Accent On Tampa Bay #236 Jan/Feb 2018

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

1

2

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Accent On Tampa Bay

AccentOnTampaBay.com

Vol. 32, Issue 236 Jan - Feb, 2018 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Barbara McGovern Graphic Designers Missy Lynn Contributors Bridget Burke Vicki Kolb Michael Martino Barbara McGovern Marty Peters Deborah Quigley Jenna Rimensnyder JoAnn Ryan Photographer Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photo courtesy of: Feld Productions PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

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

e-mail AccentMagazine@aol.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

3

LOCAL FOCUS EVENTS JANUARY Wed, Jan 10

COFFEE TALK W/NAN COLTON: ALL DRESSED UP. 10 - 11 am, Free for MFA Members/Included in admission to MFA, Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive. NE, St. Petersburg.

Ms. Colton portrays the fictitious Assistant Costume Designer Sue Anne Puckett on the set of a new film. 727.894.4638 www.mfastpete.org RUTH ECKERD HALL IS SEMINOLE HARD ROCK TAMPA’S JANUARY 2018 BENEFICIARY - thru the end of January. Seminole Hard Rock Tampa Will Sell Customized Bracelets featuring the Ruth Eckerd Hall logo With 100% Of Proceeds To Be Donated To Ruth Eckerd Hall’s Arts Education Program. Each bracelet is priced at $5. www.rutheckerdhall.net

Thurs, Jan 11

MERCE BUSINESS EXPO. 4:30 - 6 pm, Free to the public, TradeWinds Island Grand Resort 5500 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. Dozens of local businesses offering products and services you need for your business and your home. Spin the prize wheel, sample delicious food and more. Info@ TampaBayBeaches.com 727.360.6957 www. facebook.com/events/725013594363637

Fri, Jan 12

VOODOO CHEF CELEBRITY COOK OFF THE REMATCH! Join the VooDoo Chef for an experience filled with great food & drinks. You never know who might show up to join Chef Erik Youngs as he prepares his unique VooDoo-fied dishes for all to sample. The VooDoo Chef Celebrity Cook Off - The Rematch will put Hillsborough County Public Schools Superintendent Jeff Eakins and his team mate JP Peterson, winners of the first VooDoo Chef Celebrity Cook Off, to the test. The VooDoo Chef Celebrity Cook Off with have local “Rock Stars”

TAMPA BAY BEACHES CHAMBER OF COM-

Continued

Under the Big Top

by Tampa Greyhound

Feb 14 - Mar 4

C

irque du Soleil’s VOLTA, was written and directed by Bastien Alexandre and with Jean Guibert as the director of creation. International electronic group M83 as composer and musical director, brings his space-age future pop sound to the Cirque du Soleil stage for the first time ever. The show will be presented under the Big Top at the Tampa Greyhound Track VOLTA tells a spellbinding story about the freedom to choose and the thrill of blazing your own trail. Inspired in part by the adventurous spirit that fuels the culture of action sports, the show weaves the adrenaline rush of acrobatics into a visually striking world driven by a stirring melodic score.

WAZ, a popular gameshow host, has lost touch with his inner self in the pursuit of fame, pulling others in the trap of instant glory. But as doubt sets in, WAZ is enlightened by childhood memories as he encounters “free spirits” who open doors to his inner soul he has long kept shut. On his high-voltage search for meaning, will WAZ find the courage to relinquish his fame, reconnect with his true self, and shine bright?

www.cirquedusoleil.com/volta 4

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

5

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

face off in a Mystery Basket Competition putting their cooking skills to the test. Audience members vote for their favorite. A portion of the proceeds support the VooDoo Chef Foundation - Providing meal to those in need and providing financial support to those seeking an education in the Foodservice/Hospitality Industry. Epicurean Theatre, 1207 S Howard Ave, Tampa. (813) 510-9047.

Clay Center of St. Petersburg, MGA Studios and the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum. Download the map and list of participants to plan an art evening at www.stpeteartsalliance. org

Sat, Jan 13

ST. PETERSBURG SECOND SATURDAY ARTWALK. The Waterfront Arts District, Central Arts District, EDGE District, Grand Central District, and the Warehouse Arts District become one arts destination for the St. Petersburg Second Saturday ArtWalk. Explore St. Petersburg’s five arts districts using free trolleys. 40 artists’ studios and galleries open their doors from 5-9 p.m. If you don’t wish to ride of the trolley, free parking can be found on 1st Ave N and 1st Ave S from 15th St. to 30th St., The

COCKTAILS & COUTURE AT THE RITZ YBOR. Features three themed rooms each featuring their own craft cocktail menus. Fashion Shows will take place in the Main Theater at 8pm and 10pm featuring designers. Live entertainment will be provided by singers, and dance troupes with music by Elias Théroux. 1503 East 7th Ave, Ybor City. www.cocktailsxcouture.com CELEBRITY AUTO FESTIVAL. 3rd annual Celebrity Auto Festival. Bring a vehicle to show or just the family for a Saturday outing. Car clubs and groups have plenty of space to park together and if you want your vehicle to be judged we just ask for a donation and you’re in. CAF ia a FREE Car Show held to generate donations to support the Shriner’s Hospital for Children and Racing 4 Vets. Big Top Flea Market is the venue, and there is plenty of FREE parking, NO Admission Fees, offering shopping and food. See all kinds vehicles from classic to modern muscle cars, TV & Movie tribute cars, Hot Rods and Custom vehicles. This event is open to all makes and models, motorcycles, trucks, exotics and especially TV & Movie vehicles of all types. 813-352-0039. www.edsswapmeet.com/ GASPARILLA BALL ABOARD THE AMERICAN VICTORY SHIP. Grog, Food & Music by local favorite The Black Honkeys. VIPs Board at 6 pm & Enjoy Valet Parking, Live Music, Open Bar & Food until 7 pm (limited number of VIP tickets available) Stowaways Board at 7 PM. Cash Bar 7 to 11 PM. Gasparilla or Cocktail Attire. Proceeds from this Continued on page 10

6

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

7

e h T n een O

S

e n e c s

S P A SN

sa

GEORGETTE’S

29th Annual Fashion Show

G

eorgette’s Boutique held their Holiday Fashion age a Cover Show recently at the Hilton Downtown Tampa. The show benefited St. Joseph’s Women’s Hospital’s newborn resuscitation room.

Georgette’s runway show and luncheon featured celebrity models, performers, raffles, silent and live auctions. The event was emceed by Fox 13’s Kelly Ring. Countless amounts of beautiful clothes made their way down the runway worn by equally beautiful local celebrities and professional models.

The fashion display was interspersed by dancers in colorful costumes performing to upbeat tunes and holiday music. The event usually draws around 700 guests, and it looked like the attendance number didn’t disappoint this year.

At the end of the show all the modeled outfits were for sale, along with many accessories and some holiday items. y Melis

tos b nd pho

Kelly Ring

8

e!

Even Elvis made an appearanc

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

For more information about St. Joseph’s Hospitals Foundation, please visit sjhfoundation.org Georgette’s is located at 141 S. Dale Mabry, Tampa, 813-254-1141. georgettesfashions.com

Georgette and her crew receive sustained applause for a show well done.

Santa finds out who was naughty or nice this year!

The celebrity models take a final walk down the runway. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

9

LOCAL FOCUS

Cont

event benefit the charities supported by the Rotary Club of Tampa Foundation.

CARS, COFFEE, AND KARTING. Sat, Jan 13 at 8am.

The first 100 show cars receive a free membership to the go kart track, 1 free race, 1 free Kahwa coffee, and a free pastry. All varieties of cars, jeeps, trucks, and motorcycles are welcome and wanted. Tampa Bay Grand Prix, 3404 Cragmont Dr, Tampa, FL (813) 341-6300.

SKYWATCH. 6:30 - 9:30 pm, Free, MOSI (Museum of Science & Industry) Parking Lot, 4801 E Fowler Ave., Tampa. Enjoy an evening of space exploration through MOSI’s telescopes.

813.987.6000 www.mosi.org

rated by a couple post-race parties, free concert and a beach bonfire. www.stpetebeachclassic.com/race-info

Jan 13-14

ST. PETE BEACH CLASSIC WEEKEND RACE. Times vary, Registration fees vary, Sirata Beach Resort, 5300 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach. Several Kids Dashes (50 to 300 yards), a 10K, 5K, 3.8 Mile Beach Fun Run and a Half Marathon sepa-

TREASURE ISLAND KITE FESTIVAL. 10 am - 5 pm, Free, Public Beach at 104th Ave., Treasure Island. Be amazed by talented kite flyers from all over the U.S. Representatives from Revolution Kites and Prism Kites will be giving flying demonstrations and allowing people a chance to learn how to fly. www. easternleague.net

Jan 13-20

WRITERS IN PARADISE: EVENING READING SERIES. Sun - Fri 7 pm/Sat 8 pm, Free, Eckerd College, Miller Auditorium, 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg. Visiting professional poets and authors, including Tim Dorsey and Laura Lippman, give evening readings. events@eckerd.edu 727.864.7979. www. eckerd.edu/news/events 2ND ANNUAL TEEN TAKEOVER: DAY OF SERVICE. This is a great oppurtunity for your teeneagers to come out and learn about giving back as they serve those who are are less fortunate. There will be two days for your teen to have an opprtunity to serve, Jan 13 and 20.

They can either server all day or Continued

10

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

in shifts, the prep shift and the service shift. In the Prep shift the teens will prep and cook menu items, pack and bag Survival Kits for the homeless. In the Service shift the teens will serve the homeless at the respective location, hand out survival kits, and clean the area. Salvation Army, 1603 North Florida Avenue, Tampa. 12:00 Noon to 6:30 PM. Free.

813-530-5444. www.givehopetoall.org/

Sun, Jan 14

FUNDRAISER OBSTACLE CHALLENGE. HorsePower for Kids & Animal Sanctuary, 10 AM - 3 PM. $25 per rider/horse, $30 per rider/horse & Lunch. All riders 17 yrs or younger must wear helmets, and must provide proof of negative coggins/bring your own horse. HorsePower for Kids & Animal Sanctuary, 8005 South Race Track Rd., Tampa, FL. 813-600-0752

ELEANOR ROOSEVELT: THE POWER OF WORDS - 2 pm. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine Street, Tarpon Springs. In this living history presentation, audiences will gain a glimpse into Eleanor Roosevelt’s life and hear the heartfelt story of one of the 20th century’s most remarkable women. 727.942.5605. www.tarponarts.org PAINTING WITH A TWIST - 1-3 pm. Painting with a Twist Studio, 2527 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Invite your friends, sip your favorite beverage and enjoy step-by-step instruction with our experienced and enthusiastic local artists.

Benefits St. Petersburg Audubon Society. www. paintingwithatwist.com/studio/stpetersburg/ event/1271949/ Continued

HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

L

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

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

11

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

Mon, Jan 15

MLK NATIONAL PARADE & FAMILY FUN DAY. 11 am, Free, Parade starts at the St. Pete Pier at 11 a.m. and ends at 16th St. S, across from Tropicana Field. Following the parade, enjoy a Family Fun Day at Tropicana Field featuring a kids’ zone, entertainment, an education drive, day of service programs and more from 2:30 - 8 pm. www.visitstpeteclearwater.com/events-calendar/mlk-national-parade-family-fun-day/3487 12th ANNUAL TASTE OF SAFETY HARBOR. 5:30 pm. $35 advance, $40 day of. Safety Harbor Resort and Spa, 105 N Bayshore Dr., Safety Harbor. Sample some amazing cuisine from Safety Harbors finest restaurants. Live entertainment, 50/50 and raffles. www.safetyharborchamber.com

freshing sangria or cocktail of your choice, while the Opera Tampa singers entertain with beautiful Spanish melodies. 1010 North W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa. www.operatampa.org

Fri, Jan 19

DON CESAR 90TH ANNIVERSARY. Since January 16, 1928, The Don CeSar has played host to the world’ s elite, stars of the silver screen, renowned authors and U.S. presidents such as F. Scott Fitzgerald, Ernest Hemingway, Franklin D. Roosevelt and Al Capone. The hotel has starred in feature films including Robert De Niro’s “Once Upon a Time in America” and “Forever Mine” starring Ray Liotta. The Don CeSar was named to the National Register of Historic Places in 1975 and was a founding member of the Historic Hotels of America in 1989.

On Friday, January 19, The Don CeSar presents its 90th Anniversary Gala, an iconic celebration of history and community, 90 years in the making. The soirée, taking place in the hotel’s King Charles Ballroom from 7-11 p.m., will feature food, drinks and entertainment exploring The Don CeSar’s storied history throughout the decades.

Tickets to the black-tie gala include an open bar, hors d’oeuvres from Executive Chef Mike Molloy and music from Z Street Speakeasy Band. www. don90thgala.eventbrite.com

Wed, Jan 17

JAPANESE FLORAL ARRANGEMENTS. 10 am, $45 Members/$55 Non-members, The Club at Treasure Island, 400 Treasure Island Causeway, Treasure Island. Ronell Douglass, Sub-Grandmaster of the Ohara School of Ikebana will delmonstrate Japanese floral arrangements. Lunch is included and will be followed by an auction of gift baskets. Register: 727.729.9445 or www.ikebanastpetersburg.com OPERA TAMPA LEAGUE’S WONDROUS WEDNESDAY - 5:30 pm, $35 Members/$40 Nonmembers, Riverwalk Tent, Straz Center for the Performing Arts. Unwind with friends at this cocktail reception to kick off the 2018 opera season.

Munch on savory Spanish tapas and sip on a re12

Jan 19-21

GEM, JEWELRY AND BEAD SHOW. 10 am – 5 pm. $5. The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N, St. Petersburg. See all that glitters as dealers from across the U.S. present some of the finest gem, jewelry and bead collections for sale. www.stpete. org/coliseum

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

13

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

Sat, Jan 20

CHILDREN’S GASPARILLA EXTRAVAGANZA. Parade and Fireworks. 11 am – 7:30 pm. Free though bleacher seating is available. Bayshore Blvd., Tampa. This family friendly event is alcohol free. Vendors and activities for the kids with the annual pirate parade and finishing off the day with a giant fireworks display over Tampa Bay. www.gasparillapiratefest.com

and cocktails from local breweries and distilleries.

Local restaurants will be serving up bacon, and more bacon. Live entertainment all day. Benefiting Pet Pal Animal Shelter. www.stpetebeerandbacon.com

LARGO WINTERFEST. 11 am - 5 pm, Free admission, Largo High School, 410 Missouri Ave., Largo. Student battle of the bands, chili cook-off, silent student art auction, carnival games, food trucks, bounce houses, free games & kids activities. Proceeds benefit the Largo High PTSA. www. facebook.com/events/367383900368982 ST. PETE BEER & BACON. 1 – 6 pm. General admission $15, with drink sampling $35+. Kids 10 and under free. Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Sample over 80 craft brews

14

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

THIRD SATURDAY ART GULFPORT & GALLERY WALK. 6 - 10 pm, Free, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. The streets are lined with artisans, entertainment and gourmet goodies.

Shops, galleries and restaurants open late. www.visitgulfportflorida.com TWEED RIDE 2018. 2 – 8 pm. $35 Non-member, $25 member, 16 and under free. St. Pete Shuffleboard Club, 599 Mirror Lake Dr. N, St. Petersburg. Huzza!

The afternoon begins with tea, scones and a bit of croquet, followed by the annual Tweed Ride and then a vintage after party with food trucks and Cycle Brewing for purchase. Benefiting the renovation of the St. Petersburg Shuffleboard Club. www.facebook.com/stpeteshuffle

area.craft-festival SARASOTA SEAFOOD AND MUSIC FESTIVAL

dors, live music and arts & crafts vendors. Family friendly event. www.paragonartevents.com

Jan 20 & Feb 10

10 am – 6 pm. Free, VIP $130. Gulfstream and Main, Sarasota. Array of seafood ven-

2018 SHOREBIRD CLASSES. 7:45 - 11:30 am, $15 Each, Ft. De Soto County Park at the North Beach parking lot, in the NW corner. Shorebird specialists John and Nancy Ogden will teach you how to identify the birds wintering on Pinellas Continued

FOURTH ANNUAL ANTIQUES EVALUATION FAIR. 10:30 am - 3 pm, $5 per item/ three for $12, St. Petersburg Main Library, 3745 Ninth Ave. N, St. Petersburg. Dealers will evaluating items such as toys, dolls, books, documents, jewelry, glassware, china, Asian items, cameras, military memorabilia (no guns) and musical instruments. No furniture.

727.893.7724

Jan 20-21

COREY AREA CRAFT FESTIVAL. 10 am - 5 pm, Free, Corey Avenue, St. Pete Beach.

A variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, clothing and much more, all handmade in America, will be on display with an expansive Green Market. www.artfestival.com/ festivals/st-pete-beach-corey.

petergillisinsurance.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

15

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

beaches. Whether you’re a new birder or a seasoned expert, these classes will help you separate the peeps from the plovers. www.stpeteaudubon.org

Sun, Jan 21

A BRIEF HISTORY OF SAFETY HARBOR. 2 pm, Free, Heritage Village, 11909 125th St N, Largo. Safety Harbor celebrated its Centennial in 2017, but its history stretches back to the time of the Tocobaga. Join Warren Firchein and Laura Kepner,

co-authors of “A Brief History of Safety Harbor, Florida”, to discover truths hidden in this special city’s past. 727.582.2123 www.pinellascounty.org/ Heritage

Mon, Jan 22

TAMPA BAY SENIOR EXPO. 10 am – 3 pm. Free. The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave. N, St. Petersburg. A day of seminars, health screenings, investments, and travel. www.stpete.org/ coliseum

BEER, BOURBON AND BBQ FESTIVAL BAND COMPETITION - starting Jan 22.

Bringing the best of Bourbons and Beer and featuring various BBQ choices, ‘Beer, Bourbon and BBQ’ will come to life through this one of a kind experience.

Local and regional bands are invited to upload videos through 107.3 “The Eagle” and be selected for a prize package worth $1500 and a chance to play on the MainStage with The Black Honkey’s and The Greg Billings Band at Curtis Hixon Park.

