VOL. 9, ISSUE 2, FEBRUARY 2024
Green Bench Monthly
St. Pete’s Community Magazine
PEOPLE OF ST. PETE
Olga Bof p.8 Long Gone, but Not Forgotten
The Gas Plant District p.6
Ignite Your Most Intentional Life
Passion Struck p.14
Record Attendance
St. Petersburg Opera p.18
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11TH ANNUAL
A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION OF ALL THINGS LOCAL Don't miss
300+ Vendors ALL St. Pete-based!
St. Pete’s largest “Community Celebration of All Things Local” showcasing over 300 of your favorite independent businesses and community organizations!
More than a festival, It’s a (local) vibe!
SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2024 | 10 AM TO 5 PM RAIN DATE: MARCH 2, 2024
• MAKERS & MERCHANTS: Art & Handcrafted Goods,
• EAT, DRINK & PLAY LOCAL on the Streets of St. Pete:
• VILLAGES: Arts Village | Family Village | Health &
• LIVE LOCAL MUSIC on the Williams Park Bandstand
• 3RD STREET (from 1st to 3rd Avenues):
• STREET PERFORMANCES + ENGAGING ACTIVITIES
Artisanal Food & Beverages, Body/Self-Care, Books, Clothing & Accessories, Home Decor, Jewelry, Pet, Plants & Plant-Based Products, Vintage, Vinyl & Much More!
Wellness Village | #AllThingsPlants Village
Boutiques | Vendors on Wheels | More Artists & Artisans DJs | Literary Corner | Skate & Street Fun
4TH STREET: Food Truck Rally Alley | 2ND AVENUE (from 2nd to 4th Streets): More Food Trucks + Restaurants + Food & Drink Vendors | "Local Thirst Stations" Selling Canned Local Beer & Wine | Draft Beer Trucks + Local Breweries Pouring Their Own Brews
For All Ages, Free Demos & Crafts, Live Screen Printing, and More Surprises!
KeepSaintPetersburgLocal.org/Localtopia Localtopia Made Possible By: PRESENTING SPONSOR:
CO-SPONSORED BY:
PLATINUM SPONSORS:
SPONSORS:
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Kids play outside Davis Elementary (later Davis Academy), the first school for African-American students in St. Pete. Learn more about the history of this school and the Gas Plant District .
Publishers
Ashley & Tony Sica
Editor
Mary Jane Park
Contributors Suzanne Driscoll Emily Harris Monica Kile Candy Porter Lynn Waddell Brian Zucker
Photographers Kristina Holman Ryan Kern Keith Kenney Chris Ryan
Cover Photo
Keep Saint Petersburg Local founder, Olga Bof photo by Keith Kenney
Contact
PO BOX 76095 St. Petersburg, FL 33734 (727) 280-5406 hello@greenbenchmonthly.com
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Family-0wned and operated, with easy access to the Gulf. Check out Pass-A-Grille Marina.
Read all about the latest at St. Petersburg Opera and catch up with Maestro Mark Sforzini -pictured with his dog Rhubarb (Boxador)
IN THIS ISSUE 5
From the Bench
6
History: The Gas Plant District Is Long Gone, but Not Forgotten
8
People of St. Pete: Olga Bof
14 Passion Struck: Ignite Your Most Intentional Life with John R. Miles 18 St. Petersburg Opera Company: A Variety of Performances Brings Record Attendance
10 Pass-A-Grille Marina: Great Service and Location Attracts Boaters Everywhere
20 Downtown Developments: new in the EDGE District, Sundial & More
12 Italy Bottega: Owner Federico Fanelli Bids a Fond Farewell
22 Events: St. Pete Science Festival, Localtopia, Parents' Night Out, & more!
GREENBENCHMONTHLY.COM / FEBRUARY 2024
Sunken Gardens Flamingo. Photo by City of St. Petersburg
From the Bench A note from the Publishers
Happy Black History Month, St. Pete! We are honoring the many who helped shape this city by remembering the Gas Plant District p. 6 It's almost time for Localtopia—our favorite celebration of all things local on Feb. 24 at Williams Park! It's hard to believe just how much the event has grown over the years. With 300+ vendors, this year will be no exception. Our advice: walk, bike, or take the trolley and get there early. Meet the woman who makes it all happen, Olga Bof p. 8 Also in this issue: Set sail from Pass-AGrille Marina p. 10. A word from the owner of Italy Bottega p. 12. Ignite your passion with local podcaster and author John R. Miles p. 14, catch up with the Maestro p. 18, and see what's coming soon to downtown p. 20. Tony and Ashley Sica Publishers / Owners
Till next time, Ashley & Tony
This issue is brought to you by advertisers and reader support. If you enjoy our stories and want to support independent media, visit greenbenchmonthly.com/support. For advertising info, hello@ greenbenchmonthly.com.
