Green Bench Monthly - Vol 3, Issue 11, November 2018

Vol. 3, Issue 11, November 2018

St. Pete’s Direct-Mail Community Magazine

Take Photos with Santa at Crescent Lake pg. 14

Guide to Giving: Local Gift Ideas pg. 16

North Shore Elementary

A School’s Rebirth pg. 8

AR Workshop

Get Creative pg. 12

Why You Need Trivia This Month

Thinkin’ Drinkin’ pg. 27

Hello Hello

Publishers

Poem by Robb Hasencamp

Ashley & Tony Sica

Let’s say hello To a spanking fine day Brimming with hope Of promised new life

Editors

Rui Farias Kristi Kasak Marilyn Jade Mary Jane Park Cathy Weisberg

Windsurfing at Vinoy.

Photo by Brian Brakebill

Contributors

Tara Britton, Tina Stewart Brakebill, Vandi Carmella, Erin Cody, Rui Farias, Denielle Kennett, Mary Jane Park, Nehemiah Warner, Brian Zucker

Photographers Brian Brakebill Emily Canfield Kelly Nash

Cover Photo: Santa at Crescent Lake Photo by Alison Amick Photography

Contact

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

Proud member of:

Waterfront at Sunrise. Photo by City of St. Petersburg.

From the Bench Hey, you! Support your community this Holiday season by shopping at local businesses. Check out pg. 16 for gift ideas; including limited edition Green Bench Monthly t-shirts designed by local Illustrator Erik Jasek. All proceeds benefit Community Action Stops Abuse (CASA).

Till next time,

In This Issue: 5 6

hello@greenbenchmonthly.com 12 “AR” You Ready to Get Creative?

From the Museum’s Archives: The War is Over

14 Photos with Santa at Crescent Lake

Taking In Historic Old Northeast

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North Shore Elementary: A Neighborhood School’s Rebirth

10 Community News

11 Pilot Bank: Local Banking Comes to Town

16 Guide to Giving: Local Gift Ideas 18 Hand Pick Your Florist: Absolutely Beautiful Flowers 20 St. Thomas’ Episcopal

Church: A place for worship

22 People of St. Pete: Terrance Brown

24 Sunshine City Kids: Where to Volunteer with Your Family this Holiday Season

27 Thinkin’ Drinkin’: Why

You Need Trivia This Month & Where to Find it

29 Downtown Developments 30 Events

Green Bench Monthly Is Direct-mailed to 15,400 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: The War Is Over With St. Petersburg Museum of History Executive Director, Rui Farias

In the early morning hours of November 11, 1918, the blast of sirens jolts the residents of St. Petersburg out of their beds. They will soon find out “The War to End All Wars” is over. Mayor Al Lang closes the schools and asks businesses to shut down to celebrate. By 5:30 a.m., thousands have gathered in Williams Park to hear the official news of the armistice that ended World War I, and to pray for thanks. Later that afternoon, a parade filled with veterans, including those from both the Grand Army of the Republic and the Confederate Army, march

down Central Avenue. Twenty years after the end of World War I, the St. Petersburg chapter of the American War Mothers dedicates this memorial at the entrance to Williams Park to honor the sons of St. Petersburg who served in World War I. Inscribed on the monument God gave us sons; we gave them to our country and our country gave them back to God. 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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Photos by Tony Sica

Taking In Historic Old Northeast

By Jack Spinrad

It was one of St. Petersburg’s beautiful breezy evenings. We had finished an early dinner at The Birchwood on Beach Drive and as we walked out the door we noticed a beautiful white carriage with a large black horse standing at the curb across the way. My wife, the animal lover, had to go and pet the good-looking animal. When we stepped up on the curb we were met by the driver who allowed my wife to pet the horse and asked if we would like to take the tour. It was still light out and we thought it would be a pleasant end to our night.

Neighborhood Charm

As we wandered the brick streets of the oldest section of Historic Old Northeast we couldn’t help but marvel at the giant Spanish-moss-draped oak trees and historic homes. Were it not for the autos parked along the street we could well have gone back in time or perhaps somehow entered the pages of a romantic Southern novel. Funny, we have lived in St. Petersburg for nearly 30 years and traveled these same streets many times without truly paying much attention to the ambiance of the area. But at a slow clip-clop, we were able to appreciate the area’s beauty.

We passed busy restaurants and shops on Beach Drive, making our way by the Vinoy Renaissance Park Hotel to North Shore Drive. At the intersection with 10th Avenue NE, our driver pointed out the Gizella Kopsick Arboretum just north of the North Shore swimming pool. The arboretum contains more than 150 species represented by more than 500

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palms and cycads. It is open from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset daily.

The Northeast Draw

Our carriage driver was quite knowledgeable and kept up a running commentary about the area. As we made our way down Coffee Pot Blvd.

NE, he pointed to a three-story Italianate house across the bayou on Snell Isle and said the house was built by C. Perry Snell in 1924. Snell along with J.C. Hamlett was responsible for developing the Northeast Neighborhood.

Their stated goal at the time was to build the premier residential neighborhood along Coffee Pot Bayou next to the city. Begun in 1911, what is now the Historic Old Northeast is bordered by 5th Avenue North to 30th Avenue North and 4th Street North to Tampa Bay. C. Perry Snell was an advocate of William Straub’s waterfront park system and was instrumental in extending the park northward to Coffee Pot Bayou. This gave the city the major part of the waterfront. This park with its large open spaces is one of the greatest attractions of Old Northeast and draws visitors and St. Petersburg residents alike to enjoy the waterfront.

Within its borders the eclectic neighborhood contains every type of architecture used before the 1950’s: Mediterranean, Colonial, Tudor, Prairie, and Craftsman Bungalow, to name a few. Further along on Coffee Pot Blvd. we came upon the Granada Terrace subdivision, which was also platted by Snell. It was required that all buildings within its borders be built in the Mediterranean style. In 1988 it was designated as a Local Historic District.

