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PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS A PHOTOGRAPHIC PORTRAIT

PHOTOGRAPHY BY ROBERT LA FOLLETTE

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without written permission of the copyright owners. All images in this book have been reproduced with the knowledge and prior consent of the artists concerned and no responsibility is accepted by producer, publisher, or printer for any infringement of copyright or other- wise, arising from the contents of this publication. Every effort has been made to ensure that credits accurately comply with information supplied. First published in the United StatesPROPERY of America by: OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS Twin Lights Publishers, Inc. 8 Hale Street Rockport, Massachusetts 01966 Telephone: (978) 546-7398 http://www.twinlightspub.com

ISBN: 978-1-885435-92-7 ISBN: 1-885435-92-4

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PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS (jacket front) Sunshine Skyway Bridge

(jacket back, clockwise from top) Riverwalk on Hillsborough River,Ybor City TECO Trolley, and Safety Harbor Marina

(frontispiece) Pier 60 at sunset, Clearwater Beach

(opposite) Clearwater Memorial Causeway One of the most beautiful ways to get “from here to there” in the Tampa Bay region is the Clearwater Memorial Causeway.The elegant s-curved four-lane bridge with four piers spans the Intracoastal Waterway connecting downtownPROPERY Clearwater with OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS Clearwater Beach. Its greenways and scenic over- looks of the harbor make it a favorite venue for cyclists and pedestrians.

Book design by: SYP Design & Production, Inc. www.sypdesign.com

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Safety Harbor Marina INTRODUCTION PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS

With its gleaming skyscrapers against a surreal blue sky, encir- Due west of Tampa, on a sand-fringed, sun-dappled peninsula Just offshore, surrounded by tranquil waters teeming with dol- buildings. But it is impossible to put a common cultural finger- cled by expanses of green and shaded by tropical palms, the between Old Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico, are Clearwater, phins and manatees, are unspoiled barrier islands with sugary print on the region. Just north of Clearwater is a town where approach to the city of Tampa may invoke the awe and exhilara- spring home of the Philadelphia Phillies; and St Petersburg, home white stretches of sand that consistently top the lists of the Greek is the home language. Tarpon Springs, founded by Greek tion Dorothy felt at her first view of the Emerald City of Oz. Tampa of the Tampa Bay Rays and Tampa Bay Lightning. At the turn of world’s most perfect beaches. Some islands are accessible only by sponge fishermen, is the sponge fishing capital of the world. Ybor is a young and vibrant city with deep historic roots. Its bustling the 20th century, The Don CeSar Hotel, that legendary “pink wed- boat; others can be reached via bridges so stunning that they are City, the little town with the Cuban accent on the outskirts of financial and business center has lured major corporations from ding cake” on St. Pete Beach, and the Vinoy, in downtown St. attractions themselves. Tampa, once was the cigar capital of the world. the big northeastern cities and world capitals. The University of Petersburg, reigned among Florida’s glamorous Grande Dames. With the gift of abundant wildlife comes responsibility, and the Perhaps you’ve come to close a big business deal, or to while Tampa conducts its academic business beneath the dramatic The crème de la crème of American society wintered there and communities of Clearwater, St. Petersburg, Tampa and the region away the days under a beach umbrella. Maybe it’s your first visit, Moorish spires of what once was one of the world’s most lavish sailed, played croquet, and attended debutante balls. Restored to have risen to the challenge with expansive rescue and rehabilita- or if you’re really fortunate, you live here. Whatever has brought hotels. Tampa is, among other things, the Spring Training home of their original grandeur, both still rank among North America’s tion facilities that allow close encounters with rare and fascinating you to Tampa Bay, may Robert La Follette’s stunning photography the New York Yankees, the home of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, finest hotels. Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall hosts world-renowned wildlife. on these pages keep the memories fresh until you return. and the address of the world-class family adventure destination, performers; and St. Pete’s Salvador Dali Museum has the largest The people of the Tampa Bay region share many priorities, such Busch Gardens. collection of the artist’s works in existence. as their love of public art and preservation of priceless historic

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Delightfully Deco (opposite) Tampa City Hall (above)

An artful addition to Tampa’s sophisticated Doric columns and balustrades, terra cotta skyline is a colorful enclave of 1930s-era art detailing, and a clock tower add distinction deco condominiums in the Channelside to the stately 1915 municipal building area. Deco style is notable for its graceful designed for the City of Tampa by renowned curving lines, glass block, stainless steel, local architect M. Leo Elliott, who also neon colors, sunbursts, and other geometric designed the Cuban Club in Ybor City. patterns.

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Tampa Convention Center (pages 8–9) Riverwalk on Hillsborough River (above) Moon over Tampa (opposite)

The 600,000 square-foot Tampa Convention A $40 million project is underway to create The architecturally diverse skyscrapers of Center, surrounded by hotels, shops, restau- a downtown waterfront promenade along downtown Tampa are especially beautiful rants, entertainment venues, the cruise the Hillsborough River to connect hotels, when illuminated by city lights from below terminal, and the Florida Aquarium, makes offices, and the Tampa Performing Arts Cen- and a cloudless moonlit night above. Tampa one of Florida’s most desirable meet- ter with shops, restaurants, and attractions. ing destinations. The nightlife of Ybor City is Several parks along the 2.5-mile pathway a trolley ride away. provide excellent viewing spots for river and portside events.

