At the Gulf Shore Winter 2023-24

At the

Gulf Shore YOUR SOURCE FOR LOCAL ART, ENTERTAINMENT & FUN

TAMPA BAY’S

Bucs & Lightning They’re More than Just the Game

Winter Festivals in your area Cold Weather Fishing Flounder | Snook| Trout

WINTER 2023-24

Hernando County’s Best Kept Secret Downtown Sidewalk

CHALK ART

Winter 2023-24

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LOCAL FOCUS

ART SCENE

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At the Gulf Shore

EDITORIAL Publisher

Michele Salvadeo editor@atthegulfshore.com Contributing editors

George Hastick Sierra Hill Ashley Parkin

SOCIAL MEDIA AND ADVERTISING

Ashley Poole marketing@atthegulfshore.com

IMAGES

Photos and art credited to the artist/ company on the corresponding pages.

Other images are copyrighted by “At the Gulf Shore”.

SUBSCRIPTIONS AND FEEDBACK www.atthegulfshore.com

ADVERTISING 352-683-2019

4210 Commercial Way #1044 Spring Hill, FL 34606

© At the Gulf Shore

All material is strictly copyright and all rights are reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without the written permission of At the Gulf Shore magazine is strictly forbidden.

The greatest care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of information in this magazine at time of going to press, but we accept no responsibility for omissions or errors.

Cover photo by Adobe Stock. Photos not credited on corresponding pages are also Adobe Stock or copyrighted by At the Gulf Shore.

Back Cover Photo by Emily Riness

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At the Gulf Shore

Hernando Beach: A Sweet Spot

“An Impressionistic Approach”

Hernando Beach in Hernando County offers enjoyable activites like fishing, bird watching and shopping

Watercolor artist Donna Morrison captures the spirit of the true Florida

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“Expressive in a literal way...”

Melissa Miller Nece, a fine artist and teacher who inspires award-winning art students

Contents

AROUND TOWN

SPOTLIGHT

LIFESTYLE

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The Gulf Shore area offers an abundance of festivals in your town

These stellar teams, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Lightning, shine on their communities with more than just their game

The variety of fish during the winter season in the gulf keeps fishing enthusiasts busy

The Bucs & Lightning

Editor’s Letter

The Gulf Shore of Florida’s West Coast is a magnificent area filled with many places to explore and talented people. The reason why I publish this magazine is to provide small businesses and all types of artists with an avenue through which they can be promoted.

As we come to the end of another year, let’s look forward and adventure into 2024 with positive energy. I challenge you to think of a place or business that you feel is unique to the area. There are so many small businesses we need to support. We sometimes take for granted the colorful landscape here in our local parks, neighborhoods, and forget about the habitants that were here before us. We need to preserve nature and its habitants too..

At the Gulf Shore magazine will take you to some places or events that maybe you have never heard of. We ask that you, our residents, and visitors, add to our eclectic mix of content by offering your feedback via our website www.atthegulfshore.com.

Tampa and our surrounding areas are developing into a new wave of population. Along with beautiful sunsets, delicious cuisines, and trendy music spots, we are enveloped in a vast pool of talent. If you encounter a cool band or visit a unique place, let us know. We are always open to hearing what our readers are interested in.

Winter Fishing

For businesses and talented artists, we want this to be your magazine. At the Gulf Shore magazine wants this to be a source for elevating exposure. With the area’s growth, this is a super great time to gain that exposure. We are happy to assist our neighbors with that by providing content for our interested readers and by showcasing small businesses.

Photo by Jeremy Scott

Festivals in your Area

It has been an honor to speak and meet all of you who have provided me with your time for interviews, responses to my inquiries and advertising. Without you, the magazine wouldn’t have been possible. Thank you for sharing your interesting businesses, hard work, and guidance. I hope that you enjoy this issue and I look forward to the next issue slated for Spring 2024.

Michele Salvadeo Publisher

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The TEAMwork

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At the Gulf Shore

of Tampa Bay Tampa is home to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the Tampa Bay Lightning, both of which lend a hand to their communities through a variety of organizations ANYTIME is a perfect time to be in the Tampa Bay area if you love sports. We’re halfway through football season and the NHL hockey season just started! From the moment Tampa got its teams, the hometown support has been through the roof, from the very first owners to the naming of the teams and all their charity work that the teams do. The Tampa Bay sports scene is involved in the everyday lives of the people they represent.

