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Welcome Back 2025

Back in the swing of things For those of you returning to the sunny skies and sandy beaches of Pinellas County, let us at Tampa Bay Newspapers be the first to say “Welcome Back!” Now, it’s time to get back in the know and catch up on everything you’ve missed, which is a lot. Speaking of those sandy beaches, you may have noticed work is underway to restore them. Work is also underway on repairing Tropicana Field, the future of which is still a mystery. Those are just two of the biggest stories from the past six months. So find your slice of paradise in the following pages and get back up to speed.

Health & Wellness Learn ways to stay healthy by helping yourself and others around the community.

Dining & Entertainment Get ready to play. There’s no shortage of concerts, plays, and food and art festivals coming up around Pinellas.

The fall event schedule was kicked off earlier this month with IRB Oktoberfest, top, but there are plenty more on the way. Photo by JEFF ROSENFIELD/TBN

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Pinellas County

Photo by DIRK SHADD/Tampa Bay Times

An aerial drone view from over the Gulf at Sunset Beach in Treasure Island. Beach renourishment is underway along the gulf beaches, but this time Pinellas County is doing it without the aid of the federal government.

County goes it alone on beaches Tampa Bay Newspapers A year ago, Hurricane Helene caused almost unprecedented death and destruction in Pinellas County. It also washed away already depleted beaches along the gulf coast. In September, for the first time since 2018, the county began rebuilding those beaches. But it’s doing it without the aid of the federal government. In September, the county proceeded without financial support from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which now requires all beachfront property owners to grant ongoing public access to their property. Historically, the Army Corps picked up 65% of the cost. There has been some resistance among residents, and only 80% of property owners have complied with temporary agreements. So for the first time, the county is paying the entire bill: $125.7 million. The county is using Tourism Development Tax dollars and

$14.2 million in grant reimbursement from the state to cover the cost, which commissioners approved in June. The Sand Key portion of the project will have gaps because more than 91 residents haven’t signed temporary construction easements, including more than 30 people from Indian Shores. So, there may be low spots behind some homes, particularly on Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores and Redington Shores. Sand still will be spread to form a beach on public portions of the shoreline farther from homes. Beach renourishment extends the depth of the beach to absorb effects from future storms. It replaces sand that has washed away by pumping sand from offshore or elsewhere onto the beach. The project will span Sand Key, from Clearwater Beach to North Redington Beach, and Treasure Island and Upham Beach. The total project is expected to require more than

2.5 million cubic yards of sand, an amount that would fill St. Petersburg’s Dalí Museum more than 40 times. The county has a webpage for more information on the beach nourishment project and timeline. Those impacted by last year’s hurricanes can also receive aid from the county. Residents who have yet to repair their homes or recover financially now have access to millions of dollars in new programs focused on helping vulnerable homeowners and renters recover. Applications for the People First Hurricane Recovery program opened Oct. 20 to help low- and moderate-income residents repair or replace their homes, avoid the need for long-term relocation, and make housing safer and more affordable. Detailed program information, including income requirements and documents needed to apply, is posted online at recover.pinellas.gov.

Possible school closures

While residents and businesses recover, Pinellas County Schools are facing headwinds that could lead to some difficult decisions. Families should expect to see some schools close next year — and more in following years — as the school district aims to confront enrollment declines that show no sign of rebounding. No details are set, superintendent Kevin Hendrick said during a Sept. 16 school board workshop, as his team plans to conduct town hall sessions and gather community feedback before settling on specific recommendations due in January. At least a couple of ideas are off the table for the near term, though. Hendrick pledged not to consider any major school boundary revisions for next fall, to allow adequate time for public engagement in that often contentious process. He also

said he didn’t intend to propose closing any high schools, noting they have academic programs that would be costly to reproduce, as well as intangible benefits that make them valuable beyond enrollment and financial data points. “I do anticipate some closure recommendations similar to what you’ve seen in the past few years,” Hendrick said.

Creative Pinellas cuts

County commissioners moved to slash spending on a program that provides grants and exhibit space for artists, and signaled they may move to cut more. They did so despite protests from a packed house of residents who argued that public support for the arts is a major part of what gives the county its identity. The 5-2 vote to lop funding for Creative Pinellas came as the county faces scrutiny from Gov. Ron DeSantis’ administration, which launched

a statewide effort to ferret out wasteful spending by local governments. More than 100 people filled the meeting chambers Sept. 4 to tell commissioners that providing financial assistance for artists and their work is not wasteful.

New rental rules

In April, the county strengthened its vacation rental ordinance, designed to have owners of rental properties register and face stiff code enforcement action fines for infractions. County commissioners gave code enforcement marching orders to strictly regulate those who don’t play by a new set of rules and regulations. “It really comes down to enforcement and whether we’re committed to enforcing what we all agree is important,” Commissioner Dave Eggers said. — Tampa Bay Newspapers and Tampa Bay Times reports

PSTA revamps bus system By MARK PARKER

St. Pete Catalyst

The Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority, in response to evolving transit trends, is overhauling its countywide bus network for the first time since the agency’s inception in 1984. Revamped routes will offer more night and weekend service to meet demand. The changes will also improve connectivity and reduce transfer times. Fares will remain unchanged. PSTA’s Connected Community Bus Network will launch Oct. 26. Planning Director Nicole Dufva noted the sweeping initiative is cost-neutral and will operate within the agency’s current “pretty constrained” budget. “This is the first time we’ve done a really robust, comprehensive analysis of our service,” Dufva told the Catalyst. “We’ve been collecting data for at least two to three years on travel patterns and how people are getting around Pinellas County. How they’re using PSTA’s bus service now.” Commute patterns have shifted following the pandemic, with many people now working remotely. Those changes are more pronounced in a county dominated by the tourism and hospitality industries that require employees to work nights and weekends.

Dufva said weekend ridership has nearly recovered to pre-pandemic levels, while weekday service is “no longer in high demand.” Transfer times can discourage people from utilizing public transit, and PSTA wants to ensure more people can get off a bus and onto another with no wait. “Routes are designed to be more direct,” Dufva said. “They’re more corridor-based, with fewer deviations.” Connectivity to downtown St. Petersburg, Grand Central Station, the Park Street Terminal and the Largo Transit Center should improve significantly. PSTA will merge multiple downtown routes that end in various locations to mitigate walking distances between stations. “So, the transfers in downtown St. Pete should be closer together with the new network,” Dufva added. PSTA also eagerly anticipates the Oct. 27 launch of Spark, a limited-stop, high-frequency bus route along 34th Street South in St. Petersburg. The service, which connects Eckerd College students to Grand Central Station, will operate from 5 a.m. to midnight. Dufva said the agency is “really trying” to increase frequency and “add more Sunrunner-like services without the dedicated lane, knowing that

Photo by MARK PARKER

Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority buses await passengers at St. Petersburg’s Grand Central Station. we can’t have that.” The goal is to follow a model similar to the region’s first bus rapid transit service, with “some premium-branded stations.” “It’s really exciting for us to launch the service,” Dufva said of Spark. “I think it’s going to be one that we try to replicate across the county.” Local planning agency Forward Pinellas and PSTA have already identified U.S. 19 Alt., “from St. Petersburg all the way up to Tarpon Springs,” as a potential route. “So, looking at that whole corridor, and how can we add similar, premium rapid service?” Dufva said. “It’s probably still a few years into the future, but that’s something we’re actively working on now.” The overarching goal is to

continue aligning stakeholder feedback with cost-effective services. Those efforts recently led to the Grouper, an on-demand, low-fare shuttle service between St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport and Clearwater Beach. PSTA is also exploring a high-frequency route between downtown St. Petersburg and Tampa International Airport. The new Howard Frankland Bridge’s express lanes will facilitate that service when construction concludes in early 2026. For now, PSTA’s focus remains on gathering additional public feedback, as it has for over two years, to inform the Connected Community Bus Network. Dufva said agency officials will conduct “robust

outreach” on buses, at transit centers and through community events held in partnership with the Foundation for a Healthy St. Pete. She noted that multiple routes stop at the Publix plaza in downtown St. Petersburg, and that will continue serving as a primary transfer hub. “We’re just working with the city to make sure we have all the space needed to layover, and they’ve been great partners,” Dufva said. She believes additional stakeholders will realize the benefits of high-frequency, premium service when the Spark launches. “With or without the dedicated lanes,” Dufva added. PSTA’s governing board unanimously approved the new network in March. Dufva

said they support the agency’s innovative approach to prioritizing limited resources and providing streamlined services “where riders need it the most. “It’s a pretty big reorganization, and it’s all-hands-on-deck at PSTA,” she said. “We’re just really excited about it.” Despite the massive overhaul, PSTA also plans to lower its millage rate – the formula used to calculate property taxes – for the second consecutive year. “We do our due diligence with the money that we do get from our taxpayers, and we try to bring the best service that we can to them,” Dufva said. This content provided in partnership with stpetecatalyst. com.

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Seminole

Growing pains, growing solutions with the power line, triggering the fatal accident. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration investigated the incident. The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office said the incident appears accidental with nothing suspicious.

By BOB PUTNAM

Tampa Bay Newspapers Snowbirds returning to Seminole this fall will find a city grappling with infrastructure challenges while investing in its future. Here are the five biggest stories from the past six months.

Residents demand flooding fixes

County tackles troubled roadway

Pinellas County launched a $15.7 million reconstruction of 102nd Avenue North, transforming the problem-plagued stretch into a three-lane corridor. The project includes a roundabout designed to reduce crashes on the two-lane road in unincorporated Seminole. The makeover addresses safety concerns that have plagued the corridor for years. Work starts in 2027 on the ambitious project aimed at improving traffic flow and reducing accidents in the busy area.

New fire station on track

Seminole moved closer to building a fire station in Bay Pines after years of planning. The City Council selected a contractor in April and approved a construction agreement in June for pre-construction services not to exceed $93,838. Officials hope to break ground before year’s end. The Construction Manager at Risk process helps control costs and keep timelines on track while encouraging early collaboration between builders and architects. Pinellas County will cover 71% of costs, with Seminole

Map courtesy of PINELLAS COUNTY

Pinellas County proposes roadway, drainage and sidewalk improvements along 102nd Avenue North in unincorporated Seminole between 113th Street North and 125th Street. paying 29%. The city must pay upfront and seek reimbursement later. Once completed, the new station will enhance emergency response services throughout the Seminole Fire District.

Stormwater fee approved

The City Council unanimously approved a stormwater utility ordinance in June, creating dedicated funding for flood control and drainage repairs. Residents will pay less than $12 monthly — about $144

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annually — for street sweeping, pipe maintenance, drainage repairs and water quality improvements. “If you go to Starbucks twice, you’ve already paid your stormwater fee for the year,” Public Works Director Rodney Due told residents. The move addresses flooding issues that have plagued neighborhoods citywide. Revenue will support compliance with federal water quality mandates. Capital projects include the Lake Pearl drainage upgrade and Baywood Park

pipe relining. Properties with certified private stormwater systems may qualify for 25% to 50% credits if maintained and recertified every five years.

Worker killed in power line tragedy

A utility worker died, and two others suffered severe burns, Aug. 12 while installing a power pole on Park Boulevard. Justin Bryan, 30, was pronounced dead at the scene after equipment struck the

pole, causing it to contact a power line. The explosion ignited surrounding grass and left 14,000 customers without power. Jefferey Busch, 27, and Matthew Waldrop, 31, were hospitalized with severe burns. The crew worked for Primoris, a Duke Energy subcontractor. The incident happened around 2 p.m. at 8675 Park Blvd. as workers struggled to position the pole properly. When the boom operator’s equipment struck it, the pole made contact

News from St. Pete Beach to Tarpon Springs

Angry homeowners packed City Hall in September, demanding answers about chronic flooding in Grove Terrace and Oakdale Terrace. Water had entered garages and homes for more than a year. Some residents lost cars. Others watched belongings pile up on driveways after each storm. The culprit: an unpermitted gate blocking a 72-inch drainage pipe near Seminole Gardens Apartments. The apartment complex installed the gate in 2020 to contain grass carp used for weed control in Lake Seminole. City officials said they would have rejected the installation had they known about it. “We shouldn’t have flooded again,” resident Harry Berg told the council. The gate has been removed and replaced with a fence. Due said a temporary sump built during construction phases of the project doesn’t impede flow. A phased stormwater project aims to eliminate standing water by fiscal year 2025-26. City Manager Ann ToneyDeal said the flooding during Hurricane Milton was storm-related, not infrastructure-related. Streets were clear the morning after.

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Welcome Back 2025

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Largo

New City Hall nearly finished By JEFF ROSENFIELD

Tampa Bay Newspapers

LARGO — Largo is one of the fastest growing communities in the Tampa Bay region, thanks to a recent surge in commercial and residential growth anchored by the $85 million Horizon West Bay mixed-use development downtown. Coupled with recent plans to expand Largo’s boundaries and development districts, the Central Pinellas County community is quickly becoming a highly desirable destination to live, work and relax. Horizon West Bay is a key component of the city’s future growth. The complex, which is located on the 400 block of West Bay Drive, is anchored by a new City Hall and 20,000-square-feet of restaurant and retail space, and it is expected to open later this month, according to project officials. “The majority of the plantings and landscaping will be in this week, and the floors are stocked with furniture,” Travis Parker, president of lead contractor Biltmore Construction, told the Largo City Commission on Sept. 16, adding they were “finishing up the ground floor now, the millwork and all the little finish items.” Parker said if all went according to plan, they were “looking forward to getting out of there with a substantial completion of October 31, according to the schedule,” adding, “it’s moving along and moving forward.” He noted some hardscaping and landscaping work on the north end of the project would not be finished by that date, and he cited the 2024 storms and rising inflation for the delays that pushed the opening of the facility, which he labeled one of the nicest in the state, from early spring to late fall. “It’s a beautiful project,” Parker said of the mammoth, modern structure, adding, “I

The Tonne Playhouse inside the Largo Central Park Performing Arts Center recently underwent more than $2 million worth of improvements that included new seating, flooring, lighting, sound systems, paint and acoustic panels.

Photos by JEFF ROSENFIELD/TBN

Horizon West Bay, an $85-million mixed-use development anchored by a new Largo City Hall as well as 20,000 square feet of restaurant and retail space along the 400 block of West Bay Drive, is scheduled to be completed in late October, according to a recent update from project officials. get compliments on it all the time, from architects and other cities. But I don’t think anyone is going to have one nearly as nice as this.” “I’m hearing nothing but glowing reviews,” Mayor Woody Brown added.

Largo agrees to market, develop current City Hall site

With Largo city officials, employees and staffers soon set to relocate to the new Horizon West Bay development a few

miles away, their attention will turn to the soon-to-be vacant City Hall on Highland Ave. Last November, Largo voters approved a referendum that gave the city the authority to sell the 14-acre property that’s home to the current City

Hall, the police department and other civic buildings, and this summer, the commission unanimously approved a land use amendment that allows for new residential and retail development on the land, with certain restrictions. “The overall vision for the site is mixed-use development that fosters a sense of place by integrating housing, common area spaces and light commercial uses,” city planner Whitney Clark said at a July 1 commission meeting, noting that “any sale would be restricted to a mixed-use development, which could only include residential, retail, restaurant, professional office, public safety and accessory recreational uses.” Two weeks later the board voted 5-2 in favor of hiring real estate brokerage firm CBRE to market the site, with commissioner Mike DiBrizzi and Vice Mayor Curtis Holmes voting against the deal that will see Largo pay CBRE $13,000 per month for up to 18 months and a maximum of $234,000. The contract states that if officials decide to relocate the police department, the fee for the relocation services would be $15,500 per month, for a maximum total payout of $279,000.

City Manager John Curp on July 15 said a phased approach to developing the property is planned, meaning any relocation of the police department “could be a decade away,” and he noted the city has the right to terminate the CBRE contract at any time after providing 30-day notice. “I’m confident that if we don’t have a development at the end of 18 months, they will fall back into their role as a commercial Realtor and be incentivized by the brokerage fees that would come from delivering a project,” he said.

Performing arts center receives major upgrade

After hosting thousands of concerts and comedy shows, plays and live performances over nearly thirty years, the Largo Central Park Performing Arts Center’s Tonne Playhouse recently received a much-needed facelift. The $2.3 million renovation project, paid for by American Rescue Plan Act funds and a generous donation from the CPPAC foundation, revitalized the aging playhouse, adding See LARGO, page 7

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Clearwater

Some shocking, sad days Tampa Bay Newspapers Clearwater showed signs of revival the past six months, but tragedy and sadness made the biggest mark. In late April, Jose Castro, a 41-year-old postal service worker from Tarpon Springs, was killed after a boat slammed into the rear of the Clearwater Ferry near the Memorial Causeway bridge. After more than two months of investigation by state officials, the driver of the boat, local business mogul Jeffry Knight, was arrested and charged with eight felony counts of leaving the scene of a crash involving death or injury. Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission officers took Knight, who owns St. Petersburg concert venue Jannus Live, into custody on a warrant at St. Pete-Clearwater International Airport upon his return from the Bahamas on July 28. Additional misdemeanor charges filed against Knight included two counts of violating navigational rules by failing to maintain a proper lookout or safe speed, wildlife agency officials said at a news conference July 29. In an emailed statement July 29, J. Kevin Hayslett, Knight’s attorney, denied his client left the scene of the crash. Hayslett also decried what he called a duplicitous number of charges “not based on physical evidence or objective facts.”

Hailing the Hulkster

Another sad day arrived July 24 when Clearwater’s most famous resident died of heart failure. Terry Gene Bollea, better known as Hulk Hogan, died at age 71. Hogan grew up just across the bay, in Tampa, before a career in wrestling, movies and TV made him famous around the world. Friends and colleagues gathered Aug. 5 to say goodbye. Law enforcement vehicles escorted the funeral procession through Pinellas County, where Bollea lived for decades and where a restaurant and beach shop still bear his name. During the service at Indian Rocks Baptist Church, Bollea’s casket was covered in red and yellow flowers, the colors of his most iconic wrestling costume. Musician Kid Rock, podcaster Theo Von and TV personality Bam Margera were in attendance, as well as pro wrestling legends Ric Flair, who lives in Tampa, Paul “Triple H“ Levesque and Vince McMahon. The honors didn’t stop there. On Oct. 3, Gov. Ron DeSantis announced at Hogan’s Hangout in Clearwater Beach that he was dedicating a 2-mile portion of the Memorial Causeway trail to the wrestler. It will stretch from Oak Avenue to Coronado

LARGO, from page 6 new seating, lighting, sound systems, acoustic panels, and other enhancements designed to enhance and improve the theatergoing experience. “The main thing that’s different in this space is the seating,” CPPAC Manager Audrey Siegler said during the Sept. 30 ribbon-cutting ceremony, noting they added “almost an additional 100 seats to our seating chamber just by squaring it off.” Additional improvements included new flooring, a painted ceiling, and the addition of neon lighting that replaced the 1990s-era colors that previously adorned the interior of the theater. “We had some painting done that helped reimagine the space to a more modern aesthetic,” Siegler said, adding they “replaced some of the teal and we’re coming into the 2020s with a more modern look.” The work, which also included an additional $200,000 in backstage improvements to sound and lighting paid for by a CPPAC foundation donation, was important to a facility that plays such a big role in the community, according to Mayor Woody Brown. “We all know an investment in the Central Park Performing Arts Center is an investment in our community,” Brown said, noting the center “supports our

owners. Rob Menard said the couple has decades of hospitality industry experience. “We took it over with plans to revitalize the vibe,” Menard said.

A transit milestone

Photo by DOUGLAS R. CLIFFORD/Tampa Bay Times

Investigators stand at the bow of the Clearwater Ferry following the fatal crash.

After more than a decade of planning, the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority and the city of Clearwater officially broke ground Aug. 22 on the new Clearwater Station, a state-of-the-art, multimodal hub. The new transit center is being built on two acres at Court Street and Myrtle Avenue, adjacent to the new City Hall and the Pinellas Trail. When complete in late 2026, early 2027, the Clearwater Station will replace the Park Street terminal built in the 1980s. The new facility will be twice the size, fully ADA-compliant, and designed to serve more than 2,300 riders daily, including modern electric buses.

Missing murals

Tampa Bay Times file photo

Hulk Hogan takes the stage at Raymond James Stadium in March 2019. The 71-year-old died of cardiac arrest. Drive and will have exercise stations along it. He also declared Aug. 1 as “Hulk Hogan Day in Florida.”

More notable deaths

Hogan wasn’t the only one to leave a void in the community. James “Buddy” Powell, a trailblazing manatee researcher whose decades of work advanced the conservation of one of Florida’s most beloved species, died July 19 after a battle with cancer, the Clearwater Marine Aquarium said. He was 70. Powell’s pioneering body of research, which ranged from tracking manatee populations to revelations on their behavior, genetic diversity and the myriad threats to their health, helped establish protected areas in Florida and across the world, from West Africa to Central America and Cuba. On Aug. 29, Ed Armstrong, a prominent Pinellas County attorney, whose lengthy client list over the years ranged from the Tampa Bay Rays to the Church of Scientology, died. Armstrong, 68, was playing golf at the Belleair Country Club, when he collapsed. Over 43 years in Tampa Bay, Armstrong specialized in land use and real estate law. He represented the likes of JMC Com-

strategic focus that enhances community pride, and it really just adds to the quality of life in Largo and here in central Pinellas County.” Outside the facility, a pair of electric vehicle charging stations have been installed, part of a Duke Energy program. “Duke would own the chargers,” Utilities Director Shelby Beauchemin said in July of the 10-year agreement, noting the fast-chargers will be capable of charging a vehicle in 30-60 minutes. At the end of the program, the city will have the option to purchase the chargers at book value or request removal of the chargers, Beauchemin said.

Boundaries, districts set to expand

As the downtown is set to experience a substantial surge in growth, the area around the district is set to expand in size and scope, following the passage this spring of legislation designed to expand the Clearwater-Largo Road and West Bay Drive community redevelopment districts, or CRDs, a multi-phased, 20-year plan that includes annexing unincorporated areas into the city. “This current proposal will include an expanded area that goes east of the railroad as far as Betty Lane to the east that adds a total of 537 acres to the existing area, and the total would then be 844 acres,”

munities, Ocean Properties, Ryland Homes, David Mack and Nickel Plate Properties, among others. He played a role in developing residential communities, Walmarts, shopping centers and grocery stores.

Recovery and revivals

It wasn’t all sad news the past six months. Several city staples showed signs of life, including Clearwater Beach’s Pier 60. The pier, which was battered by hurricanes Helene and Milton, partially reopened over Labor Day weekend. Many Pinellas County restaurants were forced to close after suffering heavy damage during the fall hurricanes, but some well-known establishments reopened, like the Palm Pavilion on Clearwater Beach or Capogna’s Dugout on Gulf to Bay Boulevard. The restaurant was founded by Art Capogna in 1973. Stefani DiMaio, one of four siblings who run Capogna’s, said “skyrocketing” costs — even before the hurricane — had the family considering whether to get out of the business.” They decided to close following the hurricanes, but a partnership with Sean Stoffel, a former owner of Monty’s

Assistant Community Development Director Robert Klute said in May of the Clearwater-Largo Road CRD. “So, it’s a major expansion.” The intent, according to officials, is to create Tax Increment Financing, or TIF, districts, where fees are used to fund improvements to the areas that would include safety, beautifying properties, creating walkable areas and making pedestrian and roadway improvements. The plan, which would be implemented over 20 years and is estimated to cost more than $11 million, is also designed to make Missouri Avenue and Clearwater-Largo Road safer, while encouraging mixed-use development in the downtown area, which dovetailed with the corresponding ordinance. According to Planning Manager Alicia Parinello, the idea behind the proposed amendments to the West Bay Drive Community Redevelopment District is to “try and condense, consolidate and streamline a lot of the components in the CRD plan and make it very clear.” The six-part plan includes addressing inconsistencies, removing regulatory language and streamlining design standards of the downtown area’s four major character districts —mixed-use, medical arts, city home and neighborhood residential — in an effort to provide more clarity for each of those distinct character areas.

Photo by JEFF ROSENFIELD/TBN

Capogna’s Dugout in Clearwater recently reopened after the family-owned Italian restaurant closed in the wake of Hurricane Milton last fall. The restaurant now is run by a partnership between Capogna family siblings Stefani DiMaio and Chris Capogna, left, and former Monty’s Pizzeria owner Sean Stoffel. Pizzeria who moved to Indiana after selling the Nursery Road restaurant, salvaged the business. Fresh blood also revived the Clearwater Brewing Co. An overflow crowd showed

up for the Aug. 14 ribbon-cutting at the revamped building, as new co-owners Hannah and Rob Menard seek to revitalize the brewery at 1700 N. Fort Harrison Ave. It was closed two years ago by its previous

The city removed several street paintings in order to come into compliance with a statewide directive against public art displays on roadways. Officials in St. Petersburg, Tampa and Clearwater received letters Aug. 22 with directions: Remove the identified street murals by Sept. 4 or risk losing state funding. Clearwater Mayor Bruce Rector said the city didn’t “have any choice” but to comply. The state identified six locations for removal: MLK Jr. Avenue and Woodlawn Street; Rainbow Drive and Mars Avenue; Hart Street and Pennsylvania Avenue; North Fort Harrison Avenue and Eldridge Street; Garden Avenue and Cleveland Street; and North Fort Harrison Avenue from Nicholson to Seminole street. Officials began covering the murals Aug. 25.

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Belleair/Belleair Bluffs

A new hotel could be on the way By JEFF ROSENFIELD

Tampa Bay Newspapers

BELLEAIR BLUFFS

The City Commission in July approved a set of ordinances that will allow transient lodging, or hotels and motels, to be built in the commercial section of town along the West Bay Drive corridor. The code changes were requested by Tony Utegaard, a local businessman and hotelier who has plans to build an upscale boutique hotel on a vacant lot on West Bay Drive just east of the Belleair Causeway. “My partners and I put together a plan and from day one I said I don’t want just a motel or hotel. I want something that’s going to be a landmark for the community,” Utegaard said during a June work session. The amendments to the city’s comprehensive plan allow hotels and motels in the district and establish temporary lodging height and density standard, as well as parking requirements for such facilities. On July 21, the city Planning Board recommended approval of the ordinances, and later that day, the city commissioners on second and final reading approved the trio of ordinances, paving the way for Utegaard to pursue his “longtime dream” of opening a boutique hotel in his hometown. “When you get to the point where the city is willing to change its code of ordinances for you, it’s a vote of confidence that makes you feel good and confident you are doing the right thing for the community,” Utegaard said. He hopes to have a groundbreaking by year’s end.

