The List

Festivals/Events

March of Mourning Women in Black, a newly formed Gulf Coast local organization, has scheduled this march to coincide with an international Women in Black peace event taking place in Jerusalem and more than 80 other cities worldwide. The group gathers in Williams Park, located between Fourth and Third streets north and Second and First avenues north. Following statements and introductions, the march proceeds to South Straub Park. Two stops have been selected along the procession route for a few minutes of silence. Fri., Dec. 28, 5:30 p.m. 727-822-1543.

Season's Greetings Garden Tour Horticulturist Bill O'Grady shares his wealth of knowledge about hundreds of beautiful botanical plants growing in Sunken Gardens. The special holiday tour also includes a seasonal gift and refreshments. Sat., Dec. 29, 11:30 a.m. Admission costs $7 for adults, $5 for ages 55 and up, and $3 for ages 3 to 11. Sunken Gardens, 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-551-3100.

Ybor City Fresh Market Inc. The market's up and running every Saturday. Drop by for a free glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice and check out all the fresh foods and other nifty items the market has up for grabs. Local vendors offer everything from fruits and veggies to plants to hand-made crafts. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through May 1. Centennial Park, Eighth Avenue and 18th Street, Ybor City.

Holiday

Busch Gardens' Celebrate Safe This Tampa Bay tradition combines the exhaustive entertainment of Busch Gardens with fireworks displays and a midnight ball drop, all for a good cause. The non-alcohol event is the biggest fundraiser for the Celebrate Safe Foundation. Proceeds benefit the Hillsborough Education Foundation. Mon., Dec. 31, 8 p.m.-1 a.m. General admission costs $25.95 in advance, $29.95 day of. Busch Gardens, 3000 E. Busch Blvd., Tampa. 813-987-5082.

Christmas at Pinewood: Songs of the Season Pinewood, designed by architect Charles Waite, is on the National register of Historic Places, and has been showcased in Home & Garden Television's Christmas Castles. Each of the Mediterranean Revival-style villa's 20 rooms are decorated to portray a favorite holiday song. Fine linens, intricate tile, antique furnishings, sterling silver and crystal adorn the rooms. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 7. Admission costs $11 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-12. Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. 863-676-1408.

Cowboy Christmas Get your giddyap on at the In The Breeze Horseback Riding Ranch, celebrating the holidays with a Cowboy Light Spectacular Hayride. The ranch features horseback riding ($15 plus gratuity), pony rides ($2) and lots of baby animals, including goats, llamas and puppies. Dec. 22, 6 p.m.; Dec. 28, 6 p.m.; Dec. 29, 6 p.m. The hayride lasts a half hour and costs $4 per person or $15 for five tickets. In The Breeze Horseback Riding Ranch, 7514 Gardner Road, Tampa. 813-264-1919.

Cuban Club New Year's Party This fancy-dress-optional affair includes live entertainment, dancing, hors d'oeuvres in the Lobby, a gourmet dinner buffet in the Grand Ballroom and a midnight champagne toast. Mon., Dec. 31, 7 p.m.-2 a.m. Reservations required. Tickets cost $70, $120 per couple. Cuban Club, 2010 Republica De Cuba, Ybor City. 813-248-2954.

Four Headliners for New Year's Comedians Danny Bevins, Ken Evans, Mike McCarthy and Carl Faulkenberry perform at this annual party. The event includes a dinner buffet, champagne and party favors. Mon., Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $59 and reservations are required. Coconuts Comedy Club-St. Pete Beach, 6100 Gulf Blvd., Howard Johnson, St. Pete Beach. 727-360-5653.

Happy New Year! at Club 901 This New Year's Eve reggae party features The Fifth Element, Mr. Vibes Kalil, The Artificial Baby Sam and Master Redman. The show's promoter, Righteous, has dedicated the show to Purpleman, a fellow promoter, for having shown him the ropes. Mon., Dec. 31, 9 p.m. Admission costs $10. Club 901, 901 Franklin St., Tampa.

The Masquerade New Year's Eve Bash This two-sided party features free wells, calls and drafts all night long, and a free champagne toast at midnight. DJ Fader hosts the hip-hop, reggae and r&b party; DJ Sloane hosts the progressive '80s and retro '90s party. Mon., Dec. 31, 10 p.m. Advance tickets cost $25. Masquerade, 1503 Seventh Ave. E., Ybor City. 813-247-3319.

