At the Gulf Shore Magazine Winter 2022-23

At the

Gulf Shore YOUR SOURCE FOR LOCAL ART, ENTERTAINMENT & FUN

Shop Local!

DRY TORTUGAS Adventure in Florida’s Backyard

Fishing THE FLATS

Local Artists

Bula Barua Mary Lou Johnson WINTER 2022

Winter 22

ATGS

NATURE

ART SCENE

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Sheepshead, snook and redfish.

Bula Barua’s blown glass on canvas can be seen in St. Petersburg.

At the Gulf Shore EDITORIAL Publisher/editor

Michele Salvadeo editor@atthegulfshore.com Contributing editors

Kristen Chandler Graphic Design

Amy Newhouse Michele Salvadeo

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 magazine.

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© 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 Shutterstock

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At the Gulf Shore

Fishing at the Gulf Shore

“Beautiful, Inside & Out”

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Sand and Sea Mary Lou Johnson photography captures the feeling of our pristine area.

Contents AROUND TOWN

VENUE

LIFESTYLE

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And it is here that “the stars aligned” and a beautiful venue was born.

This outstanding National Park should be on your bucket list. Scuba, snorkel, fish, and camp out with nature.

Shop along Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks A little bit of Greek a little bit of wine, and a little bit of shopping to satisfy the soul. Shop local.

Rialto Theatre

Dry Tortugas

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St. Armands Sarasota Stroll the circle and shop small. Then take a beach break and shop again.

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Catch a train in Hernando First stop in Hernando should be this local shop.

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The Rialto Theatre

“the stars aligned...”

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At the Gulf Shore

Plan your wedding at this authentic, exquisite theatre

.

Owner, Hope Donnelly

“The theatre found me,” said Hope Donnelly, owner of the Rialto Theatre. “And the stars aligned!”

This magnificent, refurbished theatre in Tampa secures the historical neighborhood from which it flourished. Before the revitalization of the North Franklin Business District, some of the downtown spaces, such as this one, were shuttered, with no

All photos courtesy of Rialto Theatre

front door and many people were skeptical of what Hope’s vision was for an artsy venue with an industrial vibe. But Hope was a visionary and wouldn’t let the dream location’s water leaks and dingy walls hinder her imagination! She is symbolic of exactly what our area boasts about: vitality, drive, and a futurist.

As you walk through the front blue doors, you will find a history of signs which have made this building what it is. Its signs of automotive, welding and machinery businesses cannot be recreated. The natural aging of the Rialto Theatre displays its authenticity well. You might see certain areas

Weddings and private parties are an intricate display at the Rialto

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of distortion which are actually left

and the recent show “Selling Tampa”.

who want to acquire unique photos

there on purpose. But these types of

The Knot magazine has featured the

for a music video or a commercial, the

markings among the white walls are the

Rialto Theatre as one of its venues of

backdrops at the Rialto are exactly

scars that make this place distinctive.

choice for that special day! Donnelly

what you need.

The past theatre performances that were backed by The Federal Theatre Project, allowed for showcasing more “scandalous” shows. Back in past days, some of those performances

is also personally driven to make sure that the Rialto is a green space. She has created waste-free events and is making sure the business is run under a green lifestyle.

The Rialto Theatre is located in Tampa Heights, at 1617 N. Franklin Street. The theatre is not far from the growing area of the Tampa Riverwalk and blocks from Ulele Spring. If you

were so provocative, that men and

If you are seeking that industrial vibe

haven’t ventured to this growing area,

women who wanted to watch the same

and an eclectic spot for the backdrop

definitely check it out. You will love the

performances would have separate

of your wedding, the Rialto is that

atmosphere. You can reach the Rialto

viewings!

place. You also can easily host a

Theatre on their website at

workshop or networking event here.

www.rialtotampa.com

The Rialto Theatre of today has hosted events like the launch of Brand Monkey

Another option for all the creatives

All photos courtesy of Rialto Theatre

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At the Gulf Shore

Fishing

at the Gulf Shore

Redfish also known as Red Drum

distinct “eye” on their tail and can be an enduring, exciting catch if you get the chance to wrestle with one. They can get up to 24 inches long and have a beautiful distinct reddishpink color that match the gulf shore sunsets.

