Green Bench Monthly - Vol 4, Issue 8, August 2019

VOL. 4, ISSUE 8, AUGUST 2019

St. Pete’s Direct-Mail Community Magazine

St. Pete Is Going To The Dogs pg. 13 Look forward to these

Museum Exhibits pg. 6

The Resurgence Of

Downtown Office Space pg. 10

Raising Locals

What’s In Our Lunch Box pg. 18

Publishers

Ashley & Tony Sica

Advertising Sales Eileen Brock

Editors

Rui Farias, Marilyn Malara, Mary Jane Park, Cathy Weisberg

Contributors

Angelica - Baybes Who Brunch, Andy Bragg, Marilyn Malara, Tina Stewart Brakebill, Tara Britton, Vandi Carmella, Erin Cody, Rui Farias, Denielle Kennett, Connor Storch, Brian Zucker

Photographers Brian Brakebill, Kristina Holman, Brooke DeMartino, Kelly Nash Cover Photo At the Dog Bar, 2300 Central Ave

by Brooke DeMartino.

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

Proud member of:

From the Bench It’s hard to believe it’s back-to-school already. Don’t forget to Stuff the Bus—a school supplies donation drive benefiting children in need in Pinellas County Schools—Friday, August 16th from 8am to 2pm in front of the old police station at 1300 1st Ave N. See events on pg. 30 for a list of needed supplies.

We had fun picking out photos for this issue. Check out the aerial drone shots on pg. 10—St. Pete is growing! And of course we can never get enough of the pups (pg. 13). Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @greenbenchmonthly for extra photos we didn’t have space to run in print.

Thanks to all of our loyal readers for referring their favorite businesses to advertise with us. We’re currently offering end of summer advertising specials. Dozens of local businesses advertise with us because they love their results! Email us for details.

Till next time,

In This Issue:

hello@greenbenchmonthly.com 14 The SIMMS Team: Your Community Realtors®

16 Step Inside St. Pete: Historic Kenwood

24 Movers and Makers: Make Your Mark

18 Raising Locals: What’s in Our Lunch Box

28 Rosé is officially the wine of summer

10 The Resurgence of Downtown Office Space

20 Children’s Dream Fund: Where No Dream is Too Big

29 Downtown Developments

13 St. Pete Is Going To The Dogs

22 Monika’s Cleaning: “A Truly First Class Business”

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From the Museum’s Archives

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Museum Exhibits To Look Forward To!

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Green Bench Monthly Is Directmailed to 15,500 homes and businesses in zip codes 33701, 33704 & 33713. Neighborhoods included in our mailing: Allendale, Crescent Heights, Crescent Lake, Downtown, Euclid-St. Paul, Five Points, Greater Woodlawn, Historic Kenwood, Historic Old Northeast, Magnolia Heights, North East Park, Snell Isle, & Woodlawn

Coffee Pot Bayou. Photo by City of St. Petersburg.

People of St. Pete: Germain Powers

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26 Baybes Who Brunch: It’s a Brewtiful Life

30 Events

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St. Petersburg High School Opened in 1911

From the Museum’s Archives With St. Petersburg Museum of History Executive Director, Rui Farias Pinellas County students return to school later this month to find renovated classrooms, or possibly even new surroundings as they graduate to the next level. In 1894 and 1911, St. Petersburg students walked into two brand new schools. Located on 5th Street North between 1st and 2nd Avenues, the Graded School opened in 1894 to multiple grade levels. As our student population grew, a high school was needed, and in 1911 St. Petersburg High School

Original Graded School opened in 1894

opened its doors at 150 5th Street, adjacent to the Graded School. It wouldn’t be long for the city to outgrow that campus and a new St. Pete High would open around the corner on Mirror Lake Drive in 1919. The 1911 building later became St. Petersburg Junior College.

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

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Robert Bateman, Carmanah Contrast. Courtesy of The James Museum.

The James Museum

Karen Hackenberg, Have an Ice Day. Courtesy of The James Museum.

Museum Exhibits To Look Forward To!

By Erin Cody St. Petersburg has a plethora of fantastic museums, most of which you already know and love. Each has its own permanent collection, as well as exhibitions that come and go. There are some brilliant exhibits mounted at the moment, but I’d like to focus on those which are to come in the next few months. Something to look forward to!

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Opening just last year, the James Museum of Western and Wildlife Art is the new kid on the block. Their upcoming show, “Environmental Impact II,” on view 8/24-12/1, will likely be of particular interest to us locals. The display of sculptures and paintings spotlights environmental issues, highlighting the consequences of human interaction with nature. Don’t worry, it isn’t all doom and gloom. The folks at the James hope patrons will “discover the fragility and hopeful resiliency of our world.”

During the month of September you may also visit the James’ exhibition, “Florida Shines On: PARC Artists.” The Inspired Artist Studios @ PARC is a career advancement initiative for artists of any age with intellectual and developmental disabilities who wish to participate in the creative industry.

The Museum of Fine Arts The Museum of Fine Arts has a particularly neat show on the horizon entitled “The Grasshopper and The Ant, and Other Stories.”

The installation, by Jennifer Angus, will run from 10/12/19 to 1/5/20.

Inspired by Aesop’s fable of the same name, this neo-Victorian artist will challenge your expectations by incorporating large, brightlycolored insects into elaborate, 19th century-inspired patterns. Yes, you read that correctly - fancy bug art!

The Dali Museum You may already have visited the Dalí Museum to see “Before Dalí: Goya installation, Visions & Inventions,” but that was only

Beach at South Mole, St. Petersburg. Photo courtesy of the City of St. Petersburg

Detail from Arranging Nature exhibition, Jack Olsen Gallery, Northern Illinois University, Dekalb, IL (January 18 – February 28, 2013) Courtesy of the Museum of Fine Art.

the first of a two-part exhibition of creations by revered late eighteenth and early nineteenth century artist, Francisco José de Goya y Lucientes. The first installment, “Los Caprichos,” is on view through 9/15, at which point it will make way for round two. “La Tauromaquia,” a collection of prints depicting bullfighting on the Iberian Peninsula, will open on 9/21 and run through 12/1.

On 12/7, fashion will reign at the Dalí. A special exhibit featuring photographs of garments created by aspiring local high school fashion designers who have concluded the 12-week Fashion Design at The Dalí program will be on display through 1/5/20.