Contest will begin on Jan 22 and videos can be uploaded through Feb 4. Voting will begin on Feb 5 and run through Feb 11. The winner will be announced live on the air Feb12. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N Ashley Dr., Tampa, FL 33602. Bands can submit through the Eagle website at www.1073theeagle.com

Tues, Jan 23

THE MUSIC OF STAR WARS. 10:30 - 11:30 am, $15, Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive. NE, St. Petersburg. Michael Francis, The Florida Orchestra’s Music Director and renowned conductor, explores the iconic music of the Star Wars films. 727.894.4638. www. mfastpete.org 16

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Thurs, Jan 25

SENIORS HEALTH FAIR. Senior citizens and Baby Boomers are invited to attend a health and wellness event that is designed to show that smart living equals better living. The health fair will take place at the Magnolia Auditorium in Five Towns, a 55+ Retirement Condo Community. Compassionate Care Clinic of Pinellas will be on hand to answer questions of the public. Participants will be able to have health screenings, see demonstrations of products and have fun. The event will feature natural products for the home and people’s health and products that are geared for the elderly. The health fair runs from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and is open to Five Towns residents and nonresidents. No entrance fee. 727512-3017.

NEW BALL HOCKEY RINK & NHL ALL STAR GAME AND COMPETITIONS. Friday, Jan. 26 - 3:00 p.m. As a legacy to the 2018 Honda NHL All-Star festivities, the National Hockey League (NHL), Tampa Bay Lightning, and Lightning Foundation will host a ceremonial puck drop to open a brand new ball hockey rink at a local Boys & Girls Club.

The event will include formal remarks. Beginning at 2:15 p.m., local youth will participate in an

educational program with the Hillsborough County Sherriff’s Office, “Full Strength: Uniting Communities through Hockey.”

At Jeff and Penny Vinik Family Boys & Girls Club at Winston Park, 7605 Destin Drive, Tampa, FL 33619 7 pm Saturday skills competition, 3 pm Sunday’s game.

Amalie Arena, Channelside Dr., Tampa. National hockey team members from across the country come to compete in this fun Continued

Jan 26-28

TAMPA BAY HOME SHOW. The Tampa Bay Home Show is your opportunity to see, learn about and buy the latest home products and services from more than 600 exhibits under one roof. Discover the newest design ideas and hottest trends for your home, furniture, garden, and more. The Tampa Bay Home Show is your source for everything you need for your homeinside and out. Show up early for daily giveaways and register to win a variety of promotions at individual booths as well as advice that could be exactly what you need to know to more forward with your next project. First 1000 people each day receive a free household item. www.tampabayhomeshows.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

17

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

and exciting show of skill. Sunday’s game pits top players from across the league in this friendly game. www.nhl.com

Sat, Jan 27

GASPARILLA INVASION. Annual tradition in which the Pirate ship the Jose Gaspar takes on the city of Tampa with a brigade of thousands in the waters of Tampa Bay docking at the convention center after which the Parade of Pirates takes to the streets with the Krewes and their elaborate floats. 11 am – 5:30 pm. Bayshore Blvd. and throughout downtown Tampa. www.gasparillapiratefest.com ST PETE COFFEE TOUR. Locations vary. Visit several local coffee shops and sample their newest and most exciting coffee offerings while learning a little bit about coffee and meeting new friends. 9 am, $30. www.stpetecoffeetour.com

Tues, Jan 30

LUNCH & LEARN: ODD SCOTLAND. Join travel writer Nancy Lyon on a tour of Caledonia’s quirkiest, from the renegade Scottish Borders, the Gaelic Western Isles, Viking Caithness, Orkney and the Shetland Islands. Includes box lunch and beverage. 11:30 am, $18 Members/$20 Non-members, Heritage Museum, 100 Beekman Ln., Tarpon Springs. www.tarponarts.org

Wed, Jan 31

AUTHOR TIM DORSEY - LIVE AND IN-PERSON. Meet New York Times bestselling author Tim Dorsey and get a copy of his new book The Pope of Palm Beach. Refreshments provided courtesy of the Friends of the St. Pete Beach Library. 6:30 7:30, Free, St. Pete Beach Public Library, 365 73rd Ave., St. Pete Beach. 727.363.9238 www.spblibrary.com/events

FEBRUARY 2-4

WINE WEEKEND ST. PETE 2018 TO BENEFIT THE MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS.

KEYBOARD EXTRAVAGANZA. Performances by PAGBCC choir director and organist, Dale Williams, assistant organist, Larry Farr and Dale Williams, accompanist for the Tampa Oratorio Singers, adjunct professor at the University of Tampa and keyboardist with the Florida Orchestra. 4 pm, $10, Pass-A-Grille Beach Community Church, 107 16th Ave., St. Pete Beach. 727.360.5508 www.pagchurch.org 18

Some of the world’s stellar wines will flow and be auctioned during Wine Weekend St. Pete 2018 on Sat, Feb 3, under the tent on the lawn of the Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg. This year’s theme is “Be Seduced,” reflecting the opulence of the reign of Louis XV of France-a pinnacle of art, architecture, and lavish parties. Once-in-a-lifetime trips and experiences and artistic jewelry and precious objects will take this Wine Weekend to an entirely new level. The wine-tasting/auction preview, “Tour de France,” will be followed by the auction. The day concludes with the Century of Light Party. The historic Maison Louis Latour, located in

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

19

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

Burgundy, France, is the guest vintner. This is the first time the winery has been featured at a charity event in the Tampa Bay area. Since its founding in 1797, Maison Louis Latour has been one of France’s treasures. The weekend begins Fri, Feb 2, in the Museum with “Fêtes à Versailles” for sponsors and VIPs, bringing back the masked balls of Louis XV and the Palace of Versailles.

Award-winning chefs will prepare a five-star dinner of French cuisine.

The International Wine Auction follows on Sat, Feb 3. Russell Rhodes will be the emcee and Jeffrey Burchard, Tom DuPont, and Elizabeth Flower the auctioneers. Fine wines, hors d’oeuvres, and music will combine for the after-party. The weekend concludes with “Le Champagne Brunch” on Sun, Feb 4, in the MFA’s Marly Room. A wide variety of champagne, international culinary delights, and live music will be featured.

All proceeds from the weekend benefit The Stuart Society and the MFA. 727.619.4631. www.facebook.com/WineWeekendStPete

Fri, Feb 3

FIRST FRIDAY ST. PETE. Monthly street party with music, food and beverages for purchase. Proceeds benefit Breakfast Optimists Club. 5:30 - 10 pm, Free, Central Ave., between 2nd & 3rd Streets, St. Petersburg. www.firstfridaystpete.com

in activities for you, your pet and your children.

PetFest 2018 will feature a Puppy Bowl Adoption Arena filled with HSP’s adoptable dogs, along with other rescue groups and organizations eager to match homeless pets with loving families. With over 50 vendors expected, plan to shop for both pet and human merchandise, explore local service vendors, and visit the Kids Zone. Lure Coursing will be on hand for your dogs to run the course and HSP’s Pet Clinic team can check your pets microchip. Dogs can also have fun in the Pup-lympics Arena facilitated by HSP’s Behavior Department.

Contests planned at 10:30 am including the Best Fan Pet Costume Contest and a Receiver Retriever Challenge where your dog gets to catch a plush stuffed football tossed out by NFL Defensive End and Super Bowl winner Rodney Bailey. Joining Bailey on the guest judge’s panel will also be Seth Kushner, afternoon producer on Drew Garabo Live on 102.5 FM The Bone. You can make a difference in human lives at the One Blood Bus plus additional activities will include demonstrations, interactive vendors and photo opportunities printed onsite. Chase Pulido, from Hot 101.5 FM will be this years’ MC to keep the pawty going all day.

PET PAL PUP CRAWL.

GULFPORT FIRST FRIDAY ART & GALLERY WALK. 6 - 10 pm, Free, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. The streets are lined with artisans, entertainment and gourmet goodies. Shops, galleries and restaurants open late. www.visitgulfportflorida.com LOCALTOPIA: A CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS LOCAL. St. Pete’s largest “Community Celebration of All Things Local” showcasing over 200 of our city’s favorite independent businesses and community organizations. Family-friendly. 10 am - 5 pm, Free, Williams Park 330 2nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg. www.localtopia.com PET FEST 2018 TAILGATE PAWTY & PUPPY BOWL ADOPTION EVENT. 9am-1pm at 200 Carillon Parkway (Catalina Marketing), St. Petersburg.

Guests will get the chance to visit adoptable pets, shop vendors, see demonstrations and engage 20

Price per human is $25 (dogs crawl for free) and includes participation in the Pup Crawl for you and your pooch(s), Pup Crawl Swag, raffle tickets for items at every stop, Doggie Biscuit Bars at every stop with Free treats, 50/50 Raffle, and drink specials (cash bar) at stops along the crawl. Proceeds benefit Pet Pal Animal Shelter.

PUP STOP #1: 4pm-4:40PM: Pinellas Ale Works Doggie Biscuit Bar by Woof Gang Bakery

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued

www.FergsSportsBar.com/

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

21

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

St. Petersburg PUP STOP #2: 4:50pm-5:30pm Cage Brewing Doggie Biscuit Bar by TBA PUP STOP #3: 5:40pm-6:20pm Swah-rey & PUP CAKES! PUP STOP #4: 6:30:pm-7:10pm Right Around the Corner Doggie Biscuit Bar by That Dog Ice Cream PUP STOP #5: 7:20pm-8:00pm 3 Daughters Brewing Doggie Biscuit Bar by Pet Food Warehouse.

4:00 pm-8:00 pm. Pinellas Ale Works, 1962 1st Ave S, Saint Petersburg, FL. www.petpalanimalshelter.com/event/pupcrawl/ HAVE A HEART TEA PARTY AND FASHION SHOW. Girls day out. Event features a gourmet lunch ­ — tea time sandwiches and scones plus your choice of grilled salmon on field greens, Caesar salad with grilled shrimp or strawberry pecan salad with grilled chicken — as well as a live fashion show courtesy of Cassi & Co. and friends., raffle baskets, live auction and a fancy hat contest.

To benefit Eckerd Connects Raising Hope. 11:30 AM - 2:30 PM. 727-461-2990. Clearwater Yacht Club, 830 Bayway Blvd., Clearwater, FL. (727) 235-0970. www.give.eckerd.org/haveaheart

A gigantic, illuminated Ferris wheel and an iconic rock-and-roll legend are two new attractions highlighting the fourth annual Bradenton Area River Regatta, when the FREE all-day event returns to the shores of the Manatee River. Featuring the speed and power of high-performance watercraft racing, and highly acclaimed musical performances and family-fun entertainment. Chuck Negron, a founding member of legendary Three Dog Night, has energized audiences for more than five decades with his far-ranging vocals, unique humor and brilliant storytelling. Other featured acts include top tribute bands for country music superstar Tim McGraw (Palmetto Main Stage) and the iconic Earth, Wind & Fire (Bradenton). www.bradentonarearegatta.com

Feb 3 - 4

2COOL ART SHOW.

4th ANNUAL BRADENTON AREA RIVER REGATTA.

At the Gulfport Casino. This indoor show may be relatively small in size with just 36 artists, but Continued

22

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

23

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

it’s packed full of high quality, award-winning work.

Painting, fiber arts, glass, photography, jewelry, sculpture and mixed media is all represented at this show. Doors open from 10am to 5pm Sat and Sun. Admission is free and a cash bar is available. www. pava-artists.org/index.php/2018/01/01/7th-annual-2cool-art-show CRAFTY FEST. 11 am - 5 pm, Free, Art Pool Galleries, 2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. This market with an artsy slant includes local arts, Etsy

crafters, vintage and retro goods, jewelry and plants. www.artpoolrules.com ST. PETE BEACH SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL. Head over to Corey Avenue (300 & 400 blocks) in downtown St. Pete for a unique blending of delicious foods, great musical performances and a small marketplace of arts, crafts and select products. Hours both Sat and Sun are 10 am to 6 pm.

General admission to the event and live musical performances is FREE. All meals at the event are Continued

Huzzah and Cheers for 40 Years! Feb 10 - March 25 T

ake a time-travel adventure into the 16th century at the annual Bay Area Renaissance Festival. Join the Queen in a jubilee. Journey back in time as more than 100 merchants contribute to the atmosphere of this charming 16th century village. Experience live armored jousting, 12 stages of entertainment, 7 theme weekends, and fun and food for the whole family. The Festival is open weekends, with a special day for schools and seniors on Festival Friday, March 23rd. The Festival is open from 10 am – 6 pm, Rain or Shine.

Parking at the Bay Area Renaissance Festival is always free. Discount tickets are available at participating Walgreens stores and at MOSI. 11315 N. 46th Street, Tampa, FL 33617. www.BayAreaRenFest.com

24

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

T

he Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day community event celebrating the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. Guests come from near and far to enjoy exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, fine arts, horticulture, and crafts. The fabric of American life is woven into the Festival through social events, contests, youth developmental programs, top-name entertainment, and parades with floats and marching bands. The Festival continues to preserve and enhance the agricultural and historical legacy of the Florida strawberry.

HEADLINERS

Mar 1 - JIMMY STURR & HIS ORCHESTRA / THE OAK RIDGE BOYS Mar 2 - JERRY LEE LEWIS / JUSTIN MOORE WITH DYLAN SCOTT Mar 3 - CAM / BIG & RICH FEATURING COWBOY TROY Mar 4 - LEE GREENWOOD / REBA MCENTIRE Mar 5 - JIMMY FORTUNE / JOSH TURNER - MAR 5 Mar 6 - GAITHER VOCAL BAND / CASTING CROWNS

Mar 7 - ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK / TRACE ADKINS Mar 8 - THE LETTERMEN / DRIFTERS, PLATTERS AND CORNELL GUNTER’S COASTERS / I LOVE THE 90S TOUR FEATURING VANILLA ICE, SALT-N-PEPA AND TONE LOC Mar 9 - CHARLEY PRIDE / EARTH, WIND & FIRE Mar 10 - SAWYER BROWN / KENNY “BABYFACE” EDMONDS & ANTHONY HAMILTON Mar 11 - CHASE BRYANT / BRAD PAISLEY

www.flstrawberryfestival.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

25

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

cooked onsite by local restaurants and food purveyors using only the freshest ingredients such as grouper, mahi, stone crabs, oysters, shrimp and soft-shell crabs. All seafood dishes are prepared using local, sustainable ocean resources from Florida coastal waters. Meat entrees include such items as Italian and Polish sausage, steak sandwiches and chicken-on-a-stick. A variety of vegetarian and rice dishes also are found on the menu.

Both alcoholic (beer, wine and mixed-drinks) and non-alcoholic drinks (water, sodas and blended fruit drinks) are available along with a diversity of side dishes and desert items. While enjoying your meal, relax to some of Florida’s musical entertainers. Performances are live on-stage in musical genres from rock, jazz and blues to reggae and Caribbean sounds. www.seafoodfestivals.com/

Thurs, Feb 8

OLDSMAR CARES 8TH ANNUAL WINE & FOOD GALA. Hosted annually at Nielsen where 350+ guests will be treated to delectable dishes from 11 local restaurants and all the beer & wine

26

we can pour. This years event theme is “Together We Can Make Magic” and will feature a magic show, Wall of Wine, Mystery Gift Tower and Dine Around the World auction items. $60/per person. A portion of this year’s event will benefit the Oldsmar Cares PatchWork Grant Program. This program provides financial assistance in accordance with Oldsmar Cares core values of helping establish basic needs of food, shelter, health and well-being.

Previous recipients have received assistance after fire, theft, medical and transportation needs. www.oldsmarcares.org

Feb 8 - 19

FL STATE FAIR. The Florida State Fair attracts up to 500,000 people in twelve days. Each year Florida residents create exhibits for aquaculture, horticulture, woodcarving, needlework and more.

Bragging rights are still won for the prized bull, best pie and the most beautiful quilt. The Midway rides provide visitors with thrills and chills. Taste the latest and greatest in Fair foods such as the Pizza Cone, Redneck Burger, Bacon Ice Cream, and more. www.floridastatefair.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

27

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

Fri, Feb 9

FIFTH ANNUAL MUSE BENEFIT FOR THE ARTS.

MUSE will celebrate artistic inspiration at 7 p.m. at the Museum of Fine Arts. The fundraising benefit for arts will recognize the breadth and beauty of art and culture in our City of the Arts, and pay tribute to those that continue to inspire and guide St. Petersburg to its standing as an international arts destination. Proceeds will benefit artists, arts businesses, and arts & cultural organizations. No stiff tuxes, no boring speeches; it’s the art community’s pARTy to uniquely celebrate the Muses of St. Petersburg. Creative pARTy attire suggested.

Events include interactive digital art, pop-up performances, artful by-the-bite dinner courses, curated auction items, and the Muse Arts Awards. www.stpeteartsalliance.org NIGHT BLOW AT THE MOREAN. Join the Morean Glass Studio & Hot Shop for a night of glowin-the-dark fun. Live glass-blowing demonstrations featuring David Spurgeon, Jeremiah Jacobs, Tim Soluna, Edelweis Walker and Matt Piepenbrok.

Enjoy rockin’ beats by DJ Rich Ranck, food, beverage & glow-in-the-dark accessories along with some exciting glass-blowing in the dark. On Going Demonstrations in the dark with Great music by DJ Rich Ranck. Raffles all night long, prizes include handblown glass works of art by each of the participating artists.727-822-7872 for information.

WINTER WHISKEYFEST. Try over 12 different whiskeys, enjoy light bites, and mingle over live music in the brand new La 28

Florida event space. Tickets are limited, with room for only 250 friends and fans. 6pm–9pm. Your ticket includes: Entry to Red Mesa Cantina’s Elegant La Florida Ballroom; Over 12 Different Whiskey Brands to Taste; Commemorative Whiskey Tasting Glass; Complimentary Light Bites such as steak crostini, ceviche and more; Live entertainment

by St. Pete DJ Austen Van Der Bleek. A portion of proceeds go to Metro Wellness & Community Centers to support their essential LGBTQ, transgender, and youth programs. 6 PM - 9 PM. Red Mesa Cantina, 128 3rd St S, St Petersburg, FL. (727) 896-3435.

Sat, Feb 10

SECOND SATURDAY ARTWALK. 5 - 9 pm, Free, including trolley. Art districts throughout the city of St. Petersburg. An evening of art, opening receptions and galleries galore. Free trolley offers transport between the different districts. www.stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk CASINO NIGHT WITH VETERANS ART CENTER TAMPA BAY. The Veterans Art Center Tampa Bay is offering an evening of fun, great prizes and entertainment at The Palms Of Largo from 5:00 pm to11:00 pm. Folk University, with Mike Twitty and John Thrasher, will be entertaining guests.

Folk University’s music ranges from easy listening to beach music, Country to Rock and Progressive with some original works as well. In addition to casino games, raffle prizes, an appetizer buffet and a cash bar, guests will be treated to a special unveiling of CWO Greg Crumbly’s artwork that was commissioned by VACTB. With each event ticket, guests will receive a $500 Player Card,

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

29

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

One Drink ticket, and One Raffle Ticket. www.facebook.com/ events/313582362456632/ LOVE STINKS...LETS DRINK! Love is a Battlefield.