New Year's 2002 at Liquid Blue This South Beach-style club rings in the New Year with free hors d'oeuvres, a midnight champagne toast and a cash balloon drop. (Yes, balloons with cash inside. Get ready to scrap.) Scott Chase and John Steward of Star 95.7, regular hosts of the club's retro Saturdays party, host the affair on-air. Mon., Dec. 31, 9 p.m. Call for reservations and cover. Liquid Blue, 22 N. Fort Harrison, Clearwater. 727-446-4000.

New Year's 2002 at Prana This decadent, VIP-style club offers a free sushi and shrimp bar, your first drink is free, as well as a champagne toast and cash balloon drop at midnight. Mon., Dec. 31, 9 p.m. Tickets cost $25 advance, $30 night of. Prana, 1619 Seventh Ave., Ybor City. 813-241-4139.

New Year's at Side Splitters Comedians Greg Hahn and Daniel Tosh co-headline two festive shows New Years Eve. Hahn's appearances include the Conan O'Brien Show and five episodes of Comedy Central's Make Me Laugh, while Tosh has recently completed a pilot for the E! Network, called Celebrity Scavengers. The early show includes party favors and a complimentary champagne toast. The later show includes party favors, a complimentary champagne toast, a midnight balloon drop, dancing and a complimentary continental breakfast buffet. Mon., Dec. 31, 7:30 p.m. & 10:30 p.m. Tickets to the early show cost $15. Tickets to the later show cost $35. Side Splitters, 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. 813-960-1197.

New Year's Eve at Silver This club has a party every night of the week, so of course the New Year is no exception. The night's festivities include a champagne fountain, six bars, a buffet, a sushi bar and party favors. Mon., Dec. 31, 8 p.m. Advance tickets cost $75 per couple, $40 for individuals. Tickets at the door cost $85 per couple, $50 per person. Silver Nightclub, 13707 58th St. N., Clearwater. 727-531-0332.

New Year's Eve with Richard Jeni Comedian Richard Jeni, who's previously hosted Fox's New Year's Eve Live, hosts two shows and New Year's festivities at the Improv in Ybor City. The early show includes dinner (grilled New York strip or herb-stuffed chicken breast, roasted red potatoes, New York cheesecake and a split of premium champagne and unlimited soft drinks). The later show includes cheese and vegetable plates, free champagne and party favors, and a post-Jeni New Year party with music by Velvet Jones. Mon., Dec. 31, 7 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.-3 a.m. Reservations are required. Tickets to the first show cost $65. Tickets to the second show cost $70 per person or $130 per couple. Improv Comedy Theater, 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Centro Ybor, Ybor City. 813-864-4000.

Noon Year's Eve This celebration for kids and families features interactive games, hats, noisemakers, arts and crafts, and a variety of live entertainment, including a performance by Shana Banana. Mon., Dec. 31, 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Zoo admission costs $9.50 for adults, $8.50 for seniors and $5.95 for children 3-11. Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa. 813-935-8552.

Party on the Island This impressive bash at Tradewinds Resort is highlighted by dancing, an open bar and an amazing array of international cuisine. The selection of appetizers and hors d'oeuvres includes shrimp and black bean quesadillas, chicken pate with peanut dipping sauce and dim sum. A carving station features roast sirloin with mushroom glaze, and the dessert station boasts assorted cakes, pies, tortes and French pastries. DJ Bobby Rich spins the best of the '70s and '80s. And at midnight, there's a complimentary champagne toast. Mon., Dec. 31, 9 p.m. Party on the Island costs $149 per couple, or $75 per person. Call for overnight rates and to make party reservations. TradeWinds Island Resorts, 5600 Gulf Boulevard, St. Pete Beach. 727-562-1290.

Poinsettia Festival—Festival of Trees The 11th annual Poinsettia Festival includes 30 lavishly decorated Christmas trees in partnership with the Greater Winter Haven Junior League Festival of Trees celebration. The exhibit features traditional red, white and pink poinsettias, as well as marbled varieties, painting a lovely holiday scene. Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Admission costs $16.95-$32.95. Cypress Gardens, 2641 S. Lake Summit Drive, Winter Haven. 863-324-2111.

A Reflection on Grace Sister Catherine Cahill leads participants in a New Year's Eve retreat to focus on the graces that are available to us. The evening also includes dinner, time for reflection, Liturgy of the Eucharist and a social welcoming in of the New Year. Mon., Dec. 31, 5 p.m.-12 a.m. Cost per person is $25. For those who would like to stay overnight, add $40 per person, which includes a continental breakfast. The Franciscan Center, 3010 Perry Ave., Tampa. 813-229-2695.