All are welcome on this bench.
The history of the green benches is layered. For some, it is a reminder of a painful period of racism and segregation. To others, it is a symbol of welcomeness and hospitality. We carry this name to shine a light on our city’s history and in celebration of those who work tirelessly towards a more inclusive St. Pete. To read more about our story and the history of the green benches visit greenbenchmonthly.com/about.
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The Masonic Lodge 109, which housed the James Weldon Johnson Library starting in 1947, can be seen in the background of this photo of the Gas Plant neighborhood taken sometime in the 1960s or 1970s. The Lodge is the two story white building with three sets of windows on the upper floor, on the far right side of the photo. The large white building in the foreground is Bethel Metropolitan Baptist Church (not to be confused with Bethel AME in Methodist Town.)
The Gas Plant District is Long Gone, but Not Forgotten By Monica Kile, Historian and Tour Guide with I Love the Burg Tours As discussions progress on the future of the Historic Gas Plant district and Tropicana Field, it is worthwhile to reflect on some of the important institutions that were displaced when the historically African American neighborhood was demolished in the late 1970s and early 1980s.
The Gas Plant Neighborhood
The neighborhood that grew into the Gas Plant area developed as dozens of the African American laborers who built the Orange Belt Railroad in 1888 settled near the train’s original terminus, around the juncture of today’s Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Street and First Avenue S. A neighborhood originally called Peppertown developed, followed closely by Cooper’s Quarters and other small enclaves like Little Egypt and Forty Quarters. The area eventually came to be known collectively as the Gas Plant neighborhood, named after two large city-owned gas storage cylinders in the area. Because many of the city’s first residents were the African-American laborers who built the railroad, many of our earliest institutions served the Black community. Those workers were some of the first people to reside at the Detroit Hotel, for example, when they were extending the rail line to Tampa Bay. Likewise, the congregation of the striking Bethel AME Church at 912 Third Ave. N, in historic Methodist Town, is one of the oldest in St. Petersburg, building their first church at that site in 1894. (The current building was constructed in 1922.)
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The City’s First Masonic Lodge
Another of the city’s longest-running institutions is Masonic Lodge No. 109, founded on January 11, 1893, under jurisdiction of the Florida Grand Lodge, Prince Hall Affiliation. (Prince Hall Freemasonry is the oldest and largest predominantly African-American fraternity in the United States.) Lodge 109 held its first regular meeting at Eighth Street S and Charles Court, in Peppertown. The city’s first white Masonic organization, Lodge 139, was formed the following year. Lodge 109 built a temple at 1035 Third Ave. S, in the Gas Plant neighborhood, in the late 1920s or 1930s. The large two-story building served as an important community venue and meeting space used by many other clubs and organizations, like the Colored Veterans of the World War and the Women’s Auxiliary of the American Legion.
The First Library for African Americans
The Masonic Temple was also home to the city’s Negro library, beginning in 1947. This was the second location of the city library for African Americans. In 1928, the Business and Professional Women’s Club (an organization for white women) took up the cause of founding a library for the Black community after St. Petersburg’s Library Board stated that a branch library for African American residents wasn’t feasible “at this time.” A 350-book library was opened in a recently established recreation area for
Bethel AME Church at 912 Third Ave. N. Photo by City of St. Petersburg
Black residents on land owned by T.C. Campbell between Sixth and Seventh Avenues S and 14th and 16th streets. (Later, the city purchased this land and officially designated it as Campbell Park.) The library, staffed by Ms. Thelma Williams, a recent graduate of what the newspaper referred to as the “Colored College of Tallahassee” (presumably referring to Florida A&M), was a great success. By the next year the City of St. Petersburg took over its management, “satisfied that it was filling a need among the Negro populace.” Williams managed the library for more than 12 years before moving out of Florida, and the library closed in 1943 due to staffing issues and public debate over the use of Campbell Park by Black residents. In April 1947, a committee made up of influential African American women in the city celebrated the opening of the newly named James Weldon Johnson library in a 1,000 square-foot space that the city rented from the Masonic Temple for $25 a month. The library, named after a poet and writer from Jacksonville, was especially popular with schoolchildren like Wilbur Williams Jr. By August of that year, he had read 126 books from the library, as the “Negro News” section of the St. Petersburg Times highlighted. Wilbur was 10 years old, and a student at all-black Davis Elementary School, just a stone’s throw from the Masonic Temple. (Davis Elementary was on the site of today’s Wayland apartment building at 10 Street S and Third Avenue.)
