Want to know the differences between a Strombus alatus (“Florida Fighting conch”) and a Melongena corona (“Kings Crown”)? The St. Petersburg Shell Club is a non-profit, scientific, and educational organization devoted to the promotion of marine conservation, shell collecting (conchology), the study of mollusks (malacology), and the study and conservation of allied marine, freshwater, and terrestrial fauna. The club provides an environment for exchange of information among members through monthly meetings, shell shows and other special programs, field trips, and events. Meetings are held on the first Friday of the month from September to May at the Seminole Recreation Center located at 9100 113th Street North at 7 p.m. www.stpeteshellclub.org
People & Politics
Don Zimmer was one of the few Yankee or Red Sox players that Rays fans adored, and that’s because the effervescent, super-cuddly “Zim Bear” spent 10 years on our side as a coach and advisor. Zim — who died in June at the age of 83 — got a touching tribute when Rays broadcaster Todd Kalas announced his death during a game against the Miami Marlins. “I felt like I was getting a gift every time we talked,” Kalas said as he choked back tears. “Really sad news.” Deadspin ran this video clip of his remarks.
“This court concludes that a citizen’s right to marry is a fundamental right that belongs to the individual.” Those were the words of Judge Luis Garcia of the Monroe County Circuit Court, whose July ruling was the first in a slew of similar decisions by “activist judges” that may eventually wind up toppling the state’s anti-gay marriage amendment. Fun fact to rub in the face of John Stemberger Republicans: Garcia was appointed by Republican Governor Jeb Bush.
Runners-up: Water Works Park, more breweries
Runners-up: Vinoy Park (St. Petersburg), Crescent Lake Park (St. Petersburg)
