Viewing Profile: Connie Langhorst

• About Connie Langhorst
  A Broker Associate with Wave Realty of Tampa Bay, I live and work in the South Gulf Beaches area of Pinellas County, and specialize in residential real estate, short sale and foreclosure properties, rentals, and property management in the waterfront communities of Tierra Verde, Bayway Isles, Dolphin Cay, Bacopa Bay, Broadwater, Maximo Moorings, Isla del Sol, Pass-a-Grille, Vina del Mar, and St. Pete Beach.
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  Latest Posts by Connie Langhorst

• Fort De Soto – Quartermaster Storehouse Museum

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: April 26, 2011

  Fort De Soto Park, the largest park in the Pinellas County park system, is located in Tierra Verde (FL) at the mouth of Tampa Bay on the Gulf of Mexico and consists of 1,136 acres made up of five interconnected islands (keys).  

  The largest island is Mullet Key, where the Quartermaster Storehouse Museum is located.

  Battery Laidley was the primary defense and Battery Bigelow was the secondary defense for Fort De Soto. Even though Battery Bigelow was destroyed during the hurricane of 1921, the Fort De Soto batteries were placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1977. Visitors can walk through Battery Laidley, home to the last four surviving carriage-mounted 12-inch seacoast mortars in the continental United States.

  In the 1990s, historical interpretation was provided to park visitors with the creation of the display room, room descriptions, and a history booklet, about Battery Laidley. Visitors thought the battery comprised the entire post, not realizing that there were 29 wooden buildings and structures as part of the former military post. Construction of the Fort De Soto gun batteries and various post buildings began in 1898 and continued through 1907. The Quartermaster Storehouse building was originally built as a Post Exchange. The army post remained active until 1910. A caretaking detachment was left in charge of the post. During the 1920s and 1930s, hurricanes hit the area, damaging the buildings. The post buildings were sold for salvage and torn down in 1939.

  With the reconstruction of the post’s brick roads and cornerstones of the post buildings in the mid-1990s, the historical trail leads park visitors from Battery Laidley to the locations of former post buildings. Park staff, volunteers, and visitors discussed the reconstruction of one or more of these buildings. The concept became a reality in 1999 when the Friends of Fort De Soto, Inc., a citizen support organization, applied for and received a matching grant from the state Historical Museums Grants-in-Aid Program for museum exhibits.

  Using historical photographs, Army engineering condition reports, and government documents, the architect worked diligently to duplicate the size, scale, and massing of the original Quartermaster Storehouse building. The reconstructed 833-square-foot wooden building was built entirely by park staff. The head carpenter acted as the site contractor and the park’s mason laid the brick footers. Employees worked to install the cedar shakes on the roof, while others painted the exterior of the building.

  At first glimpse, inside the museum, visitors see the post’s quartermaster surrounded by supplies he would have issued to the soldiers. Wall panels reveal the earliest history from the 16th century when Spanish conquistadors encountered the Tocobaga Indians in the Tampa Bay area and several panels on the Spanish-American War and its impact on the Tampa Bay area.

  The wall panels are complemented by a touch-screen computer program with information, images, narration, and historical film clips. Visitors can learn about the earliest area history to present day information on the Friends of Fort De Soto, nature trails, and other park features. Three display cases contain Spanish-American War items, recovered artifacts from the park, and World War II military history, including an original practice bomb from the Mullet Key Bombing Range that was found in the park. A porch scene provides a glimpse of daily life with a woman’s dress, a deck of playing cards, a rattlesnake skin, and other items from the early 1900s period. The largest wall panel is a combination of three photographs showing the post buildings. Since most park visitors are unfamiliar with the army’s coast artillery corps, one wall panel provides the history, photographs of soldiers in uniform, and contains patches and pins. The museum officially opened on Veteran’s Day – November 11, 2000.

  With this historical addition to Fort De Soto Park, the County hopes to spotlight the historical significance that Fort De Soto played in the history of the United States.

  Fort De Soto Park’s Quartermaster Storehouse Museum project received a meritorious award in the category of non-residential restoration/rehabilitation from The Florida Trust for Historic Preservation during the 2001 Annual Statewide Preservation awards program held in Jacksonville on May 19, 2001.

