Local Tidbits, News & Updates October 2019

ST PETE BEACH

Mistletoe Market Vendor Search

The St. Pete Beach Parks and Recreation Department is  introducing a new holiday market and we need YOU to make it great! We are currently accepting  applications for vendors, if interested please visit spbrec.com and fill out the application. The “Mistletoe Market” will be held in Horan Park at 7701Boca Ciega Dr. St. Pete Beach FL 33706 on December 7th

Thanksgiving Concert at PAG Church 

Join them on Wednesday, Nov 20th at 7 pm at the church, 107 16th Ave. St. Pete Beach, for a Thanksgiving Concert entitled  “An Evening of Praise and Thanksgiving.” Vox Nova, the  premier mixed ensemble from Pinellas County Center for the Arts, will join the Chancel Choir and Ringers from Pass-A-Grille. The concert is free, but people attending are asked to make a donation to benefit the victims of Hurricane Dorian. For info on church activities, call 727-360-5508, or access the website at www.pagchurch.org


COREY AREA

A Slice of New York moved in mid-September from Corey Ave. to 7141 Gulf Blvd. in St. Pete Beach, where The Roost was located until summer of 2018. The kitchen is being updated with pizza ovens as well as a grill and fryers to allow an expanded menu to be offered. Indoor and plentiful shaded outdoor seating is available in the new location. They expect to retain their phone 727-201-9900.

The St. Pete Beach Library is relocating to 7470 Gulf Blvd. next to PJ’s restaurant in the center located at Gulf between 74th and 75th Ave., while the historic location is completely restored.

The other open storefront at 7460 Gulf Blvd is being built out  for Centrifuge Cycling, a gym  specializing in high tech indoor cycling and upper body building. Group leader Emma Baiz hopes to get a charge out of your workout too. The bicycles are designed to produce power fit for the grid as you ride. The high tech gym hopes to open in November.

Wednesday 30th October – Halloween Party &  Costume Competition 6.30 – 9.30pm. American Legion Post 305, 6999 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach, FL 33706. Live music by Farley Compton, prizes, raffles, spooky snacks and more. Call 727.367.1596 for more info.


ST PETERSBURG

SPIFFS International Folk Fair Volunteer opportunities! The 48th annual International Folk Fair October 24 – 27, 2019, has openings for ticket and drink sales. People can sign up at Sign up Genius or by contacting SPIFFS – folkfair@ij.net. Volunteer around the world… Lotta Baumann, Executive Director St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society, Inc. (SPIFFS) 727.552.1896  folkfair@ij.net • spiffs.org

The 4-day festival showcases food and culture from 36+ ethnic organizations, each representing immigrants from nations across the globe. The groups will unite in a Grand Parade of Nations, culminating in a swearing-in  ceremony of new American citizens. NEW THIS YEAR: A Friday evening concert with popular local Betty Fox Band. Gates open at 6 pm; concert starts at 7 pm. OCT 26 & 27 – PUBLIC FESTIVAL: Doors open to the public for a weekend of festivities featuring food and performances from three dozen cultures.

Patchington’s Party with a Purpose!

Bringing awareness to domestic violence through fashion!  Patchington’s Party with a Purpose will once again stand up to domestic violence and bring awareness and support to our communities. According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence, one in every four women will become a victim to domestic violence in her lifetime. For more than 20 years, Patchington has partnered with our local  communities to bring awareness to domestic violence and this year we intend to make an even bigger impact. The week long in-store shopping event Tuesday, October 22rd – Monday, October 28th offers a way for customers to support a local charity and take advantage of the special offers during the event. In exchange for a $10 donation, customers will receive 30% off their purchase. The Patchington store at Isla del Sol is partnering with CASA of St. Petersburg this year. Patchington is a collection of  women’s resort-wear boutiques with 12 locations in Florida, two seasonal stores in New Jersey, and online at www.patchington.com 

OKTOERFEST Steeped in Bavarian tradition, Hofbräuhaus St. Petersburg brings beer, food and fun to the table. Dine on German cuisine every night of the week; some dishes even use ingredients imported from abroad, or that are specially made to go from their kitchen to your plate. For only $26, you’ll receive a Deal valid for a Weekend pass for two people plus a pitcher of beer and two pretzels at the German  American Society: 2019 Oktoberfest! 