The Florida Holocaust Museum Finally, strap in for a dark, fascinating, local story in photographs as “Beaches, Benches and Boycotts: The Civil Rights Movement in Tampa Bay” premieres at the Florida Holocaust Museum. Though this area may not always feel like the South, Tampa Bay remained racially segregated throughout much of the Civil Rights era, and many local institutions even avoided integration for years after it was courtordered. This exhibition, running from 9/7/19-9/1/20, will spotlight our region’s fight for racial equality, and present the local leaders who pushed for change.

Employees of the Kress lunch counter in St. Petersburg close the counter during a sit-in on February 11, 1960.

Image Courtesy of the Tampa Bay Times.

On display at the Florida Holocaust Museum 9/7/19-9/1/20.

I don’t know about you, but I am incredibly excited about every single one of these upcoming exhibitions! We should be very proud to live in a city that supports such vibrant, varied installations in our museums. Get out there and show ‘em some love!

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Photo by Brian Brakebill

People of St. Pete: Germain Powers

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

In appreciation of the vital role played by our public schools, we’re talking to Germain Powers. Beginning in 2011 as a part-time maintenance worker, he rose quickly and in 2015 became the head of operations at Woodlawn Elementary, Powers is charged with ensuring that the school’s facilities and grounds are safe, clean, and well maintained so that staff and students can work and learn in a positive environment. Powers is proud of the work he does as a member of the Pinellas County Schools.

From Savannah to Tampa: A Flight Delay Changes Everything Born in 1982 and raised in Savannah, Powers took an indirect path to St. Petersburg. At nearly 6 feet 4 inches, Powers looks like an athlete.

As a self-described “geek,” he devoted his teenage years to building computers, playing video games and experimenting with graphic design. As the oldest son of a single mother, he skipped college and went to work full-time after high school to help support the family. His mother’s 2007 decision to reunite with his father and move to Tampa changed Powers’ life. Set to return to Savannah after a short visit to Tampa, he was on a plane in which a faulty seat belt forced a flight delay.

The postponement clearly was a sign. He wasn’t happy in Savannah.

Plus, he wanted to be closer to his mother, so he stayed.

From Tampa to St. Pete: Love Leads For the next few years, Powers’ life in Tampa resembled his time in Savannah. “I worked, slept and took care of my parents,” he said.

As his 30th birthday approached, he pushed himself to be more social by joining an online dating service. Soon after, his very first match messaged him. Initially unable to respond with more than a “wink” because of his membership level, he made another fateful decision. He splurged on an upgrade that enabled him to chat. That led to a first date, where he set out to “wow” her with dinner and dessert at Bern’s.

That date led to a second and then a third. By the end of the month, it was clear: They were in love. Christina was (and is) a public-school teacher in St. Pete, so Powers relocated, and they soon married. Eight years later, they’re expecting their first child.

“If I didn’t have my music …”

Life can be stressful. Even if you know your job is important and you love your family, the responsibilities can be heavy. For 20 years, Powers has used music to escape. “If I didn’t have my music I’d probably be crazy,” he said. But Powers doesn’t just listen to music, he creates it. In the late 1990s, new software allowed users to record, edit, and produce audio files.

Powers was immediately hooked. Blending his love of music with his love of computers, he could use technology to produce instrumental tracks.

It was “better than any game,” he said. Today, he has taken this love to the next step by selling his original hip hop and R&B “beats” under the professional brand of Mayno Beatz. No one knows exactly what the future holds, but Powers knows music will be a big part of his. If a Grammy win is in that future, remember you heard his name here first! Follow him on Instagram and/or Twitter @MaynoBeatz for updates and his original music (beats) can be purchased via his website at maynobeatz.com.

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Aerial shot looking over UPC’s future 150,000 sf headquarters at 800 1st Ave S. Photos by Bronson Cheeks.

The Resurgence of Downtown Office Space

by Andy Bragg Downtown St. Pete office space is finally growing. Co-working and mixed-use buildings are coming online and larger projects are planned on city-controlled lots stretching west.

Demand is strong due to the economy and downtown’s renowned walkability. The city is creatively negotiating with developers to increase office space, which has been flat since the Great Recession.

More office space could help complete Mayor Rick Kriseman’s live-

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work-play vision, increase high paying jobs, diversify the economy and attract growing companies and all they bring to the community.

Taking Inventory The existing office towers are thriving, at least 90% occupied with $30 per square foot rental rates. They have been extensively renovated to appeal to millennial workers, technology firms, coworking providers and relocations. Companies including Dynasty Financial and L3 Technologies have recently chosen to move their headquarters to downtown. Technology companies now occupy 15% of downtown office space. St. Pete’s Grow Smarter Strategy targets growth in industries including financial services and data analytics.

But the near-term demand for new office space will be met by venues other than traditional office towers near the water. The seemingly unlimited market for residential towers with dramatic views, and lately for mid-sized hotels as well, has driven up land prices. Labor and material costs have also increased. Mack Feldman, VP of Feldman Equities which owns three of the office towers, estimates rates of at least $45 psf would be required to justify a large new speculative office building in the downtown core. Bank financing for such buildings requires pre-leasing commitments and tenants in St. Pete are relatively small and not likely to commit years in advance of occupancy.

4th St N looking towards Tropicana Field.

Coming Soon Several co-working locations have launched downtown recently. Marketing technology start-up iSOCRATES moved from Connecticut to the Rising Tide co-working offices in an adapted older building on Central Avenue’s 400 Block and expects to grow to 50 employees in the near future.

A 28,000 square foot building on 4th St. North across from Williams Park is being renovated to open late this year as a WorkLodge co-working venue. Franchisee Dan McLean expects it to house 90 businesses with almost 300 employees plus 100 members using a 3,000 sf open workspace. There will be a training area, conference rooms and an event space. WorkLodge has found companies appreciate the convenience of scalable furnished spaces and shortterm leases while workers benefit from networking interaction with others in a variety of industries.

Nearby, Wannemacher Jensen Architects (WJA) has broken ground on a 38,000 sf mixed use building including office, condos and retail on Mirror Lake. WJA principal Jason Jensen supports dense development of mixed-use buildings to efficiently and sustainably enhance city life. With ride-share, walking and biking to work he expects the city’s parking capacity requirements to be reduced.