  A place of historical significance . . . in Paradise Found!

  ABOUT FORT DE SOTO PARK:

  The Park is home to beach plants, mangroves, wetlands, palm hammocks, hardwoods and scores of native plants. Each of these species plays a vital role in the preservation and protection of the natural environment.

  Whether you are sitting on the beach or kayaking near the still water’s edge at Fort De Soto, you find yourself absorbed in the abundance of natural beauty for as far as the eye can see. The complexity of the ecology is not immediately apparent, but the park offers the greatest diversity of systems just about anywhere. Emerging from the wealth of bird life, sea life, wild life and plant life is the majestic tapestry called Fort De Soto.

  Another amazing example of the importance of the park’s natural ecosystems is the more than 290 species of birds that have been documented by ornithologists. The beach also provides refuge to the loggerhead sea turtle, which nests between April and September.

  Fort De Soto was named America’s Top Beach for 2009-10 by TripAdvisor, the world’s largest online travel community. In 2005, “Dr. Beach,” named Fort De Soto the nation’s #1 Beach.  Annual park attendance averages more than 2.7 million visitors.  Click here to learn more about upcoming Fort De Soto Park events. 

  Fort De Soto Park
  3500 Pinellas Bayway S., Tierra Verde, FL 33715
  Park Office (727) 552-1862
  Automated Information Message: (727) 582-2267

  FREE ADMISSION! (Donations accepted.)

  

  

  

  
  
  

  CREDITS:  www.PinellasCounty.org.  4/24/11.

• Midday By The Bay

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: April 8, 2011

  The Mahaffey Theater and The Dali Museum Present:
  MIDDAY BY THE BAY

  “MIDDAY BY THE BAY” SERIES OFFERED BY PROGRESS ENERGY CENTER’S MAHAFFEY THEATER & NEW DALI  MUSEUM EVERY FRIDAY FROM APRIL 22 THROUGH MAY 27 FROM 12 to 2 PM.

  Proudly presented by WMNF 88.5 and *tbt.
  

  Referred to as the City’s new “Mini Lincoln Center”, the classic Mahaffey Theater and iconic new Dali Museum join forces to present MIDDAY BY THE BAY, a free lunchtime entertainment series in the green space between these two renowned venues.
  

  Locals are invited to stroll, bike or drive to the Progress Energy Center for the Arts Plaza on their lunch break to celebrate these amazing spaces and hear some of the best entertainment in the area while overlooking beautiful Tampa Bay.

  Attendees can create their own picnic, “brown bag” lunch or purchase an affordable, delicious snack or sandwich from one of our local vendors.

  It’s Midday By the Bay . . . In Paradise Found!

  EVENT LINE-UP:

  Friday, April 22 – O Som Do Jazz
  (“the Sound of Jazz” in Portuguese). Presented by the nonprofit organization EMIT, O Som Do Jazz recaptures the grace, energy and spirit of 1960s Brazilian Bossa Nova & samba-jazz. The sextet features Rio de Janeiro singer Andrea Moraes Manson.  O Som Do Jazz is active with recent performances at Mod Miami, Clearwater Jazz Holiday, Salvador Dali Museum, Historic Asolo Theatre and Palladium Theater. 

  Friday, April 29 – TBD

  Friday, May 6 – The Jim Morey Band
  The Jim Morey Band is a 4 piece band playing original jazz flavored roots and funky music with one hand in Storyville, New Orleans and the other picking confetti out of Tom Wait’s old hat.

  Friday, May 13 – Rebekah Pulley
  Rebekah Pulley has been writing, recording and performing her blend of indie-folk and Americana music for well over a decade now. Her haunting vocals and poetic lyrics have made her a favorite among fans and critics alike. Along the way, she has garnered 5 BEST OF THE BAY awards from Tampa’s Creative Loafing, including Best Singer/Songwriter and Best Acoustic Act.

  Friday, May 20 – TBD
  Friday, May 27 – TBD

  Continue to visit www.MahaffeyTheater.com and www.theDali.org for Midday By the Bay updates and full event lineup.