Bring your Cupid’s Crush and play games such as Spin the Bottle, Flip Sit or Strip, Beer Pong, Quarters, Flip Cup, trivia and More. Awesome music, movies and video games from the 80’s and 90’s, cash bar and food to be available. Kissing booth for Charity to benefit Pet Pal Animal Shelter. 7 PM - 11 PM. St Pete Side Lot, 2133 2nd Ave South, Saint Petersburg, FL. (727) 8044672.

BEST LIP SYNC PARTY EVER. All well-intentioned, funloving individuals are welcome.

Invite your friends. 7 – 10 pm.

Safety Harbor Art & Music Center, 706 2nd St. N, Safety Harbor. www.safetyharborartandmusiccenter.com

Sun, Feb 11

TAMPA BAY BRIDAL SHOW. Something old, something new, so many details... what to do? Go to the Tampa Bay Bridal Show and spend the afternoon with the area’s bridal experts. Look for great fashions, tips and wedding advice plus door prizes, giveaways and more. Noon - 4 pm. The Coliseum, 535 4th Ave North, St. Petersburg, Fl 33701. St Petersburg, FL. www.tampabay.com/expos/ bridal-show/ THE SHABBY CHIC VINTAGE MARKET AND ARTISAN DAYS. Shabby Chic Market offers all kinds of Shabby Chic items, artisans, fabulous food vendors or trucks, live street entertainers / performers, original art, painted furniture, antique vendors, Cottage Glam items, pallet art and signs, boutique clothing and more. Free admission. Safety Harbor Main Street

& Gazebo, 411 Main Street, Safety Harbor, FL. www.simplyeventsfl.com/shabby-chicvintage-markets/ ROCCO’S TACOS & TEQUILA BAR GRAND OPENING PARTY.

7 PM. Guests will enjoy Rocco’s signature chips, guacamole and salsa complimentary, as well as live entertainment and a cash bar. When party goers hear the buzzword “Tequila!” echo through the restaurant, Rocco will take his spot on top of the bar with a bottle of tequila in hand, ready to pour complimentary shots. Rocco’s Tacos is a full sensory dining experience complete with upbeat music, a spirited happy hour, Taco & Tequila Tuesday, and Bottomless Brunch on weekends. Diners can sample from over 300 varieties of tequila, either alone or mixed with Rocco’s homemade Margarita sour mix, nibble on guacamole prepared tableside, and enjoy cuisine that embodies the true spirit of Mexico. The restaurant will begin dinner service starting Monday, February 12th. Lunch will kick off on Monday, February 19th. International Plaza, 2223 N. Westshore Blvd, Tampa, FL. www.RoccosTacos.com Continued

30

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

31

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

Wed, Feb 14

VALENTINE’S DAY AT THE EPICUREAN HOTEL. The Epicurean Hotel is presenting its popular “Cupcakes & Cocktails” class from 7-9 p.m. Bring a friend or a sweetie and make some cupcake magic with Chef Beth from Cloud 9 confections. Before or after the class, indulge in a fabulous four-course tasting menu designed by twotime James Beard nominee Executive Chef Chad Johnson. www.epicureanhotel.com/events/ cupcakes-cocktails-valentines-day/ TAMPA THEATRE’S VALENTINE’S VOWS

ets are required to participate in the vows ceremony at no additional cost. To register for the vows, please contact Jill Witecki at jill@tampatheatre.org or (813) 274-8287.

Wed, Feb 15

FLEA MARKET WINE AND CHEESE OPENING NIGHT SALES. Proceeds support Garden Club projects and scholarships. 5 – 7 pm, $5, Garden Club St. Petersburg, 500 Sunset Dr. S, St. Petersburg. 727.381.8920. www.gardenclubstpetersburg.org GEORGIA O’KEEFFE: CHANGING THE WAY YOU SEE BY NAN COLTON. This one-woman show by Nan Colton chronicles the life of famous American artist Georgia O’Keeffe. 6:30 pm – 9 pm.

Safety Harbor Art & Music Center, 706 2nd St. N, Safety Harbor. www.safetyharborartandmusiccenter.com

Sat, Feb 17

ISLAND NIGHT & LUAU.

Before a Special Screening of ‘When Harry Met Sally’. If Tampa’s majestic movie palace is part of your love story – or if you would like it to be – you are invited to spend a romantic evening under the stars with Valentine’s Vows and a classic romantic comedy at Tampa Theatre on Wednesday, February 14. At 7:00pm, the Right Reverend John Bell will invite married couples to participate in an en masse renewal of their wedding vows – written especially for an audience well-versed in romantic movie quotes – and a champagne toast to “happily ever after.” And should there be anyone ready to walk down the aisle (both literally and figuratively) that night, just bring your marriage license, and the Rev. Bell will perform the legal ceremony. After the nuptials, Nora Ephron’s rom-com classic When Harry Met Sally… will provide the perfect excuse to sneak an arm around your date. The film screening will start at 7:30pm. Tickets are $10 for general admission and $7 for Tampa Theatre Members at the Franklin Street Box Office or online at www.

TampaTheatre.org (service fees apply). Film tick32

A benefit party for the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society (SPIFFS) featuring Echo of the South Pacific, a Polynesian show with fire dancers, Luau buffet, Dancing. Wear a bright shirt, a grass skirt or lei, and celebrate the tropical way.

6:00 pm, at the Admiral Farragut Academy, on the waterfront across from the school - Park St. & Country Club Rd. N., St. Petersburg. 727-5521896. www.spiffs.org THIRD SATURDAY ART & GALLERY WALK. 6 - 10 pm, Free, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. The streets

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

33

LOCAL FOCUS

Feb 20 - 23

Continued

are lined with artisans, entertainment and gourmet goodies. Shops, galleries and restaurants open late. www.visitgulfportflorida.com

Feb 17-18

3RD ANNUAL GULFPORT FINE ARTS FESTIVAL. The juried art show will feature the fine works of art from across the region, including but not limited to; 2D, 3D, Ceramics, Fiber, Glass, Metal, Mixed Media, Wood, Acrylics, Collage, Assemblages, Drawing, Leather, Oils, Pastels, Fine Photography, Stone, Watercolors, Fine Jewelry and Sculpture. 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Complimentary admission and parking conveniently located within walking distance. Courtesy transportation is also available from remote parking locations throughout the City. The event will take place at City of Gulfport’s Veteran’s Park overlooking Boca Ciega Bay, located at 5350 31st Ave. S., Gulfport.

727-322-5217. www.VisitGulfportFlorida.com

ST. PETERSBURG CONFERENCE ON WORLD AFFAIRS. Multiple panels of distinguished diplomats, military, media, and academic experts will discuss critical international issues of the day. Seating will be on a first come, first seated basis. Free, University of South Florida Student Center, 200 6th Ave. S, St. Petersburg. www. stpetersburgconferenceonworldaffairs.com/ conference/

Sat, Feb 24

14TH ANNUAL GULFPORT’S GET RESCUED.

2ND ANNUAL LIDO BEACH WINTER FINE ART FESTIVAL.

Enjoy the creativity of the artisans’ vision and talents in such mediums as painting, sculpture, jewelry, glass and ceramics, photography, fiber and wearable art to mixed-media, metalwork, woodworking and more. If you do not find exactly what you seek, commission a unique piece of art made specifically for you. All the artisans creating these works will be in attendance 10 am to 5 pm.

Admission to the event is FREE. 400 Benjamin Franklin Dr., Sarasota, FL 34236. www.paragonartevents.com/S-36-Lido+Beach+Winter+Fine+ Art+Festival.html 34

Over 45 rescue groups are participating and more than 1000 pets are ready to find their “furever” homes. This is the largest pet rescue festival in the State, with groups traveling to Gulfport from every side of the Tampa Bay and beyond. Animal rescues will converge from far and wide. A total of more than 1,000 pups, kitties, birds, bunnies and even skunks ready for you to be their special person. Meet with many of these cuddly creatures from 10am to 6pm on Beach Blvd. There will be vendors selling animal related products and crafts, artwork and unique pieces. Other pet-related activities include pet care education, a food and supplies drive, animal training demos, a Weiner Dog Derby, live pet portraits, contests, our annual BarkB-Que event, food, music and more. Bring your own critter companion, and join thousands of other visitors in Downtown Gulfport. All well-behaved people (and their surely polite pets) are welcome to the daytime event, and it won’t cost a cent to attend. Plenty of convenient complimentary parking will be available all around the area. 10am to 6pm.

3101 Beach Boulevard South, Gulfport, FL 33707. www.GulfportsGetRescued.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

35

Thomas The Tank Engine To Visit Parrish, FL March 10, 11, 16, 17, 18

A

ll aboard! Thomas the Tank Engine invites little engineers to join him for a day of big adventures and even bigger memories at Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour at the Florida Railroad Museum. Children everywhere can spend a day with their friend Thomas when the #1 Engine pulls into Florida Railroad Museum on March 10th, 11th and March 16th, 17th and 18th. Day Out with Thomas: Big Adventures Tour 2018 is presented by Mattel.

This fun-filled event offers children and their families the opportunity to take a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine, star of the popular Thomas & Friends™ series. In addition, they will meet Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway and enjoy a day of Thomas-themed activities including crafts, photo ops, and more. Your adventure includes: A 25-minute (approximate) ride with a talking Thomas the Tank Engine; A Meet & Greet with Sir Topham Hatt, Controller of the Railway; A Thomas & Friends Imagination Station featuring a variety of activities; A ‘Passport to Adventures’ booklet for children to track their journey at the event and receive a special prize upon completion; Thomas & Friends-themed activities including crafts, photo ops, and more; Storytelling, video viewing and live music.

Gates open 8:30AM till 5:00PM with train rides every hour starting at 9:00AM. Florida Railroad Museum, 12210 83rd St E, Parrish, Fl. 34219. Tickets: 866-468-7630, or www.ticketweb.com/dowt Ticket prices are $19$23 plus tax for ages 2 and up (service charges and fee may apply). For more information, call (941)776-0906 or visit www.frrm.org

36

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

MARKETS & CONTINUING EVENTS 1ST FRIDAYS ART IN THE HEIGHTS - 1st Friday thru March 2. First Friday Art in the Heights is at participating galleries, studios, and small businesses, from 6 to 9. Art After Hours features restaurants and bars in the area, from 9 to midnight. Several Seminole Heights and Tampa Heights neighborhood art galleries, studios and small businesses will be extending their hours so that you can see a slew of new art at different venues all in one outing. www.facebook.com/ FirstFridayArtintheheights/

2ND SATURDAYS AT WILLIAMS PARK. Family friendly event that takes place each second saturday of the month starting in December. www.y2kpro.com ROCK THE PARK CONCERT - 1st Thursday thru March 1. Rock the Park is held at Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on the 1st Thursday of the month. A monthly music series showcasing musical talents of all genres. This FREE event is pet and family-friendly. www.facebook.com/ RockThePark

1ST FRIDAY ST. PETE. Monthly street party with music, food and beverages for purchase.

Proceeds benefit the Christmas Toy Shop. 5:30 - 10 pm, Free, Central Ave., between 2nd & 3rd Streets, St. Petersburg. www.firstfridaystpete. com GULFPORT 1ST FRIDAY ART & GALLERY WALK. The streets are lined with artisans, entertainment and gourmet goodies. Shops, galleries and restaurants open late. 6 - 10 pm, Free, Beach Blvd., Gulfport. www.visitgulfportflorida.com

THE MID-WEEK MADEIRA BEACH OPEN AIR MARKET - Wednesdays. November through the end of April. 10am - 2pm, On Madeira Way between the Tom Stuart Causeway and Gulf Blvd in Madeira Beach. Local Growers, hydroponic and local produce, gourmet and specialty foods, fine arts and crafts, spaquality body care products, community connections.

Family and pet friendly, beach close, free.

www.TheBeachMarkets.com

TAMPA FLICKS AND FOOD TRUCKS Every 3rd Thursday. The Gourmet Food Truck Fun is paired with Independent short Flicks and Live Music.This urban, hip event is located at Grand Central at Kennedy where the Pour House and City Dog Cantina provide Micro Brews and cocktails. 10-15 gourmet food trucks offer everything from Burgers to Vegetarian Bites. 6pm – 10 pm, Rain or Shine. The Grand Central at Kennedy. 1208 E. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602. www.tampabaymarkets.com/flicks-and-foodtrucks

THE INDIAN SHORES SUNDAY MORNING MARKET. 3rd Sunday of the month. 9am-1pm, November through the end of April. On the grounds of the Town of Indian Shores Municipal Center. We’re Local produce, gourmet and specialty foods, fine arts and crafts, spa-quality body care products, fine arts and crafts, community connections. Town of Indian Shores Library Sale the third Sunday of each month.

Family and pet friendly, beach close. Free. 19305 Gulf Boulevard, Indian Shores.

www.TheBeachMarkets.com

CITRUS PARK MALL INDOOR MARKET EVERY SATURDAY. 10am -4 pm. Sample the Best Rum Cakes in Tampa. Meet talented Artisans and Fine Handcrafters. Bring the kids - relax and join paint classes from 1- 4 pm. Market in The Park, Westfield Citrus Park Mall, 7814 Citrus Park Town Center Mall, Tampa FL 33625. www.marketatthepark.com/

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

37

chandelier. Songs like “Music of the Night,” “All I Ask Of You” and “Masquerade” will be performed by a cast and orchestra of 52.

1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa.

813-229-Star. www.strazcenter.org

BROADWAY SHOWS

RIVERDANCE - Jan 19 - 21. The 20th Anniversary World Tour. The international Irish dance phenomenon is back by popular demand. Drawing on Irish traditions, the combined talents of the performers propel Irish dancing and music into the present day, capturing the imagination of audiences across all ages and cultures in an innovative and exciting blend of dance, music and song. Of all the performances to emerge from Ireland in rock, music, theatre and film - nothing has carried the energy, the sensuality and the spectacle of Riverdance.

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA - Feb 14 - 25. Cameron Mackintosh’s spectacular new production of Andrew Lloyd Webber’s The Phantom Of The Opera returns to Tampa. Critics are raving that this breathtaking production is “bigger and better than ever before” and features a brilliant new scenic design by Paul Brown, original costume design by Maria Björnson, lighting design by Tony Award winner Paule Constable, new choreography by Scott Ambler, and new staging by director Laurence Connor. The production, overseen by Matthew Bourne and Cameron Mackintosh, boasts many exciting special effects including the show’s legendary

THE COLOR PURPLE - Mar 6 - 11. This joyous American classic has conquered Broadway in an all-new “ravishingly reconceived production that is a glory to behold” (The New York Times) directed by Tony winner John Doyle. With a soul-raising score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues, The Color Purple gives an exhilarating new spirit to this Pulitzer Prize-winning story. Don’t miss this stunning re-imagining of an epic story about a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language.

THE BODYGUARD - March 20 - 25. Based on the hit film, the award-winning musical will star Grammy Award nominee and R&B superstar Deborah Cox. Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from and unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features a host of classics including “Queen of the Night,” “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and one of the biggest selling songs of all time – “I Will Always Love You.” Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language.

PHANTOM OF THE OPERA 38

For more information, visit Straz Center, 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

THEATER & MUSIC

AMALIE ARENA 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813.301.6500. www.amaliearena.com JANUARY 13 - Winter Jam 2018 20 - US 103.5: Throwdown by the Bay 2018 FEBRUARY 9 - Billy Joel 14 - Andrea Bocelli AMERICAN STAGE 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg 727.823.7529. www.americanstage.org/ JANUARY 11 - Leni & Joseph

11 - 14 - 21st Century Voices - Live staged readings of five new plays from five exceptional up-andcoming playwrights from Tampa Bay and beyond.

12 - If Now Were Hence 13 - Postlingual 14 - Good Bad People 14 - House Teams Live!

19 - 21 - I Get a Kick: A Sinatra Celebration 24 - 31 - A Raisin in the Sun FEBRUARY 1 - 18 - A Raisin in the Sun 4, 11, 18 - House Teams Live!

ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 800.361.8388 www.asolorep.org Continued

MORE STRAZ PERFORMANCES

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

39

FOOTLIGHTS con’t

JANUARY THRU 21 - The Motherf***er with the Hat 10 - March 28 - Shakespeare in Love 17 - March 4 - Morning After Grace CAPITOL THEATRE 405 Cleveland Street, Clearwater 727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com/Venues JANUARY 10 - Brad Garrett 11 - The Zombies 12, 13 - Art Garfunkel: In Close-up 14 - Karla Bonoff/Livingston Taylor 20 - Musical Thrones: A Parody 26 - Tom Rush 27 - Nitty Gritty Dirt Band 31 - ADAM ANT. Adam is bringing his Anthems: The Singles tour. Adam will play his best singles – from the classics to b sides, rarities and personal favorites. Adam is known for hits including “Goody Two Shoes”, “Stand and Deliver” and “Wonderful,” has sold more than 40,000,000 albums, crowned music charts worldwide and, globally, once had eight singles in the Top 40 in one week. He was voted Sexiest Man Alive by MTV viewers in the 80s.

FEBRUARY 3 - Arlo Guthrie 6 - The Tenors 7 - The Flecktones Trio 8 - Jake Shimabukuro 10 - Under the Streetlamp 14 - Rufus Wainwright 15 - Judy Collins 16 - Sierra Hull 17 - Colin Quinn 18 - Jesse Colin Young 19 - Earls of Leicester 20 - George Benson CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. www.carrollwoodcenter.org JANUARY 9 - 12. FRANZINI FAMILY SCIENCE CIRCUS. Children’s entertainers, Professor Franzini and Lippo the Clown, will use circus props, juggling, magic and more to turn their circus show into a science lesson.

24 - HANS BRINKER & THE QUICK-SILVER ROCKET SKATES. Set in the future, this musical version of the classic children’s story follows Hans as he uses his engineering ingenuity to invent rocket skates to beat the clock and help his ailing mother.

40

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

25 - MYSTERIOUS MONA LISA. No one knows the identity of the mysterious smiling woman in the world’s most famous painting, but an art student is about to find some clues as she travels back in time. This original play explores the art, science, and music of the original “Renaissance Man,” Leonardo Da Vinci.

CARROLLWOOD PLAYERS THEATRE 4335 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 813.265.4000. www.carrollwoodplayers.org/ JANUARY 12 - FEB 3 - THE MIRACLE WORKER. The classic, moving story of a girl named Helen Keller who meets a special teacher named Annie Sullivan.

