Green Bench Monthly - Vol 4, Issue 1, January 2019

Vol. 4, Issue 1, JANUARY 2019

St. Pete’s Direct-Mail Community Magazine

Keeping St. Petersburg LOCAL: Now More Than Ever! pg. 24 From the Archives

Jannus & Benoist pg. 5

Raising Locals

Kid-Friendly Restaurants pg. 12

Downtown Developments

Coming Soon pg. 29

Publishers

Ashley & Tony Sica

Advertising Sales Eileen Brock

Editors (this issue)

Rui Farias, Marilyn Jade Mary Jane Park

Contributors (this issue) Andy Bragg, Tara Britton, Tina Stewart Brakebill, Nicole Brand, Vandi Carmella, Erin Cody, Cindy Garza Ontkos, Rui Farias, Denielle Kennett, Jack Spinrad, Karin Wahlrab, Brian Zucker

Photographers

Brian Brakebill Emily Canfield, Kelly Nash Cover Photo:

KSPL t-shirt in front of “Stick with what you love” mural by Chad Mize Photo by Tony Sica

Contact

PO BOX 76095 St. Petersburg, FL 33734 (727) 280-5406 hello@greenbenchmonthly.com

Proud member of:

New Year’s Eve Sunrise in front of the Mahaffey Theater.

Photo by David Calvin of David Calvin Furniture Studio (see ad on pg. 25 )

From the Bench

Its a new year, St. Pete! We’re pretty excited about what 2019 has in store. Make sure to mark your calendar with the events on pages 4, 9, 24, and 30. Do you have any story ideas that you’d like to see featured in GBM this year? We want to hear from you! Send us an email or visit our website, greenbenchmonthly.com, to share your suggestions.

Till next time, hello@greenbenchmonthly.com

In This Issue:

14 Movers and Makers: DIY This Year

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18 Adjusting Expectations – The Doctor Is In

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From the Museum’s Archives: Jannus and Benoist Snell Isle: Perry Snell’s Pearl of Pinellas

St. Petersburg Conference of World Affairs

10 Counting Your Time When You’re Off the Clock

12 Raising Locals: Kid-Friendly Restaurants Parents Will Love, Too

16 Meet Lunch Pals

20 A New Year & a Better You: with Pacholec Center for Weight Loss (and more)

22 Helen Wade Insurance Agency Family Owned and Operated, Local Knowledge 24 Keeping St. Pete LOCAL Now More Than Ever!

26 People of St. Pete: Colleen McGrath Lilley 27 Inject some “Hygge” into your winter!

29 Downtown Developments

by St. Pete Rising 30 Events

Please give a warm welcome to our new advertisers: Shorecrest Prep (pg. 4), Sherpa Wealth Partners (pg. 8). Tell them you saw their ad in GBM!

Green Bench Monthly Is Direct-mailed to 15,500 homes and businesses in zip codes 33701, 33704 & 33713. Neighborhoods included in our mailing:

Allendale, Crescent Heights, Crescent Lake, Downtown, Euclid-St. Paul, Five Points, Greater Woodlawn, Historic Kenwood, Historic Old Northeast, Magnolia Heights, North East Park, Snell Isle, & Woodlawn

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From the Museum’s Archives: Tony Jannus and the Benoist XIV

With St. Petersburg Museum of History Executive Director, Rui Farias On January 1, 1914, a dashing young pilot flew St. Petersburg into history. Using the Central Basin as a runway, and cheered on by 3,000 spectators and international media, Tony Jannus lifted the Benoist XIV airboat into the sky at 10 am and turned towards Tampa. With former mayor A.C. Pheil as his passenger, the inaugural flight of the St. Petersburg-Tampa Airboat Line became the world’s first commercial airline flight. The world’s first airline was the brainchild of Florida businessman Percival Fansler who came up with the plan of flying people and cargo, from point to point, on a set schedule similar to

that of a railroad. The flight covered the distance across Tampa Bay in 22 minutes. Without bridges connecting the two cities, the trip would take 7-9 hours by automobile and 6-8 hours by train.

A working replica of the Benoist hangs in the St. Pete Museum of History’s Flight One Gallery, dedicated to the city’s role in the birth of aviation.

This historical image of St. Petersburg, and many more, are available in the Museum’s archives. For more information, visit HistoryStPete.org.

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Snell Isle Bridge. Photo by City of St. Petersburg.

Exploring Snell Isle—Perry Snell’s Pearl of Pinellas

By Jack Spinrad It’s the Sunday before Christmas, and my wife is getting the house ready for company. When you consider how long we’ve been married, you would think I know better, but I just have to ask, “What can I do to help?”

Well, I guess I am not surprised when she says, “How about getting out of the house and doing something outside?”

“I can do that,” I say. “I think I’ll go for a ride.” I load my bicycle on the bed of my truck and drive to Coffee Pot Park at 30th Avenue NE and First Street. I park in the shade of a large old oak tree.

It’s a pleasant December day, and the park is behind me as I make my way along Coffee Pot Boulevard NE. Traffic is light, but the brick road is rough enough to rattle my teeth, so I opt to use the wide paved walk along the bayou. It would be difficult to find a more pleasant way to spend the morning. Small uninhabited mangrove islands dot the water. Stately giant herons, egrets and even a few cormorants rest in the green mangrove branches. At 23rd Avenue NE, I cross over to the opposite side of the road to enter the Granada Terrace area, time for a short break.

From my place on a bench, I peer across Coffee Pot Boulevard at the

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concrete semicircle that protrudes into the bayou. I can’t help but notice a small crowd gathered around the steps leading to the water, looking and pointing into the water. My curiosity aroused, I soon join the onlookers and ask a tall gentleman what is happening.

“Nothing really unusual,” he replies. “There’s a manatee near the steps that just broke the surface. They can often be seen in the bayou this time of year looking for warmer waters to spend the winter.” My curiosity satisfied, I continue toward 21st Avenue NE where it becomes Snell Isle Boulevard and ride over the bridge to Snell Isle.

At the far end, I stop in front of the St. Petersburg Woman’s Club at 40 Snell Isle Blvd NE. The building was built on land given to the woman’s club by Snell in 1928. After much debate, the club accepted the land but was concerned it was too far from the streetcar line and in a jungle accessible only by a rickety wooden bridge. The dedication of the clubhouse took place in November 1929. Because of the Woman’s Club’s continued pressure on the city a new bridge was finally built and open to traffic on Christmas Day 1931. When it was rebuilt in 1996, residents of the area insisted on keeping the distinct style intact.

By 1906, Snell had a keen interest in civic affairs. With W.L. Straub’s vision for a beautiful waterfront, Snell helped preserve the land between downtown and Coffee Pot Bayou and later donated all of the land to the city provided it was used as a waterfront park.