  Street parking is available or $5 for covered parking in garage between Mahaffey Theater and The Dali Museum.

  Pets, chairs, umbrellas and blankets are allowed.  No alcoholic beverages.

  For more information, visit one of the two websites listed above or, contact Mahaffey Theater at 727-892-5798.

  The Mahaffey Theater is located at 400 1st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701.
  

  
  

  CREDITS: Images and event information courtesy of www.MahaffeyTheater.com and www.theDali.org. April 4, 2011.

• Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: March 23, 2011

  

  Join in the fun of the world’s fastest spring break party!

  The 7th annual Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is the first race on the 2011 IZOD IndyCar Series calendar.

  This exciting event takes place Thursday, March 24 to Sunday, March 27.

  It will be held on a waterfront circuit that includes a combination of adjacent downtown streets circling Pioneer Park, the Mahaffey Theatre, the brand new Salvador Dali Museum and extending onto runways at Albert Whitted Airport that overlook the Bay and picturesque St. Petersburg (FL) Harbor and Marina.

  Six sanctioned races:

  1. IZOD IndyCar Series

  2. Firestone Indy Lights

  3. Star Mazda Championship

  4. USF2000 National Championship

  5. ACURA Sports Car Challenge – SCCA World Challenge

  OWNERS Kim Green and Kevin Savoree of Green Savoree St Petersburg, LLC

  GM Tim Ramsberger is Vice President and General Manager

  LENGTH 100 laps/181 miles

  INDYCAR First of 17 races in the IZOD IndyCar Series which will take place across the United States, Canada, Japan and Brazil.  The only IZOD IndyCar Series race to be held in Florida in 2011. 

  SPECIAL Offers exclusive viewing points from the Acura Yacht Club, RV Club and new FEATURES Trackside Club.

  WEBSITE:  www.gpstpete.com

  ABOUT THE TRACK

  LENGTH – A 1.8 mile temporary course on the streets of St. Petersburg

  TURNS - 14 turns

  WIDTH - Minimum track width: 26 feet; maximum track width: 63 feet.

  STRAIGHT – Front straight: 2,413 feet; back straight: 1,940 feet.

  HISTORY

  2011 2011 will mark the 7th consecutive year St. Petersburg has hosted an INDYCAR race.

  The first IZOD IndyCar Series racing event held in St. Petersburg was the 2005 Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, which was won by local resident Dan Wheldon.

  PAST The winners of the Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg include:

  2005 Dan Wheldon, Andretti Green Racing

  2006 Helio Castroneves, Team Penske

  2007 Helio Castroneves, Team Penske

  2008 Graham Rahal, Newman/Haas/Lanigan Racing

  2009 Ryan Briscoe, Team Penske

  2010 Will Power, Team Penske

  REPEAT – Helio Castroneves is the only repeat winner with back-to-back race victories in WINNER 2006 and 2007.

  FASTEST - The fastest race was set by Helio Castroneves on April 2, 2006 with a time of RACE 1:56:57.5172.

  FASTEST – The fastest pole time registered on the streets of St. Petersburg was in 2010 by POLE Will Power with a time of 1:01.6026.

  FASTEST - The fastest race lap was set by Marco Andretti on April 1, 2007 with a time of LAP 1:02:9653.

  THE RACES

  The IZOD IndyCar Series is the premier open-wheel series in the United States, competing on a challenging combination of superspeedways, short ovals, scenic road courses and temporary street circuits. In 2011, the series will consist of 17 events; 13 in the US, two in Canada, one in Brazil and one in Japan.

  The Firestone Indy Lights is the premier ladder series for drivers and teams striving to compete in the IZOD IndyCar Series and the Indianapolis 500.

  The Star Mazda Championship presented by Goodyear is a premier open-wheel racing and driver development series. The series is a gateway to the IZOD IndyCar series, among many other forms of motorsports.

  The Cooper Tires presents USF2000 National Championship powered by Mazda is the training ground for rising stars as the first step on the ladder to an IndyCar career. The series provides a professional, entry-level open-wheel training ground to drivers, engineers, mechanics and team owners.