Replacing the Irreplaceable
In 1979, the Johnson library moved to the Enoch Davis Center as it became clear that the Gas Plant neighborhood would be razed as an “urban renewal” project. Members of the Masonic Lodge held on longer, demanding that the city give them the replacement value of their building rather than the “fair market” value that the city offered, a difference of close to $200,000. City officials said they couldn’t offer more, despite the fact that neighborhood churches were being given replacement value for their buildings. “We really just can’t get ourselves into the situation of offering everyone the replacement value of their property,” the city’s director of urban redevelopment said. He went on to say that churches were given more money because it was harder for them to find suitable buildings, and they served a wider cross-section of the population, but the Masons of Lodge 109, on the other hand, were “really not a very large group.” Masonic Lodge members countered that they had been renting space to the city for years for the James Weldon Johnson Library, at below-market rates, a consideration in the valuation of the building. The case went to court, with the Masons eventually being awarded the replacement value of $224,000. The lodge ultimately moved to 18th Avenue S. Today there are no vestiges of the large white Masonic Temple at 1035 Third Ave. S that was once home to the first Masonic lodge in the city, and the second location of the city library for African Americans. Visitors to Tropicana Field can only imagine it as they walk past its location when approaching the stadium from the east along the pedestrian walkway through Parking Lots 6 and 7.
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Photo by Keith Kenney
People of St. Pete: Olga Bof By Lynn Waddell
St. Pete is celebrated for its fabulous weather, beautiful vistas, worldclass food scene, and thriving cultural atmosphere but the people of St. Pete truly make this city something special. In appreciation, each month Green Bench shines a light on one of the many people that make St. Pete unique. As the founder of Keep St. Pete Local, Olga Bof may be the most ardent champion of businesses started and operated in St. Petersburg. On Feb. 24, her nonprofit’s signature event, Localtopia, returns to downtown with a community celebration of all things St. Pete. Hosted annually in Williams Park, Localtopia is a showcase for St. Pete businesses, makers, nonprofits and organizations that is peppered with live music, food trucks, and local brews. This year KSPL added the slogan: “It’s more than a festival. It’s a local vibe.” Started in 2012, the event has become so successful that its footprint has expanded into the surrounding streets. Area businesses clamor for a spot. KSPL and Localtopia showcase only businesses founded and operated within the St. Petersburg city limits. Chains and independent businesses of Clearwater, Tampa and other area towns need not apply.
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Magic City Born
You might think that someone so passionate about buying from locally formed and owned businesses would also be born here herself. Bof ’s path to St. Petersburg was circuitous, and her passport is well stamped. She was born in Miami two months after her parents arrived on a “Freedom Flight” from Cuba. They were refugees at a time when Miami was still culturally a white Southern city. “We experienced a lot of racism,” she said. “It was a lot different then.” Her family’s business was connected to Cuba, and their home in Little Havana was filled with voices speaking Spanish. She didn’t learn English until after she started school.
Life in Europe
As a young adult, Bof wore many hats for the BBC World Service when the British network opened its first overseas production base in Miami. She managed the office, helped with radio production, and filled in where needed. She eventually moved to London. In Europe, she worked for the BBC, Expedia, and, eventually, Channel 4 Television in Paris. “It was an incredible job. You’d run into (chefs) Gordan Ramsay and Jamie Oliver at the café in the lobby,“ she said. Through her work, she met Alberto Granado, who traveled around South America with Che Guevara. “I’ve been blessed to have had so many incredible experiences in my life – the places I’ve lived, the places I’ve traveled to, the people I’ve met.” While working in Paris, she also met her husband.
Olga Bof on stage with Mayor Ken Welch at last year’s Localtopia.
Florida Bound
When they met, Olga already knew that she wanted to move back to Florida, but didn’t want to go back to Miami. She had family in Tampa and fond memories of a sleepy Florida coastal town called St. Petersburg. She and her husband came to St. Pete in early 2008 at the height of the Great Recession with no job or housing. She got pregnant with her son about two months later. “St Pete was such a different place. Our first Saturday night out we were a couple of blocks from Beach Drive in front of what’s now the Sundial and there was not one person on the street.” Still, she believed in St. Pete and suspected others soon would, too. Over the next few years, she got a paying job at the nonprofit Suncoast Center, wrote about local businesses for “I Love the Burg,” and planned to open a children’s book and eco-toy store.
Keeping St. Pete St. Pete
As she prepared her bookstore business plan, she discovered that independent bookstores were driving buy-local movements. She wanted to help preserve St. Pete’s quirky local vibe and reached out to the American Independent Business Alliance (AIBA). After discussions with like-minded residents, Keep St. Pete Local was born. The AIBA affiliate launched in late November 2011. By 2015, the nonprofit was able to pay Bof a salary, allowing her to quit her Suncoast job and organize multiple KSPL events. Today KSPL has more than 500 members. It has been highlighted in the book This Is Where You Belong by Melody Warnick, in Allegiant Air’s inflight magazine, and in a video with actor/activist Kevin Bacon.
