trip to a simpler time. Here is Rydell High’s senior class of 1959: duck-tailed, hot-rodding “Burger Palace Boys” and their gum-snapping, hipshaking “Pink Ladies” in bobby socks and pedal pushers, evoking the look and sound of the 1950s in this rollicking musical.

Head “greaser” Danny Zuko and new (good) girl Sandy Dumbrowski try to relive the high romance of their Summer Nights as the rest of the gang sings and dances its way through such songs as “Greased Lightnin’,” “We Go Together,” “There Are Worse Things I Could Do,” and “You’re the One That I Want” recalling the music of Buddy Holly, Little Richard and Elvis Presley that became the soundtrack of a generation.

An 8-year run on Broadway and two subsequent revivals place Grease among the world’s most popular

musicals.

Get ready to hand-jive the night away with the show that’ll make you want to stand up and shout, “A-wopbop-a-loo-bop A-wop-bam-boom!” Be there or be square!

Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo FL. www.eightoclocktheatre.com

THE MIKADO - thru May 18

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his classic masterpiece of silliness and satire will take you to a politically incorrect, fictional version of feudal Japan, which may or may not look anything like Japan, for an evening of tomfoolery and visual decadence.

When Nanki-Poo, the son of the Mikado (the emperor of Japan) visits the town of Titipu in disguise to profess his love for the beautiful Yum-Yum, deadly comic intrigues ensue. Ultimately, this side-splitting satire on imperialism and bureaucracy ends in a series of sublimely ridiculous executions and weddings. With such beloved G & S classics as “A Wand’ring Minstrel,” “Three Little Maids,” “The Sun Whose Rays,” and “Tit-Willow” this lavish production will delight audiences of all ages. freeFall Theatre, 6099 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33710, 727-498-5205. www.freefalltheatre.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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AIN’T FOOD WONDERFUL! May 15 & 17 Ain’t Food Wonderful!, a musical revue on the subject of “food” is scheduled to play The Studio @620 on Thursday May 15 and Saturday May 17, 2014 at 7:00pm.

Having just finished a sold-out run of three weeks at the Venue Theatre, this revue is a musical spoof of everything having to do with food, including such songs as: “Who Doesn’t Like Chinese?”, “Desserts,” “Hooter Guys,” “Snacks,” “Cravings,” “I Want To Be a Bag Boy At Publix” and 14 more.

Featuring a cast of four, the musical revue is the work of Gil Perlroth, whose recent work AIN’T RETIREMENT GRAND! played at several theaters in the Tampa Bay area as well as throughout Florida and is now published and being performed across the country.

The Studio@620 is located at 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701, 727-895-6620. www.studio620.org

GIRLS NIGHT OUT COMEDY SHOW - Fri, May 30

The annual Girls Night Out Comedy Show features an all-girl line-up with three hilarious women: headliner

AN AMERICAN TRIBUTE - Sat, May 24 The Carrollwood Cultural Center Community Chorus and Broadway Bound will join together to salute the troops as well as first responders in a concert as dandy as the feather in Yankee Doodle’s cap. The Community Chorus and Broadway Bound are under the direction of Mary Jo Hahn.

Traci Kanaan “the princess of parodies,” feature comedienne Catherine Maloney and emcee Mary Tischbein.

Some material may not be appropriate for young audiences. The self proclaimed love child of Liza Minelli and Klinger, Traci Kanaan grew up in Berea, Ohio, a quiet middle class community on Cleveland’s west side. Her Italian mother loved opera, dance and theater. Her Lebanese father loved stock car racing, flea markets and dirty jokes. Kanaan combined these influences to make a comedy yard sale…with music.

For more information, call (813) 2w69-1310, or visit the Center, located at 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa. www.CarrollwoodCenter.org 38

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www.sidesplitterscomedy.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Early Bird Dinner Theatre Cookin’ With Gus - May 8 - July 13

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ussie Richardson is a famous food columnist and cookbook author. Her agent comes to tell her she’s been offered her own daily network television show.

She wants to do it, but her husband Walter is dead set against it and Gussie discovers she has stage fright and can’t open her mouth in front of a camera. Everybody tries to help her get over it ... Walter through hypnotism, Bernie her agent by threats; and even wacky Gypsy Carmen from next door casts spells.

Just when she thinks she’s cured, the taping turns into a comic nightmare concluding in an all out food fight that almost ends the show and her marriage.

“A non-stop laugh riot from beginning to end!”— Menachem Young in Citiscape Magazine 13355 49th St N,, Clearwater, FL 33762; www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com

TONE BELL - May 29 - June 1 Tone Bell is best known for starring in the NBC multi-camera comedy “Whitney” as RJ and currently the host of the new MTV show Jerks With Cameras.

Born and raised in Atlanta, the stand-up comedian began his career in Dallas, where he was voted one of the Funniest Comics in Texas. Bell’s real-life brand of comedy has seen him succeed on both the comedy festival circuit as well as previously on NBC as the winner of the Stand Up For Diversity program.

Tone recently was a guest on the Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson and was also featured on the Spike TV special Eddie Murphy: One Night Only and E!’s “Love You Mean It”. He continues to tour around the country performing at colleges and clubs. Tone recently starred in a single-camera comedy pilot for Fox and can be seen on Comedy Central’s “Key and Peele”. He has also recently been featured on Chelsea Lately!

SideSplitters is located at 12938 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa. www.sidesplitterscomedy.com 40

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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. This comedy explores the latest topics in marriage, friendships and squandered riches.

SP City Theatre, 4025 31st St So, St. Petersburg FL 33712; 727866-1973. www.spcitytheatre.org

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a Bench in the Sun May 2 - 18 A Bench in the Sun is by Ron Clark. When a once famous actress moves into the retirement home, two long-time friends compete for her attention. Think the Odd Couple + Sunshine Boys + Grumpy Old Men. A Bench in the Sun stars Michael DuMouchel, Frank Kronyak, and Midge Mamatas, and is directed by Rob Sakoff.

Very wise, very moving, and most of all, very funny! - Mel Brooks. A sunny comedy, it charms throughout - Stamford Advocate Friday and Saturday performances are at 8 pm and Sunday at 2:30 pm. The Alzheimer’s Association is the designated benefit organization for this production.

Venue Theatre, 9125 U.S. 19 North, Pinellas Park, FL. 727-822-6194 www.venuewebsite.wix.com/venuetheatre

Best Laid Plans thru May 15 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

NEW STAGE THEATRE AND CONSERVATORY

IT’S A CABARET - May 1 - 25 Join local and regional favorites as they showcase their every talent in a series of original cabarets! It’s a different show every weekend so don’t miss them... all!!

New Stage Theatre and conservatory. 11650 131st Street N Largo, FL 33774. 813-8172585. http://newstagelargo.org/

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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S T R E C N O C T HO Lady Antebellum - Sat, May 17

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

The alchemy which forged this Grammy award winning trio extends beyond its signature vocal blend and heartfelt songwriting gifts. It’s easy to applaud their amazing achievements, but equally significant is the underlying importance of the group’s shared heartbeat.

Lady Antebellum formed in 2006. Hillary and Charles decided to try writing together after a chance meeting at a Nashville music spot. Charles and his friend and co-writer Dave Haywood joined the late night songwriting sessions and the new trio soon discovered the emotional effect that was created when Charles and Hillary’s vocals blended. With Dave’s harmony sounds and instrumental prowess added to that mix the three young musicians realized they might not just be writing songs for other people, but perhaps would get to perform them, too. A Music Row “buzz” began to spread as the newly-formed trio started making appearances on local stages.

By April 2007, Capitol Nashville had signed Lady Antebellum to a record deal and the trio began to ascend toward the constellation of country music stars with powerful hits such as “Love Don’t Live Here,” and “I Run To You.” The group’s second album, Need You Now took the band to an even larger audience. To date the album has sold over five million copies worldwide, spawning three multi-week No. 1 hits and scored five Grammy Awards.Their third album, Own the Night, was released in September 2011. The latest album, Golden, was released in May, 2013.

For additional information, visit: www.LiveNation.com

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HARD ROCK SEMINOLE REO Speedwagon Sun, May 25 Having entertained fans for more than four decades, REO Speedwagon will perform in Hard Rock Cafe at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. The band has produced numerous hits over the years including “Ridin’ The Storm Out,” “Keep On Loving You,” and “Take it on the Run.”

www.seminolehardrocktampa.com

MIDFLORIDA Credit Union Amphitheatre

ZAK BROWN BAND - May 29 - 30

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ac Brown Band has toured throughout the United States, including a slot on the 2009 and 2010 Bonnaroo Music Festival. They have also recorded five studio albums, and charted ten Number One singles on the Billboard country charts: “Chicken Fried”, “Toes”, “Highway 20 Ride”, “Free”, “As She’s Walking Away”, “Colder Weather”, “Knee Deep”, “Keep Me In Mind”, “Goodbye in Her Eyes”, and “Sweet Annie”, in addition to the singles “Whatever It Is”, “No Hurry”, and “Jump Right In”, which peaked at number 2, and “The Wind”, which peaked at number 11. The band will perform at the Mid-Florida Credit Union on May 29 - 30 For additional information, visit: www.LiveNation.com

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Classics from Beethoven, Mozart and Brahms will be featured in April. Also a special concert which pays tribute to music from popular video games.

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ay 9: The Music of the Eagles – Rock Series With five number one singles, six Grammys and six number one albums, revisit the soaring sounds of The Eagles. In a tribute to their amazing vocal harmonies, veteran rock vocalists Terry Brock, Glenn DeLaune and John Hines, along with their band, join the orchestra to take flight with such Eagles hits as Heartache Tonight, Take It Easy, Desperado, Tequila Sunrise, Witchy Woman,One of These Nights, Hotel California and more. Guest Conductor is Larry Baird.

May 11: Pops in the Park Picnic under the stars on Mother’s Day with your Florida Orchestra, offering a fun mix of familiar symphonic and pop favorites.

Be sure to bring plenty of canned goods for Tampa Bay Harvest’s annual food drive! Collection points will be available throughout the park. Guest Conductor is Jacomo Bairos. *Admission is free.

May 16, 17 and 18: Tchaikovsky’s Pathetique – Tampa Bay Times Masterworks Series Hailed as “a superior musician” by The New York Times, CubanAmerican guitarist Manuel Barrueco performs Roberto Sierra’sConcierto Barroco with its lively mix of baroque and tropical musical elements...all in a night with Stravinsky’s Jeu de Cartes (A Game of Cards) and Tchaikovsky’s Symphony No. 6, Pathétique. Guest Conductor is Cristian Macelaru. There will be a Pre-concert Conversation one hour prior to curtain.

May 22: Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5 – Coffee Concert Series English guest conductor Michael Francis will lead the orchestra in a program featuring Beethoven’s Symphony No. 5, along with Steven Stucky’s Music for the Funeral of Queen Mary (after Purcell) and Andrzej Panufnik’s Sinfonia Sacra. In addition to complimentary coffee and doughnuts, enjoy the Pre-Concert Conversation one hour before curtain time, as well as lively commentary about the music during the concerts. Guest Conductor is Michael Francis.

May 23, 24 and 25: A Stars & Stripes Hit Parade – Raymond James Pops Series It’s a Memorial Day weekend of overtures, marches and Americana favorites, including an Armed Forces Salute, Washington Post March, Colonel Bogey March, Yankee Doodle, Copland’s Hoedown and music by John Williams and more. Guest Conductor is Bob Bernhardt.

May 30 and 31: Ravel’s Daphnis Et Chloe – Tampa Bay Times Masterworks Series The evening opens with Haydn’s buoyant Symphony No. 60, “Il Distrato.” This is followed by Toru Takemitsu’s dreamy soundscape Toward the Sea II, which is an apt prelude to Ravel’s dazzlingly lush symphonic palette of orchestral colors in the full ballet score of Daphnis et Chloé, which features The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. Guest Conductor is Joshua Weilerstein. Beginning one hour before the performance, during our pre-concert conversation, there will be a special performance by The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay under the direction of Dr. James K. Bass.

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

Please visit TFO website for show times and venues at www.floridaorchestra.org

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MUSUEM OF FINE ARTS MUSIC IN THE MARLY Summer Series The Marly Music Series returns with another summer series. AdThe Jazz Trio mission to the entire Museum is included in the ticket price. All ticketholders are invited to a reception following the first two concerts. Complimentary hors d’oeuvres will be served and a beer-wine cash bar will be available. The concerts are at 2 p.m. on these Sundays: June 1 - Claire Huangci, piano. Ms. Huangci began her international career at nine and has been earning accolades ever since. She is regarded as one of the premiere Chopin interpreters of her generation.

June 15 - Ellen dePasquale, violin. A local favorite, Ms. dePasquale is a past concertmaster of the Florida Orchestra and during her tenure, was also active in chamber music groups and performed at the Museum.