New businesses

New businesses popping up around town include sports bars in the former Cody’s Roadhouse and the former Venus restaurant, and a speakeasy-style bar from the owners of the Belleair Market that

Photos by JEFF ROSENFIELD/TBN

A family of successful restaurateurs plan to open an upscale sports bar in the former home of Cody’s Roadhose, located at 2890 West Bay Drive in the Belleair Bluffs Plaza. opened in mid-October. In June, Schooners West Bay, a casual sports bar and restaurant, opened at 2441 W. Bay Drive in the former Venus site. Also in June, Constantinos Pappas, a member of a family that owns Backwaters Grill and Bar locations in Sand Key and North Redington Beach, announced plans for a Tavern on the Bluffs sports bar in the Cody’s site. Belleair Hideaway, the socalled speakeasy-style bar and bistro is tucked away behind some plantings at 560 Indian Rocks Road. The Hideaway features an L-shaped bar and a an outdoor patio. The establishment features an extensive beer and wine list as well as appetizers and entrees. “We have been hopping!” Chris Scott said soon after the opening. He owns the bar with Julie Champion. The couple also own the nearby market and the Belleair Café.

BELLEAIR Bluff work is finally moving forward

After years of planning, and waiting, work on the long-awaited bluff erosion study is complete, and town officials are deciding how to mitigate the erosion. During the Aug. 19 Belleair Town Commission meeting, representatives from an environmental consulting firm presented their final report on a plan to address erosion threatening sections of the town’s coastal shoreline. Samantha Danchuk of APTIM detailed the “physical study of the bluff (and) how the groundwater might affect the runoff rate,” noting the aim was to come up with a cost-effective design to fight erosion while taking aesthetic considerations into account. “It’s an incredibly beautiful and unique geographical feature,” she said of the natural

area near Hallet Park. “We have an opportunity to improve water quality with this project and have a return on the investment.” The bluff study, initially approved in 2022, found a 3 ½-foot drop at the base of the bluff due to erosion, which Danchuk called “high for the region.” She said work to fix the issue would involve “low-impact construction methods” and a “living shoreline” feature, employing natural materials such as plants, logs and oyster reefs to protect coastlines from erosion. The living shoreline option comes with a probable cost of $4.4 million, and Danchuk said they would try to identify state and federal grants that could be tapped for the project. After Town Manager Gay Lancaster said staff “is supportive of the recommendation that protects the shoreline the most,” the board voted 5-0 to move forward with the living shoreline and breakwater. “I’ve been to multiple places where this works 100%,” Commissioner Tom Kelly said.

Board approves rate hikes for FY 2026

Following the summer budget sessions, commissioners unanimously agreed to a trio of utility rate hikes for fiscal 2026, including 5% increases on wastewater and solid waste fees and a 4% increase in the sewer rate. According to Lancaster, “the increases are pegged to our costs,” as the county has set the

WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark, left, and LPGA star Nelly Korda will return to the Pelican Golf Club course next month, as the pair are set to participate in the pro-am event on Nov. 12. Korda will attempt to win the LPGA tournament event for the fourth time. increases, affecting municipalities that their utility services, including Belleair. “So, we don’t have a choice,” said Nanette Freeman, the town’s acting finance director. Freeman said the proposed increases mean the monthly wastewater fee will rise from a previous $4.74 per 1,000 gallons to $4.98; sewer costs will rise from $21.25 to $22.10 for the base rate of under 10,000 gallons used per month; and the solid waste fee will go from a previous $58.35 to $61.27. The changes were set to take effect on Oct. 1.

Shelly recognized for his commitment to community

Belleair Vice Mayor Tom Shelly was honored for his 20 years of government service when he received the 2025 Mayor John Land Years of Service Award from the Florida League of Cities on Aug. 19. The longtime local lawmaker received glowing words of praise from FLC ambassador Eryn Russell for his many contributions to the community over the past two decades. “This award recognizes municipal elected officials like Deputy Mayor Shelly for such extensive and dedicated years of service,” Russell said, noting the award was named for a for-

mer Apopka mayor.

The Annika LPGA Tournament returns

The 2025 Annika by Gainbridge at Pelican is schduled for Nov. 13-16 at Pelican Golf Club in Belleair, and the sixth edition of the LPGA Tour event promises to be another crowd pleaser for Tampa Bay area golf fans. In addition to returning three-time event champion Nelly Korda, who has skyrocketed to internation stardom, the field is scheduled to feature fan favorites Lexi Thompson, Charley Hull and Brooke Henderson, among others. WNBA superstar Caitlin Clark will again participate in the Annika’s pro-am on Wednesday, Nov. 12. “I had an amazing time at The Annika last November and participating in the ProAm alongside Nelly Korda and Annika Sorenstam, two of the best in the game,” Clark said in an Oct. 16 press release. “I can’t wait to return to Tampa in November to play in the Pro-Am with the best women golfers in the world.” According to tournament officials, the pro-am is open to the public, and tickets for celebrity event, as well as the tournament rounds, can be purchased online at TheAnnika.com.

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elcome Back

Indian Rocks Beach

A year full of big changes By JEFF ROSENFIELD

people want to represent their community.”

INDIAN ROCKS BEACH — More than a year after hurricanes Helene and Milton decimated Florida’s Gulf Coast, causing a swath of destruction across the Tampa Bay area, many of Pinellas County’s barrier island communities are still recovering from the backto-back Category 3 storms. In Indian Rocks Beach, dozens of hurricane-ravaged homes remain vacant, while many others are in various stages of being rebuilt and repaired; however, the post office recently reopened and City Hall hosted its first public meeting in more than a year, two signs that the resilient beach community was finally bouncing back. There also was some government turnover. In early May, City Manager Gregg Mims announced that he would be leaving the position he’d held for more than a decade at the end of July. The same day as Mims’ announcement, City Attorney Randy Mora said he would not be renewing his contract when it expired June 1, leaving two crucial openings to be filled simultaneously. Fortunately, city officials acted swiftly, replacing Mims and Mora within two months. After the commission agreed in May to use an updated version of a Request for Proposals to find Mora’s successor, the board on June 24 voted 5-0 in favor of hiring Matthew Maggard of the renowned Tampa based municipal law firm Shumaker, Loop and Kendrick, to replace the longtime city attorney. “I don’t think this is the time to go local,” Vice Mayor Janet Wilson said in response to a remark about utilizing a smaller firm, adding, “We have some serious (legal) issues that need to be addressed.” And after agreeing to forgo using an expensive headhunt-

Beach renourishment project to start soon

Tampa Bay Newspapers

Photos by JEFF ROSENFIELD/TBN

Indian Rocks Beach is showing signs of coming back to normal following the devastation of last year’s hurricane season, as the library and City Hall recently reopened, and the popular Oktoberfest on the Beach drew record crowds to Kolb Park earlier this month. ing firm to find a new city manager in favor of a pro-bono consultant with industry experience, the commission, following a multi-phased process, voted to hire Ryan Henderson, the former city manager in Anna, Texas, and a Fort Lauderdale government official, to replace Mims. “I’m a community builder; I’m of that mindset,” Henderson told the commissioners during a presentation he made on the morning of Aug. 12, hours before the board chose him over two other candidates. “In Fort Lauderdale, it was embedded in me at the very beginning that that all this is geared toward making sure the community feels heard,

and that’s my background. That’s my heart and that’s my passion.” According to his bio, Henderson was the city manager in Anna, Texas, from 2023 until June, when he resigned. Prior to that, he held several positions in local government in Anna and in Fort Lauderdale, where he worked soon after he graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Master of Public Administration degree in 2013.

Houseberg to seek second term as mayor

Following a tumultuous year that included hurricane

recovery, seven lawsuits and the departure of key City Hall officials, Mayor Denise Houseberg announced she would be seeking a second term as mayor in March. Houseberg, who was first elected to the commission in 2021 and was automatically appointed to succeed then mayor Cookie Kennedy in March 2024, said she didn’t feel right exiting office at this transitional time. “In the last few months, we’ve changed all the major players,” Houseberg said in late September of the loss of their city manager, city attorney and finance director in the last four months. “We still have the lawsuits pending, and we’re in the

middle of discussing important issues like parking and other development issues. “So, I feel like it’s a little fragile time for me to walk away and not help with this transition phase,” she said. “This is uncharted territory for us, and I feel so bad for our employees. I want to make sure we’re on solid ground.” Houseberg said she expects to face opposition at the polls on March 11, 2026, when two other commission seats will also be up for grabs. “Oh, I know I’ll have an opponent this time,” she said with a laugh. “But I welcome the challenge. I believe it’s always a good sign when you have

All the snowbirds and visitors coming back to Pinellas County this fall have the same question: What the heck are those machines spitting sand onto the beaches up and down the Gulf Coast?! The answering is surprising, considering it’s been several years since any beach renourishment has taken place, and each time the projects designed to combat shoreline erosion have been conducted under the overview of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. But after a devastating 2024 hurricane season that saw thee named storms decimate the region, and with a yearslong standoff with the Corps over private property easements showing no signs of letting up, county officials decided to take matters into their own hands, funding a $125 million project that will add more than 2.5 million cubic yards of sand along the shore from Sand Key to Treasure island over the next few months. “The beach renourishment project is already underway,” Indian Rocks Beach’s interim city manager Dan Carpenter said in late September, noting IRB’s work is “slated for the October through December piece of that project. So, we’re getting close.” During the latest city commission meeting, however, officials noted that IRB’s portion has been delayed. “The work was supposed to start on Oct. 13,” Public Works Director Dean Scharmen said on Oct. 14. Scharmen said after discussions with the county, their portion of the renourishment work is set to start in mid-November. “I can’t promise that,” he said. “But that’s what I’ve been told.”

elcome Back

St. Petersburg

All eyes on the Rays, Trop Tampa Bay Newspapers ST. PETERSBURG — If you’ve been away since spring, you’ve missed quite a bit. The past six months brought seismic changes to the Sunshine City — from a historic baseball team sale to the removal of beloved street art, from water billing scandals to a massive redevelopment proposal that could reshape downtown for generations. Hurricane recovery remains the backdrop for much of the news. Tropicana Field still bears scars from Hurricane Milton, thousands of residents are still rebuilding from Hurricane Helene, and city leaders just secured $160 million in federal aid to help homeowners elevate and repair their homes. But St. Petersburg hasn’t stood still. The city gained new restaurants, lost old favorites, opened a renovated library after a four-year wait and saved a shuttered science center from becoming a sewage storage site. Here are some of the biggest stories you missed while you were away.

The Rays and their home

Photo by DIRK SHADD/Tampa Bay Times

Work continues on the roof at Tropicana Field on Oct. 7 in St. Petersburg.

Tropicana Field lost its roof when Hurricane Milton’s winds tore through the fiberglass panels in October 2024. The storm ripped apart 18 of the ballpark’s 24 fabric panels, exposing the field to heavy rainfall. Repairs are estimated at $55.7 million, and the Rays played their entire 2025 season at Steinbrenner Field in Tampa. The team expects to return to the Trop for the 2026 season with a new, thicker roof material. In March, the Tampa Bay Rays pulled out of plans to build a new $1.3 billion ballpark adjacent to Tropicana Field, citing Hurricane Milton damage and construction delays that drove up costs. The cancellation ended years of effort to redevelop the Historic Gas Plant District, a historically Black neighborhood razed for the original stadium. The deal’s collapse ultimately led to the sale of the franchise. Jacksonville developer Patrick Zalupski led an ownership group that purchased the Rays from Stuart Sternberg for $1.7 billion in September. The new owners pledged to find a permanent stadium location in the Tampa Bay area by 2029, exploring sites near Steinbrenner Field and in Ybor City. They envision a mixed-use development on roughly 100 acres modeled after the Atlanta Braves’ Battery complex.

$6.8B Gas Plant redevelopment proposed

A development team led by tech investor Cathie Wood’s ARK Invest, developer Casey

Ellison and Horus Construction submitted an unsolicited $6.8 billion proposal to transform 95.5 acres of the Historic Gas Plant District. The 17-year project envisions housing, cultural institutions, innovation hubs and space for a potential Rays ballpark, including a new Woodson African American Museum and extensive green space.

Street murals removed under state order

St. Petersburg removed five street murals in August and September, including the Progressive Pride rainbow crosswalk at Central Avenue and 25th Street and the Black History Matters mural outside the Woodson African American Museum. The city complied with a state directive to avoid losing millions in transportation funding. Mayor Ken Welch pushed back but said fighting it would jeopardize essential funding for hurricane recovery.

Obama Library reopens after four years

The President Barack Obama Main Library reopened Sept. 27 after a renovation plagued by delays and asbestos problems. The modernized 44,000-squarefoot facility now holds 80,000 books and features a media center, auditorium and dedicated spaces for children and teens. New amenities include a cafe, bookstore and STEAM workshop space.

Science Center saved from sewage storage

City Council voted 8-0 in September to save the shuttered Science Center from becoming a wastewater storage site. Mayor Ken Welch reversed his proposal after the unanimous vote. The sale will proceed for $1.6 million to create a STEAM education center with an artificial intelligence focus, backed by $16 million in pledged support. The facility, which closed in 2014, served generations of Pinellas County schoolchildren.

Holocaust Museum reopens with major upgrades

The Florida Holocaust Museum reopened with enhanced exhibitions, including a giant rescue boat and artifacts from Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel. The upgrades provide expanded educational programming for students and visitors throughout Tampa Bay.

Water bills skyrocket, spark crisis

Residents continued receiving water bills for thousands of dollars — sometimes 10 times their normal amount —

prompting City Council to hire a $125,000 outside consultant to investigate the billing department. Between July 2024 and April 2025, the city adjusted more than 12,000 bills. The crisis, linked to hurricane-damaged meters and an antiquated billing system called NaviLine, led council members to prevent shutoffs and create new procedures for disputing charges. The city plans to replace the system with new software in mid-2026.

Food Network star coming to downtown

Celebrity chef Geoffrey Zakarian announced his first new restaurant in nearly a decade will open at The Central development in the EDGE District. The “Chopped” judge will manage the flagship restaurant at the Central Hotel, along with a rooftop pool bar and jazz lounge. The project is expected to open in 2027.

Beatles Museum coming to town

The Beatles museum announced plans to move to St. Petersburg, calling it “the sweet spot” for showcasing its collection. The relocation brings another cultural attraction to a city already known for its thriving arts scene, joining the Dalí Museum, Museum of Fine Arts and Chihuly Collection.

Ferg’s named nation’s best sports bar

USA Today named the iconic St. Petersburg sports bar the best local sports bar in America. The recognition cements Ferg’s reputation as a cornerstone of the city’s sports culture, particularly for Rays fans who have gathered there for years.

Restaurant scene sees major changes

Sprouts Farmers Market opens its first St. Pete location in November, anchoring the $800 million Sky Town development. New restaurants including Savoir wine bar, The Violet Stone’s expanded location and Blu Halo opened their doors. But the beloved Datz restaurant closed its final downtown location in October, ending a 16-year run known for inventive comfort food featured on the Food Network.

Downtown development boom accelerates

A new 540-space parking garage opened in the EDGE District. The $59 million Bernie McCabe Second District Court of Appeal Courthouse neared completion near City Hall. Major projects including the Cordova Inn expansion and Orlando Health’s Institute Square continued transforming the downtown skyline.

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St. Pete Beach

Storms tested city’s resilience The commission’s direction includes: • Pausing consideration of changes to permitted hours, with many residents indicating 10 p.m. remains an acceptable cutoff for amplified sound. • Developing targeted enforcement strategies for “problem properties,” including enhanced monitoring during late-night and weekend hours. • Partnering with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office for special deployments during peak complaint periods. • Reviewing whether the city’s nuisance ordinance conflicts with noise ordinance enforcement.

By MARK SCHANTZ

TBN Correspondent

Last year, Hurricane Helene soaked St. Pete Beach with a storm surge exceeding 6 feet that flooded homes, destroyed businesses and devastated tourist resorts. The historic Don CeSar hotel experienced devastating damage to its first floor, which houses electrical and mechanical systems. The hotel reopened in April after extensive renovations. Many residents could not return to their homes, and businesses struggled to reopen amid sparse customer traffic. By summer, after extensive rebuilding, the community began returning to a new semblance of normalcy and tourists started trickling back to the beach.

City selects replacement commissioner

Beach Theatre reopens after major renovation

The 85-year-old Beach Theatre reopened July 18 after a major renovation following 13 years of damage, decay and hurricane impacts. Hurricanes Helene and Milton left 6 feet of water flowing through the theatre. The theatre has been completely renovated with 175 new seats and a backstage area with dressing rooms. Major restoration included a new roof and stage with a custom-designed screen, updated electrical and plumbing systems, upgraded audio-visual equipment and projection room, and a newly designed lobby, concessions area and cabaret area. The historic venue, now under ownership of the Hockman family, has been transformed into a multi-use space for films, live theatre and concerts.

Strong leadership through crisis

City Manager Fran Robustelli received praise from city commissioners for her strong, knowledgeable and calm demeanor in handling multiple hurricanes and an “internal storm” caused by organizational challenges. She helped the city and staff navigate FEMA substantial damage inspection issues and a stressed building permit process. “You did a great job getting us through the hurricanes,” Commissioner Lisa Robinson told Robustelli during her review. “I greatly appreciate that, especially without having processes in place.” As the year progressed, unresolved issues from previous administrations emerged, presenting challenges that suddenly demanded attention.

City learns it violated wastewater standards

In September, commissioners learned saltwater seeping into crumbling sewer pipes put St. Pete Beach in violation of its sewage treatment contract with St. Petersburg, with chloride levels now four times higher than allowed. Commissioners were told that elevated chloride levels are hampering St. Petersburg’s ability to produce reclaimed

Photo by LUIS SANTANA/Tampa Bay Times

The newly renovated Beach Theatre is seen before its soft opening July 2 in St. Pete Beach. water at its Northwest Water Reclamation Facility, which treats wastewater from the beach community. The chloride concentrations have quadrupled since 2018 and exceeded contractual limits by 2021, according to data from St. Petersburg. High chloride levels make reclaimed water less suitable for irrigation and can corrode treatment plant equipment, increasing maintenance costs and potentially disrupting operations. St. Pete Beach is working with the city of St. Petersburg to resolve the issue. Mayor Adrian Petrila expressed frustration that the violation wasn’t brought to officials’ attention sooner by a past administration, allowing the problem to reach critical levels. Now the island must address years of neglect.

Infrastructure concerns fuel development opposition

In light of recent revelations and ongoing issues with St. Pete Beach’s aging sewer system, commissioners throughout the year voiced concern about the system’s ability to handle new development and questioned its capacity and functionality. Commissioners were told past administrations put off sewer system repairs for years. A previous study showed 62% of the system needed repair, of which only a third was completed. Some suggested the need for a development moratorium. Commissioner Lisa Robinson questioned the city’s preparedness for development. “Focus on functionality,” Robinson said. “We’re at a situation now where it’s not about physical capacity; it’s about functionality and what can the city handle from a functionality standpoint for all this development.” However, while the city may want to consider a building

moratorium, it may not be that easy. Under new state restrictions, local governments are barred from imposing temporary bans on construction, reconstruction or redevelopment following a hurricane. The law also bars municipalities from adopting amendments to comprehensive plans or land development regulations that are more restrictive or burdensome than existing rules. Florida passed Senate Bill 180 in 2025, which prohibits municipalities from enacting building moratoriums and other restrictive land development regulations for a period of time following a federal hurricane disaster declaration. The law applies statewide through Oct. 1, 2027, and was retroactively applied to August 2024, affecting all counties in the state, even those not directly hit by a storm. This action has led to a lawsuit from more than two dozen cities and counties that argue the law infringes on local decision-making authority and favors developers.

City reverses course on noise ordinance

In late summer, city commissioners shelved proposed changes to the noise ordinance after strong opposition from restaurant staff, musicians and residents who said proposed restrictions would threaten livelihoods and the city’s nightlife character. The proposed revisions, which commissioners said were in the planning and discussion phase, would have imposed code enforcement fines for amplified music audible 5 decibels above background noise between 7 p.m. and 7 a.m. It would be a significant change from the current ordinance that prohibits most amplified music between 10 p.m. and 7 a.m. Planning staff developed the proposal in response to residents living near restaurants and bars who complained

about noise from those establishments. After the meeting, the city issued a news release stating that no immediate changes

would be made to the noise ordinance. Instead, commissioners directed staff to strengthen enforcement of existing regulations.

In June, Commissioner Joe Mulholland, who was reelected in March for a twoyear term serving District 4 in Pass-a-Grille, informed the commission of his intention to resign. After debate, city commissioners selected Jon Maldonado to fill the vacant District 4 seat. Maldonado, a former law enforcement agent, told commissioners his goal is “to preserve and protect our beach community and way of life” through collaboration with city and county officials based on District 4 resident input.

elcome Back

Treasure Island

A year of slow recovery By MARK SCHANTZ

TBN Correspondent

Treasure Island and other Pinellas beaches suffered a one-two punch last fall from a pair of hurricanes that caused devastating damages. Hurricane Helene passed just offshore on Sept. 27, 2024, causing record storm surge of more than 7 feet that flooded and even demolished many homes and local businesses. Two weeks later, on Oct. 9, Hurricane Milton’s winds of up to 101 mph tore off roofs, blew in windows toppled trees and downed power lines. Gulf Boulevard and other streets were blanketed with sand and debris that also littered many lawns throughout the city. Treasure Island lost its fire station and police headquarters, with emergency service workers still working out of mobile trailers, due to city official’s inability to decide on funding or how to replace the lost structures. As of October, the City Commission was awaiting plans to relocate police to a floor in City Hall and to build a replacement fire station. The

commission scuttled earlier plans to construct a Public Safety Building adjacent to City Hall, after vocal residents raised concerns about the potential high cost to build a standalone structure and the city amassing debt. Hurricanes Milton and Helene had a ruinous impact on the city’s businesses and resorts. Two of the city’s largest resorts, the Bilmar Beach Resort and Thunderbird Resort were severely impacted. At the Bilmar Beach Resort, a giant wave took out the entire first level. The Bilmar just reopened in September with the resort’s lobby, 30 first-floor guest rooms and its beach bar renovated and reopened to guests. The 68-year old Thunderbird Beach Resort sustained substantial damage to more than 80% of its property, forcing the resort to close and be redeveloped with additional rooms. Many small local restaurants and businesses have remodeled and reopened, welcoming visitors and those who survived the storm.

TBN file photo

The Thunderbird Beach Resort, which was damaged during Hurricane Helene, sought approval to restore 106 units of the 68-year-old hotel.

Building permit delays

Adding to the stress caused by the storm, city residents were met with frustrating delays in getting permits to repair or rebuild their homes. Along with a log-jam of requests, residents blamed the exasperating delays on an order by former City Manager Chuck Anderson directing staff to follow FEMA insurance inspection guidelines and to wait for state inspectors’ substantial damage assessments before issuing repair permits. After extensive lobbying from residents at rancor-filled commission meetings, the city commission directed Anderson to issue permits prior to the damage assessments. In May Anderson was removed from his post after just nine months on the job. In July, City commissioners unanimously selected Charles Van Zant as interim city manager, with a strong indication the job could become permanent if he meets performance standards. Van Zant managed Keystone Heights, a city of 1,536 residents in Clay County, 25 miles north of Gainesville. Commissioners also decided to open a search for a city attorney to replace Jennifer Cowan, who opted to resign rather than having to reapply for her position. In May, Treasure Island commissioners hired Lake County Commissioner Anthony Sabatini as City Attorney, but terminated his contract after just four months in the role, citing “tardiness, absenteeism, and alleging poor legal advice.” The search is now underway for a new city attorney. Additionally, commissioners recently hired in-house engineering staff to approve building permits, while working to do away with the city’s contentious Terrain Manual.

Photo courtesy of CITY OF TREASURE ISLAND

A plan to protect the Treasure Bay seawall with riprap hit some obstacles.

Treasure Bay remains closed

In April, residents learned that the fate of Treasure Bay Golf Course remains uncertain following severe damage from hurricanes Helene and Milton. Recreation Director Cathy Hayduke told commissioners that while the city’s living shoreline project is back on track — and limited tennis and pickleball play has resumed — the facility was largely destroyed by the storms. Meanwhile, after a good cleaning by city crews and hundreds of volunteers, the island’s famous white sandy beach and several local parks, such as Rosselli Park’s John Marroni Dog Park have reopened.

City outsources trash hauling

In September, commissioners unanimously approved outsourcing the city’s solid waste services to Waste Pro

Florida, with service beginning in October. The move is expected to save residents about $9.55 monthly, or approximately $115 annually. Public Works Director Gary Volenec said the city decided to explore outsourcing “to determine if cost savings could be realized, while still providing the same level of service that citizens and commercial interests have grown to expect.” The city chose Waste Pro because the company already provides residential recycling services to Treasure Island. The overall residential rate will be $14.72 monthly for typical customers, covering twice-weekly trash pickup, weekly recycling pickup, collection of up to two cubic yards of garden waste per day, and quarterly household bulk waste pickup. Commercial fees will also be lower than current city rates, with businesses experiencing

a 37% decrease in monthly bills. Additional savings are available for customers with reduced service requirements, and larger container options will be offered. Public Works officials said Waste Pro will interview and hire current Treasure Island solid waste employees at the same or higher wage rates, though employees must pass background checks. Many of those city employees were praised for being part of city crews that helped clean the island of tons of debris after the hurricane.

Sanding Ovations to return

The city’s popular beach-sculpture event, Sanding Ovations, will return after a year’s hiatus on Nov. 2023, with a second weekend planned on Nov. 29-30. The event will include a beach food court, beer garden, an arts and crafts marketplace, and music concerts.

Welcome Back 2025

elcome Back

Redingtons/Indian Shores

Town installs first female police chief for fiscal year 2025-26. That’s the same millage rate the town has had for 12 consecutive years. Council also unanimously approved the tentative $6.56 million budget. The final adoption passed on Sept. 22. The budget “provides a continued outstanding benefit package and ensures that we are competitive in the public-sector market,” Town Administrator Tina Porter said. Porter called the budget “lean,” reducing the town’s dependence on general funds after the hurricanes required a financial response of nearly $1 million. Porter warned the town to guard against using reserves to meet future emergency needs and to maintain town infrastructure. The town’s property tax assessed value is expected to increase 5.17%, Porter said.

