PICTURE PERFECT
FROM THE EDITOR
by Kathy Saunders
▲ 14 PROFILE
St. Petersburg surgeon Dr. Koco Eaton has delighted his friends and family members with daily sunrise photos for the past 15 years.
SOAK UP THE SUN inside
While the news of the day can often be disheartening, Florida’s sunrises can remind us of the beauty of life and living in Tampa Bay.
That’s the inspiration behind Dr. Koco Eaton’s morning snapshots emailed to friends and associates for the past 15 years. I have been lucky enough to be on that email list, and Bay creative director Nikki Life cleverly used a montage of hundreds of the photos to design our cover this month.
As we enjoy the local views offered by summer, Bay contributor Karen Post shares about her French cycling adventure through the ancient villages in Burgundy wine country, with a few luxury hotel stays in between.
On that theme, arts writer Maggie Duffy highlights an exhibit from American artists who were inspired by the French impressionists of the 19th century.
We hope our readers will enjoy the summer landscapes both here and abroad and sample the two new recipes featured in this issue.
8 HOMES
Walls are more than structural boundaries; they’re the new canvases for home design.
12 BOOKS SCENE
The title of Dave Barry’s new book gives more than a clue about its prose: “Class Clown.”
18 ARTS SCENE
French impressionism, once considered an avant-garde art form, is still very relevant today.
22 WELLNESS
Move over treadmills, today’s luxury homebuyers want private plunge pools, personal saunas and pickleball courts at their homes.
▲
26 TRAVEL
Ride along on an exhilarating bicycle adventure through France with Bay contributor Karen Post.
▲
32 RECIPES
It’s a hot summer, so why not heat up the grill and try a new recipe for prosciutto-wrapped beef patties?
34 SOCIAL SCENE
A Carnivore’s Paradise
A MAGAZINE OF THE TAMPA BAY TIMES
EDITOR KATHY SAUNDERS | ksaunders@tampabay.com
CREATIVE DIRECTOR NIKKI LIFE | nlife@tampabay.com
Photographer BRIAN JAMES | brian@brianjamesgallery.com
Copy Editor Erin Feitsma Imaging & Production Brian Baracani
TO ADVERTISE IN BAY MAGAZINE, call 800-333-7505.
For a print or digital subscription to the Tampa Bay Times, call 800-888-7012 or go to subscribe.tampabay.com.
To view Bay magazine online, visit tampabay.com/bay. Bay is published monthly by Times Publishing Co. and delivered to Tampa Bay Times subscribers in select neighborhoods in Pinellas, Hillsborough and Pasco counties. Copyright 2025. Vol. 18, No. 6
To purchase a copy of Bay magazine, visit bit.ly/baymagazine or scan this code.
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Luxury
Accent wallpaper by York draws the water indoors in this Marina Pointe bedroom.
Photo by Tony Sica Photography.
HOMES
wall wow
BY KAREN POST
From the timeless sophistication of wallpaper to the grandeur of hand-painted murals to the innovative allure of acoustical wall panels and statementmaking ceiling designs, wall treatments have the power to define a space. Today’s discerning homeowners and designers are embracing walls as opportunities for artistry, texture and an unparalleled expression of personality.
This bathroom gets a pop of paper for a big impact. Photo by Brian James.
The wall treatment in this workout room adds luxury with wood-style vinyl planks and pressed strips of botanical moss. Photo by Tony Sica Photography.
Acoustical wall panels
Beyond aesthetics, modern luxury demands functionality. Acoustical wall panels are becoming a staple in high-end residences, home theaters and executive offices, merging sound control with stunning design. These panels have been reimagined for homes in sumptuous fabrics, intricate patterns and custom finishes that seamlessly integrate into any sophisticated space. High-performance materials, such as velvet, felt and wood veneer, add a tactile richness while improving acoustics and creating an atmosphere of serene comfort. Custom panels in jewel-toned hues or with metallic inlays can elevate an entertainment room, creating a multisensory experience that is as beautiful as it is practical. In the same way, feature walls with slat wood designs add texture, warmth and dimension.
Wallpaper resurgence
Wallpaper has transcended its past reputation as a conventional wall covering to become an essential design element in luxury interiors. Modern wallpaper designs feature exquisite materials, such as silk, linen and even hand-painted panels adorned with metallic accents. Whether it’s a chinoiserie motif in a grand dining room or a contemporary abstract pattern in a modern penthouse, wallpaper can bring texture, depth and personality to your walls. For those seeking an ultra-luxurious aesthetic, custom wall coverings in materials like embossed leather, suede or even mother-of-pearl can turn walls into striking statements. The right wallpaper doesn’t just complement a room; it defines it.
Hand-painted walls and murals
For those who love the look of a breathtaking wall but have a pet peeve for wallpaper seams, or those who view their walls as an extension of their art
Acoustical panels by Panel Décor Hub and Debra Ackerbloom Interiors. Photo by Mike Butler.
Custom wall on fireplace by Splat Paint & Design. Photo courtesy of Home Frosting.
collection, hand-painted custom walls and murals offer the ultimate expression of sophistication. Both created by a master artisan, they transform an ordinary space into a captivating visual journey. Whether depicting an ethereal landscape, a dramatic fresco or a modern abstract composition, these custom wall treatments can make a space feel both intimate and expansive.
Ceiling treatments
No discussion of wall treatments is complete without addressing the often-overlooked ceiling — the “fifth wall.” In luxury interiors, ceilings are no longer an afterthought but a focal point that enhances the entire room. From coffered and tray ceilings to hand-gilded frescoes and intricate moldings, the ceiling can be as expressive as the walls below. A lacquered ceiling in a deep hue adds drama and depth, while a handpainted celestial scene evokes Old-World grandeur. Modern interiors are embracing
statement ceilings featuring sculptural elements, integrated lighting and innovative materials like perforated metal or wood slats. Whether adorned with Venetian plaster or gold-leaf embellishments, a well-designed ceiling elevates the overall ambiance of a space.