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Thriving Financial Center (opposite) Lykes Gaslight Square Park (above)

Mirrored images of the Bank of America, Idyllic temperatures and lush green spaces Regions Bank, and Sun Trust buildings on make downtown Tampa a pleasant city to the dramatic glass panels of One Tampa City enjoy a box lunch or take a power walk dur- Center also reflect Tampa’s role as the finan- ing the business day. Something is always cial center of Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast. happening at Lykes Gaslight Square Park. When it was built in 1981, the gleaming 38-story One Tampa City Center was Tampa Bay’s tallest skyscraper.

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Trio of Museums and Gardens (top and bottom) Solstice (opposite)

Outdoor sculpture, like Wandering Spirit by The Heritage Museum preserves the region’s Standing 28 feet high in swirls of stainless sculptor, John Henry (above), landscapes, cultural heritage through historic buildings steel at the Bank of America Tower, the history, and art make a compatible trio on dating back to pioneer days. The Florida dynamic sculpture, Solstice, by Charles O. the adjacent grounds of the Florida Botani- Botanical Gardens surround the two muse- Perry, reflects not just the sun and city cal Gardens, the Gulf Coast Museum of Art, ums with native and exotic flora and fauna lights but also the commitment of Tampa and the Heritage Museum. The Gulf Coast that emphasize the art and beauty of the and her citizens to public art. Museum of Art showcases the work of region. Florida artists and fine Southeastern crafts.

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Sacred Heart Catholic Church Bayshore Boulevard (top) MacDill Air Force Base (bottom)

Magnificent grand-scale Romanesque archi- Flanked on one side by Tampa Bay and on Since 1938, when it opened as a training tecture and old world detailing make the the other by gracious homes on meticulous- facility for World War II airmen, MacDill Air Sacred Heart Catholic Church, circa 1905, ly tended grounds, Bayshore Boulevard is the Force base has been an integral part of the one of Tampa’s finest historic buildings. route of the annual Gasparilla Pirate Invasion Tampa community. About 6,000 military The church, with its intricate stained glass parade and home to the world’s longest and civilian personnel work on the 5,000- windows, carrera marble altar, and 135-foot continuous sidewalk of 4.5 miles. It borders acre base just south of downtown Tampa. dome, hosts noonday tours once a month, the historic Hyde Park residential, shopping September through April. and dining district.

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Emerald City (pages 18–19) Legends Field (above) Monument Park, Tropical Style (top) VIP,Yankee Stadium (bottom)

With its gleaming skyscrapers against a sur- The spring home of the New York Yankees Yankees numbers 3 (Ruth), 7 (Mantle), 8 Among the newest features of the 10,000- real blue sky, encircled by expanses of green since 1996, the 31-acre Legends Field is (Berra), 37 (Stengel), 9 (Maris), 4 (Gehrig), and seat stadium is the Bright House Networks’ and shaded by tropical palms, the approach identical in field dimensions to Yankee ten other venerable numbers are engraved Dugout Club, an exclusive seating area and to the city of Tampa may invoke the awe Stadium. More than 200,000 fans flock to on the hearts of diehard Yankees fans. The lounge behind home plate and a 23-suite and exhilaration Dorothy felt at her first this field during spring training to watch owners of those 16 retired numbers are private club under the stands. The 31-acre view of the Emerald City of Oz. the Yankees warm up for the coming season. honored with plaques among the palm complex on Steinbrenner Drive also hosts trees at Tampa’s tropical version of Monu- winter fantasy camps with Yankee coaches ment Park in New York’s Yankee Stadium. and team members.

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Tampa Bay Downs And…They’re Off!

Kentucky Derby winners and trainers have The season for the “Sport of Kings” at Tampa raced and trained at Tampa Bay Downs. Bay Downs runs from December to May, Dating back to 1926, it is among the oldest with simulcasts on non-racing days, monthly and best maintained thoroughbred horse festivals, and more than $2.5 million in tracks in the United States and one of the stakes purses. Multi-taskers can practice most popular turf courses in North America. their golf swings or slip in a couple of rounds at the Silks Poker Room while waiting for the next race.

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University of South Florida (top) USF Sun Dome (bottom) A Leading Research University (opposite)

The new award-winning University of South Noted for its futuristic steel dome that soars USF serves more than 45,000 students on its Florida Intercollegiate Athletic Facility, with 115 feet above the arena floor, the USF Sun home campus of Tampa and on three other its dramatic green steel beams and reflective Dome is home to the South Florida Bulls campuses: St. Petersburg, Sarasota-Manatee, windows, is a focal point of the contempo- basketball and volleyball teams. The 55,000 and Lakeland. It is the ninth largest public rary USF campus. The space features state- square-foot arena, with a capacity of more university in the United States, and among of-the-art athletic training equipment, than 11,000 people, also hosts concerts and the top-ranked public research universities including an underwater treadmill. other events. in the country.

