Visual Arts: Openings
Feel Good Art Series, at Purple Moon, takes place from noon to dusk Sunday, May 20. Purple Moon features a different artist on the third Sunday of each month, and Joanna Levine commands the May event. Levine's monotype, linoleum and lithograph prints are on display and up for grabs. Ally Smith contributes original and contemporary tunes from 5 to 8 p.m. A portion of the evening's proceeds benefit the Hospice of the Florida Suncoast. Purple Moon's at 833 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. Call 727-738-1540.
Gallery 501, at Blake High School, 1701 N. Boulevard, Tampa (813-272-3422). D.F.A.M. (Directly fed and mass-produced) is featured during a one-day show, from 6 to 8 p.m. Friday, May 18. Dealing with the departure from the traditional aspects of formal art, this show features paintings, photography and video works by Chris Wilson, Lindsay Hinckley, Phillip Unruh and Derek Spies.
Image Brewery, 112 N. Mulrennan Road, Valrico (813-685-7600). Barriers, a solo exhibition by A.A. Rucci, begins with a reception from 3 to 7 p.m. Saturday, May 19, and 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.
MacArthur Galleries, 100 E. Madison St. (corner of Ashley Street), Tampa (813-221-5343). The Spring Collection begins Thursday, May 17, and continues through June 17. This collection includes bright and bold works by a variety of artists. Everything from Tibetan meditation paintings to impressionistic landscapes are included, by the likes of Sigrid Burton, Chica Brunsvold, Caleb Fiske and husband/wife team Gustavo Castillo and Carmen Lagos. Open houses for the show take place during regular hours on Thursday; from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 18; and 1 to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 19. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday, and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Tampa Gallery Association Third Thursday Event, otherwise known as an evening of extended hours, takes place on May 17. 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 include 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.
Ongoing
531 Central Fine Arts, 531 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-822-2787). Next Stop: St. Petersburg; The City in the 21st Century, along with a group show by the gallery's resident artists, are both featured through May. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and noon to 4 p.m. Saturday. Visit www.531central.com.
9 Gallery, 902 N. Rome Ave., Tampa (813-258-1694). This brand-spanking new gallery presents Public Hair's Posters & Propaganda through May 31. Public Hair, performance artist, jazz singer and comedian, fills the gallery with his show posters, which touch upon politics, sex, religion and law. Hours are by appointment only, and gallery owner Doug Attalla invites artists to call for info on showing their works in this sick new space.
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.
Ambiance Galleries, 1535 Ninth St. N., St. Petersburg (727-821-8331). Interior Reflections continues through June 2. Charla and Joel Gaglio fill the gallery with oil, ink, mixed-media and textile works for this show. Hours are 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday.
Arts Center, 719 Central Ave., St. Pete (727-822-7872). The center celebrates Latin heritage with four new shows through June 29: Places in the Heart features paintings of homelands and other significant places by Andrea Carreno, Luis Vega, Gustavo Acosta and Angel Hurtado; El Cinco de Mayo combines the works of sculptors Felipe Packard and Ricardo de la Vega with paintings by Dodie O'Keefe; The Daily to the Divine offers oil and acrylic abstracts by Alekxey Sabido; and Colors of the Sun highlights Dr. Ludner Confident's vivid, allegorical paintings. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday, through Saturday; noon to 4 p.m. Sunday.
Centre Gallery, in USF's Phyllis P. Marshall Center, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa (813-974-5464). (un)Focused, a photography exhibition by Claudia M. Sanchez, continues through May 31. The artist's extreme close-up shots of the human body remind us that physical identity shouldn't be limited to the face alone. Sanchez captures everything from strands of hair to stretch marks to goose bumps. A reception for the show takes place from 7 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 18. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Clayton Galleries, 4105 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa (813-831-3753). Crime Scenes: Recent Paintings continues through May 27. This exhibit features the latest works of George Pappas, which focus on the hidden motives that compel people to commit acts of violence or exhibit other unreasonable behaviors. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, and 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Covivant Gallery, 4906 N. Florida Ave., Tampa (813-232-1267).The group show Menagerie, featuring works by Mandy Greer, Kristen Morgan, John DeFazio, Joe Bova and others continues through June 3. 98 Works, featuring paintings and sketches by Edgar Sanchez Cumbas, continues through June 1. Real Life, offering paintings by Eva York, continues through June 1. And Las Cosas de Niños: 21st Century Learning Centers After School Program highlights works by B.T. Washington Magnet and Ferrell Magnet middle schools through June 1. A closing reception takes place from 8 to 11 p.m. Friday, June 1. Hours are noon to 4 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, and by appointment.