Details that make the difference
Now that you have beautified your walls and ceilings with thoughtful designs and materials, don’t fail to transform your faceplates so the finished look is professional and complete. I recently discovered Hide-A-Trim, a Florida company that sells easy-to-install kits to create a flush mount functionality for any faceplate. Essentially, the faceplates are painted to match the surface.
Local resources
• Hide-A-Trim, 954-613-0600, hideatrim.com
• Panel Décor Hub, 813-853-0005,
paneldecorhub.com
• Splat Paint & Design, 727-655-8200, splatpaint.com
• Verly Wallpaper, 407-785-7054, Instagram: @vw_wallpaper
• Williams Wallpapering, 813-966-0740, williamswallpaperingtampa.weebly.com
Karen Post of Home Frosting is a Tampabased interior designer, author and Bay contributor. Contact her on Instagram @ therealhomefrosting or at karen@ homefrosting.com.
Ceiling design by Home Frosting. Photo by Brian James.
Faceplates can be painted to match the surfaces where they are mounted. Photo courtesy of Hide-A-Trim.
BOOKS SCENE by
Colette Bancroft
FUNNY BUSINESS
Dave Barry’s new book is called “Class Clown” and is subtitled “The Memoirs of a Professional Wiseass.” Its sub-subtitle (for Barry, too much is never quite enough) is “How I Went 77 Years Without Growing Up.”
It’s a lot, but it’s truth in advertising. If you’ve ever seen Barry, you know he looks youthful enough to play in a Beatles cover band, and his humor continues to be gleefully adolescent. What’s more, he’s been able to spin that comedy into a decades-long career as a newspaper columnist complete with national syndication and a Pulitzer Prize, as well as more than 50 books.
Yet he’s never written much about himself. “Class Clown” is the first book he’s officially declared a memoir, and his legion of fans will be grateful.
Its first chapter recounts his childhood, which, counter to the truism that comics are unhappy people, he remembers as pretty idyllic. He credits his mother’s “sharp, dark sense of humor” for his own style and recalls both parents as loving. But he writes about some tough times, too — his father became an alcoholic, then recovered, but died a few years later; his mother took her own life not long after.
Most of the rest of the book focuses more on his professional life than his personal one. After a couple of post-college detours (he taught business writing for seven years), Barry wandered into journalism and fell in love, as one does.
He moved from small-town papers in Pennsylvania to writing columns for The Philadelphia Inquirer, and then was offered a job at the Miami Herald in its glory
days, which were simultaneous with the 1980s cocaine cowboy era in Miami. Barry took the job, even though he found Miami terrifying and didn’t move there until two years later, writing from Pennsylvania.
Miami might have looked like hell, but the job, writing a weekly column for the Herald’s storied Tropic magazine, was his idea of heaven. He describes and excerpts a feast of his columns, including an uproarious interview in which he accesses the “zany mode” of buttoned-up Bob Graham, Florida’s late former governor and senator.
Barry gives lots of credit to his readers, who are a fount of ideas. Supreme Court Justice John Paul Stevens was a “faithful fan” who wrote Barry a letter on court stationery to suggest he write a column on an anti-flatulence product called Bean-O, based on Barry’s longtime interest in exploding cows.
Another reader urged him to investigate whether Rollerblade Barbie’s skates could set fire to a pair of underwear — an investigation that landed him on David Letterman’s show.
The highlight of Barry’s college career, he tells us, was playing in a rock band called Federal Duck, and one of the highlights of his professional career has been playing in the Rock Bottom Remainders, a rock band whose lineup has included Stephen King, Barbara Kingsolver, Amy Tan, Ridley Pearson and a host of other authors, not to mention guest appearances by Bruce Springsteen, Warren Zevon and Lesley Gore. The band’s T-shirts, Barry writes, say, “This Band Plays Music as Well as Metallica Writes Novels.”
Barry nods to readers again at the end of the memoir: “Thanks for reading it. You now know where I got my ideas (Costco).”
Pro tip: This is one book for which you definitely want to read the endnotes.
BOOK PICKS: LIFE IS FUNNY
Here are a few more memoirs that serve up the laughs
Dave Barry. Photo courtesy of Michelle Kaufman.
“Little Failure” by Gary Shteyngart
“I Feel Bad About My Neck: And Other Thoughts on Being a Woman” by Nora Ephron
“Bossypants” by Tina Fey
“Wow, No Thank You” by Samantha Irby
Life Changing Vision®
Brandon Rodr iguez, MD
Pit Gills , MD
Jeffrey Wipfli, MD
Rober t Lee, MD
WALKING ON SUNSHINE
We asked Dr. Koco Eaton to share his favorite sunrise photo, and he sent this picture along with a note saying, “This photo holds a special significance for me. I sent it out on a Saturday and titled it ‘Stairway to Heaven.’ On that day, it was the anniversary of the passing of a friend’s daughter. He was feeling particularly down that day, but when he received the photo, he felt as if it was a divine message reaching out to him at that precise moment. I was delighted to have played a part in conveying that message to him.”
On the cover, we share a mosaic of 380 of the daily sunrise photos from St. Petersburg surgeon Dr. Koco Eaton. He has been sending them daily to friends and family members for the past 15 years.
BY KATHY SAUNDERS
St. Petersburg’s Dr. Koco Eaton is an acclaimed orthopedic surgeon, physician to the Tampa Bay Rays baseball team, a former college basketball player, an outdoorsman, a swimmer, a husband and father, a wedding officiant and a medical missionary with Faith in Practice. He can also add photographer to the list of what makes him a true Renaissance man.
