Clearwater Beach Newsletter
Transcription
Clearwater Beach Newsletter
DECEMBER / 2013 ISSUE 24 IT WAS CLEARWATER’S GLAMOUR AND GLITTER Belleair Images In 1921, only five years after Clearwater was incorporated, aspiring State Senator-to-be, John S. Taylor, built the Capitol Theater on Cleveland Street, suggesting a promise of culture for the fast growing city. Although designed in the special configuration of an opera house, the theater originally presented mostly wild western movies and home grown minstrel shows. Sixty-eight years after the theater opened, Clearwater resident Joe Padgett reported to Clearwater Historian, Mike Sanders that he had been there at the beginning. “I remember an electric organ,” he said, “not too big, but loud, and the interior was rococo.” He Capitol Theatre circa 1926 remembered one of the minstrel shows starring then County Commissioner John Chestnut, Sr, in “black face,” performing with other prominent citizens for the entertainment of their neighbors. Minstrel shows included the traditional jokes, singing and dancing, a popular event of the times. Professional touring groups came from Tampa St. Petersburg and Jacksonville, to offer entertainment at the Capitol when the movies weren’t playing. Opening night was March 21, 1921 and the featured film was Paramount’s “Dinty” starring Wesley Barry. The building was typical Mediterranean Revival Architecture of the 1920s, with gilded sound panels and ornate fixtures. A pit organ was installed in 1922, which was, according to Mr. Padgett, “not a great big electric organ, but smaller.” The music was automated; played by spools, much like a player piano. The theater was built to the east of the Clearwater Sun Building, located on the corner of Cleveland Street and Osceola Avenue. And, in the custom of the time, the two buildings shared a common wall. Thus the outer brick of the Clearwater Sun building formed the inner wall of the theater where, in 1918, the names of all Clearwater citizens who fought in the “Great War” were recorded. Since being recently rediscovered the wall has been dubbed the “World War 1 Wall of Honor.” At one point this memorial had been plastered over and eventually forgotten until recent renovations of the theater uncovered a portion of it. While many of the stones have been carefully removed, catalogued and stored for future display, those portions remaining have been left open for view in the renovated theater’s lobby. During World War I, the Capitol became a focal point for patriotic activities. Capitol Theater “Bank Night” was a big social event with “sometimes upwards of 100 Today people milling around, waiting for their lucky number to be called,” according to Mr. Padgett’s. There were beauty pageants and War Bond sales and other activities to encourage participation in the war effort. In the 1930s, the Ritz Theater was built and operated by the same company, on nearby Fort Harrison Avenue, just blocks from the Capitol, giving Clearwater citizens two choices for an evening’s entertainment. Admission fees ranged from 10¢ for children to 35¢ for adults. There were candy and popcorn machines available. But no air conditioning. The best they could manage was large fans moving the warm air around. Story by local historian Anne Garris ...continued inside Or Current Resident PRESORTED STD U S POSTAGE PAID Permit No. 4008 St Petersburg, FL CREDITS CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER This newsletter is published by GRIFFIN PRODUCTIONS, Inc. and is mailed to every occupied residence in Clearwater Beach’s zip code 33767. We are not associated with the City of Clearwater. PUBLISHER Bob & Becky Griffin ART DIRECTION Becky Griffin SALES 727-517-1997 CONTACT INFO P.O. Box 1314 Indian Rocks Beach, Fl 33785 517-1997 ~ 517-1998 FAX BeachNewsletters.com We’d like to hear from you. Is there something you would like to see included in this newsletter? Tell us what you think at bob@griffindirectories.com © 2013 Griffin Productions, Inc. CLEARWATER BEACH NEIGHBORHOOD NEWSLETTER This is our 24th Clearwater Beach Neighborhood Newsletter. We started this publication in December of 2009. You will find articles and local information about the Beach area inside. We call it a Neighborhood Newsletter because it is primarily about your neighborhood, Clearwater Beach. It is mailed it to the entire zip code of 33767 including Island Estates and Sand Key. We want your input. How did you like this issue? What suggestions do you have for future issues and articles? We hope you enjoy this newsletter. We call it a “Neighborhood Newsletter” because it is about Clearwater Beach, your neighborhood. It is mailed to about 5,000 households and includes Island Estates and Sand Key. We publish this edition six times a year. Call or email us, Bob & Becky Griffin, 727-517-1997 bob@griffindirectories.com SEE YOU AGAIN IN FEBRUARY! CITY NUMBERS CITY HALL 562-4250 112 S. Osceola Avenue www.clearwater-fl.com MAYOR OFFICE . . . . . . . . . . . 562-4050 MAYOR - George N. Cretekos - Seat 1 CITY COUNCIL . . . . . . . . . . . . 562-4042 Doreen Hock-DiPolito - Seat 2 Jay Polglaze - Seat 3 Bill Jonson - Seat 4 Paul F. Gibson (Vice-Mayor) - Seat 5 CITY MANAGER . . . . . . . . . . . . 562-4040 William Horne ASSISTANT CITY MANAGER . . 562-4040 BUILDING PERMITS . . . . . . . . 562-4558 HUMAN RESOURCES . . . . . . . 562-4870 PLANNING & ZONING . . . . . 562-4567 PUBLIC SERVICES . . . . . . . . . . 562-4950 PUBLIC UTILITIES . . . . . . . . . . 562-4600 PUBLIC UTILITIES EMERGENCY462-6633 CLEARWATER GAS. . . . . . . . . . 562-4980 SOLID WASTE . . . . . . . . . . . . . 562-4920 PIER 60 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 462-6466 MARINA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 462-6954 PARKS AND REC . . . . . . . . . . . 562-4800 PUBLIC LIBRARY . . . . . . . . . . . 562-4970 VISITOR INFO CENTER . . . . . . 442-3604 EMERGENCIES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1-1 POLICE NON-EMERGENCY. . . 562-4242 FIRE DEPARTMENT . . . . . . . . . 562-4334 POLICE HOTLINE. . . . . . . . . . . 562-4080 NEIGHBORHOOD LIAISON . . 562-4554 ------------------------------------------------CHAMBER OF COMMERCE . . . 447-7600 333 South Gulfview Blvd, Clearwater Beach POST OFFICE ISLAND ESTATES 449-8732 SAND KEY PARK . . . . . . . . . . . 588-4852 Shelter Reservations,PinellasCounty.org/park MARINE AQUARIUM . . . . . . . 441-1790 249 Windward Passage, Island Estates CLEARWATER SAILING CTR . . 517-7776 1001 Gulf Blvd, Sand Key JOLLEY TROLLEY . . . . . . . . . . 445-1200 483 Mandalay Avenue, Suite 213 CLEARWATER YACHT CLUB . . . 447-6000 830 Bayway Blvd South CARLOUEL HOMEOWNERS ASSN Kris Hampsey, President . . . . . 441-4188 LITTLE LEAGUE . . . . . 813-486-4430 John Murphy ROTARY, Clearwater Beach meets every Thursday, 12:15pm at Shephard’s lunch 447-1075 Nick Ekonomides, President CLEARWATER BEACH ASSOCIATION Wendy Hutkin, President . . . . 216-3274 CLEARWATER GARDEN CLUB . . . . . . . . . . 391-3066 Alice Jarvis SAND KEY CIVIC ASSOCIATION Meets first Wednesdays each month at the Clearwater Community Sailing Center Arlene Musselwhite, President 644-7524 ISLAND ESTATES CIVIC ASSOCIATION . . . 813-335-6770 Mary Lau, President www.MyIslandEstates.org ISLAND ESTATES WOMEN'S CLUB Marie Wadsworth, President . . 447-7182 FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY . . . . . . . . 446-4410 Anne Garris CLEARWATER HISTORICAL SOCIETY David Allbritton, President . . . 481-5102 ------------------------------------------------PINELLAS COUNTY INFO . . . . 464-3000 COMMISSION OFFICES. . . . . . 464-3000 Susan Latvala, CWB/Island Estates 464-3276 Karen Seel, Sand Key. . . . . . . . 464-3278 STATE: Senator Jack Latvala . . . . . 727-793-2797 Republican, District 20 26133 Hwy 19 N., Ste 201, Clearwater Latvala.Jack.web@flsenate.gov Representative Larry Ahern 727-545-6421 Republican, District 66 5511 Park Street N. St. Petersburg larry.ahern@myfloridahouse.gov Governor Rick Scott Rick.Scott@myflorida.com FLORIDA UNITED STATES SENATORS: Marco Rubio . . . . . . . . . . . 202-224-3041 www.Rubio.Senate.gov Bill Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202-224-5274 www.BillNelson.Senate.gov AREA UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE: Vacant . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 727-394-6950 9210 113th St, Seminole, Fl 33772 www.house.gov/young CALENDAR OF LOCAL EVENTS DECEMBER: Capitol Theater Re-Opening 18 Winter Begins 21 Carlouel Holiday Golf Cart Parade21 Beef-O-Brady Bowl Tropicana Dome 23 Public School Close for Holidays 23 Blast Friday / Cleveland Street 27 Dog Parade / Botanical Gardens 29 Outback Bowl on the Beach 30 New Year’s Eve Fireworks Sand Key 31 BB King at the Capitol Theater 31 JANUARY 2014 Outback Bowl 1 BB King again Capitol Theater 2 Little League Sign Ups Begin 4 Public School Reopens 6 Special Election Congressional Dist13 14 Public School Closed 17 Clearwater Half-A-Thon 19 Martin Luther King Day 20 Beach Walk Walk 25 Folk Festival / Heritage Village 25 Gasparilla Invasion in Tampa 25 The Color Run Coachman Park 26 Backwater’s Chili Cook-off 26 Blast Friday Cleveland Street 31 FEBRUARY Super Bowl Sunday 2 Ground Hog Day 2 Florida State Fair Begins 6 Yard Sale St Brendan’s 8-9 Uncorked’ Food and Wine Fest 8-9 Clearwater Sea-Blues Festival 15-16 Schools Closed 17 Presidents Day 17 International Sailing Regatta 19-23 Blast Friday Cleveland Street 28 CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER Did You Know... CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER FIELD TRIP The staff of the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) recently came to the beach on a field trip. Ronda Sanborn of the CVB does many of these trips, and this one was exclusively for the folks working in the county information offices. They enjoyed walking around the Beach Walk area, seeing the Guy Harvey rendering in front of the Surf Style store and watching the Flow-Rider in action where they saw people learn to surf indoors. After snapping a few photos they were off to see the rest of the County. The CVB promotes Clearwater Beach as well as all of Pinellas County. _________________________________________________ OUTBACK BOWL January 1 the Iowa Hawkeyes and the LSU Tigers will meet inside Raymond James for the first of many New Year’s bowl games - the Outback Bowl, but on Monday, December 30th