FEBRUARY 16 - 18 - THE PENIS MONOLOGUES. Following last year’s popular production of The Vagina Monologues, it should be fun to hear the other side of the story. Don’t miss this staged reading in which men let it all hang out.

23 - MAR 17 - JEKYLL & HYDE. Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic story of the battle between good and evil comes to life in this Tony Award-winning Broadway musical.

CATHERINE HICKMAN THEATRE 5501 27th Avenue South Gulfport, Florida 33707. www.mygulfport.us

JANUARY

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued

41

FOOTLIGHTS con’t

11 - 21 - BREAKING THE CODE. A drama that tells the story of alan turing, a brilliant mathematician, who cracked the German enigma code which helped win World War II. 27, 28 - THE RAT PACK - TOGETHER AGAIN. Experience the masterful recreation of this legendary trio when seeing Davis, Martin, and Sinatra at The Sands was one of the most popular things travelers to Nevada could do.

27 - POPPY CHAMPLIN AFTERNOON DELIGHT OF COMEDY. Poppy Champlin brings her Provincetown brew of stand-up comedy, improvisation and serious vocal talent to Gulfport. Poppy takes on current events and other life absurdities through an adult lesbian’s eyes. Buyer discretion advised for small children and other “sheltered souls.”

CENTRAL PARK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 105 Central Park Dr, Largo. 727.587.6793. www.largoarts.com JANUARY 11, 12 - The Three Little Pigs 13 - Bria Skonberg 14 - THE FIFTH DIMENSION featuring Florence LaRue

19 - Massenkoff Russian Folk Festival 20 - Mutts Gone Nuts 42

20 - Franc D’Ambrosio’s Broadway 22 - A Tribute to Carole King 25 - The Rat Pack Together Again 27 - Buddy, Roy and Elvis Tribute 29 - Fleetwood Max FEBRUARY 2 - The Pure Zeppelin Experience 3 - A Tribute James Taylor and Simon & Garfunkel 7 - Ecology is Awesome 10 - A Steely Dan Tribute 11 - The Music of Bobby Darin 12 - The McCartney Project

EARLY BIRD DINNER THEATRE 13355 49th St N, Clearwater, FL 33762.

727.864.7600. www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com JANUARY thru FEB 25 - LEADING LADIES. The nonstop laughter is an irresistible treat for the audience. Leading Ladies is a roller coaster of continuous laughs that leave the audience breathless. It might be the funniest play of the twentieth century, it’s hilarity with a heart.

MARCH 8 - APRIL 29. NUNSENSE. Directed by artistic director Patricia Zaback.

ECKERD COLLEGE 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg Miller Auditorium. 727.864.7600. www.eckerd.edu/metopera The Met in HD Series. Live high-definition broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera.

JANUARY 12 - OBSESSION - Jude Law stars in the stage production of Obsession, broadcast live from the Barbican Theatre in London. Ivo van Hove directs this new stage adaptation of Luchino Visconti’s 1943 film. www.livehdstpete.com/obsession 27 - TOSCA. Puccini’s melodrama about a volatile diva, a sadistic police chief, and an idealistic artist has offended and thrilled audiences for more than a century.

FEBRUARY 10 - L’Elisir D’Amore 16 - Salomé. This charged retelling turns the infamous biblical tale on its head, placing Salomé at the center of a revolution. www.livehdstpete.com/ national-theatre-live

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

FLORIDA ORCHESTRA 727.662.7286. www.floridaorchestra.org See venues for dates – Mahaffey Theater, Ruth Eckerd Hall & David Straz Performing Arts Center

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 1241 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236.

(941) 366-9000. www.floridastudiotheatre.org JANUARY

Seen

thru JAN 14 - ONCE. An unforgettable story about dreams and the power of music. thru FEB 4 - HOW TO USE A KNIFE. A sharp=edged comedy sizzling with spicy banter and second chances. thru MARCH 4 - HEISENBERG. An electric encounter thrusts these two strangers into a fascinating and life-changing game.

24 - MARCH 25 - NATIVE GARDENS/ Cultures clash turning friendly neighbors into feuding adversaries. thru APRIL 7 - LIFE’S A BEACH. From snowbirds to roundabouts, this revue-style show will feature sketches, musicals, and our favorite classic improv games. Poking fun at what makes Sarasota, Sarasota, by using audience suggestions. thru APRIL 8 - BLUE SUEDE SHOES. Celebrate the birth of rock and roll with hits from the 1950s.

FEBRUARY 7 - JUNE 10 - Tongue-in-Cheek musical revue.

MARCH 21 - APRIL 8 - THE THINGS THEY CARRIED. A powerful telling of one soldier’s unforgettable jourContinued photo by Bridget Burke

e On Th

scene

S P A SN

98 Degrees brought their special brand of Christmas magic to the Mahaffey Theater in Downtown St. Petersburg in December.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

43

FOOTLIGHTS con’t

ney.

APRIL 4 - MAY 25 - HONOR KILLING. Once culture mirrors the other, asking questions about forgiveness.

FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSE 302 Seminole St., Clearwater, Florida 33755. 727446-1360. www.franciswilsonplayhouse.org/ JANUARY 18 - 28 - Rumors FREEFALL THEATRE COMPANY 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-498-5205 www.freefalltheatre.com JANUARY 26 - FEB 18 - The Glass Menagerie. The seminal masterpiece by one of America’s greatest playwrights.

MARCH 16 - APRIL 8 - Daddy Long Legs

GLENRIDGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota. 941-552-5325 www.gpactix.com FEBRUARY 11 - Veronica Swift 14 - The Mersey Beatles

JOBSITE THEATER Straz Center for the Performing Arts. 1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa . 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org thru FEB 11 - THE TEMPEST. This production reimagines the character of Prospero as 44

a woman. On a distant island, a woman waits.

Robbed of her position, power and wealth, her enemies have left her in isolation. But this is no ordinary woman nor an ordinary island. She is a magician, able to control the very elements and bend nature to her will. When the vessel carrying those who wronged her appears in the distance, she creates a vast magical storm to bring them to her – then they awake finding themselves in a place where nothing is as it seems.

MAHAFFEY THEATER 400 1St St. S, Bayfront Center, St. Petersburg, 727.892.5767. www.themahaffeytheater.com JANUARY 10 - A Night of Janis Joplin 11 - Branford Marsalis 11 - TFO Coffee Concert 13 - TFO: Rogers & Hammerstein 16 - Tango Fire 17 - The Drifters, Coasters & Platters 18 - iLuminate 19 - Steve Martin & Martin Short 20, 21 - TFO: Dvorak;s Cello Concerto 23 - Pink Martini 24 - Bob Woodward 26 - TFO: Distant Worlds 27 - Masters of Illusion: Believe the Impossible 28 - TFO: Distant Worlds FEBRUARY 1 - TFO: Coffee Concert 2 - TFO: The Music of Pink Floyd 3 - G3 2018 6 - Ballet Boyz 8 - ABBA Mania 9 - Tony Bennett

10 - TFO: Music of Star Trek & Star WarsContinued

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

45

46

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

FOOTLIGHTS con’t 11 - The Gershwin Songbook 15 - The Midtown Men 17 - TFO: Romeo & Juliet & West Side Story 23, 24 - TFO: Dvorak’s New World Symphony THE PALLADIUM 253 5Th Ave N, St. Petersburg. 727.822.3590. www.mypalladium.org www.mypalladium.org JANUARY 12 - Beacon 2018 13 - Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young Tribute 18 - JOHNNY LANG

19 - James Suggs 20 - Chester Gregory 21 - Nicki Parrott, Rossano Sportiello & Ed Metz FEBRUARY 2 - 6 - The Magic Flute 8 - The Mersey Beatles 9 - Backtrack Blues Band 10 - Vic DiBitteto 13 - Ultimate Tribute to Fleetwood Mace 14 - Whitney James 17 - Memories of Elvis 18 - Jeanne Robertson 19 - Gene Watson 20 - Tampa Bay Symphony: East Meets West

4951 78th Ave. N, Pinellas Park. www.etix.com/ ticket/v/11231 JANUARY 20 - Beginnings - Tribute to Chicago FEBRUARY 3 - Fleetwood Mac Tribute

RUTH ECKERD HALL 1111 N. Mcmullen Booth Rd, Clearwater.

727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com JANUARY 10 - TFO: Musicians in the Spotlight 11 - The Doo Wop Project 12 - Johnny Mathis 13 - Moody Blues 14 - The 3 Redneck Tenors 18 - Mike Hammer: Encore for Murder 18 - Johnny Lang 18 - Jackson Brown w/Greg Leisz 21 - Bill Engvall 26 - Richard Elliott 26 - Paul Anka 29 - The Modern Gentlemen 30 - Diana Krall 31 - TFO: The Best of British FEBRUARY 2 - Cabaret 9 - Little River Band & Pablo Cruise 10 - RAIN - Tribute to the Beatles 11 - Marilyn & Dean 13 - Beach Boys 14 - Dancing with the Stars: Live!

15 - WILLIE NELSON

16 - Kelsea Ballerini 18 - Sandy Hackett’s Rat Pack Show

PINELLAS PARK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued 47

FOOTLIGHTS con’t

18 - Jeanne Robertson 18 - TFO: Romeo and Juliet 19 - Daniel O’Donnell SARASOTA BALLET 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota 941-359-0099. www.sarasotaballet.org JANUARY 26 - 29 - MOVING IDENTITIES. A triple bill of stimulating, thrilling and entertaining Modern and Neo-Classical works.

SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE

61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, 941.359.0099. www.sarasotaopera.org FEBRUARY 10 - 24 - Manon Lescaut 17 - 27 - Carmen

SHOW PALACE DINNER THEATRE 16128 U.S. Hwy 19, Hudson, FL 34667. 727-863-7949. www. showpalace.net/ thru DEC 25 - Music brings the Rudolph family together in A Doo Wop Christmas. An original story set to the tune of doo wop holiday favorites and Christmas

classics.

SIDESPLITTERS COMEDY CLUB 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33618. (813) 9601197 www.sidesplitterscomedy.com/ JANUARY 7 - 28 - Comic’s Night Out 11 - 14 - Ben Gleib 13 - Dusty Slay 18 - “Dr. Dirty” John Valby 19 - 20 - Dom Irrera 20 - 21 - Steve Miller 25 - 28 - Lynne Koplitz FEBRUARY 1 - 4 - Hypnotist Rich Guzzi 8 - 11 - Leonard Ouzts 10 - Brian Aldridge 14 - 17 - Tommy Blaze 22 - 25 - TOM RHODES

SKIPPERS SMOKEHOUSE 910 Skipper Rd, Tampa, FL 33613, (813) 971-0666. www. skipperssmokehouse.com/ JANUARY 21 - The Travelin’ McCourys As the sons of bluegrass legend Del McCoury, Ronnie McCoury 48

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

on mandolin and Rob McCoury on banjo continue their father’s work—a lifelong dedication to the power of bluegrass music to bring joy into people’s lives.

And with fiddler Jason Carter and bassist Alan Bartram, the ensemble is loved and respected by the bluegrass faithful.

But the band is now combining their sound with others to make something fresh and rejuvenating.

SNAPPER’S GRILL & COMEDY CLUB 36657 U.S. Highway 19, North, Palm Harbor FEBRUARY 14 - LINDSAY GLAZER - The Valentine’s Day show will feature Glazer’s signature brutal honesty and her comedic take on a wide range of hot-button issues like dating, marriage and the hookup culture. Singles, couples and people whose relationship status is complicated, are invited to celebrate the evening by enjoying Glazer’s irreverent and unapologetic stand-up performance in the Love’s a B!tch: The AlphaB!tch and Friends Valentine’s Day Comedy Show. www.lindsayglazer.com/tickets

Sammy collides his Polynesian roots with his love for modern jazz and r&b, which results in a passionate musical hybrid that is soothing.

STAGEWORKS THEATER 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., West Bldg., #151, Tampa, 813.374.2416.

www.stageworkstheatre.org JANUARY 12 - 21 weekends. KEELY AND DU Somewhere, a group is holding a young woman in a locked room, against her will. They aren’t going to hurt her. They don’t want any ransom. They just want to change her mind about her unwanted pregnancy.

That’s the premise behind Keely and Du, Jane Martin’s controversial drama on the continuing, contentious debate over abortion in America.

FEBRUARY 9 - 25 - BROWNSVILLE SONG (b-side for tray). This play, by a rising female writer, tells the story of Tray, a spirited African American 18-year old and his Continued

STATE THEATRE 687 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, FL. www.statetheatreconcerts.com JANUARY 14 - Lee Scratch Perry 19 - Big Something 27 - They Might Be Giants FEBRUARY 3 - SAMMY JOHNSON. Australian native, New Zealandbred soulful reggae star Sammy Johnson will bring his positive-centric brand of entertainment back to the State theatre. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

49

FOOTLIGHTS con’t

family. Based on true events, this is a powerful take on strength in the face of tragedy.

ST. PETERSBURG CITY THEATRE Oldest, continuously operating community theatre in Florida since 1925. 4025 31st St. S, St. Petersburg, 33712. 727-866-1973. www.spcitytheatre.org ST. PETERSBURG OPERA COMPANY 727.823.2040 www.stpeteopera.org Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings and Cocktail with the Maestro. Various performance locations JANUARY 11 - CWTM Preview to the Magic Flute 18 - EWTM Preview to the Magic Flute 19 - MWTM Preview to the Magic Flute FEBRUARY 2 - 6 - The Magic Flute

STRAZ CENTER 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813.229. STAR www.strazcenter.org JANUARY 12 - TFO: Rogers & Hammerstein 12 - MARCH 11 - FOREVER PLAID. When four young singers are killed in a car crash, they posthumously take the stage for one final gig in this goofy, 1950’s nostalgia trip. This deliciously fun revue is chock-full of classic barbershop quartet harmonies and

pitch-perfect melodies! Singing in close harmony, squabbling boyishly and executing their charmingly outlandish choreography with overzealous precision, the Plaids are a guaranteed smash, with a program of beloved songs that keep audiences rolling in the aisles when they’re not humming along to some of the great nostalgic pop hits of the 1950s.

13 - Stars of Today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow 15 - The Sibling Rivalry Tour 15 - Hannah Wicklund & The Steppin Stones.

Rock ‘n’ roll band based out of Nashville.

They’re fronted by 20-year-old singer, songwriter and incendiary guitarist Hannah Wicklund. Promoting their single “Bomb Through The Breeze” from the new album which will be drop in January, 2018.

16 - View From Above w/Terry Virts

RIVERDANCE

50

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

51

FOOTLIGHTS con’t 16 - 25 - Open Rehearsal - The Barber of Seville 17 - FEB 11 - The Tempest 19 - TFO: Dvorak’s Cello Concerto 19 - 21 - RIVERDANCE 20 - Amadeus 21 - Dr. Seuss’ The Cat in the Hat 22 - John Gorka 24 - Gobsmacked! A new twist on a cappella shows.

26 - Decades Rewind 27 - Miranda Sings 29 - Adam Trent FEBRUARY 1 - Black Violin 1 - 11 - The Tempest 2 - Take Me to the River 2, 4 - The Barber of Seville 3 - The Lightning Thief 6 - Steve Trash 7 - JUDY BLUME: OTHERWISE KNOWN AS SHEILA THE GREAT. Being a 10 year-old kid is kind of a pain. Having an older sister is really a pain. Being afraid of everything is… well, just plain painful! Sheila Tubman, otherwise known as Sheila the Great, comes of age in ArtsPower’s lively and poignant musical, based on Judy Blume’s popular novel, about discovering the person within.

THE STUDIO @620 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701. 27895-6620. www.studio620.org JANUARY 25 - Feb 4 - weekends. GLADIOLA - Gladiola explores the concept of later life divorce (sometimes called Silver Divorce) and the effect it has on older couples and their loved ones. The piece examines the role of marriage in society — whether marriage is necessary to have a fully integrated life and whether an unhappy marriage is preferable to none at all.

TARPON SPRINGS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 324 Pine St, Tarpon Springs, FL. www.tarponarts.org/ JANUARY 14 - Eleanor Roosevelt: The Power of Words 18 - The Company Men 21 - Sense & Sensibility 28 - The Singing String Quartet FEBRUARY 1 - 4 - The Mikado 10, 11 - Elvis My Way 17 - Rhythm of the Dance 18 - Pavlo TRIPLE THREAT THEATRE Ybor Campus Mainstage Theatre. 813-969-0240. www.TBTTT.org URBANITE THEATRE 1487 Second Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. www.urbanitetheatre.com JANUARY 26 - MARCH 11 - NORTHSIDE HOLLOW.

9 - TFO: The Music of Star Trek & Star Wars 11 - Laura Benanti 13 - 22 - Open Rehearsal - The Marriage of Figaro 15 - From Bach to Bowie 16 - TFO: Romeo & Juliet & West Side Story 18 - Jeremy McCarter Continued 52

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

53

FOOTLIGHTS con’t Trapped underground after a deadly collapse, a coal miner finds his salvation in the arrival of a young and inexperienced first responder. While they wait for additional rescue assistance, they discover they have a curious amount in common.

(Contains adult language.)

VAN WEZEL 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-953-3368 www.vanwezel.org JANUARY 10 - The Nat King Cole Tribute 11 - Royal Philharmonic Orchestra 12 - Tango Fire 15 - Legendary 5th Dimension 16 - Renée Fleming 17 - Chita Rivera & Tommy Tune 18 - The Drifters, Platters & Coasters 21 - Musical Thrones 23 - A Tribute to Carole King 24 - Jackson Brown w/Greg Leisz 25 - Paul Anka 26 - Masters of Illusion 27 - Credence Clearwater Revisited 28 - Michael Feinstein 30 - Cabaret

FEBRUARY 1 - Ballet Boyz 5 - In the Mood 6 - Diana Krall 7 - TRAVIS WALL

8 - Brian Regan Live 10 - Tony Bennett 13 - Dancing with the Stars: Live!

14 - The Beach Boys 15 - George Benson 16 - Barry Manilow 17 - Michael McDonald 18 - The Hot Sardines 19 - Stayin’ Alive

VILLAGIO CINEMAS AT CARROLLWOOD 11778 N Dale Mabry Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618. www.hellonheelsrhps.com EVERY FRIDAY ROCKY HORROR PICTURE SHOW WITH LIVE CAST. The Rocky Horror Picture Show with Live cast Hell on Heels. Join in for a night of sinful indulgence in classic RHPS style. Live cast, call backs, liquor, lingerie, plush reclining seats, and plenty of fishnets to go around.Time warp into the early hours of the morning.Make Fridays into a tradition of Transylvanian cultural appreciation, complete with plenty of virgin sacrifices. Doors for the show open around 11:30 PM. Preshow begins at 11:45, and every show ends with a meet-and-greet with the cast and crew.