Snook are another fish with awesome fighting ability and showcase that distinct black lateral line on their sides. They have beautiful yellow fins but be careful handling them as Crevalle Jack fish caught by surprise

Even fishing during the winter months in

their gill covers are razor-sharp.

No matter what time of the year, there is a variety of fish in

the gulf gives you plenty of varieties to fish.

the gulf to fish for. You will be surprised what you can catch!

One is the Sheepshead. Sheepshead has

*Federal Fish and Wildlife_https://myfwc.com

also known been known as the convict fish.

They have pretty prominent teeth and sharp spines along the dorsal and anal fins. They

Book your Winter Fishing Trip TODAY!

are lightly colored with black bars that are vertical on their sides. A similar species is the Black Drum which lacks the incisorlike teeth. These fish like to hang out near structures and spawn near shore late winter.

Cook these fish up on the grill! They have a healthy high-fat content which make them a nice and healthy meal.

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

Capt. George Hastick

You also can catch snook and redfish

Private custom inshore fishing charters

during the next few months. Redfish, also

Novice to professionals including kids, women and male anglers

called Red Drum, were overfished during the 80s. Red drum stocks have rebounded and are currently exceeding the FWC’s management goal of 40% escapement in

(727) 525-1005 www.fishtampa.com

most parts of Florida.* These fish have a

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g n i p p o h S

n o p r Ta

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At the Gulf Shore

s g n i r Sp Opa! Tarpon Springs is abundant with Greek food, culture, and of course shopping. Along its winding, crescent waterways, Tarpon Springs has a unique encounter. Here you will find some of the most authentic Greek restaurants, pastry shops, and galleries. It’s “Old World” vibe is present everywhere as you walk down the bricked streets. Sponges and shells are part of the sea treasures available from artisans here. Art and festivals celebrate creativity several times a year. Take the time to visit these quaint shops and enjoy the delicious food from this niche in Pinellas County.

Along Dodecanese Boulevard, are the Internationally known Sponge Docks. This small Greek community built up this area to become the “Sponge Capital of the World”! You can experience its history with a sponge diving tour and even get a glimpse of some of the fishermen as you shop. Sponge diving dates to the 1800s and you can experience this adventure on a tour where a diver suits up in the traditional suit.

But the spirit of the town doesn’t stop here. Lots of pure, olive oil products and soaps are among the items that some of the shops offer. You will find authentic, handmade jewelry. The large and super-large sponges, shells, and other art items are created

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n o p r a T s g n i r p S

from treasures provided by the Gulf of Mexico. You will also find cotton gauze clothing, sandals, handbags, jewelry, abundant soaps, and candles. And when you need a break, stop by the wine bar/tap room at Wine at the Docks.

They offer a great selection of Florida, Greek, and specialty wines.

With the holiday season right around the corner, shop locally at Dodecanese Boulevard. The blue and white buildings line the streets with small cafes to make you feel like you are in “Little Greece”. Depending on which way the gulf breeze is blowing that day, you can be overwhelmed with the scent of baked baklava and traditional gyros.

Or how about some homemade fudge and candy to satisfy your sweet tooth?

Greek pastries are widely available such as somesades, spanakopita, and baklava. And, as you make your way down Dodecanese Boulevard, you will encounter some of the locals offering their special of the day or a discounted lunch at their restaurant.

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At the Gulf Shore

Susan’s Flags & More Flags for every occasion!

Garden Flags  American Flags  Pins  Stickers 

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

826 Dodecanese Blvd.

Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

727-942-7800

ted to i v n I e ’r u Yo

Wine at the Docks

Free Daily Wine Tastings!

Enjoy

yourself and discover our passion!

Florida Wines  Greek Wines  Specialty Wines  Locally-made Cider  Local Craft Beers

Gifts for all the wine lovers in your circle of friends and family!

Located across the street from the Lighthouse Shoppes at

828 Dodecanese Blvd, Tarpon Springs, FL  Tues-Sat 11 - 10  Sun & Mon 12-79 www.tarponspringswine.com Let us come to YOUR next event with our beverage trailer!