The highly anticipated Red Apple Group development at the two-acre Central Ave. 400 Block site is expected to feature a condominium tower but the city expects the project will also include at least 25,000 sf of office space.

City Development Administrator Alan DeLisle estimates publicprivate partnerships will add more than 400,000 sf of office space in the next few years. Three sites described below could comprise over 75% of this total.

A 25-story mixed-use tower including at least 40,000 sf of office space has been approved at the corner of 1st Ave. N and 5th St. The DeNunzio Group agreed to purchase the .65 acre Christ United Church parking lot for $5.3 million. The city partnered in the project by agreeing to purchase approximately $9 million in parking garage space in the building.

Moving west to more open territory, UPC Insurance plans to

build a 150,000 sf headquarters at 800 1st Ave. S. The city owns that 4.6 acre lot and approved UPC’s $5 million offer over a higher bid by an apartment developer in order to ensure office growth. UPC proposes to add 300 jobs at the site as well as to add a hotel, retail space and large parking garage.

Looking to The Edge District St. Pete is also requiring new office space to be a major component of proposals for the 2-acre old police headquarters lot at Central Ave. and 13th St. in the booming Edge District. The city has received several mixed-use proposals which include up to 150,000 sf of office space.

Of course the nearby Tropicana Field site has immense potential for offices and everything else if the economy cooperates once the Rays’ fate is decided. The stars may be aligned uniquely for the citycontrolled property bordered by the Pinellas Trail with Booker Creek running through it. The city has developed master plans for the site both with and without a baseball stadium.

The site’s 86-acre area is 70% larger than the Water Street Tampa mixed-use project which is expected to include two million square feet of office space – roughly the total current office space in downtown St. Pete. But architect Jensen recommends that an “arms race” with Tampa be avoided, “The city has been talking about sequential development with the texture of a typical city and cohesive with surrounding communities.”

The Big Picture As office space expands one can envision a balanced live-workplay downtown stretching from the Pier to Tropicana Field and beyond with increased work opportunities for residents throughout the area.

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Dog Bar, 2300 Central Ave. Photo by Brooke DeMartino.

St. Pete is Going To The Dogs

by Erin Cody For years, St. Pete has been recognized by real estate sites like Zumper, resources like Bring Fido, and major corporations like Mars, as one of the most pet-friendly cities in the country. Of course, we locals already knew that! To lock in this status, the city has recently launched its St. Pete PAWS program, seeking to ensure that the ‘burg is a place where our fuzzy friends are healthy, happy, and enthusiastically welcomed.

There are a great many venues around town where you can spend your free time with man’s best friend. Parks and beaches, as well as numerous bars and restaurants, offer stellar service to both humans and their furry companions. The following are just a few, but make sure to keep an eye on the Mayor’s Pet-Friendly Business Program that’s in the works for even more great options that are certifiably suited for Rocky, Spot, and Bingo.

What Makes a Venue Pet-Friendly?

What makes a bar or restaurant particularly welcoming to pups and their owners? Ashley Pearl, owner and founder of local dog walking and pet sitting business, Paws & Relax, believes, “Having multiple water bowls with fresh water is important. If it’s an outdoor area, as pups are generally not allowed indoors due to health codes, there should be a shaded section where dogs (and humans) can get away from the sun.

And let’s not forget the most important thing - waste bags. Although pet

owners should bring their own bags to pick up after their animals, some might forget. A venue can have some waste bag dispensers at the entrance to ensure that cleanup goes smoothly.”

One of Pearl’s favorites is Three Birds Tavern which meets all the above criteria and more. “The staff always provides fresh water and, from time to time, treats for the pups. They don’t just allow dogs, they love them! Plus their food is always great and the service is super-friendly.”

A few others folks mentioned as great options to enjoy with their canine companions were The Queenshead, The Chattaway, Urban Brew & BBQ, and Bella Brava. Of course, no list of venues for doggy lovers would be complete without the Dog Bar! They not only offer all the perks you would expect, but also have an optional separate section for smaller dogs to enjoy, and special events like themed parties, adoption days, and a dance party every Friday night.

No Pupper? No Problem!

Want to get in on the action, but don’t have a pup of your own?

Local shelter, Friends of Strays, has the perfect option for you. Their Doggy Day Out program allows you to take a dog at the shelter on a field trip! It’s a wonderful way to get to know an awesome animal and to give them a break from the shelter. Outings can be short as an hour or last a full day, and options can include a trip to the beach, a nice long walk, playing and relaxing at home, or perhaps a visit to one of the venues listed above! Anyone over the age of 18 is welcome to join in the fun. No training or orientation is necessary, and the staff will provide everything you’ll need for your adventure. Stop by the shelter or check online for more details and to sign up.

I hope you’ll enjoy these wonderful pet-friendly spots this summer - whether or not you have your own fuzz ball at home. Stay cool, have fun, and enjoy all the perks of this awesome city we call home!

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The SIMMS Team Left to right: Rob Simms, Amy Dinovo, Tami Simms, and Sharon Simms. Photos by Kristina Holman.

The SIMMS Team: Your Community Realtors®

By Tina Stewart Brakebill The SIMMS Team is a local, family-run real estate team within the Coastal Properties Group. Headed by Sharon Simms, the team is rounded out by son Rob Johnson, daughter Tami Simms, and surrogate daughter Amy Dinovo. The SIMMS Team operates as a cooperative unit rather than competing agents, meaning each client benefits from the totality of the SIMMS Team expertise. As Sharon describes it, every client is “our client” and because they are also a neighbor or a potential neighbor, a quick one-time sale is not their goal. Instead, as their mission statement says, The SIMMS Team strives “to make a significant difference” in their clients’ lives. As Realtors® and St. Pete residents, they also understand that a house isn’t a home unless it’s part of a community, so the SIMMS Team also works tirelessly to support and connect the St. Pete community.

Good Downtown Neighbors The SIMMS Team’s office is located in the heart of beautiful downtown St. Petersburg. They love their neighborhood and are energized by new development, but they also understand that community growth needs to be well-thought-out. As sponsors of Preserve the Burg (PTB) and Keep St. Petersburg Local (KSPL), the SIMMS Team helps to make events like Movies in the Park and Localtopia possible. In turn, those organizations work to protect the

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local businesses and landmarks that are the heart and soul of St. Pete. As members of the Downtown Business Association (DBA), the SIMMS Team supports long-time downtown favorite events like the Annual Sunrise Sale (forty-six years and counting) as well as newer initiatives like the Sunshine Street Team, both of which contribute to downtown’s inviting vibe. In addition, as DBA liaisons to the Central Avenue Council and the Chamber of Commerce, team members also are involved in a wide range of community issues from the revitalization of Central Ave. to the new pier project.