Challenging Times
KSPL’s progress hasn’t been without slumps. In 2016, rain flattened attendance, and the nonprofit almost collapsed. “I couldn’t take a salary for most of that year,” Bof said. “My family really sacrificed a lot to keep it going.” The year 2020 was also difficult. The Covid pandemic hurt local businesses, and Bof had three cancer surgeries. Her medical struggle left her with a vow to travel more and limit KSPL’s events to Localtopia. With restored health and the city booming, Bof is now dealing with the challenges that come with a flurry of new residents and outside businesses. Her KSPL goals for 2024 are educating new residents on the buy-local lifestyle along with organizing another successful Localtopia. “I walk the event every year and try to check in with every vendor,” she said. “I feel that palpable joy and community spirit. You’re not killing it (money-wise) running an independent business alliance. It’s hard, but it feels incredibly worthwhile, and that’s why I continue to do it.”
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Top: Antanas Petraitis (Sales), Daina Glavinskas (General Manager), Ed Vaitiekaitis (Forklift Operator), Bottom: Al Bobelis (Owner), Ryan Miles (Master Technician). Photos by Chris Ryan
Pass-A-Grille Marina: Great Service and Location Attracts Boaters Everywhere By Suzanne Driscoll
The St. Pete area offers a wide selection of great marinas, but if you’re looking for quick access to the Gulf of Mexico without having to go through any channels, be sure to check out the Pass-A-Grille Marina in St. Pete Beach. On Florida’s west coast, Pass-A-Grille marina is the premier Yamaha outboard key dealer and warranty service center featuring Yamaha parts and accessories. It offers a variety of services to boaters, including yearly maintenance and repairs, repower of outboards, high and dry storage, fuel, transient boat slips, bait, and ice.
The Bobelis family has run the marina over the past 20 years. A cycle of family members have worked at the marina throughout that time. Daina Glavinskas, a niece of the family, grew up in the marina and on the docks. After graduating from Florida Gulf Coast University in 2019, she returned home to help manage all daily operations. Now as general manager, Glavinskas seeks to maintain the integrity of the marina to keep the longstanding success of the family business alive. “We’ve had the same head service technician and forklift driver for over 20 years,” she says, “so everyone who comes here can be assured of great service and a great experience as well.”
Top-Notch Services for Boaters Boaters in Florida and throughout the United States appreciate the Pass-A-Grille Marina’s great prices and selection of Yamaha outboard motors, generators, parts, and accessories. The business is an Authorized Yamaha Outboard Motor Warranty Service Center with certified technicians on staff. Ryan Miles, head technician and service manager, has over 20 years of certified experience. “Yamaha parts are readily available straight from the source,” he says. “That means we can turn around any repair job faster to get you back out on the water.” With many loyal customers returning, he goes out of his way to make sure they are satisfied. Customers agree that the repair services are top notch. “I do business with these guys from South Carolina,” client Martin Little says, “because they are that good.”
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Ryan Miles, head technician and service manager, has over 20 years of certified experience. The marina offers numerous large deep-water wet slips with floating docks that have 30-50-100 amp electrical service. Transient boat slips are rented by the day, week, or month. Dock for five days, and you get two days free. There is indoor high and dry boat storage and a secure, fenced lot, currently at capacity. The fuel dock has six pumps with ethanol-free 90-octane unleaded gasoline blend as marine diesel. A ship’s store stocks everything you will need for a fun day of boating. If you are ready to sell your boat, you can list it at the Pass-A-Grille Marina on consignment for a hassle-free sale.
Quick Access to the Gulf
To access the Gulf from Pass-A-Grille Marina, you simply have to cut round one jetty. “You can easily get to Shell Key, Egmont Key, north to Clearwater or south to Fort Myers,” Glavinskas promises. “And the beach and great restaurants are walking distance from the marina.” Inda Screets reports that the Pass-A-Grille Marina “is an excellent location to store your favorite toy. It is clean with reasonable rates, and the staff is top notch as well as being super friendly. If you need to store a boat or need a great marine mechanic, I would definitely check them out.” The Pass-A-Grille Marina is at 1901 Pass-A-Grille Way in St. Pete Beach. For additional information, please visit PassaGrilleMarina.com, call (727) 360-0100 or email passagrillemarina@yahoo.com.
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Federico opened Italy Bottega in 2020 during the pandemic, at 1045 Central Ave in the Edge District.