VINOY PARK 701 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. www.sunshinemusicfestival.com JANUARY 13 - Sunshine Music Festival - noon – 10 pm. with VIP packages available. Galactic, Hot Tuna, Foundation of Funk and so many more. Benefiting My Hope Chest.

54

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

55

COOLSTUFF!

X A R T C I MUS

G

All music is available on www.Amazon.com

BRIAN LANDRUS O R C H E S T R A Generations

enerations is the breathtaking debut of the Brian Landrus Orchestra, a 25-piece all-star ensemble stocked with some of the most inventive musicians in modern music. These virtuosos bring to the forefront the extraordinary, sweeping music of composer, baritone sax and low woodwind master Brian Landrus. This orchestra incorporates inspiration from classical music, hip-hop, soul, funk, jazz, reggae and world music. These diverse gneres are deconstructed and absorbed, emeerging with a new musical landscape. www.brianlandrus.com

EURYTHMICS Peace

O

ne of the most revered and respected pop groups of the 1980s, Eurythmics (Dave Stewart and Annie Lennox), with over 80 million albums sold, have been nominated for the 2018 induction into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and are re-releasing eight of their RCA studio albums on vinyl between April and Oct, 2018.

Referencing the move to vinyl now, Stewart says “They [albums] will sound better. In the archives, we have the original half-inch masters, which have a fantastic sound.

That’s what we’re going from, not the digital remasters where the sound has been compressed.”

TREVOR GORDON HALL Late Night With Headphones Vol 1

T

his is the latest album from guitarist and composer Trevor Gordon Hall, hailed by Acoustic Guitar Magazine as “one of the top 30 guitarists in the world under 30.” Late Night With Headphones Vol 1 is a heart-felt collection of songs that sends listeners in a differnt direction. He puts down his acoustic guitar and picks up the electric, weaving multiple layers of sounds and textures spanning various gneres. He’s on a mission to push personal boundaries, explore new sounds, and awaken dormant inspirations while saying true to his own melodic senses.

www.trevorgordonhall.com 56

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.eurythmics.com/

CHRISTEN LIEN Elpis

C

hristen Lien is an avant-garde artist with classical roots, and a multi-instrumentalist who creates an innovative brand of musical storytelling. She has branched out to bend the classical genre by integrating innovative technology and collaborating with artists and musicians from many mediums. The viola is at the heart of her music making; however, she also incorporates the use of guitar effect processors and looping pedals to create a multi-faceted landscape that bridges electronic, industrial and classical genres. www.christenlien.com

LAUREN KINHAN A Sleepin’ Bee

W

hether on her own highly-acclaimed albums, as a 25year member of the vocal group New York Voices, or as co-founder of two diverse groups, Moss and JaLaLa, singer/ songwriter Lauren Kinhan has always forged her own path as a performer, composer and improviser. With her latest, A Sleepin’ Bee, on Dotted i Records, Kinhan presents the first all-standards collection of her career, a loving tribute to legendary vocalist Nancy Wilson, showing Kinhan’s unique perspective and idiosyncratic personality.

www.laurenkinhan.com

DOLLY PARTON I Believe In You

D

olly Parton has released her first-ever children’s album, titled I Believe in You, 50 years after the release of her first album. Dolly wrote and sings all 14 of the tracks. The album includes a new recording of her 1971 hit song “Coat of Many Colors,”as well as a bonus track of her reading the book version aloud. All proceeds from the album go to Parton’s charity, the Imagination Library, which mails over one million books around the world monthly to children to help promote literacy. She began her charity 20 years ago, and 100 million books have gotten into the hands of children so far. www.dollyparton.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

57

58

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

The Florida Orchestra Gala with Sting

T

Raises Record $1.5 Million

he Florida Orchestra’s 50th anniversary gala featuring a sold-out performance by renowned artist Sting, was the orchestra’s most successful ever, raising a record $1.5 million to support TFO’s growing community programs and high standard of artistic excellence.

“An Intimate Evening with The Florida Orchestra and Sting” captured all the excitement and momentum of the orchestra’s 50th anniversary season in one extraordinary night as 2,000 patrons packed the Mahaffey Theater. The 90-minute concert, under the baton of Music Director Michael Francis, won rave reviews in the media and put the orchestra in the spotlight as the 16-time Grammy winner performed symphonic arrangements of his biggest hits, including Fields of Gold, Roxanne and Every Breath You Take.

The Florida Orchestra’s Sting concert was one of the hottest tickets in town the moment it was announced. People lined up down the block outside the orchestra offices in St. Petersburg when tickets went on sale in September. Tickets sold out in a week.

In addition to the concert, more than 300 patrons attended a reception and catered dinner with Sting as part of the gala event.

The $1.5 million raised through the gala includes fundraising donations and concert-only ticket sales. The funds will support TFO’s free community programs, which last season reached about 80,000 people in hospitals, schools, parks, museums and more, as well as artistic initiatives that bring top talent to Tampa Bay stages.

The Florida Orchestra: The Florida Orchestra regularly performs at the Straz Center in Tampa, Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. Masterworks and Pops tickets are $15, $30 and $45. Kids and teens get in free to all Masterworks concerts with Classical Kids tickets, available in advance at the Ticket Center. floridaorchestra.org or 727.892.3337 and 1.800.662.7286.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

59

COOLSTUFF!

! f l e h s k o o B On The

STAR WARS Made Easy

A beginner’s Guide to a Galaxy Far Far Away

by Christian Blauvelt

D

on’t know your Wookiees from your Wampas? If the Star Wars saga has you stumped, Star Wars Made Easy gives you everything you need to get you around the galaxy. Star Wars is a global phenomenon and the Force has truly reawakened. So where to start if you have never actually gotten around to watching the movies? Or if you find yourself dating an avid Star Wars fan? Or your kids keep asking you tricky questions about the dark side? Star Wars Made Easy is aimed at Star Wars novices who want to get up to speed and make sense of the Star Wars references that permeate modern culture.

This book will answer questions about the movies and the Star Wars universe.

Christian Blauvelt is a Webby-winning media/entertainment journalist, with years of experience at global brands publishing editorial content and cross-platform audience experiences for digital, print, television, and in-person events.

Penguin Random House / www.dk.com

WEALTH UNBROKEN: Growing Wealth

Uninterrupted by Market Crashes, Taxes or Even Death

by Rebecca Walser

I

n this book, Rebecca Walser, a tax attorney and financial strategist, demystifies the path the long-term wealth building using her many years of financial experience. 96 out of 100 Americans will fail to achieve real, lasting financial cuccess in retirement because conventional welth-building wisdom has been leading Americans astray for over 40 years. From a variety of sources, Americans have been fed half-truths for decades, ruining their lifetime pocketbooks. Wealth Unbroken subverts this misinformation and tells readers how to avoid common financial pitfalls while properly saving, building and investing for now and the future.

Rebecca Walser, JD, LLM, CFP, is a seasoned wealth management advisor specializing in strategic tax and financial planning for high net worth individuals, families and businesses. She is based in Tampa.

60

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Atlantic Publishing Group www.atlantic-pub.com

A PIONEER SON AT SEA: Fishing Tales of Old Florida

by Gilbert L. Voss, Edited By Robert S. Voss

L

ong before tourism dominated Florida’s coastline, the state was home to dozens of commercial fisheries and ethnically diverse communities of rugged individuals who made their living from the sea. In A Pioneer Son at Sea, Gilbert Voss recounts his early days of fishing on both coasts of the peninsula during the Great Depression and World War II. Here are vanished scenes from old Florida: gill-netting for mackerel off Jupiter, the early days of charterboat fishing for sailfish out of Stuart and Boynton, the snapper fleet at Carrabelle, sponge-diving at Tarpon Springs, the oyster fishery at Crystal River, and mullet fishing from airboats at Flamingo. Voss’s anecdotes feature Crackers, rum runners, murderers, Conchs, wealthy industrialists, charterboatmen, Greek spongers, and Cuban vivero captains.

Gilbert L. Voss (1918–1989) was professor of biological oceanography at the University of Miami. He was the author of several books including Seashore Life of Florida and the Caribbean. Robert S. Voss, the author’s son, is a curator at the American Museum of Natural History in New York City.

University Press of Florida www.upf.com

Getting Off On FRANK SINATRA

Imbrefex www.meganedwards.com

A Copper Black Mystery

by Megan Edwards

A

spiring journalist Copper Black has just found out that her boyfriend is responsible for his not-quite-ex-wife’s pregnancy. A house-sitting job at a Las Vegas “party house” should provide much-needed distraction. While researching a story about an exclusive private school, Copper accidentally discovers the dead body of the school’s founder. Now involved in a highprofile murder investigation, Copper turns to her brother, a pastor who is overseeing the construction of a center for the homeless. An Indian medicine man claims the site is a sacred burial ground, attracting hordes of protesters. As she tries to solve the murder, help her brother, advance her career, and sort out her love life, Copper stirs up a world of trouble.

Megan Edwards is an award-winning writer based in Las Vegas, where she is Executive Editor of Living-Las-Vegas.com. A former newspaper columnist and magazine contributor, Edwards is the author of the well-received travel memoir Roads from the Ashes. This is her first novel. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

61

ATT RACT I O NS & MUS E UMS E V E N TS

Tampa Bay Area

BOYD HILL NATURE PRESERVE 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg 727.893.7326. www.stpeteparksrec.org/boyd-hill.

Tram Tours Saturdays, Guided Tours, Classes.

BROOKER CREEK PRESERVE 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727.

453.6800. www.brookercreekpreserve.org

ist, diver and underwater photographer, Leib developed a passion for deep water diving. Her attention to detail is exhibited in this show featuring glass works inspired by the underwater world, complimented by her photographic works.

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767.

(727) 441-1790. www.seewinter.com

CHIHULY COLLECTION 720 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg. 727.822.7872. www.moreanartscenter.org Only permanent collection of Dale Chihuly’s work.

FEBRUARY 8 - Cocktails @ the Collection. Enjoy light snacks and beverages, an after hours look at the Chihuly Collection and a sneak preview of work by Shayna Leib.

9 - MAY 12 - Shayna Leib: Into the Deep. An art-

Continued

MUST SEE MINIATURES! at the Dunedin Fine Art Gallery

T

he Miniature Art Society of Florida’s International Miniature Art Exhibition is once again coming to the Dunedin Fine Art Center from January 14 through February 4. Be amazed by the spectacular display of miniatures - not only paintings but scrimshaw, fired porcelain, pastel, colored pencil and sculpture - including works created by some of the world’s finest miniature artists from around the world. With few exceptions, all of the art is for sale.

Over 700 works of art will be on display. The artwork is well lighted and magnifying glasses are attached to all of the screens, so that guests may view the detail. Entries come from 33 states and 7 different countries, providing a wonderful diversity of subject matter and frames. This is a juried show.

Visitors, starting Monday, January 15th - through February 4th, may talk to and observe artists while they work. Most of the artists create under magnification, using a variety of mediums, methods and the tiniest of brushes. Demonstrators may be from England, Canada, many US states, and local Florida artists.

The Miniature Art Society of Florida has awarded more than $130,000 in Fine Art Scholarships to more than 119 qualified college-bound high school graduates.

Painting is shown here at actual size.

Dunedin Fine Art Center, 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin, Florida.

727-298-3322 • www.dfac.org • www.miniature-art.com 62

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

63

Attractions & Museums

CONT

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, nurse sharks and more. Winter the dolphin’s story of survival, after the injury that caused her to lose her tail, has impacted millions of people around the world. A major motion picture, Dolphin Tale, highlighted her life story in 2011. The sequel, Dolphin Tale 2, features the story of Hope, a young resident dolphin.

CRACKER COUNTRY Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 US-301, Tampa, FL 33610. (813) 627-4225. www.crackercountry.org/ Cracker Country, a rural Florida living history museum, was established in 1978 by Mr. and Mrs. Doyle Carlton, Jr. so future generations might better understand and appreciate Florida’s rural heritage.

CRAFTSMAN HOUSE 2955 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.323.2787. www.craftsmanhousegallery.com Gallery-Cafe-Pottery Studio

2nd Saturday Gallery Walk DALÍ MUSEUM One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, 727.823.3767. www.thedali.org JANUARY Thru 14 - DALI & SCHIAPARELLI. Dali & Schiaparelli features haute couture gowns and accessories, jewelry, paintings, drawings, objects and photos, as well as new designs by Bertrand Guyon for Maison Schiaparelli. This is the first exhibition dedicated to the creative relationship and works of Elsa Schiaparelli and Salvador Dali – friends and collaborators that set Paris and the world ablaze with their groundbreaking visions.

13 - 60 Years and Still in Vogue 18 - Opera at the Dali FEBRUARY 10 - MAY 27. DALÍ/DUCHAMP invites visitors to examine the relationship between the father of Surrealism, Salvador Dalí, and the father of conceptual art, Marcel Duchamp. The first exhibit dedicated to Continued

REAL MUSIC, REAL MASTERS Jan 8 - March 3

10165 N McKinley Dr, Tampa, FL 33612 (888) 800-5447 • www.buschgardens.com

T

he longest-running concert series at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay returns with live music spanning from the 1950s to today, plus all-new entertainment including pop and country artists, a cirque show and a rhythmic Irish dance group. Live performances are scheduled Mon thru Sat at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. in the Stanleyville Theater. There will also be an additional 3:30 p.m. show for Cirque Vertigo and Rhythm in the Night during the weeks that they perform.

2018 LINEUP

Cirque Vertigo Featuring The Wallenda Duo Jan 8 - 13 Michael Cavanaugh - Jan 15 - 20 The Diamonds - Jan 22 - 27 Herman’s Hermits Starring Peter Noone Jan 29 - Feb 3

64

Pam Tillis - Feb 5 - 10 Arrival From Sweden: The Music Of Abba Feb 12 - 17 Leonard, Coleman & Blunt: Former Lead Vocalists Of The Temptations, Platters & Drifters Feb 19 - 24 Rhythm In The Night - Feb 26 - March 3

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

65

Attractions & Museums

CONT

their friendship and its influence on the work of both artists, Dalí/Duchamp explores the common ground, both personal and aesthetic, shared by these two groundbreaking icons. This original exhibition brings together around 60 works, including some of Dalí’s most inspired and technically accomplished paintings and sculptures, and Duchamp’s ground breaking assemblages and ready-mades.

DR. CARTER G. WOODSON AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 2240 9th Ave.S, St. Petersburg. www.woodsonmuseum.org The museum presents the historic voice of one segment of the St. Petersburg Florida community in the perspective of local, regional, and national history, culture and community.

DUNCAN MCCLELLAN GALLERY 2342 Emerson Ave. S, St. Petersburg, 813.760.6600 www.dmglass.com 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk DUNEDIN FINE ART CENTER 1143 Michigan Blvd. - Dunedin, 34698. 727.298.

DFAC - www.dfac.org JANUARY 14 - FEB 4 - MINIATURE ART SOCIETY EXHIBIT 14 - 28 - BIG EYES - In this all-media juried exhibit, artists use Margaret Keane’s big-eyed waif paintings of children and animals from the 1960’s as a point of departure for their own present-day variation on the theme.

21 - JAMES MCNEIL WHISTLER: A Modernist Maverick in Victorian England. 2 - 4 pm. An entertaining account of Whistler’s genius, his turbulent career, and his extraordinary achievements as a pioneer Modernist painter in Victorian England.

FEBRUARY 16 - TRASHY TREASURES. For those unfamiliar with Trashy Treasures, the Bay area’s most loved art garage sale, it’s just that. People donate artworks that they’ve perhaps grown tired of, and art supplies they no longer need to DFAC. The Dunedin Fine Art Center then offers a select group for sale by silent auction for the event the evening of Fri, Feb 16th and then prices the rest of it to sell on a first-comefirst-served garage sale basis on Sat, Feb 17th. The DFAC party starts at 6:00 pm, with the art, cash bars, and music. Sat sale is from 10 am – 2 pm.

DUNEDIN WINE AND ART WALK - 2nd Fri of the Month Pioneer Park, Main Street and Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, 34698. www.2ndfridaydunedin.com/

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.

• Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $10 Adults; $8 seniors 62+; $4 ages 2 - 11 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100 66

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.stpete.org

Celebrate the second Friday of the month as downtown Dunedin merchants offer specials and discounts; browse the art exhibits, sip wine at tastings, enjoy food samplings, live entertainment and a drawing. Wristbands to get special offers from merchants and be eligible for prize drawing.

FLORIDA AQUARIUM 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2734000. www.flaquarium.org

Explore and learn about marine life at The Florida Aquarium. For all ages. Exhibits, Journey to Madagascar, Wetlands Trai, Bays and Beaches, Coral.

JANUARY 17 - Feeding Biology of Sharks & Other Preda-

tors. Dr. Motta will discuss the feeding adaptations of sharks, from jaws to teeth. 6:15 pm, Free. Complimentary reception at 5:45.

FLORIDA BOTANICAL GARDENS 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo , 727.582.2100. Closed weekends & County Holidays. www.flbg.org The Florida Botanical Gardens inspires and educates visitors by showcasing flora, fauna and natural resources in motivational surroundings that promote environmentally friendly techniques.

FLORIDA BOTANICAL GARDENS 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. 727-582-2100 www. flbg.org Free. Friendly dogs welcome on leash. Open daily.

Welcome Center is closed weekends & county holidays.

FLORIDA CRAFTART GALLERY 501 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.821.7391. www.floridacraftart.org Second Saturday Artwalk Mural Walk on Saturdays

FLORIDA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM 55 5th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. (727) 8200100. www.flholocaustmuseum.org CONTINUED

B

ig Cat Rescue is the world’s largest accredited sanctuary devoted to big cats. The nonprofit sanctuary is home to more than 70 lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, servals, caracals, and

various other exotic cats.

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 primarily supported by donation.

The facility offers a variety of guided educational tours at 14 set times during the week. Be aware that most tours are not open to children ages 9 and under. All ages tours are held Saturdays at 12 pm. They also offer private tours, field trips, birthday parties, and other events.

BCR, 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. For tour times and reservations, call 888-316-5875, or visit www.BigCatRescue.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

67

Attractions & Museums

CONT

pher uses 5 of the leading apps to edit photos on her phone.

FORT DE SOTO PARK Tierre Verde. 727.552.1862. www.pinellascounty. org/park/05_Ft_DeSoto.htm The park offers the greatest diversity of systems just about anywhere. Emerging from the wealth of bird life, sea life, wild life and plant life is the majestic tapestry called Fort De Soto.. Guided Nature Walks – Sat & Sun.