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.
EastWest Gallery & Framery, 529 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-823-9629). The gallery celebrates its first anniversary with Journey to Joy. This show features the giclee prints of artist Stuart Tang, whose works are filled with imagery from mythological tales. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday, Thursday and Friday; 10:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday; and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday.
Florida Craftsmen Gallery, 501 Central Ave., downtown St. Pete (727-821-7391). Ground Cover: Contemporary Quilts continues through June 22. This in-depth exploration of the landscape through textiles (both metaphorical and concrete) features the works of six cutting-edge quilt artist, including Nancy Crow, Michael James and Pauline Burbidge. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Grossman Gallery, 1111 Swann Ave., Tampa (813-258-4441). After a 25-year career in television broadcasting, USF alumnus Marc Grossman switches from the TV biz to the art biz, opening a new gallery in Hyde Park. Promising a fun place to see art (i.e., no intimidation or elitism), Grossman includes the works of impressionist painter Greg Cartmell and abstract oils by Sikrat for his first show. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday.
HCC-Ybor Gallery, in the Performing Arts Building, Palm Avenue at 15th Street, Tampa (813-253-7674). The 27th annual Juried Student Art Exhibition continues through May 23. An extensive range of media is featured at this show, including black-and-white photography, digital imagery, graphic arts, painting and sculpture. All works were created by students in HCC-Ybor's Visual and Performing Arts curriculum. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Hyde Park Fine Arts, 937 S. Howard Ave., Tampa (813-258-8883). Confessions continues through May 26. Steven Verriest, Perri Neri, Jack Barrett and Leslie Elsasser fill the gallery with dark, highly narrative paintings that focus on the human condition. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
Merrick Gallery, 330 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg (727-896-2787). Contemporary Masters II can currently be seen at the gallery, with all works discounted in honor of the gallery's second anniversary. Continuing through August, the show features works by Crash, Hirst, Rosenquist, Rauschenberg and Warhol. Gallery resident artists (Gerhard Birkhoffer, Rocky Bridges, Antonio Caparello, Leslie Neumann and David Williams) also contribute works. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday; noon to 6 p.m. Sunday.
Nature Exposed, a photography exhibition by Ed Lawlor, continues through May 31 at the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center. Lawlor, an award-winning nature, wildlife and landscape photographer, takes the viewer to Florida's most raw and wild environments through his works. Viewing hours are 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., admission's free and the center's at 101 S. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs. Call 727-942-5605.
Nuance Galleries, 720 S. Dale Mabry, Tampa (813-875-0511). Pennsylvania artist Daniel Watts enjoys a show through May 31. The artist pulls all shapes, styles and colors together with is oil paintings on wood. Hours are 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday.
Old Hyde Park Art Center, 705 Swann Ave., Tampa (813-251-3780). An open juried competition, Pastel, Pen, Pencil and Charcoal, continues through June 2. Hours are noon to 3 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday.
Salt Creek Artworks, 1600 Fourth St. S., St. Pete (727-894-2653). New Photographs, featuring works by Vincent Serbin, continues through May 19. Hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday.
Scarfone/Hartley Galleries, corner of North B Street and Brevard Avenue on the University of Tampa campus (813-253-6217). View up-and-coming talents during High School Arts 2001, a juried exhibition featuring works from students in Hillsborough County private and public schools. The show continues through May 24. Hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, 1 to 4 p.m. on Saturday.
Shapiro Studio and Gallery, 538 Central Ave., St. Pete (727-894-2111). Treasured Boxes continues through June 7. Stop by the gallery and take in these unique creations by artists from around the country, including functional, decorative and intricate boxes in wood, clay, glass and metal. Hours are 10:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., Monday through Saturday and by appointment.