  The 2011 ACURA Sports Car Challenge features North America’s top production car-based championship, the SCCA Pro Racing World Challenge Championships. The World Challenge is separated into three classes: GT, GTS and Touring Car.

  Join in the fun of the world’s fastest spring break party . . . In Paradise Found! 

  TICKETS

  Available through www.gpstpete.com or (877) 283-5385.

  Honda has been the title sponsor of the race since its inception in 2005.
  

  CREDITS:  Press release and race images courtesy of www.gpstpete.com.  3/22/2011.

• Florida Botanical Gardens

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: March 2, 2011

  Discover How Florida Grows Everyday!

  At The Florida Botanical Gardens!

  With spring approaching, Pinellas County gardeners are getting ready for a riot of colorful blooms, including Bougainvillea, Hibiscus, Jasmine, Magnolia, and Oleander, to name a few.  There’s even an array of flowering plants with a uniquely Florida “beach” theme at this time of year . . . including Beach Sunflower, Coral Creeper, Coral Honeysuckle, Shell Flower, and Shrimp Plant!

  The Florida Botanical Gardens inspires and educate visitors by showcasing flora, fauna and natural resources in surroundings that promote environmentally friendly techniques.  With over 30 acres of cultivated gardens and 90 acres of natural areas, the Florida Botanical Gardens are a unique local treasure.

  The Gardens beautiful outdoor classroom is the perfect place to learn about plants, animals and responsible gardening.

  Discover Florida’s wildlife, habitats and why our natural areas are so important.

  Home gardeners, as well as flower and plant enthusiasts, will want to visit the Seasonal Garden Display.  These beds are created to show off the best flowering annuals for use in Florida gardens. Plantings are changed three times a year.  This area is a great place to see what’s growing (and what to plant) at this time of year!

  For family fun, riddle me this . . . What is yellow and green and fun all over?

  The Children’s Trail at Florida Botanical Gardens, of course!

  

  Follow Flora on this Trail Just for Kids!

  Flora will show you weird and wonderful things as you explore the Florida Botanical Gardens.

  With the aid of a map (available for download on the Garden’s website or at the Garden’s Welcome Center), start at the Butterfly Garden, hike over to the boardwalk Tree Station, and scan for wildlife with the binoculars near the pond. Then stroll through the Fruit Garden, while the Garden’s mascot, Flora, teaches fun facts about Florida fruits. It is fun for kids of all ages! 

  You may wish to visit the Garden’s neighbor, Heritage Village, where you will find a fascinating collection of historical buildings lovingly restored to their original condition with fascinating interpretation including a host of knowledgeable docents to help you understand the buildings you enjoy.

  Shopping is made easy at the Botanical Bounty Gift Shop. The shelves are “blooming” with gift ideas to accommodate the wishes of friends and family.

  Visit Florida Botanical Gardens website and click on the Seasonal Guide to discover what is blooming in Pinellas County right now!

  Many of the website’s featured plants can be found in Pinellas County’s parks and preserves, as well as in backyard gardens!  In addition to the seasonal guide chart, you can find tips and fact sheets on the care and maintenance of popular garden plants from the Pinellas County Extension.

  Bring the family and spend a day. The Florida Botanical Gardens are open every day of the year and admission is free!

  Discover Paradise in Pinellas County . . . we refer to it as Paradise Found!

  Open daily from 7A to 7P.

  Located at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL 33774.

  Website:  http://www.flbg.org

  For information call:  1+ 727-582-2100

  

  CREDITS: Images and content provided courtesy of The Florida Botanical Gardens.  Florida Botanical Gardens is part of the Pinellas County Cultural, Education & Leisure Department. www.flbg.org.  February, 2011.

• Florida State Fair

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: February 7, 2011

  The Florida State Fair (Feb 10 – 21) has the most food vendors, livestock, free entertainment, rides, and exhibits that you will find anywhere in the area.  

  The annual event is held in Tampa, FL, a short car ride away from Pinellas County, and is a salute to Florida’s best in the agriculture and equestrian industry, including an abundance of shows, music, rides, food and shopping.

  Excitement is in the air all over the fairgrounds with plenty of free entertainment included with admission.