He purchased the land that was to become Snell Isle on April 4, 1911, for $2,000. It was a low-lying area of sand and mangroves. In order to build the upscale community he envisioned, Snell had to raise the land using dredges and fill dirt from Tampa. When the development opened in October 1925, only 39 of its 275 acres were above the high tide line. The first nine homes built were in the classic European design in the Brightwaters area facing the water. Among them is a three-story Mediterranean Revival mansion at 375 Brightwaters Blvd. NE, which became the Snell family’s landmark home. When Florida’s land boom collapsed, the state made an early entry into the Great Depression, nearly devastating local developers. Regardless, Snell quickly sold more than $7 million worth of lots there. At great personal expense, he alone was able

Snell Residence on Brightwaters Blvd.

Photo courtesy of the St. Petersburg Museum of History.

to fulfill the commitments he made to his clients.

Snell wanted his upscale development to be “the pearl of Pinellas.�

He erected statues and sculptures, including concrete renderings of jungle animals and griffins at street intersections. Some were imported from Europe and others manufactured in the United States. Unfortunately, even paradise has its delinquents. Not long after the statues were erected, vandals started to damage them or haul them away. Even the city damaged some of the statues while installing new sewer lines. By 1980, nearly all of the originals were gone. Two of the missing statues were discovered some years later gracing the home driveway of a retired Northeast High School custodian. Over the years all of the missing statues have been replaced with duplicates, and still more have been added. Today, the neighborhood is filled with statues of lions, panthers, tigers and griffins.

Snell Isle Blvd statue. Photo by City of St. Petersburg.

As I continue on Snell Isle Boulevard, I come to the C. Perry Snell Memorial with its brass commemorative plaque, where the boulevard turns into a divided road. At the east end of Snell Isle Boulevard is the Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club. Snell opened the first golf course with nine holes in 1920 and called it the Coffee Pot Golf Club. The clubhouse at the then-renamed Sunset Golf and Country Club was built in 1926, in the Mediterranean style. The building is a mixture of styles with many Moorish details, including a tower and a tall oniondome minaret. The building has not changed much over the years and remains the focal point of the Snell Isle development.

I can easily spend longer touring the Isle with its beautiful curved, tree-lined streets and glorious homes, but I should head home to see whether I will be allowed back into the house!

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St. Petersburg Conference of World Affairs

By Andy Bragg

Would you like to learn more about international issues?

The seventh annual St. Petersburg Conference of World Affairs scheduled Feb. 12-15 will feature a keynote address by former U.S. Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Charles W. “Chas” Freeman Jr. and more than 30 panel discussions at the University of South Florida St. Petersburg.

Conference President Diane Seligsohn has focused on expanding the variety of speakers and discussion topics to inform and educate residents of the Tampa Bay area and beyond about critical international issues. Last year’s panel discussions attracted a combined audience of 7,500 vs. the initial 2013 conference’s 200 attendees.

Panel discussions will focus on topics such as health, culture and food as well as geopolitical issues. The range of subjects will be broad, from very current issues such as trade wars and Saudi Arabia relations to St. Petersburg-specific discussions on dining and foreign investment.

There will be film screenings, book talks and audiovisual presentations.

Organizers have been exploring designating an “International Week” in St. Petersburg that, in addition to the conference, will include a Tuesday night jazz concert with international food trucks at the Palladium, a special international menu at 400 Beach Seafood & Tap House and a discount on room rates at several downtown hotels.

Seligsohn, in her second year as president, is a journalist, filmmaker and educator with a focus on media, France and sub-Saharan Africa. She splits her time between Paris and St. Petersburg. Her background meshes well with those of the conference founders, retired diplomat Douglas McElhaney and political science professor Thomas Smith, who remain active board members.

Biographies of this year’s panelists and speakers, including diplomats, authors, professors as well as lawyers, doctors and military officers are online at worldaffairsconference.com.

The website has current complete information on the conference locations, schedule and speakers. There is no cost to attend; participants can register at the website and sign up for email updates.

Donations to support the continued growth of the conference are encouraged via the website. Sponsors include Raymond James, USFSP and the Tampa Bay Times. Potential volunteers and social-media promoters also can contact the conference organizers via the website to help in a variety of ways.

The 7th Annual St. Petersburg Conference of World Affairs will be held February 12th at the University of South Florida. For more info, visit worldaffairsconference.com.

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Using the mango picker, a sheet and teamwork to get mangoes from far up in the tree, members work together at timebank member, Pat Dunham’s house.

Counting Your Time When You’re Off the Clock

By Nicole Brand

When was the last time you took a friend to the airport or helped a neighbor clear the garage? Maybe you gifted a plant or looked over someone’s resume. If you think hard enough, chances are you’ve participated in some form of community or neighborly assistance in the past month, but you probably didn’t give it a second thought. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics tell us roughly a quarter of Americans claim to volunteer, but that doesn’t account for the times we lent uncompensated assistance to those we love, people we know and even total strangers.

For the past three years, a local organization called the St. Pete Time Bank has been recording and facilitating these small exchanges, documenting 7,298 hours through a timebank thus far.

Timebanking is Easy

Here’s how it works: Sam joins the St. Pete Time Bank in midJuly and sees that John from the next neighborhood over needs help taming his overzealous mango tree. A day is organized and the following Saturday, Sam shows up and joins two others to help harvest. They spend an hour picking mangoes and another making chutney. All three get two hours each of ‘timebanking’ credit from John. A month later, Sam’s car won’t start. She exchanges one of her hours for assistance from a mechanic that is also a member of the timebank. A week after, she has a few accounting questions, logs onto the timebanking software and connects with an accountant offering help. She trades in her last hour to get her questions answered.

These exchanges are already happening all over St. Pete, but the they aren’t the only benefit. Members consistently report interpersonal connection as the highlight of their timebanking experience. Member Laura Oldanie was able to secure help laying sustainable flooring in her home, but also found joy in interacting with Joe, another environmentally-minded member. Sheena Qualles-De Freece, stated that for her, “the human connection goes beyond words.” She provided a ride from the hospital for an ailing member and recognized that, “a profound unconditional friendship has emerged” from the exchange.

A Global Phenomenon

Timebanking isn’t singular to St. Pete, or even America. Since the concept was formalized in the U.S. by Edgar Cahn in 1980, timebanking has spread throughout the world. In 2010, the New Zealand city of Christchurch was devastated by a 7.1 earthquake.

Community organizers who previously studied with Cahn in the U.S. and implemented a timebanking hub banded together as the civil defense response. They assisted with earthquake cleanup and rebuilt by utilizing timebanking hours.