By JEANNIE CARLSON

TBN Correspondent

INDIAN SHORES —Town highlights in the spring and summer included incumbents returning to office, Police Chief Rick Swann’s retirement, new Chief Lee Ann Holroyd getting sworn in, the passing of a lean budget due to hurricane costs and beach renourishment. Swann retired from the Indian Shores Police Department on June 30 after submitting his letter of voluntary retirement on March 30 to both Indian Shores and Redington Shores. Swann was hired as chief in March 2019 during a chaotic time when unexpected resignations within the department had brought the former chief of police, E.D. Williams, out of retirement to fill in twice. Swann righted the ship and morale within the department rose as Swann filled the ranks with quality officers, increased training, upgraded equipment, and consistently recognized outstanding job performance within the ranks. Originally, Swann had planned to retire in May 2024, “but due to multiple internal and external staffing issues, I was asked to postpone doing so.” Again, Swann stepped up to do what was best for the towns, which included providing leadership during the devastating hurricanes of the 2024 season. Right before the 2024 hurricane season, Swann hired Holroyd as his second in command. “She hit the ground running and has played a significant role in continuing to bring about positive change within the police department,” said Swann. Coming aboard with the

Beach renourishment

Photo by JEANNIE CARLSON/TBN

From left are retired Indian Shores Police Chief Richard Swann, newly installed Chief Lee Ann Holroyd, Indian Shores Mayor Diantha Schear and Capt. Daniel Doherty. rank of captain, Holroyd previously had a successful 42-year career with the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office where she retired as a major. She served in many law enforcement capacities, and worked in narcotics, special operations, school resource and patrol. The formal changing of the guard took place on July 8 with the pinning ceremony of the police chief’s badge and bars, making Holroyd the first woman to become chief of police in the 61 years the Indian

Shores Police Department has been around. Capt. Daniel Doherty, Holroyd’s new second-in-command, received his pinning ceremony directly after Holroyd’s. Doherty’s law enforcement career began in Corrections with the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office over 38 years ago. Then, Doherty went on to work in patrol, narcotics, community policing, a field-training unit and eventually became the field training coordinator, training nearly 300 recruits in

a 3-year period.

Elections

At the March 11 election, incumbents Nicholas Menchise and Mark Housman were reelected to their seats on the Town Council. Challenger Robert “Bo” Bauman was defeated in the election with just under 25% of ballots cast, or 71 votes. Menchise received 42%, or 121 votes, and Housman received 33%, or 94 votes. Council member Ellen Bauer was reelected internally by the

council to serve as vice mayor for another term. When it came time to prepare the town’s 2025-26 budget, the financial impact of the 2024 storms was top of mind. The council unanimously approved the budget 4-0 at its Sept. 10 meeting, with council member Nicholas Menchise absent. The council adopted a tentative property tax rate of 1.87 mills per $1,000 of assessed valuation of the town’s total assessed value of $1.71 billion

Indian Shores has the distinction of being the first municipality among the barrier islands to receive and have beach renourishment completed post hurricanes Debbie, Helene and Milton. Beach cleanup was completed quickly in preparation for the beach renourishment process, making the town the first local municipality to be ready to receive the new sand. The process was completed in one month, with the work being completed at the rate of 1,000 feet of sand added daily. Said Mayor Diantha Schear: “We were the first beach town to complete beach renourishment. (Our) town and beaches are beautiful with businesses open and things back in order after the devastation of the storms.”

Town welcomes new mayor, commissioners By JEANNIE CARLSON

TBN Correspondent

NORTH REDINGTON BEACH — The biggest changes so far this year locally are those involving the Town Commission. Other updates include a planned dedication of Bill Queen Park, overnight parking limitations and a groundbreaking for the Redington Beaches EMS Station-Public Works Building. Queen, the town’s mayor for 20 years, resigned Feb. 18 and moved to Seminole. Vice Mayor Kevin Kennedy served as acting mayor until the new mayor, Jay Super, was sworn in March 13. An ordinance renaming Gulf Park to Bill Queen Park was passed Feb. 13. The park reopened in September after post-storm restoration. The park dedication is scheduled for Wednesday, Nov. 12, at 5:30 p.m., honoring Queen’s 25 years of service to the town. Queen served on the town’s Planning & Zoning Board beginning in 2001, and he became a commissioner in 2004 and mayor in 2005. Seat 1 Commissioner Richard Bennett and Seat 2 Commissioner Gary Curtis also retired on March 13. Steve Bradley assumed Seat 1 and Nick Nagrabski filled Seat 2. Bennett was elected in 2003 and served 11 terms in office. Curtis was elected in 2000 and served 12 terms in office. Bennett, Curtis and Queen each have been recognized with John Land Service Awards from the Florida League of Cities for serving over 20 years in a Flori-

da municipality. Curtis received his award in 2011, Bennett received his award in 2023, and Queen received his award in June 2024. Super, Bradley and Nagrabski all ran unopposed, so no municipal election was held in town. Super and Bradley had not held an elected office previously in the town. Nagrabski was on the town Planning and Zoning Board for eight years and will remain on the Gulf Beaches Library Board, where he has served the last three years. Super has been a resident of the town for the last two years and was a regular visitor for the previous 20 years. Super and his family relocated to North Redington Beach from St. Louis. Super is a longtime plumber, working in construction. Bradley is a retired dentist from Norman, Oklahoma, and has been a resident of North Redington Beach for the last six years. Nagrabski has been a permanent resident of the town since 2016, having come from the Baltimore area, where he worked for General Motors for 46 years. Queen recruited the three commission newcomers. Then in October, Bradley sold his home in North Redington Beach and resigned his Seat 1. The town was searching for a person to serve the remainder of Bradley’s term. Among the top recent actions by the commission, on July 10 commissioners unanimously approved an ordinance prohibiting overnight parking of construction vehicles and construction equipment on local streets.

Photo by JEANNIE CARLSON/TBN

Eryn Russell, membership programs specialist of the Florida League of Cities, presents North Redington Beach Mayor Bill Queen with the John Land Award for serving 20 years as an elected official. Queen, the town’s mayor for 20 years, resigned Feb. 18.

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Madeira Beach

Manager ousted amid turmoil Tampa Bay Newspapers MADEIRA BEACH — City Manager Robin Gomez’s threeyear tenure ended abruptly in August when residents and commissioners turned a routine workshop into a public reckoning over his leadership following Hurricane Helene. The Aug. 21 meeting drew a crowd to City Hall, where speaker after speaker accused Gomez of dismissing community concerns, stalling critical projects and providing misleading information about recovery efforts. “I loved you like a brother,” former mayor John Hendricks told Gomez. Gomez “I don’t know what happened, but you’re not the Robin Gomez I used to know.” Mayor Anne-Marie Brooks, who had championed Gomez’s hiring in 2021, cited “lack of leadership and accountability” as she called for his removal. Facing a certain termination vote, Gomez offered to resign. The commission accepted his departure Sept. 10, and Fire Chief Clint Belk stepped in as acting city manager. The upheaval came as the barrier island community of 4,000 residents continued rebuilding from the Sept. 26, 2024, hurricane that brought unprecedented storm surge to Pinellas County’s coast.

TBN Graphic/Google Earth

This 4.6-acre site is one of the first properties motorists see when crossing the Tom Stuart Causeway entering Madeira Beach. Commissioners say owning the property would provide a home for Public Works but also present plenty of commercial opportunities.

$18M land deal

In October, commissioners unanimously approved buying a 4.6-acre waterfront parcel for $18 million — well below two appraisals that valued the property at $21 million and $27.5 million. The city plans to relocate its public works facility to the site at 555 150th Ave., easing congestion at the city marina. Officials said the purchase also gives the city control over development at a key entrance to the community and could generate future revenue through commercial development. Finance Director Andrew Laflin said the city will pay cash using existing reserves, which total between $37 million and $40 million. The Oct. 1 vote set an Oct. 22 closing date.

Beach fortifications complete

The city completed a $3.8 million project in June to restore 22 concrete groins that trap sand along the beach. The structures, some dating

Members and visitors attend Gulf Beach Lodge’s return to the Temple on Sept. 4.

sand renourishment, the groins eliminate that need.

2025. The city could potentially lose the grant if work isn’t completed by the end of the year. The sand buildup has created a dangerous beach where unsuspecting tourists wade into fast-moving currents. It’s also blocked boat access for waterfront businesses and clogged storm drains. Capt. Dylan Hubbard of Hubbard’s Marina told commissioners Gomez repeatedly claimed the city was waiting on federal permits — only for Hubbard to learn no application had been filed.

Less successful has been a long-awaited effort to remove sand from John’s Pass, the historic inlet between Madeira Beach and Treasure Island. Despite receiving $1.5 million in state funding in 2022, the project remained mired in permitting delays through

In early September, Gulf Beach Masonic Lodge celebrated its return after Hurricane Helene left 4 feet of water on the first floor of its Marguerite Drive temple. Members spent nearly a year fundraising and rebuilding, hosting Jeep shows and selling

Photo courtesy of the CITY OF MADEIRA BEACH

The beach groins at Madeira Beach run from the property lines, across the beach, and into the water. Pictured is one of the 22 newly restored groins, which provide erosion control and help build up sand on the beach. to the 1950s, were deteriorating and needed reinforcement with aluminum casing and fresh concrete. The restored groins should keep sand in place for 50 years, officials said. The project, funded partly by a $1.75 million state grant, makes Madeira Beach unique among Pinellas beaches. Unlike neighboring communities that spend millions on periodic

Dredging project

Lodge reopens

T-shirts to reach their goal. Volunteers from across Florida’s Masonic lodges helped hang drywall and paint. The Sept. 4 reopening drew 47 members and visitors for an emotional homecoming.

Permits still pending

Six months after Helene, many residents remain in limbo waiting for building permits. City officials have tried to speed the process, but FEMA requirements have created bureaucratic delays. Despite the challenges, tourism has rebounded. The city reported strong spring break turnout, and major events like the seafood festival drew healthy crowds.

City leadership

Three members of the City Commission were restored to their seats without opposition in March.

Residents celebrated the swearing-in of the mayor and two commissioners, along with the selection of a vice mayor at the March 12 regular commission meeting. Mayor Anne-Marie Brooks automatically stepped into her mayoral position in June, when she was vice mayor and Mayor Jim Rostek suddenly resigned. With this election, she began a full three-year term as mayor. When Brooks transitioned to mayor, she vacated the District 4 commission seat, prompting the city to solicit applicants for the opening. That resulted in the naming of Housh Ghovaee to complete Brooks’ term in the district seat. Now, Ghovaee has been elected to a full two-year term. District 3 Commissioner Eddie McGeehen, first elected two years ago, is now reelected to another term.

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Welcome Back 2025

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Dunedin

A year of recovery & growth Tampa Bay Newspapers Returning snowbirds will find a Dunedin still rebuilding from last fall’s devastating hurricanes — but also moving forward with ambitious plans for housing, historic preservation and community facilities. The most visible sign of hurricane recovery comes at the City Marina, where commissioners approved a $3 million contract in July to rebuild the seawall devastated by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. The storms collapsed a large section of the eastern seawall, damaged the northern wall and destroyed the pier and day docks. Electrical pedestals were knocked over, docks were damaged and debris scattered throughout the basin. Construction began in late summer with completion expected in early 2026. The marina has reopened to slip holders in stages, though the boat ramp remains closed during major repairs. The contract with BDI Marine Contractors of Hobe Sound came in under the city’s $3.5 million estimate, drawing praise from commissioners.

Affordable housing

Commissioners unanimously approved The Flats on Main Street in June — a controversial 78-unit affordable housing development on a 3.5acre wooded lot at 1422 Carnation Drive that drew fierce opposition from neighboring residents concerned about the three-story project’s impact on their community. Officials acknowledged they had little choice: It’s the only available site in the city suitable for affordable housing, and the city has built fewer than 60 affordable units in the previous five years. The developer agreed to prepare the site for a 100-year storm event — four times what city ordinance requires — and staff requested an independent review of the

Photo courtesy of the CITY OF DUNEDIN

Motorists on Skinner Boulevard will see something new. The road reopened in September with two new roundabouts. project’s traffic impact analysis. Commissioner Tom Dugard noted the city’s struggles to house middle- and lower-income residents who work in Dunedin.

Preservation ordinances

In August, a controversial historic preservation ordinance won by a 4-1 vote, despite concerns from residents and planning officials that future city managers could abuse new powers to designate historic districts without property owner approval. The ordinance allows such designations in cases where failing to act “would result in irreparable harm to the character of the city.” Commissioners added a requirement that any city manager must announce such intentions at a public meeting before taking action. The ordinance requires 100% approval from property owners in proposed historic districts under normal circumstances. A second and final vote was scheduled for September. The city had eliminated its previous historic preservation program in 2010 after not a single

property owner voluntarily participated.

Film fest

The Dunedin International Film Festival represented the city at the 78th Cannes Film Festival in May, with six board members traveling to the Côte d’Azur to showcase the Florida-based festival alongside the world’s premier cinema event. The delegation spent a week on the French Riviera representing not just the thriving local festival but the creative spirit of independent cinema. The appearance marked a significant milestone for the festival, which has grown into a major cultural event in downtown Dunedin each January.

Boat Club

Commissioners approved plans in early September to rebuild the Dunedin Boat Club and Sailing Center on its original site at 49 Marina Plaza after the historic structure was destroyed by hurricanes and demolished in May. The club, founded in 1929, will be reconstructed over three to four years through

private fundraising. The city is contributing $100,000 for restrooms. The Pinellas Community Foundation will hold, manage and disburse funds for the project, similar to the successful approach used for Gladys Douglas Park. The new multi-use, cityowned facility will house the Dunedin Youth Sailing Association, Dunedin Windlasses and Dunedin Boat Club. The design will mirror the former clubhouse but feature an open ground level for water views. Members built the original clubhouse with their own hands starting in 1936.

Skinner Boulevard roundabouts

Skinner Boulevard reopened in September with two new single-lane roundabouts at Highland and Douglas avenues, part of a Florida Department of Transportation improvement project that began last fall. The $3 million project is designed to enhance safety and improve traffic flow from Main Street/Bass Boulevard to Broadway. According to FDOT, roundabouts decrease

traffic delays by about 20% and reduce fatalities and serious injuries by about 80%. The speed limit on the corridor has been set at 25 mph. Planned features include bike lanes, bus bays and a multipurpose path connecting to the Pinellas Trail. Full completion is expected in spring 2026.

Skate Park repairs

Commissioners approved $99,000 in July to repair and reopen the Stirling Skate Park at the Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center at 550 Laura Lane. The park, built in 2007, had been closed due to concrete spalling — chipping and peeling — around the rim of its large bowl, the main attraction for skateboarders and scooter enthusiasts. The commission awarded the contract to Timm Group Stucco Inc., the same company that installed the city’s pickleball courts. Finding qualified contractors proved challenging, with staff contacting multiple concrete and pool contractors but receiving few responses. Officials expressed confidence that usage will rebound once the

popular “old school style” bowl with its larger pools reopens.

Water bills

Commissioners unanimously approved a 15% water and sewer rate increase in May, effective in October, after expressing concerns about the impact on residents but agreeing that utility operations needed financial support to avoid infrastructure failures. The typical monthly bill for users of 4,000 gallons will rise from $80.21 to $92.24 in fiscal 2026. Officials cited aging infrastructure — some dating to the 1950s — and operational costs for chemicals, materials, supplies and labor that have jumped 26% since 2019. Mayor Moe Freaney recalled arriving in Dunedin in the early 1990s when poor water quality caused rust in dishwashers and clothes. “I never want to be in the position of what I saw in the early ’90s,” she said. Commissioner Jeff Gow warned that cities that try to maintain water systems “on the cheap” end up on national news when things go wrong.

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Tarpon Springs

City moves forward on projects The City Commission is scheduled to make its final decision at an Oct. 28 hearing. Commissioners initially adopted a sunset provision after some Sponge Docks merchants objected, fearing the vendors would take business from brick-and-mortar establishments. Planning Supervisor Patricia McNeese said only one food truck currently operates under the new ordinance: The Friendly Greek at the Spartan gas station at Pinellas and Tarpon avenues. One applicant has expressed interest in placing a food truck at the Sponge Docks but hasn’t moved forward, McNeese said.

By MARK SCHANTZ

TBN Correspondent

Tarpon Springs has largely returned to normal after hurricanes Helene and Milton battered the city in September and October of 2024. Helene dumped up to 36 inches of water in some areas, flooding businesses and homes, particularly at the Sponge Docks and in coastal neighborhoods. Milton’s 100 mph winds caused widespread damage, toppling trees, blocking streets and damaging roofs and structures throughout the city. After weathering one of the worst storms in its history, the city rebounded quickly and experienced significant changes in leadership. City Manager Mark LeCouris retired in January after 47 years with the city. LeCouris rose through the police department ranks to become the city’s top administrator. Five months later, Charles Rudd, city manager of Crescent City, Florida, and former economic development director in New Port Richey, was chosen as Tarpon Springs’ first new city manager in 16 years. Commissioner John Koulianos became mayor in April in an uncontested race, promising to “bring common sense back to government,” pursue economic development and address the city’s aging infrastructure. An avid marathon runner, Koulianos gained government experience on Tarpon Springs’ planning and zoning board and police pension board. His brother, Tom Koulianos, was elected mayor 35 years ago, making them the only brothers to serve in the city’s top elected post. Commissioner Michael Eisner also was elected to a second commission term.

Whatever happened to former mayor?

Photo by JEFF ROSENFIELD/TBN

Tarpon Springs and Morgan Group officials participated in the groundbreaking ceremony for the Caroline Anclote Harbor 404-unit apartment complex on U.S. 19 on April 17.

Contentious development resolved

After more than six years of contentious public hearings and litigation, groundbreaking occurred in April on Caroline Anclote Harbor, a 60-acre, 400-unit development north of Tarpon Avenue on the Anclote River. Over more than a decade, environmentalists first tried to stop Walmart from building a superstore on the property, then fought to prevent another developer from constructing a housing complex. City officials welcomed Caroline Anclote Harbor and the potential new residents it would bring.

Marine Commerce Committee revived City commissioners unan-

imously voted to revive the Marine Commerce Committee, which initially met several years ago to secure river dredging funds from the county. Commissioners agreed the committee needs revamping to tackle waterfront and maritime issues that have arisen since then. The city is seeking members interested in the city’s rivers, canals, marinas, beaches, marine life and environment.

Golf course to get new $4.1 million clubhouse

City commissioners unanimously approved plans for a new $4.1 million clubhouse and expanded parking lot at Tarpon Springs Municipal

Golf Course. Public Services Director Thomas Kiger said all improvements would be self-funded by the Golf Course Enterprise Fund. “The goal is to fully self-fund the new clubhouse utilizing a 10-year construction loan and $500,000 in cash funding, with construction starting in fiscal year 2026” and completed in 2027, Kiger said. Course officials expect a 3% revenue increase from new clubhouse operations starting in 2027.

Residents approve dredge spoil site

Residents approved a referendum in the November 2024 election for the city to purchase a 14.28-acre spoil site for $5.2 million. The vote mandated the purchase of the vacant property on L&R Industrial Boulevard

near the Anclote River for use in future river dredging projects. Despite the city commission’s hesitations about the price, the purchase was subsequently approved to honor voters’ wishes. The purchase will be funded with a 10-year loan.

Food trucks could be permanently allowed in most areas Food trucks could become a permanent fixture in Tarpon Springs by late October. The planning and zoning board unanimously recommended in September that city commissioners eliminate a sunset provision and allow the traveling eateries to operate year-round in designated areas.

Former Mayor Costa Vatikiotis surprised everyone in late summer 2024 by resigning from office and remaining out of the spotlight. Then in late September, he revealed on Facebook that he has written a novel titled “In The Glow of the Fireships: A Hidden Legacy.” “After a year of being out of publicity, it was completed, a project that took priority over all the others. It will be available after the first of the year,” he wrote. The book uncovers a legacy spanning oceans and centuries — from naval heroes of the Greek Revolution of 1821 to the sponge fishermen of Tarpon Springs. “At the heart of the story are the elite fireship sailors, Greek islanders who risked their lives by setting their small ships ablaze and steering them into the Ottoman fleet. Feared more than any warship, these men embodied a fierce devotion to freedom,” Vatikiotis wrote. “A century later, the namesakes of these fireship sailors arrived on the shores of Florida, transforming a sleepy Gulf Coast town into the sponge diving capital of the world.”

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Safety Harbor/Palm Harbor/Oldsmar

Waterfront comes back to life Tampa Bay Newspapers For many, the waterfront and its amenities are the most popular attractions of several North Pinellas communities. Some of those structures took a beating last year during hurricanes Helene and Milton. Popular piers in Safety Harbor, Crystal Beach and Oldsmar were all destroyed by the storms. But residents and cities wasted no time in reviving them. In Safety Harbor, the beloved waterfront is undergoing dramatic transformation. The work includes reconstruction of the pier and marina, the living shoreline, replacement of park bollards, and improvements to the adjacent Safety Harbor Resort and Spa private parking lot. The centerpiece of the overhaul is reconstruction of the pier and marina, a project that has been in the works since 2022. The ambitious project carries an estimated 18-month timeline, targeting completion by Dec. 29, 2026. Residents of Crystal Beach didn’t have to wait so long for the return of their beloved 265foot pier, which was rebuilt and reopened in mid-September. The nonprofit organization, Crystal Beach Community Enrichment, helped raise funds to restore the 80-plus-year-old pier. In Oldsmar, the pier at R.E. Olds Park was partially opened in July, while the city works on a reconstruction project.

SAFETY HARBOR A new chapter for the library

The community gathered in April to celebrate the renovation of the Safety Harbor Public Library. The Second Street North facility has been a beloved fixture of the downtown district since it was constructed in 1994. So, it was no sur-

the potential for a residential community,” said Terry Fortner, a volunteer with the Palm Harbor Museum. “They advocated to change the name. In the 1920s, this was being done all over Florida to increase the cache and attract investors.” In 1920, only about 500 lived in the residential area of Sutherland, she said.

OLDSMAR Downtown development

Tampa Bay Times file photo

Onlookers view the wreckage of Safety Harbor pier on Sept. 27, 2024. The city is in the process of rebuilding its waterfront, which includes reconstruction of the pier and marina. prise that when the time finally came to dedicate the library’s long-awaited second floor, a large and enthusiastic crowd gathered in the shadow of the new addition. The second floor features conference rooms, office space and the only elevator in a city building.

Good news for foodies The city’s food scene has been thriving for years and it shows no signs of slowing. This summer, The Tides Seafood Market & Provisions was honored with a prestigious recommendation in the 2025 Michelin Guide. The milestone for the family-owned establishment highlights its dedication to fresh seafood, all-natural meats, local produce, and a unique dining experience that has evolved organically from its market beginnings. Owners Mary Kate and Jon Walker partner with fishermen, farmers, and makers, bringing the best of the Gulf Coast together with thoughtfully chosen regional

and national products. A Spanish tapas bar is also on its way to the city. The owners, Christina Sanchez Miller and Michael Miller, plan to open the restaurant at 246 Second St. N., which has been vacant since its previous life as Harbour House by Mirana Interiors, a design and retail furniture shop. The couple’s plan for the restaurant goes beyond food and drink, as they envision creating a cultural hub. “We want to do painting with wine, we want to do Flamenco shows, things that are Spanish-oriented activities,” said Sanchez Miller, whose family is from Spain. A familiar spot is also growing. Troubled Waters Brewing, a fixture on Main Street since its opening in 2018, is hoping to expand its operation. The expansion centers on integrating the vacant, adjacent storefront at 690 Main St. into the brewery’s

operations. This addition will boost Troubled Waters’ interior space by 2,200 square feet, complementing its current 1,980 square feet and 300-square-foot patio. The expanded interior will allow for the relocation and enlargement of brewing equipment and the potential inclusion of a micro-distillery, enabling the production of spirits.

PALM HARBOR A new home for FEAST

For many years, FEAST food pantry officials and volunteers fed thousands of families annually out of an aging, tiny trailer located on the grounds of Grace Community Church at 2255 Tampa Road. But thanks to a collaborative effort between several public and private entities FEAST, or the Food Emergency and Services Team, which was founded in 1989, now has a spacious new place to call home.

On April 7, dozens of supporters of the Palm Harbor nonprofit gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the 3,000-square-foot headquarters, a modular building designed to withstand Category 5 hurricane force winds that sits in the same space as the old trailer it replaced and represents a fresh start for the FEAST team.

A historic occasion

Palm Harbor turned 100 this past summer and the area marked the milestone with a week of events to celebrate its centennial. Formerly named “Sutherland,” the community’s official name changed to Palm Harbor on July 15, 1925, largely due to persuasion from the Coleman brothers — A.B. and J.H. The duo arrived from Toronto in 1920 with the intent to develop Sutherland. “The name changed to Palm Harbor because the Coleman Brothers perceived

After five years of discussions, planning and more discussions, city and county officials as well as several Oldsmar residents gathered outside the Oldsmar Public Library on a humid evening May 6 for the groundbreaking ceremony for a mixed-use project that will be built on the St. Petersburg Drive site. The Odeon Square development is set to be constructed on six acres of land adjacent to the library. When completed, it will provide housing, workspace and green space for hundreds of new residents and workers in a project that provides “an opportunity to bring new life, new energy and new residents to our city in a way that complements the character of Oldsmar,” Mayor Katie Gannon said. Other areas of downtown are still in limbo, however. The Stanbery Development Group presented a revised plan for its downtown development to the City Council on Sept. 16. The new proposal, a significant departure from the developer’s highly ranked 2024 submission, was met with mixed reactions from residents and council members who expressed frustration with the scaled-back design. The meeting concluded without a formal motion, but with a consensus to continue negotiations, urging the developer to reconsider elements of their previous plan.

Welcome Back 2025

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Dining & Entertainment

Photo courtesy of THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA

Michael Francis, TFO music director, hopes to take audiences on a sonic odyssey through centuries of sound with The Florida Orchestra’s 2025-2026 season.

Exploring the extraordinary The Florida Orchestra’s new season is designed for all ages & interests By LEE CLARK ZUMPE

Tampa Bay Newspapers

The Florida Orchestra’s 2025-26 season officially got underway with Richard Strauss’ massive An Alpine Symphony on Oct. 3 and 5. For the first time in 25 years, the orchestra brought together more than 100 musicians — onstage and off — to take the audience on a thrilling journey through the Alps. The season is being promoted as “an exhilarating journey that spans continents and cultures through the universal language of music.” Even before these concerts, the 58th season already saw a soft launch with a series of “September to Remember” events, including performances by Cynthia Erivo and Morgan Freeman. Season packages are on sale now at FloridaOrchestra.org. Premium curated packages are offered for the classical Hough Family Foundation Masterworks, Raymond James Pops and Morning Matinee series. For information, visit FloridaOrchestra.org, email ticketcenter@floridaorchestra.org or call 727-892-3337. Concerts are presented at several venues, including the Straz Center for the Performing Arts, 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa; the Duke Energy Center for the Arts — Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg; and Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road,

Clearwater. Michael Francis, TFO music director, has curated a blend of epic masterpieces and hidden gems for the premier Hough Family Foundation Masterworks series. Francis hopes to take audiences on a sonic odyssey through centuries of sound. Highlights of the 14-program series include the triumphant joy of Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9 featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay; Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony; Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7; and Bernstein’s Kaddish Symphony in partnership with the Florida Holocaust Museum and poignantly narrated by the family of Holocaust survivor Samuel Pisar. Making her TFO debut is pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason — of the famed family of musical siblings — for Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3, while TFO favorite Maximilian Hornung returns for Shostakovich’s Cello Concerto No. 1. “This season, I invite you to join us for an uplifting journey through all 14 Masterworks concerts,” said Francis, who is entering his 11th season. “Each concert provides exceptional moments to explore and create a deep connection to the world we live in. Whether through timeless classics like Beethoven or bold new voices such as the U.S. premiere of a trombone concerto, we’ll explore the extraordinary together. All driven by the passion of your remarkable Florida

Photo by MIRIAM BULCHER

Chelsea Gallo, TFO resident conductor, brings fresh energy to the casual, lighthearted Morning Matinees series of concerts.