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University of Tampa (top) Sticks of Fire (bottom) Beneath the UT Dome (opposite)

Set on 100 acres of the most valuable and The Calusa Indians named this region Tampa, The south wing of Plant Hall, beneath the vibrant real estate on Tampa Bay, the meaning “Sticks of Fire”,in reference either to dome of the circa 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel, is University of Tampa is headquartered in the prevalence of quick-burning driftwood now a museum preserving the legacy of rail- what once was the glamorous Tampa Bay on area beaches, or the frequent phenome- road magnate Henry Plant. His glitzy hotel Hotel, dating back to Florida’s Gilded Age non of lightning that has earned Tampa Bay was a center of Florida’s winter social scene at the turn of the 20th century. The private the designation as the lightning capital of enjoyed by rich and famous guests, the liberal arts college serves approximately North America. The Sticks of Fire sculpture likes of Sarah Bernhardt, Teddy Roosevelt, 5,500 students in 48 buildings. by Stephanie Trip graces the UT campus. and Babe Ruth.

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Tampa Port Authority (top) Channelside Bay Plaza (bottom) Remember When (opposite)

Nearly one million passengers cruise in and An extra perk for cruise passengers is the In 1926, flashbulb-style movie lights were out of the Port of Tampa annually. Its com- adjacent Channelside Bay Plaza, the answer illuminated for the first time on the seven- bined passenger and cruise commerce to a last-minute shopper’s prayers. Also a story sign over Tampa’s glam new movie make it Florida’s largest port. Tampa offers popular nightspot for locals and land-side palace. During the 1950’s, children could see the most direct passenger routes to Mexico, visitors, Channelside offers casual and ele- a movie at Tampa Theatre for 25 cents and Latin America, and the Caribbean. Home- gant dining, entertainment, and events. six RC-Cola bottle caps. Nearly 80 years later, port lines include Carnival, Royal Caribbean, the restored landmark is a nostalgic venue and Holland America. for classic films, concerts, and special events.

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Weird Science MOSI at Night

Anyone who envisions science and industry The dramatically night-lighted IMAX dome as the stuff of dusty lecture halls hasn’t been offers tantalizing promise of the wonders to Tampa’s Museum of Science and Industry. within the walls of MOSI. Visitors can pedal MOSI is a dynamic, multi-sensory experience a bicycle across a one-inch steel high wire that transforms ordinary spectators into suspended 30 feet above the floor, step daredevils and wizards. The journey begins into a virtual hurricane, and examine the at the skeletal feet of a three-story-high craters of the moon in the state-of-the-art diplodocus dinosaur. planetarium.

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BioWorks Butterfly Garden (top) Florida Monarch (bottom) Tampa Museum of Art

MOSI’s BioWorks Butterfly Garden encom- The BioWorks Butterfly Garden rears only With an ever-expanding collection of fine passes the gardens and ponds of a natural butterflies native to Florida. The non-migrat- 20th-century art, contemporary work, and butterfly habitat and animal husbandry labo- ing Florida monarch butterfly varies slightly Greek and Roman antiquities, the Tampa ratory where guests can watch the butterfly from the migratory monarchs that fly each Museum of Art has outgrown its current life cycle from egg to adult. The engineered autumn from eastern North America to cen- facilities. Plans are underway for a spectac- ecosystem demonstrates nature’s own waste- tral Mexico. When a Florida monarch is at rest, ular new 120,000 square foot contemporary water cleaning capabilities as an alternative observers can tell the male from the female museum in Curtis Hixon Park on the to man-made wastewater treatment systems. by the black spots on the male’s lower wings. Hillsborough River.

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Union Station (top) Florida Avenue Postcard (bottom) Centennial Clock Keep (opposite)

Since 1912, when boxcars took loads of citrus The largest postcard in Tampa Bay is the Sculptor William Culbertson designed the north, and passenger cars brought wintering beloved Carl Cowden mural at the corner clock tower at Union Station to depict cul- socialites south, the Italian Renaissance train of Florida Avenue at Royal Street. Within the tural and historical symbols of Tampa Bay’s depot has been an important Tampa gate- letters spelling TAMPA are historic scenes golden age of rail travel. The capstone at the way. After a 20-year slide into disrepair, the and present-day landmarks, including the top resembles the tower that once housed venerable old station was restored in 1998. Sulfur Springs water tower, a minaret rising the watchman who operated the crossing It now is a stop on Amtrak’s Silver Service from The University of Tampa campus, and gate. Union Station is listed on the National between Miami and New York. an Ybor City streetcar. Register of Historic Places.

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Restoring the Fenway Henry B. Plant Museum

In the 1920s, the Fenway Hotel, overlooking A Moorish keyhole entry and Victorian ginger- Caladesi Sound, was the pride of Dunedin. bread trim welcome visitors to Plant Hall, the Her prominent guests played croquet and southeast wing of Henry B. Plant’s opulent tennis and attended teas and dances. Since 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel. The historic landmark the1960s, it has been the campus of two col- hotel now is the cornerstone building of leges, and, in 2007, the “Once Grand Lady of the University of Tampa. The Henry B. Plant the Bay” was purchased by a private preser- Museum in Plant Hall preserves and displays vationist/investor with plans for restoration. artifacts from the hotel’s glamour days.