A Rockin' Christmas Don't step on Santa's blue suede boots. A Rockin' Christmas is a fun-filled, energetic rock 'n' roll cabaret featuring favorite holiday songs from the '50s and '60s, as well as today's new Christmas classics. Tue.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Saturdays, 4:30 p.m.; Sundays, 4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Tickets cost $20.50 and $24.50. Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-7827.

Storman's New Year's Eve Celebration Storman's offers three party packages, all of which include party favors, a champagne toast and live music by Allon Sams (jazz keyboardist) and DJs to be announced. The two VIP packages are Gold, which includes a gourmet buffet and open bar for four hours, and Platinum, which includes a six-course surf-and-turf dinner, a table for the night and open bar all night. Mon., Dec. 31, 6 p.m. Call for package prices and to make reservations. Storman's Nite Club & Sports Cafe, 2675 Ulmerton Road, Clearwater. 727-571-2202.

The Teddy Bear Express A kid-size choo-choo train takes kids through a fantasyland of toy soldiers, giant candy canes, toy drums, sleds and decorated trees. Teddy bears abound on every available perch. There's also a hands-on play area. Museum highlights include BioWorks Butterfly Garden, an engineered ecosystem that emulates natural wetlands; the Back Woods, 40 acres of special water conservation elements and outdoor exhibits; and the IMAX Dome Theatre, which features an 82-foot hemispherical movie screen. Mon.-Thur., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. The Museum's combo admission is $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and $9 for ages 2 to 13. Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. 813-987-6300.

Winterland This celebration of lights is a drive-thru luminary park created along a mile-and-a-half route through the southwest corner of the USF-Tampa campus. Animated lights depict holiday scenes, such as Reindeer, Candy Land and The 12 Days of Christmas. Huge Oak trees also bear thousands of lights. And to complement the visual effects, vehicles passing through the park can tune in to Holiday music played over the FM band. More than 20,000 cars visited the site during the course of last year's 40-day event. The entrance is at Spectrum Boulevard, just north of Fowler Avenue, off Bruce B. Downs. Mon.-Thur., Sun., 6-10 p.m.; Saturdays, 6-11 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Admission costs $20 per vehicle. University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. 813-974-2323.

WMNF's New Year's Eve The WMNF-88.5 FM tribe gathers to bring in the New Year with the station's favorite jam band, Donna the Buffalo, known for their long, groove-filled sets that pack the dance floor. This BYOB event is smoke-free, for those who prefer their first breath of 2002 be a fresh one. Mon., Dec. 31, 9 p.m. Tickets cost $30 advance, $40 at the door. Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. N., St. Petersburg. 727-892-5202.

Attractions

Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. 863-676-1408. Christmas at Pinewood: Songs of the Season. Pinewood, designed by architect Charles Waite, is on the National register of Historic Places, and has been showcased in Home & Garden Television's Christmas Castles. Each of the Mediterranean Revival-style villa's 20 rooms are decorated to portray a favorite holiday song. Fine linens, intricate tile, antique furnishings, sterling silver and crystal adorn the rooms. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 7. Admission costs $11 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-12.

Busch Gardens 3000 E. Busch Blvd., Tampa. 813-987-5082. Busch Gardens' Celebrate Safe. This Tampa Bay tradition combines the exhaustive entertainment of Busch Gardens with fireworks displays and a midnight ball drop, all for a good cause. The non-alcohol event is the biggest fundraiser for the Celebrate Safe Foundation. Proceeds benefit the Hillsborough Education Foundation. Mon., Dec. 31, 8 p.m.-1 a.m. General admission costs $25.95 in advance, $29.95 day of.

Cypress Gardens 2641 S. Lake Summit Drive, Winter Haven. 863-324-2111. Poinsettia Festival—Festival of Trees. The 11th annual Poinsettia Festival includes 30 lavishly decorated Christmas trees in partnership with the Greater Winter Haven Junior League Festival of Trees celebration. The exhibit features traditional red, white and pink poinsettias, as well as marbled varieties, painting a lovely holiday scene. Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-9 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Admission costs $16.95-$32.95. Lectures & Seminars

Antique Firetrucks 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. Mon.-Thur., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission is free; donations are encouraged. Kid's Firehouse Museum, 9510 Kids Firehouse Ave., Largo. 727-585-1300.

