Tampa Bay METRO

BEST OF

2014 ISSUE

WRAPS YULE LOVE

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5 Bed | 3/1 Bath | 3,573 SF | Offered at $712,500 The Malowany Group 727.593.4699 www.748NINA.smithandassociates.com

DAVIS ISLANDS

5 Bed | 4/1 Bath | 4,520 SF | Offered at $1,135,000 Traci Burns 813.833.7510 www.473LUCERNE.smithandassociates.com

BAYSHORE BOULEVARD

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BEACH PARK

3 Bed | 2 Bath | 1,748 SF | Offered at $499,000 Mary Lou Gordon 813.361.6244 www.4521AZEELE.smithandassociates.com

DAVIS ISLANDS - WATERFRONT

6 Bed | 6/1 Bath | 7,018 SF | Offered at $4,799,000 Mary Pond & Ed Gunning 813.690.7902 www.64MARTINIQUE.smithandassociates.com

HARBOUR ISLAND

4 Bed | 3/1 Bath | 3,200 SF | Offered at $799,500 Traci Burns 813.833.7510 www.1036ROYALPASS2.smithandassociates.com

HARBOUR ISLAND

3 Bed | 2/1 Bath | 2,729 SF | Offered at $629,500 Traci Burns 813.833.7510 www.326INNERHARBOUR1.smithandassociates.com

AVILA

10 Bed | 13/6 Bath | 28,363 SF | Offered at $6,495,000 Mitzi Gill & Dina Sierra Smith 813.760.6354 www.AvilaEstate.com

| | 1.855.580.3758 TAMPA | ST. PETERSBURG | CLEARWATER | WWW.SMITHANDASSOCIATES.COM

HARBOUR ISLAND

3 Bed | 3 Bath | 1,733 SF | Offered at $469,000 Stephen Gay 813.380.4343 www.44512TH1704.smithandassociates.com

BEACH PARK WATERFRONT

5 Bed | 4/1 Bath | 4,670 SF | Offered at $1,899,000 Mary Pond & Ed Gunning 813.294.8867 www.5026THERIVIERA2.smithandassociates.com

PEMBERTON CREEK

4 Bed | 5 Bath | 4,721 SF | Offered at $499,900 Jane Theriault & Dina Sierra Smith 813.335.6127 www.RuralElegance.com

Contents December | January 2014

34

14

MetroLife 8

The Publisher’s Notes

10 Drink Holiday Spirit & New Year's Cheer

12 People Pelagia Trattoria's Executive Chef, Brett Gardiner

14 Style Pirate’s Booty

16 Arts The Dalí Museum, Warhol: Art. Fame. Mortality.

18 Spotlights

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Events, Business & Promotions

24 Scene The Bay Area Social Scene

30 B Scene Local Area Party Happenings

32 Gala Pavillion XXVIII

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MetroHome 34 Inspirations Inspirational Table Settings for the Holidays

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38 Details New Year. New Storage.

40 Hot Property Luxury Lakefront Estate Living in Avila

MetroFamily 58 People Meet Robyn Spoto

60 Private School Choices Three Local Families Share Their Decisions

66 METRO'S 2014 Private School List Survey Results of Area Private Schools

MetroGuide 76 Getaways Playa del Carmen, Hotel RIU Palace, Mexico

78 Wine Revisiting the Classics for 2014

80 Foodie

Features

Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar

82 Latitude

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Fitness Tips for the New Year Great tips to getting and staying fit after the holidays

BY MARY LOU JANSON

Unique Sightings Around Tampa Bay

Special Sections 70 Metro's Private School Guide Bay Area's Top Private Schools

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Best Of Metro 2014 The best the Bay area has to offer in shopping, dining, entertainment and health COMPILED BY RONDA M. PARAG

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73 Health + Beauty Guide Discover the Latest Trends and Products

81 Metro Dining Guide A Guide to Area Restaurants

Publisher’s Notes The new year is a time to reflect and be filled with new possibilities.

In this issue, METRO is chocked full of great information to start the new year off right.

In Best of METRO, we’ve recommended some of the top spots in Tampa Bay for eating, drinking, shopping and entertainment.

While space limits what we can include, if there is some place that you think needs to be included for the future, send me an email, we are always on the hunt for interesting people and places.

Education is so important to our nation’s future, and writer, Mary Lou Janson shares three parents’ stories, including why they are passionate about their school selection in Discovering the Right Private School. METRO has also surveyed area private schools and provides the information in an easy-to-read and save chart on page 66.

The Private School List serves as a great reference when reviewing school options.

Every year it seems we all make a resolution to get healthy.

Meet three Bay area fitness instructors from Vibe Fit Club, PureBarre Tampa and Hot Yoga, and their best tips for getting and staying fit in the new year.

Ahoy Matey! The pirates of Ye Mystic Krewe will invade our great city and take the keys from Mayor Buckhorn in January, but you’ll be fashionable dressed with a few finds in Style.

We are proud to sponsor and be involved with several upcoming charity events from the Wine Weekend St. Pete, to benefit the Museum of Fine Arts, to the Heart Gallery and its mission to help foster children find permanent homes. We hope you’ll join us in attending and supporting these events.

We wish all of our loyal readers, advertisers and friends a joyous and happy holiday season.

Publisher / Editor-in-Chief Stephen Parag II Publisher / Managing Editor Ronda M. Parag Associate Publisher Patricia Vorbrich Executive Art Director Chad Vorbrich Contributing Writers Mary Lou Janson Brooke Palmer Kevin Pelley Contributing Photographers Ellen Leedy Amy Pezzicara Dennis Ramos

Enjoy, President / CEO Stephen Parag II Vice President / CFO Patricia Vorbrich

Stephen Parag II Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief

Vice President Ronda M. Parag Vice President Chad Vorbrich

Upcoming METRO Sponsored Events:

Publishers of: Tampa Bay Metro™ Tampa Bay MetroHome™ Tampa Bay Weddings Magazine™

Feb. 1 & 7-9 2014 Wine Weekend St. Pete | www.wineweekendstpete.org Feb. 6

Be Mine 2014 | www.heartgallerytampabay.org

Feb. 22

Fashion Funds the Cure | www.fastercure.org | 813.269.0955

Feb. 28

Easter Seals’ A Pair to Remember | www.fl.easterseals.com/tampa | 813.769.5923

Tampa Bay METRO Magazine (ISSN 1536-4909) is published bi-monthly by Metro Life Media, Inc. at 3404 S. Omar Ave., Tampa, Florida 33629 (813) 835-7700 Fax (813) 835-7700 • Copyright 2014 Metro Life Media, Inc. All rights reserved. Reproduction of, or use without written permission of the publisher, of editorial, pictorial or design content in any manner is prohibited in the United States. Tampa Bay METRO Magazine,™ METROHome™, METROGuide™ , METRO’s Best™, METRO Home Buyers Guide™ , METROBiz™ , METROStyle™ , METROStop™ , METROLife™, METROFamily™, Suncoast Life™, Tampa Bay METRO Charity Register™ are trademarks of Metro Life Media, Inc. • Subscriptions: In the Continental U.S. one year $14.95 Canada and U.S. Possessions, $30. Overseas, $36.

POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Tampa Bay Metro, 3404 S. Omar Ave., Tampa, Florida 33629 • Advertisements in this publication do not constitute an offer for sale in states where prohibited or restricted by law.

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December|January 2014

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METROLife Spirits

Holiday Spirit and New Year’s Cheer Toast the season and keep the holiday spirit going with these easily crafted bourbon cocktails. The Yuletide Punch is great for a New Year's celebration or toast the year ahead with a cocktail from Knob Creek ®.

Knob Creek® Rye & Honey

by Michael Neff 2½ parts Knob Creek® Rye ½ part Dolin Sweet Vermouth 3 cloves 3 cardamom pods 1. Muddle the cloves and cardamom in the bottom of a glass.

2. Pour in Knob Creek® Rye and let sit for one minute.

3. Add vermouth and stir.

4. Serve up with a lemon twist.

Basil Hayden’s® Spicy Yuletide Punch Created by Brian Stewart 6 parts Basil Hayden’s® Bourbon 4 parts DeKuyper® Ginger Liqueur 3 parts Fresh Lemon Juice 6 parts Pear Juice 2 parts Cinnamon Syrup 16 parts Prosecco

Basil Hayden’s® Stroke of Midnight 1 part Basil Hayden’s® Bourbon Sparkling Apple Juice

®

1. Add Basil Hayden’s Bourbon, ginger liqueur, lemon juice, pear juice and cinnamon syrup to a punch bowl, stir and refrigerate 2. When ready to serve add Prosecco 3. Serve over ice in a small punch glass

1. Add Basil Hayden’s® Bourbon to a champagne flute.

2. Fill the remainder of the glass with sparkling apple juice.

3. Garnish with a sliced apple.

Knob Creek® Muddled Creek 2 parts Knob Creek® Bourbon Ginger ale, to taste Splash of triple sec Muddled orange slice 1. In a rock glass, muddle an orange slice 2. Fill rocks glass with ice 3. Add Knob Creek® Bourbon and triple sec 4. Add just a splash of ginger ale to top off

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December|January 2014

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METROLife People

Surfing, Kite Sailing, Hydroponic Farming...

Executive Chef, Brett Gardiner

By Mary Lou Janson Off comes the crisp, white chef’s jacket and out comes the wetsuit. Out of the kitchen and off to the waterfront. That’s where Brett Gardiner escapes when it’s time to take a break from the daily demands the head chef faces at a high end Tampa hotel and restaurant.

An avid water sports enthusiast, who was immersed in the surfing culture of Oahu, Hawaii, Gardiner seeks release from work with the help of a kite, wakeboard, wind and water.

“Whenever it’s windy, I try to goof off for a couple of hours,” said the executive chef of the Renaissance Tampa International Plaza’s Pelagia Trattoria, Brett Gardiner. “I’ve surfed my whole life so when we moved (to Tampa Bay) 10 years ago, I got into kiteboarding. It’s nice to get out and think about nothing but being in that moment.”

Growing up, Gardiner learned the industry working alongside his father and mother at the family-owned Hy’s Steak House. Still, he considered cooking a job, not a career, even though his father founded Kobe Japanese Steak House.

Studying horticulture, Gardiner set his sights on a different field — one that produced tropical fruits and exotic flowers for his livelihood.

“We had a working hydroponic farm at school and sold what it produced to local restaurants,” Gardiner said. “It piqued my interest to see what chefs were doing with what they bought.”

The Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel now has its own roof top garden growing herbs, peppers and squash blossoms.

Re-focused on his restaurant roots, Gardiner trained and worked in the culinary arts, gaining experience at resorts and restaurants in Arizona, Las Vegas and the Tampa Bay area where he and his wife, Nina, also an accomplished chef, opened Hapa, a successful, fine dining restaurant.

After joining Pelagia as sous chef, Gardiner now oversees all food-related operations at the Four Diamond-rated hotel and acclaimed restaurant.

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December|January 2014

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• Formal Gowns • Cocktail Dresses • Gasparilla Events • Prom Gowns • Casual & Cruise Wear • Pageant Gowns • Mothers of the Bride and Groom • Bar & Bat Mitzvah Dresses • Dress Shoes • Amazing Accessories

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Cocktails, Couture & Compassion J O I N U S F O R T H I S U N I Q U E E V E N T C R E AT E D F O R W O M E N W H O A D O R E S H O E S !

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 28, 2014 11AM - 2PM

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A beloved experience, this event is an afternoon luncheon, complete with beauty, fashionable $125 $1,500 l a d i e s a n d tr e n d s e t t i n g s p r i n g s h o e s .

Table of 10 S C A N T H E Q R C O D E T O P U R C H A S E T I C K E T S .

For more information, please visit: www.fl.easterseals.com/tampa or contact Melixa Carbonell at (813) 769.5923.

Easter Seals’ mission is to provide exceptional services to ensure that all people with disabilities or other special needs and their families have equal opportunities to live, learn, work and play in their communities. www.TampaBayMetro.com

December|January 2014

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METROLife Style

A Pirate’s Booty The pirates are coming on January 25, 2014, as Tampa Bay celebrates all things pirates at the annual Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest. METRO found a few stylish musthave accessories to stand out in the crowd.

Skull & Bones Sweater Top off the pirate look with this lightweight, striped, skull graphic sweater. $42. Available at {a} haley Boutique.

Boho Chic Be stylish with this pirate skull head wrap from Nordstrom, available in gold and silver. $16. Available at Nordstrom, www.nordstrom.com.

Hanging Around Created by designer Meredith Haws, these medallion skull necklaces will complete any attire for the day.

Skull - $185; Two Skeletons - $215.

Available at Deborah Kent’s.

Glamorous Shimmering Flat At the end of the day, your feet will thank you in these stylish sequins and jeweled skull smoking slippers by Ash. $175. Available at Neiman Marcus.

Wrist Candy Custom hand-painted bracelets by Valorie Bauer in a festive Gasparilla motif with pirate skulls, Jose Gaspar’s ship and/or Krewe insignias. Bracelets may be personalized and embellished with Swarovski crystals. $52. Available via Facebook at Valorieo Art; 813.244.0316 or valorie@bauercorp.com.

All in the Bag

It’s a Wrap

Handset red Swarovski crystals make this red skull handbag a conversation piece. $219. Available at Tresca Italia, www.trescaitalia.com.

Wrap a scarf around the neck in lieu of a necklace with this skull scarf that will keep you warm. $16.

Available at {a} haley Boutique.

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December|January 2014

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METROLife Arts

The Dalí Museum Warhol: Art. Fame.

Mortality.

By Ronda M. Parag

Begin 2014 with a renewed focus on art and entertainment.