Snooty Judy's Gallery for the Open Mind, 514 Skinner Blvd., Dunedin (727-734-9835). Visions, Games & Fantasies continues through July 10. This show features the mixed-media works of Boo Ehrsam, as well as the "Dreamcastings" of Nancy and Steve Eggert. Hours are 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Saturday, and noon to 5 p.m. Sunday. See the gallery at www.openmindart.com.
Something Fishy 913 N. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater (727-461-FISH). Color Me Crazy continues through May 31. This exhibit puts the spotlight on Femo artist Harriet Smith, of New Orleans, the pottery of Lynette Phillips and accessory pieces by Boston's Jasmine Keane. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday.
St. Pete Beach Art Institute, 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach (727-367-3818). Snowbird Marie Bonenfant, shows off her vivid portraits and floral works through May 31, alongside works in a variety of media by SPBAI members. 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 one-man show by Miguel Ordoqui continues through June 6. Influenced by his Spanish heritage and Cuban upbringing, Ordoqui's colorful and sensual paintings offer satirical views of the Spanish masters, imaginative portraits and glimpses of Cuban folklore. 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 Szabries Gallery, 2109 Central Ave., St. Petersburg (727-895-2444). Bodies of Light: A Celebration of the Human Form is held over through June 29. This show offers Fred Szabries' latest paintings on aluminum and acrylic. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday.
Szilage Gallery, 600 Ninth St. S., St. Pete (727-896-5504). One, featuring a new work by JSG Boggs, continues through May 31. This show features a piece by Boggs that will appear at the prestigious Pierwalk, at the Chicago Art Fair. A second outdoor installation, Possible Transportation to East Indiaman Ridge, continues through May 31. New York artist David Greg Harth, a regular on the Tampa Bay art scene, is the sole artist in this show. Harth's works run the gamut of media, from photography and film, to digital art and site-specific installations.
Tampa Gallery of Photographic Arts, in Old Hyde Park Village, 746 S. Village Circle, Tampa (813-251-1800). Tampa's first venue 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. The museum also welcomes photographer (or "picture maker") Bud Lee, who offers a slide show and discussion of his work at 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 23. Lee's images have graced the pages of Esquire, Geo, Mother Jones, New York Times and other publications. The presentation takes place outside the museum, in the village's fountain area. Admission's free, and hours are 2:30 to 9 p.m. Friday; 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Visit www.tgpa.org.
TECO Public Art Gallery, 2623 Jetton Ave., Tampa (813-251-3688). Other Visions, featuring works by Project Return members, continues through May 31. Project Return, a mental health facility in Tampa, improves the quality of life for adults with mental illness through various programs, including art. This show includes works by about 20 members, and offers landscapes, portraits, abstracts and more. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
USF Teaching Gallery, in the Fine Arts Building on the USF Tampa campus, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa (813-974-2301). Behind the Mask: Africa in Tampa continues through May 18. This show addresses and explores the many misconceptions and stereotypes about Africa and its people, the impact of the culture on our country, and the African communities in Tampa today and in the past. Hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Theater/Performance(See Classifieds for auditions.)
Bohemios, presented by the Spanish Lyric Theatre, begins at 7:30 p.m. Saturday, May 19, at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. Based on the same stories that inspired La Boheme, this operetta brings to life the magic of 1840s Paris as seen by a struggling composer and the young soprano who loves him. The show's presented in Spanish, and tickets cost $22.50 and $25. TBPAC's at 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Call 813-229-STAR.
Cinderella, presented by the St. Petersburg Festival Ballet, takes place at 7:30 p.m. Saturday and 3 p.m. Sunday, May 19 and 20, at the Palladium. Sean Musselman choreographed this classic tale, and St. Petersburg's own prima ballerina, Holly Eisengart, plays the title role of the oft dissed Cinderella. Tickets cost $10 for adults, $8 for seniors and $5 for kids. The Palladium's at 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. Call 727-822-3590.
A Couple of Blaguards, presented by American Stage, continues through June 3. Written by Frank McCourt, author of Angela's Ashes, this play has two brothers sharing memories of mischief-making in the old country, their Irish-Catholic upbringing and the wayward way they came to America, all while downing pints in the local pub. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Wednesday and Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 3 p.m. Sunday (with 3 p.m. matinees on Saturday May 19 and 26). Tickets cost $20 and $24, and American Stage's at 211 Third St. S., St. Petersburg. Call 727-823-PLAY.