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U.S. Coast Guard Rescue (top) Boating Safety (bottom) Sulphur Springs Water Tower (opposite)

The U.S. Coast Guard conducts some of its In addition to its rescue operations, the local The 214-foot tall tower was built in 1927 for most intense training operations in Tampa Tampa unit gives classes in boating safety. the Sulphur Springs Hotel and Arcade, Bay. The elite team in the bright red and According to U.S. Coast Guard statistics, where the wealthy came to partake of the white helicopters and boats are prepared every day its National Boating Safety Division “miraculous healing waters.” After falling to respond to toxic spills, storm rescue, and saves 10 lives, assists 192 people in distress, into disrepair, it found new life in the 1970s vessels that have run aground. The Tampa protects $2.7 million in property, seizes 475 as a drive-in theater, and recently as the unit was involved in saving lives in the after- pounds of illegal drugs worth $10 million, focal point of the City of Tampa’s new River math of Hurricane Katrina. and investigates 6 vessel casualties. Tower Park.

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Tampa Performing Arts Center American Victory Museum

From Broadway and grand opera to rock theaters, a performing arts conservatory, One of only two 534 Victory merchant concerts and symphonies, the world class and a rehearsal hall, as well as boutiques marine cargo ships still sailing, American performing arts center, in downtown Tampa, and restaurants. Victory was commissioned during World claims the title of the largest such facility War I, the Korean War and Vietnam. It now south of New York’s Kennedy Center. In its is a floating museum featuring collections two-decade history, it has logged an audi- of weaponry, uniforms and artifacts. A tour ence count of ten million people. Tampa of the ship includes the flying bridge, Bay Performing Arts Center consists of five wheelhouse, and more.

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Columbia Restaurant Crafted in Spain (top) Hand-Rolled Cigars (bottom)

Acclaimed traditional Spanish cuisine, including Thought to be the world’s largest Spanish Ybor City, one of Florida’s two Historic Land- tapas, wines, and sherries are just part of the restaurant, the Columbia is an architectural mark Districts, was founded by Cuban cigar early 20th-century ambience of the Hernandez- treasure of hand-painted tiles, heavy chande- makers who left Key West for a better life. At Gonzmart family restaurant that has grown liers, ancient wrought iron, and wood detailing its heyday, Ybor City and neighboring Tampa to seven locations throughout Florida. The crafted in Spain. Cervantes’ larger-than-life had 140 cigar factories. Today in Ybor City a Old World period architecture and nightly fictional knight-errant, Don Quixote, and his handful of cigar shops still offer hand-rolled flamenco shows make dining in the Ybor sidekick, Sancho Panza, are depicted in intri- cigars, often made by the great grandchil- City restaurant a cultural trip back in time. cate tilework on the building’s façade. dren of the founders.

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Ybor City Museum (top) TECO Trolley (bottom) Honoring Immigrants (opposite)

The neighborhood Ferlita Bakery was opened Late 1800s cigar workers took electric street- Noted Tampa bronze sculptor, Steven Dickey in 1896 by Sicilian immigrant Francisco cars to their factory jobs. Later, families rode was commissioned to create the poignant Ferlito and operated by his descendants them downtown to baseball games. Sadly, statue of an immigrant family in Ybor City’s until Ybor city fell onto hard times in the the streetcar bells clanged for the last time Centennial Park to honor the men and 1970s. The bakery building was acquired by after World War II, remaining silent until the women who came to this country in search the Florida State Park Service and restored TECO line opened with fanfare in 2002, con- of personal freedom, economic opportunity, as part of the Ybor City Museum complex necting downtown Tampa, Channelside, and a future of hope for their families. celebrating the city’s ethnic heritage. and Ybor City.

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Ybor City Lights (above) Centro Ybor (opposite)

The reflections of old-fashioned street lamps The Cuban-themed Muvico Centro Ybor and and vibrant neon signs from the clubs, the restored historic Centro Ybor building restaurants, and boutiques of Ybor city also set the tone for Ybor’s all-inclusive entertain- reflect the energy of a revitalized historic ment complex, which includes restaurants, district. Weekdays are tranquil, as though shops, clubs, and 20 movie screens. the city is resting up for the young Friday and Saturday night revelers.

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Casitas (left) Don Vicente Martinez Ybor (right) Cuban Immigrant Mural

Tiny three-room “shotgun” houses—so named In 1885, Spanish-American industrialist and Sociedad La Union Marti-Maceo, named for because the central hallway would allow a cigar magnate Don Vicente Martinez Ybor its founders, Jose Marti and General Antonio bullet to pass from the front door to the back turned swampland into a factory town that Mateo, was a club for Afro-Cuban cigar workers —housed the families of Cuban cigar work- would become the cigar capital of the who migrated to Ybor City in the early 1900s. ers in the 1880s. Seven of the original casitas, world. He also built the first casitas in antici- Current members include multi-generational with their gingerbread-trimmed porches, pation of the more than 3,000 workers who descendents of the original members. The have been relocated to 9th Avenue East as would arrive within the first year. The bronze colorful mural graces the side of the club part of the Ybor City Museum complex. statue is by Steven Dickey. building at 1226 La Septima (7th Avenue).

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Serengeti Express Ringtail Lemur (top) Myombe Reserve (bottom)

The bright green and red steam engine at The female-dominated troops of tree-dwellers Busch Gardens’ Myombe Reserve provides Busch Gardens, a replica of 1900s-era African are fun to watch as they savor their meals of the perfect opportunity to observe these trains, circles the two-mile perimeter of the fresh fruit and sun themselves in their habi- endangered knuckle-walking pan troglo- park’s African habitats. The open cars allow tat at Busch Gardens' Edge of Africa. dytes, which are native to West and Central unobstructed animal views and an excellent Africa. Geneticists say that the chimpanzee vantage point to observe the park’s world- is a human being’s closest living relative, famous mammoth coasters. sharing about 98 percent of our DNA.