It is a compact neighborhood whose features include a large, concrete pylon pergola and benches on the west side of the Boulevard. Granada Park bisects the South portion of the area, ending on the east side of Coffee Pot Boulevard in a large, semi-circular drive with a broad sidewalk along the water.

Explore Coffee Pot Bayou

This sidewalk is part of a 2-mile walking & biking path that runs from downtown St. Petersburg, along the edge of Tampa Bay, and on to Coffee Pot Bayou. It is a safe, well-lit path with fantastic views, benches for resting and access to a small beach off of North Shore Park. While manatees can be seen along the bayou most of the year, they are more numerous during our cooler months when they seek respite from the colder waters of the Gulf.

We arrived back at our starting point, gave the horse a final pat, and paid for our tour along with a generous tip for the very enjoyable and enlightening 45-minute ride.

You too Can Tour the Historic Old Northeast

Each year, usually on the second Sunday in December, the Historic Old Northeast Neighborhood Association hosts The Candlelight Tour of Homes with selected residents opening their homes to visitors. Many of the architectural styles are featured. Proceeds benefit neighborhood community improvement projects, with a portion going to a selected local charity. This year the tour is Dec. 9th from 3pm - 8pm and proceeds benefit The Sunken Gardens Forever Foundation. Tickets are $25 per person in advance and $30 the day of the event. For more info or to purchase tickets, visit honna.org.

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North Shore Elementary. Photo by Tony Sica.

North Shore Elementary: A Neighborhood School’s Rebirth

By Nehemiah Warner

“Did you know that North Shore used to be called Coffee Pot Elementary? That tickles me,” says Monica Kile.

Kile is a local parent volunteer at the 1927 red brick school shaded by oaks in the Old Northeast area of St. Petersburg. Her love and intrigue for her neighborhood school is on full display as she helps plan the second annual Turkey Trot to benefit the school. She has not always been so enthusiastic.

Two years ago it was a matter of convenience when her husband, Jon, faced a health crisis with a rare genetic condition that affects his arteries. They chose to send their son, James, to North Shore because it was close to home. Their daughter Anna enrolled two years later, and Kile realized she had fallen in love with North Shore Elementary. She became a strong advocate for a “bloom where you are planted” outlook toward their neighborhood school.

That’s What Friends are For

About a year before Kile arrived, Friends of North Shore Elementary (FNSE) was born of sidewalk conversations among parents, who saw families in the neighborhood sending their kids to ten different schools elsewhere. FNSE sought to boost morale and interest in North Shore by highlighting its small classes, great faculty and staff, and “B” rating.

This tiny gem of a school, home of the mighty Knights, is at 35th Avenue NE and Oak Street and has fewer than 400 students. The school’s rebirth is due to the tireless efforts of concerned parents partnering with North Shore’s dedicated teachers and staff. After hosting listening sessions, FNSE’s main focus has been preschool outreach to dispel the myth that private, fundamental, or charter schools are the only options for children

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in the area. FNSE provided generous “Classroom Boosts” funding for enhancements such as technology and supplies, implemented giftedprogram testing for all kindergarteners, and increased teacher-appreciation efforts. Two years after FNSE’s formation, kindergarten enrollment at the school increased by 20 percent.

Coffee Pot Turkey Trot

Now a believer, Kile became involved with the PTA. Recognizing that the closest Thanksgiving run was in Clearwater, the PTA saw an opportunity for a great neighborhood tradition and a promising fundraising possibility.

This year, the PTA is hosting the second annual Coffee Pot Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. Last year’s event was capped at 500; this year there is space for 2,000 runners. The city of St. Petersburg has partnered with the PTA to co-sponsor the event, bringing the marketing, planning, and logistical strength to the event. Parents on the PTA brought in local sponsors like LeavenLaw and business owners in the neighborhood such as Cycle Brewing and Skyway Capital. Funds raised will be used for a literacy program called “One School, One Book,” where every student receives a copy of the same book to read at home with their family, and the school engages in related enriching activities. The PTA also will invest in professional development for teachers, supply reimbursement, and afterschool programs. Known as “7th Hour,” the extracurricular programming includes chess, dance, drama, band, science, Spanish, and soccer. In addition, funds will also go toward community events such as the family barbecue, spaghetti dinner, and open houses.

The Kile Family: Monica, Jon, Anna (5) and James. Join them and the rest of the FNSE on Nov. 22nd for the Annual Turkey Trot

Show and Tell

The community has much to learn from North Shore’s rebirth.

“The lesson to be learned at North Shore is one that can be applied to any school, or really any community effort,” Kile said. “And that is activism, involvement, and effort will reap tremendous dividends in your own back yard. You just have to get busy.”

Fortunately for North Shore Elementary, local parents did just that.

All neighborhood schools have the potential to experience a similar reinvigoration. The key has been family involvement and pride in community. In all their efforts, not only did parents help a neighborhood school regain its place in the community, but they also taught their children to take joy in where they live through volunteerism.

North Shore Elementary PTA invites you to its Coffee Pot Turkey Trot 5K along Coffee Pot Bayou at 7:45am on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 22.

Registration is open at www.runsignup.com/coffeepotturkeytrot. Contact Amber Brinkley at (727) 466-7695 for more information.

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Proposed kiosk. City of St. Petersburg.

Crescent Lake goose. Photo by Brian Brakebill.

Community News New Flood Maps affect Snell Isle and Old Northeast

While many neighborhoods in St. Pete saw a decrease in their insurance rates, FEMA’s new flood maps raise the cost of insurance significantly in parts of Snell Isle and Historic Old Northeast. To see if your address has been affected, visit: https://msc. fema.gov/portal/search

Proposal for Digital Information Kiosks Downtown

Mayor Rick Kriseman would like to install digital information kiosks downtown as a way to better communicate with visitors, but some business owners and council members say this could be a distraction and will clutter the already busy sidewalks.

