Visual Arts
Openings
Artists Unlimited, in the Channel District, 223 N. 12th St., Tampa (813-229-5958). Bernice Steinbaum presents an array of work from artists around the world, opening 6-9 p.m., Friday, June 15. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, as well as 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.
Plainsmen Gallery, 2450 Sunset Point Road., Suite A, Clearwater (727-726-5100). "A Summer Reprieve," a collection of bronzes by Frank Divita and scratchboards by wildlife artist Dennis Logsdon, shows June 14-July 3, alongside new wildlife lithographs. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Purple Moon, 833 Douglas Ave., Dunedin (727-738-1540). This bar and regular music venue plays host to the Feel Good Art Series, featuring local artists the third Sunday of every month from noon to dusk. The acrylic and mixed-media dreamscapes of artist Alexis St. John are the focus on June 17, with live acoustic music by Debbie Tucker. Admission is free. Call 727-738-1540.
Ongoing
531 Central Fine Arts, 531 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-822-2787). The gallery is showcasing the oil paintings of Kay Sutherland, along with pieces by Jean Lou Carel, Catherine Maize, Jacques Ousson, Antuan Rodriguez and Dan Godzieba. The show continues through July 11. Summer hours are noon to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Visit www.531central.com.
African Art Gallery, 1711 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813-737-5312). This gallery features the finest in hand-carved African art, as well as other collectibles imported from West Africa. Paintings by Hargraves Nutkwana and Cecile Boswell Brown are also on display, along with the Benya Collection of "never to be found again" ancient artifacts from different African tribes. The West African Fofole Collection of modern, handcarved furniture rounds out the collection. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday and by appointment on Sunday.
Alive! Arts, 1525 Partridge Blvd., Crystal Springs (813-782-2196). Professional and beginning artists are welcome to pursue their talents in this relaxed, motivational and unique studio. Every Sunday from noon to 5 p.m., the studio provides brushes, paints and art boards for the artists, while a production company videotapes each week's activities and interviews the artists.
Ambiance Galleries, 1535 Ninth St. N., St. Petersburg (727-821-8331). The gallery features a group show through June 30. Works on display include oil, water and mixed media by Lee Smith Albion, John Canning, Betsy Vincent, Chica Brunsvold and Joyce Lazzara. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
Centre Gallery, in USF's Phyllis P. Marshall Center, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa (813-974-5464). The Potato Years, an exhibition of paintings by Bradikus (Brad Kokay), continues through July 21. The artist's fascination with comic books and animation comes through in this show of playful, organic and thought-provoking works. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Collection Privee of Old Hyde Park Village, 1627 Snow Circle W., Tampa (813-258-6199). The gallery is proud to announce the only North Florida showing of Frederick E. Hart's monumental work, "Daughters of Odessa." Appearing through June, Hart's sculpture (subtitled "Martyrs of Modernism") is ultimately a tribute to life. The allegorical work was created in remembrance of the victims of all acts of repression in the 20th century. Hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Crystal Mirage Gallery, at The Pier, 800 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg (727-895-1166). Enchanting Glass, featuring "paperweights that have a story to tell," continues through June 30. The gallery also features The Collection of Avenair, which includes glass beads and semiprecious stones embeaded in wearable art, along with a large collection of art glass perfume bottles and paperweights on a regular basis.
Decor Direct Gallery, 2542 17th St., Sarasota (941-365-5757). The gallery features hand-painted porcelain, decorative furniture, pottery and carvings, as well as a multimedia exhibit of paintings by Bobbie Benz, Caroline Harnish, Emily Mallot, Donna Marks and others. Sculpture by Leonard Cremer and photography by Isabel DeLuccia, Chris Marks and Adrienne Scott round out the collection. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day.
Dunedin Fine Art Center, 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin (727-298-3322). Mentor to Mentor: A Legacy in Watercolor, Mentor to Mentor II and Mary Lowe: Intimate Impressions each continue through June 29. These combined shows feature works by 20 watercolor artists, including Miles G. Batt, Rowena M. Smith, Juliane Ketcher, Marie Cummings, Edgar Whitney and Nita Engle. The Florida Experience: The Interactive Exhibition for Children and Adults continues through Sept. 14. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday; 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday; and 1 to 4 p.m. Sunday. Visit the center at www.DFAC.org.