Another timebank, Lyttelton Harbour Timebank, is even used in a local school. The principal understood how the timebank wasn’t just accruing hours for the school, but was providing empowerment opportunities for its youth to organize and connect with one another through community service. Several years ago, Lyttelton Harbour Timebank Coordinator, Jill Larking, organized a “living economy

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Timebankers using hours to charter a private ride on timebanking member Fred Levine’s boat.

conference” while schoolkids ran catering for the event. It was a way for them to teach adults, and one another, nurturing a sense of accomplishment and respect all around.

Kids, Teens and Timebanking

Here in St. Pete, a similar project is brewing. Soon, a youthowned and operated urban farm will launch at the Enoch Davis Recreation Center. The young leaders have named it GIT (Growing Individuals Together) Farming, and spent the past year planning with a team. The Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg recently awarded funding to the project, aiming to help establish the farm as a member of the St. Pete Time Bank and help organize safe ways through which kids and teens can participate in time banking.

Inspired by the New Zealand timebank, the urban farm will have several membership avenues to ensure positive experiences.

Young people can accrue their hours on behalf of the farm, which then can be used by the farm for special projects, like harvesting.

Hours can also be banked by individual youths in-connection with a responsible coordinator or parent. A third option comes from the Lyttelton Harbour Timebank: A Community Chest can be implemented where hours that members accrue that they don’t need or want can be gifted as a surplus for those who haven’t banked any time credit of their own, but might need immediate assistance.

The practical applications are truly remarkable. If you’ve got a mind to execute your New Year’s resolution, you can do it with the St. Pete Time Bank motto in mind: “Where your time counts when you’re off the clock.”

To learn more about Timebanking, check out Edgar Khan’s book, No More Throw-Away People or visit the local chapter website: stpete.timebanks.org

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addition to some tasty takes on diner classics. With a dedicated menu just for your kiddos that comes with crayons to keep their hands busy, we love that our tiny gourmands have the choice of breakfast or lunch at anytime with healthy sides like cauliflower or applesauce. Plus, who doesn’t love a place where happy hour lasts around the clock?

2ndandsecond.com

Dr. BBQ

This new Edge District eatery is already making waves in the ‘Burg and while you’ve most likely heard about their meat-smoking process, what you haven’t heard about is how much they love kids. With plenty of child-friendly menu options — from hand-cut fries to their BBQ Spaghetti — it’s a delicious way to spend a night out. Take our word, you must try the Epic Peanut Butter Pie. drbbqs.com

FarmTable Cucina

Pacific Counter. Photo by Vandi Carmella.

Raising Locals: Kid-Friendly Restaurants Parents Will Love, Too

by Vandi Carmella and Denielle Kennett There are restaurants for kids, there are restaurants for adults, and then there’s the sweet spot — places that welcome children while also serving parent-friendly food. That means St. Petersburg’s emerging culinary scene also offers options for those of us skilled at strapping a wiggly toddler into a high chair.

January is National Sunday Supper Month, and as parents most of us are tethered to the typical family-style dinner of Uber Eats or fast food when taking a break from the kitchen. Why not spice things up a bit in 2019?

Here are some St. Pete establishments to try with your crew this January (and the year to come) where kids are greeted with a smile and the food is just as delightful.

Disclaimer: We are not professional food critics, just moms who like to occasionally eat out with our children.

2nd & Second

The 24-hour restaurant located on the corner of, you guessed it, 2nd and Second in DTSP serves up a fun breakfast menu all day in

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Sure, FarmTable Cucina presents an eight-course culinary experience with its acclaimed chef and expert sommelier on select days, but the Italian-inspired restaurant also caters to families with savory sharing plates and a classic children’s menu including generous portions of favorites like cheese pizza and macaroni and cheese. Our favorite part? Kids get a free plate of Classic Spaghetti every Sunday evening at this casual gourmet dining spot located on the second floor of LOCALE Market at The Mall at Sundial. farmtablecucina.com

Hawkers

Say hello to the best happy hour in town! With $3-5 small plates and adult beverages ranging from wine to local craft beer, you can feed a family of 4 or more for less than the cost of a large pizza. No, seriously.

The happy hour runs Monday through Friday, 3 to 6pm, which is the perfect family dinner time to avoid crowds and older patrons.

Additionally, the incredibly friendly staff paired with the super cool atmosphere makes this the perfect offbeat family night out on Central Avenue. eathawkers.com

Pacific Counter

Roll it or bowl it at Pacific Counter, the fresh new kid on the 600 block of Central Avenue. We’ve been smitten with this poke bowl and sushi burrito hotspot since it opened in September, but only recently began to take advantage of its major kid appeal. Here, your little foodies can choose a kids’ burrito or bowl with noodles or rice topped with their pick of protein, sauce and fixings, including fresh fruit and veggies.

Even desserts like Dole Whips and young coconuts are fast and guiltfree — or icy cold and full of alcohol if you’re over 21! (Frostee Kirin or Sake Slush, anyone?) pacificcounter.com Vandi and Denielle are the moms behind Sunshine City Kids, an online resource for all things kid-friendly in St. Petersburg. Follow the Sunshine City Kids at www.sunshinecitykids.com.

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Left: Whim So Doodle supply store; Right: Nook & Cranny DIY Workshop. Photos by Tara Britton.

Movers and Makers: DIY This Year

By Tara Britton If you’re anything like us, you’re amazed by the talent of local handcrafters. Sunny St. Petersburg is filled with entrepreneurs, many of whom have based their small businesses on the business of making itself! In St. Pete we have no shortage of opportunities to feel like a maker in the making. Whether you want to give the gift of handmade, or are just looking to expend some creative energy, rejoice knowing there are countless do it yourself studios nearby!

Power Tools Included

Nook & Cranny DIY Workshops is “Tampa Bay’s original DIY home decor studio,” where they say “DIY is in their DNA.” In 2012 the family run business opened their doors, and brought Pinterest projects to life. Their hands on, instructor led workshops put power tools in the hands of everyone from beginners to seasoned crafters. Workshops are offered nightly and attendees are welcome to bring food and drink into the studio. If you can’t visit the studio in person, consider their DIY homemaker kits; order simple projects that are shipped directly to your home and receive virtual guidance on their Facebook page! Nook & Cranny was recognized as “Tampa Bay’s Best Carpenter” by Best of the Bay 2018. Visit them at: 10360 US 19, Pinellas Park, FL 33782 or shopnookandcranny.com.

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Arts and Crafts

Whim So Doodle, the family-owned art supply store, has been a part of St. Pete’s creative community since 1999! Their company mission revolves around fellowship based on a “common love for creating and supporting artists.” They fulfill that mission by providing a store where artists can buy tools and supplies, support one another, learn and teach others! The shop hosts local artists who run classes like: calligraphy, journaling, embroidery, stitching, painting, flower arranging and much more. If you’re shopping for art supplies, check out their Frequent Shopper program, which allows customers to accumulate points to earn discounts. Visit them at: 237 2nd Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 or whimsodoodle.com.