Federico Fanelli, owner of Italy Bottega Photos by Keith Kenney
Italy Bottega Owner Federico Fanelli Bids a Fond Farewell By Suzanne Driscoll
It is always hard to say good-bye to friends and customers of a thriving business you have nurtured, but Federico Fanelli sadly announces he has been forced to sell his restaurant, Italy Bottega. “I want to take this opportunity to sincerely thank all my customers and did not want to just disappear without any explanation.” Unlike other restaurant owners who did not manage their finances well or failed to pay taxes, Italy Bottega was very successful and had a loyal following. “Eighty to ninety percent of my customers live in the area year-round, and many had an Italian ancestry or have traveled to Italy,” Fanelli reports. “What caused me to close was an incident with a delivery truck.”
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On the morning of August 26, 2023, a truck from one of the largest food delivery companies in Florida hit an overhead power line on Baum Avenue North, which ripped out Italy Bottega’s main electric panel that almost caught on fire. Fanelli filed an insurance claim against them, but their insurance company determined the power line was hanging lower than what is required by Florida law. So a claim was also filed against the electric company. Now both parties are blaming each other, and meanwhile Fanelli had to close for 14 days, and it took another 14 days to ramp up again. “I had all my refrigerated and frozen food that had to be thrown out, a cleaning service had to be hired, and I lost many of my employees since they could not wait that long to reopen with their own bills to pay,” says Fanelli. “I also had to pay for the electric repairs out of my own pocket. I had some savings but this completely destroyed my cash flow. I tried with all my strength to keep things going, but in the end I knew I had to sell.” The Law Firm of Douglas G. Jackson is now handling the case, and Fanelli is very hopeful he will be able to get a positive outcome. The restaurant’s last day was Sunday January 28th, 2024 when a farewell get together took place.
A Farewell to the USA as Well
Fanelli was in the U.S. on a temporary work Visa as “Treaty Investor,” and now that he sold his restaurant he lost his residency and he has to go back to Italy. But he remains hopeful that after all the insurance matters are settled he can return to St. Pete and open an even better restaurant. “I have an 11 foot map of Italy in the dining area, and everyone enjoyed talking about the places they have visited or where their families came from,” Fanelli recalls. “When I came to the United States from Italy in 2016, I settled in Miami and opened a very successful deli. But I decided it was not the city for me and moved to St. Pete and opened Italy Bottega in 2019. I fell in love with the people, the atmosphere and the energy of the area and made many good friends. “I always invited customers to come in for ‘food, wine and soul’ and truly believe that you can experience the heart and soul of a business. I want to say a sincere thank you to my excellent crew that helped me during these past tough months: Chef Daniel Rabice and Lead Server Benjamin Miller. And to all my customers who supported me these past five years, I say ‘thank you and arrivederci,’ till we meet again.”
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Purchase via passionstruck.com to access over $300 in bonuses.
John R. Miles, host of the #1 Alternative Health Podcast and author of Passion Struck. Photo by Keith Kenney
to attract top experts to share their insights. Guests like functional medicine pioneer Dr. Mark Hyman, esteemed behavioral scientist BJ Fogg, holistic psychologist Dr. Nicole LePera, billionaire philanthropist David Rubenstein, marketing guru Seth Godin, and psychologist Angela Duckworth. From astronauts to professional athletes to special operators, the podcast features an array of guests whose stories inspire and motivate. Popular episodes also feature St. Pete locals such as Bill C. Potts, a six-time cancer survivor who offers wisdom on how to beat cancer; New York Times bestselling author Dr. Cyrus Khambatta, who offers tips on how Type 2 diabetes can be reversed; and Michelle Royal, who provides guidance on how to tap into innovative power. Miles also does a weekly solo episode on topics such as managing life’s “mosquitos” – the toxic influences we all encounter. Each episode is a master class in navigating life’s complexities with grace and determination.
Ignite Your Most Intentional Life with Passion Struck Becomes a Book John R. Miles By Suzanne Driscoll
Do you ever feel like a shadow in your own story, yearning for a deeper connection to your authentic self? The Passion Struck podcast with John R. Miles is your catalyst for change. Launched in 2021, it’s not just a podcast; it’s also a movement toward authentic self-discovery and meaningful existence. Miles is more than a host; he advocates for a life lived with deliberate intention and genuine authenticity. His vision? To transform listeners from mere spectators to dynamic architects of their own stories, ensuring they’re not just seen but also vibrantly living a life that reflects their innermost selves. Milles’ journey is nothing short of inspiring. After facing a series of life-altering events – from a traumatic home invasion to personal losses that shook his very core – Miles, a former Navy officer and C-level executive at Dell and Catalina Marketing, realized the necessity for profound change. His experiences, both challenging and transformative, led him to one vital realization: the importance of living intentionally. Today, Passion Struck stands tall as the #1 Alternative Health podcast, with a staggering following of over 8 million listeners and 30,000 five-star ratings. The secret to its success? Miles’ ability
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Extending his mission beyond the airwaves, Miles wrote “Passion Struck: Twelve Powerful Principles to Unlock Your Purpose and Ignite Your Most Intentional Life.” “This book isn’t just for reading,” he says, “it’s a manual for living.” Packed with tasks and QR codes for additional resources, it’s a guide that takes you by the hand and leads you toward a life of fulfillment and purpose. Pre-order it on PassionStruck.com to unlock exclusive bonuses and discover why it’s hailed as a must-read by the Next Big Idea Club for 2024. It is also available on Amazon. “I often hear many self-improvement gurus speak of living life on autopilot,” Miles observes, “but I see it differently. Imagine life as a pinball machine, with distractions and chaos propelling us unintentionally. It’s time we stop being the ball and start being the player. We must master our own journey, skillfully navigating life’s game, instead of merely being tossed around by it.” Miles’ message is clear: Don’t just exist. Live passionately and intentionally. Join him on this journey and master the art of turning obstacles into stepping stones. Whether through his engaging podcast episodes, his insightful book, or his compelling talks, John R. Miles is your guide to a life of intentional success and happiness. Books can be purchased: at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and all local indie bookstores. Visit www.PassionStruck.com. Podcast sponsors are always welcome. For information, call (727) 900-6860 or email info@ passionstruck.com.