Waterfront Parks Foundation As their involvement with PTB, KSPL, and the DBA demonstrate, the SIMMS Team has long endeavored to help sustain the ongoing renaissance of St. Pete without sacrificing the things that make the ‘Burg special. And, without a doubt, St. Pete’s waterfront is one of those things. Its beauty and recreational offerings enhance everything special about St. Pete. Understanding the vital importance of protecting the waterfront inspired the SIMMS Team to lend their support to the creation of the Waterfront Parks Foundation.

Founded in late 2012, the Downtown Waterfront Parks Foundation’s mission is to “preserve, protect, and promote” the historic waterfront parks. As the Foundation notes, “The residents of

St. Petersburg have been given a family heirloom, a precious gem in the form of our Waterfront Parks, to cherish and maintain… Our Downtown Waterfront Parks need an advocate for their ongoing care and maintenance in order to look and function at their highest potential for all of our residents and visitors. This is why the Downtown Waterfront Parks Foundation was formed.”

In their nearly seven years of advocacy, they have sponsored cleanups and plantings, among other things, while also raising money and awareness through community events like their annual April party, the Champagne Shuffle at St. Pete’s historic Shuffleboard Club.

“Where We Live is Where We Work” To the SIMMS Team, commitment to community is not separate from their role as Realtors®. Being successful in the real estate business offers a chance to establish deeply imbedded roots in a community.

And, in turn, that immersion provides abundant opportunities to demonstrate their commitment by giving back. Tami Simms may have best summed up the SIMMS Team attitude when she shared the words of a fellow real estate agent: “Realtors® aren’t just another job in this community. We ARE this community.” The SIMMS Team takes that commitment very seriously and St. Pete is better for it.

Where Can I Find Out More?

For more information regarding the Waterfront Parks Foundation, visit www.waterfrontparksfoundation.org and for details on the DBA’s work visit www.stpetedowntownbiz.com. Find PTB at www. preservetheburg.org and KSPL at www.keepstpetersburglocal.org If you’re looking for a local family team that will help you find what’s right for YOU then give the SIMMS Team a call at 727-8982582 or visit them in person. Most business days (and by appointment on weekends and holidays) you’ll find them in their office at 238 Beach Drive NE. You can also find more information about the SIMMS Team and their listings online at www.SimmsTeam.com.

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Mark and Susan Croson cheers at their Tiki Bar outside of their home in Historic Kenwood. Photos by Kristina Holman.

Step Inside St. Pete: Historic Kenwood

By Connor Storch Every corner of our city has a story. Step Inside St. Pete is inspired by the impressive architecture & interior design within our beautiful, blooming city of St. Petersburg, Florida. Whether you live in Uptown, Downtown or any district in between, we love every style of St. Pete.

Each month, we’ll show you our city up close and like never before.

For the second chapter of Step Inside St. Pete, we’re crossing over to Susan and Mark Croson’s home, in the northwest streets of Historic Kenwood. Mark works at the local Gulfport Marina and Susan works at our neighborhood Trader Joe’s on 4th St. It’s a Friday morning, and they’ve invited us over for coffee & treats from Fray’s Donut House.

Creativity Lives Here Originally from Maryland, Sue and Mark had a certain feeling when they stepped inside this colonial bungalow back in 2015. Since then, they’ve transformed it into their own tropical paradise. As soon as they moved in, the duo got started on their renovations — building a beautiful fenced yard for their dog, Honey, painting each room a different color, building an outdoor shower, and most recently, creating the tiki hut!

“We’re outdoors people.”

Sue Croson talking about herself and her husband, Mark.

Because Sue works with the Trader Joe’s creative team (every sign is hand painted locally), she is inspired to design each home improvement to be unique. Mark handled the structure and functionality of the tiki

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bar, while Sue painted the entire wall by hand and turned it into a lifelike mural (shoutout to Tyler Beaird for his help throughout the construct as well!). Another standout piece in their home is the iconic Key West wooden signs they’ve created and personalized to destinations they’ve actually traveled to, customizing each sign to match their memories. If something wasn’t made by Mark & Sue, it was bought locally at vintage stores like Vintage Modern St. Pete, Deja Vu and so many more.

The Happy Home Whether it’s a public “Porch Party” or a private “luau” with the Crosons, it’s important to step inside someone’s home to get the entire look and feel. If you look closely at the details, you’ll notice each room is centered around one piece of art that comes from the non-profit, PARC, a local organization that looks at people with developmental disabilities as people with capabilities empowering them to live life to the fullest. Sue and Mark’s paintings of birds and sea creatures by underprivileged artists enrich their space with finer art and meaning.

Sue and Mark’s bungalow is not only beautiful, it is joyful. Besides the décor, each room is filled with games and activities for everyone to enjoy. Get ready to grab a ukelele or rattle next time you’re at their oasis! Thanks to Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe on Central Ave., we brought a bottle of bubbles to celebrate the couple’s 40th anniversary year.

Cheers to Susan and Mark Croson on creating their dream home in St. Pete and sharing it with all of us!

If you’re proud of your space, we want to see it. Email hello@ greenbenchmonthly.com at least three (3) pictures of your home or business and the name of your neighborhood district. Please include Step Inside St. Pete in the email’s subject line. Selections will be made to show homes and businesses that highlight the diversity of design here in St. Pete.

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Lunch Ideas. Photo by Vandi Carmella.

Raising Locals: What’s in Our Lunch Box

By Vandi Carmella and Denielle Kennett From backpacks and clothes to school supplies and reformed bedtimes, there’s a lot to prepare before the kids head back to school on August 14th. And if your child prefers a meal from home over what his or her school is serving, then add in the stress of planning nutritious lunches that he will actually eat (and that isn’t a PB&J every day of the week).

The good news? Lunches definitely don’t have to be boring — or time-consuming — to be healthy. Spruce up any packed lunch with cool bento boxes, your kid’s favorite fresh ingredients, and parentapproved foods. See our lunch prep goals as we gear up for a new school year.