No Experience Needed

If your 2019 goals include tapping into your creativity, look no further. No experience is necessary at our local DIY studios, and the options are bountiful! Stash-A Place For Yarn serves the knitters, crocheters and other fiber artists with supplies and classes at 2820 1st Avenue North, St. Petersburg, FL 33713. Creative Earth offers fun and quirky craft classes seven days a week at 505 76th Avenue, St. Pete Beach, FL 33706. Visit AR Workshop for home decor courses at 2805 Dr. MLK Jr Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. Makeme Studio offers classes for adults, camps for kids and unique private parties at 3028 Dr. MLK Jr Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. Feel like a regular Picasso at Painting With a Twist at 2527 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg, FL 33713.

Market Mafia is a resource connecting residents and visitors throughout Greater Tampa Bay with local handcraft markets. To find local happenings and #HitTheMarket, visit www.MarketMafia.com.

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Lunch Pal volunteers meet with elementaryaged students throughout the school year.

Meet Lunch Pals

By Karin Wahlrab What is Lunch Pals?

The Lunch Pals program is a network of volunteers who meet with Pinellas students for thirty minutes once a week at lunchtime. This program, beginning as a partnership between Raymond James and the Pinellas County School district, matches students needing consistent adult companionship with working volunteers. The program focuses on elementary-aged students during a single school year, but bonds are sometimes so strong, volunteers remain with their pals for longer!

Ron Diner, the founder of the program in partnership with Raymond James, has been with one of his students for four consecutive years!

Who Can Be a Lunch Pal?

Anyone can apply to participate in the Lunch Pals program! There is no counseling involved, no certificate or degree required. Volunteers must simply desire to make friends with a young person, as well the time and consistency to be with that student every week throughout the school year. The interaction is limited to lunch periods at the

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student’s school only; there is no outside contact between volunteers and students. Whether through conversation, books, games, or laughter, the objective is to be a positive and consistent figure in a child’s life every week.

Background checks are required for prospective volunteers.

Following the application and orientation process, a student is matched to their Lunch Pal. Volunteers will meet once a week with their students, on the same day each week, to provide stability and encouragement. Ron Diner attested to the happiness and confidence instilled in students who feel they want to be seen, heard and attended to by an adult every week. Stability, consistency and friendship are the foundation on which the program operates.

How Does Lunch Pals Benefit St. Petersburg?

Benefits to the community are myriad, as the program creates positive experiences for both volunteers and students. Students who interact with Lunch Pals during school often perform better and are less likely to miss school. The influence of a kind, professionally motivated adult can also help students avoid troublesome situations.

Confident graduates may likely contribute to growing industries in the St. Petersburg community. Additionally, adults who spend time with their Lunch Pals experience the joy of interacting with

a younger person, and knowing their actions contribute positively towards that student’s growth. Those students grow up, give back to the community, and make St. Petersburg a more attractive city in which to live and work.

Businesses also benefit from participating. Employees in the program report feeling more involved in their business and personal communities. Employees use their hour-long lunch break to visit local schools for volunteer time - and fun!

A “Growing” Program

Lunch Pals aims to grow. In the three years since its conception, the number of Lunch Pals student/volunteer participants has grown exponentially, now providing 1,250 students with a Lunch Pal. Ron Diner hopes to have a rate of 100% satisfaction between students and volunteers in the program.

Community partners and businesses are encouraged to engage in the Lunch Pals program. Businesses who participate in the program nurture a thriving St. Petersburg community while mentoring more confident potential employees and entrepreneurs. Ron Diner acknowledged that the program starts a positive feedback loop.

Quoting Oprah with a smile, he says: “Nobody makes it alone. And we are all mentors to people even when we don’t know it.”

You Can Be A Part of This Program!

Here’s How:

Businesses and individuals should start by visiting joinlunchpals. com. Interested candidates are also encouraged to “like” Lunch Pals on Facebook and follow them on Twitter. Pinellas County School District students look forward to meeting you!

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Adjusting Expectations – The Doctor Is In

By Tara Britton After hurting his neck and visiting an orthopaedic office, Dr. Scott Rubin was left without relief and a fat bill. At the time, Dr. Rubin had degrees in Business and Broadcast Journalism and was working for a video production company. While editing a chiropractic school commercial, Rubin was inspired by the field of chiropractic medicine. The cost and effectiveness of chiropractic care “simply made sense” to him.

So moved by the benefits of the practice, Rubin decided to go to chiropractic school himself. After graduating in 1994, he moved to St. Petersburg where he opened up his own facility, Rubin Chiropractic Health Center, and has been practicing chiropractic care, acupuncture and pilates instruction since.

His Practice

Chiropractic care is a form of non-invasive alternative medicine to drug treatment or surgical procedures. It’s appropriate for people of all ages, from infants to seniors. This type of medicine is used to treat and prevent a wide variety of ailments. Most frequently, it is used to treat issues that affect muscles, joints, bones and connective tissue.

Rubin says it’s been incredible to watch the chiropractic field change

over the twenty plus years he’s been practicing. In order to stay up to snuff with developments, he’s had to grow with the field, increasing his knowledge base and certifications. “The population today is more educated,” said Rubin, noting “they want more sophisticated treatment.”

His interest in staying up-to-date on chiropractic developments, along with his interest in the sports field specifically, has led him to obtain additional certifications in: acupuncture, applied kinesiology, Graston Technique, Active Release Technique (ART), Titleist Performance Institute (TPI), 600 hours power pilates instructor and 200 hours yoga teacher training. More recently, he’s obtained certifications including: Diplomat in Sports Medicine (DACBSP) and Functional Movement Screenings (FMS). As if that’s not impressive enough, he’s a treating physician for the United States Olympic training centers.

According to Dr. Scott Rubin, “Everyone is participating in an athletic event on some level.” A patient doesn’t have to be deemed an Olympian to benefit from a good chiropractor. Sitting at a desk for eight to twelve hours a day, for example, puts tremendous strain on various parts of the body including the neck. Mothers to small children and those whose work involves repetitive motion are all athletes in a sense at Rubin Chiropractic Health Center. “Anything that puts stress on your body, thus, is an athletic event,” says Rubin.

The Group

At Rubin Chiropractic Health Center, the foundation of the practice is focused on strength. Patients are treated as athletes in their own right as the mission is to “[Help] bodies perform better.”

Without minimizing the benefits of merely “cracking” or adjusting, Rubin’s practice encompasses much more by way of treatment options. Most people associate chiropractors with quick adjustment appointments and expect to hear snaps, crackles and pops.

At Rubin Chiropractic Health Center, however, all aspects of health are addressed including but not limited to: nutrition, physical, and mental health. Their aim is to analyze the full picture of a client’s health in order to make an individual treatment plan.