FEBRUARY 2024 / GREENBENCHMONTHLY.COM
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Voted #1 In Tampa Bay
The Evolution of Big Man’s Moving Company We used a well-known moving company for a local move. Upon investigation of our furniture, we found nicks and scratches all over our belongings. How could such an expensive service come with so much negligence? We realized a careful and diligent boutique moving company would be a huge opportunity in the marketplace… hence, the vision for Big Man’s Moving Company was born!
From Humble Beginnings
In late 2016, we got married and collectively decided to pursue our dream of owning a family business, and used our wedding gifts to partially fund our first 26’ truck.
Josh and Brooke Anderson, owners of Big Man’s Moving Company
Brooke had nicknamed Josh “Big Man” way before they started the moving company. At 6’8, his tall stature was the inspiration behind the name. When deciding on a name for the business, it seemed to be an obvious choice – and now Brooke refers to her husband as the company “mascot”.
To Award-Winning Services
Our professional team has successfully completed over 10,000 local, state-wide, and out-of-state moves. The company has evolved from 1 truck and working out of our home to 8 trucks, 30 employees, and an office just off of US-19. Despite the growth, our biggest accomplishment is being voted the #1 Moving Company in Tampa Bay by readers of the Tampa Bay Times for 3 consecutive years and by Creative Loafing in 2023. For more information about their full services, guarantees, insurance, and free estimates, visit www.bigmansmoving.com or call (727) 772-3458. Licenses: IM2726, DOT2951960 FEBRUARY 2024 / GREENBENCHMONTHLY.COM
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Maestro Mark Sforzini. Photos by Chris Ryan
St. Petersburg Opera Company: A Variety of Performances Brings Record Attendance By Suzanne Driscoll
St. Pete upholds its reputation as a center for the arts with one of its crown jewels being St. Pete Opera. The company has been putting on first-class operas since 2007, with singers and musicians coming from all over the world to perform here. In addition to a variety of operas, several other performances will be presented in order to attract an even broader audience that appreciates great music.
Famous Operas with the Theme of Love
There are two remaining opera performances that you won’t want to miss. From March 15-19, Puccini’s “Turandot" will be presented at
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the Palladium Theatre with a full orchestra. It takes place in ancient China and features a woman named Turandot who hates men and is determined not to get married. She devises three riddles for potential suitors.Wrong answers lead to a death penalty. A mysterious stranger answers all the riddles correctly and offers Turandot a challenge of his own: If she can learn his identity by dawn, he will forfeit his life. By the end of the opera, the man reveals his identity. At the emperor’s throne, Turandot declares she knows the stranger’s name: Love. Another wonderful story, Donizetti’s “Lucia di Lammermoor,” runs June 7-11. “This will be presented in a “Game of Thrones” style in another opera about marriage,” says Maestro Mark Sforzini. The Ashton family fortune is in danger and only the arranged marriage of Lucia to Arturo can save them. But Lucia is in love with another man, Edgardo, the leader of the family’s enemies. With twists and turns in the plot, Lucia goes mad, stabs Arturo and later dies. When Edgardo learns of her death he stabs himself in order to join her in heaven. Both operas will be sung in Italian with English translations projected above the stage.
Broadway Cabaret
The September Broadway Cabaret was sold out, so be sure to get your tickets soon for the next one, to be presented on March 2. “Here you can enjoy the captivating fusion of opera and musical theater in our intimate setting held at Opera Central,” Sforzini promises. “You will experience exhilarating interpretations of cherished Broadway
hits, ranging from iconic showstoppers, heartfelt ballads, and classical character studies to the most contemporary gems from musical theater, all performed by ‘Turandot’ cast members.”