Meet the Moms Denielle has a full-time job and is a mom to two kids ages 3 and 1. Her goal is to create delicious, healthy dinners with very little effort that can also double as lunch when needed or be slightly altered to create an entirely new meal with little prep work. The struggle is pleasing two children with completely different eating habits while on a tight timeline.

Vandi is a stay-at-home mom to two public school kids ages 7 and 4. She usually starts each school year with the best of intentions.

Initially super organized and on top of it all, her school lunch

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inspiration dies down once the back-to-school excitement expires.

Her goal is to keep the kids’ lunches fresh and fun without burning out by the end of the year.

The Lunch Plan Mix it Up — Use different types of breads and meats or sandwich spreads; everyone gets tired of the same sandwich day after day. Most kids love wraps and bagels, too. Other ideas include veggie pinwheels and hummus pitas.

Think Outside the Sandwich — Make homemade “lunchables” with whole wheat crackers and whatever cheese and other toppings you have on hand. Anything on a quesadilla or taco is usually a hit.

Even muffins, yogurt, or leftover breakfast items like waffles and pancakes make great lunches.

Include Leftovers — Crockpot meals, pastas, and beans left over from dinner can taste great in a lunch the next day. You can even reheat soup before school and send it in a thermos to keep it warm until lunch.

Let the Kids Help — Give your children a little control by letting them choose foods, either at the store or at home, to include in their lunchbox and, depending on their age or skill level, engage them in the preparation.

Shopping at Trader Joe’s. Photo by Denielle Kennett.

Choose a Great Lunch Container — Bento-style containers are great because the lunches are visible and ready to eat when the kids open them. This type of container also avoids plastic bag waste and makes lunch packing more fun. Reusable snack bags from Sans Market are another great alternative to plastic sandwich bags in the lunch box.

Where to Shop Denielle is a Trader Joe’s enthusiast, while Vandi is a fan of Rollin’ Oats. Occasional trips to Publix and Target fill in the snack gaps but both find their first picks offer the healthiest choices. For fruits and veggies, the Saturday Morning Market and shops like Kenwood Organic Produce are a great option for fresh and local finds.

A Recipe from Healthy St. Pete The best way to incorporate healthy foods into your children’s diets is to have them help with the preparation. Kids love to make “zoodles” with zucchinis, and these fun noodles don’t even need to be cooked! Perfect for kids who love veggies, and those who love pasta salads. Substitute the zucchini for noodles, add a few other vegetables, a light dressing and you are done! Throw in a freezer pack with this salad into your child’s lunchbox and wait for the rave reviews after school. Visit http://www.healthystpetefl.com/pdf/FreshRec-Stop-Recipe-LIME-VINAIGRETTE-ZOODLE.pdf to view the recipe! Check out Healthy St. Pete’s website for more recipes and healthy eating ideas. Healthy St. Pete is the wellness initiative of the City of St. Petersburg, the mission is to build a culture of health in our city by making the healthy choice the easy choice.

Vandi and Denielle are the moms behind Sunshine City Kids, an online resource for all things kid-friendly in St. Petersburg.

Follow the Sunshine City Kids at www.sunshinecitykids.com.

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Left: Gavin, 7. Right: Antonesha, 10. Photos courtesy of Children’s Dream Fund.

Children’s Dream Fund: Where No Dream is Too Big

By Marilyn Malara In 1981, business leaders from the Sunshine City Jaycees banded together to help an 8-year-old with the aging disease progeria make his dream come true: He wanted to meet Pinocchio. Soon afterward, they decided to continue granting wishes, and eventually the Children’s Dream Fund was born.

Headquartered in downtown St. Petersburg, the organization works throughout West Central Florida to organize and make dreams come true for those ages 3-21 at critical times in their lives, aiming to lift the spirits of each child and their families. No wish is too big or too small, nor must children be deemed terminally ill to qualify.

Serving Kids Close By Since its inception, the Children’s Dream Fund has grown to serve thousands of sick children who live or are being treated in and around the West Coast of Florida. It is able to meet the needs of any children referred by area hospitals.

Children’s Dream Fund works with children being treated at St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital, Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, Sabal Palms Health Care Center, Moffitt Cancer Center and Tampa General Hospital, to name a few. Kids are also referred to the program by doctors, nurses, family members, social workers and friends.

Whether it’s a trip to the popular Give the Kids the World Village in Orlando or a flight to see the Northern Lights, no dream is too big, or too small.

“Kids just think of the wildest things in the world,” marketing and

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communications director Stephanie Mitchell said.

CDF children are honored at Celebration of Life parties before they set off on their adventures, receive their special gifts or meet their heroes. All appropriate dream-related expenses are covered by donations from individual and corporate donors, memorial gifts, estate gifts, grants, the charity’s Share the Dream and Kids Who Care Programs, and special events such as the annual Rays On the Runway event in July.

Making the Dream Work Part of the goal, Mitchell said, is to give respite and the anticipation of something fun to youngsters who are worn out by frequent hospital visits, medication and worry. “It’s a break for the whole family,” she said.

“So many times, I’ve seen how a dream has lifted the spirits of a sick child,” she said. “Just the opportunity to start thinking of a dream brightened them up so much.”

The Dream Fund staff and about 200 volunteers continuously work together throughout the year. From connecting with dream children, creating Celebration of Life baskets, organizing parties to planning every detail of a dream, there is always something to do to give children what many call their “best day ever!”

“We couldn’t do what we do without our volunteers,” Mitchell says. She herself started with CDF as a volunteer. The organization is always looking to connect with locals willing to donate time, whether in the office or at events.

Connect with Children’s Dream Fund The Children’s Dream Fund is not affiliated with a national organization, nor does it telemarket to raise money. Since the beginning, it has made dreams come true for 3,000 children.

To help make a dream come true, or to volunteer go to childrensdreamfund.org, or call (727) 896-6390. Checks payable to “Children’s Dream Fund” may be mailed to 200 Central Ave., Suite 410, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

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Monika’s Cleaning from Left to Right: Bill (Owner), Cyndie (Manager), Debbie (Supervisor), Monika (owner). Photos by Brooke DeMartino.

Monika’s Cleaning: “A Truly First Class Business”

By Tina Stewart Brakebill When Monika and Bill Turner launched their business, Monika’s Cleaning, they looked to Monika’s childhood in Bavaria for inspiration.