With their ultimate goal being to help people “move their health in a forward direction,” the practice utilizes a slew of effective

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Dr. Rubin’s ultimate goal is to get clients to a place of maintenance, where they are moved out of the clinic setting and into the pilates studio.

Photos by Kelly Nash Photography

methods. Treatments include: Rehabilitation and Power Plate Therapy, Graston Technique, Electric Stimulation, Emotional Release Technique, Neuromuscular Therapy, Cold Laser, Acupuncture, Active Release Technique, Elite Recovery, and more. Massage therapy options include: trigger point, prenatal, deep tissue, cranial sacral, Swedish, geriatric and sports.

Their perfect client is one who wants to engage and be proactive.

Successful are those open to ideas, a variety of treatment options, and suggestions. Rubin is proud to have long-term clients who have trusted the center with their health for over 20 years.

The Rubin Chiropractic Health Center has their own yoga, pilates and fitness studio open to patients and visitors alike. Rubin’s ultimate goal is to get clients to a place of maintenance, where they are moved out of the clinic setting and into the pilates studio.

Take A Crack At It

At an initial visit to Rubin Chiropractic Health Center, expect the team to spend an hour getting to know your specific stressors and needs. They will complete a head-to-toe checkup, muscle testing and diagnosis through applied kinesiology. Specific plans are created with suggestions involving either the clinic, studio, or both. Individual analysis is neurologically based. Rubin and his team determine which areas need improving in order to achieve health goals and help clients operate at an optimal level.

Rubin Chiropractic accepts most major insurance plans and offers reasonable cash prices. Visit them Monday through Friday at 1700 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. Call (727) 351-8304 or schedule your appointment online at rubinhealthcenter.com.

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From left to right: Practice Manager Lauren Partridge, Bella, Medical Assistant Jesyka Velez and Dr. Barbara Pacholec.

A New Year and a Better You with Pacholec Center for Weight Loss (and More)

By Tina Stewart Brakebill We all want to be healthier, more confident versions of ourselves, and the new year is a great time to start that journey. But it’s not enough to simply say you’re going to change. You need a plan! Obstacles on the road to a healthy living surround us. To further complicate things, there is no single solution that works for everyone. Every person’s journey to wellness is unique, and what works for one may not be the answer for another. Real substantive solutions come from an integrative approach to health and well-being. And sometimes we need help! Pacholec Center for Weight Loss can be that help.

Why Pacholec Center for Weight Loss?

Asking for help means deciding to trust in someone or something.

You can trust the Pacholec Center for Weight Loss to do what’s right for YOU. Enter expert Dr. Barbara Pacholec. After graduating from Rutgers Medical School in New Jersey, she chose to specialize in the complex issues surrounding obesity, including the hormonal imbalances and metabolic disorders often associated with issues of weight. She is now a board-certified Fellow by the American Academy of Anti-Aging and Regenerative Medicine with almost thirty years of experience in bariatric medicine. She has the expertise to determine the root cause of your issues with weight, your lack of energy or your out-of-control appetite and the experience to provide solutions.

How Can Dr. Pacholec Help You?

Dr. Pacholec can help you find the balance of diet, exercise, and pharmaceutical therapies that works most effectively for you. This

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individual holistic approach begins with your first visit. Dr. Pacholec understands that it’s not only a bad diet or lack of exercise that affects your weight and general well-being. For example, vitamin, nutrient, or hormone deficiencies can contribute to weight gain, binge eating and certain food cravings, too. So Dr. Pacholec will review your blood work on top of your medical history, lifestyle and diet. Once she understands the underlying issues, she can recommend a plan tailored specifically to YOU. This individualized plan may involve a special diet, exercise, vitamin and mineral supplements, or an FDA-approved weight loss medication. With her help, you can achieve a body in balance.

Dr. Pacholec can help you find the balance of diet, exercise, and pharmaceutical therapies that works most effectively for you.

Photos by Kelly Nash Photography

Additionally, because hormonal imbalance can affect your weight and general well-being, she may also add testosterone therapy for men or bio-identical hormone therapy for women. Monthly visits will help you keep on-track towards your goals, so you can feel and look your best!

There’s an App for That!

Regular visits with Dr. Pacholec help provide structure, but if you’re like me, a hands-on daily reminder can be an indispensable aid in sticking to the plan. Pacholec Center for Weight Loss understands this, so they introduced the Pacholec MD fitness and health app for your Apple or Android devices! This free app helps you track your weight, exercise, and nutrition goals while you’re out of the doctor’s office. It can help with meal planning and counts your calories, too! And unlike some fitness apps, there’s no guessing. Nutrition information is provided by a certified third-party licensed nutritionist. But that’s not all it can do. Sync it to your existing wristband monitor (or purchase a band from Dr. Pacholec) to track exercise, heart rate, and calorie burn. Plus, if you have a bioimpedance scale (also available from Dr. Pacholec) you can measure and track body fat percentage, lean mass, and your overall BMI. Combine all this with Dr. Pacholec’s expertise and guidance and you’ll be on your way to a healthier you!

Happy Anniversary!

Dr. Pacholec spent the past twenty years helping patients at her practice across the bridge, but in January 2017 she opened a second location at 1621 22nd Ave N. in St. Pete! In honor of her first year anniversary in St. Pete, and as a thank you to the city for its warm welcome, Pacholec Center for Weight Loss is offering some great deals!

First, mention that you read about Dr. Pacholec in Green Bench Monthly and you’ll get $50.00 off your first visit. Second, to help you make the most of their great new app, they’re offering Green Bench Monthly readers a special bundle price on trackers and scales. Buy both a wristband tracker and a bioimpedance scale for only $125.00! Separately, the wristband tracker is $70 and the scale, $100. Happy Anniversary!

New Year. Better You.

What are you waiting for? A better you is waiting! Contact Pacholec Center for Weight Loss at 727-502-2000 or visit them online at www.drpacholec.com for more information.

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From left to right: Blake Poirier, Sam Gordon, Samantha Feuer, Helen Wade, Nancy Joerss, Phil Poirier Photos by Kelly Nash Photography

Helen Wade Insurance Agency

Family Owned and Operated, Local Knowledge

By Cindy Garza Ontkos Getting to know the ins and outs of your community is exciting. Especially in St. Petersburg, a small city with big city vibes!

Opportunities to meet new people and learn about the places you pass everyday are always right there, waiting for you to discover.

Family Owned and Operated

Take for instance, Helen Wade, owner and agent of Helen Wade Insurance Agency. This St. Pete native grew up surrounded

by sunshine and water and regularly enjoys it with her family. As a young adult, Helen began working in her family business and assumed ownership of her step-father’s insurance agency in 1999.