Gallery Enormous, 540 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-551-9865). This new St. Pete gallery is located in the space previously occupied by Fusion Gallery. The first show, Enormous Talent: A Taste of Things to Come, features works by those artists that will be represented by the gallery throughout its first year. The debut show continues through July 13, and artists include Theo Wucik and Frank Strunk III. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday and by appointment.
Glass Canvas Gallery, 233 Fourth Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg (727-821-6767). The new summer show presents recent acquisitions from Eastern Europe and the United States. The show opens June 1st and runs through Aug. 31. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Graven Image Gallery, 135 State St., Oldsmar (813-818-0722). Figurative bronze castings, cannons, medieval document seals, a 9-foot lighthouse, Florida seabird paintings, a turn of the century Vampire Killing Kit, moldmaking and lost wax bronze castings are all featured in this dark, Gothic gallery. Don't forget about the Bay's only professional bronze art foundry. Hours are by appointment or by chance.
HCC-Ybor Gallery, in the Performing Arts Building, Palm Avenue at 15th Street, Tampa (813-253-7674). Recent works by HCC's art department faculty members are on display through Aug. 5. The wide range of media includes items by Chad Bryan, Suzanne Camp Crosby, Susan Gott, Stephen Holm and Carolyn Kossar. The exhibition continues through Aug. 5. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Image Brewery, 112 N. Mulrennan Road, Valrico (813-685-7600). Barriers, a solo exhibition by A.A. Rucci, continues through June 23. After more than a year, Image Brewery ("the safest place for unsafe art") is finally exhibiting once again, celebrating its reopening with an installation of Rucci's sculptural artifacts, illustrative text, reconstructive drawings and color photos documenting the recent excavation of a concrete road barrier in Tampa. Hours are noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and by appointment.
Mad Fish Gallery, 6116 Central Ave., Tampa (813-234-9300). This contemporary gallery features "Keywest" pottery, functional pewter by Tim Woodsman, hot glass by Paul Maiville, watercolors by Ray Koehler, John Piening mixed media and more. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Mahaffey Theater Gallery, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg (727-822-7872). Mahaffey is open by appointment during the day, as well as during all theater performances. Call The Arts Center, the show's sponsor and organizer, at the above number for more details.
Michael Murphy Gallery, 15353 Amberly Drive, Tampa (813-866-1414). Specializing in archival framing, the gallery also represents the works of regional artists Irene Salley, Peter Stilton, John Briggs and Helmut Preiss.
Monthly Saturday Stroll, in the Gulfport Art Village, takes place from 6 to 10 p.m. Saturday, June 16. Gulfport galleries are open late for visitors to pop in and inspect items like pottery, jewelry, sculptures, glass, collectibles and more. This month's musical entertainment comes courtesy of acoustic folk trio Liaison. The village is just south of 28th Avenue on Beach Boulevard (55th Street) in downtown Gulfport. Call 727-321-0830.
Romeo Art and Design, 1515 7th Ave., Tampa (813-247-1010). Third generation Ybor City artisan Walter Romeo has returned, and with fellow artist Dennis Johnson, presents a new art space featuring work by local artists Guillermo Portieles, Alex Espalter-Torres, Tomas Marais; stylish furniture and coffee. The gallery also has plans for live music and a grand opening. Hours are noon-6 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Scalzo Gallery, 2617 Jewel Road, Belleair Bluffs (727-518-9232). Margaret Steward shows off mixed-media wood sculpture and monotypes through June 30. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
St. Pete Beach Art Institute, 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727-367-3818). Makin' Art, featuring the works of Nancy Wallace Gable, continues through July 6. The artist's works run the gamut from collages to still lifes to abstracts. Viewing hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Visit www.suntanartcenter.com.
Studio Encanto, 209 First St. N., St. Petersburg (727-821-2959). A two-man show featuring the works of Dragoslav Milic and Andrej Kroslak continues through July 12. Milic's bold works range from florals to landscapes to portraits, while Kroslak shows off his "Lady Bug" floral series. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Thursday; noon to 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Studio Seven Lamps & Antiques, 3062 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport (727-321-0830). Studio Seven features a collection of vintage time pieces from the '20s to '60s, restored by Frank Baptie. Gallery hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday.