Pianist Angelin Chang, a Grammy Award-winner, will be the accompanist.

June 29 - Emily Albrink, soprano. The Washington Post wrote that her “pert, pearl-toned Susanna may have been the liveliest, most affectionately detailed performance of the evening.”

July 20 - Scott Kluksdahl, cello. One of the area’s most gifted musicians, Scott Kluksdahl made his debut with the San Francisco Symphony and has been heard since as an orchestral soloist, recitalist, and chamber musician in music centers around the globe.

August 3 - Gary Schocker, flute, Jason Vieaux, guitar. These two Museum favorites demonstrate extraordinary rapport. Both have pursued exciting solo careers and bring the very best of their talent and their eclectic musical interests to their joint concerts.

August 24 - Eric Himy, piano. The New York Times has described Mr. Himy’s playing as “flawlessly poised, elegant and brilliant,” and Revue Musicale de Suisse Romande compared him to the great Vladimir Horowitz.

November 16 - Jazz Arts Trio: Frederick Moyer, piano, Peter Fraenkel, drums, and Peter Tillotson, bass.

The Jazz Arts Trio is keeping the music of Oscar Peterson, Bill Evans, Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and other jazz giants vibrantly alive. All music-lovers will enjoy this unique concert.

For more information, please call 727.896.2667 or visit the website. www.wfine-arts.org/

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he writers behind some of America’s hottest contemporary hits are to perform Wed - Sun, May 7-11, during the 19th annual Key West Songwriter’s Festival. More than 180 performing songwriters are to take the stage for 50-plus shows during the lively five-day event. Among those scheduled to showcase their talents are chart-topping recording artist Sara Evans; Jeff Hanna, of the iconic Nitty Gritty Dirt Band; The World Famous Headliners, composed of leading songwriters and musicians; Rebecca Lynn Howard, Robert Earl Keen, Dean Dillon, Kacey Musgraves and Chuck Cannon. Most shows feature a rotating group of writer/performers and many have no admission charge. Headquartered at Key West’s Smokin’ Tuna Saloon, 4 Charles St., the festival presents shows at venues including island city bars, restaurants, resort beaches and poolsides and the Fury Catamaran during sunset cruises. Events kick off with an outdoor concert starring Anders Osborne. The festival benefits Shepherd Center’s SHARE Military Initiative, a rehabilitation program for service members with traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder. Festival information, www.kwswf.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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THE STRAZ CENTER

il divo - A Musical Affair: The Greatest Songs of Broadway Live - Fri, May 9

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l Divo – the record-breaking classical crossover group that has sold more than 26 million albums worldwide – will bring A Musical Affair: The Greatest Songs of Broadway Live to the Straz Center. The engagement supports the group’s 6th studio album, A Musical Affair.

It’s their first compilation of songs inspired by Broadway shows such as The Phantom of the Opera, Carousel and West Side Story. Il Divo is the world’s first and most successful classical crossover group. The foursome has sold more than 26 million albums worldwide, achieved more than 50 number one records, received 160 gold and platinum sales awards in more than 33 countries and staged four groundbreaking world tours. The international quartet is comprised of tenor Urs Buhler of Switzerland, baritone Carlos Marin of Spain, pop artist Sébastien Izambard of France and tenor David Miller from the United States. ‑For more information, visit www.strazcenter.org/

CUBAN CLUB

TROPICAL HEATWAVE MAY 9 - 10

One of the longest running festivals in the country, Tropical Heatwave has become an annual rite of spring for fans of eclectic music, with excitement, mystery, and legend contained in memories of the annual extravaganzas for longtime Heatwave devotees. The Heatwave tradition of extraordinary and eclectic live bands continues this year in two nights, May 9 and 10. The old courtyards at The Cuban Club and El Pasaje Plaza have been replaced with one big courtyard - the Cuban Club Mainstage - which will showcase top bands on both nights. The festival starts on Friday evening with three stages in and around the Cuban Club and New World Brewery. On Saturday the festival spreads from the Cuban Club area to include Crowbar, Carmine’s Courtyard, the Market on 7th, and the Orpheum. Jolley Trolley buses will be traveling back and forth, stopping at all the Heatwave venues on Saturday evening.

This year the band lineup (to name a few): The Hold Steady, Joseph Arthur, Hayes Carll, Katchafire, Victor Wainwright, Bright Light Social Hour, Black Taxi, David Mayfield Parade, The Main Squeeze, Moon Hooch, Roadkill Ghost Choir, Matrimony, Sol Caribe, Cope, The Hip Abduction, Kim Lenz Band, Rosco Bandana, bree, Wild Adriatic, Come Back Alice, Crankshaft and the Gear Grinders, The Deadfields, Loves It, Izzy and the Catastrophics, Hymn for Her, New Madrid, Good Graeff, Austin Miller, Dropin Pickup, Afeefa and The Boy, Displace, Big Blu House, Beartoe, Rocket 88, RedFeather, I-Resolution, People’s Temple, The Applebutter Express, WAHH! East-West Fusion Group, The Mighty Good and Strong Band, Acme Jazz Garage, The Tattered Saints, Amandla Tunesmith, The Real Clash, Lauris Vidal, The John Clark Band, The Wholetones, Ober Riv You can see the full band lineup at wmnf.org/events www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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MUSIC TRAX

Compiled by Roland Stone

PAUL HIGGS Pavane www.paulhiggs.co/album.html Pavane’ is a collection of original compositions that blur the boundaries between classical and jazz.

Each piece displays a new soundscape, and the exquisite sound of Paul’s trumpet transports us. From the sense of romantic longing in A Simple Truth, through the rising elegiac quality and counterpoint of Crystalline, to the haunting mystery of Catalonia, ‘Pavane’ takes the istener on an inspiring musical journey.

Ellen Rowe Courage Music www.ellenrowe.com The 4th release by pianist Ellen Rowe spotlights the dexterity of her longtime ensemble, augmented by trumpeter and flugelhornist Ingrid Jensen, as well as Rowe’s skills as an adroit composer and arranger. The album is well balanced by etended compositions that highlight Rowe’s mastery of form and textural color with concise performances that reveal the fluidity of her piano work.

Rowe’s pieces are inspired by both personal achievements and cherished memories of departed love ones.

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ANDREW HADRO For Us, the Living www.andrewhadro.com Baritone saxophonist and flutist Andrew Hadro displays his creativity and innovation on his first album as a leader. He uses a classic quartet format paired with fresh material by current composers and shows his own vision of music’s future.

His band is a powerhouse with drummer Matt Wilson, pianist Carmen Staaf, and bassist Daniel Fosse.

PROJECT THEM Project THEM www.markshermanmusic.com Project Them features master saxophonist/flutist Bob Franceschini (The Yellow Jackets) and a stellar group of musicians. The band brings a deeply rooted post bop approach to a program of originals and standards that carry on the art form. Their music is energetic and brimming with incredible improvisations.

PAUL TAYLOR Tenacity www.paultaylorsax.com Taylor has created his ever cool deeply soulful and rhythmic trip-hop influenced sax sound by working with some of urban jazz and R&B s top producers. His new album, Tenacity, was recorded with producer Dino Esposito, who brings out the varied rhythms and progressive sonics that the saxophonist displays so adroitly.

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DANNY FOX TRIO Wide Eyed www.dannyfoxmusic.com The Danny Fox Trio continues to push the boundaries of the classic piano trio format. Wide Eyed showcases the band’s uniquely personal, genre-defying original music, which falls somewhere between jazz and chamber music. The album contains quirky rhythms and catchy melodies.

STRANAHAN, ZALESKI, ROSATO TRIO Limitless www.stranahanzaleskirosato.com/ Stranahan/Zaleski/Rosato, a collective featuring drummer Colin Stranahan, pianist Glenn Zaleski, and bassist Rick Rosato, achieves a new level of musicality and sophistication on Limitless. The record features mostly compelling original compositions from each member of the trio. The natural rapport of the trio is captured on this live recording.

ENRICO GRANAFEI Alone (and) Together www.enricogranafei.com Harmonica virtuoso, classical guitarist, singer, songwriter, arranger, composer Enrico Granafei has a long history of musical experience which encompasses both Classical Music and Jazz. Enrico’s latest accomplishment is his work on Hands-Free-Chromatic Harmonica. The instrument allows him to play Chromatic Harmonica and Guitar at the same time. Close your eyes and you will hear two or three musicians but in fact it’s only one.

LISA HILTON Kaleidoscope www.lisahiltonmusic.com The 16th album from the Jazz pianist, producer and writer.

Kaleidoscope showcases Hilton’s upbeat compositions and agile piano with bassist Larry Grenadier and drummer Marcus Gilmore, with J.D. Allen on tenor sax. There’s retro, soulful ballads, solo piano, new takes on tradition, and romantic covers. The band delivers fun, power, passion and nuance in a refreshingly clear manner.

HARVEY MASON Chameleon

www.harveymason.net/ Harvey Mason provided the rhythmic spank for Herbie Hancock’s Chameleon, the jazz-funk staple. He co-wrote it with Hancock along with several other bandmates. Chameleon features some of the brightest young jazz talents on the scene today. Besides being the mainstay drummer of Fourplay (who has sold millions of albums, to date), Harvey has also worked with Barbra Streisand, James Brown, Beyonce, Christina Aguilera, Usher, Jennifer Hudson, Frank Sinatra, Ray Charles, Bjork, Carlos Santana, Michael Jackson, John Legend, Seal, and the London Symphony Orchestra. He has composed and written songs recorded by artists ranging from Nancy Wilson and Mary J. Blige to The Notorious B.I.G., Lupe Fiasco, Nelly/P. Diddy and T.I.

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Adult Contemporary & Classical LIBBY YORK Memoir www.libbyyork.com Libby York has the gift of transforming a song into a personal anthem. On her new album Memoir, she probes the lyrical content of a work to uncover inner connections to her own experience and state of being and finding relevance in standards from composers uncliuding Cole Porter and Geroge Gershwin and more. Her honeyed tone and vocal skills cinoliment her impeccable phrasing to make her one with the song.

CHAD HOOPES Mendelssohn & Adams: Violin Concertos www.chadhoopes.com The exceptional 19-year-old violinist’s first disc from Naïve Classique blends old-world passion and new-world panache, featuring two iconic concertosMendelssohn’s beloved Violin Concerto No. 2 in E Minor, Op. 64, and John Adams’ endlessly melodic Violin Concerto from 1993. The album shows off the violinist’s vast range, effortless virtuosity and exquisite tone.

Ann Sweeten

LAURA McMILLAN Storybook Love www.perhapspiano.com/ Laura McMillan believes in love, happiness and fairytalelike happy endings, so she named her third album of solo piano music Storybook Love.

When McMillan’s previous album, Linger Longer, was released, she received album reviews, airplay and notoriety around the world.

McMillan blends both traditional classical piano elements and a strong appreciation of Broadway music with modern new age and neo-classical motifs to create her own sound.

LAUREN KINHAN Circle In A Square www.laurenkinhan.com Lauren Kinhan has steadily established herself as a powerful composer. She offers an emotionally incisive and melodically enticing set of new songs on Circle In A Square. She focuses on telling h er own stories with songs seasoned by life and the contributions of some of jazz’s more evocative improvisers.

Tapestries of Time

www.annsweeten.com After 17 years of enamoring audiences on stage and Radio/Internet Airwaves, Ann Sweeten’s signature style is recognized world-wide and its magic resonates loudly in Tapestries of Time, her newest album. Will Ackerman, co-producer, states “the pieces on her new recording continue to surprise with their stunning performance and episodic composition, but are somehow more cohesive and focused than ever. The resulting experience is one of dazzling chance taking which never strays from the emotional center of her intent.” One of the most decorated pianists of the past decade, with 6 previous albums all ranking in the Top 5 NAR and ZMR Radio Reports, she is also one of the most played modern instrumentalists in North America.

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BLUES • ROCK • METAL

Gregg Allman All My Friends

www.celebrategreggallman.com/

In January, a multi-generational assortment of musicians from the worlds of rock, blues and country joined together at Atlanta’s Fox Theatre for an all-star performance to pay tribute to the life and music of Gregg Allman. Several of the guest performers are drawn from the Allman Brothers Band’s musical family, including current Warren Haynes and Derek Trucks and Gregg’s son Devon Allman.

Also performing are Jackson Browne, Dr. John, John Hiatt, Taj Mahal, Jimmy Hall and Sam Moore (of Sam and Dave fame), along with such younger acts as Robert Randolph, Keb’ Mo’, Widespread Panic and Pat Monahan of Train. The world of country music is represented by Eric Church, Trace Adkins, Vince Gill, Martina McBride, Zac Brown, Brantley Gilbert and Jess Franklin.