Since then, a lot has changed. “I am proud to see how the city of Saint Petersburg has grown,” she says. “The downtown area, Central Avenue and the SkyWay Marina district are flourishing with positive new energy. The support of the local businesses is impressive.”

Local Knowledge

When it comes to insurance, I want someone aware of the unique experience of living in a coastal city. Helen’s insight into the insurance needs in this area is unmatched. She operates an independent agency that offers personal, life and commercial coverages as well as experience-based expertise in home, flood, auto, boat, life, property and business insurance. Helen Wade Insurance Agency is like a one-stop-shop for everything insurance!

This comes in very handy in the unfortunate circumstance of a natural disaster. Take flood insurance for example. Living in Florida, many of us have lived through and know first-hand the destruction a hurricane can cause. Your home, your car, your boat… all are vulnerable. Because Helen knows this community -from its high-risk zones to the no-risk, as well as what coverage is required in all of them -- she is equipped to handle these challenges.

Helen understands how to work with the National Flood Insurance

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You can rest assured that Helen and her staff will make absolutely sure that you are well covered in your time of need.

Helen Wade Insurance Agency is located at 3209 30th Ave South.

Program and private flood carriers.

In the event of a disaster, I only have to make one phone call to my neighborhood agent, and that puts my mind at ease. You can rest assured that Helen and her staff will make absolutely sure that you are well covered in your time of need. That’s right, one phone call will cover it all.

Important Tips

In my conversation with Helen, I asked her if there are things we should do to ensure we have the necessary coverage. “One big thing I encourage everyone to do, is to review their policies every couple of years. Look at your rates and deductibles in order to be sure the values are current and up to date.” Helen also suggested informing your agent of any upgrades or improvements you might have done to your home. You will want to be sure the contents of your home are proportional to your coverage. Some changes might even provide a discount, e.g., home security equipment.

“Don’t forget about life insurance,” she adds. “It’s always a good idea to have a second pairs of eyes look over your policy and ensure you have the appropriate coverage.” Cost is important to everyone, so review regularly.

It’s easy to reach Helen’s agency for an estimate or to help review your current policies. Even if you don’t live directly in St. Pete, the agency is available to get you covered remotely. If you want a friendly insurance agent who comes with generations of knowledge, Helen Wade is your answer! Call, email or visit her website to learn more and become part of her list of long-term, happy clients.

Helen Wade Insurance Agency is located at 3209 30th Ave South in St. Petersburg and can be reached by phone at 727-8666311, by email at Helenwade@allstate.com or on the web at www. allstate.com/helenwade.

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Localtopia in Williams Park.

Photo by VSPC

Over 600 local businesses are proud members of KSPL. Photo by Pergamo Paper Goods

Keeping St. Petersburg LOCAL: Now More Than Ever!

By Tina Stewart Brakebill Look down any block in Downtown St. Pete and you’ll see change.

New structures rising. Old buildings coming down. New businesses opening. Established names growing, closing or shifting locations.

DTSP’s transformation in the last decade has been exhilarating to watch. But if you listen, you’ll also hear concerned voices. Change itself is not inherently bad, but if DTSP loses that independent funky LOCAL quality, how are we different than any other boom city or suburban mall? It’s not too late to keep St. Pete special, and with YOUR help, Keep Saint Petersburg Local (KSPL) aims to do just that!

Who is Keep Saint Petersburg Local?

In late 2011, a group of local, independent business owners and concerned citizens came together with a simple goal: to form an organization centered on recognizing and appreciating the unique character of Saint Petersburg. KSPL was the result, and their mission statement is simple: “Keep Saint Petersburg Local is a non-profit organization, affiliated with the American Independent Business Alliance, working to build a thriving local economy and a unique community.” They accomplish this by “nurturing connections for and acting as the voice of locally-owned, independent businesses and by raising awareness of the importance of buying local.” KSPL has been that voice since 2011, but as change accelerates in DTSP, they need our help more than ever.

Why Now More Than Ever?

As KSPL Executive Director Olga Bof points out, 2019 may mark a definitive turning point for DTSP as a spate of new developments with ground floor retail spaces open for business. Independent local businesses may have a tough time affording the rents in these brandnew spaces, increasing the possible influx of national franchises and chains. In addition, the upper floors of these new developments will be home to newcomers and Snowbirds unfamiliar with the local scene, making them susceptible to the draw of the familiar. But the allure

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of that boring sameness can be conquered! From restaurants to retail, DTSP offers local choices offering delicious and interesting alternatives. But they need our help to stay alive as the transformation continues.

Recommend and praise your favorite local spots and lead by example. Don’t just say “buy local.” Do it!

Localtopia 2017 on 3rd Street.

Photo by bhernandez2629

Burg Born. Burg Grown.

Find those businesses that are “Burg Born or Burg Grown” and spend your money with them. Share your local knowledge with your new neighbors. Remind them that choosing independent and local isn’t complicated. It doesn’t translate into buying only from small businesses, contending with limited choice or only shopping on Central Avenue. The KSPL alliance boasts over 600-member businesses including restaurants, hotels, shops, spas, bars, coffee shops, business associations, media groups, and galleries. Their commonality? All 600+ either started or have their headquarters here. That’s over 600 businesses that put the money you spend with them back into St. Pete! That’s over 600 businesses that help keep the local vibe, property values, and our economy stable and alive.

They’re all run by those who are also our friends and neighbors. It really is a win-win. Buying local is an easy way to help Keep Saint Petersburg Local!

Localtopia: Think Local First

As a way to showcase some local variety and celebrate what makes St. Pete special, KSPL is proud to bring back LOCALTOPIA! On Saturday, February 2, over 200 local, independent businesses

Show your support by sporting a KSPL t-shirt.

Photo by St. Pete Threads

and community organizations will gather in and around Williams Park for a free-admission family-friendly party. Localtopia features makers, merchants, music, eats, drinks, and activities galore. So come celebrate what makes St. Pete awesome. Eat some great food.

Drink a craft beer or locally roasted coffee. Dance with your kids.

Maybe make a donation and go home with a new commitment to THINK LOCAL FIRST!

How can I find out what’s LOCAL?

If you need help locating an independent local business then check out KSPL’s Member Directory. It’s organized by category and easy to navigate. Check out their website to find out other ways to support KSPL and their mission to keep St. Pete local, including becoming a member or enjoying a locally sponsored event. www.keepsaintpetersburglocal.org

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People of St. Pete: Colleen McGrath Lilley

By Tina Stewart Brakebill St. Pete is celebrated for its fabulous weather, beautiful vistas, world-class food scene, and thriving cultural atmosphere—but the people of St. Pete truly make this city something special. In appreciation, each month Green Bench Monthly shines a light on one of the many people that makes St. Pete unique.