While art serves to bring passion and inspiration to the world, The Dalí Museum kicks off the new year with its first visiting exhibition — Warhol: Art. Fame. Mortality, opening to the public on January 18.

The exhibit will include approximately 35 paintings, 20 drawings, 50 photographs and a selection of Warhol films, including screen tests. The works are on loan from The Warhol Museum in Pittsburgh, PA where Warhol was born. Opened in 1994, The Warhol Museum contains seven floors of Warhol’s paintings, sculptures, prints, photographs, films and screen tests, as well as books and other archives.

“Our new exhibit will feature an important selection of works from Andy Warhol, one of the world’s most well-known artists,” said Dr. Hank Hine, the Dalí Museum’s Executive Director. “It’s important for The Dalí to present works from other artists, especially those that relate to Salvador Dalí, to highlight different perspectives while showing their unique connections.”

“What is unusual is the mix of materials including archival photographs depicting Warhol in the 1950s,” said Dr. William Jeffett, The Dalí’s Special Exhibitions Curator. “You will see both photos of and by Warhol. There are portraits of dozens of artists and celebrities that Warhol worked with. On display there will be nine acrylic and silk screen paintings of Jacqueline Lee “Jackie” Bouvier Kennedy Onassis.”

In addition to the variety of paintings, prints, photography and films, a special film installation provides visitors their “15 minutes of fame.” A simulated Warhol screen-test is set to film visitors as they sit in front of the camera for about a minute.

The installation harkens back to the film style Andy Warhol experimented with in his days at The Factory. Visitors will be able to capture, save, and share their “movie” online.

Warhol: Art. Fame. Mortality. opens to the public on Saturday, Jan. 18 and runs through April 27, 2014. The Dalí Museum is located at One Dalí Boulevard, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701. For additional information contact 727-823-3767, or www.TheDali.org.

Jackie, 1964 Andy Warhol, acrylic and silkscreen ink on linen The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

Self-Portrait, 1986 Andy Warhol, acrylic and silkscreen ink on linen The Andy Warhol Museum, Pittsburgh © The Andy Warhol Foundation for the Visual Arts, Inc.

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December|January 2014

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STYLISH SOPHISTICATION LOVING DETAILS REACHING THE COVETED AFFLUENT BRIDE

www.tampabaywed.com www.TampaBayMetro.com

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METROLife Spotlight

Smith & Associates Goes Orange in London A British themed party to celebrate the new collaboration between Smith & Associates Real Estate and Mayfair International Realty, was held recently at the Beach Drive office. Guests were offered cocktails, tea, and delicious appetizers including fish ‘n chips and shepherd’s pie, with catering by Mise en Place. Take aways included specially packaged tea and custom made cookies.

Photos/Clockwise: Bonnia Monteau, Mitzi Gill, Mary Lou Gordon & Julie Simmons; Mary Smith Conover, Bob Glaser; Faith & Dave Traynor; Mike Barratt, Nikki Phillips, Lois Burnside Photos: Rob/Harris Productions

Grand Opening Party at Sola Salons

The Essence of Style Fine women’s apparel, shoes and accessories from NY, LA, Milan, London & Paris

Featured fashion by Suno

Sola Salons in New Tampa hosted a grand opening party with raffles, gift bags, drinks and appetizers. Located in the New Tampa, Wesley Chapel area, Sola Salons is your one-stop salon for beauty with hair, nails, massage therapists and more.

Visit us at 18061 Highwoods Preserve Parkway, Tampa, FL, 33647 or at www.solasalonstudios.com.

Photo, L to R: Jillian Melucci – Nails by Jillian, Tammy Sand – Loose Ends, Jana Sherpan – The Curl Specialist, Tava Paredes – Tava Lace Hair Design.

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December|January 2014

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THE TRUTH ABOUT MAGAZINES: Baisden Gallery Hosts Art of Adornment

“Readers enjoy reading the magazine ads.

They don’t pay to avoid them as they do with other media.”

Source: Nielsen 2012

A one day trunk show, featuring the hand-crafted treasures of Meredith Haws Jewelry was held at the Baisden Gallery. Guests and friends were invited to view Meredith’s latests designs inspired by her recent Italian travels. “My destination becomes my inspiration,” Haws said.

Photo: Gigi Gialames, Leslie Chrysochoos, Susan Baisden - Gallery Owner, Meredith Haws - Designer, Christine Prince

The Reproductive Medicine Group Supports USF WLP Fall Symposium

Dr. Sandy Goodman and Pat Hincher hosted a table of dynamic women at the 8th Annual Women in Leadership & Philanthropy with keynote speaker Dee Dee Myers. The day was chocked full of informative seminars and a networking reception.

Photo: Kathy Fountain, Lisette Campos, Dr. Sandy Goodman, Pat Hincher, Nicole Witt, Mindy Murphy, Renee Dabbs,

www.TampaBayMetro.com

December|January 2014

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METROLife Spotlight

METROmixer at Pelagia Trattoria Friends and invited guests of METRO magazine enjoyed a Happy Hour inside the Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel.

Special “Metro-tinis” were served along with delicious appetizers from Chef Gardiner.

METROmixer at The Capital Grille

METRO magazine hosted an evening of networking at The Capital Grille. Special hand-crafted Woodford Reserve, craft Bourbon cocktails were served along with hors d’oeuvres.

Photos: Ellen Leedy

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December|January 2014

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THE TRUTH ABOUT MAGAZINES:

{a} haley Boutique Light Up with Lafco

â&#x20AC;&#x153;61% of readers took action as a result of an ad placed in a magazine.â&#x20AC;?

Source: GfK MRI Fall 2011

Named as one of Oprahâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite things, the Lafco candle is available at {a} haley Boutique in south Tampa.

Each candle comes in a beautiful hand blown art glass that can be re-purposed for a pen & pencil holder, vase or even a drinking glass. Lafco candles are made with soy wax blended with at least 90 percent natural perfume grade essence to promote the heavenly fragrances. The scents are created for each room of the home and include such fragrances as Celery Thyme for the dining room, Daffodil for the guest room and Spike Lavender for the media room.

For stylish and trendy gifts, fashions and accessories visit {a} haley Boutique at 128B S. Westshore Blvd., Tampa (next to Pier 1 Imports). 813.207.0400

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Our team of board certified specialty physicians trained at top medical schools including Harvard, Johns Hopkins, Duke and UCLA are your best chance to achieve pregnancy. From basic interventions to the most advanced technologies, weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll help you take the next step on the greatest journey of your life.

The Reproductive Medicine Group is Tampa Bayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s exclusive fertility clinic offering the Attain IVF Refund Program.

*/'&35*-*5: t 3&130%6$5*7& &/%0$3*/0-0(: t *7' Visit us at floridafertility.com or call 813.914.7304

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METROLife Spotlight

Give The Perfect Gift Of An Annual Membership Pass To The Florida Aquarium Take your gift giving to a whole new level. Sea level. An Annual Membership Pass to The Florida Aquarium offers free parking, discounts on nationwide attractions and endless area perks.

Purchase passes online now and save 10%.

The Florida Aquarium 701 Channelside Dr., Tampa 813-273-4030 www.flaquarium.org

Seminole Hard Rock Hosts Celebrity Chef, Donatella Arpaia Ever charming and talented, Chef Donatella Arpaia hosted a cooking demonstration and dinner at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. In town to participate in the Enjoy Arts & Tastes St. Pete, Arpaia, along with Seminole Hard Rock executive chef, Bill Gideon, created a special dinner at Council Oak. Prior to the dinner, Arpaia shared her family recipe for Italian meatballs. Her big secret — she uses veal, fresh Italian bread and fresh garlic, not pre-chopped garlic. “Resist the urge to play with the balls,” Arpaia laughs. “Turn them just once.”

Seminole Hard Rock www.seminolehardrocktampa.com 813.627.ROCK

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THE TRUTH ABOUT MAGAZINES: Moffitt Cancer Center Receives Donation

“Magazines build buzz. They excel in reaching people who shape attitudes and behavior.”

Source: GfK MRI Fall 2011

The Moffitt Cancer Center received a $5 million donation from Chris Sullivan, restaurant developer and co-founder of Outback Steakhouse, and its parent company, Bloomin’ Brands, Inc. The gift will help support research to develop personalized therapies for patients with melanoma.

Photo: Former U.S. Senator Connie Mack, Restaurateur Chris Sullivan, Moffitt Founder H. Lee Moffitt and Moffitt President and CEO Alan F. List, M.D., unveil the artist rendering of the Chris Sullivan Family Atrium.

Shorecrest Preparatory Honors Patrick Wilson

Actor Patrick Wilson, Shorecrest Prep graduate in 1991, was the recipient of the Alumni Distinguished Achievement Award for 2013. The recipient is chosen by a committee, which includes Shorecrest alumni from every graduating class decade, faculty, and parents of alumni. The award is to recognize individuals who have made significant and meaningful contributions to society.

Photo: Mark Wilson ’87, John and Mary Kay Wilson, Patrick Wilson ’91 and Paul Wilson ‘86

www.TampaBayMetro.com

December|January 2014

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METROLife Scene

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Pavilion XXVIII Patron Party: Patrons of Tampa Museum of Art’s Pavilion XXVIII enjoyed a N’awlins style cocktail party at the Palma Ceia golf course home of Lightning owners, Jeff and Penny Vinik. Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres were served outside on the lawn that was completely decorated with black carpet and white furniture. | Sueños de Dalí : Guests of the

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Sueños de Dalí enjoyed a night filled with illusory sensations, signature cocktails, a variety of

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gourmet cuisine, and music to benefit the Dalí Museum. Costumes were encouraged at the Alice in Wonderland themed soiree, chaired by Emmanuel and Montserrat Cerf. Earlier in the day, rocker Alice Cooper visited the museum. | USF Women in Leadership & Philanthropy Luncheon: It was a sellout crowd at the 8th Annual USF WLP Fall Symposium, as women enjoyed workshops in the morning, a luncheon with keynote speaker Dee Dee Myers, author of Why Women Should Rule the World, and an afternoon networking reception. Barbara Sparks-McGlincy was presented with the WLP Community Leadership Award. | Bridging the Bay at Tampa Museum of Art: Fifth Third Bank’s President and CEO, Brian Lamb, along with Investment Advisors Director, Cary Putrino, recently sponsored an event called “Bridging the

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Bay” at the Tampa Museum of Art. The private reception for Collectors Circle Members and MFA Trustees, included an exhibition tour with Tampa Museum of Art Director, Todd Smith.

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(1) Rick Scherer, Kevin Reder (2) Patsy & Gene McNichols, MaryJane Martinez, Mayor Bob Buckhorn, Gov. Bob Martinez (3) Anne & Troy Atlas (4) Penny & Jeff Vinik, Tready Smith, Leslie Langford (5) Nancy SeijasKipnis, Donna Heath, Brooke Melendi, Julia Gorzka-Freeman, Seth Pevnick, Ph.D. (6) Joe & Robin Meterchick (7) Museum Founding Family, Mary Ann & Brad Morse (8) Irene Athos, Emmanuel & Montserrat Cerf (9) Sandy Murman, Dr. Cathy Lynch, Michelle Schofner (10) Chris Wandembergh, Becky Tanner, Debbie Torres (11) Jessica Rivelli, Holly Jean (12) Todd Smith, Cary Putrino, Demi Rahall, Mary Perry, Brian Lamb

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METROLife Scene

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Junior League of Tampa Holiday Gift Market Kickoff: The Junior League of Tampa and president, Lee Lowry and HGM co-chairs, Shannon Walsh and Gianni O’Connor, kicked off a weekend of shopping for a cause with a fun evening of music, raffles, hors d’oeuvres and special discounts.

It was a record breaking year with nearly 14,000 people through the doors, as they celebrated its 10th anniversary as a Tampa tradition. | Broadway Ball at the Straz Center: It was An Evening in Manhattan with event chairs Rita and Todd Wickner, creating a magnificent evening raising © Janet Bahr Photography

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nearly $300,000 to benefit The Straz Center. The 350 guests enjoyed cocktails in an atrium decorated like Central Park, then dined on-stage, a live auction and then enjoyed a concert by

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Michael Feinstein. Later, it was off to Studio 54 to dance the night away. The evening was dedicated by Straz board chair, Martin Silbiger, to the late, civic leader Dottie Berger MacKinnon. | PARC’s 44th Annual Black Tie Reflection Ball: The 44th Annual Black Tie “Diamond Reflection Ball” at the beautiful Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, introduced PARC’s Elite 13 Magnetic Men of 2013 and celebrated PARC’s 60th Diamond Anniversary. The 570 guests enjoyed fabulous music, delicious food, and unique live and silent auction items as well as casino-style gaming tables. They raised over $120,000 to support the programs and mission of PARC. | JDRF Mad for Cure Gala: The Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation (JDRF) Tampa Bay Chapter, cele© Janet Bahr Photography

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brated its annual gala co-chaired by Rob Canton, Executive VP of the Tampa Bay Lightning, and 1999 Miss America, Nicole Johnson, Executive Director of Bringing Science Home/USF Health. The event honored University of South Florida President, Judy Genshaft,

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for her leadership in developing USF into a prominent, nationally-recognized center for diabetes research. The event raised an all-time record of over $500,000.