Choose your weekend: October 4th & 5th, October 12th & 13th, or October 18th & 19th from 5-10pm! Eat, drink, listen, sway, dance and party with over 4,000 of your friends and family at the German American Society: 2019 Oktoberfest! German American Friendship Society of Pinellas, 8098 66th St N., Pinellas Park, FL 33781, 727.541.6782

COPA wine & hookah lounge will specialize in wine cocktails, mixed drinks made predominantly with wine. As for the food menu, “My mom is Haitian and my dad is French,” says Maxim. “We’ve always been exposed to different cultures and a lot of delicious food.” The menu is still being developed, but it will definitely have culinary influences from France and Haiti, as well as other global cuisines. In addition to indoor seating, Copa will provide guests with an upscale outdoor patio with hookah service and live music. COPA will be located at 1047 Central Avenue, formerly Genaro’s Cafe. 

See-through Kayak Adventure Company launches in the Burg.  Ever wanted to immerse yourself in the waters surrounding St. Pete? Now you can, without getting wet. A new company, Get Up and Go Kayaking, just launched in the Tampa Bay region. These  transparent vessels let you see the turtles, fish, and stingray as you paddle out from Tierra Verde. Tours are $55+tax /person and last about 2.5 hours. Reservations are required and can be made on Get Up and Go’s website at  getupandgokayaking.com/ tampabay/ or call 727.265.2268


CLEARWATER

The nation’s first-of-its-kind underwater dive memorial honoring U.S. veterans is now open off the coast of Clearwater. Roughly 10 miles off the shore of Clearwater, Florida at a depth of 40 feet, Circle of Heroes (@COH Florida) is currently made up of 12 life-size concrete statues  representing the men and women serving in the United States Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines, and Navy. An additional 12 statues will be installed in 2020 to complete the 100-foot Circle of Heroes.


TIERRA VERDE/ISLA DEL SOL

The Tierra Verde Sunday Market has begun their 2019-20 season as a weekly event 9-2 from October to May. They are also working on their Oktoberfest Saturday, October 19th, from 4 – 9 PM in downtown Tierra Verde.


TREASURE ISLAND

State of Florida “Home Rule”  legislation impacting Treasure Island:  Over the past few years, the Florida State Legislature has  introduced legislation that would prevent local governments, including Treasure Island, from enacting and enforcing certain local ordinances/regulations regardless of the desire of the majority of its residents.  Bills have been introduced in Tallahassee that would prevent the City of Treasure Island from regulating short term rentals in residential areas. This would allow investors, with assistance from companies such as Airbnb and VRBO, to offer monthly, weekly or daily rentals of single-family homes in residential neighborhoods.  TGTIA opposes the elimination of Home Rule. Jim Lorenz, along with his Task Force members, is designing educational material for the residents of Treasure Island. This will allow our residents to be better informed and let their voices be heard by our state representatives.

The Greater Treasure Island Club is meeting on October 10th at 6pm in the Treasure Island City Hall Auditorium, Core Beliefs:  Change is inevitable. Growth is optional.  Residents committed to collaborating in an open-minded and respectful manner will build a stronger community. Current Initiatives include: Beautification of Causeway Boulevard leading into Treasure Island, “Home Rule” legislation impacting Treasure Island, Downtown Treasure Island, Redevelopment – Rebranding of Treasure Island for tourist marketing – Clyde Smith and his Task Force members will be working with residents, local  Chambers of Commerce, local businesses, and city staff to develop a new brand for Treasure Island.

The 7th Annual “Veterans Day Fall Fly on TI” is scheduled this year for November 9th & 10th on Treasure Island Beach behind the Thunderbird Beach Resort. The event is geared to prep novice kite flyers of all ages for the official competition on January 18th & 19, 2020 held in the same fabulous location. New and experienced flyers are encouraged to bring out their best Red, White and Blue and share the freedom of kite flying by including the public and sharing kite knowledge. Public parking is available in the Public lot across the street from the Waffle House on Gulf Blvd. The festival is sponsored by Windworks, The City of Treasure Island, our host hotel and top sponsor for over 20 years, the  Thunderbird Beach Resort. Contact the Thunderbird for room reservations at 727.367.1961.

The kite festival will launch at 10am Saturday, November 9th with the National Anthem and continue with demos and displays throughout the weekend.