Each morning for the past 15 years, at least 100 lucky friends and family members have received an email from Eaton featuring a photo of the sunrise. “It started off as a joke, sending spiteful photographs to my relatives up north,” said Eaton, 64. “I had a beautiful sunrise, and they were shoveling snow.”
But, as he started adding friends to the email list, he said he got a lot of positive feedback. “I love taking photographs, and trying to take the perfect photograph is always a challenge. It is nice to have a built-in audience that I can get immediate feedback (from),” he said.
Photos courtesy of Dr. Koco Eaton.
Cover photo mosaic created using AndreaMosaic.
“When I have an outstanding picture, I get email replies that day stating the picture was a keeper. I have friends who use my photographs as screen savers on their computers and iPhones.”
On Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, Eaton takes the pictures from downtown St. Petersburg when he arrives at the North Shore Aquatic Complex for swim practice. On Tuesdays and Thursdays, he snaps the sunrises from the dock of his Venetian Isles home. And, on Saturdays and Sundays, he usually catches the sunrise from his kayak on Old Tampa Bay. If he’s traveling, like he did in May as a medical missionary in Guatemala, he sends photos of the sunrises where he served. On vacation, he does the same.
“It’s nice to send out a picture and expect nothing in return,” he said. “I simply want to brighten someone’s day or bring a warm smile to their face first thing in the morning.”
Dr. Koco Eaton in the Dominican Republic in 2023 before a two-game spring training series between the Tampa Bay Rays and the Boston Red Sox as part of the MLB World Tour.
Dr. Koco Eaton after performing one of 14 knee reconstructions on a medical mission trip in Guatemala in May. It was his 17th mission trip to the Central American country.
Karen Eaton enjoys a beach walk with her husband, Dr. Koco Eaton.
Dr. Koco Eaton, physician to the Tampa Bay Rays, examines a college baseball player in his office at Eaton Orthopaedics in St. Petersburg.
Legacy in Motion: Dr. Jeffrey Grove is redefining what it means to lead in Family Medicine
Dr Grove’s legacy isn’t just personal it’s a blueprint for what’s possible in family medicine, and an open invitation to physicians who want to lead, serve and elevate the profession.
As a family medicine physician, a national advocate for osteopathic care, a mentor to the next generation and the founder of Florida-based Paxton Medical Management, Dr Grove represents a rare blend of clinical leadership, strategic vision and personal conviction Over more than 30 years in practice, he’s proven that physicians in family medicine don’t just serve their communities they shape them.
Dr Grove earned his Doctor of Osteopathy from Nova Southeastern University of the Health Sciences and completed his residency at Sun Coast Hospital in Largo, Florida. From those early days, he’s remained committed to raising the standard of primary care not just for his patients, but for the entire profession
He’s held leadership roles at both the state and national levels, including president of the Florida Society of the American College of Osteopathic Family Physicians and, later, president of the American Osteopathic Foundation, where he continues to serve on the board. His efforts have shaped continuing education, national policy and advocacy priorities that directly impact providers and patients alike.
But Dr Grove’s vision goes beyond policy he’s built an entire health care infrastructure designed to put that vision into practice. Through Paxton Medical Management, Dr Grove created a physician-led network that delivers valuebased, senior-focused care while restoring what many providers feel is missing in
modern medicine: time, connection and purpose. What began as a single office in Largo is now a growing footprint of practices across Florida, each dedicated to proactive, relationship-driven care for Medicare-aged adults.
As a third-generation osteopathic physician, Dr Grove understands the deep roots and personal responsibility that come with practicing family medicine
“It’s always been personal,” he said. “But when you pair that personal commitment with a care model that actually supports the doctor-patient relationship, it becomes something greater. It becomes transformative not just for the patient, but for the physician too.”
That value-based, relationship-driven model has become a magnet for missiondriven physicians who want more than a job they want a calling. Under
Dr Grove’s leadership, Paxton offers doctors the infrastructure to thrive while also giving them a platform to lead, mentor and grow For those seeking more than the standard treadmill of fee-for-service care, Paxton has become the answer.
For physicians who believe medicine can still be meaningful, Paxton Medical Management represents more than just a group. It’s a movement. A place where clinical excellence, compassionate care and leadership potential come together A place where your career can have reach, resonance and real impact
If you’re a physician driven to make a difference, Dr Grove’s journey proves you don’t have to wait to build a legacy And if you’re a patient, his model of care shows that health care can still be deeply personal, profoundly respectful and genuinely life-changing
Jeffrey S. Grove, D.O., FACOFP, dist.
ARTS SCENE by Maggie Duffy
FIRST IMPRESSIONS
There’s so much to see in Tampa Bay’s art world this month, from beloved movements of the past to futuristic technology and a showcase of local talent. Here are a few exhibitions I’m excited about.
On view at the Tampa Museum of Art
Most art aficionados are very familiar with impressionism and the French artists who broke with tradition to create the (at the time) avant-garde painting style that rocked the 19th-century art world. But the movement also caught on with American artists, particularly with those who were studying art abroad. They’re the subject of “American Gaze: Impressionism, Paintings from Tampa Bay Collections” at the Tampa Museum of Art.
Drawn from local private collections, the exhibition showcases the way American artists, including Mary Cassatt, Childe Hassam, William Merritt Chase and Theodore Robinson, started painting scenes from everyday life. It caught on so much that artist colonies formed along the Eastern Seaboard. More than 60 paintings are showcased, organized in themed sections that not only make viewing a delight, but also inform us of the artists’ mindsets, which mirrored America’s societal shifts.