Opera Scenes
“Opera Scenes” will be presented at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 8 and 2 p.m. on Feb. 10 at Opera Central, 2145 First Ave. S. Resident artists will perform excerpts from famous works such as Act 3 from Puccini’s “La Bohème” as well as several scenes from Gounod’s “Romeo and Juliet,” and Samuel Barber’s nine-minute opera, “A Hand of Bridge.”. Presented as part of the St. Petersburg Celebration of the Arts Shakespeare Festival, the performances are appropriate for novices and opera aficionados.
Mornings with the Maestro
Sforzini is excited to bring back “Mornings with the Maestro,” a 90-minute preview for upcoming operas, also at Opera Central. At 11 a.m. on March 1, you can learn all about “Turandot’s” music, characters, composer and historical background along with performances from members of the cast. The same opportunity will take place on May 31 for a preview of “Lucia di Lammermoor.” To enjoy a fun evening and to help support local opera, mark your calendar for “Bella Voce,” its annual gala, on April 20. St. Petersburg Opera Company and Opera Central are at 2145 1st Ave S in St. Pete. For information about upcoming performances or to purchase tickets, please visit www.stpeteopera.org or call (727) 8232040. Donations are always welcome to make education programs and productions possible, and sponsorships are available at all levels.
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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. Renovations to downtown St. Pete’s Sundial shopping and dining complex, which were announced in early 2023, will break ground in February. Located at 153 2nd Avenue North, the reimagined Sundial will feature multimillion dollar improvements intended to revitalize the once upscale retail shopping center into a modern mixed-use urban destination. The most significant change will be a complete overhaul and activation of the plaza’s courtyard, bringing plenty of communal
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Renovations to the Sundial at 153 2nd Ave N will break ground this month
green space for engaging programming and for guests to sit and enjoy food and drink. To make way for the upgrade, the courtyard’s nearly two-story sundial sculpture itself will be removed, as will the six life-size, bronze dolphins. Fit2Run, The Runner's Superstore, is moving to 855 Central Avenue. The relocation from the 256 2nd Street North storefront, which the fitness retailer has operated since 2012, comes as Delray Beach-based Kolter Group plans to build a 14-story, 192-room Tempo by Hilton hotel at the site. The new St. Pete store will include Fit2Run’s signature running track, a bike shop with sales and service, and an eight-seat bar with six taps filled with local beers. Fit2Run plans to reopen in April. The aging 640-slip St. Pete Municipal Marina is one step closer to undergoing a major overhaul. Mayor Ken Welch has selected Safe Harbor Marinas LLC for the redevelopment and operational management of the marina adjacent to the St. Pete Pier. The $48 million project includes a new two-story welcome and amenity center, a fitness facility, and flexible dock space to accommodate more than 325 boats. The mayor holds the authority to select a developer; however, the contract must go before the City Council for approval. St. Pete's Community Redevelopment Agency recently approved
the EDGE Collective II, a 20-story mixed-use development on the 1100 block of Central Avenue. The site is home to the former Dr. BBQ restaurant and a small retail building on Central Avenue. The proposed development will feature a 20-story tower with 360 apartments and 24,000 square feet of commercial space. The project is a continuation of the adjacent EDGE Collective development that features a new Moxy Hotel by Marriott and broke ground in January 2022. EDGE Collective II is expected to break ground in 2024 and complete construction in 2026. Glass of Life, a local stained-glass studio and workshop, is now open at 499 7th Avenue North, across from Round Lake in Historic Uptown. The new studio offers stained-glass classes where students can pick out their design, glass, size, and other specifications and learn how to score and break glass, grind, foil, and solder. Glass of Life is open from 2 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesdays and Thursdays and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturdays.
Glass of Life is now open at 499 7th Ave N in Historic Uptown
The EDGE Collective II was recently approved for development on the 1100 block of Central Ave
The Neon Lunchbox, an 80s and 90s retro-themed bar, is coming soon to 1756 Central Avenue (formerly The Hideaway Cafe). Live bands and DJs will perform onstage at The Neon Lunchbox during the weekend - filling a live music venue void in St. Pete's night scene. Food will also be available, but the menu is still in development. The Neon Lunchbox plans to open within the next two months. St. Pete Rising is an urban development blog covering future retail, restaurants, and real estate in Downtown St. Petersburg, FL. Stay up-todate, visit StPeteRising.com.