  Plan your day in advance to enjoy all of the sights, sounds, and tastes that the Florida State Fair has to offer. Parking is free during the Fair.

  Information about some of the event’s activities is included below.  Gates open on Thursday.  Bring on the sunshine and blue skies!

  Enjoy the Tilt-A-Whirl and Fried Twinkies . . . In Paradise Found!

  For a complete calendar of events and general information, visit the Florida State Fair online at www.FloridaStateFair.com/.  Or, call 1+ 813-621-7821 or Toll Free at 1-800-345-FAIR (3247). 

  CORN DOGS & COUNTRY
  On Friday, Feb. 11th, Amphitheatre doors open at 5pm. Food on a stick teams up with country music at the Florida State Fair when WQYK presents the concert, “Corndogs n’ Country.”  This pop country concert will star Craig Morgan, Joe Nichols, Colt Ford, Sunny Sweeney and Brett Eldredge; performing together for one night in the Live Nation Entertainment 1-800 Ask Gary Amphitheatre.

  COUNTRY GOLD TOUR
  Country Gold Tour brings classic country artists to the Florida State Fair, Wednesday, February 16, 2011. Show times are 12pm and 4pm. The Country Gold Tour, featuring Leroy Van Dyke, Jim Ed Brown, Helen Cornelius, Moe Bandy, Joe Stampley and Bobby Bare takes the stage at the Sweetbay Entertainment Hall.

  SWEETBAY ENTERTAINMENT HALL
  Celebrate Live Legends Show
  February 10th, show times are 1pm, and 3pm
  February 11th, show times are 3pm, 5pm, and 7pm
  February 12th, show time at 12:00 Noon
  February 13th, show time at 12:00 Noon
  February 14th, show times are 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm
  February 15th, show times are 1pm, 3pm, and 5pm
  February 17th, show times are 1pm, and 3pm
  February 20th, show times are 1pm, 3pm, 5pm
  February 21st, show times are 1pm, 3pm, 5pm

  Elvis Extravaganza Impersonator National Finals
  Saturday, Feb. 12th, show times are 3pm and 6pm
  Sunday, Feb. 13th, show times are 3pm and 6pm

  Veterans Tribute Concert
  Thursday, Feb. 17th, show time at 6pm  

  DATES, TIMES AND ACTS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT ADVANCE NOTICE.*

  RIDES
  The Midway features 106 rides ranging from Ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, and tilt-a-whirls, to bumper cars & boats, fun houses, roller coasters and the Himalaya. Also don’t forget to visit the Giant Slide and Kiddie Midway for more fun!

  The Florida State Fairgrounds is located in Tampa, FL.  In addition to holding the annual Florida State Fair, the Fairgrounds host a wide variety of other events throughout the year. The Fairgrounds cover over 355 acres, with many different types of buildings.

  The Florida State Fair Authority is under the administration of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

  LOCATION/TRANSPORTATION
  Florida State Fairgrounds
  Physical Address: 4800 US Hwy. 301 North, Tampa, FL 33610
  HART Bus Schedule Information can be found on www.Hartline.org or by calling the Info Line at 813-254-4278.

  CREDITS:  http://www.floridastatefair.com/home.  Copyright © 2010 Florida State Fair Authority. Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services.

• Gasparilla Pirate Fest

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: January 24, 2011

   2011 Seminole Hard Rock
  Gasparilla Pirate Fest
  
  Notice to all ye landlubbers:
  Shiver me timbers, it’s that time of year again!
  

  January 29, 2011

   

   

  A short drive (or jaunty ride aboard a pirate ship) from Pinellas County, across the blue waters of Tampa Bay in the City of Tampa, an invasion is being planned . . .

  Costumed pirates will once again “invade” the city aboard the majestic pirate ship, Jose Gasparilla, and then will take to the streets in a spectactular parade and downtown street festival.

  By invitation of Phil R. Carroll, Captain, Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla, all are welcome to join in the fun and step lively to share trinkets ‘n’ treasures–a time-honored tradition since 1904.

  You’ll find photos, maps, an event schedule, and information about tickets ‘n’ treasures, online at Gasparilla Pirate Fest.
  Arrrrgh!  Join in the festivities or it may be the plank for you! . . . In Paradise Found! 