For example, a panel in the section Modernity of the City explains how artist depictions of cities, especially New York, helped portray America’s wealth and power as a growing nation. Perhaps the
most famous of the American impressionists, and one of the movement’s few pioneering women artists, was Cassatt, known for her mother-and-child depictions. Her lovely “Reine Lefebvre and Margot Before a Window” radiates tenderness from a gallery wall. It’s on view through Feb. 1, 2026. tampamuseum.org.
Also on exhibit at the Tampa Museum of Art
More female trailblazers are celebrated at the Tampa Museum of Art with a meditative, eight-channel projection, “Jennifer Steinkamp: Madame Curie.”
Using a computer as her art-making tool, Steinkamp creates site-specific monumental installations that explore themes of power and gender.
Her research process steered her to the San Onofre Nuclear Generating Station, a decommissioned power plant in California. That led her to study Marie Curie, whose research on radiation earned her two Nobel Prizes.
While reading Curie’s biography, Steinkamp discovered her love for flowers and gardening. She made animations of more than 40 flowers mentioned in the
“Reine Lefebvre and Margot Before a Window” by Mary Cassatt, 1902. Oil on canvas. Private collection. Photo courtesy of the Tampa Museum of Art.
book, including apple blossoms, daisies and wisteria. The layered animations swirl and float in patterns across screens on all four of the intimate Bronson Thayer Gallery’s walls. Don’t miss this zen experience; it closes on Aug. 10. tampamuseum.org.
Enjoy an artist showcase at The Gallery at Creative Pinellas
Another not-to-be-missed exhibition is “The Shape of Us” at The Gallery at Creative Pinellas. (Full transparency, I am the new managing editor for Creative Pinellas’ digital magazine.) Curated by Freddie Hughes, “The Shape of Us” is a showcase of six Pinellas County artists: Karel García, Kirk Palmer, Alice Pickett Lewis, Tavia Reyes, Luke Vest and Zulu Painter.
Every artist has their own gallery for display, which allows their works to shine. While each body of artwork couldn’t be
more different, all deal with a personal sense of place, identity and experience.
With her mixed-media textile work, Pickett Lewis reflects on the live oak trees that were felled by last year’s hurricanes.
Similarly, Palmer creates quiet, abstract landscapes inspired by the debris piles of personal belongings ruined by the storms. García explores the human condition in a personal manner. Reyes’ “visual language
combines symbols, scribbles and raw emotion, drawing from the wild geometries of nature, the electric pulse of Florida skies and the tangled webs of thought that refuse to be contained.” Vest gets cosmic with self-exploration, and Painter’s experiments with pop art rendered in moss are delightful. It’s free to attend and on view through Aug. 10. creativepinellas.org.
Installation view of “Jennifer Steinkamp: Madame Curie” in the Bronson Thayer Gallery at the Tampa Museum of Art. Photo by Paige Boscia.
“Wildflower Meadow” by Alice Pickett Lewis. Photo courtesy of Alice Pickett Lewis.
“Cushions” by Kirk Palmer. Photo courtesy of Kirk Palmer.
HOME GYM
WHY LEAVE HOME TO ENJOY LUXURY?
Many homeowners are opting to recreate the resort experience at home, adding wellness and fitness amenities like spas and yoga rooms to their abodes.
Luxury homes today often boast the same amenities found in luxury resorts, such as this sauna with teak benches and a waterfront view.
Photo courtesy of Sica Media Group.
BY SUSAN TAYLOR MARTIN
hen Kori Smythe’s family downsized from a 4,500-square-foot house to a smaller condominium, she figured the recreational opportunities for her two sons would be limited. Certainly no practicing hook shots in the backyard. Wrong. Today they can walk out the door of their fourth-floor condo and onto a basketball court. There’s also a pickleball court and a state-of-the-art gym. “They fell in love with this place,’’ said Smythe of their new home in Altura Bayshore, a condo tower just off Tampa’s Bayshore Boulevard.
Altura’s design reflects an increasing demand for wellness and fitness amenities in both upscale condos and single-family homes. Play courts, spas, saunas, cold dip systems, yoga rooms and the like help create a resort-like experience at home. “People have the ability to travel to luxury resorts that focus on rehabbing your body in some fashion, whether it’s yoga or meditation or dips,’’
Introduced in 1965, pickleball is now America’s fastestgrowing sport. Kori Smythe’s family can step out onto these pickleball courts near their unit in Tampa’s Altura condo tower. Photo courtesy of Smith & Associates Real Estate.
To escape the stresses of everyday life, buyers of upscale new homes can have meditation and yoga rooms included for relatively little cost. Photo courtesy of Smith & Associates Real Estate.
said Bob Glaser, president and CEO of Smith & Associates Real Estate. “They want to see the same kind of atmosphere when they come home. And now the ability of vendors that support that kind of work is very easy and not terribly expensive.”
A cold dip system — which at 42 degrees provides a refreshing break from Florida’s heat — can be had for around $10,000. Golf simulators — which are starting to replace home theaters as a sought-after amenity — run around $15,000, whereas a theater can cost multiple times that.
For homeowners on the water, float-on polyurethane docks are also popular.
“You float on with your kayak, press a button and it brings you back up to dock level,’’ said Glaser, whose firm has a nearly 20% share of Tampa Bay’s market for homes costing $3 million and up.
Architect Stephen Smith, who designs luxury homes throughout the bay area, said he’s getting requests for meditation
and prayer rooms, lap pools, golf simulators and play courts that can accommodate either basketball or pickleball.
“It’s a whole ‘nother world of things to think about in terms of what’s really resonating with our clients,’’ he said. “There’s a general design in architecture that plays into the whole wellness environment and how the house interacts with its site and how it interacts with nature.’’
Many homeowners like to spend time outside, he said, resulting in an expansion of covered outdoor space in which they can dine, cook and lounge just as they would in an indoor great room. Increasingly, though, that outdoor space harks back to ancient times in taking the form of a courtyard that offers both fresh air and privacy.
