From the Bench

The Florida Holocaust Museum is located at 55 5th St S. For hours visit www.flholocaustmuseum.org. Photo by City of St. Petersburg

A note from the Publishers

If you find yourself wondering how this year could be more than half over already, you’re not alone.

As a monthly publication manned by a small team, it’s difficult for us to respond to the latest news in real time. Instead, we put a lot of planning into our stories. Most are scheduled months in advance and submitted weeks before we go to print. Sometimes, though, what we have planned becomes relevant in ways we couldn’t imagine.

This issue features holocaust survivor, volunteer, and philanthropist, Lisl Schick (pg. 9). We also dive into the history of the founding Jewish community here in St. Pete (pg. 6). As these articles were wrapping up, the Florida Holocaust Museum was vandalized with a painted swastika. At the time of publication, the St. Petersburg Police Department is still investigating this hate crime. It illustrates how important Lisl’s story and the work of the Florida Holocaust Museum are, then, and especially now. We hope you take a moment to read, get inspired, and maybe even share these stories with a friend or neighbor.

Tony and Ashley Sica Publishers / Owners

We’ve got tons of food for you this issue (pg. 14-19)! Lots of local businesses (Downtown Developments by St. Pete Rising will be back next month!), plus events you don’t want to miss (pg. 22-23)—like Christmas in July, the Sunrise Sale, and PAVA’s cool art show!

Till next time,

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.