   

  Here’s your personal invitation: 

  Our band of marauding buccaneers will be settin’ our sails to descend on the City of Tampa in the wee mornin’ hours of Saturday the 29th of January, and we’ll be looking fer you!

  Come celebrate the Gasparilla Invasion as we enter Hillsborough Bay in the tall-masted Jose Gasparilla pirate ship (she’s a beauty), with cannons a-boomin’ and flags unfurled.

  Join us for the Gasparilla Invasion Brunch, we we’ll dock at the Tampa Bay Convention Center fer a hearty meal befittin’ a hungry band o’ buccaneers!

  Fill yer pockets with the beads ‘n’ treasures we’ll be throwin’ as we wind our merry way down Bayshore Boulevard in the lively, colorful Parade of the Pirates.

  Dance in the streets with me ‘n’ my mateys to live music at the Pirate Fest Street Festival.

  So, scuttle yer other plans ‘n’ be prepared to come party with us!

  –Philip R. Carroll, Captain, Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla

  
  
   

   CREDITS:  Event is Marketed & Managed by EventFest, Inc.  Images and event information courtesy of www.GasparillaPirateFest.com.  1/23/2011.

• Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: January 10, 2011

  Celebrate the 11th Annual Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival.  January 13-22, 2011!

  Cultural, educational, entertaining, and historical.  Ten days of nationally-known entertainers, speakers and exhibits.

   

  The Festival is embarking on its 11th anniversary and has an assortment of new experiences that are intertwined with the originality and heart of Tampa!

  Celebrating the Heart and Soul of Tampa Bay . . . In Paradise Found!

  

  UPCOMING EVENTS:

  January 13 – Heritage Movie Night
  6:30 pm – 9:00 pm
  Tampa Theatre – 711 Franklin Street, Tampa, FL
  Held at the Legendary Tampa Theatre, this Signature Event features a Heritage movie and panel discussion that highlights historical moments in time and applying them to how our world is shaped today. Centered around the youth, Heritage Movie Night is family-friendly event that everyone can participate in and learn from. This year’s Heritage Movie Night encourages children – and adults – to turn dreams into reality through triumphant artistic expression.

   January 15 – Award-Winning R&B Artist Jeffrey Osborne
  R&B music legend will be live at the 2011 Heritage Street Festival!

   

  

  January 16 – Electric Violinist Ken Ford
  Ken develops his performances into dynamic and electrifying experiences and leaves fans in awe of the funky, unique sounds of the electric violin!  

   

   

  
  

  

  January 20 – USF University Lecture Series
  Civil Rights Activist Martin Luther King III
  Martin Luther King III motivates audiences around the world with his message of hope and responsibility.  

   

   

  
  FESTIVAL ACTIVITIES
  Cultural Enrichment: Living History, Film, Artistic Exhibitions, Influential Individuals, and Poetry.
  Two-Day Street Festival: Nationally Known Artists, Dynamic Performances, and Music.
  Personal Enrichment: Luncheons, Leaders, and Inspirational Speakers.

  MISSION STATEMENT
  The purpose of Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, Inc. is to offer the community of Tampa Bay a unique blend of African and African American art, culture and history, therefore serving as a conduit for promoting and perpetuating the art, culture and history of African Americans and African people for the benefit of residents and tourists to the Tampa Bay area. It exists to support the culturally rich and diverse Tampa Bay community by ensuring events are inclusive of its people.

  HISTORY
  The Festival’s founder, Dr. Samuel Lamar Wright, Sr. and the Tampa Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau, a major contributor, had a vision to raise awareness of the African and African-American heritage within the Tampa Bay Area and surrounding community. The result of their combined efforts was increased exposure to African and African-American culture through positive images and achievements. The Festival surrounds the teachings and philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. who advocated for a diverse community that is culturally sensitive to all who live there.  Thanks to the community, small businesses, educational institutions, and the private and public sector, the Festival is approaching its eleventh season.