Scan the code to set up your next event!

Or call us at 727-942-9463

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n o p r a T rings Sp

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At the Gulf Shore

All Natural Handmade

Tagua Bed and breakfasts are nearby if you need a nice getaway weekend.

Shopping is plentiful at the sponge docks as you stroll along all the side streets too. All the shop owners greet you with a noticeable, special smile. Maybe it’s the air or just the fact that you are having a “Greek moment” but shopping at the sponge docks is all about the experience. A strong sense of tradition is present and it is that

Vegetable Ivory From the rainforest of South America is a Plant Based Ivory.

All items in our store are handmande from the nut.

Everything is hand-made!

Necklaces Earrings

No piece is ever the same!

735 Dodecanese Blvd., Ste 14 Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

727-485-8052 The nuts are collected by the locals without causing any damage to the forest or environment.

feeling which will bring you back to

www.vegetableivory.com

visit this special place.

Head outside of the sponge docks and you will find downtown Tarpon Springs, a charming area with plentiful galleries, shops, and museums. Here you will find the

Bracelets Figures

All Your Favorite Brands All In One Place!

Located in the

SPONGE EXCHANGE (727) 940-4925

Tarpon Spring Heritage Museum, which exhibits the history of the local Greek community. If you like Victorian architecture, visit the Safford House. Then, if you happen to venture to the Tarpon Springs Historical Train Museum, you will feel the history of the area in a different scope and step away from modern life for a bit.

Endless Greek authenticities live here. Experience it!

735 Dodecanese Blvd Unit 3| Tarpon Springs, FL 34689 Hours: Monday thru Sunday 10:30am to 7 pm 13

g n i p p o Sh

a t o s a r a S 14

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chic S

t. Armand’s Circle is known for its ideal shopping

and its proximity near

the beautiful beaches of

Sarasota and Siesta Key. Feast your eyes on the many designer shops

and galleries. If you seek

upscale dining, shopping and the beach, then, this is your go-to spot. Not far from here, you can

also tap into downtown

Sarasota, where you will

find more art galleries and exquisite shopping if you

want to step away form the tourist area. Downtown is

abundant with a “city-like” feel and a growing new age community.

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St. Armands Circle lines it’s streets with so many exquisite boutique shops, it is hard to decide where to start your shopping adventure. If you want to feel fabulous and chic, then this is the place to shop. Let’s say it is sophisticated and chic shopping!

St. Armands Circle’s history started with the well-known circus ringmaster, John Ringling.

h c a eb The fact is that Charles St. Armand, take

note of the spelling, purchased what was mangrove islands back in 1893. His name was spelled incorrectly on the land deed.

But it was Mr. Ringling who later purchased it and envisioned a shopping circle, fine

homes, and an upscale hotel. Elephants

were called upon to take out the trees and reface the area. When the stock market

crashed in 1929 when the United States fell into a depression, St. Armands catnapped for almost 20 years. It was reawakened in the 1960s and exists today as the premier shopping area of Sarasota.

As you make your way around the circle, there is no need to hunger or thirst. One of the local favorites is the Columbia

restaurant, which has several locations

around the gulf shore area. Guests are

treated superbly as they savor the Cubaninspired cuisine. And, if you head down

Fillmore Drive off St. Armands Circle, you can pick up a nice cigar to enjoy with your favorite spirit.

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At the Gulf Shore

Since 1965!

BENNING ON obacconist

941-388-1562

US & Canada 1-800-237-5074

Cigars  PiPes  TobaCCo  aCCessories

SHOP ONLINE



www.benningtons.com 5 Fillmore Dr, Sarasota, FL 34236

MONDAY - SATURDAY: 10AM - 9PM | SUNDAY: 1 PM - 9 PM We are located in the “Aqua Quadrant” of the St. Armands Circle; quadrants are identified by color banners on the lampposts. Free Public Parking off of Fillmore Dr. and we are across the street from the Crab and Fin restaurant.

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Timeless.

Exquisite.

One-of-a-kind.

