Martinis & Matisse Firehouse Subs Donates What Do the Two Have in Common? Lifesaving Rescue Jacks by Angela LeMay Local Restaurant Owners Present Life-Saving Devices to Palm Harbor Fire Department

Representatives of Firehouse Subs and the Palm Harbor Fire Department with donated rescue jacks.

n Jan 31st the Firehouse Subs Florida area, and Leslie Wildes, Public Safety Foundation, along director of community programs were O with Bill and Carolyn Schaefer, there representing Firehouse Subs. owners of the Firehouse Subs restaurant Additionally, James Angle, Fire Chief, in Palm Harbor, presented a pair of Mark Snow, deputy chief of support Honorary chairpersons 2008 Fred and Aleta Fisher with fine artist Sophie Matisse rescue jacks, an essential tool used to services, Craig Maciuba, deputy chief ell… if you drink too many of the first the event space. Much to my jaw-dropping stabilize and secure vehicles during of operations, Bob Markford, chief of you get a “hang over”, and the latter is amazement it was already overflowing and extrication, to the Palm Harbor Fire EMS, Tim Pilson, chief of training and W a masterpiece to “hang on” the wall… bustling with guests. Department. Dan Zinge, district chief and extrication team captain from the Palm Harbor …or to win in an Art Lottery to benefit the While urgently looking around for my Bill and Carolyn Schaefer, franchise Fire Department were in attendance. Clearwater Free Clinic, which is why over 460 photographer, I spotted Frank Hibbard gallantly owners of the Palm Harbor location art patrons and philanthropists flocked to the standing with an entourage of supporters. and Mike Kelly and Richard Taylor, “We appreciate the tremendous support... FrankCrum™ building for their chance at a I gave the mayor a quick glance of admiration area representatives for the Central Continued on page 11 Matisse as well as 120 other fabulous works and confidence toward his re-election. of art. But let’s not forget the delicious food, Next, discovering Simaen clicking away Local Artist Spotlight for February and of course the famous martinis provided paparazzi-style and capturing the essence of... by Bonefish Grill. This event was sponsored OFRA FRIEDMAN by many of Clearwater’s elite and served to Continued on page 6 bring the community together to raise much- needed funds. On a blustery January evening with a little over a week to go until the Pinellas County Municipal and Primary election day, the 5th Annual “Martinis and Matisse: An Art Lottery” was the buzz of Clearwater. Cars filled with purposed guests patiently lined North Missouri just outside the entrance to the FrankCrum ™ building to attend this grand event benefiting the Clearwater Free Clinic. While making our way into the shelter of the gala’s entrance, my art director, Ana and I (huddled under one umbrella) glanced back to see if the line of cars had subsided; it had Ofra and Congressman Gus Bilirakis next to her work, “Contemporary I“ not, with the long procession inching along fra Friedman creates original the New York academy of Art and the towards something great to come. Making Participating artist Raquel Egosi displays her work, “Gold Mine”. our way inside, we met with another line of art using metal wire mesh. Northern New Jersey Art Center. IN THIS ISSUE Ofra grew up in Israel. After guests who were busily signing reception O Ofra has worked with different art 1 Martinis & Matisse serving two years in the Israeli Army, books and buying their art lottery tickets. media such as clay, stone, plaster 1 Firehouse Subs Donates Lifesaving Rescue Jacks she moved to the U.S. in 1985, and Excitement was in the air! 1 Local Artist Spotlight and resin, and experimented with lived 7 years in Long Island, NY, 3 2 Chamber of Commerce Business of the Year Awards sculpture casting. Contriving my interview questions - as we 3 Go for Baroque Early Festival years in Washington D.C. and one were ushered through to the next “turnstile- 3 From the Desk of Sheriff Jim Coats year in New Jersey. In 1997 Ofra moved to Clearwater, like” checkpoint – and hoping we would 4 Recession Florida. In 1998 she studied wire mesh 5 What is the Natural Health Association? From 1992-1995 she studied visual Arts soon discover a less inhabited area were 5 Rule by Fear sculpture at the studio of renowned at SCC College, in Long Island, New we could spot my photographer Simaen to 6 Poetry artist Shulamit Hartal in Tel-Aviv, 7 Presenting the Presenters York, and completed her A.S. degree regroup and strategize our venue reporting. Israel. Inspired with this medium... 9 Education or Medication? in Studio Arts with distinction. She My plot was suddenly diverted to the site of 10 Classifieds also studied figurative sculpture in Continued on page 7