Photo by JOHANNA BERGHORN

Photo by JULIA WESLEY

Maximilian Hornung returns to The Florida Orchestra for Shostakovich’s soul-stirring Cello Concerto No. 1.

Photo courtesy of THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA

Making her TFO debut is pianist Jeneba Kanneh-Mason — of the famed family of musical siblings — for Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3.

A Little Night Music features Joseph Beverly on bass clarinet. The concerts are scheduled for Nov. 12 at Ruth Eckerd Hall; and Nov. 13 at the Mahaffey Theater.

Orchestra musicians. Come be a part of it.” For the third season, Francis has programmed surprise “mystery pieces” for select programs in the Masterworks series. He personally chooses each short work to enhance and connect to the program in a surprising way. None will be listed ahead of time. The Florida Orchestra will bring guest artists from around the world to Tampa Bay stages. Exciting soloists making their TFO debuts are Kanneh-Mason for Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 3 (May 1-3, 2026); Cleveland International Piano Competition prize winner Evren Ozel for Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21 (Jan. 9-11,

2026); Indonesian-born pianist Janice Carissa for Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2 (May 29 and 31, 2026); and rising-star American soloist Aubree Oliverson for Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1 (Feb. 21 and 22, 2026). Returning favorites include Hornung for Shostakovich’s soul-stirring Cello Concerto No. 1 (March 21 and 22, 2026); and George Li for Ravel’s Piano Concerto (Jan. 23-25, 2026). Prestigious guest conductors include internationally recognized Baroque specialist Jeannette Sorrell; chief conductor of the Gävle (Sweden) See ORCHESTRA, page 12

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Dining & Entertainment

Orchestrating a survival tactic: Musical diversity The Florida Orchestra, the state’s largest performing arts organization, banks its future on evolving demographics, younger ears & changing tastes

hen was the last time you listened to a Beethoven symphony, much less paid to hear it performed? That’s what officials with The Florida Orchestra ask themselves as they launch their 58th season and a menu of classical masterpieces. The question is, will young people buy tickets to hear the sounds of past centuries? Just as important, can orchestras keep leaning on the familiar without risking their future? The answer, say industry experts and musicians, is clear: diversity. “It’s essential that we offer a mix of the old and the new,’’ says music director Michael Francis. “Even if it’s an old masterpiece, we want it to somehow connect to today, to be part of a bigger journey. My absolute passion is to help each person connect to the music and above all, to connect to themselves.’’ Regardless of size, no ensemble can survive in today’s arts climate without a commitment to diversity and variety, both generational and in the music itself, according to national groups that monitor orchestra trends. For decades, A the premise of symphony orchestras was to keep its rich repertoire alive at all costs. The

Fine Tuned Kurt Loft

Florida Orchestra is no exception, and examples this season include Respighi’s Pines of Rome, Shostakovich’s Symphony No. 15, Rachmaninoff’s Second Piano Concerto, and Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. But as these and other works recede farther into the past, a younger generation can feel disconnected. To counter this, The Florida Orchestra offers the Billy Joel Songbook; Disco Inferno; Bugs Bunny at the Symphony; Jaws in Concert; the annual Holiday Pops; and arrangements of songs by the Doobie Brothers, Jimmy Buffett and Steely Dan. The 68-member group operates on a $16 million budget, only 40% of which comes from ticket sales, the rest from donations. The musicians perform about 100 concerts annually in St. Petersburg, Tampa, and Clearwater, including classical masterworks, lighter pops, matinee potpourris, rock concerts, free outdoor park events, and educational youth programs in the schools. “It’s great that we present music in so many styles,’’ says

trombonist Ross Holcombe. “I’ve had friends who first came to a rock show and enjoyed the experience so much that they came back and heard a Mahler symphony later the same season. If we bring excellence and energy to what we do, people will be inspired to return.’’ Innovation is part of the fabric of many of these concerts, including synchronized videos that tell a musical story with visuals. An example of the marriage of music and imagery was a recent performance of Holst’s orchestral suite The Planets — complete with a NASA video tour of the solar system projected above the stage. “Orchestras must be where tradition meets innovation,’’ said Ignacio Barrón Viela, The Florida Orchestra’s president and CEO. “We will always perform timeless masterpieces but also recognize the need to stay in tune with our evolving community and culture. With multimedia experiences and films, our concerts bring music to life in new ways for all generations.’’ The Jacksonville Symphony appeals to the city’s young demographic with an imaginative mix of classical, pop, rock and jazz, noted president and CEO Steven B. Libman: “These programs spark discovery, often

serving as the first invitation to step into Jacoby Symphony Hall. Once people are here, they return for more. We’ve seen it work in Jacksonville: younger, more diverse audiences are engaging with the orchestra, ensuring that this art form remains vibrant.’’ The Seattle Symphony follows a similar approach, featuring everything from Stravinsky to Star Wars. “Diversity of programming is absolutely vital to our longterm survival,’’ said Andrew Joslyn, associate director of popular programming. “Our mission isn’t only to preserve and perform the great symphonic works of the past, but also to meet audiences where they are today and invite them into the concert hall through different entry points.’’ At the Mann Center, where the Philadelphia Orchestra plays summer concerts, management has engaged audiences with video game programs since 2012. Each outdoor show attracts up to 6,500 people — more than double the average attendance at classical concerts. A Knight Foundation study said this approach can lead to what it calls “sustained engagement’’ — or long-term audience loyalty. And it’s making a difference across the country, according to an audience diver-

sification study by the League of American Orchestras, a non-profit advocacy group supporting more than 700 ensembles. In the last five years, the proportion of tickets purchased by Millennial buyers surged from 9 to 25%, while those purchased by Gen X rose from 20 to 31% — nearly matching the percentage of tickets bought by older Baby Boomers. But an orchestra isn’t a movie theater or video game, and Viela is wary of spoon-feeding listeners too much of the visual: “In an age of constant stimulation, we understand the value of less. Today, one of the biggest questions for children and adults is: Can we truly be present without a screen in front of us? We offer a rare space to shut out the noise of everyday life and connect with something deeper. “It’s more than a concert,’’ he added. “It’s music as a form of self-care. A chance to pause, reflect and feel something real as an essential part of our own personal health and well-being.’’ The health and well-being of these venerable arts groups also reflect positively on their communities, said Anna Kate Mackle, The Florida Orchestra’s principal harpist since 1999. “A professional orchestra like ours makes a city a desir-

able place to live,’’ she said. “Orchestras are not only treasures for their communities, but they help their cities become national destinations. A successful orchestra advertises the city and attracts people to the area.’’ Whether Bach or the Beatles is on the music stands at concerts, program diversity is key to tapping into the next generation of concertgoers. It also gives the musicians more ways to connect and explore ideas with listeners — and that’s the whole point, says principal second violinist Sarah Shellman. “For me, the purpose of art is to make us feel something,’’ she says. “This applies to all disciplines and mediums — mine just happens to be classical music. Bonus points if a work makes us think as well. Feeling and thinking are two universal human experiences and sharing those in the moment truly connects people.’’ For details on The Florida Orchestra’s new season, visit www.floridaorchestra.org Kurt Loft is a journalist and arts writer who has covered classical music for the Tampa Tribune and other publications for 45 years. He is a member of the Music Critics Association of North America.

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Dining & Entertainment

Celebrating 40 years of entertainment With a new leader at the helm, Tarpon Arts launches its landmark 40th anniversary season with a variety of planned performances By LEE CLARK ZUMPE

Tampa Bay Newspapers

TARPON SPRINGS — At the Aug. 16 kickoff party showcasing Tarpon Arts’ 40th anniversary season, it was clear that there’s a buzz in the air. Sponsored by AdventHealth North Pinellas, this landmark season brings a spectacular mix of brand new and returning fan-favorite tribute bands, community theater, opera, lectures, and holiday programming to venues across the city. The season got underway in October and will continue through July 2026. As the new season kicks into high gear, Brandon Groc is getting used to his new leadership role. Groc stepped into the role of Director of Cultural & Civic Services for the city of Tarpon Springs following the retirement of longtime Director Diane Wood on Aug. 6. “It is an incredible honor to step into the role of Director of Cultural & Civic Services” said Groc. “I am proud to build upon the strong foundation laid by Diane Wood and continue Tarpon Arts’ legacy of fostering the arts and culture that make Tarpon Springs so unique.” Groc brings over 15 years of experience in live entertainment and venue management, including more than a decade at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater, and four years as marketing operations manager for Tarpon Arts. Groc is an alumnus of St. Petersburg College and Barry University, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in public safety administration and a Master of Public Administration respectively. “While my education laid the groundwork for a career in government administration, the most formative experiences came from over a decade working at Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater,” Groc explained. “I began my career working in operations, learning the behind-thescenes logistics of event planning and was later promoted to entertainment manager in 2014. That role taught me the business side of the industry — dealing with agents, negotiating offers and managing contracts. I was very fortunate to have great mentors and to work with some of the most respected promoters in Florida. Much of it is learned by osmosis — you have to dive in and absorb everything.” Groc said that he is inspired by the strong support from Tarpon Arts patrons and members. “This is a community that deeply values the arts and takes great pride in having their own Performing Arts Center and museums,” he added. That support will no doubt help Tarpon Arts enjoy a strong 2025-2026 season and continue to flourish in the future. “Our immediate goal is to continue presenting affordable, high-quality entertainment that our patrons have come to love,” Groc said. “We are in the early stages of upgrading our production capabilities at the Performing Arts Center and Cultural Center. These improvements will allow us to host a bigger and broader range of performances in future seasons.” The anniversary season’s highlights include performances from top tribute acts at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, such as Yellow Brick Road: A Tribute to Elton John; Heart by Heart, featuring original Heart members Steve Fossen and Michael Derosier; Celebrating Celine; Bee Gees Gold; The Boss Project; Tapestry: The Carole King Songbook;

and Turnstiles, the “Ultimate Billy Joel Tribute.” Country music fans can look forward to the return of The Highwaymen Show, Ultimate Garth Brooks, and Six One Five Collective. At the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center, community theater patrons will enjoy fresh comedic titles, such as “A Little Ditty About Jacques and Diane,” “Perfect Wedding,” “Boeing, Boeing,” and “Love, or Best Offer.” Also at the Cultural Center, Flip Flop Opera is back for the fourth consecutive season with a trio of new educational performances led by Constantine Grame, New Century Opera executive and artistic director.

Tarpon Arts 2025-26 season preview

The season boasts dozens of events. The upcoming programming extends the Tarpon Arts mission, which it describes as providing quality entertainment at reasonable prices in its four venues — the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St.; the Cultural Center, 101 S. Pinellas Ave.; 1883 Safford House Museum, 23 Parkin Court; and the Heritage Museum and main ticket sales office, 100 Beekman Lane, in Craig Park. Tickets will be available online at www.TarponArts.org and at the Tarpon Arts ticket office located inside the Heritage Museum, 100 Beekman Lane, open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; or by calling 727-9425605. Visit www.TarponArts.org for a preview of this season’s shows, concerts, and special educational events. A digital brochure is also available. For a hard copy of the season brochure, please email your full name and a complete postal mailing address to info@tarponarts.org.

Up next at Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center

Heart by Heart will perform on Saturday, Nov. 8, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St., Tarpon Springs. Tickets start at $39 for adults and $36 for Tarpon Arts members. Visit tarponarts.org. Heart by Heart features founding Heart bassist Steve Fossen and original drummer Michael Derosier. Both Fossen and Derosier were inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2013 as members of Heart. Both band members were in the classic lineup that recorded a string of albums that not only put Heart on the musical map but also became everlasting classics. They played on “Dreamboat Annie,” “Magazine,” “Little Queen,” “Dog & Butterfly,” “Bebe Le Strange” and “Private Audition.” They also lent their formidable talents to the timeless singles that appeared on those albums including “Magic Man,” “Dreamboat Annie,” “Crazy on You,” “Barracuda,” “Kick It Out,” “Little Queen,” “Straight On,” “Even It Up” and “Dog & Butterfly.” Heart by Heart — which also features powerhouse vocalist Somar Macek, multi-talented guitarist/keyboardist/vocalist Lizzy Daymont and guitarist Chad Quist — honors the magic and power of the music of Heart by performing music from Heart’s 1970s and ’80s heyday. This incredible lineup considers it their responsibility to bring the songs to the stage in their original form.

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Heart by Heart is set to play the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center on Nov. 8. “We don’t see it as our task to modify or update these classic tunes that Heart fans love and have listened to all these years,” Fossen said in a press release. To date, Heart has sold over 35 million records worldwide, including over 22.5 million in

album sales in the U.S. They have had top 10 albums on the Billboard 200 in the 1970s, 1980s, 1990s, and 2010s. The group was ranked No. 57 on VH1’s 100 Greatest Artists of Hard Rock. For more information on Heart by Heart, visit www.heartbyheart.com.

Tarpon Arts calendar Several venues host Tarpon Arts events: The Tarpon Springs Cultural Center is at 101 S. Pinellas Ave. The Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum is at 100 Beekman Lane. The Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center is at 324 Pine St. The Safford House Museum is at 23 Parkin Court. • Heart by Heart, Saturday, Nov. 8, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Celebrating Celine with Jenene Caramielo, Friday, Nov. 14, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Flip Flop Opera: Swords, Sandals & Scandals; Sunday, Nov. 16, 2 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center. • Top of the World: A Carpenters Christmas; Saturday, Nov. 29, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • A Very Merry Christmas, select dates from Dec. 3-14, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the 1883 Safford House. • The Edge Effect, Sunday, Dec. 14, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Double Vision: The Foreigner Experience; Sunday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Bee Gees Gold: The Tribute; Saturday, Jan. 3, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • “Perfect Wedding,” Jan. 16-25, at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center. • The Highwaymen Show, Sunday, Jan. 18, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • The Brit Pack, Friday, Jan. 23, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Tarpon Talks: Tampa’s Black History Museum — A First; Tuesday, Jan. 27, 2 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum. • Tapestry: The Carole King Songbook; Saturday, Jan. 31, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • The Sixties Show, Sunday, Feb. 8, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Flip Flop Opera: Giuseppe Verdi’s Aida; Sunday, Feb. 15, 2 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center. • The Derina Harvey Band, Friday, Feb. 20, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Per-

forming Arts Center. • The Sensational Soul Cruisers, Friday and Saturday, Feb. 27-28, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Ultimate Garth Brooks Tribute, Saturday, March 7, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Changes in Latitudes: Jimmy Buffett Tribute; Sunday, March 15, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Andrew Duhon with Mercy McCoy, Saturday, March 21, 7 p.m., at Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Tarpon Talks — Dive Into the Mystery, Mayhem and Marvelous Art Form of Opera, Part 1; Tuesday, March 24, 2 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum. • Spinphony, Saturday, March 28, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Tarpon Talks — Dive Into the Mystery, Mayhem and Marvelous Art Form of Opera, Part 2; Tuesday, April 7, 2 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum. • “Boeing, Boeing,” April 10-19, at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center. • Here Comes the Sun: Beatles Tribute; Friday, April 17, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Forever Simon and Garfunkel, Saturday, April 25, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Turnstiles: The Ultimate Tribute to Billy Joel; Saturday, May 2, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Six One Five Collective, Friday, May 15, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • Flip Flop Opera: Damsels in Distress and the Villains that Caused the Trouble; Sunday, May 17, 2 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center. • Tarpon Talks — Through the Lens: The Art of Documentary Filmmaking; Tuesday, May 19, 2 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum. • The Boss Project, Saturday, June 13, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. • “Love … or Best Offer,” July 17-26, at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center. Dates, times, show description and performances are subject to change. For information and to purchase tickets, visit www.TarponArts.org.

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Dining & Entertainment

Fabulous food festivals Foodies can sip, sample and savor scrumptious selections at a variety of culinary celebrations scheduled in the coming months By LEE CLARK ZUMPE

Tampa Bay Newspapers

The Tampa Bay area boasts diverse and delicious cuisine, and foodies can experience a selection of succulent flavors by sampling dishes at some of the area’s fabulous food festivals. Dubbed “the hippest, most exciting, two-day food, wine, and craft beer festival on Florida’s West Coast,” Savor St. Pete is set to welcome gastronomes, wine connoisseurs and craft beer enthusiasts on Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 1 and 2, 1 to 4 p.m., at Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Drive NE, in St. Petersburg. General admission tickets are $120 a person. VIP Admission is $150 per person, which includes exclusive access to the VIP Spirits Lounge and entry at noon. Attendees will have an opportunity to enjoy delectable bites, wines, craft beers, and premium spirits, all while taking in the picturesque views of Tampa Bay. Set against the stunning backdrop of Vinoy Park, this waterfront event brings together an incredible lineup of award-winning chefs, restaurants, wine and spirit brands, and local favorites. Attendees can expect unlimited bites and sips from top culinary and beverage tastemakers. The event also includes the Savor Chef Showdown, the first-ever live culinary competition. Chefs scheduled to take part in Savor St. Pete include Brian Malarkey, “Cutthroat Kitchen” host; Carlos Anthony, “Chopped” winner; Lee Wolen, executive chef at Elliot Astor; Rachel Martin, chef at Pilgrim’s; Marco Flores, executive chef at Olé; Ethan Holmes, executive chef at Rao’s; Dave Johnston, Kinder’s pitmaster; Rosana Rivera, chef ambassador of Royal Rice; Stephen Horvat, executive chef at Coconut Charlie’s; Chris Valdes, chef at Florida Dairy Farmers; Jason Miller, executive chef at Melting Pot; Joshua Carter, executive chef at Vinoy; Lee Aquino, executive chef at Birch & Vine; Marco Grajeda, executive sous chef at Vinoy; Jonathan Rodriguez, chef at Filippo Berio; David Asher, chef at Taverna Costale; Israel Hernandez, chef at Doc Ford’s Rum Bar & Grille; David Smith, chef at The Blue Halo; and Jessica Darnell, chef at Tryst. According to Savor St. Pete’s website, festival organizers believe good food and good company should also do good. Each year, a financial donation directly supports nonprofit organizations that make a difference in our local community. “By attending the gourmet food and drink festival, you’re not just treating yourself to unforgettable flavors — you’re also helping fund programs that support healthcare and community wellness throughout the bay area.” For tickets and information, visit savortheburg.com. Following is a look at some of the other food festivals on the culinary calendar.

Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival

The Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival will run Friday through Sunday, Nov. 7-9, at the Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks, 600 Hill Street and Dodecanese Boulevard in Tarpon Springs. Festival hours will be Friday, noon to 9 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. A curated selection of local and regional small businesses will offer a treasure trove of fresh seafood, handmade nautical arts, crafts and other maritime goodies. Whether you’re a diehard seafood enthusiast, a landlubber or simply seeking a fun-filled weekend with the family, the Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival has boatloads of activities and entertainment. Best of all: Admission is free. The event will include a Stone Crab Eating Contest on Sunday at 3 p.m., sponsored by Lockhart’s Seafood. There is an entry fee for the contest, and preregistration is required. Tampa Bay’s best seafood dishes will be crowned in the third annual Master Chefs of the Sea Competition. All registered chefs will battle for bragging rights and 10 awards, including best shellfish sensation, best Florida fish dish, best “other” creation, most imaginative, most craveable and a grand champion. A panel of local food bloggers and community influencers will judge entries based on appearance, flavor, and flair.

Winners will be announced on Friday, Nov. 7 and their award-winning dishes will be available to enjoy all weekend long. In addition to the seafood competition, the festival will also feature a variety of family-friendly activities, including a little buccaneers kid’s zone, a vibrant haven of bouncy castles, face painting, and games. There will be live music, with talented local performers playing everything from peppy island beats to soulful blues and original songs. “Let’s make this the best Seafood Festival yet,” said Suzanne King, event organizer. “The 37th

annual Tarpon Springs Seafood Festival promises an unforgettable weekend of delicious food, lively entertainment and family fun. We look forward to a fun-filled event, the contests and seafood competition.” Complimentary parking and shuttle service at the Splash Park are available. Well behaved pets and their leashed humans are also welcome. For information, visit www.sikpromotions.com/applicants/fall/tarpon-springs-seafood-festival. See FOOD, page 13

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Theater, music, comedy & more Central Park Performing Arts Center kicks off season with upgrades By LEE CLARK ZUMPE

Tampa Bay Newspapers

Largo city leaders have unveiled new modern upgrades during a community open house at the Central Park Performing Arts Center. On Sept. 30, a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by key stakeholders underscored the recent improvements and renovations to the Tonne Playhouse at the center. The project was made possible by federal funding nearing $2 million from the American Rescue Plan Act, and the generous contribution of $239,000 from the Central Park Performing Arts Center Foundation. The renovations to the Tonne Playhouse include updated seating, acoustics, lighting and design enhancements that will elevate the theater experience for years to come. The updated retractable seating system can accommodate a range of event sizes, with seating capacities of 520 for stadium seating, 654 for festival-style arrangements, and 300 for cabaret seating. During the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Mayor Woody Brown, City Manager John Curp, and Performing Arts Center Manager Audrey Siegler spoke about the importance of the center as a community asset that contributes to the city’s commitment of building a vibrant and welcoming community for residents and visitors of all ages and walks of life. Located at 105 Central Park Drive in Largo, the Central Park Performing Arts Center offers a broad variety of music, theater, and entertainer performances as well as youth programs, arts education, camps, and venue rentals. In 2026, the center will be celebrating its 30th anniversary.

CPPAC kicks off new season

The Central Park Performing Arts Center’s 2025-26 season got underway with an Oct. 10 concert featuring Sons of Mystro, followed by a performance by Sheena Easton and special guest Chloe Lowery on Oct. 12. The 2025-26 season will present an exciting lineup featuring several Grammy-winning performers with an array of genres including music, comedy, theatrical productions, and family-friendly shows. The season roster includes a series of CPPAC Featured Concerts, including performances by Paul & The Minneapolis Funk All-Stars, the Yonder Mountain String Band, the Smithereens with guest Sirsy, Close Enemies featuring Tom Hamilton of Aerosmith and many more. The lineup also includes Broadway stars, theatrical productions presented by Eight O’Clock Theatre, comedy acts, family shows and holiday favorites. Tickets for individual shows can be purchased online at LargoArts.com or by calling 727-5876793. An interactive season brochure is available at LargoArts.com/SeasonBrochure.

Season highlights

A Brother’s Revival, a highly authentic tribute to the legendary Allman Brothers Band featuring former Allman member David Goldflies, will take the stage on Saturday, Nov. 22, at 8 p.m. Led by David Goldflies, a former Allman Brothers Band member, and vocalist Mike Kach, known for his work with Dickey Betts, A Brother’s Revival recreates the iconic sound that defined Southern rock. The band’s performance features the classic elements that fans know and love, including dual drum kits, timpani, and a Hammond B-3 organ, delivering faithful renditions of Allman Brothers favorites, performed in their original format. Tickets start at $30.

Led by Grammy Award-winning banjoist and American Banjo Museum Hall of Fame inductee Alison Brown, the Alison Brown Quartet will perform at the Central Park Performing Arts Center on Sunday, Nov. 23, at 7 p.m. Brown has built a reputation for pushing the boundaries of traditional banjo music and is regarded as one of the most multi-faceted minds in roots music. Together, Brown and her bandmates seamlessly weave together bluegrass, jazz, Latin, and folk influences to create a distinctive and captivating instrumental sound. Tickets start at $25. Ring in the holiday season with Christmas with The New York Tenors at the Central Park Performing Arts Center on Sunday, Dec. 7, at 7 p.m. This festive performance brings together the soaring voices of Andy Cooney, Daniel Rodriguez, and Christopher Macchio in a heartwarming celebration of the sights and sounds of Christmas. The New York Tenors blend beloved holiday classics with their signature New York charm. Audiences will enjoy Irish-American favorite Andy Cooney, New York’s beloved “singing policeman” Daniel Rodriguez, and acclaimed classical tenor Christopher Macchio as they unite their talents to fill the theater with warmth, happiness, and cheer. Tickets start at $30. Feel the groove when St. Paul & The Minneapolis Funk All-Stars light up the stage on Friday, Jan. 16, at 8 p.m. Led by St. Paul Peterson, former member of The Time and The Family, this band celebrates the iconic electro-funk-rock sound of the 1980s Twin Cities. Handpicked by Prince to play keyboards for The Time and later to front The Family, St. Paul Peterson is one of the best musicians to emerge from Minneapolis. In the spirit of Motown’s Funk Brothers, he has brought together an ensemble of world-class musicians, all veterans of Prince’s bands who helped write, produce, and perform some of the biggest hits of the funk-rock era. Tickets start at $25. Yonder Mountain String Band, a driving force in roots music for nearly three decades and a key player in the progressive jamgrass movement, will perform on Sunday, March 15, at 7 p.m. The band recently kicked off a new chapter with the album “Nowhere Next.” Featuring original songs inspired by lived experiences, people, and places that have shaped them, the album is a mix of bluegrass, indie rock, and country with soulful, funky grooves that call for a good time. Their 11th studio album follows the Grammy-nominated “Get Yourself Outside” (2022), adding depth and momentum to Yonder’s rich musical legacy. “Nowhere Next” showcases the musical talents and collaborative writing efforts of founding members Adam Aijala (guitar, vocals), Dave Johnston (banjo, vocals), and Ben Kaufmann (bass, vocals), alongside multi-instrumentalist Nick Piccininni (mandolin, banjo, fiddle, vocals), a five-year veteran whose contributions as a singer and instrumentalist shine throughout the record. Together, they co-wrote nine of the eleven tracks, artfully blending their unique perspectives and vocal ranges to give each song its own distinct character. Coleman Smith (fiddle) makes his studio debut, adding a vibrant layer that complements the band’s overall dynamic. Grammy-winning Dobro legend Jerry Douglas brings his signature style to three standout tracks: “Here I Go,” “Wasting Time,” and “Didn’t Go Wrong.” Tickets start at $35.

