Why do the folks at King Contracting remodel and build homes?
It’s because we like helping people find the best in themselves for living at home. We love the feeling of positive change! We enjoy seeing our clients faces light up when we put together a design board and meld their feelings together all at one time.
No kitchen and no bath are the same to us, because they are not the same. They reflect the personalities and lifestyles of you, our client.
We will not push an architectural style or color palette on our clients. At King Contracting, our tasks are to guide you and assist you with options and ideas that are functional yet align with your family needs and your individuality. We firmly believe whatever your gut feeling tells you, is what you want in your home. So, our mission is simple, it is to be the best at what we do to bring out the best in you!
Call us today to discuss tear downs and custom rebuilds, storm related remodels, whole house remodels or exterior upgrades.
If you can dream it, we can assist you from your concept to our final cleaning!
Van Selow Design Build, led by Susanne Van Selow-the leading female building contractor in the Tampa Bay area -specializes in luxury remodels and custom residential construction. With over 25 years of experience, Susanne delivers exceptional craftsmanship, personalized service, and a commitment to excellence in every project.
20
DESIGN CENTRAL
From strategies for preparing a renovation or adding an Accessory Dwelling Unit to your home, to insights on styling a small outdoor space or curating your dream closet, we’ve got the expert advice you need.
38
THE ART OF FLAVOR
We kick off our Chef’s Table series with a look at the menu and motivations of David Benstock of IL Ritorno.
48 SHINING ON
St. Pete’s annual SHINE Mural Festival returns, spotlighting local artists and transforming the city with its billboards of creativity.
56 INFLUENCE HER
Alexia Gonzalez is a fast-rising local media personality with a loyal following and expanding influence.
On The Cover:
@thegalalife photographed by Sandra
| Sandrasonik @sandrasonik_photography on location with King Contracting @doug_king_contracting. Hair by Sasha Ahles of J.CON Salon & Spa @stylinbysasha
Alexia Gonzalez
Döhnert
WELCOME
Style is more than what we wear and design is more than how something looks. Together, they shape how we experience the world around us— how we live, celebrate and connect with our community. In this issue, we explore those intersections of creativity and culture that give St. Pete its unique flair.
Nowhere is that spirit more visible than during the SHINE Mural Festival. Each year, our city becomes a living outdoor museum as blank walls are transformed into bold canvases. This year’s focus on local artists makes it all the more meaningful—an invitation to see our neighborhoods through the eyes of the talented people who live and work here.
You’ll also find stories that celebrate the many ways style defines who we are. From interiors that balance tradition with fresh perspective to closets reimagined as personalized sanctuaries, our features reveal how thoughtful design can transform the everyday into something extraordinary. Style is also alive in our food and drink culture and we had the pleasure of spending the afternoon with Chef David Benstock of IL Ritorno, who guided us through his acclaimed menu and shared the inspirations behind his inventive approach.
What ties all of this together is intention and storytelling. Good design doesn’t just happen; it’s crafted with vision, whether it’s a mural that tells a community’s story, a home that reflects its owner’s personality or a meal full of alchemy and unexpected flavors. Style, meanwhile, is how we choose to express that vision to the world.
As you turn these pages, I hope you’re inspired to look at St. Pete with fresh eyes. See the murals taking shape this fall, discover the artisans and innovators shaping our city and perhaps reimagine your own surroundings in a new light.
BETH ANN DRAKE Publisher bdrake@stpetelifemag.com
NICK STEELE Editor-In-Chief editor@stpetelifemag.com
PUBLISHER/CEO
Beth Ann Drake
EDITOR/CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Nick Steele
GRAPHIC DESIGN/PRODUCTION
Design2Pro
ADVERTISING
Ed Barry Ad Director / Photographer
Betsy Phillips Senior Account Executive
Debbie Radsick
Account Executive
CONTRIBUTORS
Avery Anderson
Marcia Biggs
Sean Goodrich
Barbara Green
Skyler June
Misha Pokusa
Nitish S. Rele
Sandrasonik
Tiffini Theisen
N.J. Vallone
Laura L. Watts
Emily Will
Nanette Wiser
Anne Zimmerman Briand
CO-FOUNDER/BUSINESS MANAGER
Ralph Zuckerman
UNPACK THOSE BAGS
Tired Eyes, Be Gone.
Discover the power of laser-assisted eyelid surgery with Dr. Rosh — Tampa’s leading oculoplastic surgeon. With surgical precision and an artistic eye, she delivers natural, refreshed results with minimal downtime. Her secret? A blend of innovation, expertise, and a deep understanding of facial harmony. It’s not just about looking younger—it’s about looking
Unpack those under-eye bags — for good. Your brighter, more awake future starts now.
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regret
Roshni Ranjit-Reeves, MD (Dr.Rosh)
SERVING THE TAMPA BAY COMMUNITY FOR 25 YEARS
Featured On:
What are Festoons?
Festoons are fluid-filled pockets that develop on the upper cheeks due to sun damage, aging, and genetics. Dr. Adam Scheiner utilizes advanced laser technology to surgically remove festoons, restoring a more youthful appearance.
Does Festoon surgery eliminate lower-lid eye bags?
Lower eyelid bags are located directly below the eye, while Festoons are on the upper cheek. Dr. Scheiner can perform a laser lower eyelid blepharoplasty for the eye bags and treat the Festoons in the same procedure.
Why choose Adam Scheiner, M.D. for your Festoon surgery?
Dr. Adam Scheiner is a world renowned laser eyelid and facial cosmetic surgeon, international speaker, and the author of The True Definition of Beauty, a WSJ Best Seller. His twentyfive years of experience and unique Reset Festoon procedure has helped thousands of patients from around the world restore their confidence, reveal natural results and reclaim their youthful glow.
Michael Saunders & Company, the Gulf Coast of Florida’s leading independent real estate brokerage, is proud to announce the expansion of our complete portfolio of residential real estate services into the vibrant and eclectic city of St. Petersburg.
We arrive inspired and invigorated by the people, homes, and culture that make up the Sunshine City. We know this place is special, and we look forward to making it our new home — and to serving your real estate needs for many years to come.
“Building a business isn't a solo sport—it's about crafting the perfect team composition that elevates your vision beyond what you could achieve alone.”
My focus is helping entrepreneurs achieve the lifestyle that inspired them to take the leap—by streamlining costs, boosting customer retention and maximizing their time and team. Let me start with a story that might sound familiar.
Maria stared at her laptop screen at 2 a.m. juggling emails, social media posts and invoice tracking. As a successful boutique owner, she built something beautiful but found herself trapped in the very business she created. The problem wasn’t her passion or talent—it was her approach.
«I thought I had to do everything myself to make sure it was perfect,» Maria recalls. «But I designed my job as a business owner instead of creating a business that would still run even if I stepped away.»
Think of your business like designing a home. You wouldn’t attempt to be the architect, contractor, electrician and interior designer all at once. Yet many business owners try to fill every role, instead of building a team of specialists who excel in their respective areas.
This is where the concept of fractional partnerships becomes revolutionary. Rather than hiring full-time employees you may not need, you can design a board of advisors and specialists who contribute their expertise on a flexible basis. These relationships often become mutually beneficial, where value flows both directions without traditional employment costs. When you find the right people, they become extensions of your vision rather than just service providers.
Consider areas where you struggle or spend excessive time. Marketing? Operations? Financial planning? Strategic partnerships with fractional experts in these areas allow you to maintain ownership while accessing high-level talent that might otherwise be unaffordable.
Here’s the key—focus on understanding business functions well enough to hold people accountable, rather than trying to master every detail yourself. You need to know just enough to evaluate their promises and measure their results.
Remember: you can’t scale what you can’t delegate. Design your success by surrounding yourself with people who complement your strengths and shore up your weaknesses.
The strongest businesses aren’t built by the hardest working individuals—they’re crafted by smart leaders who understand that great design requires the right team.
To learn more about designing your business systems or team, visit myclonesolution.com or schedule a call at meetwithbrook.com Contact Brook: (813) 442-9925 or brook@myclonesolutions.com
Promotional Feature: created in partnership with My Clone Solution.
A FRESH PERSPECTIVE
Looking ahead to 2026, many homeowners are planning to refresh their living spaces. We spoke with Doug King, owner of King Contracting, about key considerations.
We caught up with Doug King at the distinctive St. Pete Beach home of Adam and Kirsten Schramm (featured on our cover) to discuss the work he and his team did on their home and several other recent projects.
“This house was built in 1980 and has endured several owners over the course of those 45 years. The bones were good when we bought it, but there were a lot of things we knew had to be done,” Adam recalls. “We contracted with Doug and his team to do a large renovation to some structural elements of the home as well as the entire exterior appearance of the house.”
King’s team crafted a strategy to address the outdated design and deteriorating wood siding.
“We decided to go with James Hardie siding, which is better designed for our climate and requires very little maintenance,”
King explains. “As with most multi-story homes on the waterfront, we needed to break up the levels with a different cladding. We used a mortarless stone product to achieve the look we designed for the lower level. The rear of the home features some nice outdoor covered entertaining spaces, so we installed new tile floors on the balconies and deck.”
After the structural repairs, siding and accent stonework had been completed, Adam explains that King’s team tackled renovations on the home’s kitchen and a small bathroom.
“A year or so later, we had them come in and do a retrofit of our entire fourth level,” he offers. “Doug’s team was great
Lead
image by Sandrasonik. Additional images courtesy of King Contracting.
for all of it. As with any construction process, there are hurdles to get over, such as scheduling, and everybody wants their work done now…like, right now! Doug was very straightforward from the beginning of the planning phase and their detailed timeline and explanation of the expected progress was something I hadn’t experienced before. There were a few instances throughout the job when I had questions or concerns and they were met with prompt answers and solutions. At one point, while our job was exposed to the elements, Doug himself was out here helping to get it weatherproofed before a threatening hurricane.”
That kind of dedication is characteristic of King, who takes great pride in the reputation he and his team have achieved as caring design, build and renovation professionals.
“We have had the good fortune of working with many residents of the greater St. Petersburg area and every project has its own special features,” he shares. “We enjoy working alongside our clients to create truly special places for folks to live.”
King embraces the various challenges that come with the job, whether it’s making a flat ceiling into a vaulted one without removing the roof, installing unique tiles and stones to give the appearance of a waterfall in a shower or sourcing products that can’t be found in typical retail settings. Many projects require a particular level of artisan craftsmanship that he and his team specialize in.
“Every home is unique and requires custom products, as well as a great deal of planning and detail work to design. There is a reason large scale builders don't take on remodeling,” King asserts. “No project is the same and you cannot adhere to templated scopes and timelines. For instance, we are working on a historic home in Old Northeast, named The Robert West House. Every room requires unique designs to fit the time period and quality of the home. Without skilled carpenters and craftsmen to install special products, we would not be able to achieve the details our designers have planned.”