Visit www.tampabayinformer.com – To Advertise, Email: [email protected] – TAMPA BAY INFORMER – 727.230.9691 – Page 1 Tampa Bay Informer Tampa bay informer purpose The Good News Newspaper www.tampabayinformer.com “To improve the community by raising awareness and responsibility and providing solutions to community issues. Publisher LeMay & Associates, Inc. We are achieving this purpose by publishing informative articles related to issues in the community which include community Editor activities sponsored by non-profit and civic groups. Our articles Angela LeMay invite members of the community to get involved and take action to Contributing Writers help improve our community. Laurie Anspach Joe Yazbeck Our advertisers help fund our purpose and in turn, our marketing Sheriff Jim Coats department is continuously expanding our circulation and Valerie Harding increasing the exposure of our advertisers, resulting in Editor Cary Goulston expansion of their businesses.” Angela LeMay Austin Ryder Staff Photographer Simaen Skolfield Letters to Editor [email protected] Press Releases [email protected] Advertising [email protected] (727) 230-9691 Design & Layout Ian Phoenix Technical Director Uwe Stern VP of Operations Ana Livingston

Standard postage paid. All stories are compiled from assignments, news wires, submissions or press releases The views expressed by authors do not neccessarily reflect the views of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to edit all manuscripts. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the publisher’s prior permission. Tampa Bay Informer reserves the right to refuse any advertising copy deemed objectionable by our advisory board.

Staff Photographer Simaen Skolfield With a passion for the arts, Simaen Skolfield has won the prestigious Grammy Award with his keen ears for capturing the realism of music and sound. In photography, he brings his uncanny skills to the visual world by framing life in its fullest senses. In photographic moments of all kinds; weddings to family, to portraitures, Simaen possesses certain, rare abilities with which to capture our private world . As Simaen puts it, “I want to capture the full beauty of every special moment so our lives will be cherished again and again, the world over.”

Mr. Skolfield is an independent professional digital-image-capture photographer, ‘writing with light’, at home here in Clearwater, Florida.

You can contact him at 727-557-6407 Little Book of Cleveland Street Poetry – Call for Submissions In celebration of National Poetry Month in April, Acceptance notification will be sent to each contributor no later than Artists in Action International and the Clearwater Main April 10, 2008. Street Program will co-sponsor the Cleveland Street 5. Please mail submissions to: Poetry Walk on Saturday, April 19, 2008. This event Stazja McFadyen will feature the release reading of the Little Book of 100 Waverly Way, #310, Clearwater, Florida 33756 Cleveland Street Poetry with copies available for sale. or email to [email protected] Guidelines: All contributors will receive complimentary copies of the book. 1. Poems must relate to Cleveland Street, downtown Clearwater past or present, or life on the Florida Gulf Coast. For additional submission info, contact Stazja at [email protected]. For more info regarding the Cleveland Street Poetry Walk, contact Shelley 2. Poem length is limited to 36 lines (not including title line) at [email protected]. For more information about Artists in Action 3. Deadline for submissions is March 15, 2008. International, visit www.artistsinactionint.org. For more info about the 4. Include name, address, phone and/or email address, and a brief bio. Clearwater Main Street Program, contact Anne Fogarty at (727) 562-4044.

Page 2 – 727.230.9691 – TAMPA BAY INFORMER – To Advertise, Email: [email protected] – Visit www.tampabayinformer.com From the Desk of Sheriff Jim Coats Frequently I am promoting safety through education to the approached by children of Pinellas County. This mission citizens who are has been accomplished by supporting curious about programs within the Youth Education and the operation Services Division of the Sheriff’s Office of the Pinellas like the Drug Abuse Resistance Education County Sheriff’s Program, Explorer Post 900, in addition WHEN: March 9 at 3 pm CHARGE: No tickets needed Office. Often to the Florida Sheriff’s Youth Ranches, and seating is first come, first times these the Police Athletic League and a variety WHAT: Concert by Piffaro, an same people of other youth organizations. internationally known Renaissance served. A free will offering will are interested Members also enjoy a breakfast meeting in getting involved, but they are unsure ensemble. Based in Philadelphia, be taken. held each Thursday of the month in one how they can do so. My response almost of four different locations across Pinellas Piffaro is known for its highly always includes an invitation to consider RECEPTION: After the concert, County. As Sheriff I greet the members polished and energetic performances becoming a member of the Sheriff’s as they arrive by 8:00 AM after which Advisory Board. of late medieval and Renaissance there will be a light reception in the the breakfast commences. Following a composers. This group plays an fellowship hall so you can meet, The Sheriff’s Advisory Board is a not-for- brief business meeting, a special speaker profit organization that has been in existence provides a presentation in his or her area of interesting combination of ancient greet and thank the musicians. for almost fifty years and currently has expertise as a member of the Sheriff’s Office. instruments including shawms, more than 300 members. The group was Through this interaction with members There are four formed in 1961 by Sheriff Don Genung of the Sheriff’s Office, the Advisory Board sackbuts, dulcians, recorders, PARKING: places to park: behind the church and was originally known as the Junior has been exposed to information about krumhorns, bagpipes, lutes, Deputy League. At that time members crime prevention, personal safety, the new guitars and percussion. This is off of Pierce; directly east across had an interest in promoting the general technology being used within the Sheriff’s the final event in the three day Ft. Harrison in large County lot; welfare of our residents by providing Office, new services being provided to the services and instruction for the youth of community, new opportunities available Go For Baroque Festival. For more just north of the church's fellowship Pinellas County. Their desire included to citizens, and much more. info visit the festival website at: hall, and west in the Clearwater providing programs and activities for To join the Sheriff’s Advisory Board you www.goforbaroque.us. children that allowed them to achieve must be an adult resident of Pinellas or City Hall lot. recognition, build self confidence and an adjacent county, who is of good moral WHERE: Peace Memorial responsibility as they developed into good character, and you must be interested INFO: For more info, contact the citizens who obeyed the law and showed in good government and advancing the Presb. Church (the pink church respect for individual rights. church office at (727) 446-3001 or purposes of the organization. Anyone downtown) 110 S. Ft. Harrison Over the years membership grew and interested in becoming a member of the Ave., Clwr. (corner of Pierce and Music Committee Chair, Beth Daniels became known as the Sheriff’s Advisory Pinellas County Sheriff’s Advisory Board Ft. Harrison) at (727) 461‑1818. Board but the mission remained the same. is invited to contact Deputy Joni Holstein The group has continued to consistently at (727) 464-6133 or the Youth Education support the outreach of the Sheriff’s Office in and Services Division at (727) 464-8037.