For Monika, German stereotypes about the value of order and an attention to detail are true. Applying this mindset to their company has meant that clients are thrilled with the meticulous cleanings provided

by Monika’s staff. Long-time client, Marti G. noted, “Coming home to a beautifully cleaned home…is one of my favorite things.” But clients also appreciate that rather than being a nearby branch of a national chain, Monika’s Cleaning is a locally owned and operated business. Monika and Bill Turner aren’t faceless strangers found on a random website. They are neighbors. As Marti also shared, “I am grateful to have gotten to know Bill and Monika and am lucky enough to call them my friends.” Clients know them. Clients trust them.

A Growing Community of Clients Monika’s Cleaning is always looking to expand their community of clients. This desire to grow their business, however, has not affected the careful way in which they strive to ensure compatibility between client and cleaner. Each potential customer is provided with an in-house visit and interview. This meet-up offers an opportunity for potential clients and Monika’s Cleaning Service to talk about a variety of things including expectations, possible allergies, special requests (such as the type of cleaning materials used), and scheduling. Monika’s Cleaning then

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creates a cleaning plan to suit a client’s individual needs. Once everyone is satisfied with the specifics, both parties sign a contract detailing the cleaning plan. Regardless of the individual details, however, all clients receive the same level of commitment because Monika’s Cleaning does not cut corners, they scrub them!

A Growing Community of Cleaners Since Monika’s Cleaners launched in 2016, they have steadily grown.

In the company’s early days, Bill and Monika handled the handful of cleaning jobs on their own. Now they have well over one hundred customers and a growing staff of cleaners. These staff additions, however, have not affected Monika’s Cleaning high standards. To ensure that new staff members are a good fit, Monika’s Cleaning adheres to rigid standards.

All potential employees are vetted thoroughly. They are subjected to background checks and drug screenings before they are considered.

And as a final test, they must clean the Turner’s home and meet Monika’s high expectations. This process has ensured a top-notch quality staff that clients can trust.

Happy Clients Monika’s Cleaning has proven its success in a variety of ways. They have a growing number of long-term customers and staff. Their reviews are stellar. A typical recommendation came from long-time customer,

Monika’s Cleaning Teams are trained to clean your home “The German Way” which means getting in those hard to reach corners!

Tara D. “They are truly the best! They have always been professional and reliable. As a consumer it can difficult to navigate through the house cleaning services industry because you are literally inviting people into your home! But Monika and her team are trustworthy, honest and truly a first-class business. Monika cares about her clients…My husband and I are so grateful for Monika, her husband Bill and all their staff!”

Services & Contact Information If you’re looking for “a first-class business” to help clean your home then look no further. Monika’s Cleaning can provide regular scheduled cleanings, move-in and move-out cleans, or one-time special circumstances deep cleanings (such as a visiting in-laws or a celebratory event). Monika’s Cleaning also offers regular discounts for military service and a one-time discount for a new client referral. For more information about joining Monika’s Cleaning as a client or as a cleaner, contact Cynthia Welch, Manager at 727-623-2858 or Debbie Hoffman, Supervisor at 727-623-1802.

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Indie Flea. Photos by Kimberly Rydinsky

Movers and Makers: Make Your Mark Tips for Vendor Success from Market Organizers

by Tara Britton St. Pete is known for its creative community, small business prevalence and local flair. Highlighting all of these Sunshine City qualities are handcraft markets and festivals. Our community embraces the “buy local” initiative and alternative shopping opportunities. But for vendors participating in these events, success isn’t guaranteed.

Two of St. Pete’s most beloved market organizations give tips and tricks for success. Considering their advice could make the difference in taking your hobby to a side hustle, and eventually to a full time dream job. Hear what the market organizers have to say before you hit apply to an upcoming event.

Indie Flea The Indie Flea is known for their recurring markets and themed pop-ups. They happen all over St. Pete, Tampa, Gainesville and more recently, North Carolina.

Founder of Indie Flea, Rosey Williams, urges applicants to consider the uniqueness of their product line. “A maker has a better chance of being a part of our market if they are creating a product that stands apart from what we already have at our markets.” From body care to baked goods, Indie Flea represents truly one-of-a-kind

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products. They “highly value new and creative ways to make and create,” and it doesn’t stop at the products. “We look for handmade product but we also encourage props and signs to be handmade too.”

Another important reminder for potential vendors: Indie Flea vendors must agree to use no single use plastic for their product packaging. They’re looking for vendors who support their ecoinitiative and want to be a part of ocean friendly events. “All packaging must be reusable and eco friendly.”

Find open applications for Indie Flea at theindieflea.com/ become-a-vendor; if applications are closed join the waitlist. If you have specific questions, send them an email at info@theindieflea.com.

Saturday Morning Market The Saturday Morning Market runs every week, October through May, and they also host a smaller summer market. They fill over 130 vendor spaces and boast an estimated 10,000 visitors on a typical Saturday.

Organizer Mark Johnson says their market puts emphasis on the “sense of community among vendors.” They want to support makers interested in getting to know their fellow vendors. The feeling

Saturday Morning Market

of camaraderie “starts before the market begins and feels friendly to vendors and shoppers.” They even encourage their sellers to make referrals to other participating vendors during their market if the opportunity should arise.

Display is another major factor in vendor success. They want vendors that are “constantly improving their products and display,” noting the best vendors are usually the ones still wanting to level up.

Improvements made by one maker affects the whole event, just as “a rising tide lifts all boats.”

Johnson has found “the principal and most important factor is signage that quickly and powerfully conveys what you sell and why it’s unusual.” There’s “a lot of competition for people’s attention at a market,” according to Johnson. He feels most vendors who improve their display have an opportunity to increase sales significantly.

Learn more about the Saturday Morning Market and their requirements for applying to vend by visiting their website at saturdaymorningmarket.com.

Participating as a small business vendor in events like markets and festivals can help grow your brand visibility, improve your product line and hone in on your customer service skills. Consider other great advice from the market organizers themselves, like: getting educated on market rotation policies, collaborating with fellow vendors for contests and cross-promotion, and presenting a strong online presence.

Find more great tips from these leaders in our creative community on our blog at marketmafia.com/blog. Hope to see you vending at a market around town!