The team often works on more conventional projects, where many of their clients have similar goals in mind.
“We have a lot of clients who want renovations that will give them more space. Open floor plans are still popular with homeowners, especially with homes originally built from the ‘50s through the ‘80s, but we want to be careful not to create a warehouse look. Thoughtful planning is required to open a space up and let more light in, while still preserving some of the cozy feel that was originally intended,” he advises. “For instance, we have a remodel and addition in Broadwater that was previously opened up too much. The current owners wanted a little more privacy between the kitchen and the living room. We were able to achieve this for them with a beautiful stone wall feature and wine storage area.”
King says if he has one piece of advice for someone planning a renovation in the next six months to a year, it would be to start now.
“It takes time to develop and design a project. We work with clients months before the intended start date. Developing floor plans and selecting finishes early is key to keeping with the budget and schedule. The more planning that goes into the front end, the more seamless the process,” he says. “For most people, their home is their largest investment, so taking the extra time and care to plan a remodel is worth it.”
Promotional Feature: Created in partnership with King Contracting. Visit dougkingcontracting.com to learn more.
MODERN
CLASSIC
FOR SEVERAL YEARS NOW, "NEW TRADITIONAL" INTERIOR DESIGN HAS BEEN STEADILY GROWING IN POPULARITY— GAINING TRACTION AS MANY ARE QUIETLY SHIFTING FROM MODERN MINIMALISM TOWARD SPACES THAT FEEL CURATED, SOULFUL AND MORE BALANCED.
According to Jennifer Marksberry, principal designer at Gage-Martin Interiors, her team is seeing, “a movement back toward tradition— but reinterpreted in a fresh, clean way. Clients are craving spaces with warmth, character and beautiful craftsmanship, yet they don’t want the heaviness or clutter that can sometimes come with traditional design,” she explains. “It’s about editing; paneled walls, classical details in lighter finishes, antiques paired with tailored upholstery and modern art.”
She shares that this was the case with a recent client who retained the firm to design her Beach Drive high-rise apartment.
“We understood her ‘marching orders’ immediately. She wanted classic, clean lines with references to 18th-century England,” Marksberry recalls. “Her love of mahogany and uncompromising craftsmanship led us to bespoke pieces from E.J. Victor and Henkel Harris. Her color story was cream, cream, cream—with delicate touches of platinum and gold leaf. The result is a serene, elegant home that feels both timeless and personal.”
After years of pared-down interiors in shades of white and gray, people are ready for warmth and character. They want a sense of history and a little storytelling in the furniture and finishes. New Traditional delivers just that—spaces with soul.
It’s about emotional resonance and an eclectic mix with an emphasis on heirloom-style touches reports Rachel Davies who writes for Architectural Digest and is the creator of the popular Personal Space newsletter. Davies says that traditional interior design and modern style really do go together because traditional decor doesn’t have to be stuffy.
Designers say it is all about balance—heritage without formality, craftsmanship without clutter. It’s a way of honoring the past while living fully in the present. The key is in the mix. You take the best of tradition—architectural detail, craftsmanship and beautiful materials—and strip away what feels dated or overdone. An antique chair reupholstered in a crisp linen. A classical molding painted in a contemporary color, so it feels fresh rather than ornate. Vintage items used as accents in just the right places, so they stand out as statement pieces. The result is a layered and personal style that feels as though it evolved over time rather than appearing like you purchased everything all at once.
What homeowners love most about this trend is that after years of minimalist interiors that felt cold and staged or had a “sameness” that became something of a template for modern interiors, people are craving warmth, curated storytelling and interiors with soul. This cleaned up take on tradition is one that respects heritage while remaining undeniably contemporary.
Integrating brighter, emphatic colors into your overall design is another approach to marry traditionalism with a contemporary spirit. Interior Designer Liz Grina strives to create environments that are “effortlessly modern, endlessly inviting and blend clean lines with classic details.”
For a recent project, she elevated the interior utilizing an approach she deemed “New Traditional with a twist” mixing classic patterns, rich textures and pops of French blue and sea glass green into an otherwise neutral palette.
Ultimately, the New Traditional approach is about blending classic elegance with a modern twist in a sophisticated and comfortable way that respectfully nods to the past while embracing modern living. It emphasizes curated spaces that tell your story.
“Our role is to interpret that sensibility in a fashion-forward way, so the result is both timeless and fresh,” Marksberry shares. “For us, luxury is not only about beauty but also about comfort and longevity.”
Visit gagemartin.com and lizgrinainteriordesign.com to learn more.
BEHIND CLOSED DOORS
Designers and industry experts are heralding that a bespoke closet is the new luxury home must-have.
Some say we have Marie Kondo—the organizing consultant, author and TV personality who champions tidying up and finding what sparks joy—to thank for our preoccupation on prioritizing how we organize our wardrobe and accessory collections. After all, when was the last time you felt joyful visiting your closet?
It would also be fair to point to TV figures such as Carrie Bradshaw and the Kardashians, whose oversized walk-in closets allow them to “shop” their own possessions like a department store, as partly responsible for our collective dissatisfaction with overcrowded closets. But whatever the cause, interior designers report that even the casual clothes horses among us are feeling the itch to transform what were once standard-issue bedroom closets into thoughtfully reimagined spaces.
A lack of space was definitely the number one issue for Lori Sapienza, who recently realized that her current closet space simply wasn’t adequate and ended up creating her dream closet for her wardrobe in a small unused guest room. And just like that, she found that the conversion not only allowed her to properly store and access all her items but gave her “so much joy” in the process. Chalk one up for Marie Kondo.
Brent Irish, Owner of Closet Envy Tampa Bay, advises that this is becoming an increasingly popular trend for homeowners.
“Many of our clients repurpose guest rooms or oversized bedrooms to create dream closets,” he explains. “They want their closets to feel like personal retreats, complete with seating, soft lighting and store-style displays. It's a lifestyle upgrade that adds daily value. Recently, we turned a spare room into a boutique-style closet with a center island, curved doors mixed with oversized vintage hardware, fluted drawer fronts and leather accents with a custom acrylic display for handbags.”
Design professionals say that level of personalization is the ultimate luxury. And while it may sound indulgent to some, there are those who argue that it simply allows you to engage with your clothing in a more intentional way.
But whether you’re dreaming of upgrading your average reach-in closet or building out a spacious custom walk-in, you might have something more significant than just a place to store your clothes on your mind.
Gretchen Rubin, author of The Happiness Project and Outer Order, Inner Calm, says it’s really about how organizing your surroundings can foster a sense of inner peace. She notes that while a messy environment or crowded closet may seem trivial in the context of a happy life, getting control of our belongings can make us feel more in control of our lives.
By decluttering, we free our minds and physical spaces for what we truly value. And just like the trend to incorporate spalike features in the bathroom, personalized closet design and smart functionality can create a sense of ease for your morning routine or transform your experience when selecting just the right look for a special night out or packing for a trip.
A custom closet isn’t just a personal indulgence, it’s also ultimately a smart investment. Homebuyers today see organized storage as a must-have, and beautifully designed closets can make a home more appealing to buyers.
Companies like Closet Envy are also seeing increased demand for custom pantries, laundry rooms and even glam garages.
“Luxury garages are becoming increasingly popular, especially among clients who treat their garage as an extension of the home,” Irish explains. “We offer custom cabinetry, slat walls, durable worktops and overhead rack storage. These spaces are highly customized from tool storage to sports equipment zones to car display areas, and designed to be as stylish as they are practical. Luxury is all about attention to detail and thoughtful features that enhance functionality while elevating aesthetics.”
A FRESH TAKE
RECENT TRANSPLANT TARA GIBSON IS MAKING HER MARK ON ST. PETE WITH THE DEBUT OF A CURATED HOME STORE ON CENTRAL AVENUE.
Interior designer Tara Gibson has long felt a connection to St. Pete. Her mother and grandmother lived here first, so she’s been a frequent visitor most of her life.
“I’ve always felt a connection here,” she shares. “My husband and I got married here and, during the pandemic, we realized this was where we wanted to be. I love our little slice of heaven.”
After relocating from Chicago in 2021, where she studied and launched her career, Gibson started her design firm from home while caring for her first son, Davis. It has since grown into a full studio and expanded with Gibson’s on Central, a furniture and home accessories store offering curated pieces and design services. As the business flourished, so did her family, with the addition of a second son, Henry.
Gibson prides herself on guiding projects from concept to completion, creating cohesive, thoughtfully curated spaces.
Her niche, she says, is bespoke, high-end interiors for new construction and large-scale renovations with a modern aesthetic that balances traditional architecture with a mix of new and vintage materials.
“Our organic, modern style blends clean lines with natural materials—such as warm woods, leather, linen, metal and stone—creating a luxurious, lived-in feel,” she offers. “We believe that furnishings are the cornerstone of any beautifully designed space. From statement furniture pieces to carefully curated accents, our selections blend style, comfort and functionality.”
That belief inspired her store, which gives locals access to distinctive furnishings and accessories. Before launching, she says she felt that the choices of where to find pieces—if someone wasn’t working with a designer—were somewhat limited and disappointing.
“We knew we could do better,” she recalls. “We wanted the space to be warm and welcoming, have unique one-of-a-kind accessories and great quality upholstery. We offer design services in the store and are able to source from our vendors full catalog to get our customers exactly what they want.”
When it comes to interiors that feel timeless yet modern, Gibson draws on her love of architecture and historic styles, blending them with natural materials into carefully considered design.
“We meticulously oversee every detail, including finish selections, lighting design, custom millwork, furnishings and accessories, all to craft interiors that are both functional and beautifully harmonious,” she shares. “You can’t always explain what we chose to make a home feel like a perfect blend, but you know it when you walk in. We always design with a cohesive plan from the front door to the back door. Everything shouldn’t be new. You need a little grit, and vintage accessories placed well will always do that. They also bring a lived-in authenticity that completes the elevated yet approachable aesthetic.”
Visit taragibsoninteriors.com to learn more.
WHY HIRE A NARI CERTIFIED PROFESSIONAL?
Remodeling a home is a big decision and as a homeowner you want to be sure the remodeling professional you hire is qualified to perform the work to the highest level of professionalism, integrity and quality.
Hiring a NARI Certified Professional Assures:
■ Your remodeling professional has been vetted by the foremost remodeling industry association.
■ Your remodeling professional has met strict standards for remodeling expertise, project management and professional conduct.
■ You are selecting an expert in the field, capable of completing your project to industry management and quality best practices.
■ You are entrusting your project to a dedicated professional who is committed to his/her craft through continuing education and professional development.