(13) Catarina Whitwell, Nicole Cuervo, Leslie Buddemeyer (14) Stacy Carlson, Gianni O’Connor, Shannon Walsh, Lee Lowry (15) Whitney Woods, Tara Eckhoff, Lynette Russell, Jennifer Carlstedt, Marlene Maseman (16) Jim Burkhardt, Patsy & Gene McNichols (17) Dr. Linda Greco, Judy Lisi (18) Tom Sanson, Cathy Unruh (19) Michael & Romona Shimberg (20) Lois & Dr. Jay Older (21) Kathy & Chuck Prather, Delma & Tim Columbus, Jen Ezell, Berie Brooks, Nancy & Chris Banks, Laurie Stogniew, Lon Johnson (22) Chuck Prather, Frank Clemente, Tim Columbus (23) Nicole Johnson, Judy Genshaft, Rob Canton (24) Sam & Leann Jarczynski

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METROLife Scene

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Enjoy Arts & Tastes St. Pete: The weekend long Enjoy Arts & Tastes Festival kicked off with the Sense Immersion Dinner hosted by celebrity chef Todd English, and renowned glass artist Duncan McClellan at the Museum of Fine Arts. Tom Haines of Reeves Maserati showcased

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the two Maserati models. Guests enjoyed a multi-course dinner with other local chefs,

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preparing each course including Stewart O’Flaherty, Richard Logan, Paul Liptak, Paula “Pollyzoon” Allen, Chris Ponte, Tyson Grant, Jacob Stout, Mary Blitz and Dominique Labauvie. | Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation Hosts Luncheon: The Moffitt Cancer Center Foundation hosted a wonderful lunch at The Capital Grille to thank all the former chairs and sponsors of Key to the Cure. The Foundation team of Susan Stern, Kathy Werner and Sonia Cerundolo, thanked the group for their passion and continued support of the Moffitt Cancer Center. | 20th Annual Salvation Army Tree of Lights: The annual breakfast, chaired this year by Debra Roberts Bellanti, officially kicked off the holiday season with a program filled with music, inspirational stories and hope. Advisory board members Gene McNichols & The McNichols

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company and Don Mays & Craft Equipment Company, provided matching gifts for the breakfast. WFLA’s Jeff Patterson was the emcee.

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(25) Duncan & Irene McClellan, Paula & Richard Logan, Marel Bass (26) Jim Henning, Teresa Williams, Don Miggs, Lisa DeBartolo (27) Kim & Alan List (28) Phil Orsino, Robin Roberts, Laura & Mel Klinghoffer (29) Tom & Penny Haines, Jane Pannwitz, Brooke Palmer (30) Julie Lux, Kathy Lewis (31) Georgeann Nikolich, Wendy Pepe (32) Susan Thompson, Lynne Walker, Elysia Ekezian, Cheryl Adams, Laine Walker (33) Barbara Ryals, Lisa Mulfinger, Susan Stern (34) Majors James & Leisa Hall, Lt Colonel John R. Jones, Jeff Patterson (35) Gosia Eberle, Destiny, Priscilla & Brown Charite, Martha Bone (36) Howard Grosswirth, Debra Roberts Bellanti, Patsy & Gene McNichols, Byron Smith, Shamus Warren, IV.

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2014 WINE WEEKEND ST. PETE Enjoy Great Wines, Great Foods and Great Times to Benefit a Great Cause The Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg

Please Join Us! February 1st & 7–9th Saturday, February 1st The Grape Escape

Thanks to our sponsors

Friday, February 7th Black Tie Dinner

Raymond James Financial duPont Registry

Saturday, February 8th Gala Wine Auction and Dinner Sunday, February 9th Concours d’ Elegance Jazz Brunch

Bert Smith Porsche Brown & Brown Insurance Raymond James Mustard Seed Advisors Tampa Bay Metro

For more information, tickets and sponsorships, visit WineWeekendStPete.org

www.TampaBayMetro.com

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METROLife B Scene

Scenesters! The Holidays are here. Can you B-lieve it?

Decorations galore, Thanksgiving and Hanukkah all wrapped into one, and it’s moving as fast as Santa’s sleigh. Florida holidays are the brightest and it is truly our favorite time of year. We want to thank our B Scene readers for being loyal and continuing to support Tampa Bay Metro, in all we do. And since this column is full of busy happenings, like the reindeer, off we go.

In continuing with his annual tradition, former Tampa Bay Bucaneer, Ryan Nece and The Ryan Nece Foundation teamed up with many partners, including Winn-Dixie, Metropolitan Ministries, Feeding America Tampa Bay, TECO Energy, Junior League of Tampa, and the University Area Community Development Corporation to feed approximately 800 - 1,000 individuals.

Metropolitan Ministries led the preparation and transportation of the food to the UACDC for serving. The families were seated and served restaurant-style, so they could enjoy a hot Thanksgiving meal together, while listening to a performance by local band, Phase 5. The Feeding America Tampa Bay mobile pantry provided each family with a box of food items, including fresh produce and frozen meats, to take home.

Ryan Nece, along with Buccaneers linebacker, Dekoda Watson, and Miss Florida 2013 Myrrhanda Jones, were on hand to greet families, sign autographs, and take pictures. Over 150 volunteers, led by the high school students who are part of the foundation’s Student Service Program, also gave of their time to help those in need.

The Eye Ball, now in its seventh year, had over 250 gather to help the 285 million blind and visually impaired worldwide, during the Lions Eye Institute for Transplant & Research Eye Ball Gala (LEITR). This year’s gala celebrated LEITR’s 40 years of ocular advancements and foundation work, that has helped give the gift of sight to 55,000 men, women and children across the globe. The renowned Light of Sight Award was presented to Alex Sink in honor of her late husband, Bill McBride by LEITR CEO, Jason Woody. Sink has been a vocal advocate for cornea donation and passing along the gift of

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sight. During the event, guests enjoyed dining, casino-style gaming, a Bombay Sapphire Gin Bar and a silent auction. Also in attendance were Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn. Lorna Taylor, and Punit and Karla Shah.

Irish 31 Westchase recently held its official Grand Opening with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the Toby Hall Foundation.

Founded by local entrepreneur, Jay Mize, and like its Hyde Park counterpart, Irish 31 gets its name from Mize’s jersey number during his time as a defensive back for the University of South Florida.

In true friendship fashion, many of Hyde Park’s regulars turned up to support Westchase’s hottest new spot including Blake Guthrie, Bianca Mize, Rich Mize, Duane Wildridge, and Toby Hall.

Do you want to B Scene? Email us at bscene@tampabaymetro.com.

Find us on Twitter and Instagram @rsbpevents!

Now get out there and B Scene!

—Brooke Palmer

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METROLife Gala

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Pavilion XXVIII When: Saturday, November 2, 2013 Where: Tampa Museum of Art The Bay area’s premier black tie gala presented by PNC Bank, had a New Orleans theme to benefit the Tampa Museum of Art. Chaired by Lea Beard and her daughter, Allison Beard Luzier, the evening was spectacular for the 300 guests. The evening’s fashions were stunning, as both co-chairs wore gowns by designer Bibhu Mohapatra, who also dressed Carrie Brown, Debra Williams McDaniel and Erin Farah. The evening kicked off with cocktails on the 2nd floor terrace overlooking the Hillsborough River. Guests were then led down the stairs by the USF jazz band and the silent auction was underway. The lively auction included one-of-a-kind items, including a ride in the Orpheus parade at Mardi Gras and a Napa Valley Wine experience at Meadowood Resort & Country Club. Guests then moved out to the terrace to dine on delicious New Orleans inspired dishes from Chef Marty Blitz, including shrimp and grits, duck breast and seared trout. Chocolate Pi’s Kim Yelvington created a stunning display of macaroons, truffle pops and pralines.

Entertainment by the Helios Jazz Orchestra and later by DJ Papi, kept the guests on their feet until midnight.

Museum director Todd Smith was thrilled with proceeds of nearly $250,000 to be used for museum educational programming.

Photography: Amy Pezzicara Stephen Parag II

For more party photos, visit www.tampabaymetro.com.

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METROHome Inspirations

Inspirational Settings The holidays are the perfect excuse to set a festive table and we offer four unique designs. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party for 20, or preparing a romantic dinner for two, a perfectly set table will set the tone for the entire night.

Bohemian Shimmer Set the mood with glint, gleam and a Florentino flourish by Juliska.

We love the swirl of the lustrous gold and platinum of our Firenze ‘Medici’ collection, paired with the white truffle Quotidien collection of plates and chargers, and accompanied by the Berry & Thread glassware collection. | www.juliska.com

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Warm Wishes An elegant backdrop for special meals, the gilt charger has a rich, hand-brushed finish and is accented with a beaded edge. | www.potterybarn.com

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Winter Frolic From sleigh rides to snowball fights … the festive scenes of Juliska’s whimsical “Winter Frolic” Collection paint a different amusement on each piece. Warm reds, snowy white and rustic woven textures make you want to snuggle up by a warm fire with a generous hot toddy. | www.juliska.com

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Posh Celebration Tampa-based stylist, Krayl Funch mixed Metallics with black and white in an elegant and classic combination for New Year's. Mix various size vases down the center of your table, filling some with silver beads, others with noise makers or curled ribbon. Pull it all together with a solid black napkin wrapped in silver beaded garland. | Styling by Krayl Funch â&#x20AC;&#x201C; www.AnAppealingPlan.com

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METROHome Details

New Year. New Storage.

Get your kitchen organized this new year with a few of these simple, yet stylish finds. There is no excuse to have things out of place with these storage gadgets and accessories.

Hanging Above In full sight, but out of the way, the hanging pot rack stores all the pots and pans in a stylish way. $45.

Available at Pier 1 Imports, www.pier1.com.

In Plain Sight An open storage cabinet houses plenty of dishes and kitchen necessities, by Pottery Barn. The Rhodes Canisters hold necessary staples of flour and sugar, and the Rhodes Kitchen Crock will hold utensils.

Canisters - $29 - $39; Crocks $24 - $39.

Available at Pottery Barn, www.potterybarn.com.

Stylish Storage Protect those holiday dishes from dust and chips, with a six-piece red and green chevron pattern dish protector with service for 12. $40.

Available at The Container Store, www.containerstore.com.

Turn Around The two-tier double stainless turntable provides easy access space inside the cabinets for bottles, jars and cans. Ideal for a spice rack. $25. Available at The Container Store, www.containerstore.com.

Stand Up & Organize Designed exclusively for Crate & Barrel, this Enclume速 standing 8-tier pot rack combines function and quality steel construction. Holds cookware and cookbooks for easy storage in plain view. $350.

Available at Crate & Barrel, www.crateandbarrel.com.

Tablet Recipe Helper Read the recipe on your tablet with ease to prepare that homecooked meal, with this Cuisine Tablet Recipe Holder from Pottery Barn that resembles a vintage breadboard. $30. Available at Pottery Barn, www.potterybarn.com.

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SCHERER REDER GROUP â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3 BAY AREA OFFICES: South Tampa: 1001 S. MacDill Avenue, Tampa, FL 33629 Carrollwood: 11014 North Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33618 | Palm Harbor: 3302 U.S. 19 Alt., Palm Harbor, FL 34683

METROHome Hot Property

Luxury Lakefront Estate Living in Avila

By Ronda M. Parag

L

ocated behind the exclusive gates in Avila is a premier, lakefront home that will fulfill any homeownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s dreams. With a spectacular main home of 22,900 square feet, and a guest house of 5,460 square feet, there is certainly room to roam.

The brick and block constructed home, built in 1992, is situated on 3.4 acres overlooking Lake Chapman, where skiing is permitted. The custom-designed home has all quality finishes including hand-crafted ceilings, carved moldings and mantels, granite countertops, elegant lighting fixtures and much more.

Upon entering the home, guests are greeted in the foyer with a magnificent double staircase and crystal chandelier.

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Flooring throughout the home includes carpet, ceramic tile, marble and wood.

The main home has six suite bedrooms, along with nine full and four half-baths.

The home comes complete with an elevator to make getting around a breeze.

For the sports enthusiast, the athletic wing of the estate includes an indoor basketball court, racquetball court, game room and exercise room.

Additional separate spaces include a home theatre, library, study, conference room and wine room. Relax by a fire on a cool evening curled up near any of the four fireplaces.

There is plenty of space for storage, and to park in the three car garage at the main house, and the two car garage at

www.TampaBayMetro.com

the guest house.

As an ideal mother-in-law home, the guest house connects to the main home with a covered walkway and has four bedrooms and four full and 2 half baths, study, two kitchens and two fireplaces.

Outside, enjoy complete privacy in the lagoon-style pool and spa, or relax in the shade under the large covered patio and deck areas. The manicured lawns and mature landscaping add to the serenity and peaceful, lakeside estate. M Located in the prestigious gated community of Avila in Hillsborough County, this property is currently offered at $6,495,000 through Smith & Associates.

Contact Dina Sierra Smith at 813-839-3800 or visit www.16229villarrealdeavila.smithandassociates.com.

How To Spend An Hour Or Two With Your Most Valuable Customer.

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By Mary Lou Janson

Great Tips To Getting And Staying Fit After The Holidays

By Mary Lou Janson

Too many temptations, too many celebrations and, perhaps, a few too many libations can make for a holiday that plays havoc with our waistlines and our bottom lines, as in weight gains.

Fortunately, the start of the New Year lets us mentally reboot as we commit to healthier eating habits and reinvigorate — even resuscitate — our workout routines.

To help you start fresh, right past wrongs and get back on track, three local fitness professionals have some tips to help you get — and hopefully stay — fit.

Karen Bittinger Certified Trainer, Vibe Fit Club www.vibefitclub.com Karen Bittinger is completing her third season as a member of the Tampa Bay Buccaneer’s cheerleading squad. Bittinger is a certified BODYATTACK™ instructor (an interval training class that combines aerobic movement with strength and stabilization exercises), as well as a personal trainer certified through the National Academy of Sports Medicine (NASM). She teaches and trains at Vibe Fit Club in Tampa.