It is an interesting fact of how the Tampa Bay Buccaneers got their name. The Buccaneers officially got their name in 1975 when the rookie team’s new owner Hugh F. Culverhouse, decided to make naming the team a city-wide effort by having a “Name-the-Team” contest.

With over 400 submissions received, Culverhouse and the local sports writers chose the name that resembled the long history of the Gasparilla invasions of the “Buccaneers.” The name “Buccaneers” came from the historic raiding and shipwrecks caused by the pirate Jose Gaspar of Gasparilla, who terrorized the coasts of western Florida in the late 18th and early 19th centuries.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ Hugh F. Culverhouse, was very active in the league affairs and with the management of the team. While with the Bucs, Culverhouse was the chairman of both the executive committee of the NFL management council and the NFL finance committee.

Because of this, he is considered one of the most influential owners of the NFL! Today Culverhouse is the senior member of the law firm Culverhouse & Botts in Tampa. He holds membership in Jacksonville, Hillsborough County, and the American Bar Association, as well as Raymond James Stadium, home for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Photo courtesy of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

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the Florida Bar and the Alabama State Bar. Even with a full schedule, Culverhouse has still found time to be a part of civic projects throughout the southeast, supporting the Center of Swallowing Disorders, the Eye Institute and the Child Abuse Council among many others.

Today the Buccaneers are owned Joel Glazer, an American businessman who is part of the family that controls First Allied Corporation, HRG Group, and another sports club called Manchester United Football Club of the Premier League. Glazer will be going into his 29th season with the Buccaneers overseeing the day-to-day operations. Since Glazer has been with the team, we have seen the Buccaneers in 10 playoff appearances; at one stretch between Tampa Bay Buccaneers / Philadelphia Eagles

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At the Gulf Shore

New Orleans Saints / Tampa Bay Buccaneers; Photos on this page courtesy of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay Buccaneers at their player-led “Buccaneers Youth Leadership Program” which is in its fourth year. Photo courtesy of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Steven Stamkos, Tampa Bay Lightning

Who thought that ice hockey wouldn’t be a favorite sport in this area? The Tampa Bay Lightning are the area’s other champion team. The Tampa Bay Lightning name was also inspired by the history of Florida but this time by its historical weather patterns. Founded in 1992, Phil Esposito, the president of the Tampa Bay Lightning at the time, was inspired by a large thunderstorm in the summer of 1990. Esposito said that the lightning he saw that night reminded him of the lightning pace of a hockey game as well as the common weather

Photograph by Emily Riness

1999-2002, in which Tampa had been the only team in the NFL to appear in the postseason all four years. While under Glazer’s leadership, we have seen the team win six division titles, two NFC championships, and two Super Bowls.

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Victor Hedman, Tampa Bay Lightning

patterns that can be seen in the Tampa Bay area. And so, Tampa’s hockey team was named the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The first owner of the Tampa Bay Lighting, Phil Esposito, was a former Canadian and professional ice hockey player. Esposito represented three National Hockey League teams while on the ice which included the Chicago Blackhawks, the Boston Bruins, and the New York Rangers. He also has won the Stanley Cup twice. Before becoming a coach, he eventually took ownership of the Tampa Bay Lightning in 1992. After losing his regional manager position for the New York Rangers, Esposito came to Florida, and shortly after became a part of the Tampa Bay Lightning franchise. Today, Phil Esposito still works in the Tampa area as Tampa Bay’s radio color commentator for home games on 102.5 FM WHPT The Bone.

Today’s Tampa Bay Lightning owner Jeff Vinik, has created a fan experience extremely tailored for the families of the Tampa Bay area like no other. Vinik is now going into his 13th

Nikita Kucherov, Tampa Bay Lightning

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At the Gulf Shore

Brayden Point, Tampa Bay Lightning

year as owner and has seen the Lightning make it to the playoffs six times with two of those being backto-back Stanley Cup-winning seasons. His goal from the beginning was to ensure that the Lightning’s home arena, Amalie Arena, is well known for its guest-first facility which has been recognized as one of the best in all of the NHL locations. If you attend any of the games, or even watch a practice, you will encounter a family-friendly atmosphere and see what this venue offers. It really is a welcoming place.

Together the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Buccaneers have many charities and outreach programs that get the local Tampa Bay community involved. The Buccaneers host a couple of different charities including “My Cause for Cleats”, which allows different team members to promote a charity that is important to them by designing specialty cleats that get auctioned off. One-hundred percent of the proceeds go to the players’ chosen charities.