Knowledge Experience
NARI has developed the Accredited Remodeling Company program to help you easily identify remodeling companies who have met the industry standard for remodeling business management and operations.
NARI Certified Professionals have demonstrated their commitment to excellence and to validating their knowledge annually. NARI offers eight certifications that recognize that knowledge.
The experience that remodelers gain from working with materials, tools and solving problems on a day-to-day basis is invaluable. A pro can anticipate potential issues and have a backup plan just in case.
Risk Management
In order to be a member in good standing, NARI company members must hold the appropriate licenses and insurance as dictated by local municipal and state laws. Make sure your contractor company is also bonded and carries insurance for their crew and staff.
Quality Is Cheapest in the Long Run
It may be tempting to renovate your bathroom or kitchen, but in the long run hiring a qualified remodeler may save you money.
Homeowners embark upon a DIY project with the best of intentions only to realize they do not have the tools required, know-how needed and available time to see the project through to completion.
To learn more about NARI’s purpose, values and code of ethics, or to FIND A NARI CONTRACTOR, visit www.naritb.org or call 727-459-3999
IN PLACE GROW
As our region experiences rapid growth and rising home prices, residents are getting creative with how they use space—Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) are leading the way by offering more affordable options and flexibility for multigenerational living.
By Anne Zimmerman Briand
ADUs might be the acronym of our time. In cities nationwide, they’re popping up as functional yet stylish answers to the affordable housing crisis—and in our area they're especially popular with design-forward homeowners and urban visionaries. Sometimes called backyard cottages, in-law suites or garage apartments, these 250–1,300-square-foot selfcontained spaces are built on the same lot as a main home. Think of them as a modern-day carriage house: compact, versatile and brimming with potential.
For Calin Olesen, founder of CASK Construction, what started as an experimental house hack became a blueprint for something bigger. After purchasing a home in St. Pete with an existing ADU, he discovered that renting out the small unit covered his mortgage and bills—giving him the confidence to launch his own company. CASK is now one of several local builders helping ADUs come to life throughout the region.
All images courtesy of CASK Construction
“First- and second-time homebuyers are facing serious affordability issues,” Olesen says. “But if a home can bring in $20,000–$30,000 per year in rental income, suddenly it becomes financially attainable to buy in the neighborhood they love.”
Meanwhile, for older homeowners, ADUs offer flexibility without sacrificing connection.
“We just completed a project where the parents, in their late 70s, moved into the ADU while their son took over the main house,” he shares. “For many families, it’s about figuring out now where Mom and Dad want to be five years from now.”
Other local builders are encountering similar situations. Suzanne Van Selow, president of Van Selow Design, says the goal is often to bring loved ones close—without crowding anyone’s independence.
“We’re doing high-end ADU builds where the primary purpose is giving a family member a private space,” she offers.
For instance, a recent project involved two sisters in Seminole, one of whom is caring for the other. Despite a tight lot with an easement, pool and generator, Van Selow fit a 630-square-foot ADU with a shared courtyard on the property—giving both sisters comfort and privacy.
Another notable project was designed for a young man with paralysis.. The 1,400-square-foot ADU, behind his parents’ home, includes two bathrooms, a kitchenette, a custom bed with lift access, space for an assistant and a ramp to an enclosed patio.
“It’s his space, but he’s close to the people who care for him,” Van Selow explains. “That’s what ADUs can do. It’s about keeping the family together.”For creative homeowners, ADUs also offer a design playground. Julia Howard, Senior Art Director at the Dali Museum, and her husband, Stephen Thomas, VP of Social Impact at the Tampa Bay Rays, saw a lot of potential behind their Historic Kenwood bungalow.
Opposite page and top right: Howard ADU and other projects by CASK Construction.
ADU interiors from CASK Construction.
“We live in a neighborhood with garages in the back,” Howard notes. “CASK Construction helped us see how cool it would be to have a storage space on the bottom and a livable unit on top that could serve more people.”
The couple originally used their ADU to host family and friends after the birth of their daughter.
“Our front house is a 2/1, so it was great to have space for guests that wasn’t right next to a crying baby,” she adds.
At 1,000 square feet, the two-bedroom, one-bathroom ADU is full of warm, airy energy—cohesively grounded by deliberate attention to furniture scale, generously proportioned windows and a minimalist layout.
“I wanted a full Japandi-style space with built-ins and storage tucked into everything,” Howard shares. “Building an ADU is all about compromise and communication. I had to let go of my 10-foot ceilings, but we still accomplished a smart design.”
Many of the finishing touches—including curated vintage art sourced from neighborhood sales, help the space reflect the soul of Kenwood itself.
“Part of the fun is solving the puzzle,” CASK’s Jeff Azcona says. “How do we lay this out on the property? How do we maximize the footprint so it doesn’t feel cramped? Even in
our 350-square-foot units, the way the kitchen, living room and bedroom flow together feels open and livable.”
“Working with microspaces teaches you quickly that things like a hallway can kill a plan,” Olesen adds. “Vaulted ceilings, pocket doors, and even just 30 extra square feet can make a space feel bigger. The way stairs enter, how doors swing, how the kitchen is arranged—these details matter.”
ADUs aren’t limited to guest suites and apartments—CASK has built gyms, home offices, recording studios and pottery workshops for their clients.
Howard’s advice for anyone dreaming of building an ADU?
“Hold on to your vision,” she asserts. “There will be adjustments, but if you stay focused, you’ll see it through. And find a contractor you feel good communicating with— because when it’s time to problem solve, that relationship really matters.”
Across our community, backyard living has become a future-forward lifestyle upgrade—with ADUs, studios and flexible outdoor structures transforming underused lots into valuable extensions of the home. No longer just bonus space, these thoughtfully designed additions are creating opportunities for multi-generational living, rental income, creative work and a way to grow in place.
ADU by Van Selow Design Build
COMPACT COMFORT
While not everyone has a sprawling backyard, we all crave a place to connect with nature, experience a moment of calm and extend our homes with a personal outdoor refuge.
Outdoor spaces are more than just an extension of your home; they are a sanctuary where you can unwind and enjoy those picture-perfect sunny days and gorgeous tropical breezes, especially between September and February, when the weather transitions from the summer heat to milder temperatures.
Whether you have a cozy balcony, a small deck or patio, maximizing these areas is essential for creating personal retreats. Making the most of small outdoor spaces can be a challenge, but it doesn’t need to be an afterthought. Even if it’s just a few square feet, your space can be transformed to maximize its potential and offer a literal breath of fresh air. With the right
design, it can become your go-to space for morning rituals, evening unwinds or simply catching some rays.
We tapped some local experts for their insights on transforming compact outdoor spaces into functional and inviting environments.
SMALL SPACE, BIG IMPACT
It all begins with a thoughtful assessment of your space. Precise measurements are essential, as is considering how you’d most like to utilize the space—lounging, dining or entertaining—and consider how to carve out clear pathways
to preserve flow and function. Then define functional zones to make the most of your layout. For instance, cozy seating areas with lounge chairs or compact bistro sets work well for relaxing or casual dining. Benches or nesting tables offer flexibility without taking up a lot of room and a storage ottoman can double as seating and a place to store things. If you have the space, consider adding focal points like a planter box, small fire pit or coffee table. The best outdoor pieces are those that don’t just provide function but narrative to express your personality and unique style, creating memorable and personal places. So seek out pieces with a point of view. Another space-saving idea would be to incorporate a drinks cart into your interior design that, when needed, can be easily transferred to your outdoor space and provides a handy food or drinks station and cuts down on multiple trips in and out.
SCALE MATTERS
"When every inch counts, oversized furniture is out and sleek, smart pieces are in. Look for armless or stackable chairs to free up both visual and physical space. Bistro tables are compact, chic and perfect for two. Folding tables or nesting side tables offer flexible surfaces without adding clutter," advises Stephanie Stegman of Elegant Outdoor Living. “One of our favorite lines for this kind of setup is Nardi, which is designed with modern, small space living in mind. Their pieces are lightweight, stylish and easy to move, with a fresh, contemporary look that won’t overpower your space. One standout option we love is their adjustable table, which easily transforms from a cocktail-height table to a bistro-style dining table with a simple stem switch—
perfect for sipping coffee during the day and entertaining at night. Their products are also 100% recyclable and eco-conscious, created using recycled materials to help reduce waste."
THE RIGHT STUFF
“When designing an outdoor space, it’s important to select materials that suit both the location and how you live. Outdoor furniture has evolved noticeably in the past five years, thanks to new production materials that offer greater durability and more design options,” offers David King, owner of DōMA Home Furnishings. “Teak, for example, is a natural material known for its warmth and texture. It does require ongoing maintenance but develops a beautiful patina over time. On the other hand, options like powder-coated steel and PVC offer a wide range of colors and shapes that require minimal upkeep. Surface materials for dining and accent pieces have also expanded, with ceramic and porcelain finishes that mimic the look of marble or stone—elevating the overall feel while being highly durable and easy to care for. The Polo and Together collections from Couture Jardin Outdoor are great examples of this.
We’re also seeing more variety in outdoor fabrics. Many textile makers now offer a variety of outdoor materials with a softness, texture and color range comparable to interior fabrics. Florida lifestyles embrace outdoor living, and treating your outdoor space as an extension of your interior ensures a more cohesive environment.”
DOWN TO EARTH
Speaking of the right materials, an outdoor rug instantly warms and softens a seating area but be sure you choose the correct type. For climates like ours where it can be rainy, damp or humid, polypropylene is your best bet. It is stain-resistant, easy to clean, won't fade from sunlight, can handle high moisture and hold up to heavy foot traffic. Polypropylene rugs provide the same feel underfoot as any natural fiber rug but are more durable and available at a more affordable cost. However, their fabrication makes them highly flammable, so do not use them near intense heat, such as fire pits or grills.
MIXING IT UP
Once you have the layout and furnishings set, accessorize with weather-resistant cushions and accessories to add warmth and cohesion. A few thoughtful touches and a unified color palette can help you achieve an inviting look. With intentional design and the right mix of elements, your small outdoor space can become something that feels personal, peaceful and perfectly you.
Visit domahomefurnishings.com and elegantoutdoors.com for more expert insights.
Nardi Net Chairs
THE ART OF FLAVOR
In our first Chef’s Table profile of our community’s most talented chefs, we sat down with restaurateur David Benstock at his celebrated IL Ritorno, one of three St. Pete eateries recently recognized by the Michelin Guide.
By NICK STEELE | Photography by SKYLER JUNE
St. Pete native Chef David Benstock started out as something of a culinary outsider.
“My mom grew up Orthodox Jewish, so we kept strictly kosher. I only ate what she cooked,” he recalls. “So, I never had pork. I never had shrimp. I never ate a lot of things. Food just wasn't a really big culture for me growing up.”