Syd Entel Galleries, 247 Main St., Safety Harbor (727-725-1808). Cows in the City – Moo-velous, featuring the works of James Rizzi, continues through July 5. Have you seen or read about the Cows on Parade in Zurich and Chicago? Well, same idea. In fact, Rizzi's five three-dimensional silkscreen prints are inspired by his designs of the large, fiberglass cows. The images are whimsical, bright, colorful and a complete treat to look at. Hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturday.
Synthesis Fine Arts, at the First Union Building, 100 S. Ashley Drive, downtown Tampa (813-273-0049). Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. For details on the show, call the gallery's second location, at 1-877-SYNTHESIS.
T. W. Curtis Studio/Galleries, 331 16th St. N., St. Petersburg (727-898-9898). The gallery features the works of T. W. Curtis, as well as special exhibits by guest artists. The gallery is open by appointment only, and you can check it out online at www.twcurtis.com.
Tampa Gallery Association Third Thursday Event, otherwise known as an evening of extended hours, takes place on June 21. Members of the association support the art scene by offering extended hours (5 to 8 p.m.) on the third Thursday of each month. Galleries incude the African Art Gallery and Museum, Artsiphartsi, Brad Cooper Gallery, Gold Dragon Gallery, Old Hyde Park Arts Center, Gold Dragon Gallery, Nuance Galleries, Tampa Museum of Art and Studio Gallery on Azeele. Call 813-875-0511 for a complete list of participating venues.
Museums and Attractions
Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater (727-441-1790). This nonprofit organization is dedicated to education, research and the rescue, rehabilitation and release of marine animals. Drop by to visit the dolphins, sea turtles and river otters, and to touch a stingray or two. Admission costs $7.75 for adults and $5.25 for kids. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Florida International Museum, 100 Second St. N., St. Petersburg (727-822-3693). The following shows continue indefinitely: The Cuban Missile Crisis ($6.95 for adults); The Kennedy Collection ($9.95); Countdown to Destiny, an exhibition of photos of Martin Luther King Jr. ($3.95); and Habana Esperando: Photographs by Margaux Ravis (free). Summer hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. All-inclusive day passes cost $11.95, and annual passes go for $15.95.
Great Explorations, 800 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg (727-821-8992). The whole family can learn art and science concepts at this interactive museum. Exhibits include Music!Music!Music! and SSSnakes, SSSpiders and SSScorpions, as well as the new VETerinary Office and ZOOMzone. Admission is $4 for everyone ages 3 and up. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday.
Henry B. Plant Museum, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa (813-254-1891). Simple Pleasures: America's Love of Pond Yachts continues through Dec. 23. The hobby of pond yachting reached its height of American popularity in the 1930s. This show features vintage pond yachts and their rigging, historical memorabilia and photographs. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 4 p.m. Sunday. Admission costs $5.
Kid City, 7550 N. Boulevard, Tampa (813-935-8441). This tot-size city features better streets than the big people drive on, peddle cars and air conditioning in the museum's 14 child-size buildings, which include a fire station, grocery store, bank and city hall. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday; 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday; and noon to 5:30 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $4; members and children 2 and younger get in free.
Kid's Firehouse Museum, 9510 Kids Firehouse Ave., Largo (727-585-1300). The museum has 11 antique firetrucks and memorabilia on display as well as a playground facility. Kids can learn fire safety tips, watch a safety video and get some free memorabilia. Admission is free, donations are encouraged. Hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fridays.
Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa (813-935-8552). Summer Safari Nights, the zoo's annual summer series, returns Friday, June 15, 6-8:30 p.m., featuring the zoo's main exhibits as well as live swing and reggae bands. Admission is free for Annual Zoo pass holders. General admission is $7 for adults, $5 for children age 3-11 and free for children under three. Call 813-935-8552.
Pier Aquarium, 800 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg (727-895-7437). The Aquarium, a nonprofit marine education resource center, is home to fabulous exhibits that include California sharks, invertebrates and coral reefs. Tours are offered from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Friday. Admission is $1. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. Monday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Teachers, call about special field trip rates and tours.
St. Petersburg Junior College Planetarium, Natural Science Building, 69th Street North at Fifth Avenue, St. Pete (727-341-4320). The SPJC planetarium offers the current star show, Giants of the Solar System, at 7 and 8:15 p.m. every Friday. Telescope viewing of the heavens follows each show (weather permitting). Star shows are free and parking is ample.