FRAMING HANLEY Sum Of Who We Are www.framinghanley.net/ This record is the band’s boldest artistic statement to date.

“There was definitely a dark period during the two years we spent recording this,” the band’s Nixon said. “That’s not to say this album is some dark and brooding album.

There are definitely some light-hearted tunes on here as well; some that are fun. This album is the past two years of our lives and is every part of our beings...that’s what the title means. This album really is the sum of who we are.”

ANNIHILATOR Feast www.annihilatormetal.com Annihilator’s latest has re-recorded classics on CD and the neverbefore-seen full Wacken Festival show on DVD in a special Ecolbook version with a 3D cover.

The 15-song bonus CD Re-Kill with newly recorded Annihilator classics will put it over the top for Annihilator’s legion of fans. There are 35 songs of Canadian Thrash Metal to enjoy.

THE SIXTH CHAMBER Crippled Souls www.thesixthchamber.com The Sixth Chamber is a dark, heavy, mind trip of a rock band formed in Los Angeles.

Through its different incarnations and evolutions, The Sixth Chamber has always insisted on an original sound and vision, and draws its roots from various forms of dark and heavy rock. Crippled Souls was actually recorded in 2004, and just recently released.

SAXON St. George’s Day – Live in Manchester www.urd-music.com This 2 CD set finds a blistering performance covering a collection of British Heavy Metal Band Saxon’s finest work from 1979 to 2013. The British NWOHM Legends traditionally perform each year on St. George’s Day. By doing so they are paying homage to England’s patron, Saint George. A very special rendition of ‘Broken Heroes’ goes straight to the heart and is dedicated to The British Armed Forces.

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New Age

Grammy Award winning engineer Corin Nelsen, and explores four themes: water, love, light and dreams.

PAUL SPAETH Redemption www.paulspaeth.com/epk “Redemption is an intimate, deeply felt, and powerfully played album. Spaeth’s playing style spotlights his control of nuance and shading, allowing his raw emotions to be channeled through the ivories. The journey to complete these songs spanned nearly a decade, and is steeped in personal experiences of life and love.

TIMOTHY WENZEL River Serene www.timothywenzel.com American-born artist Timothy Wenzel writes and plays highly engaging electroacoustic Contemporary Instrumental/New Age/Celtic music. His third album, “River Serene” was mastered by

JIM GARBRIEL Sojourn www.jim-gabriel.com Take a journey with Jim Gabriel on his debut release as he travels through a variety of sonic landscapes that vary between somber, minimalist tone poems, dramatic, passionate numbers and sprightly uptempo tunes. Sojourn is brimming with excellent music and was flawlessly produced.

PETER KATER & R. CARLOS NAKAI Ritual www.mysteriummusic.com In their first recording together in over 10 years, Native American Flutist, R. Carlos Nakai, and pianist/composer Peter Kater, stand again united on sacred ground, joined by legendary reedman, Paul McCandless, ethereal vocalist Trisha Bowden, and cellist, Jaques Morelenbaum.

Kristin Amarie Notes from a Journey www.amariemusic.com

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ristin Amarie is truly a “global citizen” and her music reflects the incredible diversity that has been her life experience. She has performed ith various groups singing everything from Scandinavian folk songs to bossa nova in Europe, Asia and the US. Now Kristin steps into her own spotlight on Notes From A Journey. Among the highlights is a special guest appearance by David Lanz, who adds his artistic touch on piano as well as in the lyrics. She shows the full range of her talent, from ethereal Enya-like incantations to lushly orchestrated compositions.

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GARY SMULYAN and DOMINIC CHIANESE

Bella Napoli

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ward winning baritone saxophonist Gary Smulyan teams up with Dominic Chianese (who played Uncle Junior on the popular HBO series ‘’The Sopranos’’ and Johnny Ola in ‘’Godfather II’’) for a delightful excursion through Neapolitan melodies. The songs on this recording are all drawn from the tradition of Canzone Napoletana from the Naples region during the late 19th and early 20th century. Dominic has a beautiful singing voice and is featured on half the tracks. The group backing Smulyan and Chianese include Gary Versace on piano and accordion, Joseph Brent on mandolin and violin, Martin Wind on bass and Matt Wilson on drums.

BOB ARDERN Craftsman www.bobardern.ca With influences from Celtic, classical and jazz, Bob Ardern’s new release, Craftsman, creates a gentle, uplifting atmosphere.

The recording features 11 original tracks of acoustic instruments using guitars, capos, cello, glockenspiel, percussion and a host of other instruments and musicians. Relax and enjoy.

REBEL TUMBAO Rebel Tumbao www.rebeltumbao.com/ Rebel Tumbao is a family of like minded musicians committed to creating and performing music packed with groove, consciousness, spirituality, resistance, and positive vibrations with an authentic sound they call “AfroLatinRootsReggae”. This funky fresh earthly sound is the fusion of Roots Reggae and contemporary Cuban Son – with influences of 70’s Soul, Gospel, the Blues, Jazz and African folkloric idioms.

PEDRO LUIS FERRER Final www.amazon.com with his new release, Final, Pedro Luis Ferrer has created a series of beautiful, intimate portraits, passion and heartbreak bound together by his gentle music.

A poet and philosopher, he’s a man who has moved away from the mainstream of Cuban music. On Final, poetry of the words and intimate voices are framed by guitar, Cuban tres and percussion, and colored by soft touches of brass and strings.

VIN DOWNES Unlike The Stars www.vindownes.com “Unlike the Stars” was written and recorded with Grammy Award winning producer Will Ackerman and co-producer/engineer Tom. Guests Will Ackerman, Tom Eaton, Eugene Friesen, Tony Levin and David Watson join finger-style guitarist Downes on this CD of songs that are emotional, expressive and show off Downes’ musical skills.

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Tasty Food and Drinks!

“Brews & Bites” Celebrates Summer at Sail Pavilion

On the second Friday of every month, the Sail Pavilion hosts a Brews & Bites Food Truck Rally. The May event is a collaboration of delicious food and fun featuring local food trucks and live entertainment on the venue’s unique 360-degree waterfront bar. Friday, May 9, 2014 from 6 to 11 p.m. 333 S. Franklin St, Tampa, FL Sail Pavilion is located on Tampa’s busy RiverWalk, adjacent to the Tampa Convention Center. For additional information, 813-373-1193 or visit www.tampaconventioncenter.com

restaurants’ during Clearwater Beach Restaurant Week. The event is on Clearwater Beach’s Beach Walk Promenade between the Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce office & the Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa. It will feature a tasting from each participating restaurant, a wine garden, live music, exquisite raffle items and an awesome fireworks display at dusk. Once you’ve whet your appetite, embark on the food adventure that awaits you during Restaurant Week. 5.30 p.m. - 8.30 p.m. Beach Walk on S. Gulfview Blvd. between the Hyatt Regency Resort and Crabby’s Bar & Grill. www. clearwaterbeachrestaurantweek.com

Special Tasting Event at St. Pete’s Everything Dolce - Sat, May 10

Clearwater Beach Taste Fest - Fri, May 9 The Clearwater Beach Taste Fest is a celebration party introducing you to the participating restaurants that invite you to EAT – VOTE – WIN at their

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Sample handcrafted sweets, rather than seafood or meats, perfectly paired with a selection of fine wines 4 - 6 p.m. Saturday, May 10, at Everything Dolce. Located at 937 Central Ave., Everything Dolce is a new dessert bar in downtown St. Petersburg.

Wines selected exclusively to pair with pastries will mix well with select made-from-scratch desserts at this special event. Featured wines highlight each dessert dish and add an element that completes, rather than competes, with the distinctive flavors of French Nut Cake or Belgian Fudge Brownies.

“Typically people focus on what wine they want to enjoy while dining on fish or a filet and tend to not consider how wine can enhance the flavors of a dessert,” said Lou Albano, owner of Everything Dolce.

“With the extraordinary talents of Executive Pastry Chef Michael Ostrander and the exceptional wines provided by Western Wine Merchants, we have created a sensational tasting menu that will give our guests new appreciation for how well sweets and wines go together.” www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Chef Michael Ostrander is an executive pastry chef who prepares all of the pastries and desserts featured daily at Everything Dolce. His award-winning career includes serving as a pastry educator at Johnson & Wales Culinary Institute as well as working at upscale hotels and resorts throughout the country, including the Beverly Hills Hilton in Beverly Hills, CA and Donald Trump’s Mar a Lago Club in Palm Beach, FL. He earned a gold medal in a prestigious, international pastry competition held in Graz, Austria and currently teaches beginning to advanced baking techniques at his baking academy in Largo.

727-895-4495. www.everythingdolce.com/

Evening with the Chefs: A Culinary Arts Dream Come True - Thurs, May 15

www.accentontampabay.com

The Ryan Wells Foundation and the Sheraton Sand Key Resort will present the 9th Annual “Evening with the Chefs” on May 15.

Event proceeds support the ProStart culinary high school programs and students of Dixie Hollins, Jacobson Culinary Academy in Tarpon Springs, Northeast , Osceola and PTEC. The students work alongside several of Pinellas county’s finest chefs to deliver gourmet appetizers, entrees and desserts. In addition to presenting the 2014 Ryan Wells Foundation Culinary Scholarships, there will

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Tasty Food and Drinks! also be Live Entertainment, Silent and Live Auction featuring unique destinations, fine jewelry, artwork, exquisite dinner parties, and more.

The Ryan Wells Foundation has awarded 82 scholarships amounting to $424,000 and donated $266,000 to local programs. www.ryanwellsfoundation.com

BBQ, Blues & Berry Festival in Inverness - Sat May 17

It’s going to be a berri-licious time, with BBQ competitions & live music added to the fun of the Inverness Farmers Market, Saturday, May 17, 9 a.m.

- 2 p.m. The Inverness Farmer’s Market takes place the first and third Saturday of each month in beautiful downtown historic Inverness. 212 West Main Street, Inverness, FL 34450. For more information call 352.726.2611

disabled military veterans.

Enjoy premium wines, gourmet cuisine, fabulous auction items, free valet parking and a museum tour at Tampa Bay’s preeminent wine and food showcase. “This tasting is dedicated to the memory of Foundation benefactor and mentor Sharon O’Gradney-Krkljus, owner of O’Bistro” said Frank De Lucia, president and CEO of the Abilities Foundation. “It was Sharon who introduced the concept of a VIP Private Reception at the Abilities Wine Tasting while at Tropicana Field. She also hosted many Foundation meetings, dinners and tributes at O’ Bistro and supported our tastings for each of the past 20 years.”

The tasting begins with a VIP Officer’s Club Reception from 6-9 p.m., followed by the Grand Tasting from 7-9 p.m. Among the restaurants and wine purveyors scheduled are Parkshore Grill and 400 Beach Drive, O’Bistro, Ricky P’s New Orleans Bistro, Bascom’s Chop House, Craft, Mr. Bill’s Fine Foods, Flipper’s Pizzeria, Barry’s Brownies, Cabot Creamery, Casey’s Cookies, Maple Leaf Farms, Zonin USA, Southern Wine & Spirits, Stacole, Big Crush, Pic Pac The Wine Source, Premier Beverage Company, Cremashi Imports, Yuengling Brewery, Rock Brothers Brewing, and Joffrey’s Coffee.

Buy tickets online at www.abilitiesfoundation.com or call 727-600-8911. Designated driver tickets can only be purchased by calling 727-600-8911.

Raymond James Presents the 25th annual Abilities Wine Tasting & Auction at the Armed Forces History Museum - Sat, May 24

Presented by Raymond James and selected as a three-time, top-five finalist for WEDU’s Be More Awards Special Event of the Year, Abilities’ is Florida’s longest-running and most prosperous one-night tasting, netting $3.6 million to date. The event at the museum accentuates the fundraising mission to serve returning

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Grand Marnier Lapostolle

Raspberry Peach

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rand Marnier new Signature Collection N° 2 Raspberry Peach is rich, complex, fruity, and delivers a perfect marriage of Grand Mariner’s signature cognacs laced with orange essence and the natural raspberry and peach flavors. The Raspberry Peach combines European raspberries and rare red peaches from the South of France.

The versatility of this sophisticated product makes it perfect for any special occasion, such as this delicious Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach Cosmo: 2 oz Grand Marnier Raspberry Peach; 1 oz cranberry juice; 1/2 oz fresh lime juice.

Combine all ingredients in a shaker and shake.

Strain into a cocktail glass and garnish with a twist.

Enjoy!

For more information about Grand Marnier fine products and recipes, please visit www.grand-marnier.com/

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in e c n e i er p x E g in n i D er t n n a e c C c t ro o o c p M E e s d’ l r A Tru o W Disney Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott and Al Martino

Spices galore.

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Spice Road Table’s magnificent bar and light fixtures.

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Hummus and imported olives.

Hammered designed brass tables and leather chairs.