Find a New Way to Get Fit “It’s easy to get into an exercise rut and return to working out the same way you have for awhile because it’s familiar, you’ve made friends with people in class, or you feel comfortable with the instructor. Why not shake things up a bit and try something new? You

may find switching from one type of exercise to another gives you better results and makes working out fun again.

Research shows that high intensity, short duration workouts can be even more beneficial than running on a treadmill for an hour. But, it’s important

to find a certified fitness professional who knows their trade well. Not only will that provide motivation, but with the help of someone who can coach you to use the correct form, you are likely to avoid injury and see real improvement.”

Tim Ganley Founder of Yoga Energy Studio, Strength & Movement Fitness and KaYoga www.yogaenergy.me A Certified Master Trainer, 500E-Registered Yoga Teacher, flexibility technician and nutrition specialist, Tim Ganley owns the Yoga Energy Studio in downtown St. Petersburg. His expertise includes private and group training as well as professional Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) instruction to guides and SUP yoga teachers. Ganley is certified by the International Sports Sciences Association, National Alliance of Fitness Professionals and the American Institute of Fitness Educators.

Gradual Change for Maximum Gain â&#x20AC;&#x153;After 20 years of training people, I recommend starting with a very simple program so that you can easily progress. A successful fitness program includes exercise and healthy eating.

We tell our clients that, no matter what dietary restrictions or sensitivities they

may have, to eat as organically as possible. That includes coffee. A good rule of thumb is to include a good source of protein, good fats and mostly fibrous carbohydrates, particularly for breakfast and preferably for all meals. After a good breakfast

becomes part of your routine, we work on better lunches and suppers.

As your overall health and eating habits improve, you will be ready to commit to at least two half-hour, or so, fitness sessions a week before adding sessions.â&#x20AC;?

Lauren McComb Owner, Pure Barre Tampa and Pure Barre St. Pete www.purebarre.com Growing up in Sarasota, Lauren McComb always has followed a healthy, active lifestyle from a young age. After working as a financial consultant for several years, she realized a career in fitness was her true calling. A certified Pure Barre instructor, McComb owns Pure Barre Studios in the Tampa Bay area.

Plan on Success â&#x20AC;&#x153;You want a routine that keeps you motivated, excited and results-driven.

Once you get into a routine it becomes a habit. It can be easy to get off your routine during the holiday season and moving into the New Year. You have to hold yourself

accountable. My best advice is to schedule your workouts and stick to your schedule. A tip I would like to share, and that I have found works, is to sit down every Sunday night with your planner and schedule your workouts for the week. Schedule them

as you would schedule a business meeting, show up early and be ready to rock and roll! With challenge comes change. If you are consistently challenging yourself then you are going to continue to see results.â&#x20AC;? M

Compiled By Ronda M. Parag

There is no doubt the Tampa Bay area is a great place to live, work and play and at METRO we've uncovered and discovered a few favorites in arts & entertainment, shopping, dining, health & beauty, home design and dining & spirits.

Chihuly Collection â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Morean Arts Center Best Center for Colorful Glass View the colorful glass works of Dale Chihuly at the gallery on Beach Drive, or visit the Glass Studio & Hot Shop to learn the latest techniques of glass blowing.

727.896.4572 or www.moreanartscenter.org.

Left Page: Dale Chihuly - Mille Fiori, Photo by Al Hurley, Chihuly Collection at Moreen Arts Center; Right Page: Salvador Dalí Museum – by Mike Dupre; Florida Museum of Photographic Art, The Cube North – by Chip Weiner

Learn about military history from WW1 to the present at this informative and interactive museum with engaging, educational exhibits and artifacts from WWII, the Korean War, Vietnam and the Cold War. 727.539.8371; www.armedforcesmuseum.com.

Tampa Museum of Art Best Public Art Museum

Tampa Theatre Best Classic Date Night

Designed by architect, Stanley Saitowitz, the shimmering aluminum exterior and LED light installation serves as the cornerstone of Tampa’s art culture. Enjoy Art on the House each Friday from 4 - 8pm, with pay-as-you-will admission. Sono Café offers a great spot for light dining and drinks.

813.274.8130; www.tampamuseum.org.

Built in 1926, this historic movie palace flourishes with romance and its nighttime painted ceiling with twinkling stars. Enjoy classic and contemporary art films.

813.274.8981; www.tampatheatre.org.

The Leepa-Rattner Museum of Art Best Contemporary Museum in Pinellas County Located on the campus of St. Petersburg College, this museum includes works by Abraham Rattner and modern art by Ester Gentle and Allen Leepa, as well as, Pablo Picasso, Henry Moore, and Marc Chagall.

Call 727.712.5762; www.spcollege.edu/central/museum.

Florida Craftsmen Gallery Best Display of Fine Craft Artists Celebrating nearly 62 years of Fine Crafts, artists from around the state display their art for sale in the gift shop, as well as the gallery with changing exhibitions.

727.821.7391; www.floridacraftsmen.net.

USF Contemporary Art Museum Best Contemporary Art Museum in Hillsborough County Located on the campus of the University of South Florida, the museum brings contemporary exhibits from artists around the world and raises awareness of current cultural trends.

813.974.4133; www.ira.usf.edu/CAM.

The Studio@620 Best Community Art House Created in 2004 to bring a variety of art forms and people of different cultural backgrounds together, the programming and opportunities still continue to provide unique and creative explorations of theatre and art to the Tampa Bay area.

727.895.6620; www.thestudioat620.org.

Baisden Gallery Best Local Art Gallery This urban gallery across from the University of Tampa, features rotating exhibitions for contemporary glass artists, painters and photographers including Derek Gores, Steve Jensen and Alberto Murillo, as well as other national and international artists.

813.250.1511 or www.baisdengallery.com.

Straz Center for the Performing Arts Best Theater Experience Enjoy Opera Tampa, Broadway performances, concerts and shows in five unique theaters. DIne at Maestro’s Restaurant or Cafe before the show, and stroll down the beautiful Riverwalk after a performance to cap off an elegant evening of the arts.

813.229.7827; www.strazcenter.org.

Salvador Dalí Museum

Salvador Dalí Museum Best Surreal Museum

The Mahaffey Theater Best Bayside Theater

Don’t miss the upcoming Andy Warhol exhibit opening January 18, along with the more than 2,140 pieces of Salvador Dalí’s work; the museum houses the largest collection outside of Spain.

727.823.3767 or www.thedali.org.

European box-style seating and views overlooking the St. Petersburg waterfront, make this theater optimal for watching top quality performing artists of music, dance, comedy and theater. It’s also the home in St. Petersburg for The Florida Orchestra.

727.892.5767; www.mahaffeytheater.com.

Museum of Fine Arts Best Comprehensive Collection

Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo Best Animals and Attractions

The permanent collection offers works by Cezanne, Renoir, Georgia O’Keefe and Monet. For an extra treat, enjoy lunch in the MFA Café, or the special musical events hosted by the museum throughout the year. 727.896.2667; www.fine-arts.org.

Get an up-close view of zebras, giraffes, tigers, elephants, koalas, and hippos at this world-renowned zoo with more than 1,500 animals.

813.935.8552; www.lowryparkzoo.com.

The Palladium Theater at St. Petersburg College Best Showcase of Music Variety

The Florida Aquarium Best Wildlife Encounter The perfect place to swim with fish, meet

penguins, dive with sharks and see stingrays and sea turtles. Kids will have a blast in the outside water play area - Explore A Shore.

813.273.4000; www.flaquarium.org.

Florida Holocaust Museum Best Museum to Honor and Educate Honoring the millions of innocent people who died in the Holocaust, the museum dedicates itself to teaching the importance of human life. 727.820.0100; www.flholocaustmuseum.org.

The Glazer Children’s Museum Best Place to Let the Kids Play

Arts & Entertainment

Armed Forces History Museum Best Military Artifacts

It’s a place to let the kids run, play and learn, at the 170 interactive areas with 12 themed areas. When they are done inside, let them continue the fun outside at Curtis Hixon Park. 813.443.3861 or www.glazermuseum.org.

Tampa Bay Times Forum Best Multi-Purpose Venue From Lightning hockey games to the upcoming classic Billy Joel, the Tampa Bay Times Forum hosts over 150 different events held annually. 813.301.6500; visit www.tampabaytimesforum.com.

Florida Museum of Photographic Art Best In Pictures Inside the iconic Cube at Rivergate Plaza, the FMoPA houses a variety of photographic art by national and local artists.

A variety of workshops, classes and programs are offered in photography.

813.221.2222; www.fmopa.org.

Florida Museum of Photographic Art, “The Cube”

The Palladium’s line up of artistic and musical acts includes jazz, blues, pop and opera.

Check the online calendar for a variety of musical talents that will feed the soul.

727.822.3590; www.mypalladium.org.

Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino Best Play and Stay Operating 24/7, 365 days a year, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino is the sixth largest in the world with over 5,000 slots and 118 live-action game tables to choose from, nine dining options that will satisfy any taste you desire, and luxurious rock star accommodations. 1.866.502.PLAY; www.seminolehardrocktampa.com.

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Penelope T Best On Trend Shop

The Pink Palm Best Shop For All Things Lilly

Known for the personal service and designer fashions by Helmut Lang, Alice + Olivia, Milly, Escada, Elizabeth and James and Trina Turk. The shop is also pet friendly.

Call 813.805.2060; www.paradiseislandboutique.com.

Since 2005, this women’s boutique offers modern, stylish dresses, jeans and accessories for those seeking the latest trends.

813.254.5740; www.penelopetboutique.com.

Discover the cool, chic, colorful designs of Lilly Pulitzer at The Pink Palm. They are ideal throughout the year in Tampa to dress classic and preppy.

877.242.9718; www.pinkpalmflorida.com.

Meredith Haws Best Local Jewelry Designer Inspired by her travels, Meredith Haws creates unique, one-of-a-kind fashionable necklaces, bracelets and earrings using colorful and exotic stones and rare found items. Available at Deborah Kent’s or online. 813.992.5395; www.meredithhawsjewelry.com.

Urban Body Best Contemporary Boutique

Tresca Italia Best Jeweled Sandals Shop owner, Lori Gibson, has traveled extensively to Italy, and discovered the beautiful jeweled Capri sandal that is the cornerstone of this boutique. Unique color combinations and heel height are custom fitted on site by cobbler, Francesco.

813.251.6617; www.trescaitalia.com.

Owner, Scott Moore, dresses some of Tampa’s most stylish men, including many Buccaneer and Lightning players with club wear, t-shirts and a selection of jeans, shorts and beach wear. Located on Howard Avenue in Tampa.

813.251.5522; www.urbanbody.com.

Love That!

Best Famous Accessories Statement pieces are sure to get you noticed with the glitz and glam jewelry designs from Otazu, Virgin Saints and Angels and Gypsy. The perfect shop to find trendy dresses and accessories.

813.902.0500; www.lovethatonline.com.

Reeves Import Motorcars Best Place To Pick Up Your Dream Ride Whether dreaming of a new Porsche, Audi or BMW, the family owned and operated dealership, provides exceptional sales and service for the most desired luxury brands in the market. Automotive lines include Maserati, Porsche, Subaru, Audi, BMW, Land Rover and Volkswagen.

813.933.281; www.reevesimportmotorcars.com.

La France Best Vintage Clothing Step back in time at one of Tampa’s original vintage shops located on 7th Avenue in Ybor. Open for 40 years, La France features a wide selection of vintage clothes, accessories and hats to create a look from the past, and ideal for the next costume or themed party.

813.248.1381; follow on Facebook.

Mosh Posh Best Designer Consignment For all things luxury, Mosh Posh carries a large selection of consigned handbags, jewelry, clothing and shoes, both in-store and online from your favorite luxury stores.

Designers include Chanel, Louis Vuitton, Jimmy Choo and more, and all items are guaranteed 100 percent authentic.

813.258.8800; www.mymoshposh.com.

{a} Haley Boutique Best Contemporary Fashions

Reeves Import Motorcars — Porsche Showroom

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Outstanding customer service and the most stylish trends of the season, will be found inside this gem of a boutique in South Tampa. Find fashionable styles of women’s clothing, accessories, shoes and gifts.

813.207.0400; www.facebook.com/ahaleyboutique.

JC’s Boutique

JC’s Boutique Best Affordable Fashions From LA to Miami, owner Catarina Whitwell travels the country to bring back the most fashionable trends to her south Tampa Boutique. Find the latest trends without spending a fortune in a fun, friendly atmosphere. Wine is served on most Fridays. Stop in and pick up a stylish outfit for the weekend. 813.205.1841; www.jcsboutique.com.

Lululemon Best Workout Wear For exercise enthusiasts, the cult-like followers of Lululemon enjoy the well designed, well styled athletic wear designed with function, comfort and style in mind. Enjoy complimentary yoga every Sunday morning in the Tampa Hyde Park Village store. 813.251.2640; www.lululemon.com/tampa/hydeparkvillage .

Lending Luxury Best Place to Rent a Designer Dress Look like a million bucks without spending a fortune on a designer gown by renting, rather than buying, your next special occasion dress. Lending Luxury will ship the dress directly to your door, and then you simply return it within five days.

1.800.403.9848; www.lendingluxury.com.

RIGHT PAGE: Tony Bowls Emerald Gown, © Tony Bowls

Shopping

Paradise Island Best Couture Boutique

Georgette’s Boutique & Shoe Salon Best Special Occasion Dress Salon A dress for any special occasion in the latest styles, or for that black tie gala, are available at Georgette’s.

There is even a register to keep track of the dresses so they won’t sell the same gown, to girls going to prom or homecoming from the same school.