A Brother’s Revival • Nov. 22

Alison Brown Quartet • Nov. 23

The New York Tenors • Dec. 7

St. Paul & The Minneapolis Funk All-Stars • Jan. 16

Yonder Mountain String Band • March 15

Central Park Performing Arts Center calendar • “Cabaret,” Nov. 7-16 • The Tickled Pink Comedy Tour, Friday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m. • A Brother’s Revival, Saturday, Nov. 22, 8 p.m. • The Alison Brown Quartet, Sunday, Nov. 23, 7 p.m. • Death by Chocolate, Friday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m. • Christmas with The New York Tenors, Sunday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m. • Clara’s Dream: A Modern Nutcracker; Dec. 13-14, 1 and 6 p.m. • The Nutcracker, Dec. 20-21 • The King of Comedy, Monday, Dec. 22, 6 p.m. • Schmaltz & Pepper, Friday, Jan. 2, 8 p.m. • Canine Circus, Saturday, Jan. 3, 11 a.m. • Let’s Hang On, Sunday, Jan. 4, 2 p.m. • The Kingston Trio, Thursday, Jan. 8, 7:30 p.m. • The New York Voices, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 7:30 p.m. • St. Paul & The Minneapolis Funk AllStars, Friday, Jan. 16, 8 p.m. • Close Enemies featuring Tom Hamilton of Aerosmith, Friday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m. • Totally Tom Petty Las Vegas, Wednesday, Jan. 28, 7:30 p.m. • Take It Easy: The Ultimate Eagles Tribute; Thursday, Jan. 29, 7:30 p.m. • Almost ABBA, Friday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m. • Fleetwood Mach, Saturday, Jan. 31, 8 p.m. • Solitary Man: A Tribute to Neil Diamond; Thursday, Feb. 5, 7:30 p.m.

• Zee-R’s Heartland Hits, Friday, Feb. 6, 8 p.m. • The Mersey Beatles, Tuesday, Feb. 10, 7:30 p.m. • Jane Monheit, Wednesday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m. • Seals & Crofts 2, Thursday, Feb. 12, 7:30 p.m. • The Four Freshmen, Sunday, Feb. 15, 2 p.m. • “My Fair Lady,” Feb. 27-March 8 • Wishbone Ash, Wednesday, March 11, 7:30 p.m. • The Yonder Mountain String Band, Sunday, March 15, 7 p.m. • The Edwards Twins, Wednesday, March 18, 2 and 7:30 p.m. • Smithereens, Friday, March 20, 8 p.m. • Suzy Bogguss, Saturday, March 21, 8 p.m. • The Everly Brothers Experience featuring the Zmed Brothers, Sunday, March 22, 2 p.m. • Vintage Vinyl Live: Steely Dan’s “Aja,” Thursday, March 26, 7:30 p.m. • “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” Saturday, March 28, 11 a.m. • Norbert Leo Butz, Saturday, March 28, 8 p.m. • Get Ready: The Ultimate Motown Experience; Wednesday, April 1, 7:30 p.m. • Cinderella, April 18-19 • “Crazy for You,” May 1-10 • Vintage Vinyl Live: Boston’s debut album; Thursday, May 14, 7:30 p.m. Dates, times, show description and performances are subject to change. Visit LargoArts.com.

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Dining & Entertainment

Outdoor arts & craft fair season opens Howard Alan Events, American Craft Endeavors announce 2025-2026 festival season schedule showcasing local, regional & national artisans Tampa Bay Newspapers Howard Alan Events, along with its American Craft Endeavors counterpart, the nation’s largest outdoor art and craft festival producer, recently unveiled its 2025-2026 season of spectacular showcases. The free festivals support thousands of artists’ careers, generate millions of dollars in local economic impact, and offer inspiration to millions of attendees each year. All Howard Alan Events and American Craft Endeavor shows are free of charge to patrons. Additionally, all artists are on site for the duration of the events, allowing patrons and visitors to discover the creative inspirations and processes behind every piece. Locations all have ample or free parking available, and friendly pets on leashes are welcome to all Central and West Coast Florida shows. For information on Howard Alan Events and American Craft Endeavor shows, visit www.artfestival.com or call 561-7466615. Following is a look at some of the festivals taking place in the Tampa Bay area:

Fifth annual Palm Harbor Craft Festival

Nov. 22-23, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Florida Avenue in Palm Harbor American Craft Endeavors is thrilled to return to the “jewel of Tampa Bay” this season, with a beautiful display of creativity from nearly 100 visiting and local fine crafters. Home goods, jewelry, pet accessories, painting, pottery and more one-of-a-kind and personalized gift ideas await visitors during this two-day artistic affair.

31st annual St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival

Dec. 6-7, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Corey Avenue in St. Pete Beach American Craft Endeavors continues its beloved annual tradition during the Annual St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival. Skip the on-line shopping and instead find one-of-a-kind, unique gifts from over 100 craft artists during this free community event. A variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, clothing and much more, all handmade in America, will be on display. An expansive green market with plants, orchids, exotic flora, handmade soaps, gourmet spices and freshly popped kettle corn further complements the weekend.

29th annual Downtown Dunedin Art Festival

Jan. 3-4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Main Street in Dunedin World-class art returns to beautiful Main Street during the annual Downtown Dunedin Art Festival. Over 150 local and national artists will line, gallery-style, along the historic town’s main thoroughfare. Each individual tent displays exquisite works of art across all mediums including handcrafted jewelry, stunning photography, paintings, ceramics, fiber, life-sized sculpture and mixed media.

Wesley Chapel Craft Festival at the Shops at Wiregrass

Feb. 28-March 1, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Paseo Drive in Wesley Chapel American Craft Endeavors is excited to present its newest addition to the ACE lineup in Tampa. A variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, clothing and much more,

Photo courtesy of HOWARD ALAN EVENTS

Above: Festivalgoers discover treasures at the spectacular showcases hosted by Howard Alan Events and American Craft Endeavors. Left: Josh Fradis, right, is one artist who frequently participates in Hyde Park festivals. all handmade in America, will be on display. An expansive green market with seasonal plants, orchids, exotic flora, handmade soaps, gourmet spices and more complement this creative, craft walk event.

51st annual Tarpon Springs Fine Arts Festival on the Bayou

March 14-15, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Beekman Lane in Tarpon Springs Howard Alan Events is privileged to partner with the Chamber of Commerce on this historic, annual event. The festival takes place at Craig Park on Spring Bayou, a picturesque waterfront park shaded by oak trees, located in the heart of Tarpon Springs. More than 100 fine artists present thousands of original works in various mediums, including photography, painting, glass, ceramics, and custom jewelry. Included in this artistic affair is a full craft marketplace with affordable, functional art and a seasonal green market.

33rd annual Hyde Park Village Art Fair

March 21-22, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Snow Avenue in Tampa Luxury boutique shopping meets the most awe-inspiring contemporary fine art in the nation during this exquisite showcase. Located in Tampa’s modern oasis of Hyde Park Village, the nation’s top artists present sculpture, paintings, mixed media, glasswork and more, arranged gallery-style along the road for a weekend-long, free art walk of dazzling delights.

22nd annual St. Pete Beach Corey Area Craft Festival

April 11-12, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Corey Avenue in St. Pete Beach American Craft Endeavors welcomes more than 125 fine artists and craft artisans to Corey Area during this special showcase. A variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, clothing and much more, all handmade in America, will be on display. An expansive green market with seasonal plants, orchids, exotic flora, handmade soaps, gourmet spices and more complement this creative craft walk event.

Second annual Clearwater Craft Festival at Coachman Park

April 18-19, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Cleveland Street in Clearwater Back by popular demand, ACE is proud to return to Clearwater with this delightful artistic event. Visitors are invited to take a leisurely stroll through beautiful Coachman Park as they peruse the displays of original, functional art, and enjoy tasty treats from the green market.

33rd annual Downtown Dunedin Craft Festival

April 25-26, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Main Street

in Dunedin The long-running, popular springtime event returns in April, bringing hundreds of the best of America’s creatives to beautiful, seaside Dunedin. Ceramics, pottery, hair accessories, stunning original art and a green market blooming with delicious treats and tropical plants are only a few of the delights awaiting visitors and residents during this beautiful showcase. For more information on Howard Alan Events and American Craft Endeavor shows, visit www. artfestival.com or call 561-746-6615.

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Dining & Entertainment

Photo by CHUCK DAVIS

Pollstar recently ranked the BayCare Sound the No. 1 amphitheater in Tampa and No. 2 in Florida.

A variety of shows at multiple venues Ruth Eckerd Hall, Bilheimer Capitol Theatre and BayCare Sound fill the calendar with shows & events Tampa Bay Newspapers CLEARWATER — The Ruth Eckerd Hall group of performance venues has announced more than 150 performances for the 2025-26 season, including shows set for Ruth Eckerd Hall, the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, and the BayCare Sound. A complete list of performances can be found online at rutheckerdhall.com, and more shows and events are expected to be announced throughout the season. Recently, trade publication Pollstar announced that for venues of 2,500 seats or less during the period of October 2024 to last March, Ruth Eckerd Hall was No. 1 in gross ticket sales in the Tampa Bay area, No. 3 in Florida and No. 7 in the United States. The publication ranked the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre the No. 1 club in the area and also statewide among venues with 800 seats or less. BayCare Sound was ranked as the No. 1 amphitheater in the Tampa bay area, No. 2 in Florida and No. 3 in the United States among amphitheaters with a 10,000-person capacity or less. “Our offerings continue to grow and attract a wider audience,” REH chief executive Susan Crockett said. “The joy is apparent at every show, and it’s reflected in our global rankings.”

A breakdown of top upcoming performances at each venue follows, along with a more comprehensive listing of scheduled events.

Ruth Eckerd Hall

Upcoming performances include violinist Lindsey Stirling (Nov. 25), country superstar Trisha Yearwood (Dec. 11), comedian Kevin James (Jan. 16), comedians Jay Leno and Arsenio Hall (Feb. 27) and much more. Ruth Eckerd Hall continues its partnership with the Tampa Bay Times presenting the Broadway Series, which includes the Clearwater premiere of the Tony Award-Winning Best Musical “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” (April 1 – April 5), as well as “A Magical Cirque Christmas” (Nov. 16), and “RAIN — A Beatles Christmas Tribute (Nov. 21).” The Matinee Collection Series performances include the Premier Elvis Birthday Bash (Jan. 4), Mutts Gone Nuts (Jan. 11), the Tampa Bay area premiere of “Invincible — A Glorious Tribute to Michael Jackson” (Jan. 18), The Barricade Boys West End Party (Jan. 25), A1A: The Official and Original Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show (Feb. 1), Sixtiesmania: A Journey Through The Sixties (Feb. 16), So Good: The Neil Diamond See VARIETY, page 10

Photo by COLIN PECK PHOTOGRAPHY

Dave Koz celebrates the holidays with friends on Nov. 29 at Ruth Eckerd Hall.

Ruth Eckerd Hall calendar • Carl Palmer: An Evening with Emerson, Lake & Palmer; Saturday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m. • Mannheim Steamroller, Thursday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m. • Neil Berg’s 50 Years of Rock and Roll, Friday, Nov. 14, 7 p.m. • America, Saturday, Nov. 15, 7 p.m. • A Magical Cirque Christmas, Sunday, Nov. 16, 7 p.m. • Rain: A Beatles Christmas Tribute, Friday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m. • Floyd Nation, Saturday, Nov. 22, 8 p.m. • Lindsey Stirling, Tuesday, Nov. 25, 8 p.m. • Twilight in Concert, Wednesday, Nov. 26, 7 p.m. • Dave Koz & Friends, Saturday, Nov. 29, 8 p.m. • Lady A, Saturday, Dec. 6, 8 p.m. • Three Dog Night, Sunday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m. • Trisha Yearwood, Thursday, Dec. 11, 7:30 p.m. • Sarah Brightman, Friday, Dec. 12, 8 p.m. • Michael W. Smith, Saturday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m. • Allman Betts Family Revival, Sunday, Dec. 14, 8 p.m. • Wheel of Fortune Live Holiday Show, Thursday, Dec. 18, 7:30 p.m. • Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland; Friday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m. • “Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol,” Dec. 22-23 • Straight No Chaser, Tuesday, Dec. 30, 7:30 p.m. • Salute to Vienna New Year’s Concert, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 3 p.m. • Elvis Birthday Bash, Sunday, Jan. 4, 1 p.m. • Mutts Gone Nuts, Sunday, Jan. 11, 1 p.m. • Herb Alpert & The Tijuana Brass, Tuesday, Jan. 13, 7:30 p.m. • Kevin James, Friday, Jan. 16, 7 p.m. • Invincible: A Glorious Michael Jackson Celebration, Sunday, Jan. 18, 1 p.m. • Diana Krall, Friday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m. • Yacht Rock Revue, Saturday, Jan. 24, 8 p.m. • Barricade Boys, Sunday, Jan. 25, 1 p.m. • Geoff Tate, Friday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m.

• Todd Snider, Saturday, Jan. 31, 8 p.m. • A1A Jimmy Buffett Tribute, Sunday, Feb. 1, 1 p.m. • Riverdance 30: The New Generation; Feb. 3-4, 7:30 p.m. • Gypsy Kings, Saturday, Feb. 14, 8 p.m. • Sixtiesmania, Monday, Feb. 16, 1 p.m. • The Price is Right, Tuesday, Feb. 17, 7:30 p.m. • “Tina: The Tine Turner Musical,” Thursday, Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m. • Dirty Dancing in Concert, Saturday, Feb. 21, 8 p.m. • The Neil Diamond Experience starring Robert Neary, Sunday, Feb. 22, 1 p.m. • Neil Berg’s 117 Years of Broadway, Tuesday, Feb. 24, 1 p.m. • Steve Hackett, Thursday, Feb. 26, 7:30 p.m. • Jay Leno, Friday, Feb. 27, 8 p.m. • The Righteous Brothers, Saturday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m. • Stayin Alive: Bee Gees Tribute; Sunday, March 1, 1 p.m. • Playstation: The Concert; Sunday, March 8, 7 p.m. • Paul Anka, Monday, March 9, 7 p.m. • Get the Led Out, Sunday, March 15, 8 p.m. • Masters of Illusion, Thursday, March 19, 7 p.m. • Whose Live Anyway, Saturday, March 21, 7:30 p.m. • The Bronx Wanderers, Sunday, March 22, 1 p.m. • The Temptation and The Four Tops, Tuesday, March 24, 730 p.m. • Dancing with the Stars: Live; March 27-28 • The Dream Team of Rock & Roll, Sunday, March 29, 1 p.m. • “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” April 1-5 • Leonid & Friends, Thursday, April 9, 8 p.m. • Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers, Friday, April 17, 7 p.m. • Josh Gates, Thursday, May 21, 8 p.m. • Happy Together Tour, Friday, May 29, 7 p.m. Dates, times, show description and performances are subject to change. Visit www.rutheckerdhall.com.

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Photo by MATTHEW MURPHY & EVAN SIMMERMAN FOR MURPHYMADE

Jay Armstrong Johnson and Arianna Rosario star in the touring production of “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” coming to Ruth Eckerd Hall in April 2026 as part of the Broadway season.

Taking the spotlight Ruth Eckerd Hall’s 2025-26 Broadway season includes ‘Moulin Rouge,’ Sarah Brightman, ‘Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol’ & more Tampa Bay Newspapers CLEARWATER — Ruth Eckerd Hall has unveiled its 2025-2026 Broadway season lineup, which features several local debuts along with many returning fan favorites. For the first time, Ruth Eckerd Hall audiences will have an opportunity to enjoy performances of “Moulin Rouge! The Musical,” “Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol” and “Tina — The Tina Turner Musical.” Among the returning favorites is “Riverdance 30: The New Generation” and a concert featuring Grammy nominated artist Sarah Brightman. Most performances will be presented at Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater. Chazz Palminteri’s “A Bronx Tale,” “The Simon & Garfunkel Story” and a concert showcasing Tony-nominated Matthew Morrison will be presented at the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater. Tickets may be purchased by calling 727-7917400 or online at RuthEckerdHall.com. Also, the ticket office at Ruth Eckerd Hall is open Tuesday through Thursday and Saturday from noon to 6 p.m., Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and two

hours prior to show time. Prior to performances at Ruth Eckerd Hall, theatergoers can enjoy pre-show dining in the Dimmitt Lounge, which includes a dinner buffet including dessert, and a choice of one beer, wine, single liquor cocktail or soda for only $35 per person. Prices include tax. The menu is subject to change. A look at the 2025-2026 Broadway series follows.

‘A Magical Cirque Christmas’

Sunday, Nov. 16, 7 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $35. In “A Magical Cirque Christmas,” the cast of world-class acrobats, contortionists and aerialists will push the boundaries of imagination where gravity is defied and human potential knows no limits. The performers are supported by a captivating musical score that will tug at your heartstrings, elevate your spirit and have you tapping your foot and singing along to hit Christmas songs in the ultimate variety extravaganza. The festive show entertains audiences of all ages during an evening of spectacular feats, acrobatic antics, and magical performances complete with holiday hilarity and music.

‘Rain — A Beatles Christmas Tribute’

Friday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $35. Audiences will experience a nostalgic evening of love, joy, and timeless music as “Rain — A Beatles Christmas Tribute” brings the spirit of the season to life. The production will feature holiday favorites alongside the legendary sounds of The Beatles.

Sarah Brightman: ‘A Winter Symphony’

Friday, Dec. 12, 8 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $53.75. Every year Grammy-nominated Sarah Brightman shares her critically acclaimed holiday show with audiences in countries around the world … and this year is no exception. Accompanied by an orchestra, choir and special guests, this enchanting holiday show will feature Brightman performing many of her holiday classics and greatest hits. See BROADWAY, page 13

File photo

Sarah Brightman returns to Ruth Eckerd Hall on Dec. 12.

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Photos by CHRIS URSO

Both Ruth Eckerd Hall, left, and the Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre were No. 1 in gross ticket sales in the Tampa Bay area in their respective categories, as reported in the most recent rankings in the trade magazine Pollstar. The venues seek to offer a variety of performances to grow and attract a wider audience.

VARIETY, from page 8 Experience (Feb. 22), and more.

The Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre

Nancy and David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre continues to bring up-and-coming superstars to veteran artists to the venue in downtown Clearwater, including The Wallflowers (Nov. 8), Shaun Cassidy (Dec. 12), Judy Collins (Jan. 19) and Keb’ Mo’ (Feb. 14).

The BayCare Sound

The outdoor concert venue on the Intracoastal Waterway at Coachman Park in downtown Clearwater presents an all-star line-up including Greensky Bluegrass (Nov. 13), Russell Dickerson (Nov. 14), All Time Low (Nov. 15), Dark Star Orchestra (Dec. 4), INZO (Feb. 14), Styx with special guest Cheap Trick (Feb. 27) and blues guitar great Joe Bonamassa (March 21).

Ruth Eckerd Hall on the Road

Ruth Eckerd Hall on the Road books and produces concerts and events in venues throughout the Tampa Bay area and across the United States. Its concerts and events this year include Bored Teachers at the Tampa Theatre on Saturday, Jan. 17, at 7:30 p.m. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit www.TampaTheatre.org. REH on the Road also will present Tyler Hubbard and Lee Brice performing at the Valpar LSPAR live concert on Saturday, March 21, as part of the PGA Tour Valspar Championship. Tickets go on sale Tuesday, Nov. 18 at ValsparChampionship.com.

Ticketing

For more information, to purchase tickets and pre-show dining, visit RuthEckerdHall.com. The Raymond James Central Ticket Office at Ruth Eckerd Hall is at 1111 N. McMullen Booth Road in Clearwater and is open Tuesday through Thursday and Saturday from noon to 6 p.m. and Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. The ticket office at Ruth Eckerd Hall, the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre box office and The BayCare Sound ticket booth open two hours prior to show time.

What’s up next

Guitar legends John 5 & Richie Kotzen join forces on stage for a concert on Sunday, Nov. 2, 7 p.m., at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre. Tickets start at $34.50. For over 30 years, John 5 has been one of the most in-demand guitar players on the planet. As well as a songwriter/guitarist for hire, 5 has shared the stage as axe-man for Rob Zombie, Marilyn Manson and Rob Halford. He has also worked with an impressive array of names, from all walks of music, including KD Lang, Rod Stewart, Dave Lee Roth, Alice Cooper, Tina Guo, Steven Adler, Lynryd Skynrd, Ricky Martin, Rod Stewart, Mötley Crüe and more. Richie Kotzen has always been on a clear, laser-focused mission as an artist. While he is rightfully acknowledged worldwide for being a stellar guitar player, an emotive singer, and, frankly, a

balls-out dynamic live performer to boot, Kotzen is quite aware he must maintain an ever-vigilant eye on ensuring one particularly important creative arrow in his artistic quiver continues to be properly nurtured — and that is his songwriting. Carl Palmer will present An Evening with Emerson, Lake & Palmer on Saturday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $35. Created by Carl Palmer and his management, An Evening With Emerson, Lake & Palmer, will be presented with the full cooperation of the Estates of Keith Emerson and Greg Lake. Through modern technology they will reunite the band: Carl with his two bandmates, playing together along with Keith Emerson & Greg Lake, who both passed away in 2016. The show combines video performance of Emerson and Lake from a legendary sold out Royal Albert Hall ELP show from 1992 with live on stage performances of Carl Palmer with his own ELP Legacy band (Paul Bielatowicz and Simon Fitzpatrick). The Wallflowers will perform on Saturday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m., at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre. Tickets start at $49.50. For the past 30 years, the Jakob Dylan-led act has stood as one of rock’s most dynamic and purposeful bands — a unit dedicated to and continually honing a sound that meshes timeless songwriting and storytelling with a hard-hitting and decidedly modern musical attack. That signature style has been present through the decades, baked into the grooves of smash hits like 1996’s “Bringing Down the Horse” as well as more recent and exploratory fare like 2012’s “Glad All Over.” Thomas Dolby will bring his ’80s tour to the Tampa Bay area for a show on Sunday, Nov. 9, 8 p.m., at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre. Tickets start at $44.50. Perhaps best known for blinding us with science, Dolby has always blurred the lines between composition and invention. Born Thomas Morgan Robertson in 1958, the English musician, producer, composer, entrepreneur and teacher came to prominence in the 1980s, releasing hit singles including “She Blinded Me with Science” (1982) and “Hyperactive!” (1984). He has also worked as a producer and as a session musician. Greensky Bluegrass will make their BayCare Sound debut on Thursday, Nov. 13, at 7 p.m. Tickets start at $45. Michigan’s roving bluegrass-rock outfit have been building an empire, brick by brick, for two decades. The band’s underground die-hard fans pack out venues across the country and sell out multiple-night show runs at iconic venues like Red Rocks and The Ryman. They are widely known for their dazzling live performances and relentless touring schedule, but that is only the tip of the complex tale of the five musicians that make up Greensky Bluegrass. Mannheim Steamroller will present a holiday show on Thursday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $57. Grammy Award-winner Mannheim Steamroller has sold more than 41 million albums, 31 million in the Christmas genre. Chip Davis creates a show filled to the brim with classic carols and original songs performed by award-winning musical talent. Their holiday CDs have become synonymous with Christmas and occupy top positions on Billboard’s Seasonal Chart every year.

Photo by MICHAEL INNS

Carl Palmer brings his ELP show to Ruth Eckerd Hall on Nov. 8.

Photo by ANDREW SLATER

The Wallflowers, led by Jakob Dylan, return to the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre on Nov. 8.

The BayCare Sound calendar • Greensky Bluegrass, Thursday, Nov. 13, 7 p.m. • Russell Dickerson, Friday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. • All Time Low, Saturday, Nov. 15, 7 p.m. • Dark Star Orchestra, Thursday, Dec. 4, 6 p.m. • Inzo, Saturday, Feb. 14, 5 p.m. • Styx, Friday, Feb. 27, 7 p.m. • Little River Band, Friday, March 6,

7 p.m. • Bret Michaels, Saturday, March 7, 7 p.m. • Joe Bonamassa, Saturday, March 21, 7 p.m. • Foreigner, Saturday, April 18, 7:30 p.m. Dates, times, show description and performances are subject to change. Visit www.rutheckerdhall.com.

The Bilheimer Capitol Theatre calendar • Boyce Avenue, Saturday, Nov. 1, 8 p.m. • John 5 and Richie Kotzen, Sunday, Nov. 2, 7 p.m. • Live Dead & Brothers, Wednesday, Nov. 5, 8 p.m. • The Wallflowers, Saturday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m. • Thomas Dolby, Sunday, Nov. 9, 8 p.m. • Evil Dead in Concert, Friday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m. • Del McCoury Band, Saturday, Nov. 15, 8 p.m. • The Life & Music of George Michael, Friday, Nov. 21, 8 p.m. • “Stop Making Sense” Live Event, Saturday, Nov. 22, 8 p.m. • Chelcie Lynn, Friday, Dec. 5, 8 p.m. • Peter White, Thursday, Dec. 11, 8 p.m. • Shaun Cassidy, Friday, Dec. 12, 8 p.m. • Bruce Hornsby, Saturday, Dec. 13, 8 p.m. • Pete Correale, Friday, Dec. 19, 8 p.m. • Rockapella Christmas, Saturday, Dec. 20, 8 p.m. • Celtic Angels Christmas, Sunday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m. • Donna the Buffalo, Wednesday, Dec. 31, 8 p.m. • Leo Kottke, Wednesday, Jan. 14, 8 p.m. • Jesse Cook, Friday, Jan. 16, 8 p.m. • Judy Collins, Sunday, Jan. 18, 7 p.m. • Gaelic Storm, Thursday, Jan. 22, 8 p.m. • The Weight Band, Friday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m. • Rumours ATL, Saturday, Jan. 24, 8 p.m. • John Waite, Friday, Jan. 30, 8 p.m. • Los Lonely Boys, Sunday, Feb. 1, 7 p.m. • Matthew Morrison, Thursday, Feb. 5, 8 p.m. • Chazz Palminteri’s “A Bronx Tale,” Friday, Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m. • Hotel California, Friday, Feb. 13, 8 p.m.

• Keb’ Mo’, Saturday, Feb. 14, 8 p.m. • The Outlaws, Thursday, Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m. • The Electric Light Orchestra Experience, Saturday, Feb. 21, 8 p.m. • Spyro Gyra, Friday, Feb. 27, 8 p.m. • Tusk, Saturday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m. • Al Jardine & Pet Sounds Band, Monday, March 2, 7:30 p.m. • Gregorian sings Enigma, Wednesday, March 4, 7:30 p.m. • Justin Furstenfeld, Thursday, March 5, 8 p.m. • “I Am, He Said,” Friday, March 6, 8 p.m. • Taj Farrant, Saturday, March 7, 8 p.m. • The Man in Black: Johnny Cash; Sunday, March 8, 7:30 p.m. • Classic Elton, Thursday, March 12, 8 p.m. • Gino Vannelli, Saturday, March 14, 8 p.m. • Pat Metheny, Monday, March 16, 7:30 p.m. • Dusty Slay, Friday, March 20, 7 p.m. • Don McLean, Monday, March 23, 7:30 p.m. • “The Simon & Garfunkel Story,” Thursday, March 26, 7:30 p.m. • Forever Donna: The Ultimate Donna Summer Tribute; Saturday, March 28, 8 p.m. • The Cream of Clapton Band, Saturday, April 4, 8 p.m. • The Rush Tribute Project, Monday, April 20, 7:30 p.m. • Killer Queen: Tribute to Queen; Saturday, May 9, 8 p.m. Dates, times, show description and performances are subject to change. Visit www.rutheckerdhall.com.