The City is in the process of obtaining bids.

What do you think? Let the Mayor and city council know your thoughts; email mayor@ stpete.org and council@stpete.org.

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Crosswalks Coming Soon on Dr MLK Jr St N

In September, as part of the Complete Streets initiative, the city resurfaced and restriped Dr MLK Jr St N from 4th to 34th Ave. The next part of this project adds five enhanced pedestrian crosswalks, expected to be installed sometime this month. Also keep an eye out for changes on Highland St N between 4th Ave N and 9th Ave N; plans are in place to replace a car lane with a bike lane. For more information, visit stpete.org/ complete-streets.

Crescent Lake Geese Relocated to Sanctuary

The geese of Crescent Lake have a new home after many have gone missing. The City of St. Petersburg in collaboration with a group of concerned citizens facilitated the relocation of seven remaining geese from Crescent Lake to a safe location to protect them.

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(From Left) Magnolia Heights Neighborhood Association (MHNA) President Jack Spinrad, CSO Joshua Jordan, and GBM Publisher / MHNA Vice President Tony Sica.

Mayor’s Annual Neighborhood Partnership Awards

City leaders and SPPD’s finest gathered for an evening to celebrate neighborhood initiatives and the people that make our neighborhoods special. The Council of Neighborhood Associations (CONA) announced this year’s winner of the Ray Merritt Outstanding Community Service Officer award: Joshua Jordan. Congrats to all winners, runner ups and nominees!

State of Science in St. Pete

3D printing, red tide, coastal mapping, underwater acoustics, data analytics, and early childhood development were the main topics of discussion at the Innovation District’s State of Science event held earlier in October at the new Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital Research & Education Building. For more on the latest in the District, visit stpeteinnovationdistrict.com.

Pilot Bank Executive Vice President, Shawn Hannan, and President, Rita Lowman.

Mural by Derek Donnelly and John Gascot.

Photos by Emily Canfield.

Pilot Bank: Local Banking Comes to Town

By Tina Stewart Brakebill

Pilot Bank debuted in Tampa in 1987, making it one of the most established community banks in Tampa Bay. Providing retail and commercial services to individuals, businesses, and institutions has allowed Pilot Bank to expand since that initial opening. Tampa is still home to the bank’s headquarters, and the bank’s growth has given rise to three additional banking centers in Tampa as well as one in Lakeland. In a time when local banks are being sold or gobbled up by outside institutions, Pilot stands as an important member of the local Tampa Bay community.

Great Service Crosses the Bridge

Now, that local service has arrived on our side of the bay. In October, Pilot Bank opened its newest banking center on Fourth Street N in St. Petersburg. For customers who want to bank with a locally based institution, Pilot Bank is a full-service banking facility with drive-through stations and an automatic teller machine on site.

It also is fully staffed to help customers manage both personal and business matters with face-to-face service. As Pilot Bank sees it, “building an exceptional relationship with you is our most important job.” Customers are the priority. If you are coming to Pilot Bank for personal banking, you have access to a wide variety of services and products. For businesses, Pilot Bank offers retail and commercial deposit accounts as well as commercial.

Choose Local, Boost Local

Pilot Bank, at 2180 Fourth St. N, is close to downtown St. Petersburg and the MLK Business District as well as the Old Northeast and Crescent Lake neighborhoods. But it’s not just about convenience of geography. Pilot Bank is also committed to being an integral part of St. Petersburg, not merely an extension of a Tampa institution. Pilot Bank President Rita Lowman and Chief Lending Officer and Executive Vice President Shawn Hannan, both city residents, have their offices at the St. Pete office. The facility has a conference room available for community use. In addition, Pilot Bank is committed to supporting St. Petersburg’s thriving local art scene. The works of local artists will be on rotating display inside the bank, and local artists Derek Donnelly and John Gascot were commissioned to collaborate on a mural for the building’s north wall. It depicts the first commercial airline flight in the world, from St. Petersburg to Tampa on New Year’s Day 1914, piloted by Tony Jannus.

Welcome to the ‘Burg

For more information visit the Pilot Bank website at www.pilot.bank or stop by in person at 2180 Fourth St. N on the corner of 4th St N and 22nd Ave N. NOVEMBER 2018 /

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Owner, Larissa Daigle.

Photos by Emily Canfield.

“AR” You Ready to Get Creative This Holiday Season?

By Erin Cody

You know those drink-and-paint places that seem to have popped up everywhere in the past few years? While sipping a glass of mediocre wine, you get the pleasure of remembering just how bad you were at art as a kid.

AR Workshop, however, is decidedly different in every way. The quality of your work will be less like “meh” and more like “WOW”.

Warm and Welcoming

“Five stars isn’t enough,” says one very pleased customer in a review on Facebook. Their plethora of stellar reviews promise that the creations that come out of workshops at AR look like they belong in a Pinterestperfect home. The friendly and talented team will make absolutely certain of it—even if you have a history of being more of a color-outsidethe-lines type.

“I think people are surprised that they can be so creative with no prior experience, and our workshop space is warm and welcoming. It is a wonderful place to gather with a group of friends, family or colleagues for a relaxing and creative alternative to just going out to eat or to a movie.

We also carry a really lovely and affordable line of retail home décor and jewelry,” says Owner, Larissa Daigle.

Custom Projects

“Unlike some DIY workshops, we offer many different types of projects that can be customized. When you book a class with friends, each of you may be doing something completely different. Our designs are developed and curated by a team of professional graphic designers and can be whimsical or elegant but always great décor for your home or to give as a gift. We offer hundreds of techniques and colors of paints and stains that allow even the least experienced do-it-yourselfer to leave with a beautifully crafted piece.”