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FEBRUARY 2024
EVENTS The Chelsea Valentine’s Market When: Saturday, Feb 10 from 10 am - 2 pm Where: The Chelsea, 2462 5th Ave S Cost: Free Valentine’s fun with vendors & more. Jewelry, Portraits, Tarot Card Readings, and more. Thechelseastpete.com
Sunday Market St. Pete
When: Every Sunday 10am-2pm (through May) Where: St. Pete High School, 2501 5th Ave N Cost: Free Over 75 vendors, including
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Anne Van Atta tunes her guitar for Ladies Rock. Watch them perform live at Bayboro Brewing on Sunday, Feb 11 from 2pm
local growers, artists, makers, culinary artisans and community partners. Featuring live local music performed during all open hours for attendees to enjoy while shopping, snacking and socializing. The market offers free parking onsite, is family-friendly, pet-friendly, free to attend and open to all in the community. tampabaymarkets.com
is an annual regional celebration where families and the public can explore the wonders of hands-on science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM). The event will be held in conjunction with MarineQuest, the annual open house of the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission’s Fish and Wildlife Research Institute. Stpetescifest.org
St. Petersburg Science Festival
Loved by You: Couples Connection Workshop
When: Saturday, Feb 10 from 10 am - 4 pm Where: University of South Florida St. Petersburg campus and Poynter Park, 3rd St S & 9th Ave S Cost: Free The St. Petersburg Science Festival
GREENBENCHMONTHLY.COM / FEBRUARY 2024
When: Sunday, Feb 11 from 2 pm - 4:30 pm Where: The Body Electric Yoga Company, 3015 7th St. N Cost: $90 per pair Show your appreciation for your
partner by sharing a memorable evening of quality time and connection in the company of other couples. Join Kristina Rich in this bond-building workshop, which offers a delightful blend of partner stretches, relationship exercises that ignite meaningful conversations, and a restorative sound bath. To wrap up the evening, stay for a relaxed social half-hour with group share, snacks, and beverages, providing an opportunity for you and your partner to integrate and savor the experience before heading home. thebodyelectricyoga.com
5th Annual Paczki Day Dance When: Sunday, Feb 11 from 1:30 - 6 pm
Parents’ Night Out at Boyd Hill Nature Preserve Feirday, Feb 16
Where: Polish American Society of St. Petersburg, 1343 Beach Dr. SE Cost: $10 presale; $12 at the door Come spend Mardi Gras at the St. Petersburg 5th annual Paczki – Polish Donut Dance. Doors open at 1:30 P.M. Cash Bar. Dancing from 3-6 P.M. to Florida Generations band. Polish dinner will be served from 2:00-3:30 P.M. at a cost of $14. Admission is $10 presale and $12 at the door. Everyone receives a free Paczki-Donut. For information and ticket sales contact, Ken Jakubowski at 727-666-5357 or kmjak@verizon.net.
Hail the Ladies All of St. Petersburg!
When: Sunday, Feb 11 from 2 pm - 5:30 pm Where: Bayboro Brewing, 2390 5th Ave S Cost: $20 at the door, kids 13 and under are free. 25 courageous women will debut their new bands after only one transformative weekend together. Women’s voices need to be
amplified to create social change! Show up to support their fearless self-expression. Enjoy opening acts Anarkitty & Doll Parts, punkrock crafting, brews, non-brews, a raffle, and fun for all ages. girlsrockstpete.org
Parents’ Night Out
When: Friday, Feb 16 Where: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, 1101 Country Club Way S. Cost: $25, Ages 6-12 Drop the kids off for a Friday evening of outdoor-themed activities. Through hiking and nature exploration, kids will experience the natural world with hands-on opportunities and engaging activities. Events. stpeteparksrec.org
11th Annual Localtopia
When: Saturday, Feb 24 from 10 am-5 pm Where: Williams Park, 330 2nd Ave N
Localtopia will be held in Williams Park on Saturday, Feb 24 from 10am - 5pm
Cost: Free admission (donations accepted) The largest-ever showcase of St. Pete’s small businesses, with over 300 vendors! St. Pete’s largest “Community Celebration of All Things Local” showcasing *OVER 300* of your favorite independent businesses and community organizations. More than a festival, it’s a (local) vibe! Localtopia is presented by Keep Saint Petersburg Local, St. Pete’s independent business alliance. The festival, founded in 2014, collectively celebrates all that makes our city great via its arts, music, food, drinks, and culture. Localtopia. KeepSaintPetersburgLocal.org
SPMOP Open Call for New Photo Laureate 2024
When: accepting submissions through March 18 Where: St. Petersburg Cost: Free There is currently an open call for photographers to submit portfolios on the SPMOP website. The deadline of this open call is March 18th, 2024, and it is open to all photographers living in the Tampa Bay area. A short-list of 5 finalists will get to exhibit their work at the Morean Arts Center. The new Photo Laureate will be announced at the opening of the exhibition. A solo exhibition with the body of work created by the Photo Laureate will be shown during the next SPMOP in 2025 at the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts. www.spmop.org
For more events, or to submit event info, visit greenbenchmonthly.com/events
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