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Clearwater Downtown Partnership Celebrates the Clearwater Regional Chamber of Commerce 2008 Business of the Year Awards

PostcardMania and Sunbelt Software Founders PostcardMania tied this year with the prestigious achieve recognition for best business practices JMC Communities, an award-winning St. and exemplary growth by the Clearwater Petersburg-based developer specializing in Regional Chamber of Commerce at the luxurious waterfront communities. organization’s annual business awards dinner. Sunbelt Software is a leading provider of Windows security software with product Clearwater, FL, 4 February 2008 — A solutions in the areas of antispam and crowd of about 500 chamber members antivirus, antispyware, and vulnerability and guests attended The Clearwater assessment. As Stu Sjouwerman so aptly Regional Chamber of Commerce’s 86th put it, “We keep the bad guys out!” The Annual Meeting held on January 31, company was founded in 1994 and is 2008 at the Innisbrook Resort and Golf part of Sunbelt International Group, Club to celebrate the achievements based in , France. They too have of many business and civic leaders been recognized by Inc magazine for whom have made a positive impact their rapid growth. on the community. Two CEOs of the 5 winners were executive board “The commitment you both have to members of the Clearwater Downtown your employees, business practices Partnership (CDP) — Joy Gendusa and world class products were evident and Stu Sjouwerman. to those making the selections.” said Bob Clifford, who serves as Hailed as the fastest-growing direct the Chamber’s Treasurer. “You mail postcard marketing firm both make Clearwater a better in the nation by Inc Magazine, place to live and work.” Clifford PostcardMania was honored is also the Vice President for as the 2008 Large In-State Business Banking at Synovis Business of the Year. Bank in Clearwater.

Visit www.tampabayinformer.com – To Advertise, Email: [email protected] – TAMPA BAY INFORMER – 727.230.9691 – Page 3 Recession Whether it comes or not YOU CAN BE SAFE instead of sorry… by Austin Ryder

ost economists define a recession on an individual and their family. you have an excellent payment history to the National Association of Realtors, as the time when business How can one protect against a financial and even pay extra monthly payments. property values doubles every ten years. Mactivity has reached its peak and calamity? First, try not to lose your job. Though I could never understand the One only needs to stop and think of the starts to fall until the time when business Second, if you do lose your job you can concept of asking a lending institution powerful source of wealth that your activity bottoms out. When the business for permission to access your own money draw the necessary funds to pay your home generates. Unfortunately, most activity starts to rise again it’s called an monthly bills from the massive funds (your equity) and then they require you home owners trap their equity in their expansion. You may be more familiar with from your savings and even dip into to pay it back (the loan) and the worse homes. Homes that are destroyed by the media’s over-simplified definition such your 401K and IRAs. You say, you part is the bank requires that you natural disasters and not covered by as when the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) have not accumulated a sufficient pay them interest (the show two or more consecutive months of nest egg in order to prepare for fee for having your own Homeowner’s insurance. Think of the downturn. Economists examine several such a situation? You don’t money). loss of homes and their equity lost to principal indicators of business activity have any retirement A solution to this Katrina in New Orleans and Mississippi. in the economy: employment, industrial funds and even if problem is to Think of all those homeowners facing production, real income and wholesale- you did you would “withdraw” the foreclosure whose equity is lost to the retail sales. be faced with large equity from your banks. It doesn’t matter if you own 10% early withdraw house now while The financial world got nervous on January or 90% of your house if you miss several 4th when one of their major indicator penalties and taxed things are good. mortgage payments your lender has unemployment went up to 5 percent. on top of that? Once you have your the legal right to foreclose. Why give This is not a serious amount because the Well there is one equity separated your bank your house and thousands average unemployment calculated over source you can from your house the last several years has been 6% but, draw from. That’s you could then put of dollars in equity as a gift? We may go the sudden rise was an unsettling weight the equity from your it into a safe, liquid into a recession or the current stimulus against the other negative economic reports house. Your equity is like having your account that even gives you a rate of programs that the government are trying that came out in the last few weeks. own money tree. How can you prepare return. The funds would be there if you to enact may divert this direction. for a dramatic effect on your family such need them. Many individuals believe that There is an old joke economists use to Visit www.equityyourmoneytree.com as losing your job? You could wait to see if separating your equity from your house define the difference between recession to explore the powerful potential your and a depression. A recession is when you do lose your job and than ask a lending as an unnerving situation. However, it equity has for you. your neighbor loses his job. A depression institute for a loan. Unfortunately banks shouldn’t be and it is the only way you can is when you lose your job. Neither scenario and every mortgage house I know do not have it assessible when times are hard. Will you be prepared financially for is funny but, it does point out the serious lend money to individuals who have no The average home owner refinances his whatever happens in the next few months? impact of a possible recession will have resources to pay back the loan. Even if house every 3 to 5 years and according Call 727-808-5161 for your free consultation. Win a Free Smoothie on Tampa Bay Informer!