It’s a surprising revelation, given that he has since become one of the region’s most inventive and successful chefs—and the owner of a butcher shop.
The turning point came when he landed a job as a busboy at an Italian restaurant in Indian Rocks Beach.
“I had my job to do in the front, but I always gravitated toward the kitchen to see what they were doing. I thought what was going on in there was so cool,” he remembers. “It was a dream to be like those guys.”
That dream soon became reality. After a heart-to-heart with his mother about his ambitions—and the fact that he
would have to step away from their traditions—he enrolled in culinary school in Denver.
“The first month, I went to a job fair and I found the RitzCarlton booth,” Benstock explains. “I talked to the chef and he said, ‘Yeah, we can get you on board right away. Shoot me an e-mail.’ I did, but no answer. I think I sent him eight or nine emails until he probably got sick of me, but I got the job within two months of starting culinary school.”
The hitch was that the Ritz was a two-hour drive away. Determined, he doubled up on classes, spending Monday through Thursday in 12-hour sessions, then working 40 hours across Friday through Sunday at the hotel. Within six months, legendary chef Wolfgang Puck opened Spago at the Ritz.
“I went from working at Outback to culinary school and then to fine dining with Wolfgang Puck. I had awesome opportunities, but I dedicated everything to cooking,” Benstock shares. “I loved everything about it and wanted
to be the best. I would show up to work three to four hours early just to learn. I knew this is what I wanted to do…what I wanted to be.”
After more than four years with Puck, Benstock moved to New York City to work at The Modern, the Michelin two-star restaurant inside MoMA. He later spent time in Italy, absorbing regional traditions and techniques firsthand, before moving on to the three-star Michelin restaurant Quince in San Francisco and Scarpetta at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach.
It was in Miami that he met his wife, Erica. A visit home in 2012 inspired the couple’s return to St. Pete and the opening of his own restaurant.
“It was always my dream as someone from St. Pete to open a restaurant here,” he shares. “And we’ve been open for almost 12 years.”
IL Ritorno—which fittingly means “the return”— immediately struck a chord with the community and has been consistently regarded as one of Tampa Bay’s best. This year, it was recognized by the Michelin Guide, which praised it for having “boldness and flavor in spades.”
Indeed, Benstock’s culinary artistry both bold and his ingredient-driven creations are packed with flavordriven innovation. Dishes aren’t simply prepared, they’re orchestrated—each element deliberately chosen and layered to create a symphony of tastes that radiate with natural vibrancy.
“When we first opened, we were trying to do another take on Italian. Everyone around had red sauce, Alfredo, veal Parmesan, all that stuff. We wanted to be different,” he offers. “I wanted to have all the techniques and the really
cool ingredients I’d experienced over the years and bring that to St. Pete. We changed our menu seasonally back when no one else was. Every season we do a complete overhaul. Over the years, we’ve probably put 600 to 700 unique items on the menu.”
That’s because Benstock prefers not to repeat dishes if he can help it, instead letting peak-season ingredients guide his creativity.
“My passion gets relit every season because you get new ingredients,” he remarks. “That’s something to get excited about—the ingredients themselves. I also have a lot of talented guys in the kitchen who have ideas and are coming up with stuff. They’re coming to me like, ‘Hey, I want to do something like this.’ We talk it through, then we make it, taste it, tweak it…sometimes we do that 10, 20, 30 times. Their passion lights mine.”
His ever-evolving menu also isn’t confined to one region or cuisine.
“I bring to my food everything I’ve learned and experienced in the last 10 years of my career. I’m not making purely traditional Italian cuisine,” he notes. “You might see some Asian influences, French influences, Spanish influences. It’s really just my journey on a plate.”
That journey has earned Benstock many accolades, including a 2021 victory on Food Network’s Beat Bobby Flay with his Short Rib Mezzaluna with truffle fonduta, an invitation to cook at the prestigious James Beard House in New York City, a Golden Spoon Award and now Michelin recognition.
The aforementioned Mezzaluna, in fact, is the one dish you’ll always find on the menu.
“I think other people like calling it our signature dish more than me, because in my opinion it was a good example of who we were 12 years ago,” he admits. “I’ve thought about taking it off, but people here would go crazy if I did.”
For Benstock, food is less about a single dish and more about creating memorable connections.
“You can get ‘a meal’ anywhere,” he asserts. “I want to give them this incredible experience, instead of just, ‘Here’s a bowl of pasta.’ I want to blow their minds. Take our steak dish, for instance. It’s a complete experience. We have a beef tallow candle infused with rosemary garlic that we bring to the table before your steak comes out. It burns, then we bring out the steak, pour it over and we serve it with five different accoutrements. Then everyone at the table is talking about it and trying everything. That’s where the experience happens. You’re not just eating, it’s a conversation. ‘Oh, have you tried this? Have you tried that with this? Wow, that was incredible.’ And that experience becomes the reason you’re there.”
After nearly 12 years, Benstock says he’s never felt more satisfaction in the kitchen than right now—and he’s just getting started.
A CLUB REIMAGINED
FOR OVER 115 YEARS, THE ST. PETERSBURG YACHT CLUB (SPYC) HAS BEEN ONE OF THE MOST ENDURING AND BELOVED RECREATIONAL AND SOCIAL INSTITUTIONS IN THE ST. PETE COMMUNITY, SERVING GENERATIONS OF RESIDENTS AND THEIR FAMILIES.
Located in the bustling downtown waterfront district, the clubhouse has long been a hub for both the boating community and the city’s social scene. One of the hallmarks of SPYC is its relaxed atmosphere and familyoriented environment where members feel truly at home.
Founded in 1909, it ranks among the oldest yacht clubs in the United States. The original clubhouse opened at 11 Central Avenue in 1917 and was rebuilt after the devastating 1921 hurricane. The expanded facility reopened in December 1922.
Today SPYC offers two clubhouses, three marinas, full-service gourmet catering, a sailboat fleet and a wide variety of events and interest groups. Commodore Christian Bergstrom believes that the public is not aware of how much the club offers.
“The Club today is very different from what it was 10 years ago. The biggest comment we hear is, ‘I had no clue
what goes on there beyond dining and special events.’ We do so much more,” Bergstrom says. “We have all kinds of adult, family and kid-friendly activities. There’s always something happening. We have live music at our three locations on Friday and Saturday nights and something extra at the Tiki bar or clubhouses on Sundays."
He also emphasizes the Club's flexibility.
"Members can use our communal and conference spaces to work remotely or hold meetings. It’s a place to dine, swim, socialize with friends—or make new ones. Our member-run clubs within the Club offer something for everyone. Members really enjoy the variety.”
For boaters, the club provides year-round access to Tampa Bay and the Intracoastal Waterway and frequently hosts national and international regattas. But as Bergstrom notes, the club also opens doors far beyond local waters.
THE NEW GUARD
Membership is by invitation only, but Bergstrom says he’s seen a meaningful shift in the club’s makeup in recent years— particularly among younger generations whose families have long been involved.
“Yes, you can reach our clubhouses by boat or car and members receive a discount on purchasing fuel. But one of the biggest perks is reciprocal privileges with other clubs. We’re a founding member of the Florida Council of Yacht Clubs which includes 36 clubs statewide. Members can visit places like Tampa Yacht and Country Club or Sarasota Yacht Club,” he says. “In total we have agreements with nearly 450 clubs nationally and internationally.”
Those privileges extend far beyond Florida.
“We have an agreement with the New York Athletic Club, so members can stay there with views of Central Park and access dining. They can also visit the Annapolis Yacht Club, the Army Navy Club in D.C. or the Royal Thames Yacht Club in London. There are clubs in Spain, France, Japan and China. If there's water there we probably have reciprocity. Our team helps members connect with these clubs and find out about any special events or lodging opportunities.”
Surprisingly, boat ownership is not required.
“We’re built on a yachting foundation, but many members don’t own boats,” says Bergstrom. “Our maritime heritage is important, but the Club offers much more. For anyone who thinks you have to be a boater to join—you don’t. What our members value most is the sense of community.”
“We’re seeing adult children of members taking their own memberships and starting new member-run clubs and activities,” he explains. “We’ve also had an influx of new residents to the area who are seeking meaningful community connections.”
This shift reflects a broader national trend as reported in media outlets from The New York Times to the Palm Beach Post about the revival of interest in private clubs. Long seen as prestigious, these curated spaces now offer a rare blend of exclusivity community and tradition—alongside modern amenities and rich networking opportunities.
SPYC hosts regular new member open houses where prospective members can meet staff and current members. The next event is scheduled for September 26th. Interested individuals can contact the membership department for details.
RISING LIKE THE TIDE
As part of an ambitious 10-year redevelopment plan SPYC will soon create a state-of-the-art new home for this historic institution. The current building—affected by age, hurricanes and flooding—will be replaced with a luxurious new storm-resilient facility that meets Florida Building Code and FEMA standards.
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The project, slated to begin within the next three to five years, will add expanded parking, an elevated rooftop and pool deck, and upgraded kitchen facilities—all designed to provide members with a welcoming space.
In 2024, SPYC completed a major upgrade to its aging dock system. The club installed a cutting-edge floating concrete solution from SF Marina. The redesign includes 33 Type 1200 pontoons secured with 34 internal piles creating 50 generously sized leaseholder slips and over 188 meters of alongside dockage—including the fuel dock—for larger and transient vessels.
“The transition from fixed to floating concrete docks has been a dream come true,” Bergstrom says. “Our members and guests are thrilled with the layout and the appearance. It’s brought a renewed energy to the marina.”
Images and information provided by SPYC. For more information visit spyc.org
SHINING
ON
SHINE MURAL FESTIVAL, ST. PETE’S ANNUAL ART BASH THAT TRANSFORMS THE CITY INTO A LIVING OUTDOOR MUSEUM, IS SET TO RETURN WITH A FOCUS ON LOCAL ARTISTS.
By Marcia Biggs
Last October, uninvited guests Milton and Helene crashed the 10-year anniversary celebration for SHINE. The back-to-back hurricanes resulted in widespread destruction across Tampa Bay and fizzled big plans for the festival, which was rescheduled to November.
With eyes to the skies, the organizers of this year’s festival announced the event would take place November 7th through the 16th, making it unlikely that a hurricane will cause havoc again.
“I think we learned from last year this is a safe, wise move as we enter our second decade,” offers Helen French, the recently appointed new executive director of the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance (SPAA), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) dedicated to advocating for the arts and driving arts-related economic impact, which spearheads the event.
The SPAA has stated that the annual festival “illuminates the power of art in public spaces by revitalizing areas, inspiring dialogue and uniting our community—while cultivating new standards of artistic excellence reflecting St. Petersburg's creative and vibrant spirit by using the walls and streets as canvas.”