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Timeless, transformative stories freeFall Theatre’s 2025-2026 season continues with ‘Deathtrap’ running through Dec. 7

great romances. Himself: an internationally acclaimed author whose words awakened the world. Nora: the country girl from Galway whose burning sexuality and acerbic wit ignited the genius of James Joyce. Himself and Nora is a passionate musical that reveals the private life of one of modern literature’s most controversial figures. Ripped from the pages of their intimate life together and inspired by their Irish roots, this untold story of writer James Joyce and his muse is a scintillating exposé of the unconventional and passionate love affair that changed literature forever.

Tampa Bay Newspapers

ST. PETERSBURG — Eric Davis, founding artistic director at freeFall Theatre, believes in the transformative power of live theater. According to freeFall’s website, the company sees theater as “a builder of community, a source of upliftment, and a creator of cultural legacy.” As such, freeFall is dedicated to delivering high quality productions showcasing timeless tales. The 2025-2026 season maintains that commitment with a lineup that features a classic comedy-thriller from the celebrated author of “Rosemary’s Baby,” the return of a beloved Christmas tradition, a cautionary look at the life and world of Anne Frank, a musical romance about writer James Joyce and his muse, and an all-new jukebox musical lampooning a classic 1980s fantasy film — and that’s not all. In addiOtion to the full season of shows, theatergoers will welcome the return of freeFall’s popular Tandem Series of cabarets, concerts and special events. The theater is at 6099 Central Ave. in St. Petersburg. Subscriptions and single tickets are now on sale and can be purchased at freefalltheatre.com or by calling 727-498-5205. All matinees at freeFall are at 2 p.m. and all evening performances are at 7 p.m. Single tickets range from $45 to $55. The season got underway with the Sept. 5 opening of “Tell Me On a Sunday,” a rarely produced gem from Andrew Lloyd Webber. The cast of the musical romance featured Julia Rifino with dancers Maiky Ayala, David Tanciar, and Mark Wildman playing the men in her life. The show ran through Oct. 5. Currently being presented at freeFall Theatre is a production of Ira Levin’s “Deathtrap.” “Deathtrap” features Eric Davis, freeFall’s artistic director, as Sidney Bruhl, a successful writer of Broadway thrillers who is struggling to overcome a dry spell which has resulted in a string of failures and a shortage of funds; Natalie Symons, an acclaimed playwright, as Sidney’s wife Myra; and Robert Teasdale as Clifford Anderson. The rest of the cast features John Lombardi as Porter Milgrim and Sara DelBeato as Helga Ten Dorp. This production will continue through Dec. 7. Following is a look at the remainder of freeF-

“And Then They Came for Me: Remembering the World of Anne Frank”

Photo courtesy of FREEFALL

Julia Rifino stars freeFall Theatre’s “Tell Me on a Sunday.” This show kicked off freeFall’s 20252026 season, running Sept. 5 through Oct. 5. all Theatre’s 2025-2026 season:

“Deathtrap”

Through Dec. 7 This classic thriller by Ira Levin provides twists and turns of devilish cleverness and offers hilariously sudden shocks in such abundance that audiences will be spellbound until the very last moment. Comfortably ensconced in his charming Connecticut home, Sidney Bruhl, a successful writer of Broadway thrillers, is struggling to overcome a dry spell which has resulted in a string of failures and a shortage of funds. A possible break in his fortunes occurs when he receives a script from a student in the seminar he has been conducting at a nearby college — a thriller that Sidney recognizes immediately as a potential Broadway smash. Sidney’s plan, devised with his wife’s help, is to offer collaboration to the student for co-credit. Or is it?

“A Christmas Carol: In Concert”

Dec. 11-24 What in the Dickens is going on at freeFall? Our beloved concert version of “A Christmas Carol” is back by popular demand and we’re delighted to share it with you. This show is well-regarded for its faithfulness to Dickens’ story and for its ability to capture the true spirit of Christmas. Featuring beautifully arranged songs from Keith Ferguson and Bruce Greer’s musical adaptation performed by a cast of live singers along with multimedia and narration from the original novella, this is the perfect evening out during the holiday season. Relive the magic or share this beloved holiday tradition with the next generation.

“Himself and Nora”

Jan. 30-March 8 Featuring book, music and lyrics by Jonathan Brielle, “Himself and Nora” is one of the world’s

April 10-May 17 James Still’s “And Then They Came for Me” is a unique multimedia play that combines videotaped interviews of Holocaust survivors Ed Silverberg and Eva Schloss and live actors recreating scenes from their lives during World War II. Ed was Anne Frank’s first boyfriend, and she wrote about him in the beginning of her now-famous diary. Eva Schloss was the same age as Anne Frank and lived in the same apartment building in Amsterdam. Her family went into hiding the same day as the Frank family. And like the Frank family, they were betrayed. Part oral history, part dramatic action, part direct address, part remembrance, the ensemble-driven “And Then They Came for Me” breaks new ground and has been acclaimed by audiences and critics in world-wide productions.

“Bash of The Titans: An Unauthorized Parody Party”

June 12-Aug. 2 Featuring book and lyrics by Eric Davis, Matthew McGee and Michael Raabe; and with music arrangements and orchestrations by Raabe, “Bash of The Titans: An Unauthorized Parody Party” is an all-new musical parody for The Gods — Greek Gods, to be exact. Perseus, the favored son of Zeus, has ticked off a vengeful goddess and finds himself having to tackle a series of quests in order to win the heart of the beautiful Andromeda. freeFall presents this ’80s jukebox musical filled with love, adventure, laughs, togas, sea monsters and maybe even a Titan or two. Tampa Bay favorite Matthew McGee returns to the freeFall stage as Zeus in this campy and tuneful musical parody.

Curtain call at Pinellas community theaters By LEE CLARK ZUMPE

Tampa Bay Newspapers

The 2025-2026 theater season is already off to a strong start in the Tampa Bay area, with new shows staged or underway at several area theaters. American Stage is currently presenting a story about love at first sight … and everything that comes afterward. “Hundred Days,” based on the real love story of musical duo The Bengsons, opened on Oct. 22 and will run through Nov. 16 at the Raymond James Theater at American Stage, 163 Third St. N., St. Petersburg. Written by The Bengsons and Sarah Gancher, this folk-punk musical explores the fragility of

time and the infinite depth of love. Directed by Nick Sugar with music direction by Jason Tucker, “Hundred Days” is part memoir, part concert. The story centers on Abigail and Shaun Bengson, two indie musicians who fall for each other the instant they meet in a diner. Love at first sight is immediately followed by anxiety when Abigail recalls a dream she deems “prophetic”: that she would meet her soulmate in a diner, but only have a hundred days to spend together. What follows is a mission to cram an entire lifetime into 100 days, while learning to embrace life’s uncertainty along the way. “Hundred Days” joins American Stage’s 20252026 mainstage season, which will explore the courage it takes to seek community, the beauty

of unexpected destinations, and the journey of finding your way home. For information and tickets, visit www.americanstage.org or call 727-823-7529. Following is a look at the 2025-2026 calendar at Pinellas County theaters.

American Stage

• “Hundred Days,” Oct. 22-Nov. 16 • “The Magi,” Dec. 4-21 • “The Scarlet Letter,” Jan. 21-Feb. 15 • “The Hot Wing King,” June 3-28 American Stage Theatre, a professional equity theater, presents its productions at the Raymond

James Theatre, 163 Third St. N., St. Petersburg. Call 727-823-7529 or visit www.americanstage. org. American Stage also will present “Into the Woods,” running March 25-April 26, at Demens Landing Park, at Bayshore Drive and Second Avenue South, in St. Petersburg.

Early Bird Dinner Theatre

• “On the Farce Day of Christmas,” Nov. 8-Dec. 14 • “Where You Are,” Jan. 10-Feb. 15 • “Baggage,” Feb. 28-April 12 • “Becky’s New Car,” April 25-June 7 See THEATERS, page 12

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Top acts to play Mahaffey By LEE CLARK ZUMPE

Tampa Bay Newspapers

The Duke Energy Center for the Arts — Mahaffey Theater, under the management of Big3 Entertainment, has a full schedule of performances featuring top-quality national and international artists and performances across all genres, including pop, rock, R&B, comedy, theater, dance, and classical. The Mahaffey Theater is at 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg. For tickets, visit ticketmaster.com. For information, visit themahaffey.com or call 727-892-5721. Members can call the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts at 727-300-2000. The 10th annual 99.5 QYK Guitar Pull is back, bringing to the Mahaffey stage some of Nashville’s

new country hit-makers. The show will be presented on Sunday, Nov. 9, at 7:30 p.m. As usual, the musicians will play acoustically together while swapping stories on stage for a truly unforgettable, intimate evening. Each artist performs several songs in a loop, with story-telling and other fun interactions amongst the artists. Unlike a traditional concert, there is no opening act or a headliner. Cirque Dreams Holidaze will visit St. Petersburg for two shows on Saturday, Nov. 29, 4 and 8 p.m., at the Mahaffey. This production dazzles audiences with a brilliantly breathtaking holiday spectacular for the whole family. As the original cirque holiday theatrical event, this annual tradition wraps a Broadway-style

production around awe-inspiring contemporary circus arts. Guests will be on the edge of their seats as a cast of holiday characters come to life, captivating audiences while defying gravity. Another one of this season’s highlights will be Penn & Teller’s 50th anniversary tour, set for Thursday, Jan. 29, at 8 p.m. From humble beginnings 50 years ago busking on the streets of Philadelphia, to acclaimed sold– out runs on Broadway and renown as the longest-running and one of the most-beloved resident headline acts in Las Vegas history, magic’s legendary duo — Penn Jillette and Teller — continue to defy labels (and at times physics and good taste), by redefining the genre of magic and inventing their own very distinct niche in comedy.

Photo courtesy of MAHAFFEY THEATER

Penn & Teller take the stage at the Mahaffey Theater on Jan. 29.

The Duke Energy Center for the Arts — Mahaffey Theater calendar • Brothers Again, A Celebration of the Music of Allman Brothers Band, Friday, Nov. 7 at 7:30 p.m. • 99.5 QYK Guitar Pull, Sunday, Nov. 9 at 7:30 p.m. • A Charlie Brown Christmas Live on Stage, Wednesday, Nov. 12 at 7 p.m. • Phil Rosenthal, Friday, Nov. 14 at 7 p.m. • Sarah Millican, Saturday, Nov. 22 at 8 p.m. • Hannah Berner, Friday, Nov. 28 at 7 p.m. • Cirque Dreams Holidaze, Saturday, Nov. 29 at 4 p.m. & 8 p.m. • Jagged Edge, Sunday, Nov. 30 at 7:30 p.m. • Sesame Street Live!, Sunday, Dec. 7 at 2 p.m. • John Mulaney, Monday, Dec. 8 & Tuesday, Dec. 9 both at 7:30 p.m. • Vienna Light Orchestra, Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. • Fortune Feimster - Thursday Dec. 18 & Friday Dec. 19 both at 7 p.m. • A Very Broadway Christmas, Dec. 21 at 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. • A Drag Queen Christmas (18+), Monday, Dec. 22 at 8 p.m.

THEATERS, from page 11 Early Bird Dinner Theatre productions are presented at 13355 49th St. N., Clearwater. For information, call 727-446-5898 or visit www. earlybirddinnertheater.com.

Eight O’Clock Theatre

• “Cabaret,” Nov. 7-16 • “My Fair Lady,” Feb. 27-March 8 • “Crazy for You,” May 1-10 Eight O’Clock Theatre productions are presented at Central Park Performing Arts Center,

ORCHESTRA, from page 2 Symphony Orchestra and Grammy-Award winning artist Christian Reif; William Eddins, music director emeritus of the Edmonton Symphony Orchestra; and Norwegian conductor Rune Bergmann, music director of Canada’s Calgary Philharmonic and chief conductor of Switzerland’s Argovia Philharmonic. All Hough Family Foundation Masterworks concerts include popular Pre-Concert Conversations, which take a deep dive into the stories behind the music with guest artists and conductors, starting one hour before the performance. The Raymond James Pops series will bring a wide variety of music for all generations. Audiences will delight in the whimsical nostalgia of Bugs Bunny at the Symphony film concert, sing along to The Billy Joel Songbook, feel the festive cheer of Holiday Pops and join in a heartfelt salute to America’s 250th birthday. The Florida Orchestra also will continue its Morning Matinees series. In her fourth season with the orchestra, Chel-

• Gary Owen, Friday, Dec. 26 at 7 p.m. • Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet, Sunday, Dec. 28 at 12, 4, 8 p.m. • In The Mood for New Year’s Day with the Glenn Miller Orchestra, Thursday, Jan. 1 at 3 p.m. • Swan Lake, Saturday, Jan. 3 at 7 p.m. • Classic Seger, Friday, Jan. 9 at 7:30 p.m. • The Coral Reefer Band, Thursday, Jan. 15 at 8 p.m. • MANIA: The ABBA Tribute, Friday. Jan. 16 at 7:30 p.m. • Gregory Alan Isakov, Sunday, Jan. 18 at 8 p.m. • Morrissey, Tuesday, Jan. 20 at 8 p.m. (new date) • Forever Motown, Wednesday, Jan. 28 at 7:30 p.m. • Penn & Teller, Thursday, Jan. 29 at 8 p.m. • Neil Diamond Legacy Concert ft. Jay White, Friday, Jan. 30 at 7:30 p.m. • The Rocket Man Show, Saturday, Jan. 31 at 7:30 p.m. • Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular, Sunday, Feb. 1 at 7:30 p.m. • Shen Yun, Feb. 6-8 (4 shows) • 7 Bridges: The Ultimate EAGLES Experience, Friday, Feb.

105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Call 727-5876793 or visit www.eightoclocktheatre.com.

13 at 7:30 p.m. • Los Ángeles Azules, Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 8 p.m. • David Foster & Katharine McPhee, Friday, Feb. 20 at 8 p.m. • Il Divo by Candlelight, Sunday, Feb. 22 at 3 p.m. • The Sleeping Beauty, Thursday, March 5 at 7 p.m. • Pink Martini, Friday, March 6 at 7:30 p.m. • Fleetwood Mach, Sunday, March 15 at 7 p.m. • Magic Rocks: Illusionist Leon Etienne, Friday, March 20 at 7:30 p.m. • Ali Wong Live, Sunday, April 5 at 7 p.m. • Theresa Caputo Live, Thursday, April 23 at 7:30 p.m. • One Night of Queen, Sunday, May 10 at 7:30 p.m. • Luka Šulic, Wednesday, May 13 at 7:30 p.m. • Kashmir featuring Jean Violet (Spirit of Led Zeppelin Live), Friday, May 22 at 8 p.m. Dates, times, show description and performances are subject to change. Visit themahaffey.com.

Gulfport Community Players

West Coast Players

• “Annie,” Dec. 4-21 • “Brighton Beach Memoirs,” Jan. 15-25 • “Newsies,” Feb. 12-March 1 • “The Miracle Worker,” March 19-29 • “Grease,” April 30-May 17 Francis Wilson Playhouse is at 302 Seminole St., Clearwater. Call 727-446-1360 or visit www. franciswilsonplayhouse.org.

• “Sex Please, We’re Sixty,” Nov. 13-23 • “Beyond Therapy,” Jan. 8-18 • “Quartet,” March 12-22 • “End of the Rainbow,” June 11-21 • Summer One-act competition, July 9-19 Gulfport Community Players productions are presented at the Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport. For performance times and tickets, visit www.gulfportcommunityplayers.org.

• “Keep on Laughing,” Oct. 17-Nov. 2 • “The Humans,” Dec. 5-14 • “25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee,” Jan. 16-Feb. 1 • “The Curious Savage,” March 6-22 • “The Wanderers,” April 24-May 10 • “Lone Star” & “Laundry and Bourbon,” June 5-21 West Coast Players is at 21905 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater. For performance times and tickets, call 727-437-2363 or visit wcplayers.com.

sea Gallo TFO resident conductor, brings fresh energy to these casual, lighthearted concerts. Each performance offers a unique opportunity to connect with TFO’s extraordinary musicians, who will take center stage as featured soloists in all six concerts. The soloists will be Principal Tuba TJ Graf; Bass Clarinet Joseph Beverly; Associate Principal Horn Andrew Karr; Principal Flute Clay Ellerbroek; Principal Second Violin Sarah Shellman; and Jeffrey Stephenson on English Horn. The series kicked off on Oct. 8 and 9 with The Roaring ‘20s, which featured Cuban-born guest conductor Cosette Justo Valdes for the greatest hits of the 1720s, 1820s, 1920s and 2020s, with music ranging from Handel to John Williams. Additional concerts include A Little Night Music (Nov. 12 and 13, 2025) with music by Mozart and Tchaikovsky; H2Orchestra (Jan. 14 and 15, 2026), featuring Richard Rodgers’ Victory at Sea Medley, Handel’s Water Music and more; and Love & Destiny (Feb. 11 and 12, 2026) featuring selections from Mendelssohn’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream and Mozart’s Magic Flute Over-

ture. Femme Fatale (April 15 and 16, 2026) casts a spell with Rimsky-Korsakov’s Scheherazade and Bizet’s Carmen, and Czech It Out (May 6 and 7, 2026) brings the beauty of Bohemia with Dvorak’s Symphony No. 9 and more. The Florida Orchestra’s mission is to inspire, educate and unite to build community through the power of music. The Florida Orchestra is the largest professional orchestra in the state and the only arts organization that bridges the bay. TFO employs 70 full-time professional musicians and conductors, under the artistic leadership of internationally acclaimed Michael Francis, music director. Each season, the orchestra performs more than 100 concerts in venues throughout Tampa Bay, including a wide range of classical, popular, film and family-friendly music, as well as performances with global stars. Beyond the concert halls, TFO programs bring the transformative power of music to schools, youth and senior centers, to underserved areas and to those who would not have such opportunities otherwise. For tickets and information, visit FloridaOrchestra.org.

Indonesian-born pianist Janice Carissa joins The Florida Orchestra for Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2.

Francis Wilson Playhouse

Photo courtesy of THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA

The Florida Orchestra 2025-2026 season calendar Ruth Eckerd Hall

1111 McMullen Booth Road, Clearwater • A Little Light Music; Wednesday, Nov. 12, 11 a.m. • Holiday Pops; Sunday, Dec. 21, 2 and 7:30 p.m. • H2Orchestra; Wednesday, Jan. 14, 11 a.m. • Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloe; Sunday, Jan. 25, 7:30 p.m. • Love & Destiny; Wednesday, Feb. 11, 11 a.m. • Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1; Sunday, Feb. 22, 7:30 p.m. • Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7; Sunday, April 12, 7:30 p.m. • Femme Fatale; Wednesday, April 15, 11 a.m. • Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2; Sunday, May 3, 2 p.m. • Czech It Out; Wednesday, May 6, 11 a.m. • Brahm’s Symphony No. 4; Sunday, May 17, 2 p.m.

Mahaffey Theater

400 First St. S., St. Petersburg • Troupe Vertigo; Saturday, Nov. 1, 2 and 8 p.m. • Beethoven & Bernstein; Saturday, Nov. 8, 8 p.m. • A Little Light Music; Thursday, Nov. 13, 11 a.m. • Disco Inferno; Saturday, Nov. 15, 2 and 8 p.m. • Mozart & Handel; Sunday, Nov. 23, 2 p.m. • Handel’s Messiah; Saturday, Dec. 6, 8 p.m. • Holiday Pops; Saturday, Dec. 20, 2 and 8 p.m. • Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21; Saturday, Jan. 10, 8 p.m. • Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21; Sunday, Jan. 11, 2 p.m. • The Billy Joel Songbook; Saturday, Jan. 17, 8 p.m.

• Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloe; Saturday, Jan. 24, 8 p.m. • Love & Destiny; Thursday, Feb. 12, 11 a.m. • The Envelope Please; Saturday, Feb. 14, 2 and 8 p.m. • Bruch’s Violin Concerto No. 1; Saturday, Feb. 21, 8 p.m. • Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony; Saturday, March 21, 8 p.m. • Mozart’s Jupiter Symphony; Sunday, March 22, 2 p.m. • Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9; Saturday, March 28, 8 p.m. • Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9; Sunday, March 29, 2 p.m. • Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7; Saturday, April 11, 8 p.m. • Femme Fatale; Thursday, April 16, 11 a.m. • Bugs Bunny at the Symphony; Saturday, April 18, 2 and 8 p.m. • Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2; Saturday, May 2, 8 p.m. • Czech It Out; Thursday, May 7, 11 a.m. • America 250 — Rhapsody in Blue; Saturday, May 23, 8 p.m. • Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2; Sunday, May 31, 2 p.m.

The Straz Center

1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa • Beethoven & Bernstein; Friday, Nov. 7, 8 p.m., in Morsani Hall. • Handel’s Messiah; Friday, Dec. 5, 8 p.m. • Holiday Pops; Friday, Dec. 19, 8 p.m., in Ferguson Hall. • Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 21; Friday, Jan. 9, 8 p.m., in Morsani Hall.

• The Billy Joel Songbook; Friday, Jan. 16, 8 p.m., in Ferguson Hall. • Ravel’s Daphnis and Chloe; Friday, Jan. 23, 8 p.m., in Morsani Hall. • Beethoven’s Triple Concerto; Friday, Feb. 6, 8 p.m., in Morsani Hall. • Beethoven’s Triple Concerto; Saturday, Feb. 7, 8 p.m., in Morsani Hall. • An Evening with Audra McDonald; Saturday, Feb. 28, 8 p.m. • Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in Concert; Friday, March 13, 7:30 p.m. • Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 in Concert; Saturday, March 14, 2 p.m. • Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9; Friday, March 27, 8 p.m., in Ferguson Hall. • Beethoven’s Symphony No. 7; Friday, April 10, 8 p.m., in Ferguson Hall. • Sibelius’ Symphony No. 2; Friday, May 1, 8 p.m., in Ferguson Hall. • Brahm’s Symphony No. 4; Friday, May 15, 8 p.m., in Ferguson Hall. • America 250 — Rhapsody in Blue; Friday, May 22, 8 p.m., in Ferguson Hall. • Rachmaninoff’s Piano Concerto No. 2; Friday, May 29, 8 p.m., in Ferguson Hall. • Defying Gravity; Sunday, June 7, 2 p.m., in Morsani Hall. Dates, times, show description and performances are subject to change. Visit floridaorchestra.org.

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Dining & Entertainment

ing contest and a wing-eating contest. Admission is free. For information, visit www.eastpascochamber. org/pigz-in-zhills-bbq-blues-festival/.

FOOD, from page 5

Swine & Shine

Swine & Shine, Dunedin’s first annual boucherie, will take place on Sunday, Nov. 9, 1 to 6 p.m., on the front lawn of the Fenway Hotel, 453 Edgewater Drive, in Dunedin. Tickets are $100 and are limited. Step onto the lush front lawn of Fenway Hotel and into a celebration rooted in Cajun heritage, where food, music, and community come together in the spirit of generosity. In Louisiana culture, a “boucherie” (pronounced boo-shuh-ree) is a gathering that has long brought families and neighbors together. At Fenway, event organizers are reimagining the boucherie as an afternoon of flavors, fellowship, and philanthropy. All tickets include unlimited food and beverage samples from participating chefs and vendors. Attendees will have an opportunity to savor pork-inspired creations prepared by multiple chefs, each offering their own unique dish for sampling. Complementing the cuisine, a variety of beverage vendors will be pouring tastings to pair perfectly with the bold and savory bites. For information, visit www.fenwayhotel.com.

Dunedin Celtic Music and Craft Beer Festival

The Dunedin Scottish Arts Foundation will present the Dunedin Celtic Music and Craft Beer Festival on Saturday, Nov. 22, 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., at Highlander Park, 1920 Pinehurst Road in Dunedin. Early bird tickets start at $23.18. This annual outdoor festival features multiple musical acts. This year’s musical lineup includes Mec Lir, Jesse & Kevin, and The Devil’s Brigade. There also will be special performances by the City of Dunedin Pipe Band, Dunedin Highland Middle School and Dunedin High School. Dunedin Brewery selections for 2025 include Air Lager, Apricot Peach Ale, Beach Tale Brown Ale, Redhead Ale, and American Classic IPA. For information, visit www.dunedinsafoundation.com.

St. Petersburg Seafood & Music Festival

The St. Petersburg Seafood & Music Festival will be presented Friday through Sunday, Feb.

BROADWAY, from page 9

‘Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland’

Friday, Dec. 19, 7 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $39. This holiday season, experience the magic of cirque like never before with the all-new “Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland.” A thrilling blend of world-class circus artistry and your favorite holiday music, this spectacular production will transport you to a winter wonderland of awe and enchantment. With breathtaking acrobatics, soaring aerial performances, and an all-new production for this year, this production promises to deliver an unforgettable holiday experience.

‘Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol’

Monday, Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m.; and Tuesday, Dec. 23, 3 and 7:30 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $35. Right Angle Entertainment and Paul T. Couch are proud to present the national tour of “Dolly Parton’s Smoky Mountain Christmas Carol,” a heartwarming musical featuring music and lyrics by 11-time Grammy-winner Dolly Parton and book by David H. Bell, adapted by Bell, Couch and Curt Wollan. Set in the 1930s in the Smoky Mountains of East Tennessee, this unforgettable production and amazing cast imagines Ebenezer Scrooge as the owner of a mining company town, where his callous greed blinds him to the joys and gifts of the season. As a Christmas Eve snowstorm approaches, Scrooge is visited by his deceased business partner and three ghosts who compel him to see life anew and discover that love is the greatest gift we have.

‘Riverdance 30 — The New Generation’

Tuesday, Feb. 3, 7:30 p.m., and Wednesday, Feb. 4, 7:30 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $38. Since Riverdance first emerged onto the world stage, its fusion of Irish and international dance and music has captured the hearts of

St. Petersburg BayFest

20-22, at Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Drive NE, St. Petersburg. Hours are Friday, 4 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is $7. Indulge in a variety of delectable foods cooked on-site, featuring the freshest ingredients from local restaurants and food purveyors. Enjoy a selection of seafood entrees and vegetarian dishes, accompanied by a variety of side dishes and scrumptious desserts. Both alcoholic and nonalcoholic drinks will be available to complement your meal. The festival also features live musical performances by some of the most talented musicians from the local and regional circuit. For information, visit www.paragonfestivals. com.