Who was misquoted below? The first 3 correct answers win! “Give me your 4 Hire, your entrepreneurship, your muddled passages yearning to be read with spree; send these, the under-advertised, to me; and I’ll print swift without a cramp and you’ll be beholden evermore.” Hint: Sculpted as a Freedom Icon Email answers to: [email protected]

Page 4 – 727.230.9691 – TAMPA BAY INFORMER – To Advertise, Email: [email protected] – Visit www.tampabayinformer.com www.TheNaturalHealthAssociation.com President: Cary Goulston [email protected] (727) 488-7988

What is “The Natural Health Association”? by Cary Goulston

he Natural Health Association is a and educate you on the natural solutions group of natural health practitioners available to you. Tand professionals aligned and You can also join the Natural Health working together to provide natural health Association. We have many benefits to solutions to the public as an alternative our members and more are coming. Just to needless drugs and surgery. go to our website: We are here to provide information and reso- www.thenaturalhealthassociation.com urces to help people live happier, healthier lives. Our website is one source for you. It is possible to live a healthier and happier Go to www.thenaturalhealthassociation.com existence without taking desperate and and check out our member directory, destructive measures, or putting harmful where you meet all manner of natural toxins in one’s body. health practitioners and professionals We are here to help you. offering a wide range of natural services Cary Goulston and products. President While on our website, listen to our Natural Health Association radio shows or read articles from our 727 488 7988 members, which will further enlighten [email protected]

Rule by Fear To Vaccinate Or Not To Vaccinate, Part V by Valerie J.

ow would you like to be summoned Report documents that the number of alternatives.” Call 727- 449-8080 for this Vaccination is a medical procedure that to report at the local court house diseases we vaccinate against---Polio, data in volume 11, issue 1, Vaccinations carries a risk of injury or death and is Hwith your children and hold them diphtheria, tetanus, pertusses, DPT and – Help or Harm? performed on a healthy individual. It still while they were forcibly vaccinated? measles – had dramatically declined To reduce lawsuits, the National Childhood would be the greatest injustice to require And how would you act, if on arriving, prior to the implementation of any of Vaccine Injury Act of 1986 was a landmark vaccination by law, knowing that some you were herded into the courthouse with these vaccines. In recent years, major vaccine safety and compensation law passed children will be permanently brain- 1,600 other “non-compliant parents” by outbreaks of measles and pertusses have by Congress after 5 years of effort by the damaged or even die as a result, and armed guards and attack dogs? occurred in fully-vaccinated populations National Vaccine Information Center, the then to single out these children and Would the “choice” of up to ten days in jail of children. American Academy of Pediatrics, and several or a fifty dollar fine for every day your child You will be relieved to discover that you vaccine manufacturers. Then on November their parents by taking away their right was out of compliance silence any thought don’t have to subject your child to the 13 2002, the Homeland Security Bill was to common law protection and the right of protest or would you demand evidence possibility of the very real dangers that passed. The last four sections of the bill to go to court. That is hardly real justice. that you were breaking the law? have occurred by the thousands throughout (1714-1717) shielded the pharmaceutical Indeed! Wouldn’t you consider it a clear Would you dare argue that your sobbing the world: ADHD, violently aggressive industry from lawsuits caused by FDA violation of Human Rights? child was allergic to ethylene behavior, serious allergies, autism, approved vaccines, such as mercury Why would we, the People, tolerate brain damage and death. glycol, a vaccine ingredient, and containing pediatric vaccines associated this violation of our rights? Or in the a main ingredient in antifreeze? Dr. J. Decuypere reports: In one study with the development of autism. Maryland case – tolerate such a violation Would you insist that you parents were asked to specifically Seeking fewer lawsuits, Physician of parental consent? should be permitted to call your observe any changes in their child’s organizations and vaccine manufacturers Presidential Candidate Dr. Ron Paul attorney? Would you back-up behavior or physical condition after asserted this would help ensure the your neighbor’s complaint that a vaccination. Only 7% stated ‘no availability of vaccines and result in reduced states the reason succinctly. her eldest daughter’s autism was reactions at all’, from which one can prices. Parents fought hard to have to “The Fear Factor. When people are fearful, caused by her first vaccination? deduce that 93% of the children had have safety provisions as part of the law they tend to be willing to surrender their Relax! These are not loaded some reaction to the shot. in an effort to prevent other children from rights. Thus Fear is a threat to national questions from the latest psychiatric “It is vital”, she says, “to study your suffering a vaccine injury or death. liberty. The psychology of fear is an parent-screen quiz but important state’s exemptions and to seek out natural In an effort to help parents make better essential component of those who would questions you should ask of informed decisions doctors are required to have us believe we must increasingly rely organizations such as The National provide parents with written information on the elite who manage the apparatus Vaccine Information Center, prior to delivering vaccinations. The (www.NVIC.org), 703-938-0342, of central government”. Federal Government is required to Vaccine Liberation, (www.vaclib.org) “The statement, ‘Those who would promote the improvement of existing and Parents Requesting Open Vaccine give up Essential Liberty to purchase a vaccines and the development of safer Education, (www.vaccineinfo.org). vaccines; so fewer children would suffer little Temporary Safety deserve neither For more information documented adverse effects.. Liberty nor Safety’ has been attributed by scientific research go to to Benjamin Franklin. It is clear people (www.NMAseminars.com), In the past 10 years autism has increased seek out safety and security when they 440-239-3438. by 500% in most states, and some parents associate their child’s autism with an MMR are in a state of fear, and it is the result of Dr. Sherri Tenpenny, author, vaccine reaction or with Thimerosol, a this psychological state that often leads lecturer and foremost preservative used in some vaccines for authority on vaccinations to the surrender of liberty.” many years. Thimerosol is a mercury says, “A growing number of Play it safe. Call Clearwater Herbs for derivative (a known neurotoxin which kills parents are reconsidering tested pure quality products to boost braincells) used in killed and recombinant and questioning, not only your immune system. if vaccines are safe but if vaccines to prevent the growth of bacteria www.clearwaterherbs.com they are even necessary…The in multi-dose vials. International Mortality Statistics Why do we need to preserve the right 727- 449- 0772 to bring a lawsuit? 1215 Drew St. #B-8 Clearwater, 33755