Darkfall, the last staged reading in American Stage's New Visions series, takes place at 7 p.m. Monday, May 21, at American Stage. Written by David Davalos, this dark comedy features a New York couple bringing in the millennium by inadvertently becoming involved in a divine coma and a cosmic battle for the universe. Intriguing, no? Admission costs $5, and the theater's at 211 Third St. S., St. Petersburg. Call 727-823-PLAY.
An Evening of Verdi & Puccini, presented by Opera Tampa, takes place at 8 p.m. Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday, May 19 and 20, at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. This operatic concert of arias, duets and ensembles includes Rigoletto, La Boheme, Madame Butterfly, Aida and other favorites from the Italian composers. Tickets range from $9.50 to $55.50, and TBPAC's at 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Call 813-229-STAR.
A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum, presented by the Carrollwood Players, continues through May 19. Carlyn Postle directs this musical look at the life of Pseudolus, a Roman slave, who'll do anything (including trick, tease and connive) to gain his freedom. Show times for this comedic romp are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets cost $14, and the Carrollwood Playhouse is at 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. Call 813-265-4000).
Late Nite Catechism, at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, continues through May 27. Sister makes a return engagement to the center and turns the audience into her classroom during this wacky comedy. The nun's abrupt mood swings strike a resonant chord with anyone who's ever survived Catholic school. Show times are 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday, 8 p.m. Friday, 2 and 8 p.m. Saturday, and 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets range from $15.50-$29.50. TBPAC's at 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Call 813-229-STAR.
Rosie & Ira's Comedy Wedding Show, at the Italian Club, takes place at 4 p.m. every Sunday through May 27. This fun, interactive event starts with cocktails, and continues with a huge Italian feast, singing, dancing and lots of laughs as the "Godfather's daughter and the Jewish mamma's boy" tie the knot. Tickets cost $45 ($80 for two), and the club's at 1731 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. Call 813-248-3316.
Snakebit, presented by Gorilla Theatre, begins Thursday, May 17, and continues through June 3. In this comedy by David Marshall Grant, an aspiring actor, his actress-turned-housefrau wife and their gay friend combat the stresses of life, love, career and family. Show times are at 7 p.m. Thursday; 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday; and 3 p.m. Sunday. Tickets cost $17, and the theater's at 4419 N. Hubert Ave., Tampa. Call 813-879-2914.
Through Men's Eyes, part of the Women's Works Series, continues through May 19 at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. Adapted from a collection of letters written by men to their wives, mothers, sisters, daughters and friends, this show (directed by Monica Bishop Steele) features a cast of men sharing their hidden feelings through song, dance and storytelling. Show times are 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday. Tickets cost $13.50, and TBPAC's at 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. Call 813-229-STAR.
Upstairs/Downstairs at the Tampa Bay Hotel, presented by the Henry B. Plant Museum, continues at 2 p.m. every Sunday through May 27, in the museum. Each week, guests meet one of four employees and one guest during 30-minute mini-performances. On Sunday, May 20, meet Maggie, the hotel's laundress in 1920. Performances are free with museum admission, which is $5 for adults and $2 for kids under 12. The museum is at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. Call 813-254-1891.
Comedy
Coconuts Comedy Club, at the Cinema Cafe, 24095 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater (727-797-JOKE). Those lovable Charming Hooligans, a local improv troupe, perform every Friday at midnight. Admission costs $5. Regular 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). Local improv troupe the Charming Hooligans offer a 10:30 p.m. gig each Thursday (except during special engagements). Admission costs $8 in advance, $10 at the door. Gary Valentine, writer for and recurring guest on the King of Queens, as well as the host of The X Show, breaks from his busy schedule to entertain the masses Thursday through Sunday, May 17 to 20. Tickets range from $10 to $14. Marvin Dixon kicks off the club's inaugural Phat Tuesday event at 8 p.m. Tuesday, May 22 ($13); and Mark Sweeney stops by at 8 p.m. Wednesday, May 23 ($8). 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.