You won’t find a Moroccan restaurant on every street corner in Florida. In fact they are pretty darn scarce. If you do find one, chances are it will be Americanized. The Moroccan pavilion at Disney’s Epcot recently opened Spice Road Table, a surprisingly reasonably priced restaurant with the real authentic taste—and feel—of Morocco.

As soon as you enter the restaurant, you are transported to Marrakesh in this decidedly Moorish building. All of the appointments were imported from Morocco - from the ornate lamps, to hammered-designed brass tables to wall hangings. Some of the articles are made to look aged, and some are genuinely old.

The restaurant is quite intimate considering Disney’s standards (large!) At a recent Spice Road Table tasting we enjoyed the cozy atmosphere of a four-seat Banquette, but, of course, larger tables are also available. With the floor-to-ceiling arched windows we reveled in the spectacular view we had of the fireworks over World Showcase Lagoon.

The menu is Morrocan/Mediterranean, with the wine and beer selections emanating from Morocco, Spain or Greece as well. The presentation of Small Plates allows guests to sample many delightful tastes which may be new to them. The restaurant also offers two Chef Specials which emphasize either seafood or meat.

Fried calamari and spicy garlic shrimp.

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w Amazing location to watch the Illuminations fireworks.

Beef grill skewers with garlic and fresh herbs.

We sampled quite a few different menu items, and were pleased with most every one of them. Before our meal, we enjoyed a refreshing Lillet aperitif with the flavors of honey, orange, lime and mint. Dinner began with a delicate hummus and olive dish, then on to tender fried calamari with spicy Harissan and capers aioli sauces, and rice stuffed grape leaves with fried capers, raisins and nutmeg. The dishes have recognizable spices, but are created perfectly as to not overwhelm the senses. Next we sampled the spicy garlic shrimp sautĂŠed with dried chillies and fried garlic, and some mixed grill skewers of beef and chicken with garlic and fresh herbs.

Very tasty lamb sliders with brioche, cucumber dill and mint tzatziki sauce came next. For dessert, the restaurant offers a choice of a chocolate pyramid with almond ice cream, a saffron and lemon custard (served like a crème brulee), and assorted baklavas. We, of course, tried them all, and consequently, enjoyed them all! The custard was a particular standout for me.

I was in Morocco many years ago, and this visit to Spice Road Table, and the Moroccan Pavilion itself, really brought back the memories I enjoyed there. If you have been to Morocco, or have always wanted to go, visit the Moroccan Pavilion. It may whet your appetite to visit the country, or just visit the Spice Road Table for a tantalizing dining experience.

For more information on Spice Road Table, please visit disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining

Lamb sliders.

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Chicken grill skewers.

Chocolate pyramid with almond ice cream.

Server Nadia pours a mean mint tea.

Lots of interesting wall decor from Morocco.

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What’s happening in the “World” 21st Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival - thru 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. The garden party continues for 75 days. The food-and-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 doit-yourself inspiration, and popular HGTV celebrities will headline weekend seminars filled with home, garden and design ideas.

For more information about the 2 1 s t 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.

Rockin’ Flower Power Weekend Concerts during the 21st International Flower & Garden Festival

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This spring, guests can boogie to their favorite “far out” pop tunes and rock ‘n’ roll classics of the 1960s and ’70s. Here is the 2014 lineup (subject to change without notice): May 2-4 - Starship starring Mickey Thomas “We Built This City”; May 9-11 - Chubby Checker & The Wildcats “The Twist”; May 16-18 NEW! Alan Parsons Live Project “Eye in the Sky” Performances are at America Gardens Theatre at 5:30, 6:45 and 8 p.m. every Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

A New After-Dark Experience Treats Epcot Guests to One More Bite of Fun

After a day of blooms and bulbs, the IllumiNations SparR CHECKE Y B B U H kling Dessert Party bursts with C color in the sky, and bubbles in the glass. Guests can sample decadent desserts from around the world, paired with the perfect international sparkling wines in an intimate and exclusive environment – all while watching Epcot’s nightly fireworks spectacular, IllumiNations.

Maleficent’ Sneak Peek at Disney’s Hollywood Studios - thru Mid-June

Guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios will have the

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chance to see a special extended trailer of “Maleficent” in the ABC Sound Studio. “Maleficent” opens in theaters on May 30 and stars Angelina Jolie in the untold story of Disney’s villain from the classic “Sleeping Beauty” and what turns her heart to stone.

New Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade Debuts at Magic Kingdom

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 1,000-acre island offers one-of-a-kind areas and activities for every member of the family.

Out-of-this-World Fun! Star Wars Weekends - May 16 - June 15

Disney’s Hollywood Studios becomes Star Wars central for guests of all ages. 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 meetand-greet areas. Guests can experience one of the largest Star Wars parades and dance the night away at the surprise-filled “Hyperspace Hoopla.”

A colorful new Magic Kingdom daytime parade will make its grand entrance onto Main Street, U.S.A. in March. Featuring seven unique units comprised of nine floats with a cast of more than 100 performers, Disney Festival of Fantasy parade celebrates the stories and characters of Fantasyland. The parade comes to life through fantastic and innovative new parade floats, vibrant costumes and an original soundtrack featuring beloved songs from favorite Disney films, including its very own theme song.

Seven Swarfs Mine Train Coaster

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

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

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ORLANDO HAPPENINGS Comng up in Orlando SEAWORLD’S BREAKAWAY FALLS Opening May 9 - The tallest, steepest and only multi-drop tower slide of its kind in Orlando and all of the southern United States – dropping at Aquatica Orlando on May 9.

At nearly 80 feet tall, Ihu’s Breakaway Falls is where you’ll face your fears and each other. Offering four unique slide paths, you’ll step into one of three “breakaway boxes” and watch each other fall one-by-one or test your bravery on a fourth open slide for a different but just as thrilling experience. You’ll never know who’s going to breakaway first – and the anticipation of who drops next is part of the wild ride!

Diagon Alley Opening Summer 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.

DUPLO Valley at LEGOLAND Opening May 23 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.

I-Drive Indoor Kart Racing - Visitors with a need for speed will love the new I-Drive Indoor Kart Racing. This multi-level entertainment center includes a half-mile (805-meter) track for the electricpowered go-karts, bowling lanes and an arcade. www. idriveracing.com/ Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Opening Nov, 2014 - 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. www.drphillipscenter.org/ Cabana Bay Beach Resort NOW OPEN Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort is the fourth and largest on-site hotel at Universal Orlando Resort. Inspired by retro resorts of the 1950s and 60s, the 1800-room hotel features moderately priced family suites and value-priced guest rooms. Guests can experience a 10-lane bowling alley and enjoy two massive pools with sand beaches, a lazy river, waterslide and more.

Water Ski Show on Lake Silver in Winter Haven - thru 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/ VisitOrlando.com for more information on Orlando events.

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he spirit of Mardi Gras isn’t bound to the Big Easy; the connection sparks as the parade rolls by, as the beads fill the air, when the music swells as the stage lights rise. And now you can be a part of it all at Universal Studios Mardi Gras Grand Celebration. Join the party with a dazzling parade, beads by the handful, and an amazing concert line-up. The French Quarter Courtyard sizzles with live music direct from New Orleans and authentic Cajun food like Spicy Jambalaya, Grilled Andouille Sausage, Shrimp Gumbo and more.

Upcoming concerts: Apr 5 - SKILLET; Apr 12 - LYNYRD SKYNYRD; Apr 19 - KOOL & THE GANG; May 3 - NELLY; May 10 - THE WANTED; May 17 - THE ROOTS; May 24 - CHER LLOYD; May 31 - HUEY LEWIS AND THE NEWS; June 7 - ROBIN THICKE www.universalorlando.com

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eaWorld is celebrating 50 years of family fun with an 18 month-long celebration. See a new Shamu Show and a Surprise Squad delivering prizes and surprises throughout the park, new entertainment to animal encounters, and festive shows to fireworks finales to top off summer evenings.

Walking through the park, guests are often surprised to be greeted by one of the many animal ambassadors, many of whom were orphaned or injured in the wild and given a second chance thanks to the SeaWorld Rescue Team.

New animal encounters include the fun of flamingo parades to the grace of the magnificent eagle.

A Splash Dance is making its way around the park. Water buckets will be juggling and a slapstick show turns into a high-energy dance production.

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TRAVELOGUE

MSC Cruises The Divine Divina

By Barbara McGovern

Photos courtesy of MSC Cruises and Tim McGovern

MSC

Cruise Ships is a family company headquartered in Italy which has concentrated on the European market in the past. Although they have sailed to the U.S. and some other countries, this is the first time one of their ships will be based in the U.S. The MSC Divina arrived in Miami in November, 2013 to serve the American market.

What a magnificent ship! She left on her maiden American voyage to a grand send off, complete with fireworks and a fun deck party.

The Divina epitomizes everything that makes MSC the line that it is. Attention to details makes the Divina special. MSC’s hallmark is promoting the Mediterranean lifestyle that the region is famous for. La Dolce Vita — The Divina has that in spades, from her Godmother, the

fabulous Sophia Loren, to the incredible Svorski crystal staircases and the outstanding “ship with a ship” — the Yacht Club. We were wowed by the Divina. All the eye candy is wonderful but there is much more to impress the guests. Consider the intangibles, the things that really make the ship so special: the outstanding staff that make your trip the event that you expect; the army of specialists that ensures your comfort and peace of mind; The maintenances crew - 110 plumbers, 80 electricians, 54 carpenters, the 100 people on the fire brigade and the 50 people on the medical staff. These are the people we seldom see but are key to the smooth operation of the vessel. We get to know our waiters, cabin stewards, the bar men and the guest relations people but do we realize how important they are to our enjoyment of the cruise? Do we appreciate them or do we only acknowledge them when we have a complaint?

Think about it.

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The Divina is a floating city, at 1,094 feet in length and weighing almost 140,000 tons. It serves almost 4,500

guests on 18 decks, and is equipped with the best of everything in order to ensure that every one of those guests have a memorable vacation. There is outstanding dining in seven restaurants to accommodate every taste, 13 indoor and 5 outdoor bars and lounges, 5 pools, a theatre that has some of the best shows you will every see, a casino, plus amazing shopping (husbands, beware!) There is even an outdoor movie on the pool deck. (It sure beats the old drive in movies.) There hot tubs, a spa and a well-equipped gym and a solarium. Life is good on the Divina.

The ship has wonderful program for their youngest cruisers. There’s a Mini Club for the tiny guests that affords the moms and dads some free time to re-charge knowing that their children are safe and having supervised fun.

There’s a special club for the pre-teens and older teens where they have their own area away from mom and dad — a win-win situation. MSC also has a program where children travel free. It is a great way to create a real multigenerational vacation. Entire families, moms, dads, cousins and grandparents can join in the fun.

Divina Atrium

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Bacco La Cantina di

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McGovern

MSC offers several theme cruises.

The cruise we were on was a “Baseball Greats.” You can check their website to see what other theme cruises are being offered.

The Mediterranean spirit is alive and well on all of MSC ships. You can party day and night or you can relax and do nothing. It’s up to you. The Divina lets you do your own thing. We took the Winemakers Experience to learn how to taste, blend and make your own special bottle of wine with your own label. It was fun and informative. Or you can just sit in one of the beautiful lounges and listen to the music; watch a football game or have a beer. What ever you want to do, it’s all there for you on the beautiful Divina.

We have been on many MSC cruises and can honesty say that we have never had a bad cruise. We’ve had some bad weather and a few so-so ports, but never a bad cruise.

If you haven’t cruised with MSC, please check them out.

I’m sure you will enjoy them as much as we do. Just an aside, I would bring a bar of soap and shampoo if you have a favorite. I have noticed that most ships and hotels, in the interest of the environment and the bottom line, are only offering those items as attached to the shower.

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One thing I want to mention is something very

special that MSC is doing. It is dedicated to helping children though UNICEF. Brazil is the biggest and most populous country in Latin America and it is also one of the 11th most unequal countries in the world.

Education is the key to change this. Over the past two years MCS has been the principal supporter of an innovative UNICEF project to combat poverty and inequality by helping children in the vulnerable communities of Rio de Janeiro and San Paolo to have access to a quality education. Thanks to the generosity of their cruise guests they have been able to donate over 1 million Euros to start to make a difference. MCS has underwritten the program and you can help donate.

The children are the future and they deserve the best.

That’s why children can travel free on MCS and that’s why we can all help. Check www.msc-unicef.org to get more information.

Remember, as with most ships, the crews are from many different countries. Most crew members do speak English, but it’s not their native language. Bear with them, you’re there to relax and have a good time.

It may take a bit longer to get what you need but you will be well taken care of.

Choose the MSC family for your family’s vacation.