Visit www.tampabayinformer.com – To Advertise, Email: [email protected] – TAMPA BAY INFORMER – 727.230.9691 – Page 5 Poetry

Ballroom of Freedom

Martinis & Matisse Additionally, long time artist Raquel Egosi Last night in my dream Continued from front page donated her painting “Gold Mine”. She ...the social event, I was finally able to relax. I engaged in painting 15 years ago in Brazil you danced in forever began to lay aside my journalistic plans allowing and studied with world-renown painter myself to get caught up in the enjoyment of Tran Tho and stated that throughout the ballroom of freedom. the event and report from the experience. years she’s developed a unique method of her own, utilizing pigments and alcohol. Her work features amazing abstract images You laughed and sang, in vivid colors with pleasing combinations of shades and special effects. To see lifting your gypsy wife, more of her creations and give thanks to her contribution, visit her website: kissing her into mirth. www.RaquelEgosi.com. Sincere thanks and commendations go out to: Onlookers were beguiled. • 2008 Honorary Chair Persons, entrepreneur Your happiness smiled and philanthropist Fred Fisher and lovely wife Aleta Fisher, who care deeply Friendly Bonefish Grill staff during the event my dream to life. about the community and support the My first order of business was to partake Clearwater Free Clinic. in the refreshment. I was delighted with • Special guest artist Sophie Matisse, the the wide assortment of tasty food, desserts great granddaughter of . and beverages provided by the eager and smiling staffs of Bonefish Grill, Outback • The 460 patrons who attended. Steakhouse, Carrabba’s Italian Grill, Guppy’s • 105 participating artists & 5 galleries. on the Beach, E&E Steakout Grill, Marlin • Participating restaurants & food vendors. Darlin Grill, Salt Rock Grill, Mecca Café, Bella Vino and Incredible Edibles. Momentarily • Frank and Brenda Crum of the satisfied, I moved on to the next goal; to FrankCrum™ family-owned and run win a prized piece of art. staffing agency. Just when I thought my senses couldn’t It is my summation that this benefit was a be further delighted, my attention became success for all involved and set an example riveted on the incredible array of artwork of what can be accomplished when the donated by the 120 participating artists and community unites for a common purpose. Stazja McFadyen galleries. Moving along with the enthusiastic Make sure to contact the Jeannie Shapiro at shoulder-to-shoulder crowd that included the Clearwater Free Clinic to get involved © 1998, 2008 Stazja McFadyen Congressman Gus Bilirakis, I observed in next year’s event. www.artistsinactionint.org/artists_directory/poets.htm attendees viewing each displayed piece of – Angela LeMay art and dropping their lottery tickets into the corresponding oversized martini glasses stationed on pedestals. I followed suit and deposited my tickets into my favorites’ glasses with much anticipation. It was with pleasure that I had the opportunity to meet with two of the participants, both from Israel, but excelling in different artistic mediums: Sculptor, Ofra Friedman donated her remarkable piece, “Contemporary Dance I” formed in wire mesh. You can find out more about Ofra in this month’s Local Artist Spotlight.