Sunken Gardens, 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg (727-551-3100). The gardens house 6 acres of tropical mini-rainforest, fish ponds and more. Every Sunday, the gardens also offer a free concert on the Wedding Lawn. Admission costs $4 for adults, $3 for ages 55 and up, and $1 for ages 3 to 12. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday to Sunday.
Tampa Bay History Center, in the Tampa Convention Center Annex, 225 S. Franklin St., Tampa (813-228-0097). The center highlights Tampa Bay's rich heritage and diverse culture by highlighting the area's milestones. Exhibits feature artifacts and photographs from the early Timucuan Indians and European explorers through the Civil War and both World Wars. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.
Tampa Gallery of Photographic Arts, in Old Hyde Park Village, 746 S. Village Circle, Tampa (813-251-1800). Tampa's latest museum, the first devoted solely to the art of photography, features Masters of Black & White through July 1. This stunning display of visuals includes works by internationally known artists Willy Ronis, Andreas Feininger, Julius Shulman, Clyde Butcher and, of course, Ansel Adams. Admission's free, and hours are 5 to 9 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. Visit www.tgpa.org.
Veterans Memorial Museum and Park, 3602 U.S. 301 N., at the Tampa Bypass Canal, Tampa (813-744-5502). Permanent exhibits include Florida Soldiers Walk Through Time: 1590s-1990s, featuring Florida soldiers and American history from the 1590s through Desert Storm, and a Spanish-American War exhibit. Hours are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission is free, but donations are appreciated.
Theater/Performance(See Classifieds for auditions.)
Alice in Wonderland, presented by TheatreUSF, begins Thursday, June 14, and continues through June 23, in Theatre II. Follow the white rabbit through this untraditional and experimental version of the classic Lewis Carroll tale. Done in poor theater style, the production is stripped of everything except the essentials: actors, audience and space. If you haven't' guessed, this requires plenty of imagination. Show times are 8 p.m. June 14-16 and 20-23, as well as 3 p.m. Sunday, June 17. Tickets cost $8 for adults, $4 for seniors and students. The theater's on campus, at 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Call 813-974-2323.
Ladies of the Camellias, presented by the St. Petersburg Little Theatre, continues through June 17. This backstage farce, written by Lillian Garrett-Groag, pits two dueling divas against one another when they are scheduled to perform Camille at the same theater. Oh yeah, and a mad Russian is planning on blowing up the theater. Show times are at 8 p.m. Thursday-Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets cost $13. SPLT's at 4025 31st St. S., St. Petersburg. Call 727-866-1973.
Let's Play Two, by Anthony Clarvoe, continues through June 16, at Silver Meteor Gallery. Skip Volkle directs this romantic comedy, which finds two complete opposites (Phil and Grace) united through their love of baseball. Show times are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and tickets cost $10. Silver Meteor's at 2213 E. Sixth Ave., Ybor City. Call 813-765-1486.
Rumors, presented by Masque Theatre, continues through June 16, at the Lightfoot Center. Four couples gather to celebrate the 10th anniversary of a married couple in this hilarious Neil Simon play. Everything's great until the couples arrive to find the husband bleeding, while the wife and maid are nowhere in sight. Show times are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, 2 p.m. Sunday. Tickets cost $14, and the center's at 10901 N. 56th St., Tampa. Call 813-980-3321.
Write Me a Murder, presented by the Carrollwood Players, continues through June 23. Frederick Knott's suspense thriller, a mixture of romance, greed and deceit, keeps the audience guessing as a young writer plots the perfect murder. Show times are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets cost $12, and the Carrollwood Playhouse is at 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. Call 813-265-4000.
Comedy
Coconuts Comedy Club, at Howard Johnson, 6100 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727-360-JOKE). Tanya Lee Davis' 3-foot-6 frame and her racy, tenacious humor bring comedy to new lows Thursday-Saturday, June 14-16. Comedic hypnotist Ken Whitner, who gets his laughs first by making the audience feel very, very sleepy, does his thing Sunday, June 17. Open mic starts at 9:30 p.m. each Wednesday. All show times are at 9:30 p.m. Cover charge varies (two-drink minimum). Reservations are suggested.