You will be glad you did. For more information, please visit MSCcruisesusa.com

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Gaming Scene Las Vegas mamMa mia! at the new tropicana. www.troplv.com Benny Andersson and Björn Ulvaeus’ global smashhit musical Mamma Mia! begins performances May 8 at the all-new Tropicana Theater inside The New Tropicana resort in Las Vegas. Mamma Mia! continues its success around the world having been seen by more than 54 million people in 38 productions in 14 languages in over 400 cities. Now celebrating 13 smash-hit years on Broadway and over 5,000 performances, it is one of only five musicals to have run for more than 10 years on Broadway. divorce party las vegas at bally’s. www.ballyslasvegas.com/ An 80-minute comedic musical event, Divorce Party Las Vegas, centers around Linda, still reeling from her divorce, as her friends turn her despair into a weekend of hilarity. Hailed by the L.A. Weekly as a blend of “Sex and the City with Dr. Phil, Oprah and SNL,” the show uses laughs, songs and the occasional shock factor to explore the realities of divorce, long term relationships and moving on.

BELLAGIO EVENTS: www.bellagio.com EXECUTIVE CHEF’S CULINARY CLASSROOM - Bellagio presents a year of all new cooking experiences in 2014 as part of the culinary series, An Executive Chef’s Culinary Classroom. The educational series includes interactive cooking classes led by Bellagio Executive Chef Edmund Wong and his team of culinary artists. During each two-hour session held in Tuscany Kitchen, the AAA Five Diamond resort’s state-of-theart demonstration kitchen, Wong and his skilled team guide students as they compose and prepare an exceptional three-course meal, all while sharing a variety of delicious culinary secrets. The remaining schedule: Grilling Perfection - May 28; Father’s Day Bellagio Barbeque - June 12; What to Eat First? The Chicken or the Egg - Aug 27; Farm to Table - Sept 24; Cooking with Chocolate - Oct 1; Harvesting Thanksgiving - Nov 19.

Bellagio Gallery Presents “Painting Women” - thru Oct 26. Organized in partnership with the Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, the exhibition showcases 34 paintings spanning the 18th, 19th and 20th centuries, revealing the story of women artists, their activism and artistic achievements. The works represent the increased opportunities for education, domestic independence and artistic training that allowed many

LADY GAGA’S ARTPOP BALL TOUR at the MGM GRAND July 19 & Aug 1 www.mgmgrand.com/ One of the top global touring acts of our time, Lady Gaga is hitting the road in support of her new album ARTPOP. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see Lady Gaga LIVE at MGM!

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women to pursue their dreams of becoming professional painters, dating back to the late 18th century. The exhibition features works by such iconic women artists as Mary Cassatt, Georgia O’Keeffe Berthe Morisot, and Louise Élisabeth Vigée Le Brun.

The Cromwell Now Accepting Reservations Beginning May 21. www.thecromwell.com/ The Cromwell, the new Las Vegas hotel, is set to welcome its first guests beginning May 21. With its prime location on one of the busiest intersections of the Las Vegas Strip – one that welcomes more than 20 million passersby each year – The Cromwell Hotel and Casino will offer an exceptional luxury Las Vegas hotel experience in an intimate boutique hotel setting.

Riviera Hotel & Casino “Pawn Stars” parody “PAWN SHOP LIVE!” www.pawnshopshow.com/ The Broadway-style comedy PAWN SHOP LIVE!, a comedic nod to the story behind the reality smash hit “Pawn Stars,” is now open at the Riviera Hotel & Casino. The production, which has been fully endorsed by the stars of the hit television show, includes story contributions from the Harrison family. Nightly at 4:30 p.m. inside the Starlite Theatre.

Justin Timberlake: The 20/20 Experience World Tour at MGM Grand Aug 8 www.mgmgrand.com/ One of this generation’s most-celebrated entertainers, Justin Timberlake, will bring his electrifying The 20/20 Experience World Tour to the MGM Grand. After dominating the global charts with the release of his acclaimed album, The 20/20 Experience, Timberlake will bring his over-the-top live show to fans. This is the Grammy and Emmy Award-winning artist’s first tour in six years!

Red Rock Resort Sandbar Summer Concert Series. www.redrock.sclv.com Red Rock Resort’s outdoor concert series welcomes the summer with performances by The Goo Goo Dolls, Daughtry and Plain White T’s (Aug. 1), KANSAS (May 17) and more. With a remarkable concert lineup and the opportunity to dip your toes into the pools, the Sandbar Summer Concert Series offers a live music experience unlike any other.

New York-New York Transforms StripSide Façade. www.montecarlo.com/ New York-New York Hotel & Casino officially unveiled its transformed Strip-front façade featuring a reimagined public plaza, expanded outdoor dining patio and four new retail venues. Anchored by the property’s Brooklyn Bridge, the plaza delivers an animated and engaging pedestrian environment at the south end of Las Vegas Blvd., encouraging guests to become part of the scene.

MONTE CARLO’S NEW PLAZA. www.montecarlo.com/ The dynamic new plaza at Monte Carlo delivers a cool, high-energy atmosphere for Vegas’ sultry sum-

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Las Vegas cont mer nights. The plaza features an array of offerings including Double Barrel, the first authentic roadhouse experience on The Strip; Yusho, authentic Japanese MEN: THE EXPERIENCE street food by celebrated chef Matthias Merges; SamCasino www.rivierahotel.com/ balatte, the ultimate coffee Men The Experience, Las Veexperience; 800 Degrees Neapoligas’ new male revue, has come to tan Pizzeria, serving build-yourthe Riviera’s entertainment lineup. own personal pizzas baked in an Starring some of Las Vegas’ most 800-degree wood-burning oven; seductive men and featuring highand BLVD Creamery, a contempoenergy choreography and a mulrary ice cream shop with creamy timedia set, Men The Experience slow-churned ice cream and trendy premieres at the Crazy Girls Thetreats. atre inside Riviera Hotel & Casino. da Vinci: THE exhibitION at the Venetian www.venetian.com/ Da Vinci the Exhibition is a hands-on exploration of the life and work of the original Renaissance man, Leonardo Da Vinci. Visitors of all ages will be inspired as they operate many of the 65 inventions and machines brought to life from Da Vinci’s Codices, and they will marvel over his advanced anatomical studies and world-renowned paintings.

“Men: The Experience” DebutS at Riviera Hotel/

Brooklyn Bowl at The LINQ www.vegas.brooklynbowl.com/ Brooklyn Bowl opens its doors at The LINQ, Caesars Entertainment’s open air district in the center of the Strip. Following in the footsteps of the original Brooklyn location and their recently opened outpost at the O2 in London, Brooklyn Bowl Las Vegas will feature live concerts, 32 lanes of bowling and food by Blue Ribbon. With three levels spanning over 80,000 square feet, it will be one of the largest music venues in America, and will offer program-

ming throughout the day and late into the night.

El Loco Open at The Adventuredome www.adventuredome.com/elloco/ Only the second of its kind in the United States, the new roller coast-

er is now open and invites thrill seekers of all ages to experience a 72-second, adrenaline-pumping adventure complete with G drops, gravity-defying turns and over-theedge twists. El Loco’s soaring eyecatching structure offers a unique and exhilarating ride experience in a small footprint. Reaching a maximum speed of 45 mph, El Loco pushes the limits with unique coaster elements that drop, turn and twist riders around 1,300 feet of electric yellow track for a thrill-asecond adventure.

Las Vegas High Roller Now Open www.caesars.com/thelinq Ushering in a new era of excitement in entertainment, the Las Vegas High Roller, the world’s tallest observation wheel, is now officially opened at The LINQ.

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Gaming Scene cont Biloxi 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.

SCRATCH IT RICH – thru May 31. Scratch It Rich returns to Beau Rivage with millions in FREEPLAY and prizes including electronics, cash and more. Be one of the up to 540 participants to take home a share of FREEPLAY; that’s up to 60 winners per drawing day.

Drawings are every Saturday from 6:00 p.m.-11:00 p.m. and all prizes double at the 11:00 p.m. drawing. Win a share of up to $175,000 in FREEPLAY and prizes each drawing day.

UPCOMING ENTERTAINMENT May 17 - SARA EVANS; May 23 - JO DEE MESSINA; May 30 - CHICAGO; June 7 - B.B. King; June 17 – August 17; Saltoriya Theatrical Circus Sensations; August 22 - KENNY ROGERS; Sept. 26 - RICK SPRINGFIELD. CHICAGO

RICK SPRINGFIELD

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 80

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Child’s Play

WarmZe Baby Bottle Warmer

BABY COMFY NOSE

www.warmze.com/

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he WarmZe is the first truly portable bottle warmer that frees parents from being tethered to a car outlet or trapped in a kitchen when heating milk.

Easy to use and store in your diaper bag or next to your bed for late night feedings, the WarmZe system consists of air-activated warmers and a fabric BottleSoc. To warm a bottle, you simply slide the BottleSoc onto your breast milk or formula bottle, pull up the outer layer of the BottleSoc and attach a warmer, then pull the outer lay of the BottleSoc back down into place.

In just 30 minutes, the bottle will be warmed to the ideal temperature (90104 degrees), and you never have to worry about the milk overheating.

BABEE COVEE www.babeecovee.com/

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nvented by accident by a mom during a playdate, the Babee Covee is a versatile baby blanket and cover that has six uses in one. This award-winning must-have baby gear eliminates the need to buy, pack and carry bulky single purpose items while protecting baby from germs where ever you go; no more overflowing diaper bag’ no more blanket falling off the car seat and no more germs on publicly shared items.

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he Baby ComfyNose nasal aspirator uses parentpowered suction, which provides effective mucus removal for your child’s congested nose. The patented tissue filtration system is superior to foam rubber filters and no filters to buy. The nylon mesh drawstring pouch allows the aspirator to hygienically dry after washing.

Use the open mesh pouch for convenient storage at home or in the diaper bag. The suction power is limited only by the suction you can draw.

Babee Covee can be used as a: Car seat cover (“tent” style); Shopping cart cover; Nursing cover; Stroller blanket/cover; High chair cover; Playtime blanket.

It stays put with no-slip ties despite kicks and wiggles, and is reversible and machine washable.

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K’NEX presents new line of “Family Guy” Building Sets

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he new Family Guy product line combines the K’NEX building system with the iconic characters and elements from Family Guy including, Peter, Stewie, Brian, the Griffin Family station wagon, Stewie’s time machine and more, bringing them from the television screen to the construction aisle for the first time.

The partnership with K’NEX Brands allows fans to collect, build environments and interact with Stewie, Peter, Brian and the entire family in a whole new way.

Family Guy follows the adventures of an endearingly ignorant dad, Peter Griffin, and his hilariously odd family of middle-class New Englanders in Quahog, RI. Lois is Peter’s wife, a stay-at-home mom with no patience for her family’s antics. Then there are their kids: 18-year-old Meg is an outcast at school and the Griffin family punching bag; 13-year-old Chris is a socially awkward teen who doesn’t have a clue about the opposite sex; and one-year-old Stewie is a diabolically clever baby.

Rounding out the Griffin household is Brian, the family dog and a ladies man.

“Family Guy has a multi-generational appeal,” said Michael Araten, President & CEO of K’NEX Brands. “Our partnership with Twentieth Century Fox Consumer Products will allow building fans of all ages to bring the fictional world of Quahog, Rhode Island, to life in a new and exciting way.”

ALTERNAVITES For Kids www.alternavites.com

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ids vitamins don’t need to be chalky chewables or sugary gummies that are misisng nutrients and stick to your teeth. alternaVites Kids is a multivitamin and mineral specially designed for children 4 and up. Simply sprinkle alternaVites on the tongue where it melts quickly, or sprinkle on top of fruit, or mix into yogurts, puddings or smoothies. Kids will love the taste, and it has 0 grams of sugar.

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DVD VIEWS

Compiled by Papande Newman

HAUNTED HISTORY www.history.com

America is often haunted by its past, which explains why ghost stories have always been an integral part of this nation’s oral history. Viewers will visit some of the darkest, scariest corners of the country—from the battlefields of Gettysburg to the exact spot of the Salem Witch Trials. Each episode will flash back to horrific events that transpired at these locations, while speaking with local historians and authorities on present day paranormal activity.

Find out for sure if these tales are truly fact, fiction or something else entirely.

DIAGNOSIS MURDER The Complete Series

www.diagnosismurder.com Starring: Dick Van Dyke, Barry Van Dyke Legendary, five-time Emmy Award-winner Dick Van Dyke recognized for his iconic TV roles in 2013 with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Screen Actors Guild enjoyed yet another hit series for eight seasons (1993-2001) as Dr. Mark Sloan on CBS hour-long murder mystery, Diagnosis Murder. As chief of internal medicine at Community General Hospital in Los Angeles and a L.A.P.D. consultant, Sloan has a knack for getting into trouble, negotiating the twists and turns of mysteries and solving crimes with the help of his son, Steve, a homicide detective played by real-life son Barry Van Dyke.