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White Bengal Tiger (opposite) Endangered Zebra (top) Pink Flamingo (bottom)

The rare white Bengal tiger is the second Zebras live in harmony with giraffes, gazelles, The flamingo lagoon at Busch Gardens has largest cat in the world, with a possible impalas and other African species in a re- a population of more than 100 birds. Their weight of up to 450 pounds. They are created natural habitat on Busch Gardens’ long legs and bright pink feathers make a extremely beautiful with their blue eyes Serengeti Plain. A dramatic brown and white, colony of pink flamingoes among the most and chocolate stripes. These extraordinary Grevy’s Zebras are native to eastern Africa. photogenic bird scenes in the world. Their white tigers can be seen at Busch Gardens’ Once hunted for their beautiful skins, they coloring comes from the alpha and beta- Jungala. have become endangered in this carotene in the shrimp and other seafood century due to loss of habitat. in their diets.

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Ibis (left) Anhinga (right) Brown Anole (opposite)

Considered sacred in ancient Egyptian cul- Sometimes called water turkeys or snake Introduced to the U.S. from Cuba in the mid tures, ibis are recognizable by their orange birds because they submerge themselves 20th century, the anole is one of 36 species legs and long, curved bills which turn bright and swim with only their long necks out of of non-native lizards. Shy but gentle and red/orange during breeding season. Ibis the water, Anhingas must allow their feathers curious, anoles often allow humans to make an impressive sight feeding in groups to dry completely before they can fly. The get close enough to observe the tiny on wet grass, mangroves, and along the black birds with silver feather markings can wide footpads that allow them to cling seashore. The immature ibis is gray; the be spotted sunning themselves with out- to flat surfaces. adult is pure white. stretched wings on rocks and grassy areas.

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American Bald Eagle (opposite) Osprey (top) Red-Shouldered Hawk (above)

The American Bald Eagle is a large raptor Resembling, but not quite as large as the Lucky sightings of the graceful Red-shoul- with a wingspan of up to seven feet, talons American Bald Eagle, the osprey is a fish- dered Hawk typically occur near their wood- up to four inches long, and a diving speed eating raptor that often is seen nesting atop land habitats or over open water. This one of 100-plus miles per hour. These natural dead trees, power poles, and channel mark- was spotted on the fringe of the 8,500-acre hunters feed on fish, waterfowl, turtles, and ers. Boaters can see hatchlings in the nests Brooker Creek Preserve in the northeastern small mammals. They acquire their distinc- during the primary nesting season between corner of Pinellas County. Soaring on a 40- tive white head feathers at age five or six February and June. inch wingspan, the Red-shouldered Hawk years. hunts insects, small mammals, and reptiles.

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Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo (top) Mermaid or Elephant? (bottom) Dark Continent Experiences (opposite)

Though it started in the 1950s as a collection The shy, slow-moving West Indian Manatee, Those longing to get up close and personal of exotic animals, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is related to the elephant; and although she with white rhinos, African elephants, croco- now is a steward of endangered and threat- more closely resembles her common name, diles, and giraffes need never leave Tampa ened species, a habitat for regional wildlife, “sea cow,” drunken sailors of earlier centuries Bay. They can just check out Safari Africa at and a great place for kids to play in an animal- did mistake manatees for Sirens: sensuous Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo or Busch Gardens’ themed environment. The zoo’s 56 acres mermaid-like creatures from Greek mytholo- Edge of Africa, where they can hand-feed include shows, rides, and two water play gy whose songs lured ships to their doom giraffes from the back of an open vehicle. areas. on the rocks.

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Safari Africa Giving a Hoot

Enter the tunnel in Tampa and emerge on Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo has more than 2,000 the African continent, at Safari Africa, the animals in habitats and ecosystems ranging newest section of Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. from Penguin Beach to Primate World. Jeff Take a behind-the-scenes safari ride to com- the Zoo Guy, along with his team of Zoo mune with elephants, zebras, meerkats, and Ambassadors, is a regular on talk shows and more. After exploring Africa, an Australian- wildlife documentaries. Among Jeff’s favor- themed habitat awaits, where you can pet ites is the noisy-but-cute Barred Owl, also a stingray at the zoo’s Stingray Bay. known as the Hoot Owl.

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Diving with the Sharks (top) Dolphins in the Wild (bottom) Florida Aquarium

The Florida Aquarium provides shark cages There are more than 400 Atlantic bottlenose The penguins promenade twice daily at ten (for the people, not the sharks) plus SCUBA dolphins in Tampa Bay, and the Florida and three; kids can crawl into a giant hermit gear and personal dive masters for those who Aquarium’s 64-foot catamaran, Bay Spirit, crab shell; there’s the “no-bone-zone” to find dare to descend into this 93,000-gallon salt- takes up to 49 guests at a time into Tampa out what boneless sea creatures like sea water habitat, where tiger sharks, nurse sharks, Bay to see them in the wild. stars, crabs, and giant clams feel like, and zebra sharks, and black-tip reef sharks swim some honest to goodness sea dragons. with, among other creatures, giant green What more could a kid (of any age) want? turtles and large schools of yellowtail fish.