Each year, SHINE invites 10 to 20 muralists to participate, which typically includes local, national and international artists, as well as four community-based “bright spots” projects to allow local residents to assist in painting a mural. SHINE provides compensation for the artists and funding for room, board, food and airfare. In an effort to honor the individual visions and voices of the artists, the muralists have full creative expression outside of some basic community standards. Most
mural artists earn their living through commissioned projects for private businesses, so the exposure that SHINE provides is very valuable.
With this year’s SHINE Origins theme, the SPAA made the decision to focus exclusively on local artists, as a way of devoting its resources to support, promote and celebrate the incredible talent present within the St. Pete area at a time when many of those artists are still recovering from hurricane damage and returning to their creative spaces. Organizers are keeping a tight lid on the participating artists until they are ready to announce the full lineup in September.
“The theme honors the origins of the festival and looks at how we are growing into the second decade,” French shares. “We’ll be looking back at some of the founding mural artists to see where we started and how far we’ve come.”
Nicknamed the "Art City" because of its thriving arts scene, St. Pete has somewhere between 500 to 600 murals in total, some dating back to the early 2000s; many of the earliest can be found around the historic 600 block of Central Avenue—and of those, over 180 are SHINE murals which have been commissioned since the festival began in 2015.
In recent years, nationally and internationally known artists have been keen to take part in this highly anticipated event, raising St. Pete’s reputation globally.
“The SHINE Mural Festival began as an opportunity to showcase the depth of talent in our community through art for the public to enjoy for years to come,” SPAA Board Chair Ryan Griffin shared in April when the format for this year’s festival was announced. “I’m thrilled to see the festival continue to grow
all these years later and the commitment to our local artists for SHINE #11.”
“There is so much incredible talent here, this year our goal is to keep the momentum going and help our local artists build an international reputation,” adds French.
Over the last 10 years, the SPAA has expanded its focus from primarily downtown to include other area arts districts. This year’s festival will continue this expansion throughout the city. The festival was the first in the world to offer a free and accessible audio tour through the PixelStix app to allow anyone with an Apple or Android phone to find and interact with the murals. There are also regularly scheduled “vintage style” open-air Star Trolley mural tours. Florida CraftArt also offers both walking tours of the Central Arts District in downtown and bike tours that cover downtown, the Edge District and the Warehouse Arts District.
Visit stpeteartsalliance.org for more information.
REATIVITY Billboards of
Jenée Priebe, the former director of the SHINE Mural Festival and founder of No Good Deeds Art, speaks with Avery Anderson, the founder of Tampa Bay Arts Passport, about the evolution of St. Petersburg’s mural scene.
We pass them every day—towering birds, cosmic jungles, surreal portraits splashed across old brick and stucco. St. Pete’s murals are more than city decor—they’re cultural currency.
Jenée Priebe has helped bring more than 180 murals to life across the city. Her mission? Championing public art that’s driven by artists, not advertising.
“People don’t always realize what goes into a mural,” Priebe offers. “It’s not just showing up and painting. It’s permits, surface prep, equipment rentals, color orders, weather—plus making sure the artist is paid fairly and on time.”
SHINE TIME
During her more than seven years with SHINE, Priebe and her team flipped the script on how murals are typically commissioned. Instead of dictating concepts or brand
alignment, they offered artists something rare: total creative freedom.
“We weren’t selling a product,” she explains, “We were offering up public space as a canvas—for art’s sake.”
That meant no logos, no slogans, no filters. Artists were selected for their consistency and vision, not their willingness to take feedback.
“It was like putting up a billboard,” Priebe says, “but instead of selling something, it was selling nothing but creative expression.”
HURRICANES AND BOOM LIFTS
In 2024, Hurricane Milton hit the day before the SHINE mural festival was supposed to begin. Priebe evacuated with her two kids, her mom—and three international artists.
“One had just landed. I said, ‘Hi, welcome to Florida, get in the car,’” she recalls with a laugh.
Also caught in the chaos? A 150-foot boom lift, valued at half a million dollars, that had to be privately hauled to Tampa before the storm.
“If that thing got damaged, it would’ve bankrupted us,” she says. Still, every mural got painted. “Just… later.”
WHAT PEOPLE GET WRONG
Murals may be free to view, but they aren’t free to make.
Priebe says the going rate is $15–$30 per square foot, not including lifts, prep, base coats or weather delays.
“It adds up fast,” she explains. “But this is skilled labor. It’s a profession. And we’re still pushing back on this idea that artists should work for exposure.”
Another misconception? Ownership.
“The murals may be public,” she says, “but the copyrights still belong to the artist. You can’t print them on a tote bag or use them in an ad without permission.”
CREATIVE FREEDOM
Priebe recently launched her consulting firm No Good Deeds Art to offer public art consulting, project management, artist recommendations and mural tours.
She is currently working on a series of five temporary murals at the St. Pete Pier to celebrate the newest iteration’s fifth anniversary. She and her collaborators—Johnny Vitale of the Vitale Brothers and Jay Turner of Ankor Skate Supply— are also developing City Art Walls, an indoor-outdoor venue for rotating murals, artist residencies and creative community programming.
“Think Wynwood Walls,” Priebe says, “but right here in St. Pete.”
Post-COVID, she’s seen property ownership shift away from local hands, making mural approvals trickier.
“It’s harder to knock on a door and get a yes,” she says. “So, we want to build something that preserves creative freedom regardless of what happens to the city around it.”
Priebe leads trolley and walking mural tours and encourages locals to do what they can: book a tour, commission a mural, collect original art, talk to your city council representative.
“Art doesn’t stay unless we fight for it,” Priebe stresses. “So, fight loud.”
Visit nogooddeedsart.com for more information and to read more from Anderson, check out tbartspassport.com
A Culinary Celebration
SAVOR St. Pete returns, bigger, bolder and more delicious than ever.
For over a decade, the SAVOR St. Pete Food & Wine Festival has been more than an event—it has become a hallmark of St. Pete’s evolving culinary identity. On Saturday, November 1st and Sunday, November 2nd, Vinoy Waterfront Park will play host to the 13th annual celebration, offering an immersive weekend that marries flavor, craft and community against the sweeping backdrop of Tampa Bay.
“We’ve been working toward this moment for over a decade and 2025 will truly be our biggest year yet!” shares Tammy Gail, creator and owner of SAVOR, who produces the festival with partner Jeannette Adelman. “From major culinary names to premium drink activations and new carefully curated experiences, we’re taking everything guests already love and pushing it to the next level.”
that represents decades of learning, growth, setbacks and triumphs. Her vision for SAVOR was sparked more than a decade ago after having been a sponsor of the South Beach Food & Wine Festival in 2008 and 2009.
Gail is a trailblazing entrepreneur whose company celebrated 30 years in August. She says that it is a milestone
“We had a bird’s-eye view of a well-run event and knew there was tremendous opportunity to develop something special in the Bay Area. In 2011, the general manager of the Clearwater Beach Hyatt Hotel contacted us and asked if we would be interested in developing a food and wine festival utilizing the Hyatt as our host hotel. The city was onboard and the pieces fell into place to launch Clearwater Beach Uncorked. After a successful 8-year run on Clearwater Beach, we had outgrown the space based on development on the beach and lack of parking. We were approached by a few other municipalities to bring the event to their location, but I have always been a huge fan of St. Pete. Upon moving, we morphed the name to SAVOR St. Pete.”
Spanning six expansive tents and more than 40,000 square feet of shaded space along the waterfront, SAVOR offers guests a curated journey through the region’s culinary landscape. The Grand Tasting Village, the heart of the festival, features local rockstar chefs, restaurants, nationally acclaimed vineyards and craft breweries. Visitors can experience live cooking demonstrations on the San Pellegrino Cooking Stage, presented by Publix, where regional and national chefs bring their skills to the forefront. Brian Malarkey, known for Cutthroat Kitchen and Carlos Anthony, winner of CHOPPED and featured on Food Network’s Hot List, will be two of the celebrity chefs participating this year and demonstrating the Chefs Life brand of chef-blended restaurant quality cooking oils, designed to enhance the flavor of meals at home.
“Chef Carlos and I absolutely love engaging with the public. We love people. We're going to put on a show. We're going
to make amazing food and we're going to laugh extremely loud!" says Malarkey. “Publix has been an amazing partner to Chefs Life, inviting us to come to SAVOR St. Pete and bring our full line of oils. The event just looks like such a huge, great party. Who doesn't love a huge, great party?”
For the first time, VIP ticket holders can experience the high-energy excitement of the Chefs Culinary Competition presented by Visit St. Pete Clearwater, where top local culinarians face off in a heated showdown, from noon to 1pm on Saturday.
“We have a group of some of the greatest Bay Area chefs vying for the first place title and it will not disappoint!” Gail promises. “ A juried panel of media judges will preside over the festivities and will be assessing each chef’s creations based on artistic techniques and local flavors. Winner takes all!”
Cocktail enthusiasts can explore the Mixology Experience Lounge, presented by Publix Liquor Stores and Fever Tree
Mixers, offering hands-on mixology sessions, premium spirits and a relaxed lounge environment.
“We feel there is no other event even close to SAVOR St. Pete,” Gail asserts, explaining what sets the festival apart. “People travel from across the country to attend and the event has become a beacon for foodies. We spare no expense to keep our guests in an environment where they can truly appreciate great culinary talent. We will be welcoming over 4,000 culinary aficionados over the weekend.”
Her deep appreciation for the community fuels her passion to elevate the city’s gastronomic reputation. More than a weekend event—it’s a celebration of the city, its flavors and the
people who make it thrive. Having moved to Pinellas County in 1994, she recalls being instantly smitten with the area.
Beyond the onsite activities, the festival also helps elevate the local restaurant scene.
“SAVOR has become a heritage event that I am wildly proud of,” she says. “We will continue to help build this beautiful city and introduce tourists to this amazing market that offers so much. The event drives guests to restaurants they may never have tried.”
Recently named a 2025 “Elite Event” by Visit St. Pete Clearwater, SAVOR has become an inspiration for culinary tourism.
“We are constantly pushing to do more and better each year. We work so hard and we have so much fun. And when our guests arrive, we have over 4,000 people that are having the time of their lives. There is nothing more energizing than that. Knowing you are a part of that passion is amazing.”
General Admission tickets, priced at $120 per person, include access from 1pm to 4pm, unlimited tastings of food, wine and beer, live DJ entertainment, a limited-edition wine glass and a custom SAVOR tote. VIP Admission, at $150 per person, includes early entry at 12pm and access to the VIP Spirits Lounge with plush seating and exclusive tastings of boutique spirits.
Tickets and information are available at SavorTheBurg.com
Deanna Barcelona CLOSINGS with a CAUSE
Helping
After
Let’s
her INFLUENCE
What do you get when you combine a media-trained on-air personality, a social media influencer, a marketing strategist, an events producer and a content creator? A rapidly rising force to be reckoned with.