What type of project might you work on during your visit? Perhaps a framed wooden sign, Lazy Susan or a centerpiece box to cozy up your home. You might decorate a canvas tote, pillow or wall hanging. Maybe even produce a “chunky blanket” or a beautiful, personalized wooden picture frame to send to Grandma. She always preferred homemade presents anyway, right?

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Seasonal, On-Trend Designs

Larissa continues, “We’ve just released 20 new designs, including things for Christmas and Chanukah. Our workshop will be decorated for the holiday season, and we will be offering several family-friendly classes where everyone can make wood-slice ornaments while enjoying cookies and cocoa!”

BYOB or Wine

Into the idea but still want to be able to drink with your pals? Fear not! Wine Down Wednesday occurs a couple times each month. Instead of gulping down a single glass of lousy wine, bring your own favorite beer or wine to AR and enjoy as much as you like! Sounds like the perfect way to smooth your hump day!

Workshops for All Ages

Kids workshops are also available, as are booking opportunities for private events and parties. It’s an awesome idea for a festive holiday soirée, family outing, birthday party, team building exercise, girls night out, fundraiser, corporate event, or even a good ol’ date night. All skill levels are welcome - really! You will be amazed what you are capable of with the right tools and support.

Want to get in on it?

Check out www.arworkshop.com/stpetersburg to see their workshop schedule and get more details. While you’re there, be sure to sign up for their free VIP program. Their classes, especially for making “chunky blankets,” have been selling out right away, but your VIP status will give you first dibs.

AR Workshop has been kind enough to offer Green Bench Monthly a special discount of $5 off per person, per class. Just use code “918gbm5” when you book. Stop on by and get creative this holiday season. Happy crafting!

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Jenny Roche and the rest of the RE/MAX Reality Unlimited team at last year’s Santa at Crescent Lake event benefiting the Children’s Miracle Network. Back Row from Left to Right: Rachael Casterlin (last year’s Elf), Waleska Lozada, Bob Roche, Ben Soto, Jenny Roche, Shannon Tilley.

Sitting on bench: Dave Parrish (Santa), Nanacy Hadam. Photo by Alison Amick Photography.

Dec. 1st: Photos with Santa at Crescent Lake

By Tina Stewart Brakebill With Christmas quickly approaching, Santa and the elves have been hard at work in their North Pole workshop! As reward for all that hard work, Santa decided to take a short break and visit beautiful St. Petersburg. From noon to 3pm on Dec. 1, you’ll find Santa and two lucky elves at Crescent Lake enjoying the Florida sunshine. As a thank-you for the warm welcome, Santa will pose for pictures taken by professional photographer Alison Amick. So bring your pets, your kids, and yourself, and have a photo made with Santa!

Take a Picture. Make a Difference in the life of a Dog (or Cat or Bird or Rabbit or …)

Santa is an animal lover (just ask Rudolph!), so he’s using this visit as an opportunity to raise money for one of his favorite charities. You’ll pay a small fee of $10 to have your photo made with him and the money will be donated to a great cause, Gimme Shelter Pet Adoption. Gimme Shelter is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, charitable organization run entirely by volunteers. Its purpose is “to rescue animals out of overcrowded shelters where they are at risk for disease and euthanasia.” Once rescued, the animals are fostered in volunteer foster homes until they can be placed in permanent, loving homes. The goal is for these animals never to experience being homeless or unloved again. Find out more about the great work they do at gimmeshelterpets.com.

Meet, Treat, and Relax

Gimme Shelter will also be on site that day with a small selection of pets seeking to be adopted into their forever homes. So come meet the newest member of your family! Volunteers also will be available to answer questions about other ways you can help. And because no event is complete without treats, Lady’s Event Caravan featuring Baked will be on site with cookies and hot chocolate for people and special treats for fur babies. Lady’s Event Caravan featuring Baked will donate profits to Gimme Shelter. And if choosing the perfect outfit for your holiday photo shoot has left you a bit stressed then, Chris Crawford of North Shore Chiropractic will be on site offering massages.

Santa’s Little Helpers

As Jenny Roche of RE/MAX Realty Unlimited noted, “Who wants to go to the mall and wait inside when you can get Santa AND the sunshine.” It’s a perfect Florida combination. For the second year in a

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Lady’s Event Caravan will be on-site serving up cookies, hot chocolate, and special treats for fur babies.

row, Roche helped make this wonderful event possible. She and local businessmen Mike Rettew of Rettew Law and Crawford of North Shore Chiropractic, are the event’s primary sponsors, with additional help, support, donated time, and supplies from local professionals Alison Amick Photography, Florida Print Solutions, and Lady’s Event Caravan featuring Baked.

Chris Crawford of North Shore Chiropractic will be offering massages.

Photo by Alison Amick Photography.

Santa Claus: Good Fun and a Good Cause

If you like Santa or pets or cookies or massages or hot chocolate or having your picture made or December in Florida then come on out to Crescent Lake Park between noon and 3pm on Dec. 1. It’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon, commemorate the holiday season, and revel in the perfect weather of a St. Petersburg December. While you’re enjoying your day, you’ll also be supporting a worthy cause. As Gimme Shelter explains, “approximately 6 million companion animals enter shelters nationwide every year, and approximately 3 million of those animals are euthanized due to overcrowding. Too many animals, and not enough people to adopt or temporarily foster them, result in the killing of reasonably young, friendly and healthy pets each day.” You can help. So come on out! Enjoy and help an animal live a safe and happy life.

Article sponsored by Jenny Roche of RE/MAX Reality Unlimited.

She is “never too busy for your referrals.” For more information, visit her at her office at 2012 Fourth St. N, on the web at www.homesaroundstpetersburg.com or call (727) 308-3330.

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Hand Pick Your Florist

By Tara Britton

Shop owner and floral artist, Brad Catlin.

Photos by Emily Canfield.