Page 6 – 727.230.9691 – TAMPA BAY INFORMER – To Advertise, Email: [email protected] – Visit www.tampabayinformer.com Presenting the Presenters Association of Performing Artist Presenters (APAP) makes HUGE IMPACT at recent New York City annual convention. by Joe Yazbeck

his was my first visit to this large “The Role Of Global Music In Geopolitical many venues world-wide. Dorothy is now enjoying gathering of hundreds of agencies, Diplomacy” co-hosted by Global Music Tampa is fortunate to have success through her well T producers, promoters, presenters Group, Ozomatli and an international him here. written and performed and schools representing and supporting group called Search For Common Ground Clearwater resident and 22 one-woma n show, performing artists across the spectrum which promotes itself with the purpose Platinum Award-winning “Good Lessons from of music, theater, dance, comedy, etc. of “transforming the way the world deals Universal Singer/Songwriter Bad Women”. Tampa Bay throughout the world. After attending with conflict”. It was not surprising in that David Pomeranz who hopes to see her perform this major event at The New York Hilton it was the largest attended. What raised a is currently enjoying a here soon. Hotel, it inspired me to tell you what I very agreeable eyebrow was the focus on successful concert tour During this 4 day discovered. how music and theater have become a tool across the US with his new convention, I visited And so I begin with what was a remarkable of cultural diplomacy where artists reach “Charlie Chaplin, A Life In with many other groups first day of conferences held throughout across the cultural and political divides and Concert” showing at the representing the wide these spaces that brought hundreds to synchronize musical and political goals Metropolitan Room in New spectrum of Broadway each conference with articulate and with a nation’s foreign policy; in a sense, York that weekend. touring companies, insightful panel discussions on important how the arts become an undeniable tool booking agencies, one in reducing struggle, conflict, and strife I highly recommend that David Pomeranz and timely topics such as, “The Keys To you see this concert which 22 Platinum Award-winning person shows, tribute amongst and between nations. Universal Singer/Songwriter Effective Dialogue with Your City & Local in a journey of tremendous productions, classical Government”, given by the executive It was from this conference I began imagination, warmth and power, David music, children’s theater, dance companies producer of “Celebrate Brooklyn” which to understand the focus that this Pomeranz portrays, through his musical to world music and theater. Discovering an outlined that locality’s key effective points convention was promoting and the societal score, the brilliant and complex life story excitement ignited by purpose with each in presenters and artists collaborating responsibilities that are clearly put on of Charlie Chaplin. booth I visited, I felt like an exhilarated kid in successful relationships to provide presenters of performing artists. at an amusement park thirsting for more communities with what they really need • Next Show Opens: April 10, 2008 -April time to experience all that interested me. This convention was abuzz with hundreds 13, 2008 performance-wise. of creatively adorned booths with producers, As a catalyst of an artistic renaissance, Hot topics covered in an always needed promoters, agents and presenters displaying • Location: Maxwell C. King Center for the presenting the presenters at this convention subject, ”Rising To The Challenge: The their rosters of artists and shows from Performing Arts Melbourne, FL 32935 was in itself like an artistic wave that I Future Of Arts Marketing” provided by around the globe. Even our Tampa Bay • Tickets & Info: 321-242-2219 sincerely expect will continue to build and the Dir. of Marketing area was represented www.theatermania.com make its aesthetic mark on the world. & Communications, by the following Author, actress It certainly says to performing artists and Performing Arts exhibitors and artist and producer, writers everywhere to continue creating Center of Maryland, whom I had the Dorothy Leeds, and performing…you have presenters brought fully into pleasure of meeting who I met many purposed and prepared to give you view fresh research and speaking with: years ago when I audiences! on audiences and Fou nder Cra ig had the fortune new and better Joe Yazbeck Hankenson of the of using her approac he s to Arts Reporter & Editorial Writer Tampa-based group, bestselling book, marketing the arts, Tampa Bay Informer “Producers Inc.”, who “Power Speak” resulting in full [email protected] represents over 1,000 to help create my houses at venues. 727-489-2349 artists culminating college curriculums The conference over a 27-year and professional which pleasantly period and bringing Craig Hankenson and Christopher Brooks training programs. Dorothy Leads surprised me was, of Producers Inc. entertainment to and Joe Yazbeck

Local Artist Spotlight for February – Ofra Friedman DO YOU KNOW AN ARTIST WHO SHOULD (Continued from front page) ...and technique, Ofra started working in magazines such as The Tampa Bay BE FEATURED ON THE MONTHLY with steel and copper wire mesh in her and The Performing Artist Magazines. studio in Florida. She also collaborated Currently Ofra lives in Florida with her with a glass artist to incorporate wire LOCAL ARTIST SPOTLIGHT? husband and two children, and works mesh with glass. out of her studio in Clearwater. She is an Email [email protected] In 1999, she exhibited wire mesh active member of the artists’ organization sculptures in Indian shores, Florida. “Artist in Action International” whose Since then she has taken part in purpose is “To imbue our culture with various group exhibitions including life through art”. two solo exhibitions, received multiple commissions and sold over [email protected] 30 sculptures. Her work was published (727) 460-9266