813.254.1141; www.georgettesfashions.com

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Spa Indaba Best Pampering at a Golf Resort Tranquillity and serenity are just inside at Indaba Spa, with a variety of treatments to reconnect the mind and body. Relax in the mediation labyrinth, or relax in the courtyard after a dip in the whirlpool bath or steam room. 727.942.5258; www.innisbrookgolfresort.com.

Glowie & Glow Couture Day Spa Best Spa to De-Stress

For unwanted hair, schedule a wax from one of three Pia’s locations in South Tampa, St. Petersburg or Westchase.

Feel smooth and flawless for weeks. Try out a relaxing massage or the perfect mani/pedi.

813.831.2418; www.bypia.com.

Treat yourself to a pampering massage or customized skincare treatment, and then shop inside the small boutique filled with quality skincare products, candles, clothing and other unique gift items.

813.832.8000; www.glowdayspatampa.com.

Blowbar Express Styling Salon Best Place to Get Hair Looking Good Fast

Salon Jack Best Celebrity Cut Chad Malm, owner, has coiffed his share of celebrity clients, and he has a staff that is trained to treat every client like a celeb. From a cut, color or blow dry, the stylists put passion into each client’s desired look.

813.831.8955; www.salonjack.com.

Health & Beauty

Pia Esthetics Day Spa & Body Shop Best Wax In Town

Specializing in only blowouts, no cuts or color, it is easy to get the hair looking good in a hurry. Great place to also host a girl’s birthday party or small event.

813.876.2569; www.blowbarexpress.com.

SoHo Cycling Studio Best Place to Ride into Health

Spa Sundara Best Spa Facial An escape for the body, as well as the soul, awaits inside Spa Sundara. Owner, Edyta Chylinski has created a sanctuary with delightful facial, massage and Reiki energy balancing services.

813.837.4300; www.spasundara.com.

You Glow Spray Tan Best Place To Get A Healthy Glow Avoid the sun and help protect the skin with a healthy alternative for tanning at You Glow. With two convenient locations in South Tampa and Lutz/Wesley Chapel, there is no excuse to not have that sunkissed glow this winter.

813.876.4560 - South Tampa; 813.949.4000 - Lutz; www.youglowspraytan.com.

Crave

Sandpearl Spa

Sandpearl Spa Best Inside Escape at the Beach Enjoy the sanctuary and soothing treatments at Clearwater’s Sandpearl Spa. The variety of treatments will clear the mind and heal the body.

772.674.4140 or www.sandpearl.com.

Getting healthy is easier than ever at SoHo Cycling. Sign up for indoor classes online and be prepared to sweat, while enjoying a virtual ride listening to music videos and lead by passionate instructors.

813.944.3044; www.sohocyclingstudio.com.

Vibe Fit Club Best 30 Minute Workout Get into shape with an inspiring, quick workout at Vibe Fit Club. Featuring the Power PlateTM machine, you’ll get an hour’s workout in just 30 minutes time. Sign up for classes online and then be prepared to get your sweat on.

813-433-0444; www.vibefitclub.com.

Spa Jardin Best Relaxation Spa Feel the stress melt away in the private outdoor oasis, or enjoy an indoor treatment with a signature massage, facial or pedicure. Upon opening the door, the heavenly scent will transport you into another place and time. A fine selection of gifts are available.

813.835.9549; www.spajardin.com.

Crave Best Natural Spa

LA Fitness Best Mega-Health Club

Only the finest ingredients and parabenfree products are used at this environmentally friendly nail spa, with cleanliness and safety as its main focus. Walk-ins are always welcome at the two locations in South Tampa and New Tampa.

813.837.2600; www.cravespa.com.

With 10 locations in the Tampa Bay area and the newest signature club in south Tampa, La Fitness offers state-of-the art equipment, group fitness classes, pool, sauna spa, kids club and juice bar. It’s time to get healthy.

813.775.6492; www.lafitness.com.

Power PlateTM Exercise at Vibe Fit Club

December|January 2014

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Home Design

being Best Chic Home Designs Owner Amy Bromley has created a shop filled with inspiration. From furniture to lighting and accessories, being offers a wide selection of casual designs for easy living. Design services are offered and there is a large selection of candles, jewelry and home fragrances for the perfect gifts.

727.822.6252; www.shopbeing.com.

Clayton Gray Home Best Inspired Home Décor It began as an online business, but since then, owner Wendy Garraty expanded with a storefront earlier this year on Kennedy Blvd. to showcase unique and creative designs with accessories, mirrors, furniture, lighting and pillows.

813.250.3662; www.claytongrayhome.com.

The Container Store Best Place to Get Organized Opened in early 2013, The Container Store can create organization out of chaos. From the kitchen to the home office, there are literally thousands of items to get your home organized.

813.774.4060; www.containerstore.com.

being

Magnolia

BoConcept Tampa Best Mod Home Décor

Silver Queen Best Place Setting

With its fresh lines and modern appeal, BoConcept offers a wide variety of furniture for the living room, bedroom and dining area. For contemporary, modern accessories stop in to visit the showroom on Kennedy Blvd. in the Channel District.

813.314.0800; www.boconcept.com.

Whether it is a wedding, baby shower or birthday, find the perfect gift for any occasion with a wide selection of silver, china and crystal. 800.262.3134; www.silverqueen.com.

Seaside Home Accents & Gifts Best Shop for Beach Charm Find the perfect home accessory from pillows, to rugs and furniture inside this charming cottage on MacDill Avenue, filled with soothing colors and wispy scents reminiscent of relaxation and carefree beach days. 813.839.4544; www.seasideinteriors.com.

Robyn Story Designs & Boutique Best Trendy Home and Fashion Décor

The Container Store

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A hidden gem in North Tampa offering a wide array of home decor and gift items for the fashion conscious. Find beautiful custom silk florals to artwork and jewelry, bling and accessories, including hard to find Chalk Paint®.

813.931.9307; www.robynstorydesigns.com.

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Magnolia Best Unique Finds for the Home

Casa Nova Design Group Best Unique Home Fashions

Tucked into a historic building in South Tampa, Magnolia offers an array of eclectic home furnishings, lighting and accessories and gift items for women and kids. 813.254.3337; www.magnoliainspiringinteriors.com.

Offering home interiors, artwork, lighting, gifts and accessories with eclectic, one-of-a-kind home décor. Design s ervices are available to help create a personalized space. 813.837.8282; www.casanovadesigngroup.com.

Casa Nova Design Group

The Blue Moon Trading Company Best Unique Vintage Furniture Finds Stocked with refurbished and found pieces from chairs, to tables, and all things interior, owner Katie Gagnon hunts for the perfect finds of distinctive furniture, lighting and accessories to make a house a home.

813.839.2056; www.thebluemoontradingcompany.com

Mandarin Hide Best Cocktail Culture Tucked between two other bars on Central Avenue, it might be easy to miss this St. Petersburg gem, but donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t. You might just find your new home away from home.

727.231.4007; www.mandarinhide.com.

Dunedin Brewery Best Local Microbrewery

From the handmade pastas to the gourmet pizzas, Bavaro’s offers up a piece of Old World Italy in a small, quaint restaurant in downtown Tampa. 813.868.4440; www.bavarostampa.com.

Cut to order from the on-site butcher shop, the prime dry-aged steaks are aged between 21 - 28 days and melt in your mouth. 813.627.7628; www.seminolehardrocktampa.com/tamparestaurants/council-oak.

The Dunedin Brewery has been passionately brewing beer since 1996 as the oldest microbrewery in Florida.

727.736.0606 or www.dunedinbrewery.com.

Cafe Ponte Best Diverse Cuisine

Caretta On The Gulf Best Dining With Sunset View

The menu is updated seasonally and chef and owner, Christopher Ponte, continues to offer tantalizing dishes at his Clearwater restaurant. Open for lunch and dinner.

727.538.5768; www.cafeponte.com.

Enjoy a magnificent sunset every night at Carretta, located inside the stunning Sandpearl Resort. For an extra special treat, don’t miss the Sunday brunch with an array of fresh seafood from the raw bar.

727.441.2425; www.carettaonthegulf.com.

BellaBrava: New World Trattoria Best Italian on Beach Drive Enjoy European-style dining outside with a delicious menu of pastas, meats, seafoods and pizzas, or cozy-up inside for its claim of longest happy hour on Beach Drive. 727.895.5515; www.bellabrava.com.

Oxford Exchange

Oxford Exchange Best Lunching Atmosphere Between the shop, Tebella Tea Bar and bookstore, Oxford Exchange serves up a delicious menu for a mid-day meal. Our favorites are the lobster BLT or Chicken Burger. The décor is stunning and it’s the newest hot spot for breakfast, lunch or afternoon tea.

813.253-0222; www.oxfordexchange.com.

Edison: Food + Drink Lab Best Creative Cuisine

Wicked ‘Wiches Food Truck

Wicked ‘Wiches Best Food Truck The food truck craze continues and Wicked ‘Wiches, which started in July 2011, serves up the best american, barbecue, burgers, cubans and other delicious portable pockets.

813.369.9120; www.wickedwiches.com.

Eddie V’s Prime Seafood Best New Seafood Restaurant Eddie V’s serves only the highest quality seafood and meats and uses the freshest ingredients available. With live jazz music seven nights a week, the bar is a great place to relax with a cocktail and enjoy the scene.

813.877.7290; www.eddiev.com.

CopperFish Seafood Grill & Oyster Bar Best Wood Hearth Roasted Fish Begin with the freshest oysters from the gulf and both coasts, and enjoy your favorite fish prepared in the roasted oven.

813.251.6789; www.copperfishtampa.com.

Like the genius the restaurant was named after, Chef Pierola and her team have created a unique and interesting blend of flavors, to provide guests a gastronomic delight with a menu that changes frequently. 813.254.7111; www.edison-tampa.com.

Armani’s Best Terrace View Scenic views from the 14th floor inside the Grand Hyatt never disappoint, and neither does the Northern Italian cuisine at Armani’s. 813.207.6800; www.grandhyatttampabay.com/restaurants.

Ciro’s Speakeasy & Supper Club Best Hand-Crafted Cocktails in Tampa

Boca Hyde Park Best Rustic Farm Charm Using local ingredients whenever possible, Boca embodies the farm to table food concept. The rustic interior is casual, yet chic, and is a great place for cocktails or enjoy a meal with friends.

Open for lunch and dinner.

813.254.7070 or www.bocatampa.com.

Marchand’s Bar & Grill Best Special Occasion Dining Located inside the Renaissance Vinoy Resort, this elegant restaurant provides a sophisticated atmosphere and dining experience for that special occasion.

727.824.8072 or www.marchandsbarandgrill.com.

Tryst Gastro Lounge Best Place to Rendezvous for Cocktails on Beach The chic and fashionable crowd gather to enjoy a small plate or a delicious bowl of the signature chowder, or partake in one of the 27 draft beers and 180 bottles or handcrafted cocktails. Call 727.821.4567 or visit www.trystgastrolounge.com.

Bern’s Steakhouse Best Classic Dining

From pasta to steaks, this SOHO restaurant serves up a delicious menu of best of Italy and the Pacific Rim. Owner, Michael Stewart gives back generously with Celebrity Bartending Nights to raise money for local charities.

813.250.1661 or www.717south.com.

Experience the art in steak as the culinary team prepares a steak exactly the way you like it, or choose a plate with your favorite cheeses from two in-house cheese caves. Dessert in the Harry Waugh Dessert Room, where private booths and an after-dinner atmosphere will tantalize taste buds is a must. 813.251.2421; www.bernssteakhouse.com.

The Capital Grille Best Dry-Aged Steak

Mise en Place Best Modern American Cuisine

Wine and dine in an elegant setting, while enjoying nationally renowned dry-aged steaks. Make a selection from the more than 5,000 bottle wine list for the perfect pairing. 813.830.9433 or www.thecapitalgrille.com.

Ever changing with the times, owners Chef Marty Blitz and Maryann Ferenc, constantly evolve and innovate their offerings. For 27 years, Mise en Place has been a Bay area staple on the dining scene.

813.254.5373; www.miseonline.com.

717 South Best South Tampa Spot

Dining & Spirits

Council Oak Steaks & Seafood Best Steakhouse Inside a Casino

Bavaro’s Pizza Napoletana & Pastaria Best Old World Italian

Using techniques of a by-gone era, Ciro’s offers delightful and delicious cocktails created by bartenders who are passionate about their spirits.

813.251.0022; www.cirostampa.com.

Cigar City Brewing Best Locally Brewed Beer A tribute to the once Jai Alai frontons that sported the game from the Basque region of Spain, and played in the Tampa Bay Area.

Cigar City Brewing came up with a brew, Jai Alai India Pale Ale, to honor the past.

813.348.6363 ext. 206; www.cigarcitybrewing.com.

Armani’s Terrace View

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Square 1 Best Burger Mix

Parkshore Grill Best Sidewalk Cafe

With locations in Tampa, Brandon and now St. Pete, this burger joint offers savory burgers made with Angus beef, lamb, turkey, buffalo and chicken and more than 25 different topping options.

Tampa - 813.414.0101, Brandon - 813.689-1611, St. Pete - 727.345.1011 or visit www.square1burgers.com.

Join Chef Tyson Grant for brunch, lunch, dinner or dessert. Your taste buds will enjoy any of the delicious, organic meals that he prepares.

727.896.9463; www.parkshoregrill.com.

Cru Cellars

The Refinery Best Revolving Menu Every Thursday, Chef Greg Baker changes the menu to reflect food that is fresh from local farmers, and in season, so that high quality food can be prepared for everyone to enjoy.

813.237.2000; www.thetamparefinery.com.

Wine Exchange Best Wine and Dine

Ceviche

Ceviche Best Tapas in Town On both sides of the Bay, enjoy over 100 different hot and cold tapas, from garlic and olives, to oxtail and chicken livers.