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Pineapple Espresso, 3045 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N

It’s a Brewtiful Life

By Angelica, Baybes Who Brunch Summer is setting at warp speed and it’s almost time for school to be back in session for students and teachers alike. As such, I thought “what better way to issue in August than with some caffeinated courage?” Slight disclaimer before we dive in this month: though I am a lover of coffee, tea, and the like, I cannot attest to a spot’s caffeinated coffee options (tea yes, coffee no) as I turn into the energizer bunny on speed when I partake. However, I am a coffee shop connoisseur and love each of these spots in their own right and all for different reasons. Without further ado, let’s get to brewing!

Let’s start with my favorite spot when on-the-go. Pineapple Espresso’s drive-thru makes for the perfect pre-work stop. They definitely have the toast-est with the mostest! My go-to order is the Everything Toast (sourdough with avocado, 6 minute egg, and I sub cherry tomatoes in for the everything spice). With the heat of summer, I love their iced

Craft Kafe, 200 Central Ave

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Black Crow Coffee Co, Old Northeast - 722 2nd St N

Tebella offerings such as their Peach tea or their Mint Julep. However, they also roast their own coffee if that’s your pick-me-up of choice to get the workday started.

The next spot is my favorite spot to get work done. Whether you are a student trying to complete that online class or you like to work on-the-go, Black Crow Coffee Co. is a great neighborhood spot to call home. Though you can usually catch me biking over to their Old Northeast location, they’ve also opened a second spot on Central with a great little garden. I love their Café Dolce treats such as the Purple Haze (with hazelnut and chocolate), as well as their Chai. I dare you to come in without nabbing a treat like this cranberry orange muffin, or the ever-changing vegan donut options from Vegan Sunshine Donuts (my fave is their lavender).

Let’s head downtown to Craft Kafe, self-proclaimed slayers of gluten on the daily. I love hitting this spot on a Saturday and enjoying a few minutes outside in the shade, however an equally appealing, though somewhat hypnotic prospect is taking a minute to get lost watching their Kyoto Drip in the window. If you’re feeling a cold brew, they use Onyx Coffee Lab. I can’t pass up their Green Dream (matcha latte with almond milk and honey) however. Pair with something sweet (a recent fave was the peach betty).

New kid on the block, Blush Tea & Coffee makes the list as my favorite spot I’d like to curl up with a great book. There is something so adorably homey and relaxing about this spot. Just give me an Earl Grey Lavender Cloudy Tea and I’ll be content. Note that they offer non-dairy options such as oat milk for their tea, as well as coffee (from Zeal Coffee Roasters and Eastlick). Mana Bakery provides their baked goods such as this vanilla rose shortbread that acts as a perfect tea-dipping companion.

I’ve got a copy of Beatriz Williams’ newest in hand and a yellow velvet chair calling my name.

Lastly, let’s go to a spot that is great for transitioning from day to night — Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails. Chase your coffee with a cocktail, if you will. On the day side, the iced mint matcha is a refreshing must. Pop into the attached Baum Avenue Market for a rose pistachio bar from Valhalla Bakery. As the sun sets, if you’re still feeling the green tea vibes go with the Sencha Sour (green tea infused Cachaça with lime, chartreuse, agave, and egg white) and oysters from Modern Brine (also located in the attached Baum Market) to cap your day.

Blush Tea & Coffee, 2382 Dr M.L.K. Jr St N

*Please note: some mentioned baked goods will not always be in the case due to a changing menu or items being sold out. Stay up-to-date via instagram to see what’s new!

Intermezzo Coffee & Cocktails and Valhalla Bakery, 1111 Central Ave.

If you can’t wait until September, then check more content out on Instagram or Facebook @baybeswhobrunch or contact me at baybeswhobrunch@gmail.com. In the meantime, if you need me you can find me standing on a barstool or holding my food up to a pretty wall with a camera in my hand around the Bay and beyond!

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Amanda co-owner of Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe shows off Van Duzer Pinot Noir Rosé. Right: limited edition Revolver Death & Glory Rosé.

Photos courtesy of Hawthorne Bottle Shoppe, located at 2927 Central Ave

Rosé is officially the wine of summer

By Erin Cody Rosé is unquestionably the wine of summer...but why? With Rosé festivals and Rosé All Day events abounding, one has to wonder how this once-shunned category of vino has gained such incredible popularity lately and why it is so linked to summertime.

Not Your Granny’s Blush Wine “Rosé is not the ‘sweet’ wine it was originally perceived to be,” states Kelly Rodriguez-Laureano, owner/partner of Lolita’s Wine Market. “Once people began to understand that Rosés can range in complexity and styles, it started to take on a life of its own. It is a much easier transition for a traditional red wine drinker to go to a Rosé to enjoy something cold on a hot summer day, than to a white.”

Rosé has, in fact, always been considered a summer wine - we were just late to get the memo! In France, Rosé is almost exclusively consumed in the summertime, but it really is a great option year-round, especially since we live in such a warm climate. I, myself, adore bubbly, so Brut Rosé, a dry sparkling wine, is a staple in my household. Even my husband loves it, as does my mother who had believed she hated Rosé!

So What is it?

What exactly is a Rosé wine? There are three main ways to make the pink stuff. The most popular is limited skin maceration, meaning that when red grapes are crushed they are left in contact with their skins, but only for a limited amount of time. Then there’s the saignee method in which a winemaker will vinify a red wine, but early in the maceration process, remove some of the juice to ferment separately as a Rosé. Finally, there is simply the blending of white and red wines after they have been

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fermented. This method is so looked down upon that it is actually prohibited for Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) wines in Europe.

Interestingly, the queen of all bubbly, Champagne, is the only exception to this rule.

Find Your Perfect Rosé What do the pros recommend for those ready to take the plunge?

“I love a classic Provençal Rosé,” says Tegan Foster, owner of Hawthorne Bottle Shop, “but I also seek out Rosé of my favorite grapes, Cabernet Franc, Pinot Noir, and Gamay Noir. My favorite at the moment is a Cab Franc Rosé de Loire from Thibaud Boudignon. It is a bit of a splurge, but totally worth it. My everyday drinker right now is Vanduzer Pinot Noir Rosé from Oregon. It's a bowl of strawberries with a touch of soil left on them.”