Dragons Down Under The aquarium's popular Sea Dragon exhibit features some new inhabitants. Approximately 45 new animals from six species have been added (as of New Year's Day). The enhancement more completely portrays the underwater life of subtropical and tropical Australian reefs. The aquarium also features more than 10,000 aquatic plants and animals in three galleries: Wetlands, Bays and Beaches, and Coral Reefs. Enjoy behind-the-scenes and audio tours, dive shows and a touch-tank with sharks and rays. Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through May 1. Tickets cost $13.75 for adults, $12.75 for seniors, $8.75 for ages 3-12 and free for children under 3. Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-273-4000.

Heart & Hands: Musical Instrument Makers of America Eighty-six framed Iris prints by photographer Jake Jacobsen depict craftspeople from 30 states. The portraits are accompanied by research by Trisja Malisoff. The exhibit has been organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Services. The following exhibits continue indefinitely: The Cuban Missile Crisis; The Kennedy Collection; and U2: The Spy Plane. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 12-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. All-inclusive day passes cost $12, and annual passes go for $20. Florida International Museum, 100 Second St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-822-3693.

Matriarchs and Mantillas: the Women of Ybor Using historical photographs and artifacts, this exhibit reveals the unique character of the women who settled Ybor City and created a culture of their own in this immigrant community. These women are remembered as hardworking and business-like, yet also for their femininity, illustrated by their lace mantillas and Spanish fans. Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through March 31. Visitors may see the Museum and the Casita (worker's home) for $2 per person. Ybor City State Museum, 1818 Ninth Ave., Ybor City. 813-247-6323.

SCIONS Pot Luck The Center for Conscious Living is holding its quarterly pot luck and discussion. A video based on Elisabet Satouris's plenary address at the IONS Spirit Rising conference in July is being screened. Hear remarks on the intelligent biological evolution of Earth, and where we are headed both personally and universally. Sun., Dec. 30, 5 p.m. Free (but you got to bring something to eat). The Center for Conscious Living, 6152 126th Ave. N., Largo. 727-538-0900.

Sports & RecreationCoed Volleyball If you want to get your game on without committing to a team or schedule, this is the place. Walk-ins are always welcome at this free, social spike fest. Tuesdays, 7:30-10 p.m. Continues through May 1. Forest Hills Recreation Center, 724 W. 109th Ave., Tampa. 813-977-0892.

Guided hike Grab the bug spray and a few good friends before heading out to Brooker Creek (Tarpon Springs) for a free guided tour of the grounds. Reservations are a must. Saturdays, 9-11 a.m. Continues through May 1. 813-943-4003.

Laser Tag at the Ice Sports Forum The Forum, already a popular ice skating venue, has opened a 3,300-square-foot, space-theme laser tag facility capable of handling up to 40 players at once. Competition levels vary from fun-seekers to experienced, all-out players, with walk-ons and leagues welcome. Ice Sports Forum, 10222 Elizabeth Place, Tampa. 813-684-7825.

Osprey Bay Kayaks Aside from a variety of classes, Osprey also offers regular outings, including Sunset and Full Moon Paddles, Weekday Get Aways (Clearwater Bay, Caladesi Island, etc.) and fishing trips. Call for a full schedule of events, costs and other information. Osprey Bay Kayaks, 17910 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater. 727-524-9670.

Tampa Bay Lightning Watch the Lightning take on the Boston Bruins, ay. Sat., Dec. 29, 7:30 p.m. Tickets cost $8-$150. Ice Palace, 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-223-1000.

Classical Music

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Considered on of the top live Christmas entertainment attractions, the Trans-Siberian Orchestra performs Christmas Eve & Other Stories, a full-scale musical production. The orchestra brings together contemporary rock and classical symphonics. Sat., Dec. 29, 8 p.m. Advance tickets cost $30.50 and $40.50. Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-7827.

Comedy

Coconuts Comedy Club-Clearwater Steve Sabo. Dec. 28-29, 9:30 p.m. Cover varies (two-drink minimum). 24095 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater. 727-797-5653.

Coconuts Comedy Club-St. Pete Beach Danny Bevins. Dec. 27-30, 9:30 p.m. Open Mic Night featuring Ken Evans. Wed., Jan. 2, 9:30 p.m. Cover varies (two-drink minimum). 6100 Gulf Blvd., Howard Johnson, St. Pete Beach. 727-360-5653.

Improv Comedy Theater A.J. Jamal. Discovered by colleagues while working as an IBM computer engineer, Jamal's brief career has already found him making appearances on MTV's 1/2 Hour Comedy Hour, In Living Color and HBO's Def Comedy Jam. His intelligent, PG-rated material is refreshingly clean, not to mention good. Wed.-Sat., 8 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 10:30 p.m.; Jan. 6, 7 p.m. & 9 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Tickets cost $8-$14, depending on the night, and cost $2 more at the door. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Centro Ybor, Ybor City. 813-864-4000.