they along with their families and fans will be on Clearwater Beach for the annual Outback Bowl Clearwater Beach Day. Players, cheerleaders and fans from the two teams will be having fun in the sand from about 11am to 3pm. We wish them both the best of luck for their big game. ___________________________________________________ PUPPET SHOW The Main Library in Clearwater will host the Dascaloja Puppeteers in their annual Winter Wonder Show, Saturday, December 28th at 2pm in the Youth Services area. The free puppet show is aimed at grade school age children and will include songs pertaining to winter and the winter season. For more information, call 562-4970 or see www.MyClearwater.com/CPL. ” ___________________________________________________ NEED ANOTHER COPY? Pick up another copy of this newsletter at the Beach Chamber Office, The Beach Rec Center, Island Estates Print Shack, Shorty’s Gourmet Deli or the Island Estates UPS store. ________________________ RAY CHARLES In January, the cost of postage is going up again from 46¢ to 49¢ for a first class stamp. You can avoid the cost increase by buying their Forever stamps, the latest of which is the Ray Charles stamp. In addition to the stamps, the Post Office is selling a CD of his music for $9.99. Since it is a Forever stamp, it means even after the cost of postage goes up 3¢, you can still use them. Ray Charles Robinson, born on September 23, 1930, was blinded as a child, and over came his handicap to become a well-known pianist, lyricist and singer. Some of his best-known songs are: Georgia On My Mind, I Got A Woman, What’d I Say, Shake Your Tail Feathers, You Are My Sunshine, Unchain My Heart, I Can’t Stop Loving You, You Don’t Know Me and Hit The Road Jack. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER BEACH TREE The Chamber of Commerce contributed a tree to November’s Festival of Trees held inside the Long Center Recreation Center. Members of the Chamber and other beach businesses donated beachy items, such as shells, to be hung as ornaments on the Chamber’s special tree. The Festival is an annual event sponsored by and for the benefit of UPARC. Shown here is Executive Director Darlene Kole and Cooters owner Carol Mears. ___________________________________________________ CMA TO REOPEN ON WEEKENDS The Clearwater Marine Aquarium, closed most days to accommodate Hollywood and the crew filming Dolphin Tale 2, has announced they will be open for business on weekends from 9am to 6pm, while the actors take weekends off. Get more information on www.SeeWinter.com.. ___________________________________________________ COAST GUARD AUXILIARY CLASSES The next Boating Safety Classes will be January 11&12, and February 8 & 9, at 8am. The classes cost $35 and are conducted in the Police Headquarters on the mainland. They expect to have their new building completed at the north end of Clearwater Pass by July. Eventually, classes will be held there. The Coast Guard Auxiliary assists the Coast Guard in their mission and services the Clearwater Beach area. For information, call Jeff Lawlor at 474-3028 or Karen Miller at 786-0959. ___________________________________________________ LITTLE LEAGUE REGISTRATION TIME It’s time to sign your kid up for Little League Spring Ball. But, the Clearwater Little League also offers girls and grownup’s Soft Ball, too. Please sign up by the first week of January on Active.com. Go to Clearwater-FL/Baseball and follow the links. Get other information at www.ClearwaterLittleLeague.com ___________________________________________________ BEST SUNSET Once again, USA TODAY held a contest to determine which city has the best sunsets. We won! According to the readers of USA TODAY, Clearwater Beach has the best sunsets. The city was featured on their web site and in a weekend edition of USA TODAY. The newspaper is the largest circulated printed newspaper in the US with a readership of more than 6 million. ___________________________________________________ NEW LIGHTS The City replaced 142 light fixtures on Beach Walk with special sea-turtle-friendly low level lights. The cost per light was $985, with installation estimated at $300 per light. The total cost of the project is estimated at $184,000 __________________________ FOOD DRIVE St. Cecelia Catholic School students collected canned goods, food items and personal hygiene products for the poor serviced by St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen. The student council helped raise the awareness of the poor with the student population who generously donated the items needed. Shown here are : Harrison Soe, Clearwater - Tyler Dunnagen, Clearwater Beach and Phillip Day, Dunedin ___________________________________________________ OUR NEXT ISSUE IS FEBRUARY Read this, as well as other issues, online at BeachNewsletters.com. C L E A R W A T E R B E A C H , F L O R I D A Where the Locals Hang Out It’s laid back and casual. Been that way since we started in 1926. Here everyone’s somebody and nobody cares. We overlook the Gulf of Mexico; the beach is at our front door and the sunsets are pretty terrific. There’s live entertainment most days, as long as we can find the extension cord. Great food. Happy hour: Monday - Friday 4-7 p.m. Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill & Bar £äÊ>ÞÊë>>`iÊÊUÊÊ ÀÌ Ê i>ÀÜ>ÌiÀÊi>V Ê ÇÓÇ®Ê{{ÈÓÈ{ÓÊÊUÊÊwww.palmpavilion.com CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER DR. LARA SAYS CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER by Cesar A. Lara, M.D. Men also suffer a type of midlife physical change called “Andropause”. Their bodies reduce the production of testosterone, which affects their bones, organs, brain and libido, just as in women. In men, symptoms of low testosterone are typically a decrease in muscle mass, an increase in belly fat (may be referred to as a “beer belly”) along with fatigue and a disinterest in life. Instead of the vibrant and motivated person you once were, you may now become tired or withdrawn with little energy, no desire to exercise, or other activities you used to enjoy. Adding to the disinterest in life, your libido and performance also declines; so emotionally you don’t feel like the strong, virile man you once were. Your sense of well being is lost. Testosterone is truly a life source to the male body. As in the female, it is important for heart health. A recent study of 2500 men showed that those with the lowest testosterone level had the greatest arterial blockage. That study also showed that men with higher baseline levels of testosterone had less cardiovascular disease and that supplementing with testosterone prevented worsening of cardiovascular disease. Decreasing diabetes, reducing obesity, raising lean body mass, and protecting against heart attacks and progression of heart disease are some of the effects that testosterone therapy can have in the male body. A study from the Annals of Internal Medicine actually demonstrated men with higher levels of testosterone lived the longest. To read the entire article please visit our website: bestmedicineforweightloss.com BEACH ART CENTER ANNOUNCES EVENING CLASSES & EVENTS Evening classes are now available for adults, teens and children including: Monday: Hand Building with Clay in the Pottery Studio and Thursday: Intro. to Drawing, Step-by Step Watercolor Painting and for Children ages 6-12, Pottery After School. Classes start at 6:00pm, except 5pm for Children's class. Beginners are warmly welcomed. Also, private group “Make It and Take It” events are available. Tickets are on sale for the Saturday, February 22nd Monte Carlo Casino Night held at the Art Center. Mark your calendars for the 4th Annual Blue Grass Festival on March 22nd and Beauty and the Beach Fine Arts & Craft Show on April 5th. Both are held in Indian Rock’s Kolb Park and benefit the Beach Art Center. Sponsorships are available for these events. Contact them at 727-596-4331 or e-mail arts1515@gmail.com. Visit www.BeachArtCenter.org for more information. The Beach Art Center is located at 1515 Bay Palm Blvd., in Indian Rocks (next door to City Hall). PILOTS AT CLEARWATER HIGH Now, students at Clearwater High can earn a pilot’s license while attending high school. The Clearwater Aeronautical Space Academy, will have a soft launch in January with one class. A full schedule of piloting and aeronautical science classes will be available during the 2014-2015 school year. This is a partnership with EmbryRiddle Aeronautical University. The school started a ‘wallto-wall’ academy concept last year where all students take career themed classes. Any student in Clearwater High can join the new Aviation Academy, earn a pilots license and up to 30 college credits by the time they graduate. Restaurant News... CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER BAIT HOUSE FIRE Business was slow, so Tuesday, October 29th the owners of The Bait House closed early. At 10:30pm, a fire was reported in the kitchen. The responders were afraid it would spread to the Starlite Majesty, which was down wind. Thanks to the quick response of the fire fighters, the fire was contained to the kitchen. Owners Christian and Justin, are working hard to repair and reopen the restaurant. They hope to be serving food again food by the time you read this. _________________________________________________ AQUA PRIME OPENS The restaurant in the former home of On the Rocks in Indian Rocks Beach has reopened as Aqua Prime. Owned by Shirley and Emmett O’Barr, they have inside dining, an inside sports bar and patio dining with live music. Every room has undergone a makeover, and there is a totally new menu. Their fishing related themed outside bar has been renamed “The Reel Bar.” Operating partner, Tony Ewonaitis was formerly with Bonefish Grill. Their booth at The Taste of IRB was a big hit and sold out! _________________________________________________ CLEAR SKY DONATES Clear Sky Café on Mandalay Avenue is a big supporter of Clearwater’s Free Clinic. On November 26th, they donated 20% of their day’s sales to the Free Clinic. “This was the easiest way to donate money, and it came with a delicious meal,” says Dan Shouvlin, coowner of Clear Sky. Find information about the Free Clinic and what they do at www.ClearwaterFreeClinic.org. ______________________ UNCORKED IS BACK Moved from November, the third annual edition of this annual food and wine beachside extravaganza event is February 8th and 9th beachside, west of the Hyatt Regency. This is a high-end luxury affair showcasing wine, beer and Clearwater Beach restaurants. “Clearwater Beach is a premier vacation spot and foodie destination,” says Tammy Gail, the event’s producer. “Uncorked will offer the perfect pre-Valentine’s Day beach weekend filled with an extensive array of sweet and savory samplings complemented by an impressive selection of wines, spirits and craft beers from around the globe.” There will be a one-of-a-kind Spirits Beach Bar and the Grand Tasting Village to meet and mingle with wine specialists, vinters, brewmasters, and the area’s brightest chefs. The event is $85 each with special VIP packages for $125 at ClearwaterBeachUncorked.com. _________________________________________________ SHEPHARDS OWNER DIES William Shephard (74), long time owner of Shephard’s Resort passed away December 10th. In 1977, Bill purchased the Lagoon Motel in Clearwater Beach and developed it into a major beachfront resort well known to all of Tampa Bay as Shepards. The resort is currently under going a renovation, expanding to over 200 rooms. Bill, who had retired, was a resident of Belleair, and had five children and six grandchildren. Shephard’s Beach Resort, celebrating their 35th anniversary this month, will continue in his name for years to come. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER SHEPHERD’S VILLAGE – A STORY BEHIND EVERY DOOR A local ministry is helping single mothers and their children find hope for tomorrow as they face the challenges of raising children alone. Shepherd’s Village is a caring Christian two-year residential ministry serving one-parent families in the heart of Belleair Bluffs since 2002. Shepherd’s Village brings hope to single mothers and their children by providing affordable housing, life skill training, encouragement, and a myriad of lifestrengthening resources. With 22 years of successful service in Pinellas County, the Village has supported over 227 single parents and over 452 children through training in homemaking, job and career development, budgeting and financial management, time management, and personal health and life choices. The vision is to provide sufficient time and resources to develop new goals and achieve a fresh sense of security and stability. A well-managed home directly impacts the children and contributes to breaking the cycle of brokenness and economic stress. Moms are able to reinvest in the local community as consumers, tax payers, and for some, even as first-time home owners. At Shepherd’s Village – life is not just about a roof over their heads – it is about healthy moms intentionally creating healthy balanced homes.. The Village is a recognized not-for-profit ministry supported through individual donors, businesses, small private grants, and volunteers. In September of 2012 an unexpected gift of model home furnishings resulted in a unique thrifty boutique, Shabby2Chic, located in Antique Alley at 596 Indian Rocks Road. The owners of Petal & Vine, Maxi and Pat Quinn, a beautiful garden and home décor shop at the entrance of the Alley, helped Shabby2Chic began a new retail adventure with an all-volunteer staff. A relationship with a local moving company, Two Men And A Truck, developed into the company donating one day a month to pick up and deliver large donated furnishings. Shabby2Chic recommends the reliable services of Two Men and a Truck to any of our community. The shop receives donations of new and gently used finer furnishings for resale, and sales provides educational scholarships for the mothers. The shop is open Tuesday through Saturday 10am – 5pm, and the third Thursday of each month remains open until 8pm for evening shoppers and strollers. Stop by and get acquainted with all of the Antique Alley shops and see if there is a treasure to be found for your home. DAISY GRANTS The Clearwater Community Woman’s club is currently seeking applicants for their Daisy Grants, cash donations to worthy groups and projects. The program began 6 years ago. Applications must be submitted for a specific project valued at $1,000 or less. The deadline to submit an application is February 15th. Get a copy of the application at www.ClearwaterCWC.org. 2013 Daisy Grants went to: Lighthouse of Pinellas, Pinellas Education Foundation, Religious Community Services, Kimberly House, and Sewing Hope. The Clearwater Community Woman’s Club, a non-profit organization for forty years, meets monthly on the third Tuesday of the month at 10am, at the Clearwater Main Library. For information call Kay Estock at 536-7737. Business Briefs... CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER RADIANCE MEDSPA HOSTS FUNDRAISER The Black Diamond Award-winning Radiance Medspa in Belleair Bluffs hosted the “Little Black Dress” fundraiser for the Homeless Emergency Project (HEP) in November and raised not only awareness of what HEP provides in the community, but also raised over $3,000 to further their services that provide housing and support to the homeless. More than 100 guests were in attendance, and each made a financial and dress donation. The donated dresses are featured in the HEP thrift store in Clearwater that offers name brands at incredible prices. All proceeds benefit HEP’s operating funds. Radiance specializes in the latest non-surgical technologies to address the signs of aging and offers an individualized approach to medical skincare. With locations in Belleair Bluffs and inside the Hyatt Regency Resort and Spa, Radiance Medspa was named Medium Business of the Year 2013 from the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce. Information is available at www.radiancemedspa.com _________________________________________________ HOTEL RENOVATIONS The owners of La Sal Suites at 530 Mandalay are planning to renovate all 12 of their units. They are also adding an upper deck and bar for their guests. They hope to be completed by March. _________________________________________________ WALGREENS OPENS Clearwater Beach welcomed the new two story Walgreens and its new store manager, Manny Pantelis. The store, near the Roundabout, with retail sales on both levels is open 24/7 and has a pharmacy. The store on the south end has closed. _________________________________________________ HALE’S A/C SERVICE GIVES BACK They were proud and honored to partner with the Building Homes for Heros organization to provide a home to war-injured Army Sgt. Charles “Clay” Claybaker. The organization’s mission is to build or modify existing homes to meet the needs of the brave men and women who selflessly served our country. In 2012, they worked on 25 homes for severely wounded veterans; and hope to be able to gift as many as 30 homes in 2013. Hale’s installed a York air conditioner in the home that will be presented to the owners sometime in November. Hales hopes to continue contributing to this organization. To learn more or make a donation, visit buildinghomesforheroes.org. More Business Briefs... CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER THE HUB NOW OPEN Shared office space is increasingly popular and in demand. “The Hub” in Clearwater Beach is a luxury, flexoffice space at affordable daily, weekly and monthly options. Mobile workers and entrepreneurs can bring clients or their team to uniquely decorated and ergonomically designed meeting and conference rooms. Members also enjoy free or reduced rates to other business services and attractions, potentially paying for their membership in savings. For information about the Hub, call (727) 754-7910, or visit, www.theHubClearwater.com. _________________________________________________ NEW CHIROPRACTOR Adjust Me is a new Chiropractor, Massage and Health Food Center operated by Dr Douglas Price, DC upstairs at 483 Mandalay Avenue, #209. Call 400-4765. _____________ SHERATON WINS AWARD The Sheraton Sand Key received the Clearwater Beach Chamber of Commerce Beautification Award at their Annual Breakfast in December. The hotel was recognized for their extensive renovations to the lobby area. The hotel is celebrating their 39th anniversary in February. _________________________________________________ NEW NETWORKING GROUP AchieveHers is a new networking group of women created by the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce and Stephanie Schlageter of Radiance Med-Spa. Call Stephanie, at 518-7100 to join. _________________________________________________ MANUFACTURING JOBS General Electric (GE) is expanding their manufacturing operations in Clearwater which will result in 263 new jobs and a $49 million dollar expansion at their current site at 1907 Calumet Street. Instrument Transformers, a subsidiary of GE, has been at their site for 38 years. The expansion was approved by the City Council on December 5th. The move is a direct result of the Economic Development ad valorem tax exemptions program offered to new and expanding businesses _________________________________________________ PUBLIX CELEBRATES 40 YEARS The Island Estates store opened December, 1973. Louis Stavropoulos is the manager. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER HONORING FALLEN HEROES by Senator Jack Latvala For the 2014 Florida Legislative Session, I have once again filed Senate Bill 132/Specialty License Plates which will create a license plate that will commemorate law enforcement officers who have died while on duty. In early 2011, Pinellas County was stunned by the deaths of three St. Petersburg police officers. Students from the Criminal Justice Academy at Pinellas Park High School were assigned a task to memorialize the fallen officers. They decided to create a specialty license plate to commemorate these heroes and organized a group called Operation 10-24 to pursue their goal. The numbers 1024 are the radio call numbers used by police meaning “Officer in distress, Officer down”. These same students brought the idea to me to turn into legislation. The annual fee of $25 for each tag would benefit the Police and Kids Foundation, Inc. which is a 501(c) 3 nonprofit charity. Seventy percent of the funds from the tag fee would go toward training and equipment for law enforcement officer safety and 30 percent to education. This could include high school programs that have a law enforcement education focus or a scholarship for a student in the police academy. It also allows the non-profit agency to use 10 percent of the proceeds for promoting and marketing the plate. The Florida Department of Highway Safety rules require that approved specialty license plates must presell a minimum of 1,000 vouchers for the purchase of the plate within 24 months before the department can begin manufacturing the specialty license plate. Students at the Criminal Justice Academy have assured me that they will easily meet this requirement, and have nearly that many commitments already. Senate Bill 132 passed the Senate Committee on Transportation on Wednesday, October 9. It must still be heard by the Senate Rules Committee, and two Appropriations Committees before it is considered by the entire Senate during the 2014 Regular Session in March and April. Rep. Ed Hooper (R-Clearwater) has filed the companion bill, House Bill 65 in the Florida House of Representatives. If the bill passes the Legislature, it will become law on October 1, 2014. To follow the progress of these bills, visit the Senate website at www.flsenategov. This license plate is a small symbol of appreciation that the motoring public can use to convey their support for law enforcement officers. The efforts of these students are to be admired. The funds will help our current and future law enforcement officers and the license plate will memorialize fallen officers. For more information on this legislation or other state issues, Please contact my district office in Clearwater at (727) 793-2797. MARTINIS AND MATISSE… AN ART LOTTERY Martinis & Matisse is a unique, fun-filled event that draws 750 attendees each year and has consistently sold out for the past three years. You will stroll by beautifully displayed art, eat amazing food, sip smooth martinis and fine wine while enjoying live music and supporting the Clearwater Free Clinic - and maybe, just maybe you will win a beautiful piece of art. The event is Saturday, January 18th at the Frank Crum Complex. Call 331-8150 to buy tickets or go to www.MartinisAndMatisse.org. Find out more about the Free Clinic at www.ClearwaterFreeClinic.org. CHRISTMAS TREES Where Did They Come From? CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER Some may think it is a religious symbol, but Christmas trees date back thousands of years before the beginning of Christianity. In fact, early Christian leaders protested trees and all decorations during the religious season. Long before Christianity, plants remaining green in the winter were prized. During the dead of winter, they were a reminder, plants would grow again. Just as we decorate our homes today, prehistoric people hung evergreen boughs over doorways and windows. They believed it would keep away witches, ghosts, evil spirits and illness. In the Northern hemisphere, the Winter Solstice which is the shortest day of the year, is near Christmas. Primitive people celebrated that day because the Sun God, who they believe had become sick and weak, would soon get well. Egyptians celebrated by filling their homes with palms; Romans used evergreen boughs. Ancient Celts and Scandinavians also decorated with evergreens, their symbol of everlasting life. The Christmas tree tradition is traced to Germany in the 16th century. Christians had decorated trees in their homes. Some built wood pyramids, decorated with evergreens resembling trees. It is believed, the 16th Century Protestant Martin Luther, was the first to add candles. In the New World, pilgrims tried to stop “pagan mockery” and preached against “heathen traditions of Christmas carols, decorated trees and joyful expressions of the sacred event.” In 1659, Massachusetts outlawed the observance of December 25th and hanging decorations. In 1848, Queen Victoria, Prince Albert and their children appeared in the Illustrated London News standing around a Christmas tree. Victoria’s popularity caused the Christmas tree to be widely acceptable in Britain and then the U.S. when it appeared in the Philadelphia’s Godey's Magazine and Lady's Book. Still, most 19th Century Americans found Christmas trees an oddity. Pennsylvania’s German settlers had the first recorded displayed Christmas tree in the 1830s. But, many considered it a pagan symbol, not accepted by many Christians. By 1847, Pennsylvania had community trees and by the 1890s, people began using tree ornaments shipped from Germany. This caused Christmas tree’s popularity of to rise all over the U.S. Europeans liked small, four feet trees, but Americans preferred trees that reached the ceiling. The German and Irish decorated their trees with apples, nuts, cookies and brightly colored popcorn interlaced with berries and nuts. Americans decorated their trees with homemade ornaments. In the early 20th Century, electricity brought Christmas lights, making it possible for the trees to glow all season. Trees began to appear in town squares and having a Christmas tree in every home became a new American tradition. President Franklin Pierce arraigned for the first White House Christmas tree in the 1850s. President Calvin Coolidge held the first National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony on the White House lawn in 1923. New York City’s Rockefeller Center tree dates back to 1931 and is probably our best-known tree. The first tree, small and unadorned, was placed there by construction workers. Two years later, a tree covered with electric lights was used. The tallest one, a Norway spruce in 1948, measured over 100 feet. Today’s Rockefeller tree has over 25,000 lights. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER CAPITOL THEATER, continued Almost everyone who shares their memories of the Capitol Theater mentions the Roebling Chair, named for Donald Roebling who invented and built the Roebling Alligator amphibious tractor used extensively in World War II. Mr. Roebling was a popular and generous citizen of Clearwater and much admired. He was, however, a very large man, weighing around 450 pounds, and an avid movie fan. So, at some time during in the 1950s, Sparks Consolidated, operators of the theater, provided a doublewide seat for him in an ideal location. For the most part this seat was reserved for Mr. Roebling, but he seldom attended on Saturday mornings. Many Clearwater oldtimers have confessed their youthful attempts to be first in line at the box office on Saturday mornings, hoping to be the lucky couple to enjoy the movie from the coziness of the Roebling seat. A new era began when the lease of the theater ran out and was not renewed in 1979. The darkness did not last long as the Clearwater based Royalty Theater Company signed a lease in February of 1981. As an amateur theater troupe, the group of actors had performed for 10 years in the cafetorium of St. Cecelia Catholic Church, gaining a considerable reputation for the excellence of their productions. The Royalty Company promptly enlarged the stage, reducing the first floor seating from 700 to 500, and removing five rows from the balcony. They added dressing rooms, plus a sound and light booth, and, in 1981, they reopened with the play, “Oliver.” In 1984, the Suncoast Symphony Orchestra, then known as the Clearwater Symphony Orchestra, presented their first performance at the Royalty Theater. This interval of live performances and classic music was short-lived, however, as the Taylor Family sold the building in 1996, to Larry Joe Cotton of Accento Craft Inc. and the Royalty Theater Troupe moved out. By 1999 the theater was the oldest working theater in the State of Florida as Socrates and Dru Charos set out to restore its glory days. Renaming it the Royalty Theater Opera House & Museum, the Charos’ presented a variety of musicals and plays and religious events. They installed a Marr & Colton organ and redesigned the wall panels to once again provide adequate acoustics for opera performances. For eight years, under the direction of Socrates Chaos, this new version of the Royalty was also made available for use by local organizations for celebrations, performances and religious services. Finally in 2008, the City of Clearwater purchased both the theater and the next door Clearwater Sun Building, and contracted with Ruth Eckerd Hall to provide performances there temporarily. More recently the City hired Fowler Associates Architects, Inc. to design a complete renovation, including using the Sun Building for necessary expansions to make the theater usable for modern audiences, while restoring the façade and other features to the original grandeur. While it has opened already the Grand Opening Celebration is scheduled for February of 2014. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER EN GARDE HOLIDAY DATES ARE FILLING FAST!!! With the holidays upon us, En Garde catering and gourmet services is gearing up for a busy month. “We are finding that more and more clients just don’t have the time to plan and prepare for holiday parties”, explains owner Robb Schoomnmaker, “so we are trying to simplify the process by offering a variety of easy to prepare holiday selections.” Though they are still in the process of relocating their retail store, En Garde’s catering operation is still in full swing and they can easily drop-off both hot and cold holiday appetizers. “We can deliver selections already heated and plattered or you can order items to be delivered with easy reheat and serving instructions”, says Schoonmaker, “and of course we are also readily available to provide full food and beverage service with a catering staff to actually work your event.” Some of En Garde’s popular party selections include Mini Beef Wellingtons with Horseradish Cream, Butternut Squash Crostinis, Portobello Mushroom Puffs, Antipasto Tortellini Skewers, Mediterranean Chicken & Fig Skewers, Andouille Sausage and Shrimp Skewers, Mini Bries En Croute and Blueberry Cheese Cake Purses just to name a few. Catering inquiries may be made by phone 727-489-9297 or email info@engardecatering.com. SUNSET CINEMA AT PIER 60 Sunset Cinema provides free movies on the beach every Friday and Saturday. Beach towels, blankets and low lawn chairs are welcome. Movies begin at dusk. Popcorn and beverages will be available on site. JANUARY 3- SMURF'S 2/ PG 4- AFTER EARTH/ PG-13 10- HOOK/ PG 11- GROWN UPS 2/ PG-13 17- E.T./ PG 18- GIRL MOST LIKELY/ PG-13 24- DESPICABLE ME 2/ PG 25- FAST & FURIOUS 6/ PG-13 31- TAD THE LOST EXPLORER FEBRUARY (Not rated,children's movie) 1- THE LONE RANGER/ PG-13 7- ADVENTURES IN ZAMBEZIA/ PG 8- ROCKY/ PG 14- I HATE VALENTINE'S DAY/ PG-13 15- FOOL'S GOLD/ PG-13 21- ONE DIRECTION-THIS IS US/ PG 22- GOOD OL' FREDA/ PG 28- CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MEATBALLS 2/ PG See the complete schedule online at www.SunsetsAtPier60.com or by calling 449-1036. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER Organizational News... CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER CLEARWATER BEACH ROTARY 60 YEARS OF SERVICE In 1953, Clearwater Beach was a partially developed island with a scattering of homes on North Clearwater Beach, a meager business section, and a few tourist cottages. Nevertheless Clearwater Beach businessman, Clifford A. McKay, Sr. decided the community needed its own Rotary Club where vacationing Rotarians could do their make-up attendance at a small, friendly and conveniently located club. He signed up 24 members, but 25 were required, so he called Clearwater Rotarian Curt Earl away from his golf game in Pinehurst, North Carolina. “Curt,” he said, “We need one more member before we can charter our club. You’re it.” On November 2, 1953, the Clearwater Beach Rotary Club was chartered at the Clearwater Yacht Club, then on the corner of Mandalay Avenue and Bay Esplanade. Both Clifford and Curt were active in the club for the rest of their lives. After 60 years, the McKay family is still represented in the club by Major McKay’s son-in-law, Berle Garris, who holds the current record of 40 years perfect attendance. Some members of the sponsoring Clearwater Rotary Club transferred to the Beach Club. Other charter members were retired Rotarians and Clearwater Beach businessmen. In 1987, Clearwater Beach businesswoman Pat Lokey was the first female member of the club, which now has a sizeable contingent of women members. The Clearwater Beach Rotary Club has remained small but vigorous. Projects of the club have included Bingo games to entertain visitors and raise funds for projects, sponsorship of a Little League Baseball Team, scholarship assistance to local high school graduates, Christmas for needy families, and “adoption” of local grammar schools, to name a few. There was always fellowship. At one time, board meetings were held at the Pelican Restaurant, usually followed by a “gentlemanly” game of poker. Now, the whole club socializes monthly at the Hyatt Hotel on the South Beach. In 1956, the Club participated in the Rotary International goal of improving international relationships by supporting Clifford Anderson McKay, Jr. as a Rotary Fellow, studying in Ceylon. The club also hosted Japanese Rotary Fellow Royei Asaoka during the 1957 Christmas holidays and they continue to host Rotary delegations from around the world. Recently the Clearwater Beach Rotary Club contributed to the funding for Rotary International’s worldwide drive to eliminate Polio. Currently the Club meets on Thursdays at noon at Shepherd’s Restaurant on South Clearwater Beach. ISLAND ESTATES CIVIC ASSOCIATION They installed the annual Holiday Light Display just before Thanksgiving and it will stay in place until the new years. The Annual Winter Social was held at Island Way Grill on December 10th. The Association’s Membership Drive is now in progress with a goal of reaching at least 500 households in 2014. To join call Mary Lau at 813-3356770 or visit myislandestates.org. Membership is $50 per year per family. They meet on the second Monday of each month in the new Clearwater Marine Aquarium Classroom Building. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER UPCOMING HERITAGE VILLAGE EVENTS Jan. 19 - Speaking of History Lecture - Finding the Fountain of Youth; Ponce de León and Florida’s Magical Waters: Author Rick Kilby describes how the search for treasures along Florida’s waters five hundred years ago continues to remain part of the mystique of Florida today. Dreamers, opportunists, developers, young families, tourists, and retirees often seek to enrich themselves and enjoy Florida’s bountiful wealth. Kilby illustrates how fictional mythology has sustained the legend and transformed the historical record of our populous peninsula. Book sale and signing will follow the program. 2 p.m. Free. Heritage Village, 11909 125th Street N., Largo. (727) 582-2123. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage Jan. 25 - Pinellas Folk Festival: Dozens of Tampa Bay area's premier folk musicians will be playing traditional folk, gospel, country music on stages throughout Heritage Village. Sponsored by the Pinellas County Historical Society. There will be historical demonstrations and activities. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free to children under 12; requested minimum donation of $5 per adult. Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N. Largo. Shuttle to event entrance located from free parking on 119th St. between Ulmerton and Walsingham Roads; handicapped parking and drop-off located at 12211 Walsingham Road. (727) 582-2123; www.pinellascounty.org/heritage Feb. 15 - New volunteer orientation set at Heritage Village: Learn about volunteering with Pinellas County’s Heritage Village at a volunteer orientation on Saturday, Feb.15, at 10 a.m. This orientation is planned for adults interested in becoming docents/tour guides and museum greeters. Other volunteer positions are also available. Heritage Village’s volunteers provide the community with a greater understanding of local and state history and underscore the importance of preserving it for future generations. For more information about volunteering or the orientation, call (727) 582-2125. Heritage Village, 11909 125th Street North, Largo. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage Feb. 16 - Speaking of History Lecture - Finding More of Florida: Cathy Salustri’s popular program in February 2013 traced her journey of nearly 5,000 miles within Florida in a camper van to witness how the landscape had changed since the publication of Florida: A Guide to the Southernmost State in 1939. This book, published by the Federal Writers Project of the Works Progress Administration during the Great Depression, sought to promote tourism in the remote peninsula. Join us as we take another journey with her along roads, past and present 2 p.m. Free. Heritage Village, 11909 125th Street N., Largo. (727) 582-2123. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage Mar.16 - Speaking of History: Women of the Florida Frontier: Ms. Elizabeth Neily will focus on notable contributions of women on the Florida frontier. She may talk about the Spanish conquistadoras, Native American women, or other pioneer women. 2 p.m. Free. Heritage Village, 11909 125th Street N., Largo. (727) 582-2123. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER FIRST NIGHT - FIRST FLIGHT NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION Florida's largest and most popular First Night event, returns for its 21st year on New Year's Eve from 4pm to midnight. First Night St. Petersburg 2014 presented by The Edwards Group, will feature its usual fabulous lineup of more than 20 venues. This year's event will honor the 100th Anniversary of the Tony Jannus flight which started the commercial airline industry. FirstKids venue begins the downtown activities at 4pm, with hat and mask making, the Second Time Arounders Musical Petting Zoo, Art in Flight Projects from the Morean Center and the St. Petersburg Library’s Puppet Show. FirstKids will finish with the Procession of Flight soaring down to the waterfront at 7pm lead by the Mount Zion Drumline and Color Guard for the Bubble Stomp and the First Fireworks. In Williams Park, The Warehouse Arts District Artists (WADA) will Light Up the New Year with Luminous Flight sculptural lanterns. First Night goers will be able to participate in hands-on demos by WADA artists including glass etching, flight based clay creations, and decorating a Chinese style Dragon. Plan to join the Dragon Procession to the Waterfront at 10 pm. While you are making art you can listen to a mix of music by Halibut, Altus Noumena, Mark Castle and DC9V on stage. They are presenting outstanding Jazz at the First United Methodist Church with local favorites La Lucha Jazz Trio with Jun Bustamante, O Som do Jazz and the Whitney James Quintet. The Plaza Courtyard is featuring Bluegrass with the Florida Mountain Boys and tasty BBQ presented by the Witch and the Ale, St. Petersburg Opera presents favorite arias and fabulous chamber music, featuring current and past St. Pete Opera Idol winners in the Cathedral of St. Peter. New this year is TASCO’s Young Talent Showcase and Music from the MIRA program at SPC, in Straub park. The Finale Stage will feature the incredible alternative folk favorites Have Gun Will Travel and they will finish the night with the sacred steel sounds of the Lee Boys. On the Dance Stage will be First Night Favorites Dundu Dole and the Florida West Ballet. The Pathfinder Tree Climbing that was such a hit last year is back. Sign up early as it sold out quickly last year! New Year’s Resolutions can be made at the Bonfire and at the Resolution Fire Phoenix. Participants can walk from venue to venue along St. Petersburg's sidewalks and shops. Throw some paint at the paintball mural and look for street performers as you stroll. Admission buttons, designed by artist Carrie Jadus will feature flashing lights, to light the way into the new year. The buttons support First Night and will go on sale Thanksgiving around the area including Starbucks, The Morean Arts Center, Articles Gallery, the St. Petersburg Chamber of Commerce and the Museum of Fine Arts and online at www.firstnightstpete.com. Advance Price: $10 adults, $5 children 6-12, Children 5 and under are free. Dec. 31st Price: $15 adults, $10 children 6-12, Children 5 and under are free For more information or to volunteer for a shift at First Night, call 727-823-8906 or send an email to info@firstnightstpete.com More Organizational News CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER BELLEAIR BEACH LADIES LUNCHEON CLUB They meet monthly on the second Tuesday. Membership is open to area residents at $15 a year. To join, please call Barbara Chapman at 581-8929. FRIENDS OF THE LIBRARY They have started their 2014 membership