The Bucs also have their “Treasure Chests 5k” and a “Fun Run” that supports breast cancer research and patient services for the Tampa Bay community.

Erik Cernak, Tampa Bay Lightning

Under Darcie Glazer Kassewitz’s leadership, the Buccaneers provide resources and financial support to important community causes including supporting food banks in partnership with Feeding Tampa Bay and raising awareness and funding programs for cancer awareness. They also have included services benefiting the American Cancer Society, Florida Cancer Specialists Foundation, the AdventHealth Foundation of Central Florida and Moffitt Cancer Center. Thanksgiving season the Bucs hold an annual “Turkey Time with the O-Line Supported by Publix”, where they provide Thanksgiving meals for those less fortunate. Go here to view the different organizations the Tampa Bay Buccaneers work with: www.buccaneers.com/ community.

The Tampa Bay Lightning have a year-round charity that is always open to donations called the Lightning Foundation. The foundation invests its resources and leadership for the enrichment of the

Photographs on this page and preceding page by Emily Riness

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Atlanta Falcons / Tampa Bay Buccaneers Photo courtesy of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Atlanta Falcons / Tampa Bay Buccaneers Photo courtesy of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

“Cut for a Cure” Photo courtesy of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Chicago Bears / Tampa Bay Buccaneers Photo courtesy of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers

10 At the Gulf Shore

Amalie Arena, home for the Tampa Bay Lightning

people. The Lightning Foundation has been able to donate to dozens of different non-profit organizations throughout the Tampa Bay community through money raised by a 50/50 Raffle. For more information go to www.nhl.com/lightning/ community/. This season, a portion of each game’s proceeds will support cancer research at Moffitt Cancer Center, along with dozens of other location charities in Tampa Bay.

Nikita Kucherov,, Tampa Bay Lightning

Written by Sierra Hill, resident of the local Tampa Bay area. Sierra has lived in the area near the pristine waters of the Weeki Wachee River, home of the Mermaids. She enjoys kayaking up the river, soaking up the beautiful nature and wildlife that calls the river its home. She also enjoys boat rides out to the gulf, hanging out on the Hernando Beach Flats, and adventuring out during scallop season.

Photographed by Emily Riness

Tampa Bay is a hot spot for sports fans. If you find yourself in the area during this football or hockey season, be sure to get your tickets and see what these amazing teams of Tampa Bay are made of. Fan-driven energy and a day out for the entire family is only part of what the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Tampa Bay Lightning have to offer. Take your part by donating to any of the wonderful charities these teams represent. The teams and their staff work hard to provide opportunities for the local community in a variety of ways.

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o d n a n r He h c a e B “Hernando County’s Secret...”

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H

ernando Beach is sometimes

confused with Hernando, Florida but they are two different places.

Hernando Beach is a quaint area off of SR 19 in Hernando County.

Although it is called “Hernando Beach”, you will not find a huge beach such like Clearwater Beach, but what you will find here are naturelike activities that you cannot get in the more populated areas.

Another asset to this area is the stretch of shops and restaurants along Shoal Line Boulevard.

Beginning from the south end off of SR 19, take Osowaw Blvd. which will bring you to an area at which to make a right turn. This is Shoal Line Blvd which will take you to along a scenic drive to see a bit of “untouched” Florida. There are a variety of different locations along the way that will capture your appetite and your “beachy” shopping senses as well.

Weeki Wachee Preserve is also off of Osowaw Blvd. which is a cyclist’s rough route and it’s a place to

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encounter some of the wildlife here.

The waters here are full of alligators, turtles, mullet, and a variety of birds.

Here you will find a wide array of ducks, doves, sandhill cranes, wood storks, white ibis, herons, and egrets.

Look into the spots for fishing here.

Who knows what you will catch! The paths to get there are pretty desolate so make sure to be prepared with water for the hiking trail which travels fairly far out.

When you travel farther down Shoal Line Blvd., you will find beach shops that have a variety of coastal items that will satisfy any beach buff. Be sure and check out Beverly’s Coastal Living Home Décor & More. This boutique Beverly’s Coastal Living Home Decor & More

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k e e r C s n i k n Je

has a variety of coastal décor from various local artists. From clocks to driftwood pieces, paintings, tables, and many other unique items, you are sure to find a rare and authentic piece to treasure in your home ro find that special gift.