“Outdoor space is where you get these additional wellness components like wall fountains or other things that have sounds of water that are calming and
centering,” Smith said. “Formal spaces are getting smaller or disappearing altogether, so casual living is something that folks are into rather than having things like dedicated dining rooms.”
Say “luxury home’’ and it conjures images of a grandiose place on the water with a dock and boat lift. But Realtor Jennifer Fuddy had a client whose non-waterfront Tampa house built in 2022 still offers plenty of outdoor amenities.
There’s a pool with a slide and so-called “beach entry” — swimmers can walk in on a gradual slope instead of going down stairs. There’s also a putting green with several holes.
And the client’s son, “who would have been around 5 at the time, said, ‘Can we get a pickleball court?’” Fuddy recalled. Dad agreed.
Despite the loud popping sounds of the game, no one living nearby has complained. In fact, she said, “The neighbors all come down to play.”
Although many golf courses have closed around the country, demand is increasing for at-home golf simulators and putting greens, like this one shown at a Tampa home.
Photo courtesy of South Meadow Productions/Kevin Westlund.
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TRAVEL
Front row: Karen Post, Carl Lindell, Ray and Trish Kelly, Dana Young, Larry Richey and Donna Jordan. Back row: Dr. Lyda Lindell, Diane Corba, Ross Lindell and Nina Van Brunt Lindell, Eric Vogt, Ken Corba, Matt Young, Martha Richey and Sid Jordan. Photo courtesy of Ray Kelly.
Biking in Burgundy
Looking for your next adventure? A biking expedition in the Burgundy region of France offers historic sites, awe-inspiring accommodations and, of course, wine.
BY KAREN POST
For years, our friends Carl and Dr. Lyda Lindell had been inviting my husband, Eric, and me to join them on a private biking adventure in Europe. Most recently, the topic came up over dinner at Ponte Modern American in Tampa.
A week of château-hopping, gourmet meals and cycling through lush wine country, all arranged by Backroads, an active travel company based in Berkeley, California, was Lyda’s pitch. While the thought of sharing narrow country roads with cars and e-bikes made my heart race, Eric was all in. The Lindells shared their past adventures of relaxed, luxury lodgings, meals at Michelin-starred restaurants and bike routes tailored to all fitness levels by the experts at Backroads. Within days, we committed, investing in two Pedego e-bikes —from E-Bikes of Tampa — plus racks, helmets and safety gear for about $6,500 total. After 100 miles of practice rides over the next few weeks, I was growing more confident on wheels.
Château de Vault de Lugny. Photo by Eric Vogt.
Barrels at the Domaine Debray winery in Burgundy.
Photo by Eric Vogt.
Biking through the Burgundy region of France. Photo courtesy of Backroads.
Arrival in Dijon
We flew from Tampa to Paris through Washington, D.C., and on to Dijon, where we checked into the Grand Hôtel La Cloche, a five-star beauty with 500 years of history.
Day 1: Château de Vault de Lugny
Our group of 18 adventurers assembled at dawn: executives and retirees from Tampa, a couple from Greenwich and the Lindells’ son, Russ, and his expectant wife, Nina, who also biked. After a safety briefing on e-bike handling and local customs, we boarded a bus for Sainte-Vertu, where we were fitted on our Backroads bikes and savored a farm-fresh country lunch. We covered about 22 miles to our first château-hotel, the 17th-century Vault de Lugny. Set on 100 acres of parkland, it felt like stepping into a fairy tale. Over cocktails in the walled garden, we bonded with our fellow riders before a sumptuous Michelin-starred
dinner in a surprisingly sleek, modern dining room.
Day 2: A restorative interlude
While most of the group cycled to nearby villages, I stayed behind to explore the château’s salons and impressive ornate details and let my body recover. Some-
times the luxury of choice is the greatest indulgence.
Day 3: Canal de Bourgogne and Abbaye de la Bussière
Refreshed, I joined everyone for a van transfer to Flavigny-sur-Ozerain, a medieval village famed as the setting of
Abbaye de la Bussière, a monastery turned luxury hotel in the Burgundy region of France. Photo by Karen Post.
Le Valucien, a Michelin-starred restaurant at the Château de Vault de Lugny in Burgundy. Photo by Matthieu Cellard.
the film “Chocolat.” After browsing candy-filled boutiques, we resumed cycling along the Canal de Bourgogne, which is more than 200 years old. Another rustic farm lunch fueled our afternoon ride through wildflower meadows and past Commarin Castle. That evening we arrived at Abbaye de la Bussière, a monastery turned luxury hotel overlooking the River Ouche. The rooms were elegant and serene, the gardens heavenly and dinner an artful parade of Burgundian specialties.
Day 4: Côte d’Or grand tour
We rolled out into the heart of Burgundy’s famed terroir — Gevrey-Chambertin, Chambolle-Musigny and beyond. At Clos de Vougeot, we toured the walled vineyard and medieval château, marveling at 12th-century grape presses once used by Cîteaux monks. Lunch in Nuits-Saint-Georges at a cozy bistro was followed by a scenic ride through the Côte de Nuits into the Côte de Beaune, with wooded hills on one side and endless vines on the other. In Beaune, we descended into 3 miles of limestone tunnels at Caves Patriarche Père et Fils for
a private tasting among millions of bottles.
Day 5: A modern sanctuary and the Route des Grands Crus
Our final hotel — Levernois — quickly became our favorite. The Relais & Châteaux property was tucked into rolling vineyards yet brimmed with sleek, contemporary design. Its airy lobby and glass-walled lounges stood in delightful contrast to the region’s ancient châteaux.