Coconuts Comedy Club, at the Cinema Cafe, 24095 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater (727-797-JOKE). The incorrigible Charming Hooligans improv troupe performs every Friday at midnight. Comedian juggler Dale Jones performs 9:30 p.m. Thursday through Saturday, June 14-16. Admission costs $5. Show times are at 9:30 p.m. Cover varies (two-drink minimum). Reservations suggested.
Comedy Night at Planet 9 Ball, 11236 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa (813-818-7665). Steve Holmes and Ben Sanez host an open comedy night at 9 p.m. every Thursday. Tampa's best up-and-coming comedians are in attendance, novices are welcome and the first 60 people in the door get a complimentary brew. Admission is free.
Comedy Night, at Legends Steakhouse, 309 Gulfview Blvd. S., Clearwater Beach (727-515-8059). G. David Howard offers live and uncensored performances every weekend at Legends. The local comedy club hopper is at the steak joint at 10:30 p.m. every Friday through Sunday. Admission is $6 with dinner, $12 without.
Drew Street Station Comedy Night, 1717 Drew St., Clearwater (727-441-3350). From 9 to 11 p.m. every Thursday, the Station lets up-and-coming comedians cut their comedy teeth on the club clientele. Each week, six comedians contribute to the all-you-can-stand smorgasbord of laughs. The evening, like every other at Drew Street, imposes no cover charge or drink minimum.
Improv Comedy Theater, at Centro Ybor, 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Ybor City (813-864-4000). Christopher "Kid" Reid, one-time member of happy-go-lucky rap group Kid 'N Play, acts as host through Sunday, June 17. Reid's unique, fresh act paves the way for headliner Billy D. Washington. The ex-cop does his native Houston proud with his quick wit and sensational piano parodies. Admission for the Reid/Washington shows range from $8 to $14. Phat Tuesdays offers a different comedian every week at 8 p.m. ($11.50). The Charming Hooligans perform at 10 p.m. each Thursday. Tickets cost $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Show times are 8 p.m. Thursday and Sunday; 8 and 10:30 p.m. Friday; and 7, 9:30 and 11:30 p.m. Saturday. All prices are advance purchase, and cost $2 more at the door. (Get a ticket recently? Call about the Improv's Driving School. No kidding.)
Side Splitters, 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa (813-960-1197). Tom Rhodes, who's done stints on Comic Strip Live, Politically Incorrect and other comedic showcases, jumps on stage Tuesday, June 19, and performs through June 24. Regular admission ranges from $5 to $12 (depending on the night). Show times are 8:30 p.m. weekdays, 8 and 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Snaps Comedy Club, (formerly Tropix) 810 E. Skagway Ave., Tampa (813-935-7576). A mix of comedians from BET and Def Comedy Jam troupe through Snaps each week, having worked their way up from the Miami comedy joints. Show times are at 8 p.m. Thursday, as well as 8 and 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Admission costs $10 (two item minimum).
Wacky Weaver's, located inside the Brandon Brew House, 779 W. Lumsden Road, Brandon. (813-661-5527). Comedic bad boy (he used to tour with Sam Kinison, if that tells you anything) Mark Gauthier coughs up an evening of true grit and pure wit on Friday and Saturday, June 15 and 16. Admission is $10, and reservations are recommended.
Poetry & Prose
Barnes & Noble-Brandon, 122 Brandon Town Center Drive (813-661-9883). Author Jack Chapman gives an informative presentation on his book, Negotiating Your Salary: How to Make $1,000 a Minute, at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 14th. Hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. everyday.
Barnes & Noble-Carrollwood, 11802 N. Dale Mabry (813-962-6446). Professor and author Neil J. Troost signs and discusses his latest book, Teaching Goodness: The Answer to Columbine, at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 14. Carlton Buller, author of Stolen Innocence, discusses his book, a true account of his torturous childhood in Belize, at 7 p.m. Friday, June 15. Jack Kelly signs his books, whatever they may be, at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 16. Hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
Harmony Books & Gifts, 2517 W. Henry Ave., Tampa (813-872-0295). Aside from a spiritual cafe, psychic readers, aura video cameras and compatibility charts, this unique book/gift shop offers a variety of workshops and classes. A Beginning Spiritual Development class takes place at 7 p.m. every Tuesday, while Advance Spiritual Development begins at 7 p.m. each Thursday. Each class costs $10. Harmony also offers a Spiritual Mingle, from 7 to 9 p.m., on the third Friday of each month.