Take a break at Linda Pedersen Park and enjoy s few hours of fishing along Jenkins Creek. The park is open from 8 a.m. to sunset and has a long pier to do some casting from. It offers the opportunity to see a manatee that may be passing through. An immense untouched 110 acres attracts all kinds of natural Florida wildlife. There also is a forty-foot observation tower where you can enjoy a panoramic view of Hernando Beach and the Gulf of Mexico. There are amenities here for those who want to grill and enjoy a picnic, showers and restrooms along with 3 pavilions which are available to rent.

Once you get to the near end of Shoal Line Blvd., there are kayaking places to try out. Keep in mind when you when you

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start at this end of the Weeki Wachee River, you will need to paddle your way upriver. If you start out to the Weeki Wachee Park which is on SR 19, you can grab a kayak there also but in that location you will be able to head down river if you prefer.

Visit www.weekiwachee.com to learn about all the fun the park has to offer.

Another park along Shoal Line Blvd. is Roger’s Park. This park is a hotspot most of the time because of the amenities it has to offer. There is a beach off the river, boat ramps, a picnic shelter, and playgrounds. It’s a great place to launch your kayak, canoe, and/or boat. The river is about 7.4 miles so be prepared to spend some time enveloping yourself in the aquatic nature the river brings.

The water temperature at Weeki Wachee Springs is a steady 72 to 74 degrees F year-round. Increased recreation in the

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Linda Pedersen Park, Hernando County

river has had some negative environmental impact so it’s best to follow a few things on your adventure. A few

Beverly’s

tips on how to enjoy this river responsibly include: Stay in your vessel, tie off in shallow waters, avoid docking on riverbanks, don’t trample or kick up silt, avoid climbing on banks and walking on sand point bars, don’t climb trees or use rope swings and

Home Decor & More We have an Assortment of Local Artist Creations to choose from!

Find your Special Gift or that Unique Piece for your Home.

Come Visit us in Hernando Beach!

3422 Shoal Line Blvd.

Hernando Beach FL 34607

don’t throw litter or leave

352-340-4000

anything behind. (www.

Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 5 pm Closed Sunday & Monday

swfwmd.state.fl.us/projects/ springs/protecting-theweeki-wachee-river)

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There is an assortment of things to enjoy in Hernando Beach. If its being a little physical, you can go for a swim, kayak, or fish. If you seek to take it easy, breathe in the fresh air at one of the local outdoor restaurants, enjoying a cold beer or a glass of wine as the sun sets. Hernando Beach is a sweet, secret spot of Hernando County and is the place where you might even see a mermaid during your visit.

Forty-foot lookout at Jenkins Creek Outside market Hernando Beach

Susan’s Flags & More Flags for every occasion!

Garden Flags  American Flags  Pins  Stickers 

Visit A Local Hobby Shop!

See the West Hernando Central Railroad Running on our 350 ft. HO layout!

Scratch Building Supplies Ship and Airplane Models in Stock

Open House & Swap Meets every month!

December 9, 2023 | January 13, 2024 352-684-2484 February 10, 2024 | March 9, 2024 Wed – Fri 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

4042 Deltona Blvd. Spring Hill, FL 34606

danasrailroadsupply.com

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Sat 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 pm Closed Sun, Mon & Tuesday

Seasonal Poles & Accessories Stop in! You won't be disappointed!

826 Dodecanese Blvd.

Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

727-942-7800

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a t o s a r a S

Entertains in Various Ways...

Downtown Sarasota

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John & Mable Ringling House Museum of Art above and below

The area of Sarasota offers an abundance of those interested in the arts. The Ringling Museum located at 5401 Bay Shore Rd, Sarasota includes hundreds of European Baroque-style paintings and Asian Art at the Ting Tsung and Wei Fong Chao Center.

If you are looking for contemporary art, you will find that here too at the Keith D. and Linda L.

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The Banyan trees on the Ringling Museum grounds.

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Monda Gallery for Contemporary Art. One of the interesting playful parts of this location is its Circus Museum, a miniature display that will surprise anyone who comes to explore its minuscule displays.

The ornate former home of the John and Mable Ringling, Ca ‘d’Zan, is a must-see. The architectural details and the collection of furniture bring you back in time to the Roaring Twenties. The house sits on twenty acres of waterfront property that was purchased by the Ringlings in 1927 when Sarasota was a small fishing village. By the 1920s, their wealth had grown tremendously so this home and garden was a display to invite their guests and associates to. Their Bayfront Gardens included a rose garden, native and exotic trees, and a playground.