Stop in and see the work of Rodolfo Lugo’s handmade, designer jewelry.

Explore unique jewelry designs,  Gems  Semi-precious Stones  Sterling Silver  14kt Gold  18kt Vermeil and Gold and more...

55 S Blvd of The Presidents | Sarasota, FL

774-563-3505

rodolfolugojewelsusa.com

We are located at St. Armands Circle, down the street from the Crab & Fin restaurant

Come to St. Armands Circle

Ladies Day Out!

Every 3rd Thursday of the Month 10 AM- 8 PM

 Shopping discounts  Sales  Fabulous raffles  Refreshments

and more fun at participating businesses!

At the Gulf Shore magazine publishes only four times a year.

Our goal is to provide local businesses an avenue to get their business noticed through this publication.

We are a digital publication and a printed publication.

Catch the wave and jump on board with At the Gulf Shore magazine!

Scan below to subscribe and support local business!

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$500 GIFT CARD!

Sponsored by Mangrove Realty

941-388-1939 18

At the Gulf Shore

Have an idea? We want to know.

Send us an email through our website at

www.atthegulfshore.com

a t o s a r a S hopping S

g n i p p o h s Shop locally around St. Armands

Circle and you can get two things.

One, you can get your holiday

shopping done, and two, you can

get some sunshine. Boutiques are abundant and none are the same.

Many of them offer local, artisan pieces so be sure to seek out these one-of-a-kind shops.

Handmade clocks, resin knick-

knacks, and handmade leather

purses are just some of the local

artists’ items you will find in them.

If you seek authentic art, there are a few galleries to visit to possibly purchase that special art for the home or office. Also, if you are

lucky on a given day, you just might even meet the artist who’s work is on display.

Evenings at St. Armands Circle is just as enchanting with its soothing gulf breeze and local musicians

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who sometimes are told to keep the music to a minimum level but most visitors want them to play on!

Just a few blocks away from the circle is Lido Key. Lido Key has some of the best places to stay if you want to be within walking distance to shop. There is also a trolley that runs until 10 p.m. which is quite convenient.

Local shops at St. Armands Circle offer what big retail stores cannot. It is no wonder Mr. Ringling’s vision came to be as it exists today. St. Armands Circle is a beautiful start or end to any day!

NATURE COAST Humane Society

Everybody Deserves A Home!

Unique Artistic Finds!  Bath & Beauty  Gifts for the Home & Entertaining  Fun Kitchen Items

Donate Today

 Candles

Our mission statement is: to provide a safe haven, resources and love for animals in need while promoting pet welfare and sterilization to achieve a no-kill society.

 Jewelry If you can’t make it to the store, shop online!

352-796-2711 SHOP SMALL

7 S Blvd of the Presidents Sarasota, FL | 941-388-1939

| Mon-Sat 10-7 | Sun 11-5

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At the Gulf Shore

justbecausesarasota.com

SHOP LOCAL

7200 Mobley Rd Brooksville, FL 34601 (corner of Wiscon & Mobley)

humanerescue.org

Experience

Art &

Culture

Tarpon Arts has engaging performances, workshops, concerts, and many venues to enjoy. Tarpon Arts has four venues which are the Performing Arts Center, Cultural Center, Heritage Museum, and the Safford House. With the holidays approaching soon, be sure to get some tickets for these upcoming events!

A Christmas Carol

Adapted by Doris Baizley & Directed by David O’Hara

DEC. 3-4, 16-18 FRI & SAT • 7:00 PM & SUN • 2:00 PM Cultural Center, 101 S. Pinellas Ave. (Alt. 19)

Victorian Christmas at the Safford House Advance Tickets Required - Tickets Sold by Session

SAT, DEC. 10 • 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM SUN, DEC. 11 • 10:00 AM, 1:00 PM & 4:00 PM Safford House Museum, 23 Parkin Court (off Grand Blvd.)

