BEST ADVOCACY GROUP FOR DISABLED CHILDREN
TIE: STAND/FND
My legal specialty is representing disabled kids in public education, but it´s not a path many lawyers choose. This is what makes STAND valuable. STAND (STatewide Advocacy Network on Disabilities) is a citizens group that teaches parents how to advocate for improved education for their children with disabilities. Parents who know their rights aren´t just advocates for their own children. They are able to fight for systemic changes. Another good nonprofit organization I´m associated with is the Family Network on Disabilities of Florida (I´m on the board of both). FND is larger than STAND, and is a parent training and advocacy network of families, professionals and support groups that works throughout the state.
STAND, Inc., P.O. Box 172236, Tampa, FL 33672, 813-258-5700, stand.standadvocates.org; STAND-Pinellas at APG Electric Conference Center, 4825 140 Ave. N., Suite K, Clearwater, 727-784-8493, melmom@tampabay.rr.com; Family Network on Disabilities of Florida, 2735 Whitney Road, Clearwater, 727-523-1130, 800-825-5736.
BEST POLITICAL PARTY
The Green Party
The Green Party is a mix between a social movement and a political party. We are a grass roots organization. The power and authority come from the people up. Another thing that makes us different is that we are values based. If you look on our website, you´ll see our 10 core values. These values are what drew me to the Greens. They stand for things I believe in and that I believe most progressives believe in. One value, for example, is gender equity. This isn´t something we just give lip service to. The co-chair of the Green Party for Pinellas is a woman, Diane Cardin. Another value is equal economic opportunities. We believe in a level playing field, although we´re not just a labor party. John Kerry, on the other hand, is leaving his own party behind in order to appeal to the more centrist, right wing vote. He´s not pulling toward us; he´s pulling against us. The Greens´ effect might be to pull the Democrats further left. But that´s not gonna happen if we act like an auxiliary of the Democratic Party. Until it hurts, until the shoe pinches real bad, they´re not gonna change.
BEST EXOTICA
Treasures of Morocco
My wife and I get a lot of pleasure out of shopping at small, unique independent stores. One of our favorites is Treasures of Morocco, which is a fantastic shop, with colorful hand-painted pottery, Moroccan rugs, decorations and household items. My wife, Diane, loves the leather sandals and exquisitely crafted rugs and wall hangings. And the owners are charming and welcoming.
Treasures of Morocco, 1441 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-894-2422.
BEST EARTHLY PARADISE
Heavenly Things
Heavenly Things is an especially interesting little shop in downtown St. Pete. A peaceful abri in the hubbub of Jannus Landing. It carries esoteric notions, beautiful decorations, wind chimes, books, incense and music. Buyers and browsers are treated equally graciously, and I was proud to see the owner come out of her store to cheer on peace marchers as they passed.
Heavenly Things at Jannus Landing, 216 First Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-822-8938.
BEST REMEMBRANCE OF THINGS PAST (AND PRESENT)
Indian Stuff
A store that takes you close to our country´s cultural and spiritual roots. Beautiful Native American drums, dream catchers, books and other specialty items, and owners capable of introducing this mystical world to those open to learning about the spirituality of mother earth, the wind, water and skies.
Indian Stuff, 1064 Fourth St., St. Petersburg, 727-821-8186.
BEST BIT OF ITALY
Mazzaro´s
A busy crowded Italian market, overflowing with Italian wines, cheeses, delicacies and breads. A rare authentic Italian shopping experience.
Mazzaro´s Italian Market, 2909 22nd Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-321-2400.
BEST PLACE FOR CINEASTS
Beach Theatre
Cinematic experiences that are richer and deeper than the 12 films showing at the cineplexes all over town. Some of my favorite film experiences have been at this beach movie house, Leo Leo and Cinema Paradiso to name just two. This is a jewel and the sort of independent movie theater that is disappearing.
Beach Theatre, 315 Corey Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-360-6697.
BEST HOUSE OF GLASS
Zen Glass
A beautiful little shop near the Grand Central District on Central Avenue. This is art in glass. Affordable and beautiful, elegant and refined. Beautiful glass rings, delicate flowers.
Zen Glass Studio and Gallery, 2321 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-321-3035.
BEST PLACE FOR ROMANTIC LUNCHEONS
Central Thyme
Light delicious soups, fruit dishes and sandwiches. I love to stroll through the adjoining art gallery while I´m waiting.
Central Thyme Gallery & Restaurant, 2101 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-328-2585.
BEST PLACE TO DINE AL FRESCO
Grand Central Café
A neighborhood café/restaurant serving hearty breakfasts and a good lunch menu of traditional café fare. A covered outdoor patio allows outdoor dining sheltered from the sun and elements. Around the corner from my office and a local favorite.
Grand Central Café, 2451 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-327-1650.
BEST RADIO STATION
WMNF-88.5 FM
I´m discouraged by other channels. WMNF has excellent local news and is a good source for alternative news generally. They´re eclectic in their music, and they give local and new singer-songwriters a place to break in.
This article appears in Sep 22-28, 2004.