Colleen McGrath Lilley is on center stage this month. As a former professional opera singer, she is accustomed to the spotlight, but it wasn’t her New York City theater career that caught our attention. Instead, it’s her work as director of St. Petersburg’s Music & Me that makes her one of the community’s shining stars.

All the World’s a Stage

Lilley has always loved music. Her family supported and encouraged her passion as she made her way from childhood piano and voice lessons to undergraduate work at Carnegie Mellon and a graduate degree from the Boston Conservatory. Afterward, she headed to New York City, where she worked steadily as a professional opera singer for nearly a decade. In 2008, theater companies were hit hard by the Great Recession, and she decided it was time to rethink her future. How could she leave the stage and not her love for music?

From the Stage to the Classroom

The answer was to keep the music at center stage by channeling her passion into teaching. She chose to train with the highly regarded Music Together® early-childhood development program, which is committed to the importance of making music “in a meaningful way.” After certification, she taught for a year in Berlin before returning to the United States. Wanting to continue her work, she investigated recommended sites for opening a new school. In 2010, she relocated to St. Petersburg and opened Music & Me.

I’ve Got the Music in Me …

And So Do YOU!

Lilley has always believed that “all people are born musical.” Not everyone has the same abilities, but we all can achieve “music.” And

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Photo by Kelly Nash Photography

science proves that making music (especially in those all-important pre-K formative years) has numerous positive effects by contributing to cognitive, social, and motor skills development. Children learn differently than adults. They “learn instinctively and constantly” and “through imitation and play” with each other and with adults and older children. As the director of and teacher for Music & Me, Lilley endeavors to support both the science and the fun of learning by creating a “merry and meaningful play-based music program for young children and their grownups.” Happily, St. Petersburg has embraced both her and her mission to bring music to children and their families.

Building Community

Lilley and her husband, Ted, met as performers at a concert to benefit Community Action Stops Abuse (CASA). Now, the couple and their 4-year-old daughter, Marlo, also are part of the Music & Me community as students. Lilley is energetic about building community through music. To thank St. Petersburg for supporting the endeavor, every month (from October through May), Music & Me offers a free community program designed to unite people through music. You can Sing & Stroll with your family at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve or Sip & Sing at Cage Brewery.

For details see musicandmellc.com/workshops-events.html

Inject some “Hygge” into your winter!

By Erin Cody With the holiday season and its stressors behind us, and a couple of chilly months ahead, it’s the perfect time to familiarize ourselves with the increasingly popular concept of “hygge.”

According to hyggehouse.com, “Hygge (pronounced hue-guh not hoo-gah) is a Danish word used when acknowledging a feeling or moment, whether alone or with friends, at home or out, ordinary or extraordinary as cosy, charming or special.” The Danes always top the list in happiness indexes despite their brutal winters, so they must be doing something right!

Hygge isn’t about spending money or working to achieve a goal, but simply enjoying the present moment and creating a cozy contentment all your own. Your hygge may be lighting your favorite candle, wrapping up in a soft blanket, and reading a mystery novel. Or it’s your ritual of taking a few minutes in the morning to grind those amazing coffee beans you bought at the market, and making yourself a hot cup of joe to sip. Maybe it’s lounging in your bathrobe on a chilly Sunday morning, especially if it’s still toasty from the dryer, and enjoying the slow pace of a classic film -- that’s mighty “hyggeligt.”

There are many, many ways to infuse hygge into your life, whether with friends, family or loved ones. It’s a beautiful way to bring calm and comfort into your days during this lovely Florida winter. Winter is the ideal time to perfect your warming recipes, be it a perfect carrot bisque, a classic cassoulet, or a rich, velvety hot chocolate. I like to make a big, hearty soup or stew once or twice a week, then keep leftovers in the fridge for a quick, satisfying meal.

Why not make a pot of chili, mulled wine or spiced cider, and invite

friends over for board games -- maybe on a Monday night to start the week with a smile? Plan ongoing group activities you can look forward to. Board games are certainly regaining popularity, but movie nights, potlucks, crafting parties, or book clubs are just as good! Blanket forts are optional, too, but highly recommended!

Small, inexpensive changes around your house can really make any season ring. While many decorate for the holidays, it’s not the only time we can do so! For winter, swap in a few chunky knit or even wool covers for your throw pillows, toss a cozy blanket on your sofa for chilly nights, or find some candles you really love. Candlemakers Petals & Glow makes the most wonderful soy candles nearby in Plant City. Find ‘em on Etsy or at a local market.

Have an at-home spa day, alone or with company. Take a bath with bubbles or epsom salts and your favorite essential oil (candlelit, of course!), give yourself a pedi, a revitalizing face mask, or whatever you enjoy. Treat yourself to special experiences, as well. Take a stroll around a shop to see what draws you in, or hop on Pinterest and explore the plethora of concoctions to make yourself !

Make sure you get outside to soak up some sunshine while Florida’s brutal heat is on hiatus. Take a walk through Boyd Hill Nature Preserve with a friend or two and observe the wildlife you might otherwise have overlooked, or go alone for a quieter stroll with some classical music in your earphones.

Small things can make a big difference, especially if you are suffering from the post-holiday blues. Hygge is here to pick you up and wrap you in the coziest of hugs. Invite it into your life and reap the benefits!

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Proudly Supports

Johnilaw supports programs that provide services to our veterans. The Catch A Lift Fund provides post 9/11 wounded veterans with fitness memberships, in home gym equipment, personalized nutrition programs and a peer support network to help them recover, rehabilitate and reintegrate through fitness. Founded in memory of Army Cpl. Chris Coffland, the Catch A Lift Fund has served over 3,500 veterans across the U.S. and is helping them with dramatic weight loss, improved sleep, dropped medications and reintegration into society. CAL has reached critical need for funding with over 600 wounded veterans on the wait list.

Learn how you can help at CATCHALIFTFUND.ORG

(727) 520-7376 | johnilaw.com 2600 Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. St. N. #300 St. Petersburg, Florida 33704 Hiring a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based upon advertisements alone. Before deciding, ask to receive free written information about our qualifications and experience.

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Downtown Developments

By Brian Zucker, Owner of St. Pete Rising

It seems like each time we take a stroll through downtown there are new restaurants and galleries opening and more apartment complexes and condo towers being built. We realize it’s difficult to keep track of everything. Luckily, we’ve done the research, so you don’t have to.

Each month we will feature a few of the most exciting new downtown developments that are on the horizon for the Sunshine City.

Plant+Love Ice Cream will open this month at 953 Central Avenue in the EDGE District. The new vegan creamery will offer ten flavors daily, such as Queen Vanilla Bean, Divine Chocolate, Orange Dream made with real Florida oranges, Mystic Mint Fudge Brownie, Salted Caramel Praline Pecan, and Chocolate Chip Cookie Crumble. Sugar-free ice cream and scoops infused with CBD will also be available. In addition to vegan ice cream, Plant+Love also has a passion for the environment, wellness and the community. The name doesn’t just represent a love of plants and veganism, but is also about planting seeds of love by striving to make a difference in the world and inspiring others to be themselves in the best way possible.