Another interesting area to visit is downtown Sarasota’s Pineapple Avenue. The Chalk Festival is a 501c3 volunteer organization that is made up of volunteers, artists, sponsors and visitors who together

Gallery Shopping for Every Purse Size

T H I N K LO C A L F I R S T

7 S Blvd. of the Presidents, Sarasota, FL 34236 (941) 388-1939 JustBecauseSarasota.com Follow Us

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create the “WOW” everyone has come to LOVE. chalkfestival.org There are also many venues at which to enjoy live music shows. O’Leary’s Tiki Bar and Grill will provide you with that beachy scene on the shores of Sarasota Bay. If it’s dancing on the club scene, check out The Siesta Key Beach Club. They have monthly special musical guests, contests, and parties.

Got to beachclubsiestakey.com for more on the entertainment line-up.

In downtown Sarasota, Payne Park hosts local live bands along with live music in the park on Friday evenings and Sunday afternoons. The park is filled with outdoor performers on the patio and has a skate park and trails.

One of downtown Sarasota’s murals Below: some of the sidewalk chalk to see on Pineapple Avenue.

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Also downtown, you will be surprised at all the little cafes on Pineapple Avenue where you can also enjoy the Chalk Art on the sidewalks. Every year a festival is held by the Chalk Festival Cultural Arts Organization, a volunteer organization who “wows” everyone with worldly talents of pavement artists and interactive 3D illusions.

If you want a more relaxed jazzy vibe entertainment, visit the Sarasota Art Museum on the second Thursday of each month. You can find the museum at 1001 S Tamiami Trail. View their schedule of events at sarasotaartmuseum.org.

Whatever your interest is, you can easily find it either in downtown Sarasota in any of its delightful museums or venues.

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Snook is our favorite but redfish, trout and anything that swims inshore are not safe from us!

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26 At the Gulf Shore

www.atthegulfshore.com

r e t n Wi At the Gulf Shore

Annuals

We are very lucky in our Sunshine State of Florida to be able to grow flowers throughout the year. Certain annuals are usually planted during the summer in other places but since our climate here is warm even during our winter months, our area has ample weather for winter annuals to be planted now.

One specific addition you can add to any planting is organic matter and a controlled-release fertilizer. This will provide you with a much greater success for beautiful planting beds. Most winter annuals do best in full sun and make sure to water thoroughly after planting. By limiting the variety and colors of your annuals, you can make a better visual impact. Also, it is also best to remove old blooms so that they will gradually set new buds.

Did you know that the most popular winter annuals include pansies and violas, both of which have edible flowers? Below is a list of annuals for which to grow and have a beautiful winter garden: Calendula Delphinium Geraniums Pansies

Petunias Snapdragons Sweet Alyssum

Remember to keep up on the weeding during the winter. This will reduce pest problems and the chance of fungal diseases. Also, match the growing requirements like light and moisture for your planting site. This will ensure that your annual has enough room to grow and bloom.

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Donna Morrison “...an impressionistic approach using dramatic colors.”

A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

Watercolor Artist

Chassahowitzka

Originally from Bradenton, Florida, Donna Morrison captures the spirit of the Gulf Shores of Florida. Her realistic watercolor paintings have a light feeling that brings you into the whatever the majestic scene she has painted.

She has been influenced by Michelangelo, Andrew Wyeth, Norman Rockwell, Dean

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Mitchell, Joe Miller, Taylor Ikin, and others for her artistic abilities. Occasionally, Morrison enjoys “an impressionistic approach using dramatic colors.”

Donna’s connection for her client is important to her. She is humbled by the thought that they want to “own and live with my paintings in their own

S H O W C A S E A R T I S T

Blue Crab Study

Cattle Country

www.donnamorrison.net 29

Donna Morrison

A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

Watercolor Artist

Wood Stork

world.” Also, she is passionate about the “conservation of elements of Florida that are at risk of being lost”. You will appreciate this from her charming, colorful paintings of the pristine Gulf Coast area of Florida.

From fishermen to the native wildlife that surrounds us, her paintings envelope the essence of the area.

This year, Morrison has been working with ZooTampa donating her time and skill to their panther rehab. She has painted one of the panthers that will be used in the zoo’s promotional materials and fundraising efforts.

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S H O W C A S E A R T I S T

Flag Girl in Waiting

The Joanne

www.donnamorrison.net 31

Donna Morrison www.donnamorrison.net

A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

Fine Artist

Morning Waves

She hopes to use some of the images in partnership with the Florida Wildlife Corridor Foundation. This foundation comprises nearly 18 million acres of contiguous wilderness and working lands crucial to the survival of many of Florida’s 131 imperiled animals and the land they need to flourish.