Side Splitters Greg Hahn and Daniel Tosh. This pair of comedians co-headline through New Years Eve. Hahn's appearances include the Conan O'Brien Show, five episodes of Comedy Central's Make Me Laugh and the movie Pootie Tang. Tosh, raised on Florida's Space Coast, has recently completed a pilot for the E! Network, Celebrity Scavengers, co-hosted by Debbie Dunning, the Tool-Time girl from Home Improvement. Wed., Thur., Sun., 8:30 p.m.; Dec. 28-29, 8 p.m. & 10:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. Admission costs $8-$14 (depending on the night). See the Holiday section for details on Side Splitters' New Year's Eve show. 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. 813-960-1197.

Museums

Florida Aquarium Dragons Down Under. The aquarium's popular Sea Dragon exhibit features some new inhabitants. Approximately 45 new animals from six species have been added (as of New Year's Day). The enhancement more completely portrays the underwater life of subtropical and tropical Australian reefs. The aquarium also features more than 10,000 aquatic plants and animals in three galleries: Wetlands, Bays and Beaches, and Coral Reefs. Enjoy behind-the-scenes and audio tours, dive shows and a touch-tank with sharks and rays. Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets cost $13.75 for adults, $12.75 for seniors, $8.75 for ages 3-12 and free for children under 3. 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-273-4000.

Florida Holocaust Museum On the Edge of the Abyss. This exhibit of 93 drawings by Ella Liebermann-Shiber captures the horrors she witnessed in Nazi captivity. Ella's family was taken from Berlin in 1938, and she eventually ended up in Auschwitz-Birkenau. Her father and brothers were killed, but she and her mother survived due to Ella's artistic ability (she painted portraits for the Germans). Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., Sun., 12-5 p.m. Continues through Feb. 24. Admission is $6 for general, $5 for seniors and college students, $2 for ages 18 and under, and members get in free. 55 Fifth St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-820-0100.

Florida International Museum Heart & Hands: Musical Instrument Makers of America. Eighty-six framed Iris prints by photographer Jake Jacobsen depict craftspeople from 30 states. The portraits are accompanied by research by Trisja Malisoff. The exhibit has been organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Services. The following exhibits continue indefinitely: The Cuban Missile Crisis; The Kennedy Collection; and U2: The Spy Plane. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 12-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. All-inclusive day passes cost $12, and annual passes go for $20. 100 Second St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-822-3693.

Gulf Coast Museum of Art Outside the Box: Eleven International Artists. Works by Carmelo Arden Quin and Volf Roitman are featured in this exhibit, which runs concurrently with an exhibit of Andrew Morgan paintings: Paintings of the '90s. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sundays, 12-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 27. Admission costs $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for students (free on Thursday). 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo. 727-518-6833.

Kid's Firehouse Museum Antique Firetrucks. 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. Mon.-Thur., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission is free; donations are encouraged. 9510 Kids Firehouse Ave., Largo. 727-585-1300.

Museum of Fine Arts Collecting for the Community: 20 Years of Treasures. The Museum's comprehensive collection has more than doubled during the 20-year tenure of director Michael Milkovich. This exhibit features major works from the nearly 4,000 objects he helped to acquire. The collection contains significant works by Rembrandt, Monet, Gauguin, Renoir, Cezanne and O'Keefe. Milkovich, who recently retired, now holds the title of Director Emeritus. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 1-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Admission costs $6 for adults. 255 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-896-2667.

Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) The Teddy Bear Express. A kid-size choo-choo train takes kids through a fantasyland of toy soldiers, giant candy canes, toy drums, sleds and decorated trees. Teddy bears abound on every available perch. There's also a hands-on play area. Museum highlights include BioWorks Butterfly Garden, an engineered ecosystem that emulates natural wetlands; the Back Woods, 40 acres of special water conservation elements and outdoor exhibits; and the IMAX Dome Theatre, which features an 82-foot hemispherical movie screen. Mon.-Thur., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. The Museum's combo admission is $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and $9 for ages 2 to 13. 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. 813-987-6300.

Salvador Dali Museum Jacqueline Lamba Retrospective. French painter Jacqueline Lamba (1910-93) is best known for inspiring artistic contributions to the surrealist movement. This exhibit brings together 25 of her paintings produced between 1938 and 1988, including a portrait of her husband, the poet and writer Andre Breton, and a number of non-objective surrealist works from the 1940s. Mon.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sundays, 12-5:30 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission costs $10 for adults, $5 for students. 1000 Third St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-823-3767.