THOMAS & FRIENDS: King of the Railway - The Movie wwwthomasandfriends.com

Join Thomas & Friends as they embark on a legendary movie adventure. The steam team’s quest begins when a special guest arrives on Sodor with a big surprise and important jobs for Thomas, Percy and James. The engines meet new friends and discover suits of armor; coats of arms and legends of long-ago heroes. Then their bravery is put to the test when their new friend Stephen goes missing. Will Thomas find him in time? Will the engines discover the truth about the Island of Sodor’s biggest mystery? It’s a crusade of knightly proportions for Thomas & Friends in this epic movie.

Laverne & Shirley The Seventh Season www.paramount.com Starring: Penny Marshall, Cindy Williams, Michael McKean, David L. Lander The half-hour situation comedy revolved around the friendship between bright-eyed, naive and demure Shirley Feeney and brassy, tough-talking, street smart Laverne De Fazio. The duo dated an array of questionable men, tolerated their dippy, loony neighbors Lenny and Squiggy, and forever tried to “make all their dreams come true.”

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www.disney.com/theloneranger

Johnny Depp and Armie Hammer star in THE LONE RANGER, from Jerry Bruckheimer Films and Director Gore Verbinski. It's a wild ride of high-velocity action, explosions and gunfights that brings the famed masked legend to life through brand-new eyes. The Lone Ranger (Hammer), the last of his kind, teams with Tonto (Depp), a dark and mysterious vigilante, to seek vengeance after justice has failed them. It's a runaway train of epic surprises, as these two unlikely heroes must learn to work together before the ultimate showdown between good and evil explodes.

CONCUSSION

UNFINISHED SONG

Starring: Robin Weigert, Julie Fain Lawrence, Janel Moloney, Ben Shenkman,

Starring: Terence Stamp, Gemma Arterton, Christopher Eccleston, Vanessa Redgrave

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Abby is a suburban wife and mother married to her overachieving partner Kate. But soon after Abby is hit in the head in a playground accident, she will shed her boring soccer-mom life to become a high-priced call girl for women. And when her worlds collide, the lines between love and desire may experience the most unexpected traumas of all. This is a provocative and acclaimed debut feature from writer/director Stacie Passon.

Arthur (Terence Stamp), a curmudgeonly old soul, is perfectly content with his reliable daily routine until his beloved wife (Vanessa Redgrave) introduces him to a spirited local singing group led by the youthful and charming Elizabeth (Gemma Arterton). Despite his initial resistance, this unexpected friendship leads to Arthur’s discovery of music that revitalizes his passion for new adventures and reconnects him with the people who matter most.

12 DISASTERS

LION OF THE DESERT

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Starring: Rod Steiger, Anthony Quinn, Oliver Reed, Irene Papas, Raf Vallone, John Gielgud

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Starring: Magda Apanowicz, Ed Quinn, Roark Critchlow, Ryan Grantham

The year is 1929 and dictator Benito Mussolini is still faced with the 20-year long war waged by Bedouin patriots to combat Italian colonization and the establishment of the “Fourth Shore.” Mussolini appoints General Rodolfo Graziani as his sixth Governor to Libya, confident that the eminently accredited soldier can crush the rebellion and restore the dissipated glories of Imperial Rome.

It’s Christmas season in the mountain village of Calvary, but merry and bright have suddenly fled town: There are mass bird deaths. Blood red water running from faucets. Grandmas impaled by humongous flying icicles. And for 18-year-old Jacey (Magda Apanowicz of Continuum), a newly discovered gift has led her and her dad (Ed Quinn of Eureka) to the revelation that a beloved holiday carol may hold the key to a yuletide Mayan apocalypse. Can their desperate search for five golden rings now stop a global cataclysm of tornados, volcanoes and killer twinkle lights?

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WHITE HOUSE REVEALED

SPACE VOYAGES

wwwsmithsonianchannel.com This four part series explores the challenges and opportunities of modern space exploration.

NASA is sizing up a new but familiar challenge: how to transport humans into deep space.

After 30 years spent circling the Earth, NASA is building spacecraft to take astronauts beyond the Moon to an asteroid and eventually Mars. From rocket testers in Mississippi, to capsule builders in Florida, this is the story of the spacecraft and the technicians aiming to follow in the footsteps of their Apollo ancestors.

ERIC CLAPTON: the 1970s Review www.chromedreams.co.uk

This film, from the makers of Eric Clapton - The 1960s Review, follows Clapton’s journey through the seventies, from his immersion in musical collectives such as Delaney & Bonnie & Friends and Derek and the Dominos, through his re-emergence in 1974 as a phenomenally successful solo artist and onwards across a series of critically acclaimed albums and tours in the latter half of the decade which cemented EC’s reputation as not just an extraordinary musician but as a composer of majestic material and a performer of quite startling intensity.

wwwsmithsonianchannel.com It’s the world’s most powerful residence, where decisions affecting millions of Americans are made. But the White House is also home a warm and welcoming refuge for the presidential family. Join us on an insider s tour to meet the people who make the world s most famous house a home. Loyal staff maids, assistants, ushers, valets, butlers, chefs, plumbers, engineers, florists and others who have worked under multiple presidents share unique and personal views on everything from first pets to first family birthday parties, preparations for inauguration, behind-the-scenes views of world-altering events ... even presidential scandals.

ALL THE BOYS LOVE MANDY LANE www.anchorbayent.com

Starring: Whitney Able, Amber Heard, Aaron Himelstein.

Sixteen-year-old Mandy Lane (Amber Heard) has been courted by every available man in her small Texas town to no avail. When the normally reclusive enchantress reluctantly agrees to accompany her new friends on a weekend getaway, the initially irritating adolescent advances made toward her rapidly turn menacing.

As the sun falls behind the hills a volatile mix of drugs, alcohol, and hormones turns explosive. While the festivities rage on, the number of party-goers begins to mysteriously drop one at a time.

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ArtLines C ollection Conversations: Childhood - thru September Collection Conversations is an exhibition series that brings together artworks from the Museum’s permanent collection. Viewers are invited to investigate aesthetic, conceptual, and cultural juxtapositions among artworks that might not otherwise be exhibited together.

This series examines western representations of children and childhood objects from the Eighteenth Century until the present. The media presented is diverse, from Winslow Homer’s illustrations of children and their activities from Harper’s Weekly to Polixeni Papapetrou’s contemporary restaging of Lewis Carroll’s Victorian photographs of costumed children. The selection of artworks demonstrates historical representations of the role of children as well as conceptual approaches that utilize childhood and its objects for other explorations, as in the work of Harold Edgerton, Ruth Bernhard and Suzanne Camp Crosby (photo displayed here). The role of the child within societies has varied greatly through the years. Puritans believed that children are inherently wicked, while Rousseau’s concept of natural moral purity was popularized during the Enlightenment. The Victorian era focused on education 88

for children as well as new reforms on child labor laws, and the early 20th century kindergarten movement celebrated and encouraged imagination and creativity in children’s development.

Aaron Siskind’s Harlem Document thru July 20 The photographs by Aaron Siskind in this exhibition belong to one of the most important visual records of Harlem during the Great Depression. Siskind (19031991) turned to photography around 1930 and joined the Photo League in 1932. In 1936 Siskind founded the League’s Feature Group, which documented New York City, focusing especially on Harlem. Siskind had left the League by 1941 and began to turn to abstraction. In 1981 a collection of fifty-seven photographs from the series were published as a book, along with the Federal Writers’ Project’s oral history of Harlem. Subjects range from intimate domestic interiors to lively street scenes. There are powerful depictions of churchgoers and arresting ones of performers and Harlem’s nightlife, but the images of children are especially moving.

While these photographs vary in tone, one senses not only Siskind’s artistry, but his intense humanity and exquisite sensitivity in representing his subject.

MFA, 255 Beach Dr. N.E., St. Petersburg, 727-8962667; www.fine-arts.org

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Graphicstudio: Uncommon Practice at USF - thru May 18 Graphicstudio: Uncommon Practice at USF chronicles several aesthetic and technical conversations among artists of different generations. Highlighting both technical and conceptual breakthroughs, the exhibition includes seminal works spanning Graphicstudio’s forty-six year history (by Robert Rauschenberg, Jim Rosenquist, Ed Ruscha, Allan McCollum, Louise Bourgeois, Jim Dine, and others) with some of its most recent collaborative endeavors (by Christian Marclay, Mark Dion, Teresita Fernández, Los Carpinteros, and Trenton Doyle Hancock).

Utility and Aesthetics in Ancient Art - thru May 18 Often beautiful in form and adorned with strikingly attractive images, artifacts of the ancient Mediterranean world can be classified in countless different ways. Ancient painted pottery survives in great numbers, but — despite its beauty — receives almost no mention from Greek or Roman authors, who clearly considered ceramics the domain of humble craftsmen rather than of fine artists. While many ancient statues and figurines remain much celebrated for their aesthetic value, their functions should not be ignored.

In this exhibition objects have been grouped together according to certain common features — from images, aesthetics, and individual style to form, utility, and technical details.

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

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ArtLines cont

works by Nicolas Africano, Silvia Levenson, Peter Hora, and Stanislav Libensky among many others.

In the Streets: Photographing Urban Spaces thru July 13 In the Streets: Photographing Urban Spaces explores the many ways in which 20th century photographers responded to the rise of the modern metropolis. Photographs by Bernice Abbott document the rapid changes in the built environment, and works by Andreas Feininger and Walter Rosenblum track the social conditions of urbanity.

Conserved - thru June 2 Featuring posters from the Tibbals Collection, this exhibition examines the life of a circus poster. Printed and posted to announce the coming of the circus, for some posters, a second life began after the circus left town. Fans would pull the colorful advertising from windows and walls, storing them folded or rolled

Beth Lipman: Precarious Possessions - thru Sept 7 The still life has long been used

in painting as a visual metaphor for considerations of materiality, the conspicuous consumption of wealth, and the fleeting nature of life. Beth Lipman uses the vocabulary of the still life, particularly the table setting with its various vessels, foods, and associated objects, in complex sculptures created in clear glass.

Precarious Possessions is an installation of life-sized Victorian furniture recreated in glass sculpture.

Each of the three works, Crib, Cradle, and Sideboard with Blue China represents a particular moment in our lifespan and reminds us of our ties to the objects which define us through societal conventions.

for years before the posters found their way to the Museum. Cleaning, backing and, occasionally restoration have given these lithographs a second life as documentation of circus history.

The Philip and Nancy Kotler Glass Collection - thru June 29 In 2012, collectors Nancy and Philip Kotler made a significant donation of Studio Glass to The Ringling. Studio Glass is produced as a fine art medium. The Kotler Collection is comprised of works by many of the leading glass artists in the American and European traditions. This exhibition will present an overview of the gift and will include 90

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May 23 - July 5

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he materials vary from gold and silver to wool felt, from wood to polymer clay, but the common thread is the hand of the maker. Some of the artists are inspired by ancient materials while others have turned to the latest in 3D printing. All have created pieces which will express your personal style: fun & funky, sophisticated, organic and timeless.

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

FLORIDA MUSEUM of PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS David Hilliard: Intimacies - thru May 18 David Hilliard: Intimacies explores the work of the Boston-based photographer who makes large-format color images of people, interiors, and landscapes. Hilliard’s works probe how we know other individuals and ask important questions about how place, memory, and time affect our interior thoughts. Hilliard is presented

by Yancey Richardson Gallery in New York and Carroll and Sons Art Gallery in Boston.

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 cont An Arts Legacy: George Inness, Jr. at Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art - May 4 - Aug 31

Between 1902 and 1926, artist George Inness, Jr. (1853-1926), and his wife Julia, wintered each year in Tarpon Springs, Florida. The Innesses contributed greatly to the development of art and culture in the city. This exhibition includes 22 paintings and related ephemera, on loan from the Unitarian Universalist Church of Tarpon Springs, the collection of Cici and

Diaz is a Cuban-American photographer who has been photographing professionally since 2000. Diaz is a sought-after photographer for weddings and special events and portraits.

Bates’ exhibit Bodegas North and South, featuring photos of Florida and New England convenience stores taken at

twilight. The Gallery at Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa, FL. Mon - Fri, 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. and most Sats, 9 a.m. – noon. www.CarrollwoodCenter. org

Hyatt Brown through the Museum of Arts and Sciences, Daytona Beach, the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society and John Tarapani.

Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art, 600 E Klosterman Rd., St. Petersburg College: Tarpon Springs Campus, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689. Tues - Sun. www.spcollege.edu/central/museum/

“Cool Clear Water” at Artlofts thru May 31

The new exhibit features works by Artloft Artists, Rebecca Skelton and Joe Walles .