Morrison also plans to create a series of paintings highlighting the Myakka River, one of Florida’s largest and oldest parks. The park is a playground for alligators and turtles who take in the warm sunshine along the banks. Visit www.donnamorrison.net to see more of her work.

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S H O W C A S E

Awards Best of Show: Florida Suncoast Watercolor Society 3rd Place Florida Watercolor Society Best of Show: Artists Unlimited/Tampa

A R T I S T

1st Place T Tallahassee Watercolor Society 2nd Place TriState Watercolor Exhibition 1st Place Bay Area Art Exhibition/ Watercolor 1st Place Art Center Manatee Selected as top one of the top ten artists to watch in the Artists Magazine Annual Spotlight

Donna Morrison

813-230-5676

donnamorrisonart@gmail.com

Casting for Keepers

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Melissa Miller Nece “It’s fun to be more expressive in a literal way.”

A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

Fine Artist

My Little Piece of Paradise

Born near Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Melissa Nece has a passion for acrylic painting in college and then became interested in colored pencil. Most of her current work is in color pencil but she also works on oils and acrylics.

Melissa also enjoys working “en plein air”, which is the act of painting outside to capture to change the differentiations of light across landscapes.

“En plein air” dates back to the 18th Century when paint tubes came into existence enabling painters of the Impression era to arise.

www.mmillernece.com 34 At the Gulf Shore

S H O W C A S E A R T I S T

A Chill in a Warming Climate

Halcyon Glow

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Melissa Miller Nece

A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

Artist

High Season

Melissa’s pieces are realistic but she also has work that is non-representational. She says, “It’s fun to be more expressive in a literal way.” Her uncle was one of her influencers who actually was one of her college professors.

That influenced Melissa to continue as a teacher at the Dunedin Fine Arts Center for over 30 years. By providing informative artistic instruction, she has inspired awardwinning students. Melissa commented, “ Seeing their progress is very fulfilling to me.”

Outdoors near the beach and water scenes are where she finds her inspiration. She hopes that her work can provide

www.mmillernece.com 36 At the Gulf Shore

S H O W C A S E A R T I S T Peace Will Come When Justice is Done

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Melissa Miller Nece

A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

Artist

Gossip Girls

a vision of how beautiful our environment and how it needs to be protected.

Currently, Melissa is focused on the Florida beaches. She recently re-did a drawing that belongs to the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport. They had purchased it from her in 2005 but it had fallen in the frame so Melissa updated it to make it look brand new with colors that will last. You can view the drawing, “Splashback” at the St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport.

www.mmillernece.com 38 At the Gulf Shore

Awards

S H O W C A S E

f Various Colored Pencil Society of America International Exhibitions f The Society’s Explore This!

Mixed Media Show| f Professional Association of Visual Artists At Waters Edge

f Statewide Florida Artists Group f Various National and International Miniature Art Shows - Best of Show

Melissa Miller Nece

727-786-1396

A R T I S T

mmnece@juno.com

Already Braced for the Next One

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COLD SNAP!

but keep on fishing!

40 At the Gulf Shore

Winter fishing is a season that is greatly affected by how much the climate and water temperatures change. If we have a mild December where the water temperatures stay in the mid to high 60s, you can expect the fish to be very active between fronts in the shallow waters as they warm from the sun. This especially holds true for the snook.

Snook will position themselves near deeper water adjacent to a flat so that they can go there during the night to stay warm and survive. When the shallow water starts to warm up faster due to the dark grass, the snook will migrate there during the day to feed. They will also start going to the rivers for warmth and will stack up at the mouths of rivers and work their way further up the river as the days get colder. If we have a quicker colder season this will happen sooner rather than later, and the power plant outflows will become a haven for snook and many other species of fish. Snook become lethargic below 60°, start to get into trouble around 55° and loose their equilibrium, and start to die around 47°. These temperatures are approximate depending on the speed at which the temperature drops. If we have consecutive harsh cold fronts without warmer days in between

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and we get a rapid temperature drop, the snook cannot acclimate or move to warmer water then they get into trouble. So, watch your water temps and that will dictate where to find the snook.

If we are having a bad winter for the snook it is better to leave them alone and target fish that acclimate better to the cold like redfish, trout, sheepshead, and flounder.

Redfish and trout can be found on many of the same terrains.