Side Splitters, 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa (813-960-1197). Tommy Chong, of Cheech and Chong fame, proves there's still life in the old lungs yet when he appears at the club Friday and Saturday, May 18 and 19. Get stoned out of your mind and go have some laughs. Tickets for this special show cost $20 and $25. Willie Tyler & Lester prove nothing comes between a man and his wood from Tuesday, May 22, through May 27. The ventriloquist offers a special kid's show at 2 p.m. Saturday, May 26 ($6 for kids, $8 for adults). Regular admission ranges from $5-$12 (depending on the night). Show times are 8:30 p.m. weekdays; 8 and 10:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday.
Wacky Weaver's, located inside the Brandon Brew House, 779 W. Lumsden Road, Brandon. (813-661-5527). Brad Reeder laughs with you and at you on Friday and Saturday, May 18 and 19. Show times are 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. on both nights. Admission is $10, and reservations are recommended.
Poetry & Prose
Barnes & Noble-Carrollwood, 11802 N. Dale Mabry (813-962-6446). Molten Mike entertains in the cafe at 8 p.m. Friday, May 18. A variety of live music — from jazz to R&B to urban — can be heard at 8 p.m. Saturday, May 19. Hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily.
Borders-Carrollwood, 12500 N. Dale Mabry (813-265-8455). Future Perfect offers its ambient fare at 8 p.m. Friday, May 18. Jazz Soup entertains at 2 p.m. Sunday, May 20. The Jewish Book Group meets at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, May 22. Hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. on Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.
Borders-Tampa, 909 N. Dale Mabry (813-874-5722). Diana Browning hosts Poetry On The Edge at 8 p.m. Friday, May 18. Web poet Lynette, May's featured poet, shares her dark works. POTE is an adults-only event. The Jewish Book Review meets at 7 p.m. Tuesday, May 22. Hours are 9 a.m. to 11 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on Sunday.
Inkwood Books, 216 Armenia Ave. S., Tampa (813-253-2638). Bruce Hunt signs his guide book, Florida's Finest Inns & Bed and Breakfasts, at 7 p.m. Thursday, May 17. Pushcart Prize winner Ana Menendez reads from and signs her debut short story collection, In Cuba I was a German Shepherd, at 7 p.m. Monday, May 21. 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). Learn how to use Internet browsers and search engines at 5:30 p.m. Monday, May 21. Fritzy Bros. One Man Circus delights the kids with juggling, unicycling and more at 10:30 a.m. Wednesday, May 23. Call for hours.
Austin Davis, 17808 Wayne Road, Odessa (813-264-3825). The Master Gardening Series discusses herbs at 10 a.m. Thursday, May 17. The library celebrates its eighth anniversary with refreshments from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, May 19. Call for hours.
College Hill, 2607 E. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd., Tampa (813-273-3681). Fans of Terry McMillan's works can discuss the author's A Day Late and a Dollar Short at 2:30 p.m. Saturday, May 19. Call for hours.
Jan Kaminis Platt, 3910 S. Manhattan Ave., Tampa (813-272-6000). The library's book discussion group critiques Thomas Mann's Death in Venice, at 1 p.m. Monday, May 21. Call for hours.
Temple Terrace, 202 Bullard Parkway, Tampa (813-989-7160). Sue Walker continues a workshop series on wills, trusts and estates at 1 p.m. Saturday, May 19. The library's book discussion group talks about Louis De Bernieres' Corelli's Mandolin, at 7 p.m. Wednesday, May 23. Call for hours.
Ybor City, 1505 Nebraska Ave., Tampa (813-272-5547). Carrie Hurst helps students and parents search out, apply for and land college scholarships during Understanding Scholarships, at 4 p.m. Thursday, May 17. Helen Neal-Pore discusses Enhancing Personal Relationship at 4 p.m. Tuesday, May 22. Call for hours.
Open Mic
Albi's, 123 Hyde Park Ave., Tampa (813-253-2771). Suzanne Willett hosts a late-night open mic for poets, musicians and comedians at 11 p.m. every other Wednesday. Call ahead to find out if this is one of the lucky weeks.
Beaux Arts Gallery and Folk Coffeehouse, 2635 Central Ave., St. Pete (727-328-0702). Beaux Arts' open mic takes place from 8 to 11:30 p.m. every Saturday. Art films are shown at 8 p.m. Friday, and 2:30 and 8 p.m. Sunday. Hours are noon to 5 p.m. daily, extended from 7 to 11 p.m. Fridays and 7 to 11:30 p.m. Saturdays. A donation of $2 to $5 is suggested at the door, but coffee and tea are free.