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In a time when we all seem to have “our” hair stylist, “our” nail salon, “our” personal trainer, life coach, mechanic and more, why don’t more of us have a florist we call our own? Why doesn’t the phrase “my florist” come up more often in conversation?

Few service providers are part of as many monumental life events as “our florist” is, or should be. From events like proms to weddings, or graduations to retirements, florals are known to be a staple piece present. Florists are those we work with in times of loss, to mark life’s milestones and to celebrate holidays.

Floral arrangements are frequently found on the extreme opposite ends of the occasion spectrum, like celebrating the birth of a child versus honoring a loved one at a memorial service. However, somewhere in the middle is also the opportunity to use florals for no occasion at all except to “treat yourself ”, a popular motto as of late. A simple arrangement is known to brighten a mood or physical space with just a few blooms, without demanding a federal holiday as justification. The reasons for having a florist of your “own” are as endless as the moments that call for flowers.

Absolutely Beautiful Flowers wants to be “your” florist. Sticking true to their namesake, the family owned and operated business provides absolutely beautiful flowers, whatever your taste, budget or occasion.

Found downtown in St. Pete, they’ve established themselves as a go-to for high end floral needs since opening in 2011. They surpass run of the mill, ordinary expectations; they’re committed to providing a luxury service in the floral industry, resulting in extraordinary products.

Brighten up your home or party with fresh seasonal arrangements.

Keep it Local

Absolutely Beautiful Flowers wants to keep dollars in our community by encouraging local spending at a professional level.

While large chains or grocers in the area may appear to be more convenient, they certainly lack the touch of best in the business.

Supporting Absolutely Beautiful Flowers promotes the St. Pete community, keeping more money in the area. They also work hard to prove their as easy to work with and can be as affordable as some big box stores.

Absolutely Beautiful Flowers has mastered the art of traditional arrangements. They push boundaries with unique handcrafted arrangements. Thinking outside of the box, or bouquet if you will, they’re able to create arrangements resembling anything from animals to cocktails. Their professional staff are well versed in a wide spectrum of arrangement styles from elaborate to minimally inspired.

Think Outside the Bouquet

If an arrangement doesn’t fit the bill, they offer a vast selection of other options. They carry a range of plant selections including: succulent and dish gardens, orchids and tropical plants. Shoppers can also find: dried floral arrangements, gift baskets, gourmet fruit baskets, and greeting cards at Absolutely Beautiful Flowers. For the bride-to-be, consider their custom wedding packages; they offer a free consultation and can handle every floral detail from ceremony to reception.

Establish Absolutely Beautiful Flowers as “your” florist. They deliver in Pinellas, Hillsborough and Manatee counties. Their network of trusted florists even offers delivery nationwide, and Absolutely Beautiful Flowers offers same-day flower delivery throughout St. Petersburg!

Visit Absolutely Beautiful Flowers at 574 1st Ave. N. To place an order by phone call 727-470-5825 or find more information at www.absolutelybeautiful.us.

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Rev. Ryan R. Whitley standing in the courtyard of St. Thomas’ Episcopoal Church in Snell Isle. Photo by Emily Canfield.

St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church: A place for worship

by Mary Jane Park

St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church in St. Petersburg and the Episcopal Church of the United States are members of the Worldwide Anglican Communion. As such, they observe the worship customs offered in the Book of Common Prayer.

Members of the St. Thomas’ community are modern citizens who Michelle and Everett Jennings, brought Bennie to St. Thomas’ for the cheer on the Tampa Bay Rays. At a September home game against the Blessing of the Animals service. Photo by Pippa Mpunzwana Toronto Blue Jays, Father Ryan Whitley, the church’s rector, threw out the first pitch and the church choir sang Take Me Out To The Ballgame in Washington, D.C., and/or royal weddings and funerals broadcast during the seventh-inning stretch. from England. The images are traditional, formal, and sometimes stuffy.

“In the time-honored words of our worship,” Whitley says, “we Where All Are Blessed ground ourselves in the rhythms of a spirituality that has spoken for For the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi in October, parishioners and generations and speaks still today. Bolstered by traditional liturgy and visitors to the parish brought pets for a Blessing of the Animals service. progressive theology, we are equipping ourselves to be positive agents Dogs, cats, a chicken, and a rabbit were joined by an owl, a snake, a of change in our community, for the sake of the Gospel.”

St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church was organized in 1952 to serve what macaw, and turtles from Boyd Hill Nature Preserve in St. Petersburg.

There was even Ty, a caged 650-pound Siberian tiger brought by Vernon was then the fast-growing Snell Isle area. Two years later, having acquired Yates of Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation, who licked Fr. Whitley’s and drained three acres of submerged land there, the congregation held its first worship service in a building that is now the church parish hall. outstretched hand.

When people think of the Episcopal Church, they often remember Today, the property also is home to the lower school (Grades Pre-K worship services they have seen televised from The National Cathedral through 4) or Hough Campus of the Canterbury School of Florida.

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On a Mission

St. Thomas’ efforts go well beyond the boundaries of its neighborhood. Parishioners march in the annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Pride parades, volunteer in all aspects of the St. Petersburg Free Clinic, and organize mission trips to Haiti, Honduras, and many areas throughout the United States. Most recently, a mission is planned to go the Florida Panhandle to help those affected by Hurricane Michael.

Through efforts such as “Pack a Snack” and “Lunchtime Pals”, church members volunteer with students at nearby North Shore Elementary School. They collect book donations to build a library at Happy Workers learning center, the longest-running day-care organization for St. Petersburg’s working poor. The church continually accepts donations of nonperishable food and personal items for area food pantries; children’s underwear and socks are collected for Clothes to Kids, which serves needy youngsters in the area. Each month, parishioners assemble and deliver more than 1,000 bologna-and-cheese sandwiches to St. Petersburg charitable organizations.