After a morning ride along the legendary Route des Grands Crus — pedaling past golden fields of chardonnay and pinot noir — I returned to Levernois’ spa. The warm plunge pool, gently steamy sauna and peaceful treatment rooms were exactly what my sore muscles and soul needed. Spending the afternoon drifting between baths and a restorative massage felt like the perfect reward for my longest ride of the week.
In the early evening we met for a private wine tasting at Domaine Debray, one of the youngest domains in Burgundy. There, we explored every stage of the winemaking process — from harvesting
the grapes to bottling the wine. The estate produces just 60,000 bottles annually, and its wines range in price from $50 to over $500.
Day 6: The final lap
The trip officially ended on the sixth day, but we added a weekend jaunt in Nice and Monte Carlo, Monaco.
By the end of the week, I’d spent three days in the saddle, covering roughly 100 miles. Not bad for an “official” senior citizen traveler (admittedly, I hate that title). Eric, six years younger, logged nearly 250 miles and unanimously earned the yellow jersey, the symbol of the Tour de France.
For me, each day balanced effortless luxury — five-star hotels, gourmet cuisine and expert service and support — with the pulse-quickening thrill of discovery. By far, zooming down a steep hill at over 40 mph was a high. It was, quite simply, the perfect fusion of adventure and indulgence. If you’re craving a way to immerse yourself in Burgundy’s beauty — on two wheels or otherwise — this trip delivers both heart-racing exploration and undeniable comfort.
Here are some insights for next time: pack one less bag and no neon-colored jackets, unless you love having bugs on you; have small change in euros ready for the train restrooms; and don’t try to plug in an old favorite curling iron even with the European adapters, as you may burn down the castle.
The cost for this wonderful trip for two, with business class airfare, was just under $19,000. The memories are priceless!
Karen Post of Home Frosting is a Tampabased interior designer, author and Bay contributor. Contact her on Instagram @ therealhomefrosting or at karen@ homefrosting.com.
A scenic biking route through Burgundy. Photo by Eric Vogt.
The Pointe on Boca Ciega at Marina Bay
Waterfront pent house condom in iums
With only three units per building – each commanding an entire floor – The Pointe Condominiums ensure the ultimate luxury – privacy The penthouse-style, 4 bedroom, 4.5 bathroom residence offers over 3,800 sq. ft. of living space, and nearly 1,000 sq ft of wrap-around terrace overlooking breathtaking panoramic views of Boca Ciega Bay and the Skyway Bridge Featuring dual master baths, a whole-building gas generator, and a private, oversized 2-car garage for each unit.
Discover Marina Bay in St. Petersburg, a hidden gem tucked away on Boca Ciega Bay, where 60 acres of lush tropical landscaping, lakes with dramatic water features and abundant wildlife blend to form this vibrant community Just six minutes to downtown St Petersburg and St. Pete Beach, the new Villas, Estate Homes and Pointe Condominiums on Boca Ciega redefine both luxury and resilience by building to FORTIFIEDTM - Gold standards. Visit Marina Bay, next to Eckerd College, to tour our new models.
Bloom Bowl Make It Mediterranean RECIPES
Chef Rita El Habr learned to cook by working alongside the food preparers in her family, including an aunt who worked as a chef for the royal family of Jordan. Born and raised in the Mediterranean, chef Habr, 42, has made the meals of her heritage into a passion and profession. Using the foods that celebrate the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean, she works as a private chef and host of culinary events in Texas. I met up with her recently at the Lake Austin Spa Resort, where she prepared her Mediterranean bloom bowl at one of the resort’s private culinary events. “I just love everything Mediterranean,” she said. “The abundance of flavor options accommodates everything in cooking.” Her food focus, she allowed, is wellness, saying, “Food is medicine and eating well is the foundation of a healthy lifestyle and longevity.” She also shared her recipe for prosciuttowrapped patties. — Kathy Saunders
For the chicken:
1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, sliced evenly
Drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon of za’atar
½ teaspoon ground cumin
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
For the bowl:
1 bag of arugula
1 head radicchio, chopped
1 ripe avocado, pitted and thinly sliced
2 cups strawberries, thinly sliced and half pureed for dressing
1 cup blackberries
1 cup blueberries
1 medium pomelo or grapefruit, peeled
2 cups of Persian cucumbers, thinly sliced
¼ cup olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar glaze
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (smooth, not grainy or spicy)
2 teaspoons honey or maple syrup
Sea salt and black pepper, to taste
1 cup roasted and salted pistachios
1 cup roasted and salted sunflower seeds
To prepare the chicken:
Marinate the chicken with the listed ingredients, then sauté strips of chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side. Set the chicken aside.
To prepare the bowl:
• In a serving bowl, create a bed of arugula and radicchio. Top with all fruits and veggies.
• In a separate bowl, whisk the olive oil, vinegar glaze, lemon juice, mustard, honey or maple syrup, pureed strawberries and all the seasonings.
• Pour over your salad bowl; sprinkle roasted and salted pistachios and sunflower seeds and top with sliced chicken.
Note: Chicken can be substituted with shrimp, salmon, lamb or falafel. Arugula can be substituted with any type of salad greens.
Photo by Kathy Saunders.
Chef Rita El Habr.
ProsciuttoWrapped Patties
1 pound ground beef (I like using half lamb and half beef)
½ cup breadcrumbs
1 egg
3 tablespoons milk
½ cup Pecorino Romano cheese, grated
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
¾ teaspoon sea salt
¾ teaspoon black pepper
6 slices of prosciutto di Parma
2 medium-sized heirloom tomatoes, sliced
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Extra-virgin olive oil, to drizzle
Balsamic vinegar, to drizzle
• In a medium-sized bowl, combine the meat, breadcrumbs, egg, milk, cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, onion powder, dried oregano, sea salt and black pepper. Mix well and divide into 4 to 6 patties (depending on your desired size). Wrap each patty with a slice of prosciutto and place on the grill, about 8 minutes on each side.