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Winter Lives Here (top) Trainer for a Day (bottom) Green Turtle (opposite)

The three-month-old female Atlantic bot- The Clearwater Marine Aquarium rescues Hundreds of female turtles (Loggerheads, tlenose dolphin was found entangled in a sick and injured animals, rehabilitates and Hawksbills, Kemps Riddles and Green Turtles crab trap with deep wounds, and partially releases most back to their natural habitats, like this one) return each year to the same destroyed tail. Winter was not expected to and permanently cares for those whose nesting spot on a beach in the Tampa Bay live, but with dedicated care , she’s now a injuries do not allow their safe release. CMA area to lay up to 200 eggs. The Clearwater thriving and beloved member of the CMA also offers animal and dolphin encounters, Marine Aquarium monitors nesting and family. Her plight and rescue caught the behind the scenes tours, and a “trainer for a hatch data, and offers an adopt-a-turtle pro- attention of the entire dolphin rescue world. day” program for kids ages 8 – 11. gram to help support the rescue missions.

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Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary (opposite) Tri-colored Heron (top) Reddish Egret (bottom)

Rescue and rehabilitation is the mission of Also known as the Louisiana Heron, the Tri- While the Reddish Egret comes by its name the Suncoast Seabird Sanctuary, the largest colored Heron is a more delicate version honestly, it’s just as likely that a hatchling in wild bird hospital and rehabilitation center of the Great Blue Heron. Its favorite state is the same nest will turn out white. Reddish in the U.S. At least 7,500 injured birds are Florida, where they are easy to spot Egrets catch their fish by spreading their admitted annually, with at least 600 in resi- throughout the Tampa Bay area. wings over the water to provide shade for dence at a time. The non-profit center is unsuspecting prey. supported entirely by donations, adoptions, and volunteer workers. Admission is free.

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Palm Gardens at Florida Botanical Yellow Jessamine (top) Water Lily (bottom)

More than 150 types of birds, mammals, The strong evergreen vine with the bright The exotic blooms of the water lily are at and reptiles have been documented at the yellow blossoms and shiny green leaves can their best upon opening in the early morn- Florida Botanical Gardens. The showcase be seen winding up trellises and around ing. Water lilies thrive especially well in the gardens and undisturbed habitats of wet- mailboxes all over Tampa Bay. But be still ponds at the Florida Botanical Gardens. lands, scrublands and forests, plus a gift warned: its lovely fragrance and beneficial shop and educational facilities, encompass use in hair products belies its poisonous 160,000 acres under the Florida Botanical nature. Gardens’ care. Admission is free.

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Florida Botanical Gardens (top) Bougainvillea (bottom) Pickerel Weed (opposite)

Rose, topiary, and palm gardens are just a Bougainvillea is an ever-present reminder of Captured by the lens at the Florida Botanical few of the stunning landscapes of the the joy of living in a semi-tropical environ- Gardens, this spiky blue relative of the water Florida Botanical Gardens, which provide ment. The vivid displays of red, purple, and hyacinth also grows abundantly in swamps, habitats for more than 150 types of wildlife orange blooms on lush vines are seen lagoons, ponds, and still wetlands through- species. The Tropical Fruit Garden showcases spilling over walls, draped over archways, out Florida’s Gulf Coast. the luscious papayas, mangos, bananas, citrus, and even trained as hedges and topiary. and other fruits that thrive in the subtropical climate of the Tampa Bay region.

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Clearwater Beach (top) Breakfast on the Beach (bottom) Pass-a-Grille (opposite)

The name of both the beach and the island This baby Black Skimmer has not yet gotten Despite its original fancy name of Passe aux it fringes, Clearwater Beach is just three miles its trademark black and white suit or the dra- Grilleurs (French for Pirate’s Pass) and its long and four blocks wide. The end-to-end matic red-banded bill and legs of its parents. proximity to the glamorous Don CeSar Hotel umbrellas, beach volleyball courts, water Black Skimmers lounge and play on beaches on St. Pete Beach, the Old Florida village of sports, concessions, and lounging sun- and dunes during the day and forage by Pass-a-Grille’s best claim to fame may be worshippers attest to the popularity of skimming shallow waters for small fish and the huge school of whales that beached this tiny island’s tranquil waters and soft crustaceans at dawn and dusk. themselves in 1946 and the gentle sea white sands. oats-covered dunes.

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Pier 60 Clearwater Beach

Among the prettiest and best-equipped fish- The meticulously-maintained Pier 60 Park ing piers in the Tampa Bay area, Pier 60 is at Clearwater Beach is among the region’s popular for morning strolls and mid-day favorite family spots for watersports, Frisbee- beach breaks. There is a food concession and tossing, sand castle-building, and napping a gift shop, and the pier affords panoramic in the shade of umbrellas. There are food views of Clearwater Beach. At day’s end, crowds concessions, a bait shop, and a covered gather for the Key West-style sunset celebra- playground on the sand. tion with jugglers, mimes, music, and food.

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Surfing on Gulf of Mexico (top) Seagull’s Eye View (opposite)

Despite its usually-tranquil waters, the Gulf of Crystal blue swimming pools, three miles of Mexico can surprise and delight surfers with walking beaches, and artful rows of palms in respectable breakers, especially in winter, sugary white sand lure vacationers year after from offshore east/northeastern winds; and year to the hotels and motels overlooking from the effects of summer storms originat- Clearwater Beach. ing in the Caribbean, as happened one recent summer day.