Cool Tunes Coffee Bar, formerly Java Lounge, 2551 Drew St., Clearwater (727-799-3788). Open mic takes place from 9 to 11:30 p.m. every Wednesday and Sunday, and an open music jam runs from 9 to 11:30 p.m. each Thursday. Local bands perform every Friday and Saturday (admission costs $1). Open mics are free. Hours 9 a.m. to midnight Monday through Saturday, and 5 p.m. to midnight Sunday.
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 May 17. Sign-up starts at 9 p.m., so if you've got something to say, be there.
Insomnia Coffee House Gallery, 32884 U.S. 19, Palm Harbor (727-789-3771). Musicians, poets, comedians, magicians and anyone else can perform at the 9 p.m. open mic events every Tuesday, hosted by "Big Rick" (sign-up starts at 8 p.m.). Hours are 5 p.m. to 1 a.m. Tuesday through Thursday; 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. Friday and Saturday; and 5 p.m. to midnight Sunday and Monday.
Joffrey's Coffee Shop, 5165 34th St. S., St. Petersburg (727-946-7622). William Martin hosts a poetry/spoken word open mic at 2 p.m. every Sunday. Musicians are also welcome to stop by and jam any night of the week. Joffrey's hours are 6:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 6:30 a.m. to midnight Friday, 8 a.m. to midnight Saturday and 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday.
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 May 22. Admission's free, but donations 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.
This Side of My Soul, presented by The 3rd Muse, takes place from 7 to 11 p.m. Thursday, May 17, at Lloyd's Cajun Cafe (formerly Blues Ship). Local poets and spoken word artists share their works at this event, which concludes with an open-mic session for as-of-yet unknowns. Artists include Kwabena Dinizulu, Adonica Dunn, Terrence O'Hara and James Tokley. Admission costs $6, and Lloyd's is at 1910 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. Call 813-242-4364.
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
A Beginning Inc. Golf Tournament, the 17th annual event, begins with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Friday, May 18, at the Chi Chi Rodriguez Golf Club. Registration costs $80, and all proceeds benefit Alpha's residential housing program for homeless pregnant women and teens. The course is at 3030 McMullen-Booth Road, Clearwater. Call 727-822-8190.
Boyd Hill Nature Park, 1101 Country Club Way S., St. Petersburg (727-893-7326). The park invites volunteers to help with the annual butterfly count, at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 19. Those interested can attend a slide presentation, at 7 p.m. Friday, May 18, to learn effective methods of identifying said butterflies. Staff and volunteers offer tram tours, limited to seven people each, at 1 p.m. daily. Other guides offer night hikes, bird hikes, nature walks and wildflower walks for free.
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.
Fly Fishing Clinic, with fly fishing legend Stu Apte, takes place from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, May 19, at Picnic Island Park. Apte, pioneer of many saltwater fly fishing techniques, writer of many fly fishing articles, familiar face on several fishing programs and videos, and holder of more than 40 world records, shares his five decades worth of knowledge and offers demonstrations and techniques to hardcore anglers. Admission costs $30, which includes a year membership in the Tampa Bay Fly Fishing Club. The park's at 7200 Picnic Island Blvd., Tampa. Call 813-290-0281.
Great Strides Walk, presented by the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation, begins with registration at 8 a.m. Saturday, May 19, at Lowry Park Zoo, South Straub Park and Phillippe Park. Bring your friends, family and coworkers for a lovely 9 a.m. walk around the park of your choice, or just hit 'em up for money to benefit CFF. The zoo's at 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa; Straub Park's on Beach Drive between First and Fifth avenues N.E., St. Petersburg; and Phillippe Park's at 2525 Phillippe Parkway, Safety Harbor. Call 813-258-0266.
Relay for Life, to benefit the American Cancer Society, continues through May 19 at various Bay area locations. Build a team of friends and family, and walk a lap or two (or 12) for cancer. Each event starts with a Survivor Celebration, with survivors walking a victory lap before volunteers take over. At least one member from each team must be on the track at all times during this 18-hour relay. The last round of relays take place at the University of Tampa and Clearwater Long Center, both May 18 and 19. Relays run from 6 p.m. to noon the following day. Call 800-ACS-2345 for location and participation info.