Florida’s most progressive artist organization is celebrating its first anniversary! In the past year, our group has held or sponsored over a dozen events and exposed our artists, their art and talent to the general public thorugh the media and at street locations. We are an all-media group that welcomes artists of all disciplines who seek to advance in their art and become involved in the culture and the aesthetic issues of the planet. Become a Member! We meet every Sunday! Check out our website: www.artistsinactionint.org or call (727) 461-2039 “Leaves and Lives II”, wire mesh sculpture by Ofra Friedman

Visit www.tampabayinformer.com – To Advertise, Email: [email protected] – TAMPA BAY INFORMER – 727.230.9691 – Page 7 It’s All About The Marketing Brunswick's fancy supermarkets have an automatic water mister to keep the produce fresh. Just before it goes on, you hear the sound of distant thunder and enjoy the smell of fresh rain. When you approach the milk cases, you hear cows mooing and witness the scent of fresh hay. When you approach the egg case, you hear hens cluck and cackle and the air is filled with the pleasing aroma of bacon and eggs frying. The veggie department features the smell of fresh buttered corn. I don't buy toilet paper there any more.

Page 8 – 727.230.9691 – TAMPA BAY INFORMER – To Advertise, Email: [email protected] – Visit www.tampabayinformer.com “Special” Education… Education or Medication? Guest Editorial by Ms. Laurie Anspach, Mental Health Activist and Executive Director of Citizens Commission on Human Rights of Florida