St. Thomas’ members founded the Coffeepot Bayou Watershed Alliance which now has more than five partner institutions. They organized and participated in a cleanup event in September, picking up trash and debris around storm sewers and gutters in the area.

Recently, the Rev. Martha Moore Goodwill, St. Thomas’ deacon, began a partnership with St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church to establish Benison Farm on 1½ acres of land owned by St. Augustine’s parish. The name comes from an old English word for “blessing.”

“The purpose of the farm,” Goodwill says, “is to provide fresh produce to food-deprived areas in St. Petersburg and to engage a diverse group of people in serving the community. We are about so much more than farming. St. Petersburg’s racial divisions are both historic and present. The dream is that we will serve together and that service

Photo by Pippa Mpunzwana

will lead to an increase in the love, respect, and caring to which our Christian commitment calls all of us.” She continued “Through mutual work and learning, groups from various ethnicities, religions, and backgrounds learn to respect each other and work together to support our community. Our hope is that Benison Farm will be a blessing to all.”

Get Involved

If any - or all - of these community support efforts sound interesting to you, please stop by for a visit to see how you can get involved.

St. Thomas’ Episcopal Church, 1200 Snell Isle Blvd. NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33704; stthomasstpete.org; (727) 896-9641. Principal worship services are at 8 and 10 am each Sunday.

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People of St Pete: Terrance Brown

By Tina Stewart Brakebill

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 Monthly shines a light on one of the many people that makes St. Pete unique.

The Looper Driver

As a St. Petersburg Looper Trolley driver, Brown helps make our downtown more accessible and fun. Whether it’s for a short hop or the longer loop, riding with him is an absolute pleasure. As a lifelong resident, he knows the city’s history. He’s also gracious and entertaining.

As he told me, his favorite part of the job is “putting smiles on people’s faces.” After watching him at work, I believe it. And remember the Looper isn’t just for tourists: As a local, I often use it to get around.

Whether you’re from here or elsewhere, take a ride with Brown. You’ll enjoy it: I promise.

More Than a Looper Driver

Brown and his identical twin brother, Terrill, are Class of ’89 St. Petersburg High School Green Devils. For nearly a decade, Terrance Brown taught Pre-K and elementary school. He’s a devoted son who describes his mom as “the best person I ever met.” He and his wife, “Alana, the most beautiful,” as he refers to her, wed 22 years ago. Four children and one grandson later, he still loves being married. That attitude must run in the family. His parents, Maude and James Brown, have been married for 60 years! He plays golf and (as a former player) is a big basketball fan; during the recent NBA playoffs, his evening plans included rooting for the 2018 champion Golden State Warriors with his two youngest kids. In short, he is a nice guy who appreciates his life and loves his family.

Optimism

Terrance makes optimism look easy. His family is essential, and he talks about other influences in his life. One story, in particular, stood out for me. After he got into some minor scrapes in school, his assistant principal, thinking Brown was squandering his potential, steered him toward a job at Haslam’s Bookstore. During his eight years there, he developed a love for books and met best-selling authors including Arthur Ashe and James Michener. Store co-owner Elizabeth Haslam entrusted him with responsibility. That confidence, from someone other than family, changed him, he said. He left believing that even if he grew up poor, he could be “more than where he was from.”

Faith

Today, Brown describes being a Jehovah’s Witness as the defining element of his life. In his view, his faith has deepened his love for his family and community. It allows him to see the best in the worst. He is not ignorant to reality, but his teenage belief that he could be “more than where he was from” has expanded to his adult assurance that the world does not shape him. This certainty creates a space for his “love of others.” I am not a religious person, and our talk didn’t change that, but his optimism is infectious. I walked away happy. For that, I thank him!

Photo by Evan Sigmund

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For information about the St. Petersburg Looper Trolley, its schedules, fares, and rentals, visit loopertrolley.com

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Stephanie and Aiden Vanasco and Allison Clark collect food for Radius Church Thanksgiving Project

Doing Good Together: Where to Volunteer with Your Family this Holiday Season

Alley cleanup for Adopt-a-Block

Florida Dream Center’s Adopt-a-Block

Families are welcomed to join the Florida Dream Center’s Adopta-Block program on Saturday mornings in both South St. Pete and Lealman. The organization aims to provide anything the community is in need of; including street cleanup, home repairs, lawn maintenance and a host of other services. Call the Florida Dream Center at 727851-9074 to sign up.

The Kind Mouse

In addition to adult volunteers, children ages 5 to 18 can be MICE Volunteers with The Kind Mouse, an organization that assists families

By Vandi Carmella and Denielle Kent in transition and their chronically hungry children. MICE Volunteers St. Petersburg is an excellent place to spread good cheer to those attend MICE meetings to discuss upcoming events and help out in the in need this holiday season. From food banks to pack-a-sack events pantry. Volunteers get started by filling out an application on The Kind to outdoor projects, families can make a big impact with hands-on Mouse’s website at www.thekindmouse.org. opportunities for even the littlest helpers. Here are a few fun ways to Pack-a-Sack for Ronald McDonald House include your kids when giving back in the Sunshine City.

Growing Up Children’s Boutique and Sunshine City Kids are Babycycle teaming up for their second annual Pack-a-Sack for the Ronald Babycycle, south Pinellas County’s only diaper bank, is always McDonald House on Friday, December 20th and Saturday, December looking for volunteers. Duties for kids ages 5 and up and adults 21st. Families with kids of any age are invited to bring snack donations include counting inventory, wrapping diapers and organizing/sorting and decorate and fill paper bags to be delivered to the Ronald items. Email Jillia Koger, Babycycle’s Director, at jillia.babycyclefl@ McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay. Register for a volunteer shift by visiting Growing Up’s website at www.growingupstpete.com. gmail.com to schedule a shift for your family.