The Florida Strawberry Festival

The 2026 Florida Strawberry Festival will run Feb. 26 through March 8. Event organizers recently announced the theme for its 91st annual event: “Still Growing.” “’Still Growing’ beautifully captures who we are as a Festival and as a community,” said Pam Warnock, Florida Strawberry Festival chairman of the board. “We are growing in the number of guests we welcome, in the rides and attractions

millions worldwide. The Grammy award-winning music and the infectious energy of its mesmerizing choreography and breathtaking performances has left audiences in awe and established Riverdance as a global cultural sensation. To celebrate this incredible 30th year milestone, Riverdance will embark on a special anniversary tour, bringing its magic to audiences around the world. This spectacular production rejuvenates the much-loved original show with new innovative choreography and costumes and state-of-the-art lighting, projection and motion graphics. And for the first time Riverdance welcomes “The New Generation” of performers, all of whom were not born when the show began 30 years ago.

Matthew Morrison

Thursday, Feb. 5 at 8 p.m., at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre. Tickets start at $55. Matthew Morrison is a versatile actor who is recognized for his work on-stage and on-screen. He has been nominated for Tony, Emmy and Golden Globe Awards. Morrison made his debut on Broadway in “Footloose” but his big break came when he was cast as heartthrob Link Larkin in the hit “Hairspray.” Morrison was later nominated for a Tony Award for his role in “The Light in the Piazza” and received a Drama Desk Nomination for Outstanding Actor in a Musical for “10 Million Miles.”

Chazz Palminteri’s ‘A Bronx Tale’

Friday, Feb. 6, 7:30 p.m., at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre. Tickets start at $59. The original one-man show written for the stage and performed by Academy Award-nominated actor Chazz Palminteri, returns to Clearwater for one performance. Well known for “A Bronx Tale,” Palminteri originally wrote the script for the stage and in 1989, he performed it as a one-man show in Los Angeles. He famously refused increasing sums of money to sell the story rights to all the major film studios. He wanted to write and star in it himself.

‘Tina — The Tina Turner Musical’ Thursday, Feb. 19, 7:30 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd

we offer, in our agriculture and livestock shows, and in the strawberries that make Plant City so special. Each year we continue to evolve, and this theme reminds us that our story is still being written.” A new theme is created for each year’s festival to offer patrons a glimpse of the experience they will have at the 11-day event. It also unifies vendors, FFA chapters, organizations, corporate partners and exhibitors, who create parade floats and displays throughout the event. The Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day community event celebrating the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. Each year, more than 600,000 visitors enjoy the festival’s headline entertainment, youth livestock shows, exhibits of commerce and, its strawberry shortcake. For information, visit flstrawberryfestival.com.

Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival

The 16th annual Pigz in Z’Hills BBQ & Blues Festival will take place on Saturday, Feb. 28, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., on Fifth Avenue in downtown Zephyrhills. Presented by the Greater East Pasco Chamber of Commerce, the festival features barbeque vendors, a blues concert, a kids’ zone, a hog-call-

St. Petersburg BayFest will be presented Friday through Sunday, March 20-22, at Albert Whitted Park, 480 Bayshore Drive SE, St. Petersburg. Hours are Friday, 4 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free. This exciting new festival promises a weekend filled with delicious seafood, live music, and vibrant community spirit. Attendees will have an opportunity to indulge in a diverse menu of seafood, meat, and vegetarian dishes, all cooked fresh onsite by local restaurants and food vendors. Complement your meal with a variety of side dishes, scrumptious desserts, and refreshing beverages, including both alcoholic and nonalcoholic options. Some of Florida’s top musicians will perform throughout the weekend. In addition to the fantastic food and music, explore a marketplace of arts, crafts, and specialty products. For information, visit www.paragonfestivals. com.

Clearwater Seafood & Music Festival

The Clearwater Seafood & Music Festival will take place Friday through Sunday, April 24-26, at Coachman Park, 300 Cleveland St., Clearwater. Hours are Friday, 4 to 10 p.m.; Saturday, 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.; and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Admission is free. Coachman Park will come alive with the irresistible aroma of fresh seafood and the sounds of live music drifting across the bay. Feast on savory favorites like grilled lobster, shrimp skewers, oysters, crab cakes, and more — prepared by some of Florida’s top seafood chefs and local restaurants. Pair your meal with a cold craft beer or tropical cocktail and enjoy the sunshine with friends and family in one of the most beautiful waterfront parks on the Gulf Coast. The music lineup will feature a mix of rock, reggae, blues, and country artists. For information, visit www.paragonfestivals. com.

Hall. Tickets start at $35. An uplifting comeback story like no other, “Tina — The Tina Turner Musical” is the inspiring journey of a woman who broke barriers and became the “Queen of Rock n’ Roll.” Set to the pulse-pounding soundtrack of her most beloved hits, this electrifying sensation will send you soaring to the rafters. One of the world’s best-selling artists of all time, Tina Turner won 12 Grammy Awards, and her live shows were seen by millions, with more concert tickets sold than any other solo performer in music history.

Relive the magic of the legendary folk-rock duo! The internationally acclaimed hit theater show “The Simon & Garfunkel Story” returns to Clearwater with an immersive concert-style tribute show, complete with nostalgia-inducing, unforgettable hits. The production recreates the magic and authenticity of Paul Simon and Art Garfunkel live on stage and chronicles the amazing journey of the iconic, Grammy-award winning act.

‘Masters of Illusion’

April 1-5, at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $40 Pop the champagne, “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” is the winner of 10 Tony Awards, including Best Musical. The show invites audiences into a world of splendor and romance, of eye-popping excess, of glitz, grandeur, and glory. A world where Bohemians and aristocrats rub elbows and revel in electrifying enchantment. Baz Luhrmann’s revolutionary film comes to life onstage, remixed in a new musical mash-up extravaganza. Directed by Tony Award winner Alex Timbers, “Moulin Rouge! The Musical” features book by Tony Award winner John Logan; music supervision, orchestrations, and arrangements by Tony Award winner Justin Levine; and choreography by Tony Award winner Sonya Tayeh.

Thursday, March 17, 7 p.m., at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Tickets start at $35 Only the best, most unique, amusing, astounding and amazing performers have been chosen to perform in “Masters of Illusion.” The production is a huge stage phenomenon born from the multi- award-winning television series “Masters of Illusion.” Starring the world’s greatest award-winning magicians, this 21st century magic show is unlike anything you have seen before — filled with modern illusions and arts of deception, performed live on stage.

‘The Simon & Garfunkel Story’

Thursday, March 26 at 7:30 p.m., at the Bilheimer Capitol Theatre. Tickets start at $39

‘Moulin Rouge! The Musical’

Welcome Back 2025

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Health & Wellness

The get-fit guide for seniors By NANETTE WISER

TBN Correspondent

Classes, clubs and low-impact exercises available all around Pinellas

Photo by JEFF ROSENFIELD/TBN

begin with gentle exercises and gradually progress as their strength and flexibility improve by working with a qualified instructor who can tailor exercises to your needs. Seniors should pay attention to their bodies and rest when necessary. Stretching & Strength Training: If core strength or balance are issues, consider asking your primary care doctor for a physical therapy referral to an accredited organization such as CORE or Fyzical. For strength training, ask your gym to create a personalized plan. The best weightlifting routine for seniors involves strength training two to three times per week, starting with a warm-up and focusing on proper form with light weights. A balanced routine includes both upper and lower body exercises, such as squats, presses, and rows, performing one to two sets of eight to 12 repetitions with proper form before gradually increasing sets, reps, and weight. Always allow for rest days between workouts and consult a doctor before starting a new exercise program. Swimming & Water Aerobics: The best water exercises for seniors include foundational movements like water walking,

The Silver Sneakers Cardio Fit class at the Aging Well Center in Clearwater is one of several exercise classes offered through the program that help improve fitness, health and quality of life for seniors.

See GUIDE, page 3

Motion is lotion for aching joints and soul food for mental health and wellness. There are dozens of ways you can exercise around Pinellas County and hundreds of YouTube videos for at-home exercise including Walk At Home, Denise Austin’s dance and chair yoga with gentle poses such as Mountain, Tree, or Sphinx. Bad weather? Walk the mall or dance around your house. If you sit and watch TV or read a lot, try standing every 30 minutes and reach up to the ceiling and roll your shoulders. Make exercise more fun with a friend and start moving with these senior-friendly workouts.

Senior-friendly exercise ideas

Dance: Turn up Frank Sinatra at home, join a local dance club or check out Bayou Dance Club, Corinne Rungo’s Dance classes in Clearwater or Magic Dance Club in Largo. Jazzercise Tarpon Springs Community Center offers classes for all ages and levels. If you like to polka, square dance or swing dance, there’s a club for that as well. Check out Tampa Bay Square Dance Revival at facebook.com/TampaBaySquare DanceRevival/ Pilates: Seniors should

Shine Some Light On Your Business! Want thousands of readers to learn more about you? Advertise in the Beacon or Bee by calling 727-322-6900

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GUIDE, from page 2 aqua jogging, and leg lifts to build leg strength, balance, and cardiovascular fitness. Upper body strength can be developed through exercises such as arm curls and wall push-ups, while flutter kicks and water marching improve core and lower body strength. Always start slow, maintain good posture, and consider using a kickboard or flotation devices for added support. Tai Chi: Tai chi movements help seniors coordinate their movements and improve their sense of balance. It also can reduce falls by improving balance and flexibility. Walking Clubs: Suncoast Sandpipers Walking Club offers noncompetitive walks and is a member of the American Volkssport Association. Visit suncoastsandpipers.org/ to learn more. Clear Skies Walking Club is a community for exploring Pinellas County and sharing walking adventures. Visit facebook.com/groups/ clearskieswalkingclub/ or check out Facebook for local walking club meetups in Pinellas County. Yoga: Chair yoga is a low-impact form of exercise that improves muscle strength,

Health & Wellness

mobility, balance, and flexibility, all of which are crucial health aspects for seniors

Resources

In addition to the places and organizations listed below, there are so many senior-friendly options. Local museums like The Dali offer yoga and if you are up to bowling, there are senior leagues and discounts. Google and check Facebook for location, services and addresses. AARP Florida: An excellent membership for so many reasons, great newsletters and online exercise classes. AARP offers fitness options in Florida through its Active & Fit Direct program for gym discounts, online resources like the AARP Fitness Center and virtual classes, and community programs such as Walk with a Doc and local AARP Fitness Parks. https://local.aarp.org/st-petersburg-fl/fitness/ Area Agency on Aging of Pasco Pinellas: Offers support and classes for fall prevention (Enhanced Fitness) and managing diabetes that includes exercise, nutrition and more to help you stay healthy. www. agingcarefl.org/for-older-adults. html

Clearwater Aging Well Center The city of Clearwater Parks and Recreation provides programs for older adults including walking-related activities. Healthy St. Pete: A division of the St. Petersburg Parks and Recreation Department purveying free workouts in the park (yoga, heart health, tai chi, Zumba) and healthy walks programs with meeting places like the Sunshine Senior Center. National Council on Aging: The Center for Healthy Aging supports the expansion and sustainability of evidence-based health promotion programs in the community through collaboration with national, state, and community partners to help older adults live healthier lives. www.ncoa.org/professionals/health/center-for-healthyaging/ Pinellas Park Senior Center: You can play bingo, watch movies, do chair yoga or Zumba and test out cardio drumming. Play Largo: Largo seniors can attend free fitness classes like aquatic exercise, pickleball, line dancing, tai chi, and yoga with eligible healthcare programs at Largo Community Center, Highland Recreation Complex, and Southwest Rec-

reation Complex. Sunshine City Center: St. Petersburg seniors can enjoy ongoing fitness activities including chair volleyball, ping pong, ageless grace fun fitness and an arthritis exercise class. There’s even a BINGO-Cize exercise and nutrition class. www.sunshinecenterfriends. org/ Silver Sneakers: For those 65 and older with Medicare, you have options to enjoy video on demand or online classes as well as in-person. Call ahead and see if an independent or chain fitness venue accepts your membership. Silver Fit is part of BayCare+ and Silver

Sneakers are part of many Medicaire Advantage Plans. Check out Anytime Fitness, Crunch Fitness, Curves, LA Fitness, Gold’s Gym, Planet Fitness, Snap Fitness, local recreation programs and smaller gyms. You can belong to more than one on most plans. YMCA of Greater St. Petersburg: Join the Y and you’ll discover classes designed for active older adults, including yoga, dance, low-impact cardio and water aerobics — plus social activities like pickleball, volunteering and group outings where you can make friends during your journey to health. There are classes for those

living with Parkinson’s, dealing with diabetes, fall prevention and for those recovering from cancer (Live Strong). YMCA of the Suncoast: In addition to low-impact classes, this Y offers Moving for Better Balance twice a week for 12 weeks and teaches an eight-form routine of Tai Chibased movements modified specifically for fall prevention. The YMCA Survivorship & Wellness Program powered by Moffitt serves people affected by cancer and empowers them to reclaim their health and well-being. https://www. ymcasuncoast.org/locations/ all-branches

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Health & Wellness

Giving blood a healthy service By TOM GERMOND

TBN Correspondent

There are numerous healthy benefits to giving blood as many regular donors know. One Blood, a nonprofit blood donation organization based in Florida that provides blood products to hospitals and medical centers in the state and also in Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina, offers a lot of information about its services on its website. Each time donors give blood they receive free wellness checkups that include blood pressure checks, pulse, temperature, iron counts and cholesterol screenings. Many prospective donors for the first time learned they had high blood pressure, low iron or heart arrhythmia during the health screening and sought medical care.

Some of those who donated found they had cholesterol levels exceeding a combined HDL/LDL of 400. “Since these biometric measures can change during our lifetime, volunteering to donate blood regularly is a no-cost way to monitor your health,” said One Blood spokesman Dan Eberts, now retired, on One Blood’s website. Studies have shown that donating blood can be good for your heart. Former OneBlood medical director, Dr. Richard Gammon, wrote that studies have shown blood donors enjoy better health and blood donations reduces blood pressure. High blood pressure or hypertension is one of the leading risks for heart attacks and there is evidence that regular blood donations may be beneficial. Being a regular

donor may help with blood flow and reduce arterial blockages. One in three people will need to have transfusions in their lifetime. There are no substitutes for blood. It can’t be manufactured or produced in a laboratory. Some people with health issues, such as diabetics, may be surprised to learn they can donate blood. One Blood also has numerous platelet donors. During platelet donations, blood banks collect platelets returning the rest of the blood to the donor’s body. Platelets are tiny cells in blood that form clots and stop bleeding. The donation process is known as automation or apheresis. Donating platelets takes an estimated three hours, with the donation itself typically lasting about 1 1/2 hours. See BLOOD, page 7

Welcome Back 2025

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Health & Wellness

Staying healthy by giving back By NANETTE WISER

TBN Correspondent

Pinellas County has scores of volunteer opportunities available

Photo courtesy of PARC

environments for survivors of domestic violence and their children. https://casapinellas. org/ DayStar Life: This community-based nonprofit organization provides essential resources to create brighter futures for everyone. There’s a garden that needs tending, events and many volunteer opportunities. https://daystarlife. org/volunteer/ Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside: Whether you are a builder or have never used a hammer, you can make a difference in your community by working aside builders or helping with events. https://habitattbg.org/volunteer/ Seniors in Service Tampa Bay: Founded in 1984, this organization connects volunteers, age 55 and older, to meet the needs and challenges of at-risk seniors, veterans and children in our community. You can be a valued helper to a homebound senior, a cherished mentor to a struggling child or an appreciated companion to an at-risk veteran. SIS matches your unique skills, abilities and interests with a volunteer opportunity. https://seniorsinservice. org/volunteer-opportunities/pinellas-volunteer-opportunities/ Lunch Pals: Love kids? Look into Lunch Pals where you can give 30 minutes weekly to meet with a student during their lunch break. Or you can tutor and assist children K-3 through video calls, individually or in small groups, to help them develop their literacy, social and emotional skills. Hope Villages of America: Help the homeless with their food bank (stock food, sort donations), Grace House emergency housing for homeless families (tutor students, youth program, general maintenance and landscaping) and The Haven domestic violence center. Health Buddies: You can

Gardening work with PARC Center for Disabilities is just one of many volunteer opportunities that can make a difference in the community.

See GIVING, page 7

Whether you’re working part time or retired, there are 101 ways you can make new social connections and give back to your community if you’re a senior. Volunteering benefits your physical and mental health and research shows it reduces depression, isolation and anxiety while just being fun. There’s a volunteer opportunity for every passion — plants, pets, art, music and more. If you are a member of a church or synagogue, ask about opportunities to volunteer there or in the community. Here’s some ideas to get you started.

Pinellas County

Volunteers in Pinellas is a one-stop shop of volunteer opportunities for a day, with a group and in so many other ways, helping at Fort De Soto, Heritage Village, Animal Services and more. https://pinellas. gov/programs/volunteers-in-pinellas/

Pinellas County Schools

Whether you have an hour a week or more to give, there’s a place for you to get involved and make a meaningful impact. You can be a mentor or resiliency coach; a classroom or front office assistant; a field trip chaperone, a guest speaker, an athletic coach, or a college and career center adviser.

Community Service

Food Insecurity: Feeding Tampa Bay, Metropolitan Ministries, 360 Eats!, The Kind Mouse and most of the area’s food banks are in need of volunteers to gather, organize and distribute food especially ahead of the holiday season. CASA Pinellas: Volunteer opportunities include thrift store support, community education, outreach support, crisis intervention and providing safe

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GIVING, from page 6 help brighten the day of seniors in assisted living communities through companionship, crafts, games and books. Health Buddies helps reduce preventable hospital readmissions for individuals living with chronic conditions through telephone interventions that empower them to self-manage their health. Volunteers are trained to provide support to help clients live independently, with dignity. Ronald McDonald House Charities Tampa Bay: Helping families while their children are treated for medical issues nationally and in Tampa Bay, the Pinellas County locations need volunteers for the house, the desk assisting live-in families, kitchen support and picking up supplies for resident families. https://rmhctampabay.org/st-pete/ PARC Center for Disabilities You can help with events, group projects and one-on-one

BLOOD, from page 4 Platelets must be transfused within five days and are always in demand, One Blood notes. One Blood has locations throughout Pinellas County and operates a mobile Big Red Bus. The Clearwater donor center is at 1680 S. Missouri Ave., the Palm Harbor Donor Center is at 33825 U.S. Highway 19, the St. Petersburg Tyrone Donor Center is at 6808 22nd Ave. and the St. Petersburg

Health & Wellness opportunities such as story time, teaching art or reading, gardening, grant writing or administrative support. www. parc-fl.org/

Mother Nature

From parks to preserves, you can volunteer to get your hands dirty, assist with events and more at Sunken Gardens, Florida Botanical Gardens, Brooker Creek and Weedon preserves. Local and county parks can all use your help. Help save our turtles and beaches with local organizations such as Keep Pinellas Beautiful, Tampa Bay Watch or Sea Turtle Trackers.

Arts & Culture

Most of the museums are looking for volunteers to give docent tours, help with events and fundraising. If you have an artistic skill, look into the Morean Arts Center and Center for Clay, Dunedin Fine Art Center or Safety Harbor Art & Music Main Donor Center is at 9900 Dr. MLK Jr. St. N. Blood drives also are held at different locations. Visit OneBlood.org for more information about blood centers and their hours of operation.

Some statistics • Approximately 62% of the population is eligible to donate blood. • Every two seconds of every day, someone needs blood.

Photo courtesy of PALM HARBOR MUSEUM

At a Garden Workday, volunteers work to landscape the area at the Palm Harbor Museum. This Keep Pinellas Beautiful workday was organized by KPB garden ambassador Traci Sutton. Center, which offers dozens of classes. Love music and performance? The Al Downing • Only 3% of those who are eligible actually donate blood. • More than 25% of the blood supply is used by patients battling cancer. • One out of every 83 childbirths will require a blood transfusion. • The second most common medical procedure in U.S. hospitals is the transfusion of blood and blood products. • 3.2% of the blood supply is used to treat pediatric patients.

Tampa Bay Jazz Association, The Palladium, the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts and Mahaffey Theater, freeFall

Theater, American Stage, Studio @620, Central Parks Performing Arts Center and Tarpon Performing Arts Center want you to usher, help with events and more. Clearwater Jazz Holiday has all-year needs for their CJH Foundation as does Al Downing Tampa Bay Jazz Association and Suncoast Jazz Festival. If books and reading out loud to children make you happy, visit your local library to see if they need after-school tutoring, shelving, sorting donations and other services. A little free library needs restocking and if there’s not one in your neighborhood, considering gathering the neighbors to build one.

Animal Rescue

Our fur babies need you, from volunteering in shelters to fostering and gathering supplies and services. Friends of Strays, Fluff Animal Rescue, Humane Society of Pinellas, Safe Paws Dog Rescue, Pet

Pal Animal Shelter, SPCA Tampa Bay, CJ Paws, Pawlife Rescue Group and others need your help. At Seaside Bird Sanctuary, you can help with rescue, operations, education, hospital care, gift shop and special events. Also check out Clearwater Marine Aquarium and Tampa Bay Watch & Discovery Center. Check out Dogs, Inc. if you are interested in training a service animal or helping with their events.

Health & Wellness

From the Y to city recreation programs, senior health expos and local farmer markets and festivals, there are dozens of ways to help out. Check out Shopapalooza and Localtopia, area libraries and free events (yoga at the Pier, at the beach) to see how you can get involved. Local hospitals need your help as well for guest services, visiting patients, gift shop and more. https://baycare.org/ about-us/volunteering/volunteer-opportunities

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Medicare enrollment has begun By DONNA WINCHESTER

Special to the Tampa Bay Times

Annual changes in Medicare rules, costs and benefits can be challenging, but for the more than 68 million Americans 65 and older expected to participate in the federal health insurance program in 2026, the road may be more difficult to navigate than usual. Premiums and other out-ofpocket costs for Medicare Part B and Part D are increasing more than they have in recent years, while deductibles, outof-pocket maximums and other costs are rising as well. Meanwhile, uncertainty across the health insurance market due to changes enacted by the Trump administration and the “One Big Beautiful Bill Act” are making plan choices and access to care more complicated. The open enrollment period begins Oct. 15. Eligible individuals have until Dec. 7 to update plans as well as switch from Original Medicare to Medicare Advantage; from Medicare Advantage to Original Medicare; from one Medicare Part D prescription drug plan to another; and enroll in a Medicare Part D plan if they did not enroll when they first became eligible for Medicare. Whether you are a first-time Medicare enrollee or looking to change your plan, it makes

Costs are on the rise. But prices on some drugs are expected to drop

sense to do your homework during open enrollment. The Tampa Bay Times’ Medicare Guide breaks down the various parts of Medicare and offers charts for plan comparison to help beneficiaries. Here are some key points to keep in mind.

What’s new for 2026

Nearly all Medicare enrollees pay nothing for Medicare Part A, which covers inpatient hospital care, skilled nursing facility care, hospice care and home health care. For the small percentage who pay premiums, the amount for 2026 is projected to be either $310

or $563 per month, based on earning history, up from $285 or $518 per month in 2025. The Medicare Part A deductible for 2026 is projected to be $1,716, an increase from the $1,676 deductible in 2025. This deductible applies per benefit period, not per calendar year. Premiums for Medicare Part B, the monthly cost you pay for doctor visits, preventive care and medical equipment, are projected to rise from $185 to $206.50. That’s an 11.6% increase over the 2025 premium, the largest since 2022. These costs are calculated annually to ensure the Part B trust fund

remains solvent, though it can result in higher costs for beneficiaries. The Part B deductible, the amount you’ll pay out of pocket before Medicare starts paying for services like doctor visits and medical equipment, is expected to increase by 12%, from $257 to $288. Many Medicare Advantage plans have copays and deductibles that don’t necessarily increase in lockstep with the Medicare Part B deductible, so while those benefit designs fluctuate from year to year, the changes aren’t the same as the deductible and copay changes that apply to Original Medicare. The Medicare Part D base premium, a standardized monthly amount used by Medicare to estimate costs for prescription drug coverage, is expected to be $38.99, a 6% increase over 2025, although actual premiums vary by plan. The standard Part D deductible, the amount you’ll pay out of pocket for prescription drugs before your insurance coverage begins to pay, is expected to increase 4.2%, from $590 to $615. On the bright side, prices for at least 10 drugs are slated to fall, with more reductions to come. The Inflation Reduction Act first gave Medicare the authority to directly negotiate the price of high-cost, single-source drugs with pharmaceutical manufacturers in 2023 rather than relying on commercial prices set by private health insurance companies. The first negotiated prices will take effect in 2026, applying to prescriptions including Eliquis, used to prevent blood clots and stroke; Enbrel, for rheumatoid arthritis and psoriasis; and Jardiance, for Type 2 diabetes and heart failure. Weight loss drugs Ozempic, Rybelsus and Wegovy will be added to the list in 2027. Insulin costs should drop below the $35-per-month cap the Inflation Reduction Act set in 2023 for supplies covered under Part B and Part D. Starting in January, this cap gets more flexible to allow for deeper savings. Medicare enrollees will pay either $35 per month; 25% of the maximum fair price established for the covered insulin product under the Medicare Drug Price Negotiation Program; or 25% of the negotiated price under the standalone Medicare prescription drug plan or Medicare Advantage plan with prescription drug coverage, whichever is the least amount. In 2025, a new approach replaced previous Medicare Part D phases, which describe the different stages of cost-sharing for prescription drugs within a calendar year. Those phases typically include a deductible phase, an initial coverage phase, and a catastrophic coverage phase. The updated structure included a lower out-of-pocket threshold for entering the catastrophic phase. That threshold will increase in 2026 from $2,000 to $2,100, which means you’ll be liable for an additional $100 in drug costs over the year in 2026. If you have a Medicare Advantage drug plan or a standalone Part D plan that requires a deductible, you’ll pay 100% of your prescription drug costs until you spend the $615 Part D deductible. You’ll pay 25% coinsurance for covered drugs until you’ve paid $2,100 out of pocket. After you’ve hit the $2,100 threshold, you’ll pay nothing else out of pocket for 2026. Another change for 2026 concerns the Medicare Pre-

scription Payment Plan, which allows you to spread your out-of-pocket prescription drug costs across the calendar year instead of paying everything at once at the pharmacy if you have a Part D plan. Once you enroll in the plan, you’ll stay enrolled unless you opt out. You’ll get a renewal notice at the end of each election period informing you of any new terms or conditions. Amid political scrutiny, public skepticism and internal upheaval, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices voted in September to recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for adults 65 and older. The Inflation Reduction Act eliminated deductibles, copays and coinsurance for all adult vaccines recommended by the committee in 2023, and this rule will stay in effect in 2026. But with some GOP leaders pushing for vaccine restrictions and others warning of public health dangers, the economics of ordering and storing vaccines has become more difficult, and some healthcare advocates predict this could lead to vaccine shortages. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services announced in April a 7.2% increase in payments to Medicare Advantage plans, an increase larger than the 4.3% predicted in January. The increase translates to an additional $35 billion to Medicare Advantage plans in 2026. While increased funding raises concerns about the rising cost to the federal government, it can lead to better benefits like dental, vision, and hearing care, more stable or lower premiums for enrollees, and a wider selection of plans.