Upcoming 25th Anniversary Programs and Events The Florida Holocaust Museum (The FHM) has partnered with Eckerd College to release a 25th Anniversary oral history series titled “25 Survivors, 25 Stories... Celebrating 25 Years!” Over the next 25 months, the Museum’s series will feature a different Holocaust Survivor on the 25th of every month.

Each Survivor brings to the series an individual voice that enlivens our understanding of the Holocaust; the war’s effects on individuals, families, and communities dispersed across the world; and its reverberations into the present moment. In the coming months, The FHM will present numerous 25th Anniversary celebratory programs, events, and exhibitions.

FEBRUARY 10 thru ??? - OPERATION FINALE: THE CAPTURE & TRIAL OF ADOLF EICHMANN. “Operation Finale: The Capture & Trial of Adolf Eichmann” is the first exhibition in the United States to fully document the pursuit, capture, extradition, and trial of a Nazi war criminal. Also included in the exhibition is one of the most iconic objects of the century – the bulletproof glass booth in which the accused sat as the courtroom drama was broadcast around the globe.

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa, FL 33602, 813-221-2222. www.fmopa.org JANUARY 14 - iPhoneography 101. Learn how a pro photogra68

GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 443-3861. www.glazermuseum.org/ OCEAN SANDBOX! Move and shape the sand to create the ocean’s topography. Sculpt mountains, islands, underwater channels, and caves to see augmented reality marine landscape come to life with ocean creatures, treasure chests, and more SUNSHINE SUNDAY: Last Sunday Of Every Other Month 10am - 1pm. This program is a limitedengagement event for children with special needs and their caregivers. Children can explore the Museum with lights and sounds turned down and sensory adapted tools, special programs, and community resources at their fingertips.

JANUARY 13 - SCIENCE-TASTIC DAY: SAIL OR SINK? Build your own pirate ship then test the waters in KidsPort.

Mutiny at the Museum - a nod to Tampa’s Gasparilla heritage filled with pirate-themed parades, treasure maps, great storytelling, and more.

21 - THE BIG HUG. National Hugging Day. A group of inspiring kids is setting out to connect the world through a global group hug. Help break the Guinness World Record for the largest simultaneous

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

hug at 3pm.

FEBRUARY 10 - MINI MAKER: MAKING EDIBLES. Ever wondered what makes bread rise? Curious to learn how milk can turn into butter? Interested in making liquid Nitrogen ice cream!!?? Register for Mini Makers: Making Edible event to find out.

GREAT EXPLORATIONS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 1925 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. (727) 821-8992. www.greatex.org/ Science and humanities exhibits allow visitors to touch, move and actually become part of several pieces. First Sunday of month open special hours for special needs families.

MEMORY MONDAYS - First Monday of the Month.

Great Explorations Children’s Museum will launch a free monthly program for adults with memory loss, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the museum. Memory Mondays will be a private event focusing on art, music, and movement activities for adults with memory loss and their families and caregivers. Memory Mondays is a social engagement opportunity providing activities that encourage stimulation for people with early stage Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. This program will have music, art and movement components, and a variety of brain-stimulating

activities, along with creative ways to address nutritional choices and stress relief. Memory Mondays is a program that will provide a relaxing way for people living with memory loss and their caregivers to interact with others in a casual, judgment-free, nonclinical setting. Studies show that arts, music and movement activities release endorphins and reduce the stress caused by the challenges of living with memory loss. Also, music has been shown to provide personal connections and tap into emotional recall. www.greatex.org/programs/memory-mondays/ GULF BEACHES HISTORICAL MUSEUM 115 10th Ave, St Pete Beach 727-552-1610. www.gulfbeachesmuseum.com Only museum dedicated to the preservation of history of the local barrier island. Preserving island history for tomorrow’s generation.

GULFPORT 1ST FRI AND 3RD SAT ART WALKS 727-322-5217. Free. Beach Blvd., Gulfport. www.visitgulfporftlorida.com The Gulfport Art Walk event features new artists every first Friday and third Saturday each month and includes several different sculpture and paint mediums, jewelry, photography, folk art, upcycled items, handmade/designed clothing and accessories, body

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

CONTINUED

69

70

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Attractions & Museums

CONT

products, authors, entertainers and more. Live musicians appear at several venues throughout the waterfront district during Art Walks from 6-10 PM, year round.

18 - A History of the Belleview Biltmore

LOWRY PARK ZOO 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. 813) 9358552. www.lowryparkzoo.org

GULFPORT HISTORY MUSEUM 5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport. 727-327-0505. Free Admission. www.gulfporthistoricalsociety.org The Gulfport Historical Society preserves and celebrates Gulfport culture and history through exhibits and programs that educate and inspire the community and visiting public.

HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606. (813) 254-1891. www.ut.edu/plantmuseum JANUARY 19 - March 4. GASPARILLA: A TAMPA TRADITION explores Tampa’s premier party, attended by a motley crew of the famous and infamous, the beautiful people and bad dudes. Learn more about the early Gasparilla parades and enjoy vintage photographs from 1904 to the present. The Museum will feature three Gasparilla gowns designed by African American fashion designer, Ann Lowe, worn to Gasparilla Balls and Coronations in 1924, 1926, and 1957. In addition to early memorabilia and original gowns, visitors can enjoy film coverage on the celebration.

“Memories of Gasparilla Festivals” includes scenes from the 1920s and reveals pirate capers and images of early parades.

FEBRUARY 10 - Spencerian Script and American Penmanship 11 - Explore Victorian Valentines HERITAGE MUSEUM 100 Beekman Ln., Tarpon Springs. www.tarponarts.org History and culture of the Greek community JANUARY 30 - Lunch & Learn: Odd Scotland HERITAGE VILLAGE 11909 125th St N, Largo. 727.582.2123. www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage Free 21-acre living history museum. New exhibit Boathouse display.

Sundays – Speaking of History.

JANUARY 21 - A Brief History of Safety Harbor FEBRUARY

MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, 941.366.5731. www.selby.org MONDAYS – Yoga in the Garden JANUARY 11 - 20 Tips to Improve Your Photography 12 - From Smartphone to Fabulous 17 - Walking the Fragrant Path 18 - Gelli Plate Botanical Painting. Experience monoprinting without a press thanks to the gelli plate, a product that looks and feels like gelatin and can be used again and again.

20 - Growing Up WILD 24 - Poems of the Living World 24 - Adobe Light Room 25 - Herb Gardening in Containers 30 - Tropical Scenes in Watercolor 31 - Creating Natural Portraits w/Photography FEBRUARY 1 - Painting Flowers in Watercolor MOREAN ARTS CENTER 719 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727-8227872. www.moreanartscenter.org/

MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, 941.388.4441. www.mote.org Science, Education, Aquarium MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS 255 Beach Drive. NE, St. Petersburg, 727.894.4638. www.fine-arts.org Thru FEB 4 - MICKETT/STACKHOUSE: RECIPROCITY. This exhibition focuses on the col-

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

CONTINUED

71

Attractions & Museums

CONT

laborative practice of Carol Mickett and Robert Stackhouse, who have been working together for over ten years. Producing large-scale sculpture, paintings, and prints, the Mickett/Stackhouse team pushes one another out of their respective comfort zones. Mickett came to the partnership from a background in philosphy, radio, and theater, while Stackhouse followed a traditional visual arts path, with his work having been collected by museums including the Museum of Modern Art, New York, and the National gallery of Australia.

Through APRIL 1 - STAR WARS and The Power of Costume.

Lynch credit and debit cardholders in Tampa and St. Petersburg. Participating Tampa Bay area museums are: Florida Holocaust Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, and the Tampa Museum of Art. Present your B of A or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card along with a photo ID for free general admission.

MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY (MOSI) 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617. (813) 9876000. www.mosi.org Gaze skyward - Saunders Planetarium. IMAX Dome Theatre. Over 450 Hands-On Activities. Zip Line.

JANUARY 13 - SkyWatch REPLAY AMUSEMENT MUSEUM 119 Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs www.replaymuseum.org An Interactive museum with 100 pinball games, video games and other amusements from the past.

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN Crossley Gallery, 2400 Old Bradenton Road on the Ringling College campus, Sarasota, FL. JANUARY 30 - FEB 14 - WILL COTTON: PAINTINGS, PRINTS AND DRAWINGS.

JANUARY 14 - John Miller & Stephen Rolfe Powell 18 - Spotlight Lecture: Confluence 21 - Pick-a-Pic 23 - The Music of Star Wars FEBRUARY 2 - 4 - Wine Weekend 2018 11 - Deanna Clayton & Alexis Silk 13 - Costumes Across The Galaxy 14 - Coffee Talk w/Nan Colton MUSEUMS ON US - The First Full Weekend Of Each Month www.museums.bankofamerica.com Bank of America’s Museums on Us offers free weekend access to Bank of America and Merrill 72

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Will Cotton works primarily with only five colors he creates lush paintings full of vibrancy and life.

He paints utopian landscapes and portraits, composed of sugary desserts and candies, often inhabited by female figures. Widely recognized work of his includes the 2010 Katy Perry music video for “California Gurls,” for which he served as the artistic director.

The exhibition will include more than a dozen works ranging from oil paintings on linen and paper as well as sketches and prints.

vationists, Safety Harbor has an impressive history.

SEASIDE SEABIRD SANCTUARY 18328 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores.

727.391.6211. www.seabirdsanctuary.com

RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, 941.359.5700. www.ringling.org Mondays FREE admissions all day. Thurs – Art After 5 Thurs - Art After 5 Thurs through Sun - Joseph’s Coat Skyspace Third Thurs - Ringling by the Bay ($10) Fri - ROAR - Ringling Order of Art Readers Fri & Sat - Bayfront Garden Tours Sat - Kid’s Quest, Family Workshop JANUARY 28 - Forks & Corks: The Grand Tasting FEBRUARY 2 - A Book Conservator’s Journey to the Beginning 6 - Charlotte Perret, At Their Doorstep

SAFETY HARBOR MUSEUM 329 Bayshore Boulevard South, Safety Harbor. 727-7241562. www.cityofsafetyharbor. com/573/Museum-Cultural-Center The Safety Harbor area has long been an ideal place to live.

From the earliest peoples (20,000 B.C.E.) who hunted giant mammals on a peninsula twice the size of present day Florida, to our present city of dedicated preser-

Located on the Gulf Coast, the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is staffed by experienced professionals and dedicated volunteers who rescue and rehabilitate sick, injured, and orphaned birds. This is the largest non-profit wild bird hospital sanctuary. More than 100 birds live in the sanctuary, representing 20 species.Tours are available. FREE admission. Donations accepted.

The Sanctuary is in need of new volunteers to assist with everyday functions, care of permanent residents, and in the care of our wildlife patients. The need for the most volunteers include: Responding to calls from the pubCONTINUED

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

73

74

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Attractions & Museums

CONT

lic near their area & transport injured wildlife to the Sanctuary; Assist with daily feeding and cleaning of outdoor enclosures; Assist hospital staff with feeding baby birds during the spring rush of orphaned/injured baby birds, and other areas of need. If interested, call (727)391-6211 or visit in person. www.seabirdsanctuary.com SOUTH FLORIDA MUSEUM 201 10th Street West, Bradenton FL 34205. (941) 746-4131. www.southfloridamuseum.org/ The Parker Manatee Aquarium, designed to house three adult manatees, holds nearly 60,000 gallons of water, including a medical pool. The pool offers both deep and shallow water, allowing the manatees to maintain natural feeding behaviors. An exhibit area within the facility helps to educate the public about manatee anatomy and offers above and below water viewing. The Museum’s Parker Manatee Aquarium is a second stage rehabilitation facility which provides a temporary home for manatees that will be released back into the wild after having received treatment from an acute care hospital.

ST. PETERSBURG’S 2nd SATURDAY ARTWALK www.stpeteartsalliance.org

Over 40 galleries and studios in the Waterfront Arts District, Central Arts District, Edge District, Grand Central District, and the Warehouse Arts District come together as one arts destination. ArtWalk is Opening Night where many galleries and studios premiere new works. Some are only open on ArtWalk, and many offer demonstrations and refreshments. Plan to drive, walk or take the trolleys to visit the districts of your choice. Free parking can be found on 1st Ave N and 1st Ave S from 15th St. to 30th St. and at the Florida Holocaust Museum.

ST. PETERSBURG MUSEUM OF HISTORY 335 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg. 727.894.1052 www.spmoh.org Schrader’s Little Cooperstown is made up of more than 4,800 baseballs, documents, story boards and video screens – connects America’s national pastime with historical events from the region and around the world.

JANUARY Thru 21 - Signs of Our Times 18 - Happy Hour w/the Historian ST. PETERSBURG PRESERVATION WALKING TOURS Central Ave. & 2nd St, St. Petersburg (Oct. - Apr.) 727.824.7802. www.stpetepreservation.org National Register listed downtown. Free for members. Suggested donation non-members.

JANUARY 11 - Downtown Morning 13 -The Waterfront 20 - Historic Gulfport 27 - Westward Ho to Historic Kenwood FEBRUARY 3 - “Original”Downtown 6 - Downtown Morning 10 -The Waterfront ST. PETERSBURG WALKING MURAL TOURS Departing from Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Murals and history behind them.

727.821.7391 www.floridacraftart.org THE STUDIO @620 620 1st Ave. South, St. Petersburg FL 33701. 27895-6620. www.studio620.org JANUARY 13 - FEB 3 - S.I.P.P: Sharpie Ink Pen & Pencil Exhibit. Give a handful of artists the same simple tools and they’ll each create something unique and CONTINUED

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

75

Attractions & Museums

CONT

wonderful. SIPP: Sharpie, Ink, Pen & Pencil features a variety of styles from emerging and seasoned local artists, each carefully selected by Studio Curator Tyler Weiss and Artistic Director Bob Devin Jones.

Their tools may be every day objects, but this exhibit contains artwork that is anything but ordinary. With a focus on drawing, this exhibit features artwork that ranges from historically styled cartography to modern abstraction.

SUNKEN GARDENS 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. (727) 551-3102. www.sunkengardens.org/

Sunken 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. thru June 1, 2018 - AWAKEN 2 YOGA. Enhance your yoga practice by getting outside and into nature. Sunken Gardens offers a botanical experience of tropical splendor, the perfect backdrop for a yoga class. www.facebook.com/Awaken2Yoga TAMPA BAY AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM 3301 Gateway Centre, Pinellas Park.

727.579.8226, www.tbauto.org Unique collection of vintage cars and vehicles.

Cousteau Society Artifacts on exhibit.

TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER 801 Old Water St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2280097. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/ Thru - JAN 28, 2018. GATEWAYS TO THE CARIBBEAN: MAPPING THE FLORIDA-CUBA CONNECTION. For some, the connections between Florida and Cuba begin with Fidel Castro’s takeover in 1959.

For others, especially in Tampa, they begin 70 years earlier with the arrival of the cigar industry and the founding of Ybor City in 1886. In “Gateways to the Caribbean,” you’ll find an unbroken thread between

WWW.NETFLIX.COM

76

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

the Sunshine State and the island nation dating back nearly 500 years.

real archaeological sites. One Friday a month. 

TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, 813.259.1720. www.tampamuseum.org Friday - Art on The House - 4 to 8 pm Saturday - Art Spot for Families FEBRUARY thru 11 - Mernet Larsen thru April 1 - Made In Tampa TAMPA THEATRE 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2748981. www.tampatheatre.org/ A restored classic theatre showing modern independent and classic films. Pre-show Wurlitzer organ concerts.

TARPON SPRINGS HERITAGE MUSEUM 100 Beekman Lane, Tarpon Springs. www.Tarponarts.Org History and culture of the greek community TARPON SPRINGS HISTORIC DEPOT MUSEUM 160 E. Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs. 727.943.4624 Free Admission. www.tarponspringsareahistoricalsociety.org The Historic Train Depot Museum houses the office and Archives of the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society, which has filled the old station with exhibits telling the story of Tarpon Springs’ past.

WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS www.weekiwachee.com/ A natural tourist attraction where underwater performances by “mermaids”, women wearing fish tails as well as other fanciful outfits, can be viewed in an aquarium-like setting in the spring of the Weeki Wachee River.

A waterpark, Buccaneer Bay, and boat rides are also part of the attraction.

USF BOTANICAL GARDENS 4202 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL, 813-974-2329. www.gardens.usf.edu USF CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM 4202 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa. 813. 974.4133. www.ira.usf.edu JANUARY 12 - Climate Change: Cuba/USA Artist Symposium 15 - Pledges of Allegiance Flag Raising

WEEDON ISLAND PRESERVE 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg.

727.453.6500, www.weedonislandpreserve.org Ever wonder what archaeologists do with all that stuff they dig up at archaeological sites once the fieldwork is finished? Learn all about how artifacts and other archaeological material get processed in the laboratory; so, we can use them to learn about the past. You will get the chance to sort through, identify, and wash artifacts and other material from www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

77

Looking Good SWAROVSKI New Stackable

Compiled by Melissa Wolcott Martino

T

his season, Chamilia, a Swarovski company, is introducing new stackable rings. The entire Chamilia line is made from sterling silver or 14 karat gold and features genuine Swarovski Crystals and Swarovski Zirconia. “Stackable rings have been a popular offering from Chamilia since their introduction,” said Chamilia Vice President, Global Merchandising and Marketing Catherine Ottaviano. “Each year we introduce new styles that integrate into existing Chamilia collections so that our customer can continue to feed her need to stack and coordinate with what she is already wearing.” Items from Chamilia’s Spring 2018 collection will be available starting January 2018, and will be sold at the brand’s more than 1,000 retail partners worldwide and on the Chamilia website.

For more information please go to www.chamilia.com

ESTEE LAUDER Fragrances Classic and Alluring O

ver the years Estee Lauder Companies has extended its prestigious portfolio through the development of fragrances from world famous designers and celebrities which include; DKNY, Donna Karan, Michael Kors, Sean John and Tommy Hilfiger. Mrs. Lauder started her business with four skin care products and a simple premise: that every woman can be beautiful. Armed with that philosophy, plus perseverance, creativity and passion, she changed the face of the cosmetics industry.

Here are a few of the fragrances you should check out.

TORY BURCH - The first fragrance from Tory Burch captures classic elements in unexpected ways. Feminine and tomboy. Easy and polished. Floral peony and tuberose blend with crisp citrus notes of grapefruit and neroli — anchored by earthy vetiver.