Tampa Gallery of Photographic Arts War and Peace: World War II. Images loaned by Nicholas Orzio, General Douglas MacArthur's personal photographer, dominate TGPA's new exhibit, a collection of World War II photographs. Orzio, who traveled occupied Japan during 1948 and 1949, has documented the war crimes trials, the people, the earthquakes and volcano activity. His images detail the physical struggle of the Japanese people and provide a glimpse into the moods and emotions of the men, women and children recovering from a devastating war. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fridays, 5-9 p.m. Continues through Jan. 27. Free. Old Hyde Park Village, 746 S. Village Circle, Tampa. 813-251-1800.

Tampa Museum of Art A View into Antiquity. This exhibit of pottery, from the collection of William Suddaby and David Meier, consists of 52 examples of ancient Greek and Italian ceramics from the Late Bronze Age to the Classical Period. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 1-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 13. Admission ranges from $3 to $5; free 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays and 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday. 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. 813-274-8130.

Ybor City State Museum Matriarchs and Mantillas: the Women of Ybor. Using historical photographs and artifacts, this exhibit reveals the unique character of the women who settled Ybor City and created a culture of their own in this immigrant community. These women are remembered as hardworking and business-like, yet also for their femininity, illustrated by their lace mantillas and Spanish fans. Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through March 31. Visitors may see the Museum and the Casita (worker's home) for $2 per person. 1818 Ninth Ave., Ybor City. 813-247-6323.

Spoken Word

Beaux Arts Gallery and Folk Coffeehouse Open Mic. 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. A donation of $2 to $5 is suggested at the door, but coffee, tea and cake are free. 2635 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-328-0702.

Computer Port Cafe Open mic. This cafe offers Internet access in addition to exotic coffees, tea and an assortment of gourmet baked goods. And every Friday and Saturday, from 7 to 11 p.m., the venue plays host to an open mic for musicians, comedians, poets, etc. 432 Poinsettia Ave., Clearwater Beach. 727-441-2667.

Hollywood Java Coffee House & Bar Open mic. This new hangout is in Bay Street at the International Plaza. Hollywood Java features Open Mic Nite every Wednesday for musicians, poets and comedians. Two mics, a P.A. and a guitar amp are provided. Sign-up begins at 7 p.m. 2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. 813-348-1415.

Insomnia Coffee House Gallery Words Awake. This spoken word open mic takes place at 8 p.m. every Thursday. An open mic for musicians, poets, comedians (anyone) also takes place at 9 p.m. every Tuesday, hosted by Big Rick (sign-up starts at 8 p.m.). 32884 U.S. 19, Palm Harbor. 727-789-3771.

Joffrey's Cybercafe Broad Stroking. Doris Owens Yates hosts this weekly open mic poetry reading at 3 p.m. every Sunday. All poets are welcome. Kelly Green hosts Two for One Tuesday, an open mic for any and all artists, from 8 p.m. to midnight every Tuesday. 5165 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-865-0605.

Lloyd's Cajun Cafe Black on Black Rhyme. This intense spoken word event takes place every Tuesday night, featuring the We Take No Prisoners Poetry Troupe. The troupe challenges the spoken word artists to weekly battles on various topics — men versus women, for instance. The event takes place at 8 p.m. every Tuesday. The cover is $5. 1910 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. 813-242-4364.

The Tavern on Bayboro Shana's Open Mic Night. Hosted by Pete Gallagher, this open mic for musicians and poets takes place every Wednesday night (except Dec. 19-Jan. 2). A different featured guest plays a 30-minute set each week. The event takes place at 8 p.m. every Wednesday. 121 Seventh Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 727-821-1418. Theater: OngoingA Christmas Cannoli: Or a Tale of Two Families The players of Yellow Snow Productions perform this original mob-style Christmas comedy. Full of gats and goumbas, the play takes shots at gangster cliches while the spirits try to knock some sense into Ebenezer Scungili, the meanest godfather in the city. Dec. 20, 8 p.m.; Dec. 21, 8 p.m.; Dec. 22, 8 p.m.; Dec. 23, 3 p.m.; Dec. 28, 8 p.m.; Dec. 29, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $10. Carrollwood Playhouse, 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. 813-265-4000.