Treasure Islettes Annual  Fall Bazaar & Luncheon “HAPPY HOLLY DAZE “Saturday, November 16, 2019, 10am – 12 lunch – 2pm, TI Comm. Ctr, 1 Park Place Luncheon & beverage $.  Join the Islettes for the annual fall fundraiser, wonderful crafts, baked goods, opportunities for money tree, and 50/50, baskets, jewelry and early holiday shopping. Doors open at 10:00 am, lunch served at noon. Proceeds benefit city beautification projects as well as local, state and national charitable causes. For tickets please call Judy Koepkey at 615.556.4977 or email jgerber57@gmail.com and Carol for table reservations at 727.360.9181 or email  caalee@verizon.net. Please note that no tickets are needed for shopping.

Treasure Islette Bingo runs every Thursday at 6:45 & 7:45 pm at the TI Comm. Ctr, 1 Park Place, Treasure Island. The Treasure Islettes meet on the fourth Monday at 7 pm of each month from September to May at the Treasure Island Community Center. The club is open to women who have an interest in the betterment of Treasure Island. More information about membership can be found at treasureislettes.weebly.com. 

39th Annual John’s Pass Seafood and Music Festival

The 39th Annual John’s Pass Seafood and Music Festival is returning to the Tampa Bay region beginning Friday, October 18, and running through the weekend. The festival, which began in 1980, has become one of the largest Seafood celebrations in the country highlighting the beautiful waterfront village, which provides a large array of entertainment options including shopping, dining and attractions. John’s Pass Village and Boardwalk in Madeira Beach has a history steeped in its love of the sea, rather the Gulf of Mexico and Boca Ceiga Bay in this case. You will find fishing charters, fresh seafood and on the water activities. Music fills the air throughout the weekend with performances on the main stage by some of the area’s hottest bands. Admission is free and many of the weekend’s events support community causes.

MADEIRA BEACH

Nominations for Citizen of the Year now being accepted. Nominations for Madeira Beach Citizen of the Year are now being accepted. Nomination forms can be downloaded from the City of Madeira Beach website and  returned to the City Manager’s Office in person or by email at llefave@madeirabeachfl.gov. The Citizen of the Year, Employee of the Year and Volunteer of the Year will be announced at a recognition dinner to be hosted by the Commission on Thursday, November 14, 2019. Contact Curt Preisser, City of Madeira Beach PIO, at 727.391.9951 x299 or email  cpreisser@madeirabeachfl.go

SKYWAY MARINA DISTRICT

District Update The “Old Kmart” is demolished for the construction of The Addison Skyway MarinaThe Flamingo Resort is officially closed, and will begin demolition this year. Sur Club (Old Home Depot site) is in the process of receiving a permit, for closing on their financing.  Woody’s Car Wash (Old Regions Bank) has closed, no updates on demolition date.  The art on the Cube Smart has no update.  Old Ponderosa – still available for purchase. Self Car Wash – Sold, no other information. Skyway Diner –  leased – for BayCare Urgent Care – no set date.

SOUTH PASADENA

Two FREE concerts will be presented by the South Pasadena Community Band in October.  Enjoy some cool music with a Latin touch. This concert will be presented at the Treasure Island Community Center (1 Park Place, 106th Avenue in Treasure Island) on Wednesday, October 16th and will be repeated on Thursday, October 17th at South Pasadena City Hall (7047 Sunset Drive South).  Both concerts will begin at 7:30 PM.  Check their website to find the complete program music list at southpasadenaband.com/ upcoming-program/. South Pasadena Band Concerts 2019-2020, All concerts start at 7:30 pm, South Pasadena (Always 3rd Thursday) Oct. 17, Nov. 21, Jan. 16, Feb. 20, Mar. 19 & Apr. 16 Treasure Island Community Center Oct. 16, Nov. 13 & Jan. 15

PINELLAS COUNTY

Pinellas Realtor Organization (PRO) Affiliate Business Partner invite all to their 9th Annual Wine & Food Festival, Friday, October 11, 5:30 to 9 PM at PRO. 4590 Ulmerton Road. A special Casino evening will benefit Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital, with slot machines, blackjack, craps and roulette. Attendees will get $1,000 in “funny money” to win prizes, including one PRO member who will win their 2020 dues. Your $10 admission fee ($20 at door) includes one ticket for beer, wine, or soda (additional $5 each); food samplings from local restaurants; an extensive dessert bar; and valet parking. For more information and pre-registration details, contact Diana Schwarz via email to dianas@ firsthomebank.co.

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