• Remove the patties from the grill and place them on a serving platter. Top each patty with a slice of tomato and 2 or 3 basil leaves, then drizzle with extra-virgin olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Serve and enjoy!
Photos courtesy of chef Rita El Habr.
SOCIAL SCENE
Ruth Eckerd Hall
“In the Air Tonight”
At 85, legendary singer Tom Jones has still got that swagger, exciting Ruth Eckerd Hall supporters at “In the Air Tonight,” a benefit concert where fans thrilled to hits like “It’s Not Unusual,”
“She’s a Lady” and “Delilah.” WTVT-Ch. 13 reporter Charley Belcher emceed the outdoor bash at The BayCare Sound on May 2, auctioning off memorabilia from the Ruth Eckerd Hall vault, including an acoustic guitar autographed by Ed Sheeran and a top hat signed by guitarist Slash, all helping the event raise nearly $500,000 for the Marcia P. Hoffman School of the Arts, one of the country’s largest arts education programs. After the final encore, guests danced into the night at the after-party under the stars. Text by Amy Scherzer. Photos by Moorman Photographics.
George and Lisa Etheridge and Sevi and Mark Lagos.
Legendary singer Tom Jones. Photo by Joannah Norton/Jo March Photos.
Mike and Lisa Barnett and Carolyn and Tony Bond.
Hannah Hope, Jealixson Jean-Simon and Teresa Hibbard.
Charley and Lindsay Belcher and Patricia and Bobby Rossi.
SOCIAL SCENE
Beth Dillinger Foundation 15th
annual Value Me Luncheon
Five beautiful teens from the Pace Center for Girls stole the spotlight at the 15th annual Value Me Luncheon, modeling confidence and self-worth in evening dresses they selected from Beth’s Closet — one of four organizations supported by the Beth Dillinger Foundation. Co-founder Cat Coats introduced each girl, noting between hugs that each was chosen for their improved grades and behavior at the Pinellas Park school. The May 9 fundraiser celebrated the life and legacy of Beth Dillinger, daughter of Kay and the late Bob Dillinger, relentless advocates for at-risk youth. In her memory, 400 guests at the Hilton St. Petersburg Carillon Park raised $166,000 to help the foundation nourish, educate, clothe and create better futures for thousands of children. Text and photos by Amy Scherzer.
Commissioner Chris Latvala, Kay Dillinger and Duggan Cooley.
Melissa Lostraglio, Grace Hamilton, Bob McIntyre and Lance Becatti.
Beth Houghton, Chris McCabe and Denise McCabe.
Vocalist Mary Hole entertained at the event. Photo by Jonathan Fanning Photography.
Cat and Jim Coats and Jay Coats.
SOCIAL SCENE
Ronald McDonald House
Charities of Tampa Bay Storybook Ball: “Moana”
Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay supporters sailed into the Storybook Ball, this time set in tropical Polynesia, inspired by Disney’s “Moana.” The May 17 benefit celebrated providing 2,000 families with a “home away from home” annually while their children receive medical care at local hospitals. Guests got hands-on during the cocktail hour in the Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel’s courtyard, planting succulents inside oyster shells, a nod to Moana’s connection with the ocean. In a moving video moment, the Moss family of Indianapolis shared their gratitude for their time at a Ronald McDonald House, helping to raise more than $500,000 before the #NoFilter Band got the dance floor overflowing. Text by Amy Scherzer. Photos by Rob Moorman.
Back row: Pram Dass Hisler and Nicole Hisler, Doug Brigman, Colin and Shannon Reid, Laetitia and Ben Boyle and Jeremy Tollberg. Front row: Bjorn and Courtney Erickson, Dave Armstrong, Jacqueline Hale and Joy and Jon Douglas.
Judy and Brian Ford.
Joey and Yashira Anderson.
Carol Hurless and Ed Ameen. Laetitia Boyle.
Lauren Varga, Suzy Mehlinger, Pamela Barber and JoLynn Lokey.
Longboat Key
Craving a Tranquil Escape?
Discover the quiet charm of Longboat Key, where coastal elegance meets relaxed luxury, just a short drive away.
Nestled between the Gulf of Mexico and Sarasota Bay, this serene barrier island offers 12 miles of pristine beaches, chef-driven dining, boutique shopping, and endless ways to unwind. Whether it’s paddleboarding at sunrise, exploring nature preserves, or enjoying sunset waterfront dining, Longboat Key is your perfect getaway for a romantic weekend, solo retreat, or luxurious extended stay.
Reconnect with what matters.
Take advantage of off-season summer rates. Your peaceful escape is just around the corner.
Le Gardénia Bleu Zota Beach Resort
SOCIAL SCENE
Champions for Children Light the Way Soirée
Champions for Children honored CEO Emerita Dr. Amy Haile at the annual Light the Way Soirée, celebrating her 12 years of leadership guiding families “to feel safe, supported and seen” to prevent child abuse — a mission that reached more than 30,000 children (newborns to school-age) and parents (expectant to overwhelmed) last year. The 200 guests welcomed incoming CEO JL Bielon at the April 29 fundraiser at the Shanna & Bryan Glazer JCC and applauded as board chair Dr. Bonnie Saks presented the 2025 Cornelia Corbett Child Advocate Award to retired physician Dr. Moira Burke for her lifelong commitment to helping protect and strengthen families. Text and photos by Amy Scherzer.
Isiah and Teisha McKay.
Kids on the Block educational puppeteers Priscilla Ward, Marcela Filice, Claudia Cullen, Sarah Berrie and Jessica Sullivan.
Dr. Moira Burke, John and Anne Gormly and JL Bielon.
Angela Green, Parker Rabow and Fatima Zinober.