Flip Flop Opera

Featuring Composer Richard Wagner & His Music

SUN, JAN. 15 • 2:00 PM

Cultural Center, 101 S. Pinellas Ave. (Alt. 19)

Beginnings

The Ultimate Chicago Tribute Band

SAT, JAN 21 ● 7:00 PM

Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St. (inside City Hall)

The Four C Notes

Recreating the Music of Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons

SAT, JAN 28 ● 7:00 PM

Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St. (inside City Hall)

Tapestry, The Carole King Songbook with Suzanne O Davis & Band

SAT, FEB 4 ● 7:00 PM

Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St. (inside City Hall)

Visit the Tarpon Arts website for details on these performances and for more information

tarponarts.org

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Fine Artist

Bula Barua

S H O W C A S E

Live with beauty. ~ Bula Barua

A R T I S T

Blown Glass on Canvas Bespoke Fine Art Bula Barua is an award-winning, internationally acclaimed artist specializing in “Blown Glass on Canvas.” In her earlier days as an artist, Bula was a traditional oil painter in Los Angeles. When she attended a glass-blowing class, she immediately fell in love with the luminosity, reflection and dynamic quality of glass. Because of her love for this new artistic element, she worked for 2 years to find a way to incorporate blown glass into her paintings. The result is her majestic “Blown Glass on Canvas” bespoke art.

Bula uses hand-mixed pigments in her artworks, which give the colors a dynamic motion, as they change with the light. As the sun sets, the artworks also change, creating a different menagerie with each passing moment. Some of her pieces include luxury elements, such as precious and semi-precious gems, 24-karat gold leaf, Swarovski crystals, and geodes. She also has incorporated healing crystals and custom-blown glass in her artworks.

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At the Gulf Shore

The gallery is located next door to The Fairgrounds St. Pete Museum in The Factory St. Pete. Complimentary parking is located both behind and in front of the gallery.

www.bulagallery.com Instagram | Web | Facebook

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A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

Fine Artist

Bula Barua

A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

Live with beauty. ~ Bula Barua

“Creating Blown Glass on Canvas is like dancing the tango. Each moment of creation is fluid and unpredictable. Each bespoke artwork is one of a kind, as even I could never recreate it again in its exact form.”

Bula uses resin as the finishing touch on her artworks. “I love that the viewer can see his or her own reflection in my art. You become a part of the art. I want to remind you that you are beautiful inside and out.”

www.bulagallery.com Instagram | Web | Facebook

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At the Gulf Shore

S H O W C A S E

Bula’s collectors range from international celebrities to local residents.

Each one is treated like family when they pass through the gallery doors.

A R T I S T

The Bula Barua Gallery is celebrating its new location in The Factory St. Pete. The space is modern and has a New York vibe. Its brushed concrete floors, exposed beams and piping in the ceiling, along with the beautiful lighting create an experience like no other.

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Photographer

Mary Lou Johnson

A R T I S T

S H O W C A S E

“Nature is a stress buster whether we are actually there or simply looking at a picture of a calming beautiful scene. It can be very calming and healing,”

Florida’s Gulf Coast is abundant with picturesque scenes that only Mary Lou Johnson can capture. Her artistic creations are inspired by watery scenes and their infinite array of color, mood and composition. Her photographs display her love of photography and digital painting capturing God’s beauty around her.

Mary Lou is a strong supporter of the conservation of the natural world that surrounds us. She encourages everyone to observe and protect the beauty around us. Collectors around the world bring her breathtaking outdoor scenes into their personal home, hospital and business spaces.

www.maryloujohnsonphotography.com 26

At the Gulf Shore

S H O W C A S E A R T I S T “She’s captured not just the “real” Florida, but also the magical Florida, the one we see in our dreams and carry in our hearts. Her pictures are tender, honoring fragile details of sea oat, coquina and mist. But they are also majestic, celebrating sunset explosions and cathedrals of clouds. They’re so vivid you will smell the salty air, feel the hot sand between your toes, and hear gulls calling over the fizz of the incoming tide.” ~Kathleen O’Brien, author

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Photographer

S H O W C A S E

Mary Lou Johnson The Lure of Sarasota and Her Islands is Mary Lou’s second book of fine art and is a companion to The Lure of Longboat Key. This award-winning book was featured in New York at the International BookExpoUSA and is currently in its second printing.