If you still believe Rosé isn’t for you, both wine aficionados have a bit of advice. Rodriguez-Laureano says, “We always start by asking someone what they like in a wine: fruit-forward? dry? minerality? There is truly a Rosé for every palate. It’s just figuring out what you like and how to translate it.” As for pairing, she recommends, “Barbecue, Pork, Fish and Charcuterie.”

For someone unsure about Rosé, Foster asks, “If they drink red wine, and if so, what grapes? That tells me how to choose their perfect Rosé. If you like Cabernet, I can find you a Rosé made with Cab. If it’s Malbec, I've got a Malbec Rosé, and so on. Just imagine your favorite red, but chilled, out by the pool.”

It’s time to rethink pink, folks! Get out there and enjoy the official wine of summer. I highly recommend stopping by Hawthorne and Lolita’s to speak to their knowledgeable staffs and find your perfect Rosé!

The Pinball Arcade Museum

Hopdoddy Burger Bar

Sunshine Kitty Catfe

Poppo’s Taqueria

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 Pinball Arcade Museum is now open at 2313 Central Avenue in The Grand Central District. Keep the nostalgia alive inside the 2,000 square foot space filled with around 60 pinball and arcade machines from the ’80s and ’90s. You don’t need to carry around a pocket full of quarters or tokens either — all machines are set to Free Play. Instead, a $15 admission fee gives gamers an all-day pass to the arcade. Best of all, The Pinball Arcade Museum is a nonprofit organization that benefits local charities.

Hopdoddy Burger Bar is coming soon to 670 Central Avenue (formerly the offices of Peregrine Construction Group). The fast-casual burger joint was founded in Austin, TX in 2010 with a focus on fresh ingredients, antibiotic and hormone-free beef ground in-house, thick shakes, and hand-cut fries. Hopdoddy is also known for having an extensive beer menu featuring many local craft beers. The restaurant is currently in permitting and expected to debut by early 2020.

Sunshine Kitty Catfe, Tampa Bay’s first and only cat cafe, is coming soon to 1663 1st Avenue South in the Grand Central District. Once their doors open this fall, Sunshine Kitty will be a place where friends meet to celebrate a birthday, grab a small bite to eat, to work on a homework assignment, or just to relax...surrounded by cats of course! And if you develop a strong bond with a cat (or cats), you can adopt them. Sunshine Kitty Catfe has partnered with local animal shelter Friends of Strays.

A 36-story tower has been proposed for the heart of Downtown St. St Pete. After sitting vacant for over a decade, the grass lot at the corner of

1st Avenue North and 2nd Street North, across from the popular Jannus block, may finally see some activity. The $117 million project, called Ascent St. Petersburg, is designed around a luxury apartment tower, which will feature 354 rental units and an adjacent 172-key hotel. The entire project will be complimented by nearly 8,300 square feet of groundlevel retail space and will contain a total of 508 parking spaces. Site plan review documents were submitted to the City in early June.

Poppo’s Taqueria is now open at 1033 Central Avenue. Poppo’s makes everything from scratch and uses ingredients that are all whole, fresh, local (when available) and organic (when it makes sense). Their motto is “No compromise”. The menu is simple, offering build-your-own tacos, burritos, quesadillas, or bowls. Protein selections include ancho chicken, carnitas, morita steak, and tempeh. There are around twelve different fillings including pico de gallo, jalapeño relish, and honey-lime slaw.

Burlington Townhomes are coming soon to the northwest corner of Burlington Avenue and 8th Street North, only four blocks from Central Avenue. Each three-story unit will have a two-car garage and a small private yard for your pup. Construction on the 24-unit project began earlier this year. The homes will range in size from 1,729 to 1,941 square feet and pricing will likely start in the mid-$500’s.

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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Dog Swim Day. Photo by City of St. Petersburg.

EVENTS

Stuff the Bus

When: Friday, August 16th from 8am - 2pm Memory Café Where: St. Petersburg Police Department, 1300 1st Ave. N When: Monday, August 12th Cost: Donations from 11am - 1pm Where: Carrabba’s, 1951 4 th St. N. It’s time once again for St. Pete to Stuff the Bus with school Cost: Free to attend (Food supplies for the back-to-school & beverages are available for needs of deserving children in purchase. Simplified menus make our community. Items needed: restaurant ordering a breeze.)

3-Ring Binders, Notebook Paper, You’re invited to join us if you or Pocket Folders, Highlighters, a loved one you care for at home Crayons, Colored Pencils, Pencil have memory issues due to a disease process or traumatic brain Sharpeners, Backpacks, Rulers, Water-Based Markers, Glue injury, and you want to continue Sticks, White Glue, Scissors, actively enjoying life. Open Ballpoint Pens, Number 2 doors to new friendships, and provide additional support during Pencils, Notebooks, Erasers, Index Cards. For more info, visit challenging times. www.pinellaseducation.org/ For more info, email sensol@ event/stuff-the-bus/. seniorsmile.com.

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Dog Swim Day

Global Climbing Day

When: Saturday, August 17th from 9:30am - 1pm Where: Fossil Park Pool, 6739 Dr. M.L.K. Jr. St. N Cost: Admission is $5 per dog.

Spoil your dog with a day at the pool! Owner must bring proof of dog’s vaccinations. Sorry, no human swimming permitted during Dog Swim Days. For more info, call 727-893-7445 or visit www.stpeteparksrec.org.

When: Saturday, August 24th from 2pm - 5pm Where: Vertical Ventures, 116 18th St S Cost: 1st Time = Free Admission First time visitors will receive FREE admission. Live DJ, Food Truck, Screen Printing, Free Kombucha Sampling with Mother Kombucha and more! For more info, visit stpete.verticalventures.com.

PARC’s Top Chefs When: Thursday, August 22 from 6:30pm - 10pm Where: Morean Center for Clay, 420 22nd St S Cost: $75 and up The 5th annual Top Chefs event will feature some of the hottest restaurants in Tampa Bay paired with individuals from PARC who have received Culinary Training to collaborate on mouthwatering entrées that will be served to hungry guests. For more info, visit www.parc-fl.org. nd

BYOBaby Flow When: Sunday, August 25th from 11am - 12:15pm Where: The Body Electric Yoga Co., 3015 7th St N Cost: $20 Dedicate some time to yourself without having to call the babysitter. Appropriate for wearable babies, crawlers, and early-walkers. For more info, visit thebodyelectricyoga.com.

For more events or to submit your own event info, visit greenbenchmonthly.com/events.

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

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