BY NICK STEELE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY SANDRASONIK
AAlexia Gonzalez stands apart from the eager throng of social media influencers producing endless user-generated content. With more than a decade in broadcasting, public relations, marketing and production, she has parlayed her unique set of skills into a marketable commodity for brands that need the kind of dynamic creative content and activations that she can deliver. But there’s more to the story, Gonzalez describes herself as a “modern storyteller,” driven by a passion for connecting people, brands and communities through authentic experiences.
Raised in Miami, she was immersed in the Hispanic broadcast media as both of her parents worked in the industry.
“I was literally raised running through radio station hallways putting on live shows for the staff, sneaking into DJ booths and hanging out backstage,” she recalls. “I fell in love with storytelling early on through acting, music and writing.”
That exposure eventually led her to land a role in the Spanish-language mini-series Gabriel, Amor Inmortal. She even recorded a Billboard-charting pop single with Sony Records which was featured on the show’s soundtrack.
She stepped away from her fledgling acting career to pursue a master’s degree in multicultural marketing and digital studies from Florida State University, which eventually led her into the world of public relations, marketing and content creation. This allowed her to represent clients as a brand spokesperson, appearing on television and radio shows, as well as contributing to publications like USA Today, The Huffington Post and Haute Living.
“That took me all over the world, hosting press trips, brand activations and telling stories for brands like Hard Rock and Marriott,” she recalls. “But I always felt pulled back to the creative side, cultivating stories that connect. That’s what fuels me and my business, The Gala Group—blending strategy with my love for authentic storytelling, while staying deeply connected to my community here in St. Pete.”
She has manifested that commitment to staying connected through the creation of St. Pete Gals, a thriving collective that offers content creators, entrepreneurs, artists and business owners an opportunity to collaborate and connect.
“When I first moved to St. Pete, I didn’t know anyone. It was the women in this community who welcomed me, opened doors and gave me the connections that allowed me to thrive. I wanted to pay that forward and create a space where other women could feel that same sense of belonging and support,” she explains. “At the heart of it, the mission is simple: to uplift, inspire and celebrate women.”
She channels that same energy into her marketing pursuits.
“My favorite part of what I do is creating content that connects with people while shining a light on the best of my community,” she shares. “Those stories are what make up the unique mosaic of our city. Behind every brand or campaign, there’s a deeper story. That’s exactly where my love for media and PR meet. I’m constantly looking for ways to make connections and help others grow their own brands. If I visit a new location or event, I usually have my phone up filming and sharing what’s happening in real time.”
The ”real time” aspect is one that requires a great deal of energy and flexibility.
“No two days in my life are ever the same and I love that. One day might start with hot yoga before filming and posting reels, then I might be involved in a TV segment. Another day could be traveling for a client collaboration, hosting a morning radio show or bringing one of my projects to life. I’ve had days where I’ve eaten at five restaurants just to capture content.”
And while she flies high and fast, she has a secret to staying grounded.
“My husband Michael is the rock to my kite. I’m constantly buzzing around, meeting new people, chasing ideas…he’s my steady balance,” she says. “I like to call him my human Xanax. He’s the reason I had the courage to step away from the corporate world to start my own business five years ago. He’s been there through every whim and every wild idea. He is my best friend and partner in everything.”
When asked who has had the greatest impact on her life, she answers without pause.
“Hands down, my mama, Lourdes Garcia, has had the biggest influence. She’s a bilingual immigrant from Cuba who went from beauty queen to powerhouse executive. Her story still blows me away,” she shares. “Growing up in a dictatorship, fleeing with my grandparents, starting over in multiple countries and then finally landing in Miami where she built a successful career. Her magnetic energy, resilience and kindness inspire me every day”
Expect to see a lot more from this high-flying modern storyteller, who is coming at you in real time.
Alexia wears a dress by Bobbles & Lace St. Pete. Visit thegalalife.com to learn more.
A ST. PETE FAVORITE RETURNS
Beth Ann Drake visits a historic St. Pete eatery, now reimagined for a new era.
Those of us who have been living in the ’Burg for a while remember the 40-year legacy of the Melting Pot on 4th Street. While that location is now a fond memory, the tradition continues at their newest location on Central Avenue. Celebrating 50 years, the new Melting Pot is reintroducing St. Pete to its interactive fondue experience.
The indoor/outdoor bar welcomes both diners and those stopping by for a cocktail. Step into the dining area and soak in the warm ambiance. Tabletops are outfitted with two burners—your server prepares the fondue, and you and your guests create your own entrées.
The four-course option begins with your choice of half a dozen cheese fondues, served with fruit, bread, and vegetables for dipping. Next comes one of four distinctive salads, from the strawberry spinach with gorgonzola, honey-roasted almonds and golden raisins to the California with candied pecans, tomatoes and mixed greens.
Before selecting entrées, you will choose a cooking style. We opted for the Mojo, infused with bright Caribbean citrus flavors, garlic and cilantro. Entrée selections are plentiful, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. The Land & Sea features steak, chicken, shrimp and salmon, while the Pacific Rim offers shrimp, steak, potstickers, ahi tuna and duck breast.
The meal concludes with a decadent chocolate fondue. Choose from half a dozen variations in white or dark chocolate or try the flambé for a dramatic finish. With so many choices, the evening offers not just a meal, but an experience.
Promotional Feature: created in partnership with The Melting Pot. Visit meltingpot.com/saintpetersburg-fl to learn more.
Exploring St. Pete’s Vibrant Culture INSIDER
FROM A NOSTALGIC LOUNGE REDEFINING NIGHTLIFE AND WOMEN OF SONG FILLING THE AIRWAVES WITH PASSION, TO BUCKET LIST PLANNING AND COMMUNITY WALKS FOR GREAT CAUSES, OUR INSIDERS SHARE THE PEOPLE AND PLACES SHAPING OUR CITY.
RETRO ROOST
Nanette Wiser channels her inner vintage vixen at a Grand Central lounge and music venue steeped in speakeasy charm.
By late afternoon, the outdoor stools at Tampa Bay Drinkery are filled with regulars watching the scene begin to take shape in the throwback cocktail lounge that opened at the end of last year at 2756 Central Avenue, just steps from such hotspots as Wild Child, Baba, Slim Charmer and Casita Taqueria. Inside, live music and laid-back conversations inform the atmosphere, setting the stage for the evening ahead and serving as a sort of gateway to the Grand Central District’s low-key nightlife scene.
Owner Wellington Moto has conjured this postcard to another era by assembling a scene out of the past, populated by antique couches, Oriental rugs, red draperies, vintage oddities and meticulously assembled artifacts that allow you to feel you have slipped back in time…or at least stumbled upon a storied old watering hole. Moto wanted to ensure that music was the heart of the venue, installing both an elegant baby grand piano perched on a small stage and a vinyl record player. The otherwise nondescript façade beckons with handpainted exclamations of craft cocktails, live music, beer and vinyl records—like a seductively nostalgic siren’s call.
You can sip Prohibition-era cocktails, bubbly, more than 30 bourbons, boutique French and Italian wines and craft beers. On Sunday nights, Scotty Wright sings while Hiram Hazley and Le Jazz, joined by guest musicians, play sets at 7pm and again at 10pm.
The crowd shifts as the evening progresses. Early happy hour brings a young mix, sipping margaritas and martinis. Later, neighborhood couples and Central Avenue bar hoppers stop in, followed by the late-night jazz fans who also show up at CJ’s for TomKat Orchestra or The Hangar for the Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Jam on Mondays.
There’s no food yet at the Drinkery, so it’s best to grab a bite before you arrive. Monday nights feature karaoke from 9pm to 1am, followed by hospitality specials that run until 2am.
Open daily from 2pm to 3am, Tampa Bay Drinkery offers a laid-back setting where eavesdropping on your neighbor’s conversation can occasionally be as entertaining as the performers on stage.
Visit instagram.com/tbdstpete for more information.
ELECTRICAL | MECHANICAL | PLUMBING | SYSTEMS
TECHNOLOGIES
SUPPORTING COMMUNITIES WHERE WE LIVE AND WORK
BEYOND THE BITE
Auguste Escoffier, the legendary French chef, restaurateur and culinary writer once remarked, “Good food is the foundation of genuine happiness.” At our Best of 2025 VIP event, some of our winners and sponsors spread that happiness one bite at a time.
By N.J. Vallone | Photography by Misha Pokusa and Emily Will
When we brought together the community’s most talented individuals and celebrated businesses for an evening honoring the best of everything, we knew we’d need help from our culinary friends to deliver a taste of the area that was as memorable as it was flavorful. Several honorees and event sponsors answered the call.
Power Design set the tone with its signature “Power Punch,” a playful twist on the classic French 75 crafted with McQueen and The Violet Fog hibiscus berry gin by the expert bar staff at The Floridian Social.
As for the food, the Best Bites Showcase was designed to offer a literal taste of the community—its diversity, creativity and spirit. Whether you call it an amuse-bouche, a morsel or simply a bite, each offering was a delicious reminder of why these chefs and restaurants stand out—and they did not disappoint.
“The food was truly a highlight of an already wonderful evening,” says De Bowles, a Real Estate Advisor with Engel & Völkers. “It was such a treat to sample these extraordinary dishes and chat with the chefs and restaurateurs who created them.”
CULINARY CANVAS
IL Ritorno Executive Chef David Benstock and his team, who won top honors in our fine dining category and are known for introducing distinctively diverse flavor combinations using global inspiration and diverse cooking techniques, created a custom bite specifically for the event. General Manager Joe Adams and Sous Chef Dani Demarzo delighted guests with their Truffle Hamachi Tartare with Crispy Nori and Caviar. The indulgent offering was carefully crafted by Benstock and his team to deliver a quintessential taste of the restaurant’s signature style.
“The big thing in a situation like this is balance of flavor,” he offers. “You have one bite to get everything on there.”
He explains that the balance of flavors and textures was designed to delight the palate and pack a punch, making the experience fulfilling and memorable.
Visit ilritornodowntown.com to learn more.
CONSCIOUS CUISINE
Our winner for Best Prepared Meal Service, A Good Human, brought bites with benefits. The company is popular with clients for its focus on the three pillars of health: gut health, anti-inflammatory support and hormone balance.
“We know that getting this right is the cornerstone of feeling good, inside and out,” explains CEO and Founder Kate Harvey. “Too often, convenience food means bland, processed meals that leave you feeling sluggish and unsatisfied. We’re here to change that. Our mission is to show people that eating well doesn’t have to be a sacrifice—it can be delicious, satisfying and genuinely good for you.”