  For a calendar of events, sponsor and vendor information, volunteer opportunities, or general information, contact:

  Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, Inc.
  P.O. Box 16622
  Tampa, Florida 33687-6633
  Email: info@tampablackheritage.org

  CREDITS:  Press release information and images, including logo, courtesy of www.tampablackheritage.org.

• 1-11-11 . . . Here Comes the New Dali!

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: January 6, 2011

  2011 is here and there’s a buzz about the upcoming grand opening of the Dali Museum, which will feature the masterworks of Salvador Dali.

  Stephen M. Wheeler, in his Double Take feature, appearing in the January February 2011 issue of AAA Going Places magazine, says it best in his whimsical take on the artist and his mustache, entitled “Must ‘Stache Dali.”

  Wheeler suggests there’s an “undisputable commonality” between the artist and “the infamous curl of his moustache:  They’re [both] surreal.”

  To confirm this observation, share the pride of St. Petersburg and the highly-anticipated opening of the brand-new Dali Museum, scheduled to open on an equally surreal date . . . 1-11-11.  Well . . . the artist was “one” of a kind!

  The Museum, located at 1000 Third Street South in St. Petersburg, FL, is twice the size of the old Dali museum.  The $36 million endeavor includes 66,500 square feet-for exhibits as well as meeting space.

  You may see people–children and children at heart alike–throughout Pinellas County wearing a painted on or paper mustache on January 11, 2011 . . . of course, now you’ll know why.

  It will be an artfully fun day . . . In Paradise Found!   
  

  MORE INFORMATON ABOUT THE DALI MUSEUM:

  BECOME A MEMBER!
  

  Step into the surrealist landscape with a membership to the Dalí Museum, and embark on an intimate journey through the world’s largest collection of Salvador Dalí’s artwork outside of Spain. Members enjoy personalized benefits that enrich the museum experience, and provide valuable support to enhance our essential programming.  Join today to unleash your creativity, and maybe change the way you see the world.  

  ALL active Members will be invited to attend a behind-the-scenes Preview Party at our new museum building before the official Grand Opening in January 2011.

  SAMPLING OF JANUARY 2011 EVENTS AT THE NEW DALI:

  The Florida Orchestra and The Studio@620: A Night of Dalí & Music
  Wednesday, January 5, 7:00 p.m.
  Location:  The Studio@620, 620 First Avenue South, St. Petersburg, FL 33701

  Explore the link between art and music of the 20th century in saluting Salvador Dalí. The program will include several surreal surprises including special performances of “Party Pieces: Sonorous and Exquisite Corpses” by composers John Cage, Henry Cowell, Lou Harrison, and Virgil Thompson; readings from “Little mi-ma Monsterlet” and “Frankenstein”, plus a performance from “Nine Surrealist Studies (After Salvador Dali)” #3 Persistence of Memory. The program is a prelude discussion to “Hello Dalí”, the Florida Orchestra – Dalí Museum Grand Opening Celebration as well as part of the second season of “An Intimate Collaboration II: The World We Live In”, at The Studio@620.  Cost: Suggested donation of $10 payable at the door. Reservations recommended by calling 727-895-6620 as seating is limited.

  Grand Opening Procession, Ribbon Cutting & Festival
  Tuesday, January 11, 9:30 a.m. -3:00 p.m.

  The New Dalí Museum Open to the Public
  Wednesday, January 12, 2011

  The Dalí Museum is open to the public 10:00 a.m-5:30 p.m. Mon, Tues, Wed, Fri, Sat, 10:00 am.-8:00 p.m. Thursday, and 12:00-5:30 Sunday. Tickets available for purchase at the door, starting January 12, 2011. Or, purchase them online by visiting www.thedali.org.

  Family Day at the Dalí
  Saturday, January 15, 10:30 – 4:00

  Visit the Dalí for a day of events for families: At 10:30, learn about the Salvador Dalí and the Museum collection through a guided tour led by the 2011 Junior Docent class of Douglas Jamerson Elementary.  At noon, Catch the Wave with performance artist Marcey Walsch, as she explores the Science behind Sound and Music with what else? Water balloons, slinkies, space phone and whoopee cushions! The afternoon culminates with Dillydally with Dalí with fun games, puzzles and craft activities which educate and encourage family interaction. In addition, activity sheets are available that enable families to explore the museum on their own.