'Tis the Season to Do Folly This Christmas murder mystery by Aubrey Hampton is a comedic whodunnit. Nothing like a little murder and mayhem to put you in the holiday spirit. Sat., Sun., 3 p.m.; Thursdays, 7 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 30. Tickets cost $22, $19 for students and seniors. The Gorilla Theatre, 4419 N. Hubert Ave. #D, Tampa. 813-879-2914.

'Twas the Night Before Christmas American Stage celebrates the holiday season with its Theater for Families production of 'Twas the Night Before Christmas, a premiere musical based on the timeless Christmas poem. This original work explores the legend of Santa Claus, from Santa's boyhood to his present job as Father Christmas. No performances Dec. 24 or 25. Wed.-Sat., 7 p.m.; Dec. 21, 10 p.m.; Sat., Sun., 3 p.m.; Dec. 28, 3 p.m. Continues through Dec. 30. Tickets cost $15 for adults, $7 for children 12 and under. American Stage, 211 Third St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-823-7529.

Visual Arts: Openings

Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce TESA Exhibit. This four-person show, beginning Friday, Dec. 28, features the work of Ruth Mabee, Elaine McCormick, Margareta Jacobs and Charles Partin III. All four artists have exhibited their work with TESA (The Exhibiting Society of Artists) for some time. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Feb. 7. 1130 Cleveland St., Clearwater. 727-768-0744.

Tarpon Springs Cultural Center The Dodecanese Islands. This exhibit features artifacts, costumes and recreated room settings from the Dodecanese Islands in Greece. John Lulias and Maria Pantelis curate the exhibit. Jan. 2, 5-7 p.m.; Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 26. 101 S. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs. 727-942-5605.

Visual Arts: Ongoing

Art House Heavenly Harlots. Meet New York artist Dino Kotopoulis, an award-winning animation director, designer and character sketcher for companies such as Universal Studios, Disney and several major advertising agencies, including Leo Burnett. He's since turned his artistic talents to making whimsical bas-relief caricatures of real people into furniture he calls Egos. Currently he's creating cut metal sculptures, including the Heavenly Harlots series. Wed.-Sat., 12-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 30. 233 Second St. S., Safety Harbor. 727-724-0122.

Artists Unlimited Life in Stone. The exhibit consists of more than two dozen hand-carved sculptures by artists of Zimbabwe, Africa. Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. 223 N. 12th St., Tampa. 813-229-5958.

Baisden Gallery A New Wave of Glass II. This exhibit, featuring works by six young glass artists, is the gallery's second annual show highlighting artists who're gaining attention for their glass work. The artists are Jeanne Brennan, Nancy Callan, Mark Morris, Amy Rueffert, Ross Richmond and David Walters. Tue., Thur., Sat., 12-4 p.m.; Wed., Fri., 1-5 p.m. Continues through Feb. 3. 442 Grand Central Ave., Suite 100, Tampa. 813-250-1511.

Clayton Galleries Small Works: A Holiday Group Show. Twenty gallery artists display works in a wide range of media. All the works are smaller than 25 inches. Among the works are ornaments displayed on the gallery's Christmas tree. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 5. 4105 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa. 813-831-3753.

Davidson Fine Art The Beat Generation. This collection of works by notable beat writers includes original art, manuscripts, letters and books by Kerouac, Burroughs, Ginsberg, Corso, Ferlinghetti, Baraka, Creely, Rivers and Bukowski. The show's producer and collection owner, Dr. William Plumley, is a published author himself (most recently in The Chicago Review), and has edited five anthologies of folklore, poetry and fiction. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 10. 725 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-827-1888.

Dunedin Fine Art Center Wheels: Artists and Automobiles. Wheels examines the American obsession with automobiles, as well as the artistry, mystique and cultural impact of wheels. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sundays, 1-4 p.m. Continues through March 30. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin. 727-298-3322.

Florida Craftsmen Gallery Season of Lights. The gallery is stocked throughout with fine contemporary crafts designed for gift giving, including an installation of handsome, handmade cups and mugs. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 29. 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-821-7391.

The Gallery of Owen Sweet Design Language of the Heart. This exhibit consists of pop art-influenced oil and acrylic paintings by local artist Dragoslav Milic. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 28. 16701 Gulf Blvd. N., Redington Beach. 727-392-6936.

HCC-Ybor Gallery Blake High School Senior Masters Exhibit. This juried exhibit consists of the best works by Blake High School's senior art students. The exhibit includes various media — painting, photography, glass, jewelry, ceramics and sculpture. Tuesdays, 12-8 p.m.; Mon., Wed.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 3. In the HCC Performing Arts Building, at Palm Avenue and 15th Street, Ybor City. 813-253-7674.