Tampa Bay Devil Rays, at Tropicana Field, One Stadium Drive, St. Petersburg (813-825-3250). The Rays got a tiger by the tail, Detroit Tigers, that is, at 7:15 p.m. Friday, May 18, 4:15 p.m. Saturday, May 19, and 1:15 p.m. Sunday, May 20. The Texas Rangers make themselves at home at 7:15 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday, May 22-24. Tickets start at $4 and go up to $195.
Tampa Tarpon Tournament, to benefit University of Tampa's Marine Science program, begins with check-in and breakfast at 6:30 a.m. Saturday, May 19, at Bayside Marina. Entrance costs $200, and a free, 6:30 p.m. Captain's Party and Tournament Meeting takes place Friday, May 18, also at the marina. An awards ceremony follow immediately after the tourny, and the marina's at 5200 W. Tyson Ave., Tampa. Call 813-253-6232 or visit www.tampatarpontournament.org.
Special Events
CABA Balloon Festival, the fifth annual event, begins Friday, May 18, and continues through May 19, at Lake Park. Check out the big, beautiful balloons while enjoying food from local restaurants, live entertainment, power parachute and tethered balloon rides, and more. Saturday brings breakfast, live concerts, and pony rides and a petting zoo for the kids. Hours are 4:30 to 11 p.m. Friday, and 5 a.m. to noon Saturday. Admission's free, and the park's at 17302 N. Dale Mabry, Lutz. Call 813-884-9287.
Fiesta Queen Coronation, presented by the Latin American Fiesta Association, begins at 8:15 p.m. Saturday, May 19, at the Temple Terrace Golf and Country Club. Enjoy dinner, dancing and a floor show while you wait with bated breath for the coronation of the 74th Fiesta Queen (around 10 p.m.). Proper dress required (black tie or krewe costume), and tickets cost $50. The club's at 200 Inverness Ave., Temple Terrace. Call 813-238-9584 for reservations.
Home is Where the Art Is, a benefit for The Haven of RCS, takes place from 6 to 9 p.m. Friday, May 18, at the Largo Cultural Center. Local artists offer their best paintings, jewelry, glassworks and other pieces for an auction on The Haven's behalf. This second annual event raises funds for The Haven's new home (now under construction), which will offer its clients safe shelter from abuse. Admission costs $25 in advance and $30 at the door (includes food and entertainment). The center's at 105 Central Park Drive, Largo. Call 727-442-4128.
Oh What A Knight, HARC's annual benefit gala, begins at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, May 17, at the Italian Club. The Hillsborough Association for Retarded Citizens raises funds for its group homes and day programs with this black-tie event, which features dinner, dancing and cocktails. For her 15 years of dedicated service to HARC, Patricia Bobanic will be presented with the Excalibur Award. Tickets cost $125, and the club's at 1731 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. Call 813-273-6364.
Pearls of the SEA, the sixth annual benefit for the Suncoast Epilepsy Association, begins at 11 a.m. Sunday, May 20, at the St. Petersburg Hilton. Enjoy lunch, a fashion show and silent auction opportunities at this belated Mother's Day event/benefit, which raises funds for medically and financially needy persons with epilepsy in Pinellas and Pasco counties. Admission costs $40, and the hotel's at 333 First St. S., St. Petersburg. Call 727-546-2856.
St. Petersburg Spring Boat Show, at the Bayfront Center Yacht Basin, begins Friday, May 18, and continues through May 20. New and used boats, marine accessories, electronics, swimwear, fishing clinics and just about everything else boat-related is up for grabs at this annual show. Hours are noon to 7 p.m. Friday; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Admission costs $5 for adults, $1 for children ages 6-12. The Bayfront Center's at 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg. Call 954-764-7642.
Syttende Mai Viking Regatta, the 20th annual event, begins at 10:30 a.m. Saturday, May 19, at Phillippe Park. Step back to Lief Eriksson's day while watching local Sons of Norway lodges race in replica Viking ships. The event includes all things Scandinavian (helmets, jewelry, trolls, books, etc.) and activities for the kids. Admission's free, and the park's at 2525 Phillippe Parkway, Safety Harbor. Call 727-343-2502.
This article appears in May 17-24, 2001.