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Cleveland Street (opposite) City of Murals (above)

The splashy reds and yellows on this down- Commissioned by Friends of Clearwater, the town Clearwater building are sure to bring delightful mural depicting a pastoral smiles to the faces of those strolling down Mediterranean cottage scene at the corner Cleveland Street. Once the bustling center of Cleveland Street at Garden is an example of Clearwater, Cleveland Street’s recent of the public art that graces many Tampa $9 million downtown revitalization project Bay streetscapes. included public art, landscaping and pedestrian-friendly enhancements.

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White Queen of the Gulf Clearwater City Hall (top) Pinellas County Courthouse (bottom)

Just south of downtown Clearwater on the Clearwater’s City Hall, located directly across Built in 1918 in Classic Revival style, this Intracoastal Waterway, a grand old hotel from Pier 60 on Osceola Avenue, sponsors an gracious structure in Clearwater is the seat affectionately called The White Queen of aggressive program of public art and operates of government for Pinellas County, which the Gulf dates back to the days of luxury rail webcams from Clearwater Beach and Pier 60. occupies the large peninsula on the west travel and society debutante balls. Currently In addition to housing the city’s municipal side of Tampa Bay. The major towns in named the Belleview Biltmore, the old hotel offices, Clearwater City Hall is often the site Pinellas County are Clearwater, Largo, St. has been acquired by a preservationist/ of arts exhibitions and concerts sponsored Petersburg, and Tarpon Springs. developer with plans to restore it. by the Clearwater Arts Foundation.

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Island Hopping (top) Blueways (bottom) Captain Memo’s Pirate Ship (opposite)

Boaters have vast choices for spending an Both Hillsborough and Pinellas Counties If dastardly pirates, salty seadogs, and loud hour, a day, or a weekend on the water, from offer paddlers a vast system of Blueways: cannons firing from the deck of a “real”pirate the open Gulf of Mexico to sheltered bays specially mapped trails through creeks, rivers, ship weren’t excitement enough, kids get and rivers. Two nearby islands popular with bays, and estuaries. The calm waters around their own hats and goodies on Captain boaters are Caladesi Island, just west of the the Clearwater Memorial Causeway at Memo’s bright red, 125-passenger sightsee- Dunedin Causeway Bridge, and Honeymoon Dunedin make this area a favored passage ing ship, Pirate’s Ransom. There are sunset Island to the north of Caladesi. for kayakers. Canoes, kayaks, and full outfit- and sightseeing cruises and theme parties ting rentals are widely available. for adults too.

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John’s Pass Seafood and Pirate Invasions

Surprisingly little has changed over the years More than 100 restaurants and shops, offer- at this turn-of-the-20th century fishing vil- ing everything from ice cream and fresh lage on Madeira Beach between Clearwater seafood to fine crafts and kitschy treasures, and St. Petersburg. John’s Pass is still the are packed end-to-end in the village. Funky headquarters for a local fishing fleet, as well “Old Florida” weekend festivals lure huge as parasailing and other watersports vendors. crowds, as do the annual October John’s Pass Seafood Festival, and the John Levique Pirate Invasion each June.

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Hillsborough River Park (opposite) Basking Turtle (top) Alligator (bottom)

One of Florida’s first state parks, this natural Commonly called the Cooter Turtle, these Alligator sightings can occur anywhere reserve includes several ecosystems, includ- little guys prefer the still waters of ponds there’s a body of fresh or brackish (part salt, ing oak hammocks, wetlands trails, the river, and backwaters, and can be most often seen part fresh) water: marshlands, lakes, rivers, and even Florida-style “rapids.” The park offers either sunning themselves on rocks or float- swamps, ponds; even golf course water canoe and kayak rentals, fishing, camping, ing with just their heads breaking the water. hazards. How to tell an alligator from a and picnic sites. Photo opportunities abound, Cooters average less than 12 inches long. crocodile? Gators have broad, short snouts; including the replica of a fort from the crocs have long, sharper snouts and their Second Seminole War and a wooden bridge. teeth show when the mouth is closed.

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Sunset on Honeymoon Island

Hog Island, as the pioneers named it, just didn’t seem right for one of the most pris- tine, romantic islands on the Gulf of Mexico, so an ambitious developer changed it to Honeymoon Island. Now a Florida State Park, the best-kept secret has miles of shelling beaches, a virgin forest, a vast bird population, and a new nature center.

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Fireworks (above) Greek Fishing Village (opposite)

Dozens of 4th of July and New Year’s Eve Around the turn of the last century, a mother fireworks extravaganzas take place all over lode of natural sponge was discovered in the Tampa Bay region. Among the largest is the Gulf of Mexico, and Greek sponge fisher- the one launched from the Clearwater men migrated from the exotic Dodecanese Memorial Causeway. The water magnifies Islands to settle in the little town of Tarpon the heart-racing sound of each explosion, Springs. Today, the docks along the Anclote and the brilliant colors are visible for miles. River still exude the ambience of an Old World Greek sponge-fishing village.