Inkwood Books, 216 Armenia Ave. S., Tampa (813-253-2638). Patricia Baird-Windle, co-author of Targets of Hatred: Anti-Abortion Terrorism, discusses and signs this 20-year chronicle of acts of sabotage, bombing and murder at 7 p.m. Thursday, June 14. Attorney and USF alumnus Joe Forbes reads and signs his Florida novel, Greed, Gold and Turtle Grass at 2 p.m. Saturday, June 16. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, extended to 9 p.m. on Thursday and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Peace Bookstores Inc., 14851 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa (813-265-9433). Ongoing discussion groups at this metaphysical bookstore include: A Course In Miracles group at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, as well as 7 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday, each week. A Course In Miracles In Spanish at 5:30 p.m. each Wednesday. The Celestine Prophecy group meets at 7 p.m. Friday, and Joseph Campbell's Transformations Of Myth Through The Ages is discussed at 7:30 p.m. every Tuesday. The Joseph Campbell discussion costs $5 per week; all others are free. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and 1 to 5 p.m. Sunday (most groups meet after store hours).
Libraries
78th Street, 7625 Palm River Road, Tampa (813-612-9123). Join the rest of the world and learn to use Internet browsers and search engines during Surfing the Internet, from 5:30 to 6:30 p.m. Monday, June 18.
Bruton Memorial, 302 McLendon St., Plant City (813-757-9215). Linda Young shares browsing tips, hips you to web page terminology, gives you the 411 on search engines, how to save your favorite sites and more, during Introduction to the Internet, at 7 p.m. Monday, June 18.
John F. Germany, 900 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa (813-273-3652). Library tours, which include the computer lab, Men's Cancer Resource Center and a glimpse of the Burgert Brother's photo archives, take place at 2 p.m. every Saturday though June. Volunteers from the Florida Genealogical Society show beginners how to seek out their roots during Ask a Genealogist, from 9 a.m. to noon Saturday, June 16. Call for hours.
Kid's Summer Programs, at darn near every library in the land, begin in June and continue through August. Without a doubt, kids rule the stacks throughout summer. Beginning in June, young minds stay active thanks in part to reading programs, computer camps, game days and all sorts of other fun stuff designed to help kids retain what they learned the previous year. Call your local library for a summer schedule, or call John F. Germany Public Library (main branch) at 813-273-3652.
Peninsula, 3909 Neptune St., Tampa (813-273-3680). Toddler Time begins at 10 a.m. and Story Time begins at 11 a.m. (ages 3 to 5) every Tuesday. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Powerful Online Resources, for the technically challenged, takes place at many Tampa-area libraries each month. Ask your local branch about appointments to receive one-on-one training on the library's extensive electronic resources, as well as basic e-mail instruction. Call Tampa's main library, John F. Germany, for your nearest branch at 813-273-3652.
Ruskin, One Dickman Drive S.E., Ruskin (813-671-7638). Increase your electronic resources skills at 10:30 a.m. every Thursday, and join a knitting group at 9 a.m. every Friday, both throughout June. The book discussion group talks about Rachel Naomi Remen's Kitchen Table Wisdom, at 2 p.m. Wednesday, June 20. Call for hours.
Science Library at MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa (813-987-6378). Learn to understand and navigate Windows during an Introduction to Computers, at 9:30 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday, June 18. Call for hours.
Seminole Heights, 4711 Central Ave., Tampa (813-273-3669). Get one-on-one instruction in the library's online resources, including the library catalog, Information Gateway and Suncoast Free-Net, at 7 p.m. each Tuesday in June.
Tarpon Springs, 138 E. Lemon St., Tarpon Springs (727-943-4922). The library's Summer Reading Program introduces and discusses a bevy of animals every Tuesday and Thursday. On Tuesday nights (7 p.m.) in addition to readings and other fun stuff, kids can check out a variety of birds, iguanas and snakes. On Thursday mornings (11 a.m.) plays and magic shows commingle with various animals, reptiles and the occasional huge cat from WildLife on Easy Street. All events are free, but reservations are a good idea. Call the library for more details.