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Volunteers help packa-sack for Ronald McDonald House

Radius Church’s Thanksgiving Project

In partnership with Hungry for a Day, Radius Church is setting a goal of feeding 250 local families in need this Thanksgiving. Volunteers of any age are needed on Sunday, November 18th to sort and pack food donations to assemble into Thanksgiving meal kits. These meals (turkey included!) will be delivered to families by volunteers on Monday, November 19th. Email Blake Clark, Radius’s lead pastor, at blake@radchurch.com to help out with assembly or delivery.

Sea Turtle Trackers

Volunteers of all ages can assist Sea Turtle Trackers, a 100% volunteer run organization, by walking the beaches early in the morning to find and report sea turtle tracks to staff. If mornings don’t work for your family, join the “Hole Patrol” in the evenings by filling holes in the sand to help keep sea turtles safe. Visit Sea Turtle Tracker’s website at www.seaturtletrackers.org to join their team.

St. Pete Eco Village

St. Pete Eco-Village hosts a Volunteer Day and Open House every Wednesday and Sunday from 9am to 2pm. Volunteers of any age can work in the community garden while enjoying in-season fruits and vegetables. Find more information at www.ecovillage-stpete.org.

St. Petersburg Free Clinic

Gather a group of friends to volunteer at the St. Petersburg Free Clinic. Groups can help out in the clinic on weekdays or Saturday mornings by sorting donations and packing snack bags for the Packa-Sack program. Kids of any age can volunteer when accompanied by a parent. Call the clinic at 727-821-1200 to schedule a date.

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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Pour Taproom

Thinkin’ Drinkin’: Why You Need Trivia This Month & Where to Find it

By Erin Cody

‘Tis the season of family togetherness - and all of the drama that can come with it. We tend to choose friends who are similar to ourselves, which can make for great dinner parties but disappointing trivia nights.

When it comes to trivia, varied interests are what make a power team, and you’ll never have a team with such a range of interests as when the whole family is in town!

You may be chock-full of knowledge when it comes to, say, music, movies, and history, but at a loss when it comes to sports, literature, geography or millenial pop culture. That’s where your father-in-law, Great Aunt Francine, and college-aged cousins come in. Embrace your mixed interests by putting together a well-rounded trivia team this month and kicking some booty! A little family bonding is just what you could use before or after sitting down to a holiday meal, no?

Pour Taproom

You can’t go wrong with Pour Taproom. The Downtown haunt bills itself as “a beer & wine festival every day of the week,” as you pay for drinks by the ounce, not the glass. You’ll undoubtedly find something for even the pickiest of relatives here. Expand your palate while challenging your mind! They boast one heck of a drink selection and a beer garden feel. Pour’s weekly trivia takes place on Wednesday evenings at 7:30pm, and they’ll knock 15 percent off your tab after the game ends.

Right Around the Corner - Arcade Brewery

Right Around the Corner hosts popular trivia nights every Thursday at 7pm. It is dog-friendly, you’ll enjoy free popcorn, and you can even get trivia hints shortly ahead of time via the bar’s Facebook page. Best of all, you can arrive early (or stick around late) to enjoy the

plethora of games they have available, both new and old-school. Rest assured, this arcade bar has a friendly neighborhood feel, unlike some others that have a “frat bro” energy to ‘em. The whole family will fit right in at Right Around the Corner.

Flying Boat Brewing Co.

Want to show off your specific pop culture knowledge? Themed trivia nights give you just the opportunity you’ve been looking for.

Flying Boat Brewing Co. hosts weekly trivia nights on Wednesdays at 7pm, and specifically-themed ones on the first and third Wednesdays of the month. Past topics have included Pirates and the ever-popular sitcom “Friends.” Follow ‘em on Facebook to see what’s coming up. This month’s themes are “Game of Thrones” n’ Cartoons! Prizes range from $10-$30 in Flying Boat Bucks.

Ferg’s Sports Bar

Sports bars aren’t generally my cup of tea, but Ferg’s reeled me in with their epic themed trivia events. Their regular trivia nights are Mondays and Thursdays at 7pm, but on special occasions they do Tuesday night games, as is the case with their upcoming Harry Potter Trivia on Tuesday, Nov. 13. They’ve also hosted “Seinfeld” and Halloween-themed games, so keep an eye out for these special events!

Any trivia night at Ferg’s will score you free popcorn, and you can win up to $30 in Ferg’s Bucks.

Think, drink, and bond with your family over trivia this holiday season! You’ll be assured at least an hour’s respite from talk of politics, religion, and crazy Uncle Jim’s poor life choices. I’ll raise a glass to that!

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Photo by Tony Sica

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.

The owners of Mazzaro’s Italian Market and Annata are at it again! Alto Mare Fish Bar will be opening next door to Annata at 300 Beach Dr NE #124 (formerly The Infused Tea Company). Alto Mare will offer dishes showcasing locally-sourced fish as well as fish from the Northeastern and Northwestern United States. Depending on the season, diners will be treated to a menu of crudos, oysters, clams, mussels, lobster, snow crab, tuna belly, uni and more. Vegetarian and meat options will also be available. The beverage menu will be catered towards drinks that pair well with seafood, such as white wines, champagnes and beer. Alto Mare has decided to take full advantage of being located next to Annata. The two restaurants will share Executive Chef, Joshua Breen, and Sommelier/General Manager, Rene Hernandez.

As Downtown St. Pete grows in popularity, it’s vital that our transportation system continues to evolve as well. In October, the Downtown Looper implemented new and exciting changes to their trolley service. In addition to adding an all-electric bus to its fleet, the Looper dropped their 50 cent fee and rolled out both an expanded route and extended hours. The new route increases the number of stops from 15 to 20, adding new stops in the Innovation District. The Looper will continue to run every 15 minutes, but now at the following expanded hours — Monday to Thursday 7am to 10pm, Friday 7am to midnight, Saturday 8am to midnight, and Sunday 8am to 10pm. Visit loopertrolley.com for more information.