You can feel the flow and ebb of Skelton’s oil paintings depicting the colors and nuances of water. Then enjoy the contrast of the unique black and white photos

by Walles. After, visit with the artists in their working studios. Artlofts Studios (2nd Floor), 10 Fifth St. N., St. Petersburg, FL. 727-391-8908. www.theartlofts.com/

The Gallery at CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER: “ART IN BLACK & WHITE” EXHIBIT - May thru June

“Art in Black & White” is a unique exhibit that features art, photography, sculpture and ceramics using only black, white and shades of gray. Also showcasing work in The Gallery at Carrollwood Cultural Center will be featured photographers Michelle Diaz and Peter Bates. Diaz and Bates’ work will be on display through May.

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Looking Good... www.eye-hole.com/

Eye-Hole

Adjustable Eyeglass Necklace

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he Eye-Hole is the adjustable solution to the age old problem of losing your glasses. They’re both stylish and affordable - so you can have one to match every outfit and every pair of glasses. The permanent collection consists of fifteen styles but limited editions are released each month so check back to the website. So forget the granny eyeglass holders — look cool while being practical with the Eye-Hole.

Primavera Calming Cream www.primaveralife.com/

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he Primavera Calming Face Care line is designed to naturally soothe and strengthen sensitive skin.

Extra-comforting plant ingredients, are hand-selected from Primavera’s community of farm partners to ensure quality, gently calm inflammation and redness, protect skin from external irritants, and rebuild the skin’s natural moisture barrier. They include Chamomile Essential Oil, to relieve skin irritation while quieting the senses, and Borage Seed Oil, rich in Omega-6 essential fatty acids to help regulate hydration and restore elasticity to the skin. Together with organic extracts and oils from Japanese Honeysuckle, Ginger Root, Oat, Licorice, Helichrysum and Centella, these mild but effective ingredients help deliver complete skin serenity to dry, tight, flaky or reactive complexions without chemical fragrances, dyes, preservatives or other ingredients that can cause further irritation.

Products include Calming Cream Cleanser, Calming Moisture Cream and Calming Eye Contour Cream.

A Calming Face Care Starter Kit includes travel sizes of the cleanser, toning lotion, moisture cream and eye contour cream.

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Gaiam’s Natural Weave Scarf

Ultra Chateau Krigler 212

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pritz on Ultra Chateau Krigler 212, a young and fresh reformulation of Krigler’s most famous perfume. Inspired by the Chateau Krigler 12

fragrance worn by iconic beauty Grace Kelly, Ultra Chateau Krigler 212 embodies the vitality and energy of today with a nod to the timeless charisma of a past era. Introduced in 1912, Chateau Krigler 12 was created in Champagne, France, and quickly gained an international cult following for its captivating fragrance that provided a refreshing contrast to the period’s heavier scents. Ultra Chateau Krigler 212 combines top notes of Lily of the Valley, Iris, Magnolia from Borneo and North Florida, Violet, Rose and Aldehyde with a floral heart of Musk, Cassis, Champaca Flowers, Jasmine, Ylang Ylang and Lilac.

Lively and complex, Ultra Chateau Krigler 212 offers a welcome contrast to some of today’s flat, clinical scents.

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30 Minutes to Beauty

with the Facial Bar at Salon Inga Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott Martino

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e all like to be pampered, but most working women and busy moms just can’t find the time to have a luxuriating skin care experience — until now. Esthetic guru Lydia Sarfati has created a wonderful program that solves the problem with “Facial Bar,” which is rapidly catching on across the country.

This very affordable program compacts a face, hair, and hand treatment into as little as 15-30 minutes, by doing some of the treatments simultaneously. It has been adopted locally by Salon Inga in Tampa, which calls its service “30 Minutes to Beauty”.

Salon Inga has an airy location above Michael’s Grill in Carrollwood.

I had the opportunity to try it out recently, and could not believe that only 30 minutes had passed while I experienced a soothing hair treatment, facial cleansing exfoliation, facial lifting mask, hand massage, blow dry, and out the door! It may sound rushed, but it wasn’t at all — it was total relaxation under the deft touch of Salon Inga’s esthetician, Tanja Handing.

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Yours truly enjoying some pampering at the Facial Bar.

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alon Inga is well established, highly regarded, and has been in business for 26 years under the guidance of founder and owner, Inga Handing. It offers a full range of hair, face and nail services, and is proud to be one of the few salons in the area to offer products from Repéchage, a high-end beauty company founded by Lydia Sarfati, and known for its anti-aging seaweed based products.

With Facial Bar, you can customize your treatments according to your time schedule — pick out what appeals to you for the time frame you have available. Services start out as low as $25. So treat yourself! Take a break and go back to work looking and feeling totally refreshed. You can do the Facial Bar and still have time for lunch!

Salon Inga is located at 11722 N. Dale Mabry Hwy, Carrollwood in Tampa, FL. 813963-1313. www.saloninga.com/ For more information on Repéchage, please visit www.repechage.com/

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Tarpon Springs Food Truck Rally - Sat, May 10.

Tampa Bay Food Truck Rally and the Tarpon Springs Merchants Association are hosting a Food Truck Rally on May 10, between 4pm – 9pm. The event will be held in the Historic Downtown, 111 E. Tarpon Avenue, Tarpon Springs. There will be Food Trucks, a DJ and many of the shops in the Historic Downtown will stay open into the evening. This

is a free family event. Additional information and list of participating Food Trucks can be found at www. tbftr.com.

“NIGHT IN THE ISLANDS” ON TARPON SPRINGS SPONGE DOCKS - SatS, June 7, July 12, Aug 2, Sept 6, Oct 4, and Nov 1.

The Tarpon Arts presents Night in the Islands –a free event on the world famous Sponge Docks. En-

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

joy Greek music, dancing, and dining from 6:00-11:00 pm. Enjoy an hour of free Greek dance lessons by the Levendia Dance Troupe from 6-7 pm. Night in the Islands will feature the music of Odyssey, featuring Nick Macris on bouzouki, Emmanuel Gonatos doing vocals and baglamas, and George Boulahanis on keyboard. www.tarponarts.org/

LUNCH & LEARN WITH FINE ARTIST & CRAFTSMAN NICHOLAS TOTH - Wed, June 11

Enjoy Authentic Greek Cuisine with Generous Portions

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

Tarpon Springs

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

Not valid with any other offer.

www.MrSouvlaki.net www.mrsouvlaki.net

www.timsperformanceauto.com

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An award-winning metal artist and acclaimed craftsman, Nicholas Toth’s authentic handcrafted diving helmets and original copper and brass works of art reflect his dedication to exceptional quality and masterful design. He speaks about the techniques of ancient divers to current day technology. His knowledge of the history of diving is informative and engaging.

The evolution of hard hat diving is highlighted with special emphasis on Greek diving helmets.

Nicholas Toth has received the highest honors bestowed upon a craftsman, and was named a National Heritage Fellow by the National Endowment for the Arts and the Florida Folk Heritage Award.

Heritage Museum 11:30 am to 1 pm (Talk begins at 12 noon.) 100 Beekman Lane. 727-942-5605, TarponArts.org LUNCH & LEARN WITH AUTHOR MARISELLA VEIGA: 50 Years Later: An Exile Returns to Cuba - Wed, June 26. Marisella Veiga was born in Havana, Cuba, and went into exile with her family in 1960. Her return to Cuba after 50 years was a transformative experience. She speaks about the trip and how it has affected her. She is a professor of English Literature at Flagler College and is an accomplished author. Her writing has appeared in numerous magazines, newspapers and literary anthologies. Ms. Veiga won The Pushcart Prize in Fiction, and the Canute A. Brodhurst Prize for Best Short Story in The Caribbean Writer. She is a nationally syndicated columnist with Hispanic Link News Service. Recently, she released the spoken word recording, Square Watermelons: Ten Essays on Living with Two Cultures. Heritage Museum 11:30 am to 1 pm (Talk begins at 12 noon.)

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Art & Antiques

by Lori Verderame

by Dr. Lori

Big Bucks for Old Books

ing them repeatedly can also result in drying out your hands as you read these cherished titles. Be gentle.

2. If you are reading your old books solely for enjoyment, take care when turning the pages and when opening the cover. Don’t stress the binding by opening have a lovely, scholarly sister who works as an Engand closing the book too often. Books should be placed lish professor. She, better than anyone else I know, on their side, not upright upon a shelf. certainly is acquainted with and knowledgeable about 3. Use a book stand to host an aging book whenever great books. This level of education and passion is it is convenient. This accessory will help to keep the what makes someone a great book collector. My sisbinding strong, the pages intact, and protect the overall ter is not a book collector by any means but what she structure of the book. Condition of your old book will knows about books can help interested collectors seimpact value, too. lect the best titles for both 4. Books featuring imtheir bedside tables and their agery by important illustrabank accounts. tors hold their value in the Informed book collectors marketplace such as Alice’s know which books to covet Adventures in Wonderland and which ones to condemn. with John Tenniel illustraIf you want a recommendation tions or Treasure Island by about a great book to read, Robert Louis Stevenson with I say that your best bet is to illustrations by N. C. Wyeth. consult with an avid reader.

Other famous illustrators can And if you want to know about impact a vintage book’s valthe market for a particularly ue like Beatrix Potter, E.B. great book, ask an appraiser Lewis, Rockwell Kent, etc.

Books should be placed on their side, not upright upon who is an avid reader. If you 5. Good condition is very a shelf. want to start your own colimportant. If you can, lection of fine literary masterpurchase or retain original pieces that are as interesting wrappers, dust jackets, and slipcases as these accesas they are valuable, my advice is to start reading. sories can increase the value of a vintage book.

In this age of nooks, kindles, and other electronic Great novels that masterfully chronicle a time pereaders, I have found over the years that the best colriod and place in the world such as Margaret Mitchell’s lectors in any field are the ones who know their stuff Gone with the Wind are desirable and valuable. And, inside and out—no matter the format. When it comes books that highlight a particular genre or make an imto books, knowing the field surely describes my sister. pact on the history of literature itself like J. K. Rowlings’ And, if I need the inside scoop on the best titles, she’s Harry Potter series are favorites with collectors, too. my “go to girl” on the topic.

So, before you put old books that are gathering Whether you are interested in displaying or digesting dust into a box and bring them to the a local book barn your collection of old books, the book collector is not a or neighborhood yard sale, find out what your bookthing of the past. Many people are enjoying the process shelves hold in terms of historical content and cash. of seeking out and assembling enviable libraries. Here are some tips to remember when collecting old books: Celebrity Ph.D. antiques appraiser, Dr. Lori hosts 1. Books were made differently in bygone days comantiques appraisal events worldwide listed at pared to the way that they are made today. The pawww.DrLoriV.com/Events/ Dr. Lori is the star apper used in centuries past had a high acid content and praiser on Discovery channel. Visit wood pulp which promotes yellowing over time. These www.DrLoriV.com/ www.Facebook.com/DoctorLori/ pages can easily rip, crease, tear, and discolor. TouchLori Verderame on Google+ or call (888) 431-1010.

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Discover the Beauty

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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

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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 102

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Compiled by Papande Newman

FLORIDA AUTHORS WRITE….

IN DREAMS

FLORIDA IN THE GREAT DEPRESSION:

By Robert Logan www.peppertreepublishing.com

Desperation and Defiance

By Nick Wynne and Joseph Knetsch

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n the mountainous outskirts of Boulder, Colorado a serial killer begins killing people in the same exact manner as four unsolved murders in the area from fortyone years ago. The police suspect a copycat.

But when Jack Corbitt experiences a bizarre phenomenon, he begins to believe the police are dead wrong. During a series of a new life saving cancer treatment, Jack’s brain is somehow able to open a mysterious portal to the past. He is stunned to discover that he is able to communicate with Maggie Roper, a newspaper reporter from forty-one years ago who is investigating the unsolved murders.

The telepathic connections come in the form of dreams after each treatment.

A native of New Jersey, Robert Logan lives in South Florida. A member of the Florida Writers Association, Logan is at work on his novel, Extreme Beliefs.

www.historypress.net

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he financial boom of the 1920s gave Florida citizens a look at prosperity and promise.

By 1926, natural disasters, financial misdeeds and failures to realize those promises created a sense of impending doom and forced entrepreneurs into bankruptcy. With the hurricane of 1928, the boom was over, and coupled with bank failures and numerous farming epidemics, Florida plunged into a depression--two years before the stock market crash of 1929. Journey with noted Florida historians Nick Wynne and Joseph Knetsch as they detail the hardships of the times and the defiance of a state determined to rise above them.

Dr. Joe Knetsch, a historian, has published many books and over two hundred articles on Florida history, including his most recent book, Florida and the Spanish American War. He lives in Tallahassee with his wife, Linda.