Look for them to be on shallow grass flats with plenty of sand holes and or oysters, that have warmed up from the sun to the canals and docks with dark

42 At the Gulf Shore

bottoms. Another area that warms up that fish will gravitate to is the metal corrugated sea walls that warm up from the sun. Fish the west sides of the canals first since the sun will be on them first in the morning heating the water sooner. Live shrimp under a Four Horseman Popping cork or a Saltwater Assassin 1/4°oz jig head with a Lil P & V in the brown or green grass minnow color will both work great for covering areas to find fish. Drift or wade the area while fan casting to find the fish. Look for signs like birds or mullet, both of which will point you in the right direction for food sources for the redfish and trout.

Depending on the temperatures

you will start to see more and more sheepshead and larger ones as it cools even more.

Flounder will also start to show up in better quantities. Shrimp and fiddler crabs will work for both, but I like the shrimp for the flounder better. I have caught plenty of sheepshead on shrimp, but they will never pass up a fiddler crab (or mud crab). Look for sheepshead around the docks and on the flats but the quantity of larger ones will be on the bridge pilings, reefs, and rock piles out in the bay.

The flounder you can find in a variety of places, but you must have a sandy bottom area. This can be inshore on the grass

Call 727-525-1005 www.FishTampa.com or

Https://www.facebook.com/ FishHunterFishingCharters Email: CaptGeorge@TampaBay.rr.com

flats with nice sand holes, but it can also be out in the bay or offshore around rock piles and reefs. The sand around the rocks or dumbed rubble of the reefs will hold flounder once they move in. Inshore use a jig head with a live shrimp or a Lil P & V to slow reel along the sandy bottom areas. Offshore or in deeper water use a larger jig head or weight just enough to keep you on the bottom.

When you think you have a snag slowly lift your rod tip if it moves or even slight pulls back, set the hook, and you’ve got a flounder!!!

Good luck this winter and tight lines!

This article was written by Capt. George Hastick of “Fish Hunter Fishing Charters” in St. Petersburg, Florida. He is the co-host of “Fishing Adventures Florida” which appears on 5 streaming channels and YouTube. He has been fishing the waters of the Tampa Bay area for over 35 years and guiding for over 20 years. All anglers are welcome from novice to professional, Capt. George will make you feel as if you have been fishing buddies for years!

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Festivals Around Your Town

Pinellas County Dec 20

Jan 6 - 7

Jan 28

Christmas Cookie Party at The Refuge 3:45 PM City Of Refuge 15556 Verona Ave, Clearwater, FL

Main Street Dunedin Art Festival 10 AM – 5 PM Dunedin Downtown Market 420 Main St, Dunedin, FL

Clearwater Running Festival 7 AM Clearwater Beach, Clearwater, FL

Feb 1 Dec 23

Jan 13

St. Pete Walking Mural Tour 10 AM – 11:30 AM Florida Craft Art 501 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL

St. Pete Bacon and BBQ Festival 2024 12:00 PM - 10:00 PM Vinoy Park 701 Bayshore Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL

Dec 31

Jan 18 - 21

New Years Eve at the St. Pete Pier 6:00 PM – 11:30 PM St. Pete Pier 600 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg, FL

2024 St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show 6:30 - 8:30 PM Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater 400 1st St S, St. Petersburg, FL

Jan 13 St Pete Pier Kayak Adventure & Concert 1:30 PM Demens Landing Park Bayshore Dr. & 2nd Ave. S, 525-549 2nd Ave SE, St. Petersburg, FL

Jan 19 - Jan 21 2024 John’s Pass Seafood Festival 12 PM John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk 12945 Village Blvd, Madeira Beach, FL

Kite Festival 10 AM Treasure Island, FL

Feb 1 - 4 Dunedin International Film Festival 2024 12 PM - 9 PM HOB Brewing Co. 931 Huntley Ave, Dunedin, FL

Feb 17 2024 Hope Spot Festival 10 AM – 5 PM Edgewater Park 51 Main St, Dunedin, FL

Feb 23 - 25 St. Petersburg Seafood & Music Festival North Straub Park 400 Bayshore Dr NE, St. Petersburg, FL

Feb 24 Art and Seafood on the Waterfront 2024 12- 19 PM Safety Harbor Waterfront Park 110 Veterans Memorial Ln Safety Harbor, FL

44 At the Gulf Shore

Festivals Around Your Town

Sarasota County Dec 21 - 22 Ladies Day Out Holiday Mingle St. Armands Circle Sarasota, FL (Ladies Day Out every third Thursday of every month)