A new weekly night market launched last month in the EDGE District of Downtown St Pete. The Royal Palm Market is held every Thursday night from 6pm until late in a beautiful lot next to Intermezzo

Coffee and Cocktails that is covered in crushed shell, string lights, sail shades and over fifteen 30-foot royal palm trees. The market aims to attract vendors who are in-between conceiving a business idea and signing a lease for a brick and mortar location. Each week will see around 30 vendors, but that number is expected to grow as the market gains in popularity. While vendors will rotate week-to-week, the first few weeks of the market featured smoked meats, edible cookie dough, an ice cream truck, a photo booth inside of an old VW bus, graphic designers, artists, illustrators, jewelers, plants, and much more. So enjoy some live music, do a little shopping, grab a cocktail at Intermezzo, and celebrate the end of the week every Thursday at the Royal Palm Market!

Dr. BBQ opened to much fanfare last month at 1101 1st Avenue South in the EDGE District. The new smokehouse gets its name from award-winning pitmaster and Food Network star Ray “Dr. BBQ” Lampe, who has partnered with co-owners Roger and Suzanne Perry of the popular Tampa brunch gastropub, Datz. The menu features dishes influenced by barbecue techniques seen not only across the country, but also across the globe. Diners can expect a range of flavors, including sauces like Korean gochujang and North African harissa. The 200-seat restaurant is massive, a whopping 9,000 square feet spanning two floors and set in a former steel-casting factory. Due to overwhelming demand, Dr. BBQ has been experiencing long wait times, so we recommend calling ahead before you arrive.

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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Toddler yoga with Body Electric Yoga Company

Events Toddler Yoga

When: Saturday Nov 10th from 9am - 9:45am (second Saturday of every month) Where: Body Electric Yoga Company, 3015 7th Street North Cost: $8 per kiddo Introduce your toddler to breathing, stretching, story-time, coloring and yoga postures. Ages: 1-4 years. Visit thebodyelectricyoga.com.

The Last Goodbye Virtual Reality Experience

When: Everyday 10am - 4pm through January 16th 2019 Where: The Florida Holocaust Museum, 55 5th St S Cost: Included with Museum Admission Take a virtual reality tour through a concentration camp, featuring survivor Pinchas Gutter’s visit to the site of the Nazi death camp Majdanek in Poland. For more info, visit www. flholocaustmuseum.org.

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CraftArt Festival. Photo by City of St. Petersburg.

21st Annual CraftArt Festival

When: Saturday Nov 17th - Sunday 18th; 10am - 4pm each day Where: Outside of Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave Cost: Free Admission More than 120 of the nation’s best contemporary fine craft artists show and sell their creations. There are artist demonstrations (wheel throwing, glass blowing, wood turning), a children’s activity tent, food trucks, wine and craft beer. For more info, visit floridacraftart.org.

Shopapalooza Festival

When: Saturday Nov 17th 10am 5pm; Saturday Nov 24th 10am - 5pm Where: South Straub Park, 198 Bayshore Dr NE Cost: Free Admission Featuring more than 150 local artists, shops and food trucks. For more info, visit www. shopapaloozafestival.com.

Living With Loss Circle When: Sunday Nov 18th from 11am - 12pm Where: Intent Space, 327 11th Avenue N Cost: $16 per person

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To heal, we need ongoing love and support, and space to express ourselves. Join us in a compassionate circle to discuss our experiences in living with loss and how we can overcome challenges while also enjoying a full life. For more info, visit facebook.com/jessandnik.

North Shore Elementary Coffee Pot Turkey Trot When: Thursday Nov 22nd from 7:45am - 9am Where: North Shore Elementary School, 200 35th Avenue NE See pg. 9 for details.

Black Crow Coffee Co. Pop-Up Market

When: Saturday Nov 24th from 11am - 3pm Where: 722 2nd St N Cost: Free Admission Join Black Crow Coffee for their three year anniversary party and first ever full market! Curated market by Indie Flea. Full street closure to shop local vendors, enjoy food and listen to live music. For more info, visit facebook.com/blackcrowcoffeeco.

Brocante Vintage Market When: Saturday Dec 1st

Holiday Lights in the Gardens Where: Historic Old Northeast See pg. 7 for details.

from 9am - 7pm; Sunday Dec 2nd from 9am - 5pm Where: 2200 2nd Ave S Cost: Free Admission Vintage market with multiple vendors. For more info, visit brocantemarket.com.

St. Petersburg Opera Guild 53rd Annual Silver Bells Fundraiser

Photos with Santa at Crescent Lake

When: Saturday Dec 1st from noon - 3pm Where: Crescent Lake Park, 1320 5th St N See pg. 14 for details.

Sunken Gardens 3rd Annual Jingle Mingle

When: Thursday Dec 6th from 6pm - 8:30pm Where: Sunken Gardens, 1825 4th St N Cost: Tickets $50 each Hors d’oeuvres with complimentary beer and wine. To purchase tickets, visit www.facebook. com/SunkenGardensForever/.

HONNA 21st Annual Candlelight Tours of Homes When: Sunday, Dec 9th

When: Friday Dec 7th starting at 11am Where: St. Petersburg Yacht Club, 11 Central Ave Cost: Tickets are $100 per person Hosted by WUSF’s news anchor Susan Giles Wantuck, featuring holiday entertainment led by Maestro Mark Sforzini, with guest artists from the St. Petersburg Opera plus a small orchestra. To receive an invitation, contact Ursula Carroll (727) 367-9289.

Holiday Lights in the Gardens

When: Nov 23rd - Dec 30th starting daily at 5:30pm Where: Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Rd. Cost: $4 suggested donation Over 1 million LED lights shining throughout the gardens highlighting plants in nature-themed or holiday-themed light displays.

For more info, visit www.flbg.org/ annual-events.htm.

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

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