Nina Yankowitz, Filmic Single Frame, 1977/78, Acrylic on canvas. Courtesy of the Artist and Eric Firestone Gallery © 2025 Nina Yankowitz / Licensed by VAGA at Artists Rights Society (ARS), NY
SOCIAL SCENE Tampa Museum of Art
Pride
& Passion
To thine own self be fabulous, to paraphrase Shakespeare, who inspired Pride & Passion co-chairs Nick Buchanan and Lindsay Bard to celebrate the art of being oneself at Pride & Passion: “Timeless Tragedy: A Night of Forbidden Elegance.” This annual event brings the LGBTQ+ community together in support of Tampa Museum of Art programs that help individuals creatively cope with mental health challenges. Star-crossed lovers — from Romeo and Juliet to Marilyn Monroe and JFK to even Bert and Ernie — danced among 450 guests who wore everything from velvet doublets to a suit of armor to a white tuxedo crowned with an Elizabethan collar and tulle train. Drag performances and DJ Fresh, divine hors d’oeuvres, craft cocktails and Channelside Brewing’s debut Pride & Passionfruit Beer delighted partygoers
May 31. Text and photos by Amy Scherzer.
Pride and Passion co-chairs Lindsay Bard and Nick Buchanan.
Jon Behr, Steven Anderson, Rhonda Shear and Van Fagan.
Glenda Register and Heather Collins.
Suzie Toot.
Bill and Kim Cummings.
For over 26 years, Dr Zimmer has provided unparalleled care in internal medicine to thousands of patients. The Zimmer Concierge Medical Membership takes the patient experience to the next level, infusing the highest-quality care with first-rate amenities to make your visits comfortable, convenient, and hassle-free.
We’re bringing back the idea of the family doctor, and creating physician-patient relationships that are authentic and personal. As a member, you’ll benefit from our premium services while receiving care uniquely tailored to your medical needs.
Ammber McClure and Ken Hibbler. Johannex.
Michael A. Zimmer MD, MACP
SOCIAL SCENE
Johns Hopkins All Children’s Foundation A Night for All Children
Powerful stories echoed throughout the annual A Night for All Children gala, each one speaking volumes about the lifesaving care provided at Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. The “Chapters” of history theme carried through the April 26 benefit at The Vinoy Resort & Golf Club, from library decor to novel auction packages. President Alicia Schulhof outlined a healthy future for the St. Petersburg hospital as patients’ families described turning the page on pediatric illnesses, thanks to medical advances helping to write the next chapter to prevent and cure childhood diseases. Text by Amy Scherzer. Photos by Joe Photo Tampa.
Alicia Schulhof, Kevin Sowers and Christina Noordstar.
Kathy and Robert Stahl and Toni and Pat Walsh.
Hannah Gross, Willa Powless, Christina Noordstar, Stephanie McNulty and Jenine Rabin.
Jeff Baker represents Duke Energy at the annual A Night for All Children benefit for the Johns Hopkins All Children’s Foundation.
SOCIAL SCENE
Indo-US Chamber of Commerce
Banyan
Ball
The Indo-US Chamber of Commerce marked another successful year creating business opportunities for Asian Americans, celebrating at the annual Banyan Ball with more than 450 members and guests. Keynote speaker Dr. Renu Khator, president of the University of Houston and the first Indian immigrant to lead a comprehensive research university in the U.S., received a warm welcome April 26 at the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay. She is well remembered for her 22-year career at the University of South Florida. Hiten Bhuta earned a Lifetime Achievement Award; other honorees included Dr. Rima Sanka, Varchasvi Shankar, Ashok Bagdy and Dr. Kavita Jain. Text by Amy Scherzer. Photos by PamElla Lee Photography.
SOCIAL SCENE
July 17: LAB Theater Project Gala. $100. LAB Theater Project. 813-586-4272.
July 19: Martinis for Moffitt. $350. 6-11 p.m. Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. martinisformoffitt.org.
July 20: Empowerment on the Runway: “Strutting with Strength,” which benefits Dress for Success Tampa Bay. $75 and up. 2 p.m. Higgins Hall. dfstampabay.org.
Aug. 7: Gourmet Feastival: “Almost ABBA,” which benefits The Centre for Women. VIP: $150. 5 p.m. General admission: $75. 6 p.m. Higgins Hall. thecentre.org.
Aug. 17: Starlight Gala: “Once Upon a Miracle,” which benefits AdventHealth West Florida
CALENDAR by Amy Scherzer
hospitals’ women’s and children’s services. Features Postmodern Jukebox. $650 and up. 4:30 p.m. JW Marriott Tampa Water Street. adventhealth.com/ foundation/adventhealth-foundation-west-florida/ foundation-west-florida-events.
Aug. 23: Rays on the Runway: “Dreams Take Center Stage,” which benefits the Children’s Dream Fund. $200. 6:30-11 p.m. Power Design. childrensdreamfund.org/event/rays-on-therunway-3.
Sept. 6: Eye Ball: “A Roaring ’20s Speakeasy,” which benefits the Lions World Vision Institute Foundation. $250. 6 p.m. Armature Works. 813-289-1200 or foundation@lwvi.org.
Contact Amy Scherzer at amyscherzersdiary@ gmail.com to have your event listed on the calendar.
Don’t miss this annual opportunity to promote your fundraising event, capital campaign or latest success.
Contact Kerry O’Reilly at koreilly@tampabay.com for details.
Aakash Patel, Dr. Renu Khator, Dr. Subhasis Misra, Michelina Carbone and Dr. Yogi Goswami.
Board chair Thiru Govender, Consul General of India in Atlanta Ramesh Babu Lakshmanan, Mayor Jane Castor, Lakshmi Seshadri, Rasesh Patel and Dr. Prasant Mohapatra.
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