drive to attract people who share the goal of keeping the Rec Center, Library and Pool open and providing services for all the residents of Clearwater Beach. Dues are reduced this year to only $20 for individuals and $30 for families. Pick up a membership application at the Rec Center or Library, and become a part of this group. They are looking for a volunteer Treasurer starting in January. Ron Delp is currently the Treasurer. They meet the third Monday of each month at 10am at the Beach Rec Center. Call Anne Garris (President) at 4464410 or Jewels Chandler at 729-4479 for more information BELLEAIR GARDEN CLUB Formed in 1947, they celebrated their 66th anniversary in February. They meet on the first and second Wednesday of each month at the Belleair Garden Club at 903 Ponce de Leon Blvd. in the Town of Belleair from October to May. Their next meetings is January 15th. Membership is $50 per year. Guests are welcome. Call Barbara Chapman, 581-8929 or E-mail BChapman1234@Gmail.com, to RSVP. CLEARWATER GARDEN CLUB Located at 405 Seminole Street, they meet on the second Friday, October through May at 9:30am. January 10, 10am at the Garden Club speaker Shell Calvello of Creations Du Jour will discuss Gardening with Containers. Another meeting to be announced in January will be a games and cards party luncheon and cost $12, each. Dues are $30 for one or $35 for two from the same family. They have interesting speakers, hands-on events and field trips. New members are welcome! Reach President Cathy Foley at 443-7032. CLEARWATER ALL AMERICAN SERTOMA CLUB Mr. Craig McCart, Executive Director of the Sertoma Speech and Hearing Foundation, was the guest speaker at a recent Sertoma meeting. The mission of the Foundation is to provide quality hearing aids, hearing related products and services to the children of Florida. SERTOMA is an acronym for SERvice TO MAnkind. They are dedicated to helping the less fortunate, specifically those with speech and hearing difficulties. They meet the first and third Thursdays of each month for lunch. Call Sand Key resident Charles Fazio at 593-8322. SAND KEY CIVIC ASSOCIATION On January 8th, Steve Miller, the new manager of the Marriott Suites on Sand Key, will be their guest speaker. February 5th, they are planning to have a candidates forum for the candidates of Congressional District 13 race (Bill Young’s seat). They meet once a month on the first Wednesday of each month at 7pm in the Clearwater Community Sailing Center. Call current president Arlene Musselwhite at 644-7524. Their web site is www.SKCA.org. More Organizational News CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER CLEARWATER YACHT CLUB They held a Toys For Tots dinner to start off their collection of toys donated to the US Marine program. Representing the program was Sgt LeRoy Mateaki, and Private Adam Lowell. The Clearwater Yacht Club Gulls have been sponsoring this program for many years. The Yacht Club celebrated the end of the annual Island Estates Lighted Boat Parade at their club where the judging was done with a large after party. They are also hosting a New Years Eve party for members only If this sounds like your kind of fun, the Club has a special membership promotion currently in effect. Now is the time to join! Call or stop by 830 South Bayway Blvd. CLEARWATER HISTORICAL SOCIETY The Historical Society was proud to be a part of the grand reopening of the Capitol Theater in downtown Clearwater. They look forward to celebrating the City’s 100th Anniversary in 2015. They will be promoting fundraisers to help raise money for their new museum. Memberships are $5 students, $10 individuals, $20 family, $150 corporate. To get involved, please call President David Allbritton (727) 481-5102, Bill Wallace (727) 446-2676 or Mike Sanders (727) 434-1684. ISLAND ESTATES YACHT CLUB Their Lighted Boat Parade was December 14th, one of the largest and most popular marine events in the Clearwater Area. They want to thank everyone who participated. Save the date in 2014 for the next parade: December 13th. Their Annual Meeting was November 16th at the Belleview Golf Club. An election was held and the following people were elected for 2014: Dr Bob Gunther, Commodore, Paul Lightfoot, Vice Commodore, Vivian Smith, Rear Commodore and Marcia Coxhead, Secretary. Call Scott Sanders at 461-3949, Laura Lee Bernard at 442-1978 or Sue Speck at 446-0682, for club info. ISLAND ESTATES WOMAN’S CLUB At a Cleawater Beach Yacht Club lunch meeting, they had the new manager of the Capitol Theater speak. The December meeting at the Carlouel Yacht Club was their holiday party. The guest speaker was from Clothes-ForKids. The January 21st luncheon will be at the Marrriott Sand Key at Watercolours Restaurant. Reserve by January 17th The Club meets September - May, on the third Tuesday of the month at area restaurants. Members enjoy activities including book group, bowling and bridge. The group encourages a spirit of goodwill and cooperation in affairs pertaining to the welfare and betterment of the community. CLEARWATER BEACH ASSOCIATION They meet on the first Tuesday of every month at 6:30 pm at the Clearwater Beach Rec Center. The next meetings are January 7 and February 4. At the December 13th meeting, a new board was elected. It is time for you to mail in your annual dues. Currently there are only 100 paying members from over 2,000 households. They are a Neighborhood Association organized to promote projects of a civic, recreational and entertainment nature. This is their 70th year. For more information, call Wendy Hutkin’s ,216-3274 or visit www.ClearwaterBeachAssociation.net. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER READY FOR YOUNGER LOOKING SKIN? By Stephanie Schlageter, Radiance Medspa The holidays are back again! It’s time to overindulge, under sleep and visit people you might not have seen since last year’s festivities. What if this year you could come through this busy time looking so well rested – as in “younger” – that you will have people guessing what your secret is? Instead of frown lines, dry skin and a tired appearance, you could have smooth, soft skin that gives you a reason to smile. It won’t take major surgery to accomplish all of this by the Thanksgiving get-together. Younger looking skin and reduced lines on any part of the face can be had with a short office visit to a reputable medspa where treatments like BOTOX, Juvéderm and microdermabrasion offer natural looking results and will have you looking and feeling plucky in time for turkey. Each of these treatments is a no-stress, non-invasive and safe procedure requiring little or no downtime. And they can all offer big results in just one visit. Even better, none of these treatments will break the bank. You might already be familiar with at least one or two of them. First, there is BOTOX, which happens to be the world’s most popular non-surgical cosmetic medical treatment. Fine lines around the eyes, between the eyebrows and on the forehead can all be ghosts of holidays past when BOTOX is given by an experienced injector. (Safety first did you know that in Florida, only medical doctors, nurse practitioners and physicians assistants are legally permitted to perform injections?) BOTOX causes the muscles to relax in the places where it is injected. This means, holiday stress will not be able to show up on your face as a worried, wrinkled brow. Next, you can turn that frown upside down with the amazing injectable filler Juvéderm, which plumps up wrinkles and fills in lines. Products like Juvéderm are typically used for lines around the mouth as well as the hollow areas under eyes. To handle the rough, dry skin that can accompany this time of year – possibly as the result of a few extra cocktails – microdermabrasion, safely performed by a trained medical aesthetician, utilizes a highly controlled flow of fine, medical grade crystals to remove the outermost layer of skin. It’s a deep exfoliation that sloughs off old damaged cells and encourages the development of healthy cells, collagen and elastin. While the best microdermabrasion results come with repeated treatments, even one pre-holiday visit will make a visible difference. ‘Tis the season to treat yourself right. With these moderately priced treatments, you might even consider helping friends and family look and feel great too. Medpsa gift certificates make ideal holiday presents! For information, contact Radiance Medspa at 727-518-7100 or visit radiancemedspa.com. Radiance Medspa is in its 8th year at 2894 West Bay Drive in Belleair Bluffs. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER PINELLAS COUNTY EMPLOYEES ROLL OUT SHINY NEW BIKES Pinellas County employees rolled 43 new bicycles along the halls and down the stairs of the County Courthouse in Clearwater Friday morning. The bikes were loaded onto Mosquito Control trucks and transported to the Pinellas County Health and Community Services offices in St. Petersburg and Clearwater. They will go to pre-approved families that are clients of the county’s Health and Community Services department so that their children will have gleaming new bicycles this holiday season. Now in its 27th year, the bicycle drive is a team project. County employees from 16 departments donated money throughout the year to go toward the purchase of the bicycles and helmets. Pinellas County Real Estate Management Dept. delivered the bicycles to the courthouse. County employees also donated items to fulfill wish lists offered to eligible clients of Pinellas County Health and Community Services. The wish lists included personal products, household goods and linens. For more information on Pinellas County services and programs, visit www.pinellascounty.org or create a shortcut to www.pinellascounty.org/mobile on any smartphone. Pinellas County government is on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Pinellas County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act CLEARWATER BEACH WALK The 5th Annual Beach Walk will be held on Clearwater Beach at 8am, Saturday, January 25th. The two-mile beach walk starts at The Palm Pavilion and ends at the Chapel by the Sea where a pancake breakfast will be held for participants and their guests. Day of registration begins at 7:30am with the walk beginning at 8am. Last year, the event generated food and donations in excess of $10,000. Proceeds go to RCS of Clearwater who provide food, shelter, safety and clothing to over 35,000 Pinellas residents. Registrants will receive a dry fit Walk/Walk T-shirt and goodie bag full of good stuff. The event costs $20 for adults, $10 for children (6-18), and children six are free. Bring nonperishable food donations that day. To register or for more information, please call 446-0430 or visit www.ChapelByTheSea.com. SEA BLUES FESTIVAL The 8th Annual Sea-Blues Festival, a FREE two-day music festival in Coachman Park, is February 15 and 16. The weekend is complete with food and a variety of national recording artists, including performances by Vintage Trouble, The Robert Cray Band, Savory Brown, Ft. Kim Simmonds and Ana Popvic. Advanced Reserved Seating is available. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER ‘TIS THE SEASON FOR SAFE SHOPPING by Commission Chair Karen Williams Seel It’s that time of the year again. The malls are packed, online sales beckon and the carefully crafted holiday shopping budget strains against the demands placed on it. Yes, it’s holiday season again. Whether you love the hustle and bustle of the holiday shopping season or you cringe at the thought, Pinellas County Consumer Protection wants to help by offering five simple tips to ensure a safer – and saner – holiday season. First, set a budget and stick to it. Without a list of who has been naughty or nice, it may be very easy to blow your budget. Layaway can be a great option at some stores, so check their policies carefully. Some people manage better when they use cash – once it’s gone, it’s gone. Credit and debit cards, however, allow you to dispute suspicious charges and many companies offer extended warranties and other perks simply for using their card. For every list, there are several ways to save. Check sales circulars and online sales. Some apps for your smart phone can help you do quick comparison shopping on the sales floor, and can find competitors’ pricing, should the store you are shopping at offer price matching. Keep in mind is that the later you shop, the more it may cost to ship your package if it’s going to a far away friend or family member. While gift giving is a holiday tradition, for others, exchanging or returning gifts may also be part of their plans. Before you shop, double check all store refund policies. Stores with norefund/exchange policies should prominently display signs by their register or online. Some stores charge a restocking or return fee, so be sure to ask before you purchase. Just in case you missed on the size, color or style of a gift, ask for a gift receipt, to make the exchange process an easier one. Online shopping has been one of the most popular ways to avoid parking hassles and crowds at malls and it also comes with its own set of concerns. For instance, be sure to deal only with reputable sellers. If you aren’t familiar with a company, read online reviews of their service and policies. Save all records, including the online transaction receipt, product description and expected delivery dates. Each online store will have its own return policies/fees, so be sure to note those. Safeguard your online shopping information. Avoid doing business with companies demanding you share detailed personal information, such as Social Security numbers, mother’s maiden name or passwords. Finally, while everyone may seem to be in the festive holiday mood, there are some who can’t resist the opportunity to play the Scrooge. The holiday season is high time for charitable donations and for charity fraud. Beware the email, phone call or text message demanding on-the-spot donations. Be sure to do your research – many charities use names similar to reputable organizations. Protect your information while out shopping. With so much activity, it would be easy for a pickpocket to do his or her worst. Always protect your PIN from prying eyes at the cash register or ATM. For extra protection, be sure to stash those holiday bundles in your car’s trunk or other hidden area. Those seeming innocent electronic thank you notes or funny holiday greeting cards can contain spyware or viruses that download when opened or when you download the card. For more tips on shopping safely, call (727) 464-6200 or visit pinellascounty.org/consumer. With these simple tips, your holidays should be memorable – for all the right reasons. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER CAPITOL THEATRE DESIGN from the staff at Decker Ross We were pleased to be included in the extraordinary renovation of this truly historic Clearwater landmark. As longtime area residents, we have fond memories of watching great movies accompanied by those delicious giant dill pickles, plucked from the authentic wooden barrel in the lobby! So you can imagine our excitement, when we were approached for design guidance based on the premise that the overall goal of the project was to blend authentic design elements reminiscent of the original time period with updated features that meet current standards. Fortunately, we had the honor of working with the reputable and talented Creative Contractors group, led by Alan Bomstein, along with local architect, Steve Fowler, along with talented visionaries from Ruth Eckerd Hall, including Zev Buffman, Jeff Hartzog and Kathy Rabon. The entire team met regularly to make necessary and sometimes tough decisions along the way. For our part, Decker Ross Interiors was brought in specifically to consult on design, colors, lighting, finishes and artistic accents throughout, as well as some furniture and window treatments in the Dress Circle Lounge. As with most large projects, there were budget and time constraints, as well as a variety of opinions to be considered. It was such a collaborative effort that we often joked, “If you love what you see- then it was our idea- if not, then someone else pushed for that to be changed or included!.” No, but all joking aside, we believe the patrons will marvel at the completed project and enjoy a variety of first class shows for many, many years to come. It is truly a first class multi-generational venue, and we are very proud and honored to have been a part of this wonderful renovation. A BEAUTIFUL THEATER RETURNS by Jeffrey L. Hartzog, General Manager The Capitol Theatre & Special Projects, Ruth Eckerd Hall The historic capital theater has been my passion for the last 2 plus years since Ruth Eckerd Hall and I have been involved. From the beginning, I deemed myself a historian and its been an amazing journey through the history of Clearwater to find out as much as I could about the theater and surrounding buildings. Not only has it been fascinating learning more about the chronological history, but more importantly listening and learning about the fond memories of our guests that enjoyed coming to movies, shows and live performances over the years. I know when past patrons return, or new guests come to the theater, and see what we have transformed it into - returning it to its past elegance – they will say with certainly that this is their theater, their cornerstone of Clearwater, their catalyst for change and a place to be proud of. CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER CLEARWATER BEACH NEWSLETTER CELEBRATE THE HOLIDAYS AT HERITAGE VILLAGE Share the holiday season at Pinellas County’s Heritage Village, enchanting visitors to this 21-acre living history museum. Historical houses will be decorated true to their time period, locality and lifestyle, from an elaborately decorated Victorian home to a simply adorned 1852 log cabin Visitors can also find one-of-a-kind holiday gifts at the Beach Cottage Gift Shop. Featuring wooden toys, glassware and collectibles, vintage citrus crate label reproductions and other note cards, scented candles, home decor and handicrafts, there's plenty of unique items perfect for giving or for treating yourself! The Gift Shop at Heritage Village is operated by the Pinellas County Historical Society. Proceeds benefit ongoing museum programs and projects The natural pine and palmetto landscape is home to some of Pinellas County's most historic buildings. First opened to the public in 1977, Heritage Village is funded in its operations by the Board of County Commissioners and supported in its activities by the Pinellas County Historical Society and other community groups. More than 28 historic structures and features, some dating back to the 19th century, include a school, church, sponge warehouse, railroad depot and store as well as a variety of historic homes. Heritage Village is located at 11909 125th St. N. in Largo. This living history museum brings more than 150 years of local history to life. Tour 28 authentic buildings and structures, and experience historical Pinellas County through hands-on exploration. Paths wind through 21 acres and connect with the Florida Botanical Gardens. Heritage Village is open Wednesday through Saturday from 10 am to 4 pm and Sunday from 1 to 4 pm It is closed Mondays, Tuesdays and Pinellas County holidays. For information on Pinellas County services and programs, visit www.pinellascounty.org,or www.pinellascounty.org/mobile on any smartphone. Pinellas County government is on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube. Pinellas County complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act. ST PETERSBURG DOWNTOWN NEWSLETTER KEEPING YOUR WAISTLINE STABLE DURING THE HOLIDAYS AND BEYOND! by Coley Westerberg, PA-C As we age maintaining weight is harder to accomplish, and losing weight becomes even more difficult. Our bodies tend to naturally slow down, burning fewer calories at rest and in return allowing for less calorie consumption then we were used to in the past. Because of the natural digression, it is important to realize dieting isn’t for a limited time frame, it’s a lifestyle change. It is also important to realize losing weight with just diet or exercise alone only allows for limited results. It is important to build lean muscle mass by including light weight exercise to your daily routine. Muscle has the ability to burn more than 4 times as many calories than fat. Follow these helpful tips and become a success story. - Limit starch and sugar intake: Excessive insulin secretion stimulated by starch and sugar intake encourages the body to store calories as fat - Plan your meals and do not skip any: Planning meals will assist with making healthy choices and reduce likelihood of skipping a meal which can lead to over indulging - Calorie count and portion control: Hold yourself accountable for everything you are consuming, the little things can add up, ultimately leading to ongoing slow weight gain - Eat high in protein: Protein helps keep you fuller for longer and promotes lean muscle mass - Eat fresh and organic: Unfortunately many foods available are filled with growth factors and additional hormones, eating fresh and organic will help limit the exposure - Limit eating out: Frequently eating out can lead to unhealthy choices and larger portion consumption than you would if preparing your own meal - Eat meals at the dinner table: Eating on the couch, while watching TV, or in the car, can create habitual eating habits based on activity rather than truly feeling hungry - Stay hydrated: Don’t confuse thirst with hunger - Ensure 7-8 hrs of sleep a night: Sleep deprivation alters levels of hormones in the body that regulate hunger, causing an increase in appetite - Skip soda: Simply eliminating empty calories can help shed pounds - Diet with a friend: Accountability is key - Exercise daily and use the stairs: Promote energy expenditure and increase resting metabolic rate If you still need the extra boost, no worries. There are plenty of medically supervised weight loss programs available. Many programs vary offering plans with all natural ingredients, to controlled substances including appetite suppressants and hCG. “The rest of the world lives to eat, while I eat to live.” Socrates For more information about weightloss and weight management, contact PureLife Medispa and Wellness at 727-595-3400 or visit purelifemedispa.com. PureLife Medispa is located at 12442 Indian Rocks Road, across from Anona Elementary. ST PETERSBURG DOWNTOWN NEWSLETTER ST PETERSBURG DOWNTOWN NEWSLETTER WITH GRATITUDE, WE REMEMBER CONGRESSMAN BILL YOUNG From the Tampa Bay Estuary Program It is with great sadness that the Tampa Bay region marked the passing of Congressman Bill Young last month. While many people are aware of his tremendous support for public health, transportation, sustainable water supplies, and active and retired military personnel, they may not be aware of his pivotal role in the creation of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program. In 1990, Congressman Young reached across the political aisle to work with Congressman Sam Gibbons, a Democrat, to sponsor the legislation that established Tampa Bay as one of only 28 "estuaries of national significance." Hillsborough County Commissioner Jan Platt was also instrumental in this effort. The result of this truly bipartisan initiative was an infusion of federal funds to jump-start efforts to restore Tampa Bay through the community partnership that is the Tampa Bay Estuary Program. In the ensuing 23 years, Tampa Bay has become an international success story. Overall water quality in the bay is now as good as it was in the 1950s, and we are regaining life-sustaining underwater seagrasses at an alltime high average of 730 acres per year, putting us within reach of our goal of 38,000 acres baywide. In 2011, Congressman Young entered a Proclamation into the Congressional Record, recognizing the 20th Anniversary of the Tampa Bay Estuary Program and stating that it was "an honor to be a partner in this incredible successful partnership that has made an invaluable contribution to restoring this unique Florida ecosystem." It has been our great honor to have had Congressman Young's support and engagement throughout the years. Tampa Bay's recovery is a testimony to his dedication. ST PETERSBURG DOWNTOWN NEWSLETTER CLEARWATER RESIDENT GOES TO PILLSBURY BAKE-OFF by Debbie Reid On Monday, November 11, 2013 the Ironwood Ballroom at the Aria Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, Nevada was transformed into 100 mini-kitchens to host the 46th Pillsbury Bake-off. My name is Debbie Reid, a regular girl from Clearwater, who sits behind a desk five days a week at the City of Clearwater, in the administrative division of the Parks and Recreation Department. But on that Monday, I was stationed at range number 43, vying against 99 other contestants for the life-changing grand prize of one million dollars, yes ONE MILION dollars! I was listed in the Doable Dinners category, making my Sweet Pulled Pork Pizza. Contestants were provided with enough ingredients to make their entry three times, if needed, within the three and a half hours allotted for the actual Bake-off contest. Luckily, I didn’t need to make it three times before I had an entry that was perfect and ready for turn-in. I tested one crust to see how the oven was running, then went to town and baked the perfect pizza. My official turn-in time was 9:51 am. Yes, I remember the exact time, and to be honest, will probably remember it for a long time! The experience was one I waited a life-time for. As a child, I remember the Bake-off taking place and always thought how exciting it would be to participate. A few years ago I entered the Bake-off for the first time, but didn’t make the cut. I have entered each time since, submitting more entries than the time before. This year, I finally made the semi-finals, but they added a new spin; the semi-finalists had to go to public vote to make it to the finals. It was two weeks of voting hell begging everyone you know, and those you don’t, to vote for you. But it worked and by the grace of God I made it through the voting process. Sad to say, I didn’t win the million dollars, but boy, did I have a fabulous time. Pillsbury knows how to treat you; everything was top notch! Pillsbury will be releasing the rules for the 47th Pillsbury Bake-off, which will be held in Nashville next year. I will once again spend all my free time experimenting in the kitchen, trying for a chance to attend the mother of all contests; if I do, you may just hear from me again, begging for your votes and support!! DEBBIE’S SWEET PULLED PORK PIZZA Ingredients: 1 can Pillsbury® refrigerated thin pizza crust 1 package (12 oz.) fully cooked sauceless hickory smoked seasoned pulled pork ½ cup Smucker's® Orchard's Finest® Coastal Valley Peach Apricot Preserves 4 oz. blue cheese, crumbled (1 cup) 8 oz. extra sharp white Cheddar cheese, shredded (2 cups) ½ cup finely chopped red onion ¼ cup chopped walnuts Instructions: Heat oven to 400°F. Spray 15x10-inch pan with sides with Crisco® Cooking Spray. Unroll dough in pan; prick several times with fork. Bake 8 minutes. Microwave pork directed on package; set aside. Spread preserves over partially baked crust to within 1/2-inch of edges. Top with pulled pork, blue cheese, Cheddar cheese and onion. Bake 8 minutes; top with walnuts. Bake 5 minutes longer or until crust is brown and cheese is melted. ST PETERSBURG DOWNTOWN NEWSLETTER CAPITOL THEATER As We Remember It I moved to downtown Clearwater in 1971 and remember the Capitol Theater well. It was where I saw the movie JAWS and afterwards swore I would never go in the Gulf again. Which says a lot coming from a girl who spent 80% of her life in the Gulf. Later we heard the stories of when Socrates bought and remodeled it; ghost stories started whizzing around town. A paranormal professor from USF even come out to study the source of the spirits. The Capitol had it all - remarkable tales, plays, dancing, vaudeville, movies and murder. Darlene Kole, CEO, Clearwater Beach Chamber When we were young, my brothers and I, along with our friends would go downtown to the Capitol Theater on Saturday mornings. They offered a children’s film series which included games and raffles. It was a big treat for us. One of our friends once won a bike and we had to call his parents to drive over and pick it up. My brothers and I have reminisced about those good ol’ days and the movies of that era. We plan to experience ‘The Cap’ with the next generation of Hamiltons and make new memories. Ken Hamilton, Palm Pavilion Beachside Grill. I recall the Army troops standing in front of the Capitol, marching and doing their gun thing so flawlessly, then marching east on Cleveland Street. It was a frequent event held in front of the theater. I remember back then, they spelled it theatre. My 1955 high school annual has a group photo taken in front of the Capitol. Patsy Roberts Moore In 1963, I recall standing in line to see JAMES BOND’S DR NO. It was probably the first time I was in that theater and I thought how super neat this theater is. Jack Strauss, Clearwater Beach I had returned home to Clearwater from serving in France and had just purchased a brand new powder blue Mustang. I headed downtown to the Capitol to see the wow movie of the year, MRS ROBINSON with Dustin Hoffman. The line to get it was long, but the movie exceeded my expectations. The Capitol Theater was not much of a show place, as I recall. Our revival of the old movie theater to a performing arts center has given it the grandeur it never had. Larry Gerwig, Creative Contractors, Supervising the Capitol Theater project and Indian Rocks Resident In 1969, high school friend Fred Arsneault and I, decided to see MIDNIGHT COWBOY at the Capitol. Although a freshman at the University of South Florida, I was not old enough to see the film because of its rating. I finally convinced them to take my money and let me inside. At the time, my mother Lillian Lacrampe, was Director of Conventions and Tourism at the nearby Chamber of Commerce. I was an intern for her in that building (which is now gone) next to the library; it had a stunning view of the Harbor. To this day, my mother’s favorite movie quote is from Dustin Hoffman’s Ratso from that movie - ‘Hey, I’m walkin’ here.’ Carla Lacrampe Roy The Capitol Theater was a big part of my childhood. I have many fond memories of it with friends and family. In 1965, I remember standing in line for the first Beatle movie, HELP. The line went around the building to the south, near City Hall. After the movie, we all went to the five and dime Woolworths, for a soda and popcorn. That was a time when children could take a bus, hang out and shop and see a movie. I also went to Hell Night for Clearwater High School’s graduation, which was always held at the Capitol. Suzanne Thayer, former Clearwater resident now Indian Rocks Resident ST PETERSBURG DOWNTOWN NEWSLETTER