Relax while sipping a glass of exclusive wine or sangria. 813.250.0203 for the Tampa location or visit www.ceviche.com.

Cru Cellars Best Boutique Wine Bar Dine under the stars and share a small plate in the Wine Garden, or choose one of nearly 30 wines by the glass. Browse through the wine shop and receive suggestions with focus on personal service.

813.831.1117; www.crucellarstampa.com.

Located in Hyde Park Village, this bistro and wine bar offers a European experience with over 40 different wines and an inspired cuisine of pizzas, salads and pasta.

813.254.9463; www.wineexchangetampa.com.

Datz Best Foodie Fix Ever evolving, Datz mixes up the menu to provide delicious comfort food and events for local foodies for breakfast, lunch and dinner. From classic mouth-watering sandwiches, including Cue the Brisket and Birds of a Feather – a delicious chicken salad – to the great wine bar and craft beers on tap.

813.831.7000; www.datztampa.com.

Ella’s Folk Art Cafe Best Sunday Afternoon Escape

Datz

The perfect blend of sophisticated dining and Mexican food awaits at Wiregrass Mall.

With only the freshest meats and ingredients served, try the guacamole made tableside.

813.907.3068; www.cantinalaredo.com.

December|January 2014

Salt Rock Grill Best Seafood Dining Located in Indian Shores, this restaurant is the place to go for fresh, local seafood, offering one of the best wine cellars on the beach.

727.593.7625; www.saltrockgrill.com.

An Ybor City culinary delight since 1905, and six other Florida locations, Columbia offers the best of Spanish cuisine including the famed 1905 salad, chicken and yellow rice. Tampa - 813.248.4961 or www.columbiarestaurant.com.

Along Tampa’s downtown Riverwalk enjoy great food, music and views. This urban oasis is pet-friendly even offering complimentary dog bones and water dishes.

813.373.1193; www.sailpavilion.com.

The Undertow is the place to chow down on fried seafood and teriyaki wings under the sun deck, then sink your feet into the St. Pete beach sand and enjoy the gorgeous sunset.

727.368.9000; www.undertowbeachbar.com.

Take a trip into Lebanese culture by enjoying authentic cuisine and lively belly dancing every Saturday night.

813.805.7977; www.bybloscafe.com.

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Hula Bay Club Best Laid-Back Eatery Between the water views, island-inspired cuisine, and cool pool, Hula Bay is the perfect getaway for lunch, dinner and drinks. 813.837.4852; www.hulabayclub.com.

New flavors constantly evolve, as Chef Zack Gross changes and makes additions at this hip and trendy restaurant in downtown St. Petersburg, serving up creative food for brunch, lunch and dinner. Try the Snickers waffle for brunch, or classic Dr. Pepper BBQ ribs.

727.822.9600; www.zgrille.net.

Undertow Best Wings On The Beach

Byblos Cafe Best Mediterranean Cuisine

hand-crafted cocktail from the bar.

813.258.2233; www.sideberns.com.

Z Grille Best Creative Cuisine

Sail Pavilion Best Downtown Tampa Oasis

Cantina Laredo

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A hidden treasure of culinary delights, Pelagia offers great salads, sandwiches, homemade pastas, and stone-oven pizzas.

Under the direction of Chef Brett Gardiner, Pelagia is tucked inside the Renaissance International Plaza Hotel.

813.313.3253; www.pelagiatrattoria.com.

Columbia Restaurant Best Spanish Cuisine

Soul food Sundays at the cafe is a great place to eat and jam. Experiment with new combinations, such as fried chicken and waffles or chocolate covered bacon while listening to live music. 813.234.1000; www.ellasfolkartcafe.com.

Cantina Laredo Best Sophisticated Mexican

Pelagia Trattoria Best Modern Italian

SideBern’s Best New World Cuisine Executive Chef Chad Johnson creates a tantalizing blend of fusion flavors using duck, veal, seafood and beef. Enjoy a

Ocean Prime

Ocean Prime Best Piano Bar & Outdoor Scene Enjoy an elegant night out on the town with the hand-crafted Cucumber Gimlet and Ahi Tuna Tartar appetizer, either in the piano bar or outside patio.

813.490.5288; www.oceanprimetampa.com.

The Canopy at The Birchwood Best Rooftop Bar The hippest scene on Beach Drive in St. Petersburg is at the new Birchwood Hotel’s rooftop bar – The Canopy with its private cabanas, fire pits and casual dining space. The views are tremendous and the hand-crafted cocktails use only fresh, local ingredients.

727.896.1080; www.thebirchwood.com.

Skipper’s Smokehouse Best Eclectic Music Venue and Eatery After chowing down on fried gator tail or smoked salmon, step into the backyard concert area, the Skipperdome, to enjoy live music that ranges from blues to reggae.

813.971.0666; www.skipperssmokehouse.com.

METROFamily People

Parenting App With Safety in Mind Meet Robyn Spoto

By Ronda M. Parag

A

s a mother and co-founder of a technology company, Robyn Spoto is passionate about helping parents navigate the ever-changing digital landscape, with a tool to assist in keeping their children safe. Launched in August 2012, the

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MamaBear App recently reached its 100,000 download and is helping to give parents peace of mind and their children the freedom they are demanding. Robyn Spoto, president, was one of the original team along with Steve MacDonald, Stuart Kime and

www.TampaBayMetro.com

Tom Cardy that created MamaBear App. Their goal was to use location technology to help parents track their child’s location, monitor social media and even alert parents on driving speeds. “It allows children to stretch their limits, while providing parents a communication tool with safety in mind,” said Spoto.

“As new parents, we buy expensive car seats and baby-proof the entire house, and it’s our instinct to keep our children safe. The MamaBear App does that as our children grow,” said Spoto.

The target for the MamaBear App is middle school families. “During the tween years, kids want to have more sleepovers, expand their circle of friends and are entering social media and building their digital reputations.

It is important to be able to have conversations with your children,” said Spoto.

Born and raised in the Tampa Bay area, Spoto received her undergraduate degree from the University of South Florida and her MBA from the University of Tampa. Spoto says Tampa is her home and she loves spending time by the water and enjoys taking her family to theme parks in Orlando.

“People save for years to come to Orlando, and it is right in our own backyard.” With the cooler temperatures, Spoto also plans downtime in her own backyard around the fire pit, by roasting marshmallows and making s’mores with her husband, Brian and their two boys, Vincent, 9 and Dean, 7.

“During the holiday season, many children will be receiving smart phones as gifts, MamaBear is the gift that keeps on giving,” said Spoto. “It’s a new world and we provide the tools parents need to save time and offer piece of mind.” M

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The McIlwain Family

By Mary Lou Janson

Berkeley Preparatory School www.berkeleyprep.org

Mike and Cristina McIlwain are proud graduates and advocates of two of Tampa’s stellar private schools, Berkeley Preparatory School and the Academy of Holy Names. So when the time came to select a school for their daughter Ella, they faced a tough choice.

After carefully considering their schools, along with other public and private options, Berkeley Prep emerged the forerunner.

Today, Ella, seven, is a first grader and brother Grayson, five, is following in the family footsteps by attending kindergarten at Berkeley Prep. Three-year-old Lucia will join her siblings on campus when she is older.

Dr. Mike McIlwain vividly recalls how his years at Berkeley enabled him to build life-long friendships, excel at athletics — as a senior, he was selected Florida Soccer Player of the Year — and learn in a highly supportive, well integrated environment.

That valued experience was shared with three sisters and a brother, who graduated from there as well. He remains such a champion of the school that he often volunteers for events and provides professional mentoring to high school students.

“The staff and faculty are very family-oriented. They make sure everyone feels comfortable and treat everyone’s kids like they are second parents to those kids; and that’s how our children feel about them,” said Dr. McIlwain, of McIlwain Dentistry, a practice and partnership he runs with an uncle and cousin.

The medical field has proved to be a family affair with sisters, Dr. Laura Cruse and Dr. Kim Smith, working alongside their father at McIlwain Medical Group. Evidence that Berkeley enables graduates to prepare for college and beyond, McIlwain noted.

It took a bit of convincing before Cristina was persuaded to cast her parental vote. “The second I stepped foot on campus, I instantly felt at home there. It is easy to be impressed with the campus but the true magic of Berkeley is more behind the scenes,” she said. “We had such an amazing experience Ella’s first year. But she and her brother have very different styles and personalities. It sealed the deal for me to see how well the teachers hone in on each child to determine what works for them and how to instill a love of learning in everyone.”

After serving as homeroom mom for both her daughter’s and son’s kindergarten classes, Cristina knows firsthand how well the teachers make sure everyone is learning at their individual levels, never limiting a child’s progress or letting them fall behind. She also observed how students are taught early on to be respectful of each other and make sure no one feels left out.

“When you see your kids loving to learn, excited to go to school, leaping out of the car and running to give their teachers a hug, you know you made the right decision.”

Founded in 1960, Berkeley is located on a beautiful 80-acre campus in the Town ‘n Country suburb of Tampa. Students from Pre-K through grade 12 engage in a vigorous, balanced course load at every grade level to prepare them for college, as well as provide intellectual, emotional, spiritual and physical development.

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Shorecrest Preparatory School www.shorecrest.org

After being named the new Shorecrest Preparatory School athletic director in 2008, Tripp Welborne and his family eagerly made the long distance move from the suburbs of Minneapolis to St. Petersburg.

Joining the faculty of the independent school was a dream come true for Tripp but he and Christy still faced the difficult decision of determining where their two children would enroll. Daughter Dylan, age 6 when the family relocated, was ready to start first grade. Her younger brother Rayce, then age three, was eligible to enter a class geared for three-year-olds.

After researching and reviewing multiple options, Shorecrest emerged as the leader. Tripp and Christy felt the faculty could provide an exceptional educational experience. Shorecrest also offered an environment that encourages students to cultivate their ability to be independent thinkers who analyze, not just memorize, one of the couple’s most important criteria for their selection process.

The experienced teaching staff, comprehensive curriculum, academic achievements, focus on arts to athletics and interactive technology available to students, gave the Welbornes confidence their children would flourish at Shorecrest while preparing for the future.

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“Neither of us assumed Shorecrest was where our children would attend school. If it was not a good environment and not in line with our principles and standards, then it would not be right for them,” said Christy. “What matters most to us is the end product and what we are preparing our children to become.”

“As parents, we want them to learn, but we also want them to become critical thinkers, problem solvers and responsible individuals,” said Christy. “It’s all about developing a well-rounded, well-balanced, well prepared child.”

Not only has Shorecrest been a great professional choice for Tripp, and scholastic environment for their now fifth grade student, Dylan, and second grader, Rayce, it’s also provided Christy with a new career. Three years ago she joined the administrative staff as the school’s assistant director of admissions.

“I understand the concerns parents have for bringing their children to school for the first time,” said Christy. “I can offer some comfort by sharing my experiences as a parent and let them know I have lived through their concerns.”

Shorecrest is located on a 28-acre campus in St. Petersburg. It offers a strong college preparatory program that includes 24 Advanced Placement courses. Total enrollment is nearly 1,000 students (pre-kindergarten through 12th grade). One hundred percent of its seniors are accepted to college.

The Welborne Family

The Lee Family

St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School www.stjohnseagles.org

Juan and Chanley Lee did their homework, identifying half a dozen local public and private schools that, based on internet research, were the best candidates for their children’s future education.

When the couple decided to move here from Georgia, selecting a school for their three children was even more of a priority than finding a home. During a pre-move, week-long visit, they toured the schools in contention, talked with faculty members, attended campus open houses and chatted with other families.

Today, Nicholas, an 11-year-old fifth grader, Hamilton, nine years old and attending third grade and Bella, who is eight and in second grade, have all adapted nicely to St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School in Tampa. Let the report card show those parents earned an A+.

Serendipity made St. John’s the first stop on the tour of select private schools.

All schools on the couple’s shortlist were impressive, Chanley recalls. Still, the longer they looked, the more sure they were sure St. John’s was the clear favorite.

“We felt it was the place where our children would thrive,” she said. It didn’t hurt that St. John’s and the youngsters’ former school in Georgia shared a mutual mascot, an eagle, and students at both schools sported similar uniforms.

“So there were some common threads there, but it was a really great fit for our entire family. From the moment they

enrolled in school mid-year, they were making friends, being invited to other families’ houses and making play dates,” said Chanley.

For Chanley, who works part time in the health and wellness field, and Juan, a radiologist, the school has been a boom for them as well, enabling them to meet others and make friends. That’s no easy task when facing family and work demands, while settling in to a new city without the benefit of knowing anyone there. Juan is involved with St. John’s Dads Club, a school-affiliated volunteer group comprised of fathers and students dedicated to performing community service.

Chanley has high praise for the teachers, as well as Lower School Principal, Lisa Stauch, who meets and greets students daily calling each by name. Homework is considerable, but extra-curricular activities are abundant and that helps to break up the hours of classroom time and after-school studying, to create a better balanced student life.

Nicholas has a new found fascination for Latin, Hamilton’s developed an interest in drama and Bella displays a knack for speaking Spanish and creating art.

“St. John’s really teaches kids to be independent, to use their time wisely and how managing their time can help them succeed and not be overwhelmed,” added Chanley.