the child, is the referral to a psychiatrist to usurp the parental role? In addition, may be permanent and may adversely for the prescribing of psychiatric drugs. it has often been psychiatric intervention affect the child’s subsequent academic and These psychiatric drugs are at the height which has actually led to more harm social progress. For instance, access to of controversy in the newspapers across than good. psychiatric diagnoses by college admission the nation. FDA warnings placed on these departments may result in individuals All psychiatric drugs have serious side drugs include side effects of hallucinations, being rejected for college admission on effects, and we are now finding that mania, suicidal ideation, aggression, heart the basis of prior abnormal stimulants can lead to psychosis and mania attacks and sudden death. evaluations. This and anti-depressants now carry black box effect may also IDEA has been revised many times over warnings about the potential for suicidal apply to private the years. The most recent amendments thought. By informed consent, parents high schools. were passed by Congress in December can know the necessary information to 2004, with final regulations published make an appropriate choice about their in August 2006. So, in some senses, the children’s well being.” Dan Edmunds, law is very new, even as it has a long, D.ED, Psychologist detailed, and powerful history. If a parent gets a parental consent form, The changes that were made in 2004, regarding special education, they need address the issue of Parental Consent. For to know, per the 2004 changes, that the any parent who has gotten a “permission school needs to make “reasonable” efforts Who is there to protect the information slip” from their child, you will understand to obtain the parents consent. obtained in psychiatric tests, and guarantee that these permission slips or parental hildren are being placed in “Special confidentiality? Such confidentiality will consent forms, are typically given to you by Regarding parental consent for re- Education” under a number of be very difficult to maintain. your child, for a field trip, a special event evaluations (translated, this means if Cdifferent categories. The Federal the school wants to re-evaluate your child Permanent stigmatization of a child with a at school, or for disciplinary reasons, and regulation, that determines who gets psychiatric diagnosis may occur. This label is something you usually get when you for Special Education): “if a parent refuses placed in Special Education classes and will follow the child throughout his life. are running around at home, trying to to consent to a re-evaluation, the public what type of education they are entitled Even if the problem is addressed, treated make dinner, get the kids to school, get agency may, but is not required to, pursue to, is the Individuals Disabilities Education and cured (for example, through physical yourself to work, etc. Permission slips or the re-evaluation by using the consent Act. (IDEA). and medical testing that reveals a bona- parental consent forms are something that override procedures”. This emphasizes fide medical condition), the stigma of the The IDEA was originally enacted by should be read, thoroughly, and at times, the reasons why it is important for the diagnosis is likely to remain indefinitely. Congress in 1975 to make sure that children with a magnifying glass. Do not skip parents to take an active role in their Such is the case throughout the world with disabilities had the opportunity to through these forms, as often they are a child’s education. Stay involved, stay in of medicine with diagnoses such as receive a free appropriate public education, parental consent form for an “intervention touch with the teachers and counselors manic depressive disorder, diabetes just like other children. When one thinks of program”, mental health questionnaire, and see how your child is progressing. mellitus, coronary artery disease, and “disabilities”, one may think of a physical or for special education. You, as a parent, This will prevent any type of override hypertension.” handicap or impairment that requires need to be fully informed about your of your own intentions for your child’s Allan Sosin, MD more Teacher/Student supervision in child’s education. Your basic human education. Florida schools must be required to order to ensure a full education for the right of being fully informed is vital to Also, that in order for a school “to meet comply with IDEA and fully inform student. Yet, over the last few decades, the future of your child’s education, their the reasonable efforts requirement to parents of all of the consequences, risks “disabilities” has grown to mean a lot future jobs and their overall well-being. obtain informed parental consent for and alternatives to exceptional student more than that. Times have changed, and mental health an initial evaluation, initial services, or is a factor in public education. evaluation for emotional, behavioral The definition of a child with a disability a re-evaluation, a public agency must and learning disabilities and “other is “with mental retardation, hearing “There has been no objective criteria document its attempts to obtain parental impairments”, including the predictable impairments (including deafness), speech or established for any disorder listed in consent...” outcome of that evaluation – psychotropic language impairments, visual impairments the Diagnostic Statistical Manual IV The schools have the open door to watch medication. and the National Institute of Mental (including blindness), serious emotional out for disciplinary problems on campus, Health Consensus Conference on ADHD “Without question the testing will lead to disturbance, orthopedic impairments, tardiness, skipped classes, or generally, acknowledged that as of yet there is no a recommendation or insistence on drug autism, traumatic brain injury, other “insufficient” progress by the student. diagnostic test that is objective and the therapy for many children. This would be health impairments, or specific learning You, as the parent, can watch over your conception of this being a neurological a dangerous situation. Therefore there is disabilities”. (TITLE 20 , CHAPTER 33, child’s progress and understand what entity has not been delineated. However, no control whatsoever on the use of drugs SUBCHAPTER I , § 1400 ) Each of the the school is looking at. For instance, 6,000,000 American children have received for emotional or psychiatric abnormalities. “other health impairments or learning per the 2004 changes in IDEA “...a child this diagnosis and are given Schedule II It is well known that children initiated on disabilities”, carry with them, a label that has a specific learning disability if the amphetamine drugs to ‘treat’ this highly psychiatric medications are maintained is placed on the child; labels that will child does not achieve adequately for subjective ‘disorder’. There has been on those medications indefinitely, and follow your child into adulthood. the child’s age or to meet State-approved the argument that providing parental children may be subject to such drug use, The original intention of IDEA is to help grade-level standards in one or more of informed consent will lead to children possibly compelled to such drug use, in ensure that all children have a good not being properly ‘diagnosed.’ We should eight areas (e.g., oral expression, basic adult life.” education. This is something that most then ask- who is then to assume control reading skill, etc.)” Allan Sosin, M.D. parents would agree with. Unfortunately, over the lives of children? Who intends “From a psychiatric standpoint this labeling Citizens Commission on Human Rights the categories of “other health impairments, of Florida is a non-profit watchdog or specific learning disabilities” have organization dedicated to eradicating opened the door to the bogus diagnoses psychiatric abuse and raising public that are voted into existence and itemized awareness of the facts about the field in the “Diagnostic Statistical Manual” of mental health. For more information (psychiatry’s bible). about your rights or the harmful effects With the categories of “other health of psychiatric drugs, call our Hotline at impairments, or specific learning 800-782-2878. disabilities” we have walked ourselves into an age in which children (as young as toddlers) can be diagnosed, without medical evidence of having any disorder, and labeled and placed in the Special Education classes. Once, a bright, creative, intelligent and independent child, who perhaps is “too much of a handful” for most teachers and school counselors, is now considered “other health impaired”. Following the diagnosing and labeling of

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Palm Harbor fire fighters demonstrate donated rescue jacks.

The Foundation was created by Robin and Chris Sorensen, Firehouse Subs’ founders, in 2005 to make their commitment to public safety a focus for the Clayton Miller, owner of Day’s Collision Painting & Repair Inc. company. in Palm Harbor volunteers his work to provide practice vehicles to local fire stations. Firehouse Subs and all who participated in the fundraising Deserve Special Thanks and Commendation for their Firehouse Subs Donates Lifesaving Rescue Jacks contribution to the community. Continued from front page Firehouse Subs, founded in Jacksonville, Fla., is a quick ...our restaurant has received from residents of Palm service restaurant chain that specializes in hot subs Harbor,” said Bill Schaefer. “The need for rescue jacks from the steamer. Firehouse Subs is recognized for for the fire department provided us with the privileged serving large portioned subs with premium meats and opportunity to show our gratitude by supporting our cheeses, steamed hot and placed atop fresh produce local fire department, which will in turn, help save on freshly baked, toasted bread. The restaurant lives and protect the community.” offers a family-oriented atmosphere, complete with The Firehouse Subs Public Safety Foundation, Inc., an authentic firefighter theme which celebrates the a 501 (c) (3) is dedicated to improving the life-saving founding family’s 200 years of firefighting service. capabilities of emergency services in communities For more information on Firehouse Subs, visit the served by Firehouse Subs by providing funding, website, www.firehousesubs.com. resources and support to public safety entities. - Staff Reporter

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