Hyde Park Fine Arts Winter Salon. This multimedia, salon-style exhibit features the work of more than 20 artists, most of whom are new to the gallery. These new artists include folk painter Kathleen Deasey, ceramist Linda Chumley, and painters Bruce Minney and Marlene London. Returning gallery favorites include Lynn Whipple, Margaret Steward, Jack Barrett and Bask. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Continues through Jan. 5. 937 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. 813-258-8883.

Lemon Studios and Gallery Trajectories. Chicago artist Carrie Shield displays works that pay homage to Piet Mondrian. Shield, who received her MFA from the University of Washington in Seattle, works primarily in oil on linen. Saturdays, 12-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 1601 N. Marion St., Tampa. 813-805-7487.

Merrick Gallery Glass/Painting Exhibit. Merrick's latest exhibit features glass by Florida glass blower Duncan McClellan and new works by Antonio Caparello, who worked for pop art master James Rosenquist as a painter and studio assistant for 10 years. McClellan has created some new pieces with his graal-and-overlay technique. Caparello, a billboard artist for many years, has focused of late on smaller works of oil on canvas. Wed., Thur., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sundays, 1-6 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 330 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-896-2787.

New Heights Gallery Romantic Realists. This two-woman show introduces artists Lou Lair Harton and Beverly Barris to the Tampa Bay area. Harton is a recent arrival from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, and Barris is from New York City. Harton's oil paintings are accomplished treatments of Brazilian women, adorned with tropical fruits and flowers. Barris, whose influences gravitate toward Rembrandt, creates atmospheric and figurative charcoals and pastels. Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Continues through Feb. 16. 6310 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa. 813-234-9758.

Octagon Arts Center Whimsical Winter Scenes and Frosted Fantasies. All of the works in this show are somehow related to winter, be it in color, content, subject or allusion. The show includes works by mixed-media artists Lee Edgar and Karen Ann Westby, metal sculptor Brandy Stark, landscape/dreamscape painter Boo Ehrsam and photographer Kevin Peters. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Jan. 9. 2470 Nursery Road, Clearwater. 727-531-7704.

The Packinghouse Gallery The Essence of Nature. Barb Collins of St. Petersburg exhibits her fine nature photography. Wed., Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Thur., Fri., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m. Continues through Jan. 15. 10900 Oakhurst Road, Largo. 727-596-7822.

Realty Executives Confident Art. An exhibit of paintings by Ludner Confident, a Haitian-born artist/anesthesiologist, hangs in this unlikeliest of galleries. The artist, known as Ludy, paints female portraits enmeshed in such themes as love, sports, the tropics and music. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 2861 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-867-9600.

Salt Creek Artworks New Works by Gustavo Llenas and Tiphanie Windsor Perez. This exhibit is curated by Lance Rodgers. Tue.-Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 25. 1600 Fourth St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-894-2653.

St. Pete Beach Art Institute Reflections. This three-woman show features works by painter Gayle Woodley, multi-media painter Gay Womack and potter Ann Sackett. Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 29. 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. 727-367-3818.

Susan Benjamin Glass Etc. All the Glitter of Glass. Fine glass works by artists from across the country are on display in this holiday collection, which includes perfume bottles, paperweights, glass flowers and handblown Christmas ornaments. Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Jan. 17. 247 Main St., Safety Harbor. 727-725-1808.

Syd Entel Galleries Spirits of the Holidays. Atlanta-based oil painter Thomas Arvid is quickly gaining a national reputation as today's premier painter of fine wine images. This exhibit of new works can be appreciated by wine connoisseurs and art collectors alike. Wine Spectator (Nov. 2000) showcased Arvid's work in a handsome profile and U.S. Art Gallery named him one of 25 Artists You Should Know (Aug. 2001). Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Jan. 17. 247 Main St., Safety Harbor. 727-725-1808.

Synthesis Fine Arts Lure of Color. Recent works by Yvette Galliher are on display in the mezzanine, and a group show of paintings and sculptures by more than a dozen local artists is on display in the lobby. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 12. Tampa City Center, 201 N. Franklin St., Tampa. 877-796-8437.

TECO Public Art Gallery Landscapes/Portraits. Ruth T. Nienhaus exhibits 20 watercolors of landscapes and various portraits. Nienhaus has studied painting at the University of Georgia, and traveled throughout Florida, the Caribbean and Central America. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 704 N. Franklin St., Tampa. 813-251-3688.

This article appears in Dec 27, 2001 – Jan 2, 2002.