St. John’s is the oldest Episcopal school in Central Florida and second oldest in the state. It combines academic rigor with a nurturing environment that features creative field trips, cutting-edge technology, divinity lessons, visiting authors and artists, athletics and extra-curricular activities. M

www.TampaBayMetro.com

December|January 2014

65

PK2 - 8 9 - 12

1933 www.farragut.org

1971 www.bayshorechristianschool.org

1965 www.bsbacademy.com

1960 www.berkeleyprep.org

1970 www.brandon-academy.com

1967 www.bridgepointpreparatory.com

2000 www.cchs.us

1964 www.cambridge-christian.com

1968 www.canterbury-fl.org

1981 www.carrollwooddayschool.org

1980 www.cbslions.com

1949 www.cks-school.org

1983 www.citrusparkchristianschool.com

1968 www.corbettprep.com

1962 www.ccchs.org

1989 www.communitymontessori.org

1964 www.corpuschristicatholicschool.org

1999 www.foc-knights.com

1970 www.hillelacademytampa.com

1964 www.icstampa.org

1984 www.ircs.org

1899 www.jesuittampa.org

1953 www.keswickchristian.org

Admiral Farragut Academy

Bayshore Christian School

Bell Shoals Baptist Academy

Berkeley Preparatory School

Brandon Academy

Bridgepoint Preparatory

Calvary Christian High School

Cambridge Christian School

Canterbury School of Florida

Carrollwood Day School

Central Baptist Christian School

Christ The King Catholic School

Citrus Park Christian School

Corbett Preparatory School of IDS

Clearwater Central Catholic High School

Community Montessori School

Corpus Christi Catholic School

Family of Christ Christian School

Hillel Academy

Incarnation Catholic School

Indian Rocks Christian School

Jesuit High School

Keswick Christian School

FCIS, FKC, NAIS

FCIS, CSF, FKC, NCPSA

ACSI, SACS

NR

FCIS, FKC

FCIS, SACS, FKC, SAIS

ACSI

FCIS, FKC, ACSI, SACS

FCIS, SACS, SAIS, FKC

FCIS, FKC, SACS, FCC

FCIS, FKC, SACS

n tio ta i ed cr Ac

PK - 12

9 - 12 (boys)

PK2 - 12

PK4 - 8

TK - 8

PK - 8

PK - 8

PK2 - 8

9 - 12

PK3 - 8

K3 - 12

PK4 - 8

PK3 - 12

ACSI, SACS

SACS

ACSI, SACS

FCC

FKC, FCIS, BRAS

NLSA

FCC, SACS

NA

SACS, IB

IB, SACS, FCIS, FKC

FACCS, NCPSA, MSA/CESS

SACS, FCC

ACTS, NCSPA

PK2 - 12 FCIS, FKC, NAEYC, IBO, SACS, NAIS

PK3 - 12

P3 - 12

PK3 - 8

PK - 12

PK - 8

PK2 - 12

PK - 12

PK - 12

1881 www.holynamestpa.org

Academy of the Holy Names

PK3 - 12

1992 www.academyatthelakes.org

es ad r G

Academy at the Lakes

ol ho Sc

s ed es nd dr u d o F A ar eb Ye W st Co

$2,950 - $10,770

$13,400

$4,800 - $9,500

$5,350 - $6,950

$11,000 - varies

$6,550

$5,858

$5,945 - $9,015

$10,600 - $12,500

$8,975 - $12,985

$5,775 - $7,192

$6,685

$3,000 - $5,000

$4,125 - $17,900

$7,150 - $16,975

$7,602 - $13,914

$10,750

$7,000 - $8,500

$8,300 - $8,600

$16,860 - $20,550

$2,400 - $5,700

$7,300 - $8,700

$12,060 - $39,950

$10,380 - $16,370

$9,420 - $20,680

on iti Tu

NA

50

95

99

90

80

NA

NA

95

NA

95

NA

90

76

80

80

NA

NA

95

NA

NA

NA

73

NA

NA

98

100

98

NA

100

NA

NA

NA

100

NA

98

NA

NA

100

100

100

100

NA

NA

100

NA

99

100

100

100

598

750

780

300

207

285

250

120

476

538

300

527

220

880

455

615

380

80

250

1,300

456

250

400

900

430

45

60

53

28

40

29

20

13

60

68

34

35

25

100

58

55

34

11

25

175

41

30

65

104

55

11:1

9:1

NR

8:1

12:1

14:1

20:1

12:1

12:1

NR

11:1

15:1

8:1

15:1

16:1

25:1

varies

7:1

17:1

12:1

10:1

11:1

9:1

varies varies

24

20

20-25

12

16

25-30

15

25

12-20

15

26

23

16

12

17

18

10

13-15

15-20

10-24 varies

15

15

20

15

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N N Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

us io n ig atio l Re ffili A

Protestant

Catholic

Southern Baptist

Roman Catholic

Jewish

Lutheran

Catholic

None

Roman Catholic

None

Non-denominational

Catholic

Baptist

None

Episcopal

Non-denominational

Baptist

Non-denominational

None

Episcopal

Baptist

Non-denominational

None

Catholic

None

ge tio ed ze e lle Ra Si oy r ag l co p he ss gu to m c a n d l t a E e C La go s en pt rs /Te ge nt rm rts ign ic ce ho he llm a d e o c r c o e f W r A e a -e i po r us rt ud En Te St Av % Co Un S Fo M A %

TAMPA BAY METROâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S 2014 PRIVATE SCHOOLS LIST

1971 www.stpetechristian.com

St. Petersburg Christian School

1969 www.tampadayschool.com

1974 www.tampaprep.org

1992 www.uaftampa.org

1936 www.villamadonnaschool.com

1972 www.westgate.org

Tampa Day School

Tampa Preparatory School

Universal Academy of Florida

Villa Madonna School

West Gate Christian School

FACCS

FCC, SACS/CASI

FCIS, FKC, SACS

NAIS, SACS, FCIS

NR

NA

75

76

70

NA

NA

94

80

62

NA

87

NR

NA

85

95

NA

85

90

NA

NA

85

98

90

NA

100

100

NA

100

94

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

NA

100

98

NA

100

NA

NA

NA

98

NA

92

393

575

625

134

700

300

455

295

454

580

581

506

450

975

698

195

616

200

700

132

191

25

14

30

50

52

25

52

33

41

40

52

32

65

34

45

99

54

30

84

30

40

21

22

7

varies

15:1

10:1

20

24

15

16-18

10

25

15

18-20

14-18

21

25

20

20-25

20

15

21

22

16

18

14:1

26:1

15:1

16:1

12:1

11:1

15:1

18:1

7:1

9:1

varies

12:1

21:1

20:1

12:1

20:1

varies

18:1

9:1

varies varies

22

15

10

NCPS-National Council for Private Schools NPSAA-National Private School Accreditation Alliance NCPSA-National Council for Private School Accreditation NLSA- National Lutheran School Association SACS-Southern Association of Colleges and Schools NA-Non-Applicable NR-Not Reported

$3,500 - $5,000

$5,400+

$5,000 - $6,000

$19,525 - $20,065

$16,900 - $17,300

$9,160 - $11,540

$5,000 - $7,000

$7,370 - $8,445

$6,950 - $16,550

$11,750

$5,604+

$10,290 - $10,560

$5,897- $7,656

$7,500 - $8,500

FCIS-Florida Council of Independent Schools FLCS-Florida League of Christian Schools FKC-Florida Kindergarten Council IB-International Baccalaureate NAASC-National Accrediting Association of Christian Schools NAEYC-National Association for the Education of Young Children NAIS-National Association of Independent Schools

PK - 12

PK3 - 8

PK3 - 12

6 - 12

FCIS, SACS

AdvancED

ACSI, SACS

SACS, ACSI, FLOCS,AdvanceED

FCIS, NAIS, FKC, SACS

FCIS, FKC, NAIS, NAES

FCC

FCIS, FKC, NAIS, NAES, ERB, BAAIS, CASE, JR NHS

FCC

ACSI, SACS

$6,600 - $19,490

$3,725 - $6,300

$7,575 - $13,400

$6,000 - $11,000

$6,000 - $7,000

$4,860

$6,300 - $9,200

$4,150 - $5,950

$18,150

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N Y

Y

N Y

Y

Y

Y

N Y

Y

N Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

N

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Y

Baptist

Catholic

Islam

None

None

Roman Catholic

Baptist

Non-denominational

Episcopal

Episcopal

Catholic

Episcopal

Catholic

Baptist

None

Baptist

None

Baptist

None

Catholic

None

Baptist

None

Tampa Bay Metro Magazine/Metro Life Media, Inc. has used its best efforts in compiling the material for the 2014 Private School List but does not warrant that the information is complete or accurate, and does not assume, and hereby disclaims, any liability to any persons for any loss or damage caused by errors or emissions.

ACSI-Association of Christian Schools International BAAIS-Bay Area Association of Independent Schools BRAS-Blue Ribbon Award School CSF-Christian Schools of Florida FACCS-Florida Association of Christian Colleges and Schools FCC-Florida Catholic Conference

Guide to Private Schools Key:

9 - 12

1962 www.tampacatholic.org

Tampa Catholic High School 1-8

PK - 12

Tampa Bay Christian Academy of Florida, Inc. 1957 www.tbcarams.org

K-8

PK3 - 8

PK - 8

EC3 - 8

1968 www.st.pauls.edu

K4 - 8

Saint Paul’s School

1971 www.skycrestchristianschool.org

Skycrest Christian School

ACSI, SACS

FCIS, FKC

ACSI, SACS

NR

FCC, NCPSA

AMS, FKC, FCIS

AACS, SSACS, NCPSA

in-process

PK3 - 12 SACS, FCIS, FKC, NAIS, SAIS, CASE, ERB, NHS, CLS

1953 www.smeds.org

1923 www.shorecrest.org

Shorecrest Preparatory School

PK2 - 12

St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School

1983 www.scacrusaders.com

Seffner Christian Academy

PK2 - 8

1961 www.stlawrencecatholicschool.org

1995 www.shma.us

Safety Harbor Montessori Academy

PK - 12

St. Lawrence Catholic School

1971 www.nck12.com

Northside Christian School

INFANT - 5

K4 - 8

1983 www.newhorizonsprivateschool.net

New Horizons Country Day School

PK3 - 8

1951 www.st.johnseagles.org

1961 www.nativitycatholicschool.org

Nativity Catholic School

PK - 6

St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School

1970 www.themontessorihousedayschool.com

The Montessori House Day School

PK3 - 12

PK3 - 8

1978 www.lolcs.org

Land O’ Lakes Christian School

9 - 12

St. Cecelia Interparochial Catholic School 1948 www.st-cecelia.org

2004 www.keystoneprep.org

Keystone Prep High School

Academy at the Lakes

Academy is committed to educating students who

Carrollwood Day School is the first school in

Academy at the Lakes is an independent PreK3-

are globally aware, independent, confident and

Florida authorized by the prestigious International

Grade 12 college preparatory school located in

responsible citizens. Call 813-839-5371 or visit

Baccalaureate Organization to offer all three IB

north Tampa, convenient to New Tampa, Wesley

www.holynamestpa.org or call 813-839-5371 for

programs for students in Pre-school through high

Chapel, Lutz, Carrollwood, and Land O’Lakes.

more information.

school, and is the sixth school in the U.S. to achieve this honor. CDS is known for its develop-

Academy offers a balanced and challenging college preparatory curriculum, a competitive

Berkeley Preparatory School

mentally appropriate, challenging academic

athletic program, an outstanding fine arts

Berkeley Preparatory School is a coeducational,

program and its innovative school-wide emphasis

program, foreign languages, technology instruction,

independent college-preparatory day school for

on character development. Visit online at

and a variety of co-curricular opportunities

children in grades Pre-K – 12. Dedicated to

www.carrollwooddayschool.org.

designed to encourage student exploration.

academic excellence, character development,

Corbett Preparatory School of IDS

Students find a warm, welcoming place where

the arts and athletics, Berkeley’s curriculum is

their talents and curiosities are highly valued.

designed to support the talent and ambition of

Founded in 1968, Corbett Preparatory School of

Call 813-909-7919 for more information or visit

each student. Berkeley strives to instill a strong

IDS is a fully accredited, nonsectarian private

www.academyatthelakes.org.

sense of morality, ethics and social responsibility in

school located in Tampa’s Carrollwood

its students. Berkeley offers opportunities that are

neighborhood. The school serves 500+ students

aimed at three enduring measures of success: the

from pre-kindergarten through eighth grade and

Academy of the Holy Names The Academy of the Holy Names is an independ-

well-developed mind, the well-nourished spirit

offers the International Baccalaureate program of

ent, Catholic elementary school for boys and girls

and a series of well-cultivated talents. Visit

study. Teachers are endorsed in gifted education

and a college preparatory high school for young

www.berkeleyprep.org or call 813-885-1673.

through the University of South Florida. Corbett Prep balances a dynamic, nurturing and safe

women, sponsored by the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary. Taking the lead in 21st

Carrollwood Day School

learning environment with high standards and high

century teaching, AHN is now running a one-to-one

Carrollwood Day School is a private day school

expectations. Visit www.corbettprep.com or

iPad program in the 3rd through 12th grades. The

for students from 2-years-old through high school.

contact the Admissions Office at 813-961-3087.

ADMISSIONS OPEN HOUSE Middle and Upper Divisions (Grades 6 to 12) Wednesday, January 29, 9 –11:30 a.m.

Registration begins at 8:45 a.m.

RSVP by January 27 For more information, contact the Admissions Office at 813.885.1673, ext. 2312 or email robbiwen@berkeleyprep.org www.berkeleyprep.org/openhouse admissions@berkeleyprep.org

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813 . 8 8 5 .1673

AN INDEPENDENT DAY SCHOOL FOR BOYS AND GIRL S IN PRE-K TO GR ADE 12

68

December|January 2014

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SHORECREST OPEN HOUSE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12 • 2 PM Family Discovery Fun Day

The Experiential School and the Lower School (Age 3 – Grade 4)

Join us for an afternoon of learning and fun!