Art Honors & Awards  Finalist in NY Times Square International Competition  Finalist in Photographer of the Year for Popular Photography Magazine  Featured in The PPA Showcase, the annual book of Professional Photographers of Shutterbug Photography Magazine, Southern Boating, Sarasota Herald, America, Siesta Observer, Longboat Key Observer, Longboat Key News

A R T I S T

 Covers of the Sarasota Magazine and The Longboat Key Isles Magazine

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At the Gulf Shore

S H O W C A S E Books:

A R T I S T

The Lure of Longboat Key and The Lure of Sarasota and Her Islands are available from:  www.MaryLouJohnsonPhotography.com

Upcoming Shows

 Amazon.com

Nov. 5-6, 2022 Venice Ave, Venice Art Classic Festival

 Longboat Key Publix  Garden Argosy on St. Armands Circle  Bookstore 1 Sarasota

Nov. 12-13,2022 St. Armands Art Festival

 Gidget’s on Siesta Key

Feb. 11-12, 2023 Downtown Main Street Sarasota Festival of the Arts Feb. 25-26, 2023 2nd Annual Longboat Key Festival of the Arts 600 Bay Isles Road, Longboat Key, Fl

 Longboat Key Club Marina Shop  Longboat Key Club Spa  Sarasota Bookstore on Main  Select coastal book and gift stores

March 4-5, 2023 Venice Ave. Venice Art Classic Festival

www.maryloujohnsonphotography.com 29

All Aboard!

Dana’s Railroad Supply in Hernando County, Spring Hill, brilliantly sets itself aside from all the large retail stores. People come from all over the state, and out-of-state too, to visit this shop filled with heaps of trains and train accessories. Young and old come to watch the West Hernando Central Railroad with its intricate detail and amazing layout which was recently updated.

This 800-square-foot shop has all kinds of train sets, rail cars assembled or in kits, and buildings assembled or in kits. You can find a wide variety of tracks, switches, books, magazines, scenery, miniature people, and electrical accessories. They also sell plastic ship and airplane models. Special orders are always welcome for your specific needs!

Dana’s Railroad Supply hosts numerous Train Shows and Swap Meets during the year.

www.danasrailroadsupply.com 30

At the Gulf Shore

During these events, you can connect with other hobbyists and modelers.

Train scales of all sizes are available such as HO, N Scale, G scales, Lionel O and O-27 scale, and Athearn HO scale.

Some of the brands they carry are Atlas, Bachmann, Broadway Limited, Bowser, InterMountain, Kato, Lionel, Micro Trains Line, Vallejo, and Woodland Scenics.

Dana’s Railroad Supply also can perform the installation of DCC decoders, sound systems, and programming on select store HO and G scale model engines.

Custom building, painting, and decaling are available on store stock items.

Doesn’t your Christmas tree need a train running underneath it? Dana’s Railroad has holiday train sets and others like the Harry Potter train set. And, if you are looking for a set for the little ones, they have wooden sets available.

Whether you are an experienced train hobbyist or are someone looking to capture a new hobby, Dana’s Railroad Supply can guide you above and

beyond on how to start. They are a small, independent train shop located at 4042 Deltona Blvd. Spring Hill, Florida. Catch the train store hours Tuesdays through Fridays from 11 am to 5 pm, Saturdays from 10 am to 4 pm, closed Sundays & Mondays. Have a question?

Give them a call at 352-684-2484.

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From Epcot and Universal to Sea World to the Everglades, Florida is filled with exciting tourist attractions that are enjoyable for the whole family. But have you ever heard of Dry Tortugas National Park?

Located less than 70 miles from Key West, Dry Tortugas National Park comprises seven islands isolated in the Gulf of Mexico. The seven keys that make up the Dry Tortugas are Loggerhead Key, Garden Key, Bush Key, Long Key, Hospital Key, Middle Key, and East Key. Dry Tortugas National Park also houses historic Fort Jefferson, one of the most significant brick structures in the United States.