Dec 23 Christmas on Main 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Main Street At Lakewood Ranch 8100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL

Dec 23 Christmas on Main 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM Main Street At Lakewood Ranch 8100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL

Jan 6 - 7 Sarasota Winter Fine Art Festival J.D. Hamel Park 199 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL

Jan 19 St. Armands International Food Truck & Music Festival 4:00 - 10:00 PM St. Armands Circle Park 1 St Armands Cir, Sarasota, FL

Jan 20 - 21 Lakewood Ranch Fine Art Festival 2024: Join Us for Original Art — Leon F Ruiz 3:00 - 10:00 PM 10667 Boardwalk Loop, Lakewood Ranch, FL

Jan 26 -28 Sarasota Seafood & Music Festival J.D. Hamel Park 199 Bayfront Dr, Sarasota, FL

Jan 27 21st Annual St. Armands Circle Art Festival 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM St. Armands Circle Park St Armands Cir, Sarasota, FL

Feb 2 Music on Main Main Street At Lakewood Ranch 8100 Lakewood Ranch Blvd, Bradenton, FL

Feb 10 - 11 36th Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts 3:00 PM - 10:00 PM Main St, Sarasota, FL

Feb 16 - 18 26th Annual Thunder By The Bay Music & Motorcycle Festival 3000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL

45

Festivals Around Your Town

Hernando County Jan 6 Hernando Beach Front Porch Art Walk 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM Silver Dolphin Restaurant 4036 Shoal Line Blvd, Hernando Beach, FL

Jan 11 - 15 HangCon - The LARGEST hammock gathering in the country! Fun, Food & Friends 12:00 PM Florida Sand Music Ranch 85 Myers Rd, Brooksville, FL

Dec 22

Jan 13

Brooksville Country Christmas 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM Brooksville Main Street 205 E Fort Dade Ave, Brooksville, FL

The Hometown Market Beasley Farm 10137 Preston Rd, Brooksville, FL

Feb 24 Dec 22 Special Pop Up Class: Winter Solstice QiGong/ Tai Chi 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM WellCome OM Integral Healing & Education Center 4242 Lake in the Woods Dr, Spring Hill, FL

Dec 29 Hernando Audubon Beginning Birding 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM Chinsegut Conservation Center 23212 Lake Lindsey Rd, Brooksville, FL

Dec 30 Motown Comes to Brooksville 6:00 PM Sparacia Witherell Family Winery & Vineyards 21509 Snow Hill Rd, Brooksville, FL

46 At the Gulf Shore

Weeki Car Show 2024 11:00 AM - 2 PM Weeki Wachee Springs State Park 6131 Commercial Way, Spring Hill, FL

Feb 25 Hot Wheels Show in Brooksville 10:00 Am - 2:00 PM American Legion Andrew Jackson Post 99 208 E Fort Dade Ave, Brooksville, FL

Feb 23 Whippersnapper Music and Arts Festival 8:00 PM Florida Sand Music Ranch 85 Myers Rd, Brooksville, FL

Feb 22 - 24 Florida Classic Music Festival Florida Classic Park 5360 Lockhart Rd, Brooksville, FL

Festivals Around Your Town

Pasco County Dec 22

Feb 23

Church Street Christmas 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM 37511 Church Ave, Dade City, FL

9th Annual SunWest Crab & Shrimp Festival SunWest Park 17362 Old Dixie Highway Hudson, FL 34667

Dec 22

Mar 15

Christmas in France-an immersive tasting event featuring 8 wines 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM Starkey Ranch 2500 Heart Pine Ave, Odessa, FL

2024 Chasco Coronation Ball Spartan Manor in New Port Richey Proceeds for the Lighthouse for the Visually Impaired and Blind, Inc. see www.lvib.org

Dec 23 Celebration of Lights 6 PM - 9 PM The Concourse Event Center 11919 Alric Pottberg Rd, Shady Hills, FL

Jan 12 Pigz In Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival Zephyrhills Municipal Airport 39450 South Ave, Zephyrhills, FL

Jan 27 Annual Kumquat Festival 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Historic Pasco County Offices 37918 Meridian Ave, Dade City, FL

Feb 10 Bazaar & Craft Fair 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM The Salvation Army Corps & Community Center 7745 Ridge Road, Port Richey, FL

Feb 19 - 25 Pasco County Fair 9:00 - 10:00 PM Pasco County Fair Association Inc 36722 Co Rd 52, Dade City, FL

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