Participate in hands‐on learning activities; Engage in yoga, part of our extensive afterschool program; Enjoy popcorn and facepainting; Meet our mascot Sparky and

Experience how Shorecrest will Open Your Child’s Mind!

SUNDAY, JANUARY 21 • 7 9 PM Middle School (grades 5‐8) and High School (grades 9‐12)

Talk with middle and high school students, meet faculty, administrators and parents, and understand why

Shorecrest students Find Their Future.

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December|January 2014

69

Keystone Prep High School Keystone Prep High School is an outgrowth of Tampa Day School, a school with a 43-year history of success and achievement for students who learn differently. Many have ADHD, anxiety, dyslexia, motivation issues, or benefit from a small teacher-student ratio. Keystone Prep delivers a comprehensive and rigorous college prep education, respecting individual differences and providing a flexible learning environment using scientifically-based instruction. For more information contact Rick LeGendre Head of School at 813-264-4500 or rlegendre@keystoneprep.org.

Shorecrest Preparatory School Shorecrest Preparatory School, Florida's oldest independent day school, is founded on the tradition of excellence in academics, arts, athletics, global awareness and community service. Enrolling approximately 1,000 students in Pre-school (age 3) through grade 12, Shorecrest offers a strong college preparatory program with 24 Advanced Placement courses, individualized college counseling, and a nationally acclaimed faculty. Students are encouraged to become critical thinkers and problem solvers as they are nurtured through every stage of development. “Expect the Best.”

Visit www.shorecrest.org.

St. John’s Episcopal Parish Day School St. John’s is an Episcopal parish day school serving nearly 600 boys and girls in grades K(4) through 8. Grounded by a commitment to spiritual and ethical values, a love of learning, and a dedication to the development of strong character, our students build the foundation to grow into caring and successful adults in an ever-changing world. St. John's prepares each of its students for lifelong intellectual and spiritual growth, by providing an excellent educational experience within a nurturing Christian environment. The core curriculum includes English language and literature, history and social studies, mathematics, physical and life sciences, Spanish and Latin, advanced technology, performing and studio arts, and physical fitness and championship interscholastic athletics.

Call 813-600-4348 for more information or visit www.stjohnseagles.org.

70

December|January 2014

www.TampaBayMetro.com

You Matter Here.

A school community unlike any other.

Celebrating 21 Amazing Years

PreK3 through High School

Come Experience the Difference.

Schedule a Tour Today! www.AcademyattheLakes.org

(813) 909-7919

www.TampaBayMetro.com

December|January 2014

71

St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School At St. Mary’s Episcopal Day School, your child will experience challenging academics, exciting performing and visual arts, competitive athletics, enrichment classes, advanced technology, public speaking, foreign language, community service, religious education, and more. St. Mary’s is an independent, co-educational Pre-K through 8th grade school providing intellectual, spiritual, and personal growth. St. Mary’s highlyqualified faculty inspires students to achieve their best, developing well-rounded individuals ready for the challenges ahead. Specific character-development goals include integrity, self-discipline, self-motivation, good citizenship, friendliness, and a love of learning. Visit www.smeds.org or call 813-258-5508.

Tampa Day School Tampa Day School is an accredited, specialized school for students in grades 1-8 with mild to moderate learning disabilities, dyslexia, anxiety, and/or ADHD. The instructional material covered is the same as traditional schools, utilizing small class size, a personalized approach, and specialized programs. In addition, our acclaimed Learning Solutions program, with clinicians trained in specialized instructional methods, meets the needs of a wide range of learning profiles. Check us out! Call 813-269-2100 or visit us online at www.TampaDaySchool.com.

Tampa Preparatory School Tampa Preparatory School is a coeducational, non-sectarian, independent college preparatory school, educating students in grades 6 through 12 in downtown Tampa. Students receive unparalleled instruction from caring teachers.

The challenging academic program is balanced with a broad offering of artistic and athletic offerings, including state-champion athletic teams, state-ranked chorus and community service endeavors. Upon graduation, students are placed in the finest colleges and universities in the country. For more information, call 813-251-8481 or visit www.tampaprep.org.

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December|January 2014

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76

December|January 2014

cocktail and provided wrist bracelets to let the staff know they are guests of Hotel Riu Palace. Since Riu has four other properties in close proximity, guests are allowed to enjoy amenities, cocktails, breakfast and lunch at any of the other resorts. Dinner, however, is enjoyed at your host location. With 24 hour room service and 10 options for eating and drinking at Hotel Riu Palace Mexico, there is no reason not to be content. The main restaurant, Don Julian, offers breakfast and dinner

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buffets with cooking stations and themed nights during the week. Optional dining spots including Krystal – Fusion, Myagi – Japanese, Guacamole – Grill and Steakhouse, La Dolce Vita – Italian and La Bodega – Mexican, do require advanced reservations.

All the rooms and the property exterior are newly transformed to the modern flavor of the RIU resorts.

Purple, black and silver are the colors of the new décor. Inside the lobby of the Hotel Riu Palace, the chapel is a

reminder of the past. The small sanctuary remains and offers a quiet spot to reflect and contemplate.

Kids will have fun in the newly updated â&#x20AC;&#x153;Riulandâ&#x20AC;? kids club with supervised activities and fun on the playground. The Renova Spa offers a variety of spa and beauty treatments at an additional charge, however there is a complimentary gym and sauna for guests to enjoy. For those seeking activity, the property offers four pools, one with a swim-up bar, two tennis courts, table tennis, volleyball, and one

intro scuba lesson in the pool.

Windsurfing, kayaking, body board and snorkeling equipment are also available.

In traditional RIU style, guests enjoy live music and shows nightly.

Playa del Carmen is an easy starting point to discover Mayan culture with a day trip to Tulum. M For more information or learn more about RIU Palace Mexico in Playa del Carmen or other RIU properties, visit www.riu.com.

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METROGuide Wine

Revisiting the Classics

By Kevin Pelley

I

heard something tragic the other day when a friend mentioned that she liked bubblegum flavored wine.

Couple that with other abominations such as chocolate flavored wine, cola flavored wine and a myriad of other fruit flavors and oenophiles should be worried that this might be the end of days. Actually, any form of wine consumption, even bubblegum flavored wine, is a good sign for the wine industry. A recent Gallup poll (July 2013) showed that drinkers in the United States are equally likely to drink wine as they are beer. Studies also suggest that drinkers who start with these flavored wines eventually trade-up for traditional wines, in time. So, I will try not to fear when I pass chocolate flavored wine next time I am grocery shopping.

However, there are several classics of the wine world that are worthy of revisiting in the new year. I invite you to try these classics in 2014.

Chianti | Chianti has a bad reputation, and deservedly so. For years, producers were making ordinary wines in the

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Chianti region. Over cropping, adding white wine to stretch the yields and generally focusing on quantity over quality. However, today Chianti producers have outlawed the use of any white grapes and are again concentrating on quality. Chianti producers are now allowed to use non-native grapes such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah and Merlot.

The results are wonderful and make Chianti a wine worth rediscovering in 2014. Favorite producers to look for include Fontodi and Castello di Ama. Rioja Gran Reserva | What other wine in the world is aged for a minimum of five years (two years in barrel, and another three years in the bottle), before release and still is available for under $30? The answer is none other than a Rioja Gran Reserva. The beauty of a Gran Reserva is that they are ready to drink upon release. Unlike so many other wines from around the world that require anywhere from a few years to over a decade of aging before they are ready to drink, producers in Rioja, Spain

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do all the work for you. Comprised of mostly Tempranillo, a grape that improves beautifully with age, the wines of Rioja exhibit flavors of sour cherry, tobacco, mint, leather, dried flowers and vanilla. Here is a list of reliable producers: Marques de Caceras, Cune and Muga.

Chablis | The name Chablis was bastardized in America when producers took this regional name and applied it to bulk wine produced in California’s Central Valley. Unlike the real Chablis, which is 100 percent Chardonnay, this imposter is comprised of a variety of high-yielding grapes such as French Columbard, Ungi Blanc and even Thompson Seedless grapes. The Chablis region also fell upon hard times in the 1960s when the phylloxera epidemic hit the region hard.

As a result, the region has suffered an image problem. Today, the quality in Chablis has never been higher and the wines represent incredible value. One of the largest land holders in Chablis is the esteemed house of Joseph Drouhin and their Domaine de Vaudon.

German Riesling | Over a century ago, German Riesling was one of the worlds most sought after wines. The best German Rieslings commanded about the same price as the top French Bordeaux.

Today German Riesling represents one of the best values in wine and consumers can purchase a superb bottle from a top producer for under $35. In contrast, the best French Bordeaux command prices over $1,000 per bottle. So often people assume Riesling is always sweet. Riesling can come in many styles ranging from sweet, to off-dry, to dry and all the way to bone dry in style. Those looking for drier styles should look for the words Kabinett or Trocken on a bottle of German Riesling.

Here are some reliable producers of German Riesling: S.A. Prum, Donnhoff and Dr. Loosen. M —Kevin Pelley, Certified Sommelier Wine Merchant: Bern’s Fine Wines & Spirits www.bernsfinewines.com

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METROGuide Foodie

Steak Lovers Delight in New Menu Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar | By Ronda M. Parag

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arlier in the fall, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse updated its menu to include dry-aged steaks, bold cuts and new toppings. Fleming’s now offers two preparation techniques – Dry Aged and Wet Aged. Prime New York Strip and Prime Dry Aged Ribeye, are aged a minimum of 21 days creating a richer, bolder flavor with a nutty note. The Wet Aged cuts include a Prime Bone-In, New York Strip, Prime Bone-in Ribeye and Filet Mignon, providing a juicy, flavorful taste, also aged for a minimum of 21 days. All the steak cuts are seasoned with kosher salt and black pepper, then broiled at 1600 degrees, or iron-crusted and finished with butter and fresh parsley.

For guests seeking a little surf and turf, Fleming’s has introduced three new

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steak companions and a flavor trio. The trio of three steak spreads include Sweet Onion Black Jam, Cabernet Mustard and Gorgonzola and Mascarpone Bruleé.

The steak surf toppings include a Truffled Poached Lobster with bernaise sauce and caviar, Diablo Shrimp with spiced bbq and butter sauce, and King Crab with herb butter topped with caviar.

If you are searching for a great place for happy hour, Fleming’s bar offers 5 cocktails, 5 wines by the glass, and 5 appetizers for $6 each until 7 pm, as well as the Bar la Carte Menu featuring The Prime Burger and Salt & Pepper Shrimp.

The extensive wine is easily accessible with Fleming’s WiNEPAD™, a proprietary custom app on the iPad that allows guests to search for the perfect bottle.

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Guests can view the entire wine list, see the Wine Director’s picks (Maeve’s Raves), or view recommendations based on menu items.

In addition to the menu changes, Fleming’s National Director of Wine, Maeve Pesquera, released a new wine list of the Fleming’s 100®, featuring 100 wines by the glass. “The new Fleming’s 100®, is the very best list in the 15-year history of Fleming’s,” said Pesquera.

“Not only are we offering popular wines of today, but we’re putting the spotlight on the cult wines and standouts of tomorrow.” M 4322 West Boy Scout Blvd., Tampa, FL 813.874.9463 For reservations visit www.FlemingsSteakhouse.com

Metro Dining Guide

Escape The Ordinary

Ceviche Tapas Bar & Restaurant

The beautiful Armani’s Restaurant located on the 14th floor of the luxurious Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay, features award-winning Northern Italian cuisine and offers breathtaking views of Tampa and the Bay from the newly renovated terrace.

You’ll feel like you’ve journeyed to Spain when you dine at Florida’s favorite Spanish restaurant. Tantalize your taste buds with the authentic flavor of our homemade Sangrias and over 100 different tapas. Live music and Flamenco dance shows. For showtimes, visit www.ceviche.com/livemusic.

2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa, FL 33607 813.207.6800 | www.opentable.com/armanis

Tampa | St. Pete www.ceviche.com

The Capital Grille

Tampa’s Pelagia Trattoria

You are cordially invited to join The Capital Grille for an evening of relaxed elegance and exceptional cuisine. Enjoy their signature dry aged steaks, fresh seafood, and an award-winning list of more than 350 wines, served to you by a gracious, knowledgeable staff who anticipate your every need.

Pelagia specializes in adding a modern twist to traditional Italian cuisine while also featuring seasonal flavors and locally sourced foods.

Named to numerous national and local best restaurant lists and awarded multiple Golden Spoons, open for breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

2223 N. Westshore Blvd., Tampa, FL 33607 813.830.9433 | www.thecapitalgrille.com

Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel, Tampa 813.313.3235 | www.pelagiatrattoria.com

Sail Pavilion

Ocean Prime

Located on the RiverWalk, Sail Pavilion is Tampa’s only 360degree waterfront bar. The pet-friendly Sail Pavilion features a Beer Garden and live music on weekends. Mention this ad for a 10 percent discount.

Ocean Prime...the Modern American Supper Club. Ocean Prime showcases a large selection of prime seafood and steak, with handcrafted cocktails and world-class wines. Open for lunch and dinner daily; live piano music featured nightly.

333 S. Franklin St., Tampa, FL 33602 813.373.1193 | www.tampaconventioncenter.com

2205 N. West Shore Blvd., International Plaza, Tampa 813.490.5288 | www.ocean-prime.com

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METROGuide Latitude

“Pelican” 28.060414, -82.830217

© Dennis Ramos

As dusk sets in, local photographer, Dennis Ramos, captures a lone pelican at Honeymoon Island State Park in Dunedin. Discover Dennis Ramos and his works by following him online at www.facebook.com/DennisRamos. M

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