Higher costs and scaling back on plans

Another bright spot: The maximum out-of-pocket limit for in-network services covered under Medicare Part A and Part B on Medicare Advantage plans will decrease slightly to $9,250 in 2026. Unlike most years when the out-of-pocket limit has increased, the 2026 limit is a reduction from the $9,350 limit that applied in 2025. But in addition to cost increases for Part B premiums, there are other changes that Medicare Advantage enrollees should be aware of, such as higher out-of-pocket co-pay costs, alterations to supplemental benefits, and a scaling back or elimination of some plans. While a big enticement of these plans is that they typically include coverage for benefits not included in traditional Medicare, such as drug coverage, eyeglasses, dental coverage and gym memberships, enrollees in 2026 plans can anticipate higher out-of-pocket co-pay costs in some plans or removal of certain benefits. New guardrails will be in place on what Medicare Advantage plans can offer under Special Supplemental Benefits for the Chronically Ill. These nonmedical benefits are supposed to contribute to the well-being and functioning of people with certain chronic conditions. Starting in 2026, the plans cannot cover unhealthful food, alcohol, tobacco or life insurance. The new provisions continue a trend that has seen private insurers pare back Medicare Advantage plan supplemental benefits in recent years, including those for over-the-counter medications, transportation services, nutrition services and meals. The most concerning issue for Medicare Advantage enrollees is plan discontinuations.

Citing financial pressures, some major insurers, including UnitedHealthcare and Aetna, are leaving the Medicare Advantage marketplace, affecting more than 1 million current enrollees who will need to find new coverage. As Humana exits what it calls “certain unprofitable plans and counties,” it expects a decline of roughly 560,000 members. Other insurers are retooling their Medicare Advantage plans, which translates to scaled-back offerings and higher deductibles. The nonprofit Center for Medicare Advocacy notes that while Medicare Advantage has been extremely profitable for most insurers for a long time, the companies have complained about people using more healthcare services than they anticipated and the rising cost of healthcare across the board. Medicare Advantage enrollees need to be aware that if a plan is canceled, they will not be moved to another plan automatically and could revert to Original Medicare. They could experience a loss of coverage for their doctors and prescription drugs, and some may lose the out-of-pocket cap provided by Medicare Advantage plans. What this adds up to is a clear need to research options, familiarize yourself with Medicare changes, and make decisions based on best- or worst-case health scenarios. You may want to begin by assessing your current and future healthcare needs, considering new diagnoses, planned procedures, necessary medications and preferred providers.

Enter enrollment armed with knowledge

If you are enrolled in a Medicare plan, be sure to review your Annual Notice of Change, which will include any changes in coverage and costs that will be effective in January. If you do not receive this notice, contact your plan provider. Read the “Medicare and You” handbook, an official publication from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services that provides information about Original Medicare and available Medicare plans in your area. Use the Medicare Plan Finder, which allows you to compare provider networks, prescription drug coverage and supplemental benefits for any new plan you are considering. New for 2026, this tool will include a provider directory feature, an expanded display of Medicare Advantage supplemental benefits, and an AI-powered drug search tool for personalized cost information. The provider directory, launched by the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services in August, allows users to find Medicare Advantage plans that include their preferred doctors. An additional feature launched Oct. 1 shows detailed cost-sharing information and prior authorization requirements for those benefits. The State Health Insurance Assistance Program offers free, unbiased, one-on-one counseling and assistance to Medicare beneficiaries, their families, and caregivers to help them understand Medicare, Medicare Advantage, prescription drug coverage, Medigap plans, and long-term care insurance. Managed by the Administration for Community Living, the program provides services through trained and certified local counselors in all 50 states. While using the Plan Finder, be sure to check each plan’s star ratings, a system the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services uses to measure how well Medicare Advantage and Part D plans perform in several categories, including quality of care and customer service. Ratings range from one to five stars, with five being the highest and one being the lowest. If you’re still confused, Florida’s SHINE program is a free offering from the Florida Department of Elder Affairs and the local Area Agency on Aging. Specially trained volunteers can assist with Medicare, Medicaid, and health insurance questions by providing one-onone counseling and information. SHINE services are free, unbiased, and confidential. Visit the website or call 1-800963-5337 toll-free.

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Program offers help for at-home care By ERIKA KENGNI

Tampa Bay Times

After an initial pilot program, Medicare has introduced a new model for treating patients with dementia this year. The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience Model, called GUIDE, is a voluntary program that covers the cost of at-home nursing care. The goal is to offer respite for caregivers and trained care for patients. It “aims to improve quality of life for people with dementia, reduce strain on their unpaid caregivers, and enable people with dementia to remain in their homes and communities,” according to Medicare, the federal health insurance program for Americans 65 or older. This is the first time Medicare is paying for at-home care for dementia patients. Paul Lallanilla, the owner of Right at Home Pasco, has been helping patients enroll in the program. His business provides at-home care for seniors and adults with disabilities. Lallanilla said that with more Americans living longer, Medicare is facing ballooning costs from dementia care. GUIDE is one way to find some financial relief, said Lallanilla. GUIDE covers up to 70 hours of at-home nursing care for qualifying dementia patients per year. Patients can enroll only if they are covered by Medicare, not including a third-party Medicare Advantage plan. While those living in assisted living facilities are not eligible for GUIDE, if patients

Medicare covering the cost of nursing care for dementia patients

Photo by IVY CEBALLO/Tampa Bay Times

A patient room is seen at Moffitt McKinley Hospital in Tampa. The Guiding an Improved Dementia Experience Model, called GUIDE, is a voluntary program that covers the cost of at-home nursing care. The goal is to offer respite for caregivers and trained care for patients. are discharged, they can apply. After patients submit an application, it can sometimes take weeks to get approved, said Lallanilla. Companies like Lallanilla’s contract with Medicare to provide the GUIDE at-home care services. There are more than

300 GUIDE partner organizations this year, which can be found on a map on the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services website. Caregivers are typically family members or friends of patients who step up to help them as they struggle with dementia,

Older children could qualify for free swim lessons By CHRISTINE SEXTON

Florida Phoenix

The state received 18,207 applications for the swimming vouchers last fiscal year and awarded nearly 5,000 to low-income families with children ages 1-4, Florida Department of Health data show. Another 6,801 swim vouchers applications were submitted to the state during August. The DOH is expected to award the vouchers in the coming weeks and reopen the application process for vouchers in the coming months. The DOH swim voucher website says that in Florida, drowning is the leading cause of unintentional death to children ages 1-4 and that home swim-

ming pools are where most children are likely to drown. That is not to say, though, that drownings don’t occur in natural bodies of water. The presentation on the swim voucher program comes as St. Augustine Republican Rep. Kim Kendall has filed legislation to open the program to more children. The bill revises eligibility for the program allowing children up to age 7 to qualify for the swim vouchers. Passed by the Legislature in 2024 and initially appropriated $500,000, the program was established for children living in families earning 200% of the federal poverty level or less — $64,300 for a family of four. The Legislature doubled the funding for the program in

the fiscal year 2025-26 to $1 million and made the vouchers a priority for children with autism and in active-duty military families.

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention data show:

• Drowning is the leading cause of death for children ages 1-4 • It is the second-leading cause of death for children ages 5-14 • More than 4,000 unintentional deaths annually are attributed to drowning. The CDC advises that greater access to swimming lessons is key in curbing the rise in drowning deaths.

said Lallanilla. They are unpaid and often dedicate most of their time to helping their loved one, often at the cost of their

own well-being. “We see that a lot. We see the spouse of someone with Alzheimer’s, you can go into

the house, they look like they’re in worse shape than the person with Alzheimer’s because they’re not taking care of themselves,” said Lallanilla. One of the biggest strengths of the GUIDE model, said Lallanilla, was how it provided relief for these patient caregivers. If they are afraid to leave their loved one alone to go to the grocery store or run an errand, Lallinalla’s company can send a trained nurse to their home and Medicare will pay for it. GUIDE also provides caregivers with a licensed nurse to call in case of emergencies and training on how to care for their loved ones. Rhonda Richards, the director of government affairs at the AARP, welcomes the training. “We just put out a new study last week that showed that family caregivers too often are not getting training on these kind of things. In one case, it’s 11%, in another case, it’s 22%,” said Richards. With the benefit of being able to keep the patient at home, it will improve the quality of life for many who otherwise would have to transition to nursing home care, Lallanilla said. He said the program has already been making a difference in the Tampa Bay area. “From the reports I’ve seen,” Lallinalla said, “The caregivers are doing better.”

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Health & Wellness

Here’s the latest on the updated COVID-19 vaccine tions have issued their own recommendations that contradict new messaging from the federal government. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends routine COVID-19 vaccines for all children ages 6 months through 23 months and for kids ages 2 to 18 in some situations including if they’re at high risk of COVID-19, have never been vaccinated against it or live in a household with people who are high risk. And the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists recommends that anyone pregnant or lactating receive updated or “booster” COVID-19 vaccines. Dr. Tina Tan, president of the Infectious Disease Society of America, said the FDA’s decision to limit the COVID-19 vaccine’s approval “contradicts the evidence base, severely undermines trust in science-driven policy and dangerously limits vaccine access.”

By MADISON CZOPEK

PolitiFact

Winter is approaching. U.S. COVID-19 cases are rising. Questions about accessing protective vaccines are swirling. Almost five years since the first U.S. patient got vaccinated to help stem what was then a raging coronavirus pandemic, doctors, patients and pharmacists are navigating a radically different public health landscape. If all that leaves you wondering about your ability to get a COVID-19 shot, you’re not alone. It’s confusing. We sought answers.

Q: Who can get a COVID-19 vaccine?

First, what we do know: The FDA approved the 2025-26 vaccines for anyone age 65 and older and any person 6 months and older who has at least one underlying health condition that increases their risk of severe COVID-19 infection. So, people in those groups should be able to schedule vaccinations as soon as health care providers who are authorized to administer the vaccine receive it. On Oct. 6, the CDC recommended the vaccines for everyone 6 months and older based on “shared clinical decision-making,” which references providers including physicians, nurses, and pharmacists. According to the CDC, “it means that the clinical decision to vaccinate should be based on patient characteristics that unlike age are difficult to incorporate in recommendations, including risk factors for the underlying disease as well as the characteristics of the vaccine itself and the best available evidence of who may benefit from vaccination.”

Q: I don’t fit into an at-risk category. Am I banned from getting a COVID-19 vaccine?

No, but it may require more legwork on your end. You’ll need to consult your doctor if you don’t fall within the categories the FDA specified. “Physicians can prescribe medications and vaccines that are beyond the label, beyond the license,” said Dr. William Schaffner, Vanderbilt University Medical Center professor of infectious diseases. That’s true for adults and children — and the practice of prescribing medications and vaccines

Q: What qualifies as an underlying health condition that puts someone at higher risk?

for “off-label” use is fairly common in pediatrics, he said.

Q: OK, so will insurance still cover COVID-19 vaccinations under these new rules?

If you’re in one of the two FDA-approved categories the outlook is probably better than if you’re not. The CDC’s vaccine recommendations typically include a provision for what’s known as “shared clinical decision making,” Schaffner said. That means, for example, “If you were 52 years old and otherwise healthy, but you nonetheless wanted to get the vaccine, you could discuss that with your doctor — shared clinical decision making — and you could receive the vaccine, and insurance companies would honor that,” he said. That provision could be important for healthy people who want to avoid COVID-19 infection because they are close contacts with or care for people with high risk conditions. To confirm whether your insurance will cover your COVID-19 shot, Schaffner recommends talking to your doctor and, potentially, your insur-

ance provider. According to the CDC recommendations provided on Oct. 6, “like routine recommendations, individual-based-decision-making allows for immunization coverage through all payment mechanisms including entitlement programs such as the Medicare, Medicaid, Children’s Health Insurance Program, and the Vaccines for Children Program, as well as insurance plans regulated by the Affordable Care Act.”

Q: If my insurance doesn’t cover vaccination, how much might it cost?

Vaccine manufacturers report that COVID19 vaccines cost about $142, according to the CDC’s price lists. It’s unclear whether that would be the out-of-pocket cost for patients receiving a COVID-19 vaccine not covered by insurance.

Q: Are COVID-19 vaccines still recommended during pregnancy?

Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. in May announced he’d unilaterally removed COVID-19 vaccines from the recommended immunization schedule for healthy children and pregnant women. The health-focused news outlet STAT reported that no one from the CDC or ACIP was consulted before Kennedy announced this change. Vaccine experts called the move concerning and unprecedented. Removing the vaccines from the immunization schedule could limit vaccine access by reducing insurance companies’ coverage of the shot. But again, by consulting with your doctor, you might still be able to access it. Some pharmacies also might be able to provide it, because the CDC lists pregnancy as a factor that increases risk of severe COVID-19 infection.

Q: Is there anyone who should not get the COVID-19 shot?

Broad health guidance always comes with exceptions. For example, people who have had “a very severe adverse reaction to a previous COVID-19 vaccine” should not get this season’s version, Schaffner said. You should discuss your health situation with your physician for personalized guidance.

Q: Why is the outlook for COVID-19 vaccines different this year?

In short, Kennedy has long been broadly critical of vaccinations and, now that he’s in charge of the nation’s health care policy, has taken actions to overhaul their regulation and distribution. Typically, the CDC recommends vaccines based on guidance from the ACIP. ACIP’s recommendations become CDC policy if they’re adopted by the CDC director. This year, Kennedy fired all 17 members of ACIP and replaced them with new members, many of whom have expressed antivaccine views. CDC Director Susan Monarez was fired Aug. 27 amid a dispute with Kennedy over vaccine policy.

Q: Aren’t there some medical organizations that recommend COVID-19 vaccinations for most people, though? Yes. In recent months, professional organiza-

The FDA and HHS did not point us to a list of health conditions that meet the high risk requirements. The CDC’s website catalogs a number of underlying conditions that it said demonstrate “a conclusive increase in risk for at least one severe COVID-19 outcome.” They included: chronic lung diseases, cancer, certain chronic kidney and liver diseases, diabetes, some disabilities, heart conditions, HIV, physical inactivity, primary immunodeficiencies and some mental health conditions.

Q: Is this season’s COVID-19 vaccine formula different from last season’s?

Yes. After the FDA passed its recommendations to vaccine manufacturers in May, the COVID-19 vaccines were updated to target the viral strain expected to circulate this year. The changes align with the World Health Organization’s recommendations.

Q: Where can I get the updated COVID-19 shots?

COVID-19 shots should be available at local pharmacies. On Sept. 23, Florida Surgeon General Joseph Ladapo posted on X that the state Department of Health is not prohibiting it. “We’ve heard from some older Floridians who believe the Florida Dept of Health is preventing them from accessing COVID-19 vaccines in pharmacies or requiring that they obtain a prescription. This is a hoax,” he wrote. He added that “the decision to administer them at a pharmacy rests in the hands of the pharmacist or pharmacy. FDOH is not involved in this decision.”

Q: How will a pharmacy know if I have an underlying condition?

Typically, pharmacies ask patients to self-attest whether they have an underlying condition, Groves said. For example, a person who is under age 65 but has severe asthma would self-attest to that when making a vaccine appointment. So far, all signs point to that self-attestation still being the case.

Q: When is the best time to get vaccinated?

During fall and winter months, when COVID19 infections are typically expected to spike alongside other respiratory infections.

Q: What do the administration’s changes mean for future vaccines?

Kennedy recently canceled $500 million in funding for mRNA vaccine development. Two of the most effective COVID-19 vaccines are mRNA. Some companies had been researching combined mRNA flu and COVID-19 shots, and those projects’ status is unclear. The FDA also recently announced that vaccine makers seeking approval for future COVID-19 vaccines, or boosters, would need to conduct new randomized clinical trials of healthy populations. That move, combined with the decision to narrow the FDA’s vaccine approval for certain segments of the population, is expected to limit COVID-19 vaccine access.

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Health & Wellness

Should you still get a flu shot? By MADISON CZOPEK

PolitiFact

How to tell if it’s a cold, the flu, COVID-19 or RSV

For parents of school-aged children, the fall to-do list can seem ever-growing. Buy school supplies. Fill out endless school forms. Block off parent-teacher nights. Do the kids’ tennis shoes still fit? Somewhere, at some point, you might remember: flu shots. Get your flu shots. Get their flu shots. Or should you? Can you? Is that still a thing? Amid political chatter about vaccines and the government entities that oversee them, it’s understandable to wonder where all this leaves the 2025-26 flu vaccine. In short: Yes, the flu shot is still a thing. And four doctors we spoke to said they recommend you get your flu shot this year. Here are some answers to common questions:

Cold and flu season is on the horizon, as viruses tend to spread more easily when people spend more time indoors. People may wonder if their sniffles indicate they have a cold, the flu or a sign of something more serious, such as COVID-19 or respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Anyone unsure of what’s behind a cold-like illness is urged to speak with their physician. In addition, the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases notes that the common cold, the flu, COVID-19, and RSV present some similar symptoms, but also some unique ones. Though each illness is complex, the frequency with which some symptoms present may indicate which issue a person is dealing with. Knowledge of those symptoms and their frequency can help people determine if the culprit behind their winter illness is a cold, the flu, COVID-19, or RSV.

Q: I heard the Trump administration could be changing vaccine recommendations. Does that apply to the flu vaccine?

There have been no substantial changes to the federal government’s flu vaccine recommendation. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention still says people 6 months and older should get an annual flu vaccine. That means most insurers will cover it, and it should soon be widely available. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has opposed vaccines, agreed that most people should get the flu vaccine. He followed a recommendation from the board that advises the federal government on vaccine policy. Kennedy replaced the members with his own. The panel voted against recommending multidose flu shots that contained the preservative thimerosal, but the preservative had already been removed from most vaccines, including most flu shots.

Cold

• Aches: Sometimes • Difficulty breathing: Rarely • Fatigue: Sometimes • Fever: Rarely • Loss of taste or smell: Rarely • Sore throat: Often • Wheezing: Rarely

Flu

• Aches: Often • Difficulty breathing: Rarely • Fatigue: Often • Fever: Often • Loss of taste or smell: Rarely • Sore throat: Sometimes

Q: Who should not get the flu shot?

Doctors acknowledged there are always exceptions to broad guidance. For example, people with severe allergies to flu vaccine components should not get vaccines that contain those components. You should discuss your health situation with your physician for personalized guidance.

Q: Is this season’s flu shot different from last season’s?

Yes. The flu shot was updated for the upcoming flu season, but the changes weren’t drastic. Like last year’s flu shot, this year’s vaccine is known as a three-component or trivalent vaccine that protects against three influenza viruses — two influenza A viruses and one influenza

COVID-19

• Aches: Sometimes • Difficulty breathing: Often • Fatigue: Often • Fever: Sometimes • Loss of taste or smell: Sometimes • Sore throat: Often • Wheezing: Rarely

RSV

• Aches: Rarely • Difficulty breathing: Sometimes • Fatigue: Rarely • Fever: Sometimes • Loss of taste or smell: Rarely • Sore throat: Rarely • Wheezing: Often

B virus. This season’s vaccine was altered to target a specific strain of the influenza A H3N2 virus that is expected to circulate this season, said Dr. Ryan Maves, a professor of medicine at Wake Forest University and a member of the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Those changes align with what the World Health Organization recommended.

Q: When is the best time to get vaccinated?

September, October or early November. This allows your body time to build up its protective antibodies as flu season begins and ensures your protection doesn’t wane before it ends. In the U.S., influenza infection typically peaks in February, so you want to make sure

you’re vaccinated, and your protection is still strong through February and into March, said Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases at Vanderbilt University Medical Center.

Q: Is this season’s vaccine guaranteed to protect against the influenza strain that’s circulating?

Guarantee all protection? No. Reduce risk of death? Yes. Similar to the COVID-19 vaccine, flu vaccines are best at “protecting us from the most severe consequences of influenza,” Schaffner said. That means the flu vaccine is most effective at keeping people out of the hospital or the intensive care unit and keeping people from dying. “A flu vaccine may not guarantee perfect protection against the flu, but skipping your flu shot simply guarantees you’ll have no protection at all,” said Dr. Benjamin Lee, a pediatric infectious diseases physician at the University of Vermont’s Children’s Hospital and a University of Vermont’s Larner College of Medicine pediatrics associate professor.

Q: I heard Kennedy canceled $500 million in funding for vaccine development. Could this affect future flu vaccines?

Kennedy canceled funding for messenger RNA (mRNA) vaccine development. Some companies have been researching combined mRNA flu and COVID-19 shots, but there are currently no approved mRNA flu vaccines. Still, experts said the federal government’s changes — funding cuts, vaccine committee purges, deviations from existing procedures — are increasing uncertainty.

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Health & Wellness

Thousands Walk to End Alzheimer’s Tampa Bay Newspapers Florida has the second-largest number of residents living with Alzheimer’s disease in the nation. Earlier this month, thousands filled the streets surrounding Benchmark International Arena for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, carrying brightly colored flowers that symbolized their personal connections to the disease. Events also took place at Poynter Park in St. Petersburg and Sims Park in New Port Richey. Palm Harbor resident Logan Sapp walked with her mother, Carolyn Flood, who was diagnosed with younger-onset Alzheimer’s at age 53. “Every day brings new challenges and, as a family, we do our best to make sure she is cared for and surrounded with love,” shared Sapp. Flood held the blue flower during the Promise Garden ceremony at Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Each color holds a specific meaning: blue for those living with the disease, yellow for caregivers, purple for those who have died, and orange for supporters of a future without Alzheimer’s and other dementias. Sapp joined family and friends in their first walk after the diagnosis. “The Walk to End Alzheimer’s is important to me because it brings people together and raises awareness and funds for care, support and research. For me, it’s personal,” she said. “The Alzheimers’ Association’s work gives us hope for a future without Alzheimer’s.” More than 7 million Americans are estimated to be living with Alzheimer’s, a progressive brain disease that affects memory, thinking and behavior. Florida has the second-highest number of residents living with the disease, making local support and fundraising efforts critical. New treatments such as Kisunla and Leqembi have become available in recent years, helping prolong cognitive ability and improve quality of life for those in the early stages. For the first time, families have hope for more time with loved ones. However, the treatments are effective only in the earliest stages of the disease, making

Photos courtesy of CCS PHOTOGRAPHY

Thousands filled the streets surrounding Benchmark International Arena for the Walk to End Alzheimer’s. Florida has the second-largest number of residents living with Alzheimer’s disease in the nation. early diagnosis crucial. “We are at a point where knowing the warning signs of Alzheimer’s is more important than ever,” said Carole Brennan, development director for Walk to End Alzheimer’s Tampa. “As research continues to bring new advancements and improve quality of life, events like this are vital not

only to raise funds, but also to build awareness that this is a disease, not a normal part of aging.” Deb Llewellyn, who lost her father in 2024, said she knows firsthand how devastating the disease can be. “It’s important for us as a community to raise awareness, to help all of those currently battling,

caregivers and family members,” Llewellyn said. To date, walk participants have raised nearly $400,000 to support care, research, advocacy and awareness initiatives through the Alzheimer’s Association Florida Gulf Coast Chapter. Donations are being accepted through Dec. 31 at alz.org/TampaWalk

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Health & Wellness

Screening could be a lifesaver By HAROLD WIMMER

Special to TBN

Denise Lee smoked up to two packs a day for 40 years, but when she quit at 54, Denise made one more lifesaving decision. After seeing an American Lung Association billboard that read "If you smoked, this lung cancer screening could save your life," Denise scheduled a low-dose CT scan. The next day, her results came back: a mass was detected, which they later confirmed was lung cancer. When she scheduled the scan, Denise had yet to develop a single symptom — and catching her lung cancer that early meant she had multiple treatments available. It's been eight years since, and Denise remains cancer-free. Lung cancer screening is a simple, quick, painless and non-invasive procedure. A lowdose CT scan takes less than a minute and, as Denise knows, it could save your life. I've dedicated my life to advocating for healthy lungs, starting as a regional program director of the American Lung Association all the way to my current position as president and CEO. As such, I want anyone and everyone — especially those who've smoked — to know how easy and effective a screening is. While we continue to make significant strides, lung cancer

If you smoked or still do, this 60-second screening could save your life

remains the top cause of cancer deaths in the U.S. — yet about only one quarter of lung cancer cases are caught early, when five-year survival rates are over 60%. Lung cancer often grows silently without any symptoms, which is precisely why early detection is so important and can lead to more effective

treatment. But over 80% of high-risk current and former smokers haven't been scanned. Screenings are recommended for high-risk individuals — that includes current smokers, those who quit within the last 15 years, or ex-smokers between the ages of 50 and 80 who smoked a pack a day for 20 years (known as '20 pack

years') or the equivalent, such as two packs a day for 10 years. With recent medical advances, lung cancer screenings can now be conducted using lowdose CT scans. Patients simply lie down on a table while an open imaging machine takes pictures to examine lung health. Less than a minute long, the screening is complete-

ly painless, and most private insurance plans cover the test, as does Medicare. Of course, no one wants to hear that they may have lung cancer. But the head start afforded by a screening can make all the difference and open the door to more treatment options — from surgery to chemotherapy to newer

advances like targeted therapy and immunotherapy. Early detection has turned lung cancer from a terminal diagnosis into an eminently treatable condition. In the past 10 years, these scans have saved 80,000 years of life — that's nearly thirty-million more days spent with loved ones and friends. If every high-risk individual had been screened for lung cancer between 2013 and 2020, that number could have been more than six times higher — half a million years of life saved. If you think you might be at risk, it's now easier than ever to find out. Visit SavedByTheScan.org and take a brief quiz to find out whether you're eligible for a low-dose CT scan. One in five people who took the quiz found out they were at high risk. I joined the American Lung Association nearly five decades ago. I'm proud to have witnessed the enormous progress we've made against lung cancer. But there’s more work to do and that starts with more people getting scanned. If your lungs could talk, they'd tell you to talk to your doctor and ask about lung cancer screenings. Taking just a couple minutes to hear them out could save your life. Harold Wimmer is president and CEO of the American Lung Association

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