For the event, they offered Organic Honey & Miso Chicken Balls, Hot Honey Halloumi and Peach Kabobs, Nutty Baja Sea Salt Electrolyte Bars, and Organic Turmeric, Ginger, Black Pepper, Cardamom Shot Bombs.
“We picked these because they truly reflect what we stand for, with no compromises on taste or quality. For instance, the chicken balls are a perfect blend of natural ingredients. The miso adds a rich umami flavor while promoting gut health through its fermentation. Honey provides a natural
sweetness and, together with ginger and garlic, the combination offers an anti-inflammatory and digestive-supporting effect that also boosts immunity,” Harvey explains. “The shot bombs combine potent organic ingredients renowned for their anti-inflammatory and gut-healing properties. We’re about making healthy eating simple, convenient and delicious—especially for people who don’t have hours to cook but still want to feel great.”
At press time, the company confirmed it will combine its meal prep and wholesale food businesses and rebrand as Goodness Co. Use code GOODNESS to receive 10% off meal delivery.
Visit goodnessco.co to learn more.
VIBRANT HARMONY
Our winner for best Asian restaurant, La V - Vietnamese Fusion, located at 441 Central Avenue, is renowned for its vibrant blend of traditional Vietnamese flavors and modern culinary twists. This popular eatery offers a chic, contemporary dining experience with a focus on fresh ingredients.
Owner Thuy Le was on hand and personally treated guests to two specialties from their menu. The first was Sesame Beef Vermicelli, a rice noodle dish with tender beef, crunchy vegetables and a bright, zesty sesame dressing, which was savory, full of freshness, flavor and texture. The second item was Fusion Fried Rice, featuring wok-tossed jasmine rice infused with garlic, shallots, savory-sweet soy and fresh herbs, providing a fragrant, sweet and salty flavor profile in every bite.
Le says that Vietnamese cuisine is all about harmony— balancing sweet, salty, spicy and umami in a way that feels light yet deeply satisfying.
From September 15th through the 30th, they will be featuring a Mid-Autumn Festival special and Pho-tober Fest in October, with $4 off any pho on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Visit lavfusion.com to learn more.
SAVORY SELECTIONS
A recent addition to the St. Pete restaurant scene, The Blu Halo brings a refined yet approachable dining experience in the heart of the Carillon area. The menu showcases classic American dishes with a modern twist, crafted from the freshest ingredients. For the event, owner Andy Donato and Executive Chef David Smith offered guests a chance to sample their Scallop Caprese from the eatery’s current menu.
Smith explains that the classic pairing of heirloom tomatoes, aged balsamic and extra virgin olive oil beautifully complements the delicate sweetness of the seared scallops and the addition of shaved 24-month Parmigiano Reggiano brings the whole dish together.
“Our guests who come to dine with us frequently order from our dishes like this one that represents our fresh market seafood and prime steaks, as well as staples like our Ahi Tuna Poke and our Bone-in Pork Chop served with a blueberry Chèvre and blueberry chutney.
In the coming months, guests can look forward to curated wine pairings, seasonal menu items and festive holiday specials.
Visit thebluhalostpete.com to learn more.
SIGNATURE SCOOPS
On the sweet side, Paciugo Gelato & Caffe brought one of their adorable mobile catering carts and served award-winning artisanal gelato. Their gelato is always in high demand at their wildly popular shop at 300 Beach Drive NE, where they also offer specialty coffees and custom-made cakes.
“We make all our gelato fresh in-house daily, with no preservatives or additives,” explains owner Debbie Safko. “We use a proprietary blend of milk with about 8 to 9 percent fat with no butter.”
The use of such fresh, high-quality and natural ingredients results in a traditional Italian treat with a distinctive creamy texture and intense flavors that showcase the true essence of their source ingredients. Paciugo's gelato is also known for being lower in fat than traditional ice cream, with milk-based flavors typically having 70% less fat.
The flavors served at the event were among the most popular of the 36 they offer in the store and included the Texas
Pecan Sea Salt Caramel (featuring authentic dulce de leche, roasted pecans and a pinch of sea salt), Coffee Toffee Cafe Caramel (a delicate blend of coffee and caramel with chocolate chips and Heath Bar pieces swirled throughout), Strawberry Sorbet (one of the nine vegan flavors) and Fondente (rich dark chocolate).
Visit paciugostpete.com to learn more.
FAST FORWARD
Barbara Green shares the inside scoop on South St. Petersburg’s newest 5K run, a vibrant celebration of health and community.
This fall, South St. Petersburg will shine in a new light as runners, walkers and neighbors gather for a celebration of health, community and local pride. On October 4th, the Foundation for a Healthy St. Petersburg will launch its inaugural We Run These Streets 5K, designed to showcase the beauty of this often-overlooked part of the city while promoting wellness and connectedness.
Far more than just a race, this event is a movement in motion. While honoring the close-knit neighborhoods and strong sense of community that make South St. Pete unique, it also highlights the need to improve health outcomes for our community’s most marginalized residents. The race is the latest initiative from Dr. Kanika Tomalin, president and CEO of the Foundation. A fifth-generation St. Pete resident, Tomalin envisioned the race as an opportunity to uplift a part of the city that’s often under-celebrated.
“We Run These Streets is about bringing people together from different parts of our city to build community ties and community health,” explains Tomalin. “It’s about honoring the health of our bodies, the strength and resilience of this sunshine city and the beauty of our local neighborhoods that have shaped generations of residents.”
The course will wind through natural gems like the mangrove-lined trails near Twin Brooks Golf Course before threading through the vibrant Child’s Park neighborhood, giving participants a fresh perspective on the area’s offerings. Whether you're a seasoned runner or simply looking to enjoy
a morning walk with neighbors, the 5K promises a warm, welcoming atmosphere for all ages and fitness levels.
While the Foundation is organizing and hosting the run, the dynamic team at Good Sweat Foundation, Inc (formerly EndorFun Sports) which produces the St. Pete Run Fest and other high-profile area races is providing support behind the scenes.
“Our team shares the Foundation's mission of health and inclusion, and we believe this event can truly make a difference,” shares Ryan Jordan, who heads up the Good Sweat Foundation alongside his brother, Keith Jordan. “We've seen how running and walking events can inspire community action and we're thrilled to be involved.”
We Run These Streets marks the Foundation’s 10th anniversary in the community and reflects its broader mission of improving the systems and conditions that shape community health, particularly in historically underserved areas. By bringing people together on October 4th, the Foundation aims to spark joy, deepen connections and ignite conversations about what it means to thrive in good health—together.
“Expect a lively event, complete with music, local vendors and plenty of community spirit,” offers Tomalin. “This event is for everyone. You can run your fastest and push for a personal record, walk at your own speed, cheer others on or stroll with your kids. It’s your race, your pace. We want you here, however you show up.”
Visit healthystpete.foundation/5k to learn more.
STYLE IN MOTION
Nitish S. Rele salutes one of the most iconic sports cars on the road as it celebrates its 36th birthday.
The world’s best-selling roadster, the Mazda Miata, also known as, MX-5—which has racked up 1.2 million units sold and counting—has been much loved by top-down motoring enthusiasts for its sportiness, agility and affordability. Zero to 60 can be reached in just 5.5 seconds in this legendary convertible and is truly a fun car to take for a spin.
Under the hood of the 2025 MX-5 sits a Skyactiv-G 2.0-liter DOHC inline-4-cylinder engine, which pumps out 181 horsepower at 7000 rpm and 151 pounds-feet of torque at 4000 rpm. The direct-injection Skyactiv uses a torque boost via a high compression ratio to increase fuel economy. We averaged a nearly combined 30 mpg, beating EPA estimates.
The cabin is elegant, lavish and offers comfy seats. The instrument cluster of rounded tachometer, speedometer, coolant temperature and fuel gauges in black with white letters is pleasing to the eye. The only minus is the minuscule trunk, which is understandable in a two-seater.
Specifications
Tires: 205/45R17
Wheelbase: 90.9 inches
Length: 154.1 inches
Width: 68.3 inches
Height: 48.6 inches
Weight: 2,366 pounds
Fuel capacity: 11.9 gallons
Mileage: 26/34/29
(city and highway/combined)
The roadster is mated to a sole 6-speed manual gearbox in the Club test-drive trim, which should be the only transmission offered in this reviewer’s opinion. It shifts quickly and quietly, resulting in a smooth ride. The sport-tuned suspension, equipped with Bilstein shock absorbers, is skillfully controlled by a double wishbone front and multilink rear system. This lively convertible, with its manual Z-shaped folding black cloth top, features electric power-assist steering.
Standard safety features include dual front and side airbags, four-wheel antilock brakes with stability and traction control, three-point seatbelts with pretensioners and force limiters, rearview camera, blind spot monitor, rear-cross traffic alert, lane departure warning, side-impact door beams, shock tower brace, anti-theft engine immobilizer and a tire pressure monitoring system.
The MX-5 is an adventure in and of itself. Open-air motoring buffs will have a blast on the highway or tackling the rigors of daily driving, thanks to the convertible’s swift and nimble performance. And at just $33,030, the fuel-sipper is a bargain. May this much-loved roadster bring smiles and pleasure for many more years to come!
Nitish S. Rele, the editor/publisher of Motoring Tampa Bay and Khaas Baat, can be reached at motoringtampabay@gmail.com
TWO EVENTS. ONE MISSION.
This fall, the Celma Mastry Ovarian Cancer Foundation invites the community to unite for two unforgettable experiences benefiting ovarian cancer awareness.
Celma Mastry was a beloved member of the St. Pete community and one of the city’s most prominent philanthropists and volunteers. A gifted leader, she chaired numerous nonprofit committees that enriched the Tampa Bay area, including the arts, medical and educational organizations. Her leadership, generosity and commitment of time made her a community icon. She supported many causes, among them the American Heart Association, Florida Suncoast Opera Guild, Boys & Girls Club, Museum of Fine Arts and CASA.
In 2003, while battling the disease herself, she and her family founded the Celma Mastry Ovarian Cancer Foundation. Although she lost her battle with the illness in 2004, the foundation carries on her legacy by supporting research, promoting early detection and providing financial assistance to patients.
Mastry is survived by eight children, a large extended family and countless friends who lovingly call her their “heroine” for her courage and her determination to help others.
Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because its symptoms—bloating, pelvic pain, fatigue and changes in appetite—are easy to dismiss. According to the American Cancer Society, about 19,700 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed this year and more than 12,700 will lose their lives. One of the greatest challenges is that no reliable screening test exists— not even the Pap smear detects it. In more than 70% of cases, the cancer is found in later stages, when treatment is more
difficult and survival rates are lower. Yet when detected early, the five-year survival rate can be as high as 93%.
On September 13th, the annual One Step Closer Castaway 5K returns for its 22nd year, featuring a tropical run, the scenic S.S. Minnow Mile and a new addition—the Island Stiletto Dash, where participants walk a mile in high heels in solidarity with those battling the disease.