The Rich History of the Dry Tortugas

The United States purchased Florida from Spain in 1822 and gained control of the Dry Tortugas. Work on the vast fortress Fort Jefferson began in 1847 but stalled around 1860. The unfinished fort was used as a prison during the Civil War. Dr. Samuel Mudd, infamous for aiding John Wilkes Booth, was imprisoned there. A naval base was established at the Dry Tortugas during the 1880s and was used as a radio and refueling station. There was also a seaplane base set up during World War I. President Franklin D. Roosevelt designated Fort Jefferson as a National Monument in 1935. In 1992, Congress expanded the monument area to include all islands and redesignated it as Dry Tortugas National Park. It was established to preserve Fort Jefferson and the shipwrecks and protect the various marine ecosystems living there.

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At the Gulf Shore

Aerial View of Fort Jefferson | Photo by Thomas Barrat | Adobe Stock

The Dry Tortugas were first discovered by Ponce de Leon in the 1500s. He referred to them as the Tortugas, the Spanish word for turtle, because he caught more than 100 turtles there. The Dry Tortugas have been the location of several shipwrecks dating back to the 17th century. These include the HMS Tyger, a fleet of Spanish ships that contained treasure, and the Avanti.

Dry Tortugas National Park

A Beautiful, Historic Place to Visit 33

Aerial of Ft. Jefferson, courtesy National Parka and Wildlife

How to get to Dry Tortugas National Park Since the Dry Tortugas are islands covered by more than 99 percent of water, they are only accessible by boat or plane. Seaplane Adventures in Key West is the only seaplane service permitted to fly to the Dry Tortugas. You can book half-day and full-day trips through this service.

1.

Photo Courtesy National Park Service - small grunts

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At the Gulf Shore

Charter boats are also available for day trips. For those choosing to go and stay more than just a day at the park, the most attractive travel option is the Yankee Freedom III Dry Tortugas Ferry boat. The ferry ride takes approximately two hours to get to the islands. Please note that pets are not allowed on the ferry unless they are certified service animals.

2.

Photo Courtesy National Park Service - Interior archways at Fort Jefferson

3.

Grouper - Shutterstock

Camping, Diving, Snorkeling and More There is so much to do and explore at the Dry Tortugas! Many people come for day trips to specifically do one thing, such as fishing, birdwatching or touring Fort Jefferson. If you plan to fully explore the islands, your best bet is to camp there.

You can make reservations to camp through the Yankee Freedom, but they stay booked, so be sure to plan accordingly. There are also regular camping sites open to the public, but they are first come, first served and fill up fast. Gear and supplies are unavailable once you get there, so you must bring everything you need. Due to the weight of camping gear and supplies, campers are only permitted to come to the Dry Tortugas via the ferry, not by seaplane.

The beaches at Dry Tortugas are beautiful and secluded. The sparkling blue waters are perfect for swimming, diving and snorkeling. Designated swimming areas are located at Loggerhead Key and Garden Key. You can swim around the Moat Wall at Garden Key in the daytime or go snorkeling under it at night. If you want to explore a coral reef, there is the Texas Rock Coral Reef at Garden Key, Little Africa Coral Reef at Loggerhead Key, and a snorkeling site at Long Reef Key. Lighthouse | Photo by Henryk Sadura | Adobe Stock

History buffs will love exploring Fort Jefferson through a guided tour. You can also explore the coal pilings left behind from the naval coal piers at Garden Key. The Windjammer shipwreck sites are a famous historic diving attraction on Loggerhead Key. There are also two inactive lighthouses, the Dry Tortugas Lighthouse at Loggerhead Key and the Garden Key Lighthouse, that are rich in history and great to explore.

If you want to view the wildlife, the islands are the perfect place to do just that. Five species of sea turtles, coral reefs, octopus, squid, sharks, lobsters, tropical reef fish, Goliath groupers, and more than 100 species of birds, including the White-tailed Tropicbird, all reside at the Dry Tortugas at various times during the year. But please remember, this is their home. Wildlife viewing is encouraged, but touching them is prohibited.

If you’re ready to visit one of the most magnificent, historic, and truly unique places in Florida, don’t hesitate and begin planning your trip to the Dry Tortugas today!

Mushroom Coral, National Parks Service

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