Temple Terrace, 202 Bullard Parkway, Tampa (813-989-7160). Historian and author Dr. Robert Gold discusses Characters and Crooks in Florida History, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, June 20. This program takes a look at some of the more fascinating Florida natives from the last five centuries. Call for hours.
Open Mic
Female Singer/Songwriter Night, at James Joyce Pub, 1704 1/2 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City (813-247-1896). This chicks-only event, hosted by Rebekah Pulley, takes place at 9 p.m. every Tuesday. All talented females are welcome to come out and network, perform or just make new acquaintances at this free event.
Gatorz Southern Rock Cafe, 509 E. Brandon Blvd., Brandon (813-662-1557). Mike Childs hosts a Wednesday open jam at Gators, which begins at 10 p.m. Dillon G. helps Childs host the event, which is geared toward musicians but open to poets as well.
Holiday House Cafe, 2634 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa (813-972-534). Betsy Bolger-Paulet, who thinks there's a lot of talent going unnoticed in the Bay area, hosts Third Thursday Spoken Word, taking place this month on June 21. Sign-up starts at 9 p.m., so if you've got something to say, be there.
Joffrey's Coffee Shop, 5165 34th St. S., St. Petersburg (727-946-7622). Doris Yates hosts a poetry/spoken word open mic at 3 p.m. every Sunday. Sign in by 2:30 p.m. if you want to read. Also, Stazji (yeah, we can't pronounce it either) hosts a poetry slam the first Sunday of each month, with prizes for the winners. For info on the slam call 727-449-0597 or slide and e-mail to stazja@aol.com.
Market on 7th, 1816 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City (813-248-2356). If you miss Vince Longo's Wednesday Open Mic at Yeoman's Road, schlep on down to the market where Longo and John Meats host yet another, this one from 8 p.m. to midnight each Thursday. The event is mostly musical, but any appreciable talent is welcome.
Rockwell's Corner Pub, 10801 Starkey Road, Suite One, Largo (727-398-1055). The Blue Team hosts an 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. open mic every Thursday. Musicians are welcome to come on down and jam with the band during this highly improvisational evening of blues tunes.
Subterranean Digs, an open poetry event, takes place every other Tuesday at Atomic Age Cafe. This event begins with sign-up at 9 p.m., followed by the open mic at 9:30 p.m. The next gathering takes place on June 19. Admission's free, but donations (money, clothes, non-perishable, etc.) are always collected for Metropolitan Ministries. The cafe's at 1518 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. Call 813-247-6547, or visit http://sybil.org/dig.
Tavern at Bayboro, on the USF St. Pete campus, 121 Seventh Ave. S., St. Petersburg (727-821-1418). Hosted by Shana, this open mic takes place from 8 to 11:30 p.m. every Wednesday. Cool feature performers show up every week, musicians, poets and performance artists are welcome and visual artists are encouraged to bring out their works as well. Arrive early to reserve your spot.
Tycoon's, 526 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-826-6716). Keyboardist Kevin Wilder hosts an open jazz jam from 6 p.m. to midnight every Sunday. Players from around the Bay area join Wilder for this weekly improv session. Admission's free.
Yeoman's Road Pub, 236 E. Davis Blvd., Tampa (813-251-BRIT). The open mic line-up at Yeoman's includes a blues jam every Tuesday with Mike Tozier, Weekly Planet's 2000 Best Acoustic Act winner. Vince Longo also hosts an open jam every Wednesday, featuring an eclectic mix of performers from the Bay's music scene. And, for good measure, an open jazz jam takes place every Thursday. All events are free and start at 9 p.m. (or thereabouts).
Sports & Nature
Brooker Creek Preserve Grab the bug spray and a few good friends before heading out to Brooker Creek for a free guided tour of the grounds. Tours are given from 9 to 11 a.m. every Saturday and reservations are a must. Brooker Creek is located in Tarpon Springs. Call 813-943-4003 for more information and directions.
Inline Skating with the Tampa Bay Road Rollers Meet the group at 12th Street Park, on the corner of Cumberland Avenue and 12th Street. The adventure starts at 8 p.m. every Saturday at downtown Tampa's Inline Hockey Arena for an invigorating roll around downtown, Hyde Park, Bayshore Boulevard and Ybor City. If you can't skate 9 to 12 miles in an evening, you might want to wait until you can. There's no cost to join and the Rollers sponsor other events like the Full Moon Skate, Tuesdays on Bayshore and Jackson's Famous Thursday Night Skate. For more information call 813-815-7120, check out the Web site at www.SkateTampa.com, or e-mail SkateTampa@aol.com.