Then, on November 7th at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, guests will set sail for Gilligan’s Return, a playful spin on the classic gala where attendees are encouraged to come as they are or dress as their favorite island character. Co-chaired by Mastry’s daughter Julie Mastry, grandson Rob Bowen and Jason Teabout, the evening will blend tropical dining, live island music, games and a best-dressed contest.
These events celebrate connection and purpose as they raise funds for research, awareness and direct financial support for women in treatment.
“As Celma’s family, we feel a responsibility to continue the fight she began—not just for her, but for every woman facing this disease today and for generations to come,” shares Bowen. “Together, we can change the outcome and bring us one step closer to ending ovarian cancer for good.”
Visit ovariancancerfoundation.org for tickets, sponsorships and more information.
The MFA offers a dynamic range of art experiences, from expansive exhibitions to thought-provoking contemporary shows and focused displays that illuminate the depth of its growing collection. Our encyclopedic collection, spanning nearly 5,000 years of civilization, showcases over 20,000 objects from antiquity to the present, representing diverse global artistic traditions. Plan your visit today.
OPENING OCTOBER 25, 2025
Unforgettable Moments Start with the Right Venue
Why settle for ordinary? Host your next celebration in a venue that’s truly unique. Perfect for weddings, parties, galas, corporate experiences, and everything in between!
Michelangelo Merisi, known as Caravaggio, Boy Bitten by a Lizard c. 1597, Oil on canvas, Fondazione di Studi di Storia dell’Arte Roberto Longhi, Florence, Italy
Nanette Wiser invites you to check out three dynamic artists she has worked alongside at RadioStPete (RSP): Fiona Frensche, June Bunch and Sandy Atkinson, whose styles range from a quirky blend of jazz, blues, pop and bossa nova called “JazzyPopaNova” to folk and the blues, and who are empowering and inspiring other female singers and songwriters with their ferocity—hear them roar!
Frensche mentors, Bunch vibrates with creativity and Atkinson is keeping the blues red-hot for local audiences. All three make it their mission to tell stories with songs while also shining a light on the legacy of little-known artists and female chanteuses. Their jour-
neys and genres are nothing alike, but their dedication to creativity and making music “their way” is a shared passion. What they also have in common is that they use music to educate, empower and entertain—one note at a time.
Frensche is the trailblazer, who launched the podcast Women of Song, which highlighted female singer-songwriters in 2023 for RSP. Though she ceded that territory to Bunch in summer 2024, she still pops in for live performances and interviews with musicians. She has also nurtured and supported Girls Rock St. Pete alumni who are studying music at such prestigious institutions as Berklee College of Music and the College of William & Mary.
“Whether it’s technical help or songwriting craft, I want to nurture, support and empower young musicians—so they can do what they do best: deliver songs of love, tell stories and nurture our community,” offers Frensche, who previously lived and worked in New York City and toured as a cruise ship performer before settling in St. Pete twelve years ago. An avid reader, lover of art and vintage fashion, she has also created Le Frensche Cabaret, which celebrates the women who made the French cabaret songbook famous.
Bunch, who is a folk musician, visual artist and also works in marketing, events and graphics for The Morean Arts Center by day, is the host of Lyrical Ladies, which airs on Mondays from 4 to 5pm. She performs regularly at Pistil House and also at Sparkman Wharf on Fridays in October. For fans of Billie Eilish or ears raised on Evanescence, Bunch released the song Morrison this summer, an ode to the Morrison Formation around Moab, Utah. Her words, carried in siren-esque tones and accompanied by warbling strings and synth, come clear and close as she sings, “Evaporate who I’d been...Just blood, red rock and wind." The soundscape expands into lilting interjections, featuring bursts of percussion building and falling back into echoes between verses.
Atkinson is a dynamic vocalist, songwriter and bandleader from the Tampa Bay area. Known for her versatile voice—breathy, raspy and soulful—she effortlessly weaves blues, rock and Americana into a compelling musical tapestry. Her Friday 3pm RSP show, Play Me Some Blues, covers Florida and classic blues artists. Atkinson says her influences are many, “Etta James, Aretha Franklin, Howlin’ Wolf, Elvis, Muddy Waters, Otis Redding, Mahalia Jackson and Ray Charles,” she offers. “But it’s my mom who inspired me through her love for music. She gave me my first guitar at 14 and had me singing a solo in church at age 5.”
You can listen to RadioStPete's streams online or on their free mobile apps. They also have a dedicated FM station at 96.7FM.
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Oustanding Open Water Views
GOING DEEPER
Tiffini Theisen sheds light on the “mammogram blind spot” and what dense breast tissue might be hiding.
You’ve done everything right. You get your routine breast screenings, keep up with your doctor visits and try not to worry. But for half of all women, mammograms might not tell the full story.
That’s because dense breast tissue can make early-stage cancers harder to spot on traditional imaging. Dense tissue and tumors appear similar on a mammogram and make it difficult to tell one from the other.
“Dense breast tissue appears white on a mammogram, so it makes it harder to see small or early-stage tumors which also show up white,” offers Dr. Nina Johnson, a board-certified radiation oncologist with the Orlando Health Cancer Institute in St. Pete. “It’s like trying to see a plane when it’s really cloudy.”
Fatty breast tissue shows up darker in imaging, like a clear sky, so it’s more visible on mammograms. Clinicians use an A-D density grading system for breast tissue, with D being the densest.
It’s important to know your density because “there is an increased risk of breast cancer for women who have dense breasts and routine mammograms may not be able to see small tumors,” Johnson explains.
Additional imaging methods can offer a clearer picture. One of the most common is a breast ultrasound. Studies show that this painless procedure can detect small, aggressive cancers early, before they spread to the lymph nodes.
“It’s the best way to differentiate between a cyst or a solid mass,” Johnson advises.
Ultrasound uses sound waves to create images, is noninvasive and does not expose patients to radiation. On an ultrasound, cysts usually appear as fluid-filled sacs with smooth, well-defined edges, while masses—benign or cancerous—tend to appear solid or partially solid with irregular borders. Cysts are almost always harmless and need treatment only if large or painful. Solid masses, though often benign, may require further evaluation, such as a biopsy, to rule out cancer.
Another option is a breast MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). This is typically used for women with unusually dense breasts, especially if they are at higher risk for breast cancer or when more detail is needed.
“You can find small cancers with a breast MRI and it is more sensitive than mammogram or ultrasound in detecting breast cancer, especially in women with dense breasts,” Johnson states, but she cautions that MRIs have a higher rate of false positives, which could lead to unnecessary biopsies.
A breast MRI involves being placed into a tunnel-shaped machine that uses magnets and radio waves to produce detailed images of breast tissue. The exam takes 30 to 60 minutes and involves IV contrast dye to help highlight abnormal tissue. There is no radiation involved.
These tools aren’t meant to replace regularly scheduled mammograms but to complement them, especially for women whose breast density may obscure small cancers. No method is perfect, but for women with dense breasts, an ultrasound and an MRI can make a meaningful difference by revealing cancers that mammograms might miss.
LIVING by DESIGN
Sean Goodrich offers some strategies to help you start tackling your bucket list through thoughtful financial planning.
What’s on your bucket list? Maybe it’s dream vacations, unforgettable experiences or meaningful goals. Turning your bucket list into reality takes more than inspiration—it takes intentional planning. Your dreams and goals exist to make your life richer, so they deserve a place in your financial plan.
While financial advisors focus on helping clients preserve and grow assets, you may find it surprising to know that we also encourage “bucket list living”—using some of your hard-earned money to enjoy meaningful moments now and in the near future.
Your goals reflect your deepest values—adventure, family, creativity or creating a legacy. Whether it’s taking the trip of a lifetime, indulging in a staycation at a nearby luxury resort, starting a nonprofit organization or learning a new hobby, your bucket list is a reflection of what you care about most.
When you’re clear on why your goals matter, you’re more likely to prioritize them and stick to a plan. The first step is to identify the dreams you hope to achieve and recognize that you deserve to enjoy those experiences sooner rather than later.
Next, make your goals tangible. Write them down. Break them into categories like travel, hobbies and family experiences. Then attach a rough dollar amount to each one. Maybe you’re dreaming of a $7,500 trip to Italy, a $15,000 gift to a
cause you care about or a $500 art class at the local arts center.
This is where your financial plan comes in. It should reflect the life you want to live—not just in retirement, but now. If you’ve worked and saved for decades, one of the most important questions to ask is, What do you want your savings to do?
Whatever your vision, map out the right strategy to help you get there. Here are a few tips to get you started. Begin by setting realistic timelines for achieving your goals. Then, create dedicated savings buckets for short- and long-term aspirations. Determine a realistic budget and save a set amount each month for your bucket list items. For longer-term goals, use tax-efficient tools like 529 plans, Roth IRAs or donor-advised funds to maximize what you keep so you have more to spend on your adventures. You can also plan smaller, less expensive activities to enjoy while you're saving for bigger goals.
Your dreams will likely change over time. Some goals may fall off the list; others may move to the top. A solid financial plan can help you prioritize goals, avoid unnecessary debt and give you the freedom to stop dreaming and start doing.
Sean Goodrich is a CFP® with Goodrich Wealth Planning. He can be reached at sean.goodrich@raymondjames.com.
Best of 2025 Bash
THE FLORIDIAN SOCIAL / JULY 24
Our 2025 Best of Readers’ Poll and Awards party was a night to celebrate community and salute our winners. Our publisher and presenting sponsor Phil Yost, of Compass Land & Title, were joined onstage by other generous sponsors, including Dr. Roberto Macedo of the Advanced Center for Cosmetic, Power Design, “Dr. Rosh” of the Oculofacial Surgery and Cosmetic Laser Institute, DōMA Home Furnishings, Il Ritorno, La V, Blu Halo, Paciugo Gelato & Caffe and A Good Human. Guests enjoyed handcrafted cocktails, culinary delights and memorable performances from Angie Rey, Bela Souza and DJ Ali V. Photos by Ed Barry, Emily Will and Misha Pokusa.
Woodson Warriors Ceremony
ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGE
ALLSTATE CENTER / MAY 17
Eighteen exceptional students were recognized for excellence in academics, the arts, athletics, leadership and community service at the 2025 Woodson Warrior Scholarship ceremony presented by The Woodson African American Museum of Florida. To date, the fund has awarded more than $1.3 million, enabling recipients of these prestigious scholarships to attend top colleges and universities nationwide.
Anniversary Party
z•aa dress up studio / AUGUST 9
Owner Liza Fleming and her team celebrated the boutique’s seventh anniversary in downtown St. Pete with a stylish evening for clients and friends. Photography by Marcus Oania.