Nick Wynne is a retired college professor and the executive director emeritus of the Florida Historical Society. A prolific author, he has published, along with several coauthors and coeditors, more than twenty history books and five novels. He lives with his wife, Debra, in Rockledge.

DAY HIKING SOUTHWEST FLORIDA: A guide to the Best Trail Adventures in Greater Naples and Fort Meyers

By Johnny Molloy www.upf.com

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ohnny Molloy, outdoorsman extraordinaire, shares forty of his favorite “frontcountry” hikes through city, county, and state parks and their surrounding wildlands. Destinations include Caracara Prairie Preserve, home to several endangered species including the Florida black bear and crested caracara; Ding Darling National Wildlife Refuge, a subtropical island oasis for migratory birds; and Wild Turkey Strand Preserve, site of a World War II airfield training base. With a variety of trail lengths and difficulty levels, this guidebook offers many possibilities for all outdoor explorers, from the tourist to the longtime Florida hiker seeking new scenery.

Although not a FL resident, Johnny Molloy has written more than fifty outdoor guide books, including Florida hiking such as: “The Hiking Trails of Florida’s National Forests, Parks, and Preserves”; “Hiking the Florida Trail; Beach and Coastal Camping in Florida”; and “From the Swamp to the Keys.”

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Wanda E. Brunstetter ‘s Woman of Courage

Book Signing at Lifeway Christian Store, Sarasota - Fri, May 23 www.WandaBrunstetter.com

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anda E. Brunstetter, Sarasota’s newest author and one of the founders of the highly popular Amish fiction genre, will sign her latest novel, Woman of Courage, at Lifeway Christian Store, Friday, May 23 from 6-8 p.m.

Brunstetter’s latest inspirational historical is set in 19th century Idaho. In Woman of Courage, Amanda Pearson, a Quaker woman suffering from a broken engagement, leaves her home in New York and travels West to minister to the Nez Perce Indians. Along the way, she encounters many problems, yet she never gives up. Set in 1837, this historical novel has many twists and turns that will take readers from the rugged Rocky Mountains to Oregon Territory and the home of the Spalding Mission, where the Nez Perce Indians were first introduced to Christianity.

Among Brunstetter’s honors are the prestigious

Career Achievement Award for Inspirational Fiction from RT Book Reviews, the 2013 Reviewer’s Choice award from SingleTitles.com, several Retailer’s Choice Awards, the Author of the Year Award in 2011 from Family Fiction, and many of her books have been Picks of the Week at Christian Book Distributors.

The free book signing is open to readers of all ages.

Lifeway Christian Store, Fruitville Road, Sarasota.

Friday, May 23 from 6-8 p.m.

MONTOOTH 3: Red Cross of Gold

By Robert Jay www.montoothbooks.com

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he third book in the Montooth quintet follows the main characters as they finish high school while experiencing the advent of Rock n’ Roll in the mid-Fifties. Off to college, Carty Andersson’s archery skills and outspoken criticism of a professor, leads police to suspect her in a bizarre campus murder. Her friends in The Crew utilize their skills and display unquestioned loyalty as they attempt to save her while discovering and capturing the real killer. Meanwhile, her close friend and high school roommate, Elena Rafferty, joins the forces of Fidel Castro as he begins his quest to take power in Cuba. The infamous Cruz Cruz, teaming with actress-singer Sara Ann Dan, manipulates both sides of the Cuban Revolution as it marches closer to finality. Sally, the erstwhile witch from the initial book, Montooth and the Canfield Witch, exposes ancient family history to show origins of her enormous cache of gold, jewels, and other property.

Smithsonian researches trace it from King Solomon’s mines to the Templar warrior monks in France and Scotland, to Colonial America to the swamps of Florida.

Author Jay includes his signature Montooth fable, this time involving the title character alligator and beehives.

Author Robert Jay has been honored by the FL Writers Assoc., receiving it’s prestigious Royal Palm Literary Award for historical fiction. Jay lives in Florida with his wife, Hildegard. He is also the author of two previous book releases in the Montooth series, “Montooth and the Canfield Witch” and “Montooth 2: Race for the Ryland Ruby.” www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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a b c de f g hi j IMAGES OF AMERICA: D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc.

By Robert A. Musson, MD www.arcadiapublishing.com

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nown as “America’s Oldest Brewery,” D. G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., of Pottsville has been in continuous operation since 1829.

Since its start, Yuengling has been prudently managed by the Yuengling family. Overcoming the 14 dry years of Prohibition, Yuengling persevered due in part to the ingenuity and creativity of its owners and loyalty of its consumers. Yuengling found a niche for itself beginning in the late 1980s. With the introduction of Yuengling Lager and Black & Tan, the brand became a sensation in and around Philadelphia. Popularity of the beverages led to Yuengling being distributed in 14 states, making it the largest American-owned brewery. Through more than 220 historic images, D.G. Yuengling & Son, Inc., tells the story of this legendary American company.

PEOPLE PICTURES: 30 Exercises for Creating Authentic Photographs

By Chris Orwig

www.peachpit.com

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uthor/photographer Chris Orwig offers 30 photographic exercises to renew your passion for capturing the people in your world. This is not a traditional portrait photography book. The goal isn’t flattery, but connection and depth.

Whether you are a student, busy parent, or seasoned pro photographer, these 30 exercises provide an accessible framework for exploration and growth. With step-by-step instructions and using natural light, you will explore everything from street, lifestyle, candid, and environmental shots. The projects are small artistic endeavors meant to change how you see and the pictures that you make. All that’s required is a camera, an intrepid attitude, curiosity, and some imagination.

uv w x yz a b‑c MIXED MARTIAL ARTS ANATOMY: Exercises and Training

THE BOOK OF FIVE RINGS

www.humankinetics.com

www.shambhala.com

rom powerful blows to explosive kicks, Delavier’s Mixed Martial Arts Anatomy takes you inside the action and impact of one of the world’s most popular, grueling, and challenging sports.

Over 230 full-color photos and 120 anatomical illustrations allow you to go inside more than 120 exercises specifically selected for the neuromuscular demands of the sport. You’ll see how muscles interact with surrounding joints and skeletal structures and how variations and sequencing can isolate specific muscles to enhance the full arsenal of combat skills.

long with Sun Tzu’s The Art of War, The Book of Five Rings is considered to be one of the most insightful texts on the subtle arts of confrontation and victory to emerge from Asia. Composed in 1643 by samurai Miyamoto Musashi, The Book of Five Rings analyzes the process of struggle and mastery over conflict that underlies every level of human interaction.

For Musashi, the way of the martial arts was a mastery of the mind rather than simply technical prowess—and it is this path to mastery that is the core teaching in The Book of Five Rings. This is written not only for martial artists but for anyone who wants to apply the timeless principles of this text to their life.

By Miyamoto Musashi, translated by William Scott Wilson

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By Frederic Delavier and Michael Gundill

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PURPLE RAIN: Music On Film

By John Kenneth Muir www.limelighteditions.com Purple Rain: Music on Film explores in detail the behind-the-scenes struggles and triumphs of the film’s making, from the trouble casting a female lead to star opposite Prince, to concerns that the movie’s urban vibe and sound wouldn’t play in Peoria.

Featuring extensive new interviews with the film’s director, producer, and assistant editor, Purple Rain reveals a 1980s cult-classic as you’ve never seen, heard or experienced it before. Let’s go crazy...

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ONE TANK TRIPS

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

(888-663-8265)

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GIANTS IN THE LAND: Books One and Two Show both books

By Clark Rich Burbidge

www.giantsinthelandbook.com

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he giants’ presence gives the townspeople a special confidence about life. But they have become much more dependent on the giants than they realize. One morning the people discover the giants have mysteriously disappeared. Fear and panic grip the town. Someone must find them and bring them back! Thomas, a young farmer, volunteers and sets out alone on a great journey of danger and discovery. Thomas learns the true nature of giants and what it means for him and his people. Join Thomas in his timeless rite of passage and learn what it means to become something more than you have been, why it is necessary in life, and how to do it.

200 BEST CANNED FISH & SEAFOOD RECIPES

by Susan Sampson www.robertrose.ca

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anned seafood is ready when you are. It’s a quick alternative to fast food and it’s generally lean, healthful and convenient. A lot of cans are also interc h a n g e a - ble, so you can substitute what you have on hand which is something you can’t do with fresh seafood.

And the best part is that you need look no further than your kitchen cupboard for the beginnings of a fantastic dish.

LET’S EAT OUT: With Celiac/Coeliac & Food Allergies! A Timeless Reference for Special Diets

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eautifully illustrated and pleasing to both adults and children alike, the books will delight your sense of fun and creative learning!

HELLO LITTLE OWL Little Owl is welcomed fondly on the day she is born. During her first day, she is lovingly told of many important things she will need to know to get along in her new world.

HELLO LITTLE OWL: I Am Hermit Crab!

Little Owl has learned to fly, so macho little Butterfly taunts her to test her wings. Reluctantly, she and her friend, Cat, follow Butterfly on what turns out to be along and forgettable adventure to the beach

Chipped Munk

www.allergyfreepassport.com his innovative book, endorsed by associations across the globe, offers readers: proven cuisine-specific restaurant choices for safe eating anywhere; Understanding of the hidden presences of ten common food allergens; 7 international cuisines with over 175 menu items with questions to ask; Hundreds of ingredients, preparation check lists and hidden allergens; Guidelines for snacks, beverages, airlines, hotels, cruises and travel.

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www.hellolittleowl.com

HELLO LITTLE OWL:

By Kim Koeller & Robert La France

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Written and Illustrated

by Mary Uihlein

Little Owl finds out that her Chipmunk friend, Munk, is upset about something that is missing. Little Owl and her friends try to solve the mystery and end up learning about honesty, trust, and true friendship.

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CAPT. BILL MILLER DEBUTS ON WORLD FISHING NETWORK Popular Florida Fishing Pro Hosts “Fishing with Bill Miller”

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iller’s new show, “Fishing with Bill Miller,” is on World Fishing Network – the only fishing network solely dedicated to the angling lifestyle. Show times are Sundays at 8:30 a.m. and 5:30 pm, Thursday’s 1 p.m. and 10 p.m. and Friday’s 3 a.m.

“I am excited to share my 40plus years of saltwater angling experience with a national and international audience,” Miller said.

“My primary area of focus is Florida, with an emphasis on the West Coast, because this vibrant and diverse fishery offers something for anglers of all skill and experience levels. I look forward to showing my viewers the key elements of sport fishing, while helping them learn to maximize each outing.”

An established angling authority, Miller brings a multimedia pedigree anchored by 16 years as host of the popular cable TV show, “Hooked on Fishing.” Miller’s also a weekly columnist for the Tampa Tribune/TBO. com, a featured celebrity writer for various special event publications and the author of FISH SMART – CATCH MORE! – a user-friendly instructional book with 107 tips for better Florida fishing.

All of this, plus a rich tradition of charter and tournament fishing make Capt. Bill Miller an excellent addition to the WFN family.

With over 30 exclusive series, WFN offers more fishing programs than any other TV channel. This diverse programming includes instruction, tips, travel, tournaments,

food, boating and outdoor lifestyle with some of the most recognized personalities in the angling community.

WFN and WFN HD are available to more than 50 million cable, satellite and telecommunications households throughout the United States, Canada and the Caribbean.

Anchored by one of the top fishing websites – WorldFishingNetwork. com – WFN’s multimedia platforms also include apps and mobile portals for the iPhone, iPad and Android, enabling anglers to take WFN wherever they go.

“This is a great fit, because my intention is to help my viewers learn how to catch more fish while entertaining them with great action,” Miller said. “This is not a watch-me-fish show. I will provide viewers with the inside pro tips on how to catch fish so they can enjoy the same

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experiences that I’ll share through FWBM. I like to teach and viewers will quickly see that this show delivers a lot of precise instruction.”

A committed conservationist who’s equally engaging to accomplished anglers and novices alike, Miller’s simple objective is to encourage environmental stewardship by fostering appreciation for the natural resources upon which the sport of fishing depends.

“Fishing is an activity that practically everyone can enjoy and the more you understand the basics, the better equipped you will be to advance your performance and develop your own style,” Miller said.

“My new WFN show will allow me to share what I’ve learned about this incredibly rewarding sport and, in doing so, encourage others to participate and perpetuate the tradition.”

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The “I Wanna Go There!� Travel Page

HAVASU FALLS

Havasupai Reservation, Grand Canyon National Park, Coconino County www.nps.gov/grca/planyourvisit/havasupai.htm Havasupai means people of the blue-green waters. The spectacular waterfalls and isolated community within the Havasupai Indian Reservation attract thousands of visitors each year. The Havasupai are intimately connected to the water and the land. This blue- green water is sacred to the Havasupai. It flows not only across the land, but also through each tribal member. When you enter their land, you enter their home, their place of origin.

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