It's Our Nature Outings, environmentally and historically informative events, gets you back to nature with hikes, birdwatching, kayak adventures, full moon walks and more on a regular basis. Some events are weekly; some are scheduled; and a full list of activities can be had by calling 727-441-2599 or by checking out www.itsournature.com.
Osprey Bay Kayaks, 17910 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater (727-524-9670). Aside from a variety of classes, Osprey also offers regular outings, including Full Moon Paddles, Weekday Get Aways (Clearwater Bay, Caladesi Island, etc.) and fishing trips. For a full schedule of events, costs and other information, call the above number or visit www.ospreybay.com/trips.htm.
Skateboarding Contest, an all-ages event, begins with practice and registration at 9 a.m. Saturday, June 16, at the Skatepark of Tampa. Starting with the 12-and -under group, and continuing through 16-and-up and sponsored skaters, this skating bask offer rewards through fifth place, free barbecue and the general rebellious vibe that normally permeates the park. Entry costs $15 in advance and $20 at the event. The park's at 4215 E. Columbus Drive, Tampa. Call 813-621-6793.
SouthShore Father's Day Fishing Tournament, beginning at the Bahia Beach Marina, begins at 6 a.m. Saturday and Sunday, June 16 and 17. Bring your boat, your best mates and your grandpa's fishing secrets and vie for the grand prize of about $3,500. This catch-and-release event (bring your Polaroid) is looking for redfish on Saturday and snook on Sunday, and costs $120 for one day, $200 for two. The marina's at 3301 Sea Grape Drive, Ruskin. Call 813-645-3808.
Tampa Bay Devil Rays, at Tropicana Field, One Stadium Drive, St. Petersburg (813-825-3250). The Boston Red Sox are in town for a trio of games Tuesday-Thursday, June 19-21. All game times are at 7:15 p.m. Tickets start at $4 and go up to $195.
Tampa Bay Sierra Club Outings The club is always off hiking, canoeing, biking or backpacking somewhere in the Florida wilds. Give 'em a call and join in the positive energy. Call 813-253-3555 in Tampa or 727-584-8889 in Pinellas.
Special Events
Afternoon Tea, at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort, takes place from 2 to 5 p.m. every Tuesday through Thursday, throughout the remainder of year 2001. In honor of the Vinoy's 75th anniversary, you're welcome to attend a casual tea and enjoy proper service and surroundings. You'll love the view of sun-speckled Tampa Bay as you sip your Darjeeling or Earl Grey. Reservations for tea cost $10 per couple. The Vinoy is at 501 Fifth Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg. Call 727-894-1000.
Alpha Springala Breakfast, Alpha's annual breakfast, takes place at 7:30 a.m. on Friday, June 15. Mayor Rick Baker is the featured speaker, and the $25 admission charge benefits Alpha, a citizens group founded in 1979 to provide services to homeless pregnant teens and new mothers with families experiencing crises. The breakfast takes place at the St. Petersburg Yacht Club, 11 Central Avenue. Call 727-822-8190.
Diabetes 500 Mini-Cup Race, the seventh annual event, takes place from 8:45 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, June 16, at the Tampa Bay Center mall. The sights and sounds of stock car racing are in the air as local businesses and corporations sponsor 98-inch-long miniature replicas of NASCAR vehicles. The race features five heats of 10 laps each, with a 20-lap championship race. The event is free to attend, and plenty of commemorative items are available. Proceeds benefit the American Diabetes Association, and the mall's at 3302 W. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tampa. Call 813-885-5007.
Flowering Tree Tribute, in honor of Father's Day and Dunedin Garden Week, takes place at 10 a.m. Friday, June 15, on the Pinellas Trail behind the Dunedin Senior Center. For a $10 donation, you can honor dad or grandpa with their own tree on the Pinellas Trail. Join the Bay Bouquet Garden Club in tossing a few handfuls of earth to ensure the growth of your tree. Donor and recipient names are posted on a kiosk near the site. The center's at 330 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. Call 727-726-5066.
This article appears in Jun 14-20, 2001.