  

   CREDITS:  With thanks to www.thedali.org and Stephen M. Wheeler, “Must ‘Stache Dali,” Double Take, AAA Going Places.  January February 2011.  AAA.com.  Page 56.  To read the full article, visit: www.aaagoingplaces.com.

• Holiday Lights in The Gardens

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: December 1, 2010

  Discover Paradise in Pinellas County!

  Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of Florida Botanical Gardens and the holiday season.

  See how more than 425,000 colorful lights can transform Florida Botanical Gardens into a holiday wonderland. Children admitted free.  

   Suggested $2 donation for adults. All pets must be on leashes.  Sponsored by the Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation.

  Special events include:

  Gift and Plant Sale – December 12 – 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

  Dog Parade – December 26 – 3:00 p.m. 

  For information, call (727) 582-2100

  Vendors wanted weekends or nightly. For information, call (727) 582-2247.

  Interested in volunteering for this community event?  If so, contact Florida Botanical Gardens and ask for Chuck Scaffidi. 
  
  Help the Foundation and the community by sponsorship and/or donations for this exciting event.  Send your tax-deductible gift to Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, FL, 33774.  Attention:  Holiday Lights.

  To watch videos of last year’s event, visit http://www.flbg.org/foundation.htm.

  And, for more Pinellas County holiday events, check out the Events Calendar at http://www.pinellascounty.org/Events/default.htm.

  The Florida Botanical Gardens is a Pinellas County Government Program.

  Have a Happy Holiday Season . . . In Paradise Found!
  CREDITS:  Florida Botanical Gardens. www.flbg.org.  2010.  Pinellas County, FL, official website.  www.PinellasCounty.org.

  

• Happy Thanksgiving!

  Written by Connie Langhorst No Comments
  Last Updated: November 22, 2010

  One thing that is great about living in Paradise Found, is that–collectively–we are a caring community.

  At this time of year, many people throughout Pinellas County share the blessings of the season and this special time of year.

  We have much to be thankful for.  I especially wish to thank those who give of themselves, donating time and money, to help others.  And, I wish to thank the members of our Armed Forces, and their families, for their service and sacrifice (respectively).

  On my blogpost, I wish to call attention to two activities that are taking place in Pinellas County during Thanksgiving.

  Enjoy a Free Thanksgiving Day Meal at Pilgrim Church
  Join in the fun of a non-denominational dining experience to celebrate and give thanks!
  Pilgrim Church will serve a free, traditional Thanksgiving meal from Noon to 4 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day in the Fellowship Hall. No RSVP is required and there are no eligibility requirements.

  For information, call (727) 347-1226.

  When: Thursday, Nov 25th
  Time: Noon – 4:00 p.m.
  Where: Pilgrim Church, 6315 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg.
  What: Arrive any time between Noon and 4 p.m. to enjoy a free, hot, home-style, traditional Thanksgiving meal. The dinner will take place in the church hall, but is not a religious event.  ALL are welcome.

  Join the group for a wonderful Thanksgiving. Enjoy the food, the company, the stories.

  And, next year, if you would like to add your cooking talents to the event, contact the Inskeep family and let them know you would like to help next year.

  Suncoast Haven Serving a Free Thanksgiving Meal  on 11/25 and 11/26
  The Suncoast Haven of Rest Rescue Mission, 5625 Park Blvd., will also be open to anyone living in Pinellas County who would like a free Thanksgiving meal, or who would like to volunteer to help serve the meal. Meals begin at 1 p.m. Thursday and Friday. Volunteers should arrive at noon, diners at 1 p.m.

  For information, call (727) 545-8282.

  Everyone has something to be thankful for.  Have a Safe & Happy Thanksgiving . . . In Paradise Found!

  CREDITS: Excerpts from 2010 St. Petersburg Times.  In Print: Sunday, November 21, 2010.  A special “thank you” to Kate Sullivan and my fellow writer members of www.WordSmitten.com.

  St. Pete Times Article:  http://www.tampabay.com/news/briefs/thanksgiving-meals-at-pilgrim-church-suncoast-haven/1135293.