MICHAEL KORS COLLECTION - Sexy Amber Eau de Parfum. The essence of sensual-chic in a sumptuous, nuanced fragrance that exudes allure with your every turn. Warm amber, wrapped in sandalwood and layered with white flowers.

DONNA KARAN Cashmere Mist Eau de Parfum - Inspired by the feel of cashmere, highlighted by essences of Orchid Flower, Bergamot For more information, and Moroccan Jasmine. visit A fragrance to seduce the www.elcompanies.com senses.

78

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

For more information, visit www.spony.com

SPONY

Convertible Women’s Ballcap

A

great accessory for any gal on the go to keep messy hair maintained. With the Convertible Women’s Ballcap, you can wear it closed like a regular ballcap or open up the back to flaunt that updo.

The cap has a back center seam constructed with

separable Velcro closure instead of sewn shut.

Added pockets inside cap keep Velcro on side flaps from coming in contact with hair. It can be worn as a regular closed ballcap and as an open-backed ponytail cap. Just open up back of cap for ventilation, and close up back for protection from rain or extreme weather. The Spony is made in the USA.

BACIANO DESIGN

Unique and Contemporary

E

veryone needs the ultimate cozy sweater in their wardrobe.Snuggle up in chic, designer sweaters and ponchos this winter and you won’t believe they are under $100. Inspired by the modern woman, Bacino collections are effortlessly chic and classic. Baciano’s designers focus on creating unique and contemporary outfits which stand out with sophistication and elegance, yet with a young and hip vibe.

At Baciano, they believe that “A classic never goes out of style.” After sketching by hand the designers use CAD technology to bring their unique designs to life. The design team is at the forefront of the fashion world, constantly searching for new colors, fabrics, silhouette, and trends.

Pictured here is the Cindy cardigan.

For more information, please www.visit bacciinc.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

79

2018 Is a Year to Celebrate with Toy Story Land Grand Opening, New Disney Springs Dining Concepts, a Theme Park Milestone and More AN EXPANDED FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS AT EPCOT - Jan 12 - Feb 19

Returning to Epcot for a second year, the expanded Epcot International Festival of the Arts will celebrate all things art – performing, visual and culinary – from January 12 to February 19 – with festivities running seven days a week and Disney on Broadway performing each weekend (Fridays through Mondays) throughout the festival.

Festival highlights: Seminars and workshops from top Disney, local and

80

nationally-renowned artists including classes on drawing animation, photography and the art of making topiaries.

More than a half a dozen specially-created food studios offering a wealth of “artistic” culinary delights.

A host of performing artists that build on the current lineup of authentic Epcot performers.

An encore performance of the Disney on Broadway series featuring Disney on Broadway stars singing favorite songs from award-winning Broadway shows.

Disney on Broadway dining packages, where guests can pair a meal at one of the participating Epcot restaurants with priority seating for the Disney on Broadway concert series.

For more information on the festival visit www.disneyworld.com/ArtfulEpcot or call 407-WDW-DINE (3463).

NEW DINING AND ENTERTAINMENT AT DISNEY SPRINGS

Eight new dining concepts debut at Disney Springs in 2018, joining the line-up of award-winning restaurants: Opening this winter, The Edison is a lavish “Industrial Gothic” restaurant, bar and nighttime destination that will feature live entertainment, including cabaret.

Adjacent to The Edison guests will enjoy a trio of modern Italian restaurant and bar concepts. Maria & Enzo’s will be an open and airy Italian trattoria featuring family-friendly dishes inspired by Sicily. Enzo’s Hideaway will pour Prohibition-era cocktails at its Tunnel Bar and offer hearty Roman dishes. Pizza Ponte will be the perfect place for a quick bite, with pastries, pizza, Italian sandwiches and espresso on the menu.

Levy Restaurants introduces Terralina Crafted Italian with James Beard award winner and “Top Chef Master” Chef Tony Mantuano. The new restaurant will feature dishes inspired by Mantuano’s adventures in Italy.

In spring 2018, Master Sommelier George Miliotes will bring his expertise to Disney Springs with Wine Bar George. With more than 100 wine selections by the bottle and glass, Miliotes will serve up wine education along with shareable plates, cheese and charcuterie.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Other openings include Jaleo, a Spanish concept by world-renowned Chef José Andrés’ ThinkFoodGroup, and Wolfgang Puck Bar & Grill, a modern concept inspired by laid-back California dining.

Dog Dash will be a family-style coaster.

Alien Swirling Saucers is designed as a play set that Andy got from Pizza Planet, inspired by the first “Toy Story” film. Famous little green aliens from the movie are flying around in their toy flying saucers and trying to capture your rocket toy vehicle with “The Claw.”

A third track has recently been added to Toy Story Mania!, which invites guests to take aim at 3D objects.

Woody’s Lunch Box will be a new quick-service window serving meals and old-fashioned soda floats.

DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM CELEBRATES 20 YEARS

TOY STORY LAND COMES TO DISNEY’S

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS - summer 2018

In summer 2018 Disney unwraps a toy-full surprise for its guests with the opening of the all-new Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Stepping into their favorite Pixar blockbuster films, guests will feel like they’ve shrunk to the size of a toy as they play in Andy’s backyard with their favorite Toy Story pals, including Woody and Buzz. Using toys like building blocks, plastic buckets and shovels and game board pieces, Andy has designed the perfect setting for this land. This new 11-acre play space will include two new attractions and one expanded favorite: Inspired by the dachshund spinoff of Slinky, Slinky

The 500-acre park is Disney’s largest, providing a grand stage for the celebration of the world of animals and their natural habitats. Live creatures from mite-sized to mammoth call Disney’s Animal Kingdom home. Lush landscaping, Broadway-quality live shows, conservation themes and rides, attractions and adventures for all ages complete the scene.

As the park continued to evolve, it added Pandora– The World of Avatar transporting guests to a mystical world of floating mountains, bioluminescent rainforests and new experiences.

And debuting just in time for the park’s 20th anniversary is a new show featuring Russell and Dug from Disney•Pixar’s film “UP” This new experience will offer guests the chance to see Senior Wilderness Explorer Russell and his furry friend Dug as they discover species of birds from around the world in their newest adventure at the Caravan Theater in Anandapur Village.

There will be close encounters each day with amazing winged creatures.

For more information, call 407-934-7639. Check online at www.DisneyWorld.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

81

T

ge by tino covera ino & Al Mar d n a art Photos lcott M o W a Meliss

he 2nd Annual Festival of the Arts at Disney World’s Epcot is in full swing, and will continue through February 19th. Combining visual, culinary and performing arts from around the world, the Festival of the Arts creates a global masterpiece.

I

ntroduce your inner aficionado to the annual Festival of the Arts, an exciting extravaganza replete with phenomenal artists, gourmet fare, musical performances, stage productions and other amazing acts. They’ve rolled everything you love about the arts into one spectacular salute. New for 2018, the Festival will remain open 7 days a week, with various entertainment offerings planned each weekend. So pack your palate—and your palette—because magic truly is in the eyes of the beholder. The festival is included with regular Epcot admission.

There is so much to see at the Festival, it makes sense to stay at one of the resorts most convenient to Epcot, such as the Boardwalk Inn, the Disney Yacht Club or the Beach Club. They are just a breezy walk over to the park, and have all the amenities you can ask for, not to mention some fine dining.

Enjoy hands-on workshops such as this design your own beautiful silk scarf using the ancient art of Japanese water marbling technique (located by Showcase Plaza.)

82

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

The shops have a lot of Festival of the Arts themed merchandise.

You can pick out your own T-Shirt, color and Festival of the Arts design and watch it being made.

W

Continued

There are different life-size painting sets you can walk into and take selfies such as Renoir’s “The Boating Party.” www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

83

s— g n i l p am tsy! r a Food s , s e nd y a . . . y t tas

84

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

This outstanding dish is Pork Roulade with Butternut Squash Puree, Marble Potatoes and Baby Carrots, with a Red Wine Sauce. Our fave!

W

Continued

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

85

Beauty and strength in the hands of talented acrobats can be found at various areas around the world showcase.

Enjoy fascinating seminars such as this one given by Mindy Johnson, author of Ink & Paint: The Women of Walt Disney’s Animation.

86

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Watch the magic happen as Disney artists can be found around the World creating their amazing works. They will also sign purchased pieces. Here Kyrstiano DaCosta is creating a piece using his wonderfully unique frames. Just fabulous!

Artist Rob Katz at work on his delightfully whimsical characters.

We caught the performances of Jenn Gambatese and Kevin Massey (both from the Disney Broadway musical “Tarzan” and other great shows.

Not to be missed are the performances of the Broadway Series, which feature different Broadway stars each week — all of them outstanding.

For more information on Epcot’s Festival of the Arts, please visit www.disneyworld.disney.go.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

87

ATTRACTIONS & EVENTS

Orlando Area

FAVO: PARTY ARTFULLY - Feb 2 Fashion parade, cultural confab and art-studio open house. Share a fun, free night with friends and family at Faith Arts Village Orlando. Tour the studios of 36 local artists and enjoy live music and food trucks at this vibrant arts complex that was once an abandoned motel. Located immediately north of Colonial between Highland Ave. and Irma Ave. Free parking inside the Highland Avenue entrance. Street parking near the Irma Avenue entrance.

407-222-1231. willbenton@faithartsvillage.com EMOTIONS DANCE - Untold Stories - Feb 2 - 3 Emotions Dance is a professional contemporary dance company that focuses on social and environmental awareness through the art of dance. The company emphasizes strong technical performances combined with passionate artistry. Untold Stories first premiered in

2008 and captured audiences with emotional stories about addiction, loss, and disease. The sixth installment of this performance will showcase new stories and choreography, but with the same message of courage, connection, and hope. Untold Stories hopes to bring attention to the emotional complexities that lie beneath difficult and touching issues, while also encouraging dialogue, understanding, and healing.

Mandell Theatre at the Lowndes Shakespeare Center (812 E. Rollins St. Orlando). 407-788-1659. www.emotionsdance.org WACKEN METAL FEST INVADES THE USA. ORLANDO BATTLE ONE. - Feb 3 The largest Open Air Metal Festival in the world comes to the USA. The Battles for the Southeast US, semi-finalists will travel to NYC for Finals, and the Over All winner will be headed to Germany for WACKEN 2018. So many great bands will compete, but there can be only one winner. Do YOU have what it takes? Round One will be held at the Haven Lounge. 7 PM - 1 AM. Haven Lounge, 6700 Aloma Ave, Winter Park, FL. 407-592-6587. www.metal-battle.com CARS FOR THE CURE HEATHROW AUTOMOTIVE FESTIVAL - Feb 9-10 The 14th Annual “Cars for the Cure” Heathrow automotive festival will be held at Colonial TownPark in Lake Mary, Florida. This charitable event is hosted by the American Lung Association. Lamborghinis, Bugattis, Porsche, and Aston Martins are just a few of the over 150 cars that will line the streets of Colonial TownPark. Central Florida’s 2017 Cars for the Cure will showcase an array of the most distinctive and unforgettable cars from around the world, with proceeds from the family festival to benefit the American Lung Association in Central Florida. www.carsforthecure. com/

KENDRA GIVES BACK PARTY - Feb 10 Grab your girlfriends and shop with Kendra Scott, from 11 am - 2 pm. Enjoy sips, sweets and jewelry while helping our neighbors in need. They will donate 20% of your purchase to Wine Women & Shoes, benefiting Second Harvest Food Bank of Central Florida.

Can’t attend in person? Phone in your order at 32188

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

251-3309 and receive complimentary shipping. Kendra Scott (Orlando Millenia), 4200 Conroy Rd, Suite M-221, Orlando, FL. 407-514-1006.

POLAR PLUNGE - Feb 10 Help raise money for Special Olympics Florida. Go to Plungefl.org and join the Special Olympics FloridaBrevard County Team or our Lil Pirates Team. Plunge into the cold waters and then enjoy fun at Aquatica waterpark. If you can’t join us on this day or just don’t want to get wet, you can still donate to the teams. 9 AM - 1 PM. Aquatica Orlando, 5800 Water Play Way, Orlando, FL. (352) 227-0266. Go to www.plungefl.org

ANDRETTI KARTING 9299 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819.

407.610.5020. www.andrettikarting.com/orlando/ Fulfil your need for speed at Andretti Karting, anº indoor go-kart facility. It features electronic go-karting, zip lines, bowling, racing simulators, a ‘sky bar,’ rock climbing, laser tag and a full-service restaurant.

CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS 3755 NW Hwy 17-92, Sanford, FL 32771. www.centralfloridazoo.org/

CONTINUED

PRAISE WAVE JAN 20 - FEB 10

W

STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN

LACRAE

ith the return of Praise Wave, guests can celebrate Christian fellowship and fun at SeaWorld Orlando. Uplifting, live concerts from the hottest names in Christian music will light up the stage at Nautilus Theater. Entertainment: STEVEN CURTIS CHAPMAN - Jan 20, LACRAE - Jan 27, SWITCHFOOT - Feb 3, MERCY ME - Feb 10.

www.seaworld.com/orlando/events/praise-wave/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

89

Attractions & Events

CONT

See over 500 animals representing 205 species.

Take to the sky and enjoy an aerial adventure course, ZOOm Air Adventure Park or bring your flip-flops and swimsuit to cool-off in the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground. See domestic animals in the Children’s Zoo, or see the Southeast’s largest collection of venomous snakes and non-venomous reptiles in the Herpetarium.

DINOSAUR WORLD 5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565. (813) 717-9865. www.dinosaurworld.com/florida/ Dinosaur World features over 150 life-size dinosaur sculptures in over 20 acres. Fossil dig, Dino Gem Excavation, Geode Cracker and more.

IFLY INDOOR SKYDIVING 8969 International Dr, Orlando,Florida. (407) 3374359. www.iflyworld.com/orlando/ Soar at IFLY Indoor Skydiving’s facility next to WonderWorks on International Drive, equipped with two allglass wind tunnels in an open single-story floor plan that allows I-Drive passersby to see fliers in action.

KISSIMMEE AIR MUSEUM - WARBIRD ADVENTURES 233 N Hoagland Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34741. 407870-7366. www.warbirdadventures.com/air_museum The Kissimmee Air Museum is located at the Kissimmee Gateway Airport in Kissimmee, FL. It houses vintage aircraft from World War II to the Vietnam War including an outdoor showroom.

GATORLAND 14501 S Orange Blossom Tr, Orlando, FL 32837.

(407) 855-5496. www.gatorland.com/ A 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve located along South Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando showcasing thousands of alligators and crocodiles including four extremely rare leucistic “white” alligators. The freeflight aviary, petting zoo, one of a kind animal shows, natural alligator breeding marsh, and the “thrilling” Screamin’ Gator Zip Line.

B Jan 26 - 28

CELEBRATION OF HARRY POTTER

e a part of a magical 3-day event presented by Warner Bros. and Universal Orlando Resort. Catch film talent Q&A sessions featuring Stanislav Yanevski (Viktor Krum), James Phelps (Fred Weasley), Oliver Phelps (George Weasley) and more. You can also enjoy special panels, demonstrations and new surprises. It’s an unforgettable experience where the magic of Harry Potter continues.

www.universalorlando.com 90

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

LEU GARDENS 1920 N. Forest Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32803.

407.246.2620. www.leugardens.org JANUARY 6 - thru april 22 - NATURE CONNECTS - ART WITH LEGO BRICKS. An award-winning outdoor exhibit which will delight all ages: Nature Connects Art with LEGO Bricks by Artist Sean Kenney. Nature Connects features many larger-than-life sculptures built with LEGO bricks. Over 450,000 bricks were used to bring nature to life. Imagine a 6-foot hummingbird hovering over a trumpet flower or seeing a family of deer grazing on the grassy vista. This exhibit features 16 sculptures in 13 displays throughout the 50-acre garden.

27 - CONNECT WITH NATURE DAY - a special family fun-filled day exploring nature and how everything in nature connects together, including hands-on activities, crafts, and a scavenger hunt. From 9:00 a.m.

- 3:00 p.m.

FEBRUARY 14 - VALENTINE’S CONCERT - Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a romantic concert at Leu Gardens featuring Ricky and the Buzzcatz, 7:00 pm - 10:00 pm.

Thru Dec - MOVIES AT LEU GARDEN . Experience movies outdoors. Leu Gardens offers a unique setting to see a classic or current feature film. Each month from February to December, no movie in July. Movie goers may bring dinner picnics including alcohol and

seating (chairs or blanket) then sit back and enjoy an outdoor movie. Feature Presentations: Feb 2 - Groundhog Day; March 2 - TBD - hopefully The LEGO Movie; April 6 - Rogue One. MADAME TUSSAUDS 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866630-8315. www2.madametussauds.com/orlando/en/

CONTINUED

LEGO NINJA DAYS Weekends Jan 20 - Feb 4

C

lebrate your favorite ninja heroes with an all-new event, featuring LEGO NINJAGO: Master of the 4th Dimension - the new theatrical 4D experience. Event activities include: Watch the new 4D film • Meet Master Wu for the first time ever • Test your yoga skills with Ninjoga courses for kids • Participate in giant LEGO NINJAGO builds • Meet Lloyd from THE LEGO NINJAGO MOVIE (event weekends only) • Become the ninja at LEGO NINJAGO World featuring: NINJAGO The Ride • Ninja training camp activities • Meet-and-greets with Kai and Nya

www.Legoland.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

91

Attractions & Events

CONT

Madame Tussauds Orlando’s interactive guest experience in the themed room features Brazilian soccer star Neymar da Silva Santos Jr. The attraction has added a one-of-kind customized camera system that utilizes multiple cameras to stitch together a unique photo of fans interacting with Neymar’s figure. The camera technology captures 40 photos in less than one second to produce a GIF image. Guests receive the GIF via email to share with friends. Pose for the paparazzi’s on the red carpet with today’s biggest celebrities.

MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 900 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. (407) 246-4278. www.mennellomuseum.com/ Once the private home of Howard Phillips, son of local philanthropist Dr. P. Phillips. Changing exhibitions featuring American art of all genres and time periods, including original as well as traveling shows.

MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 445 North Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789.

407-645-5311. www.morsemuseum.org/

ORLANDO EYE 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866228-6438. www.officialorlandoeye.com The Orlando Eye is one of the newest attractions in Orlando and the largest observation Ferris Wheel on the East Coast.

ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART 2416 Mills Ave N, Orlando, FL 32803. (407) 8964231. www.omart.org STATE OF EXCELLENCE: TREASURES FROM FLORIDA PRIVATE COLLECTIONS - Jan 26 – April 29. The exhibition presents 130 outstanding works of art from private collections throughout the State. Focusing on American and European art, the exhibition includes painting, sculpture and significant decorative artworks from the 16th through the mid-20th century. Showcasing art and collections that are not otherwise available to the public, the exhibition provides opportunities to learn about the importance of private collections to cultural vitality, collecting philosophies and the art of connoisseurship. Additionally, State of Excellence will bring new recognition to the depth and breadth of collecting in the State today.

A collection of the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany as well as fine 19th and 20th century American decorative arts.

OLD TOWN 5770 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746. (407) 396-4888. www.myoldtownusa.com/ Old Town is an amusement park with rides and outdoor shopping mall. Wednesday night is the Little Darlins’ Street Party while a cruise of classic cars are the free entertainment every Saturday night. A rock and roll band (specializing in tunes from the 1950s and the 1960s) plays prior to the classic car cruise.

ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. (407) 5142000. www.osc.org/ Exhibits are designed to inspire curiosity and exploration. The Science Live! programs are designed to bring the exhibits to life. Whether it’s a show in the Digital Adventure Theater or a one-to-one interaction with a volunteer at the Crosby Observatory, the live programs 92

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

create the kind of impact that can last a lifetime.

ORLANDO REPERTORY THEATRE 1001 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. 407-896-7365. www.orlandorep.com Creating experiences that enlighten, entertain, and enrich the lives of family and young audiences.

Jan 16 - 20. Pip Squeak: An AntiBullying Magic Show Jan 28 - The Jazz Fly Jan 29 - Feb 5 - Flora & Ulysses.

Feb 26 - April 8 - Madagascar - A Musical Adventure.

ratesdinneradventure.com/ Set aboard an authentically replicated 18th-century Spanish galleon measuring 46 feet long, 18 feet wide with 40-foot masts, the ship is anchored in a 300,000-gallon indoor lagoon with night sky lighting.

Surrounding the lagoon is a six-sided showroom of six additional ships where the audience is seated.

Voyagers on each of the six ships have their own pirate mascot whom they cheer on as the adventure unfolds with a cast a dozen actors, singers and stunt performers engaging in action-packed exploits, accompanied by cannon blasts, pyrotechnics and plenty of laughs.

In addition, more than 150 guests have the chance to play an actual role in each show as the evil Captain Sebastian the Black leads his crews of renegades on a swashbuckling adventure before your very eyes.

POLK MUSEUM OF ART 800 E Palmetto St, Lakeland, FL 33801, (863) 688-7743. www. polkmuseumofart.org The Polk Museum of Art at Florida Southern College is a teaching museum that enhances lives through inspirational and engaging art experiences for all.

ORLANDO SEALIFE AQUARIUM 8449 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866-622-0607. www. visitsealife.com/orlando/ Sea Life Orlando will transport you into a magical underwater world filled with a dazzling array of amazing creatures. From faceto-face encounters with sharks, to a hands-on touchpool experience, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy at the newest aquarium in Orlando.

PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE 6400 Carrier Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. (407) 206-5100. www.piwww.AccentOnTampaBay.com

93

Casino Gaming Scene Las Vegas FRANK SINATRA’S GRANDDAUGHTER AJ LAMBERT at THE SPACE starting Jan 12 www.thespacelv.com For the first time ever, Frank Sinatra’s granddaughter, AJ Lambert will perform in Las Vegas with a monthly residency at The Space beginning Jan 12. AJ will rotate between performing two of her grandfather’s albums – the 1955 “In The Wee Small Hours,” as well as his 1958 “Only The Lonely.” In this show, AJ shares her deeply intimate recollections of her grandfather Frank Sinatra while singing the iconic albums in their entirety.

INFERNO BRINGS THE HEAT TO PARIS LAS VEGAS starting Jan 24 www.caesars.com The heat is on this winter as Inferno, the fire spectacular that has taken Europe and Asia by

94

storm, lands at Paris Las Vegas. A dazzling display of pyrotechnics, fire stunts and spectacular illusions, Inferno has been called “a perfect show that surprises over and over again.” Led by European illusionist Joe Labero and the fire, pyro and aerial group, The Fuel Girls, INFERNO blends deathdefying stunts, illusions and fire into a gasolinesoaked spectacular.

RENEGADES DEBUTS AT CLEOPATRA’S BARGE AT CAESARS PALACE - Jan 25 www.caesars.com The rebels of sports are taking over the Las Vegas Strip with Renegades, a new interactive and unique show. Renegades gives sports fans an up-close and personal experience with three of their favorite sports stars. The starting line-up includes baseball great Jose Canseco and two-time Super Bowl champion Jim McMahon. The Fab Five’s Jimmy King will appear during the first eight

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Continued....

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

95

Las Vegas cont shows, with six-time NFL Pro Bowler Terrell Owens taking over starting Thursday, Feb. 8. The shows will be hosted by comedian Martin Montana, and its roster will rotate athletes every three months.

THE VOICE: NEON DREAMS TO DEBUT AT HARD ROCK HOTEL in June www.thevoicevegas.com The Voice: Neon Dreams is the live concert event that is the next step in the musical journey of the talented artists of The Voice, combined with an interactive pre-show experience that allows you to begin your very own Voice journey. In this 360-degree live production, a cast of Voice stars, accompanied by versatile musicians will deliver a wide-ranging performance through timeless hits and current chart toppers from the world of rock, pop, country, R&B and more.

PITBULL RETURNS IN 2018 TO HEADLINING PLANET HOLLYWOOD www.caesars.com Pitbull will return to The AXIS at Planet Hollywood in 2018 for 13 performances of his hit show, “Time of Our Lives.”

Planet Hollywood has also completed a $100 million room renovation, pairing dynamic entertainment and dining offerings with contemporary new guest rooms and suites.

PARK THEATER • Jan 17 - Feb 25

A

worldwide superstar for more than six decades with over 100 million records sold, Cher is set to perform at Park Theater. From concerts to television, film and beyond, the Oscar, Emmy, GRAMMY and Golden Globe Award-winning Goddess of Pop continues to break the mold of a traditional performer. Be prepared for an incomparable, intimate entertainment experience with the legendary talent.

www.montecarlo.com

96

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

DEAL ME IN

with Mark Pilarski

www.markpilarski.com/ Dear Mark: Please help me save my marriage. A while back, my wife and I were in a local casino in Reno. She was playing Megabucks. We were there for about two hours, and she had about $350 invested in the machine. I was tired and told her I wanted to go, so she reluctantly cashed out the remaining $50 she had in the machine, and we headed to the casino cage to cash the ticket.

After getting cash for the ticket we headed for the door. This took us right past the machine she had been playing just a few minutes earlier. All of a sudden we heard loud screaming. A lady sitting at the same machine she was just playing minutes before hit the Megabucks jackpot…over 11 million dollars.

The lady explained she had just sat down and had put in $10 and on her third spin of the wheel she hit the progressive payout. My wife turned to me and said, “you idiot.”

I was stunned but realized what she was thinking. Had I not asked her to leave, she thinks she would have won that jackpot. I explained to her that that may not necessarily be true. But, almost every day she berates me for getting her off that machine.

I told her that just because that woman won the jackpot within three spins of her leaving, doesn’t mean she would have won if she took three more

Chance, Not Persistence Determines the Winning Spin spins. From what I understand, the RNG has to be hit at the exact same time for her to have won and it’s unlikely her staying would have accomplished that feat.

Please help me explain that to her and save my marriage, as I think she will never forget or forgive me without your expert help in explaining it to her.

Anonymous Gaming author Barney Vinson once said, “The likelihood of lining up four Megabucks symbols is somewhere in the cosmos between Jupiter and Mars, and even a spokesman at IGT would not admit to the mathematical probability of hitting one of the blasted things.” Vinson may have been a tad bit liberal with his calculations, in that, the IGT Megabucks machine DOES have an infinitesimal chance of hitting. Nonetheless, your appeal to your wife as to “whose” Megabucks jackpot it was, is correct.

Often martial bliss gets confrontational due to misinformation about how a slot machine operates. You wife believed that the Megabucks jackpot should have www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

hers, and you got in the crossfire because your wife, dare I say it, is uninformed. That notwithstanding, your marriage may benefit from an “apology” with a nice expensive gift; fact may not overcome belief but love may well vanquish heartache.

The fact is all modern slot machines come equipped with a random number generator, with symbol combinations constantly changing countless times every millisecond, making the lady sitting front and center when the winning spin hit the rightful owner of the Megabucks jackpot, not you wife. Besides, even if she were to have stayed those few extra minutes, just one sip of a cocktail, a sneeze, or even a blink of an eye would have thrown her interstellar synergy completely off whack.

A slot machine’s RNG continues to crunch those 1s and 0s as many as a million combinations per minute until someone hits the spin button. This is why, unless your wife had pushed the spin button at the exact millisecond the eventual winner did, she would not have been treated to the winning jackpot. It was pure chance that the RNG generated the winning combination when it did and dumb luck that the player hit the spin button at the exact moment when that winning combination was generated. Your wife’s odds of a champagne wishes and caviar dreams lifestyle would have remained the same if she had continued to play:48 “Millions and millions and millions to one.”

– Carl Sagan 97

Casino Gaming Scene cont

Biloxi What’s happening at the Beau Rivage www.beaurivage.com

L

ocated 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 Sun Country 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. The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport.

Golfers will definitely want to experience Fallen Oak, Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevations and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and wetlands.

tery Multiplier promotional tile. Promotion days are Mondays and Wednesdays.

Wednesday’s are for seniors at the Beau Rivage Buffet. Seniors can bring their identification to receive half off a breakfast or lunch. Seniors age 50+ receive the discount from 7:00 a.m.-2:30 p.m.

7th Annual Million Dollar Heater Jan 4-15. The Million Dollar Heater is a poker players’ paradise with $1,000,000 in guaranteed prize pools and 65 tables.

The schedule starts with a $600,000 guaranteed event with an entry fee of $300 +$45 + $10, and the main event features a $300,000 guaranteed prize pool with an entry fee of $2,500 + $200. Play and stay with a special $59 weekday and $119 weekend room rates.

Call 1.888.567.6667 for reservations.

Holiday Hangover $50,000 Blackjack Tournament Jan. 21 – 23. Guests can play for a chance to win a share of $50,000 in cash & tableplay. Once registered, guests will receive an additional $1,000 in tournament chips towards Round One. Lap of Luxury $250,000 Giveaway thru Feb 24.

Guests can play for a chance to win a share of $250,000 in prizes including a shopping spree in The Jewelry Box and a Mercedes-Benz. Drawing days are every Sat beginning at 5 p.m. Grand Prize Drawing Days: Sat, Jan 27 drawing for $50,000 shopping spree in The Jewelry Box. Sat, Feb 24 drawing for a Mercedes-Benz Shake, Rattle & Reel $100,000 Slot Tournament Jan. 25 – 27. Cast your lines and reel in a share of $100,000 in cash and FREEPLAY. Tournament is open to the public and invited guests.

HEADLINE ENTERTAINMENT

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 888.640.8973. www.beaurivage.com

EVENTS

M life reward members can win up to 20X points by visiting a M life Rewards kiosk and activating the Mys98

RIVERDANCE - Jan 12 - 14 ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK: The Prodigal Son Tour - January 19 - 20 STARSHIP Featuring MICKEY THOMAS - Jan 26 RODNEY CARRINGTON - Feb 2 - 3 CHAKA KHAN - Feb 9 TIM ALLEN - Feb 16

MARY J. BLIGE - Feb 23 - 24 KANSAS - March 16 TIFFANY HADDISH: #SHEREADY - March 17

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

WWW.BEAURIVAGE.COM/FLIGHT

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

99

by Dr. Lori Verderame

Making the Old Stuff New Again

T

here are many DIY projects and repurposing options when it comes to antiques, but right off the bat, I want to warn you know the value of your keepsakes, heirlooms, and treasures before your start repurposing anything. Get a quick and easy online appraisal from me so you know if your piece is too valuable to repurpose at www.drloriv.com.

Once you know the true value of your antique and you are comfortable with your plan to repurpose it, consider these tips to make something old feel and look new again.

Tip 1: Repurpose something that is a multiple for greater impact. If you have many dissimilar items, you can always make them seem like a group by uniting them with a uniform paint or stain color.

You can also unite related objects by putting them together in a re-purposing project. For instance, if you have a bunch of old doorknobs or door handles, repurpose this group of similar objects. Take the group of mix-matched glass, porcelain, or metal doorknobs and install them in your guest bathroom to create useful, vintage towel hooks. Arrange the group of doorknobs on a wall near the tub or shower as handy hooks.

Tip 2: Go all the way! Don’t be afraid to really change an antique. For instance, if you love your grandmother’s high chair but you would really like to put it to good use in your home instead of just having it sit in a corner as a display piece, remove the arms and tray and re-purpose the high chair as a child’s chair. It will look cute in a child’s playroom, a grandparent’s den, or a dining room. Be sure you know what you are doing when repairing and refinishing wood pieces and search online for helpful hints.

Tip 3: Re-think the scraps. Do you have a cedar chest filled with old textile pieces like parts of crocheted afghans? Needlepoint pictures that will never see the light of day? Quilted squares that were never made into a full quilt? If you know that you will never complete these projects, don’t despair. Frame them up and enjoy a great graphic picture of your crochet, quilt square of needlepoint picture. Remember to

100

Door knob towel holders

use acid free materials whenever you frame textiles or any antique piece. Install the framed textiles on an interior wall away from direct sunlight to prevent the item from fading and sun damage.

Repurposing is a fun way to integrate antique pieces into a contemporary home and to enjoy the process of sprucing up something old.

Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning TV personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide. Dr. Lori is the expert appraiser on the international hit TV shows, The Curse of Oak Island on History channel and Auction Kings on the Discovery channel. Visit www.DrLoriV.com or call (888) 431-1010.

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

101

COOLSTUFF N E H C T I K IN THE

MAMA MANCINI’S

Fully Prepared All-Natural Italian Products

I

f you love meatballs and don’t have time to make them yourself (or even if you do), Mama Mancini’s makes delicious products that are home style, old world Italian food created from recipes Dan Mancini’s grandmother, Anna, brought with her to America. Mama Mancini’s Meatballs and Slow Cooked Italian Sauce is prepared the exact way they were made so many years ago. The meatballs are made from 100% beef, whole fresh eggs, Romano cheese, onion, parsley, a pinch of salt and pepper and the exact amount of bread crumbs. They are formed by hand and lightly browned. They are then placed in slow cooked Italian sauce which is pure Italian plum tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, some salt and pepper and a bay leaf and slowly cooked for three hours.

The products are sold fully cooked with sauce and all you need to do is heat them up. MamaMancini’s product line of meatballs, stuffed meatballs, slow cooked sauces, Meatloaf, Stuffed Peppers are available at markets all across the country.

Pictured: Mama Mancini’s Stuffed Meatballs with Five Cheese Centers

www.mamamancinis.

DEEP EDDY VODKA Handcrafted Spirits www.deepeddyvodka.com

D

eep Eddy Vodka is handcrafted in their Texas distillery by a team serious about creating a great spirit. The vodkas are column-distilled 10 times using corn, the finest Texas water and natural flavors, producing smooth, clean vodka. Deep Eddy Vodka has zero byproduct or waste. Everything that goes through their column either burns up in the process or ends up in the bottle. All Deep Eddy vodkas are made with premium juices, essential oils, natural sweeteners & local honey. The Deep Eddy lineup: VODKA - Distilled from corn which is naturally gluten free, distilled 10 times and charcoal filtered; RUBY RED - Flavored from a proprietary blend of real ruby red grapefruits from the best growers in America; SWEET TEA - Made from Indonesian whole leaf black tea & lightly sweetened with local organic clover honey; CRANBERRY Made with real cranberries harvested from a family-owned farm in Massachusetts; LEMON - An Austin original, made with all-natural, real lemon juice; PEACH - Handcrafted in our their distillery from real peaches and award winning vodka; ORANGE - Made with the freshest blend of real oranges and mixed with award winning Original Vodka.

102

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

FREEZINda Whey Protein Powder Frozen Dessert www.freezinda.com

I

f you drink a lot of protien shakes, you can shake up your routine with FREEZINda - a delicious alternative to your old shake. FREEZINda is a 150 calorie dessert mixture that consists of a liquid & dry mix. It takes just 90 seconds to mix FREEZINda into a whey protein shake (made with 50 grams protein using your own whey protein powder plus 1 cup water or milk). Place it in the freezer, and it will turn into an ice cream like frozen dessert in 14 hrs. Using whey protein is the preferrable choice. Depending on the protein you use, your dessert will either taste like an icy sorbet, or more like ice cream.

FREEZINda packages contain 3 one-half cup servings per container.

NUNI Tortilla Toaster Make Tacos Faster

T

ired of flipping tortillas at the stove? This is the perfect gift for the taco lover. You can heat 6 tortillas at a time. No more standing over the pan heating one tortilla at a time, or heaven forbid heat them in the microwave. An automatic shut-off deactivates the unit after each toasting cycle. Once the toasting cycle is complete simply rotate to release the tortillas from the unit.

The toaster has a 6-slot capacity, and is corn, flour, and wheat tortilla friendly. There are 5-shade settings, and the unit is made for 6� tortillas or smaller.

The Nuni Toaster provides the same authentic taste as the Mexican comal, but with the convenience and ease of use of the microwave.

For more information on the Nuni, please visit

www.nunitoaster.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

103

The “I Wanna Go There!” Travel Page

F

Kenton, Oklahoma

or the ultimate Western experience, hitch your horse and hang up your cowboy hat at one of Oklahoma’s authentic guest ranches. Slow down, leave the hustle and bustle of the cities behind, and let the lure of the Old West whisk you away on a genuine cowboy adventure. These Oklahoma guest ranches invite you to earn your spurs with endless Western-themed activities: learn to rope, hone your rifle skills, or even shoot a bow and arrow before feasting on a fine chuckwagon meal around a crackling campfire.

From the rugged panhandle to Oklahoma’s rolling hills, guest ranches across the state are ready to provide the ultimate dude ranch vacation. Rough-it in style with a stay in an authentic teepee at Meadowlake Ranch in Sand Springs or enjoy the comforts of a cozy cabin at Tatanka Ranch in Stroud after a day of exploring the surrounding scenery on horseback.

For a taste of genuine cowboy life, check out Hoot Owl Ranch in Kenton and join the owners in a beautiful canyon for hiking, bird watching, horseback riding and more; or, join a cattle drive at Hitching Post Ranch and hop aboard the Hitching Post stagecoach to witness Oklahoma’s deep-rooted Western heritage come to life.

www.travelok.com 104

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com