The ArtsXchange, a collection of 28 sustainable, affordable art studios, has announced plans to begin construction in 2019 on the second phase of their artist community. Located in the Warehouse Arts District at 515 22nd Street South, the ArtsXchange Phase II will bring to life a brand new beautifully developed courtyard entrance with outdoor seating and pop-up store fronts. Additionally, three classrooms and an 1,800 square-foot professional dance studio with springboard floors, ballet barres and mirrors will be built.

A 21-story residential tower has been proposed for the southeast corner of 3rd Avenue North and 5th Street North. While not on Central Avenue, this development is situated just a few blocks from the buzz of downtown and the serenity of Mirror Lake.

According to site plan documents, the proposed building will be 250 feet in height with 270 residential units, nearly 11,000 square feet of office space, and a parking garage with 295 parking spaces and

288 bicycle spaces. The project was approved by the Development Review Commission on December 5th.

Renzo’s, an Argentinian churrascaria, opened last month at 104 2nd Street South on the ground floor of Signature Place in Downtown St. Pete. The space was formerly home to Z-Grille, but has sat vacant since Z Grille’s closure in July 2017. Renzo’s specializes in Argentinian-style cuts of meat, such as Argentine Flank, Churrasco de Entraña, and Brazilian Picanha. All meats are served with a side of chimichurri, an Argentinian sauce made of finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, olive oil, oregano, and red wine vinegar. Renzo’s also offers pasta, salads, and sandwiches. They also have an extensive dessert menu, so make sure to save room!

Bacchus, a local gourmet market, opened at the beginning of January at 124 2nd Avenue NE on the ground floor of Ovation. The market is helmed by Christophe Guillot and Philippe Challeau, who have given Bacchus more of a french influence, but will also feature other European products. All items on the dine-in menu are also available to purchase in the retail section of the market. Bacchus carries a wide selection of wine, beer, sodas, fresh bread, charcuterie, soups, salads, sandwiches and cheese boards. You can also find gourmet items like pate, foie gras, fruit preserves, condiments, candies and more.

St. Pete Rising is an urban development blog covering future retail, restaurants, and real estate in Downtown St. Petersburg, FL. Stay up-to-date, visit StPeteRising.com.

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Boyd Hill Nature Preserve. Photo by City of St. Petersburg.

Events Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County 2019 MLK Day of Service

When: Monday, Jan 21st from 7am - 12:30pm Where: 2200-2600 Block of 10th Street South Cost: $19.64 In July of 1964, due in large part to the efforts of Martin Luther King Jr., the Civil Rights Act of 1964 was passed to prohibit racial discrimination.

Each year on this day, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County honors Mr. King and his legacy with a day of service. Join us as we come together to paint and beautify 5 St. Petersburg homes!

For a donation of $19.64, you will receive an event t-shirt, lunch and an exciting day with others giving back to your community.

Registration: 7 - 8am. Lunch and wrap up: 12:30pm.

To register, please contact Jack Shanks at jshanks@habitatpinellas.org

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The St. Petersburg Lawn Bowling Club

When: Every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 9am to Noon through April Where: St. Petersburg LBC, 536 4th Ave S Cost: Free 1st and 2nd visit The St. Petersburg Lawn Bowling Club is the oldest formally organized lawn bowling club in Florida and tenth in the nation. Lawn Bowling is easy to learn, very low cost, and provides gentle, healthy exercise and pleasant social company for people of all ages.

For more information, visit stpetersburglawnbowling.org.

Tampa Bay Home Show

When: Friday, Jan 25th and Saturday Jan 26th from 10am 6pm and Sunday, Jan 27th from 10am - 5pm Early Bird Trail Run Where: Tropicana Field, at Boyd Hill Nature One Tropicana Dr Preserve Cost: Free admission and parking When: Every Saturday 7am - 8am The latest home products Where: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, and services from more than 1101 Country Club Way S 600 exhibits under one roof.

Cost: $5 admission for adults Discover the newest design ideas Suited for individuals that run and hottest trends for your home, roads and/or trails with a prompt furniture, garden, and more.

7 am start on a 4 – 5 mile course. Show up early for daily giveaways For more information, visit www. and register to win a variety of stpeteparksrec.org/boyd-hillpromotions. For more info, visit programs.html. events.stpete.org/events/6018.

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Ikebana in the Gardens

When: Saturday, Feb 2nd from 10am - 4:30pm and Sunday, Feb 3rd from noon - 4:30pm Where: Sunken Gardens, 1825 Fourth St N Cost: $4-$10; free for members Ikebana is the Japanese art of flower arrangement. Wander the garden paths and gaze upon unique ikebana designs, as Ikebana International members of the St. Petersburg Chapter install large scale living botanical arrangements in the garden landscape. For more info, visit www.stpete.org/attractions/ sunken_gardens/index.php.

6TH ANNUAL

Don't miss

St. Pete’s largest “Community Celebration of All Things Local” showcasing over 200 of your favorite independent businesses and community organizations!

A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS LOCAL

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 2, 2019 | 10 AM TO 5 PM RAIN DATE: FEBRUARY 23, 2019

Festival Features:

PRESENTED BY:

• MAKERS & MERCHANTS: Art & Handcrafted Goods, Artisanal Food & Beverages, Body/Self-Care, Books, Clothing & Accessories, Home Decor, Jewelry, Pet, Plants & Plant-Based Products, Vintage, Vinyl & Much More!

• VILLAGES: Arts Village | Family Village | * EXPANDED * Health & Wellness Village featuring * NEW * Healthy St. Pete Stage with Demos + Outdoor Spin Rides | * NEW * Plantopia Village • EAT, DRINK & PLAY LOCAL: 4th Street: Food Truck Rally Alley | 2nd Avenue: Restaurant Row + Local Breweries Pouring Their Own Brews + * NEW * Park & Rec Game Experience

SPONSORED BY:

MEDIA PARTNERS:

• 3RD STREET: Boutiques | Vendors on Wheels | DJ | Literary Corner | Skate | Street Fun • LIVE LOCAL MUSIC on the Williams Park Bandstand • ENGAGING ACTIVITIES for All Ages, Free Demos & Crafts, “Biggest Local Raff le,” Live Screen Printing, Photo Booth and More Surprises!

KeepSaintPetersburgLocal.org/Localtopia

$5 Suggested (Minimum) Donation at Entrances

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Green Bench Monthly P.O. Box 76095 St. Petersburg, FL 33734

PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID ST PETE FL PERMIT NO. 4