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Sponge Capital of the World (top) Shopping for Sponges (bottom) The Yachting Life (opposite)

A larger-than-life bronze statue at the docks Along with the swarthy fishermen, whose With its sheltered and open-water boating on the Anclote River honors the first Greek descendants still speak the native tongue, venues, year-round sunshine, and more than sponge fishermen who arrived in Tarpon came authentic Greek bakeries, coffee shops, enough wind to fill the sails—both practically Springs a century ago. By the 1930s, Tarpon and handicrafts, which still lure visitors today, and spiritually—the Tampa Bay area is a Springs had become the sponge fishing not just to buy natural sponges, but also to mariner’s dream. The hundreds of charter capital of the world, and it holds that title sample the rich Tarpon Springs culture. companies and brokers, spectacular boat today. shows, and waiting lists for slips at the marinas prove the point.

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Clearwater Marina (top) Along the Intercoastal Waterway (bottom) Sunfish Sailing (opposite)

The 220-slip Clearwater Municipal Marina, The Gulf Coast of Florida’s blue skies, aqua- One needn’t have a yacht to experience the across from Pier 60, is home to the largest marine waters, and gentle seaside lifestyle exhilaration of sailing. Sunfish and Sailfish, fishing fleet on the west coast of Florida. It draw many comparisons to the Mediterran- canoe and kayak rentals, and a range of is home base for fishing and sailing charters, ean Sea. The Italian influence is particularly personal watercraft are available at piers, sightseeing boats, dinner cruises, dolphin notable in the architecture, which features marinas, and beach resorts. tours, parasailing, and personal watercraft red clay tile roofs and broad loggias and rentals. verandas to catch the Gulf breezes.

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McMullen Log Cabin (top) Heritage Mercantile (bottom) 1920s Garage

Heritage Village, a living history museum set Originally a neighborhood grocery store and The Pin-Mar Antique Car Club of Pinellas into a natural scrub and palmetto landscape, meat market in St. Petersburg, the historic County was instrumental in the restoration is reminiscent of Florida as it was nearly 150 building was acquired by the City of St. of Heritage Mercantile and hosts antique years ago. The 1868 McMullen House, log Petersburg and moved to its present site at auto events on the property. Among the cabin of Largo pioneer Daniel McMullen, is Heritage Village. It has been restored as a other historic properties relocated to the oldest structure in the county. It is said 1920s-era general store with a gas station Heritage Village are a sponge warehouse, that more than 55 babies were born in and garage. a bandstand, a church, a school, a railroad the cabin. depot, and even outhouses.

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Ruth Eckerd Hall (top) Bright House Networks Field (bottom) Lefty Grove (opposite)

Clearwater’s classy, acoustically superior per- Modest prices, a great location off U.S. 19 Phillies star Lefty Grove, one of the greatest forming arts hall and its Marcia P.Hoffman and fine Philadelphia cheese steaks make pitchers in history, was said to be right-hand- Performing Arts Institute play host to nearly this colorful new, family-friendly, 8,500- ed off the field. Phillies lore says he used his half a million people each year, for perform- capacity ball park in Clearwater a great right hand to punch lockers. Grove, who ances ranging from Broadway musicals to place to see the Philadelphia Phillies in won seven strikeout titles and four World stage dramas, pops concerts and dance spring training. The Phillies have made Series games, was inducted into the Baseball productions, and for education in the per- Clearwater their spring home since 1947. Hall of Fame in 1947. He is immortalized in forming arts. bronze at Bright House Networks Field.

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Tropicana Field (top and opposite) St. Pete Times Forum (bottom)

Long-time visitors and residents may team, the Tampa Bay Rays, build their pro- 75-foot tall lightning bolts welcome fans to remember it as the Florida Suncoast Dome posed new stadium in downtown St. Pete. the home of the Tampa Bay Lightning pro- or the Thunder Dome, featuring the world’s For now, fans of the feisty Rays (formerly the fessional hockey team. The 20,000-seat St. second-largest cable-supported domed roof. Devil Rays) still enjoy the 10,000 gallon tank Pete Times Forum arena also is the venue The current incarnation of this 1.1 million where they can pet and feed Cownose Rays for big name concerts, ice shows, circus square-foot professional sports facility is while they cheer their team. extravaganzas, and sporting events. called Tropicana Field, but that may change when the resident professional baseball

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Dunedin Marina Pier Bait House

For those arriving by boat, the pretty Pelicans are such regulars on St. Pete’s pier Dunedin Marina, with nearly 200 wet slips, that the Bait House staffers have names for is located on the Intracoastal Waterway many of them. Henrietta has been flying in between the Dunedin and Clearwater for her herring-and-sardine lunch for 27 causeways, east of channel markers #4 and years, and this un-named rescued-and- #5. The marina is home to one of Florida’s released bird from the Seabird Sanctuary oldest sailing clubs, which has an active likes to stand at the Bait House door and cruising and racing calendar. stare at Bonnie, his new best friend.

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Vinoy Park Great Egret

Sophisticated high-rise residential towers, an Great Egrets, Snowy Egrets, and Great White expansive public park, and the glamorous Herons are all abundant in the Tampa Bay Vinoy Resort overlook the historic yacht har- area. They can be seen on beaches, in man- bor in Vinoy Basin. With its Mediterranean- groves, marshes, and ponds. The Great Egret style ambience and green open spaces, Vinoy is recognizable by his green eye bands, Basin, also known as Vinoy Park, is a popular bright yellow beak, and black legs. setting for concerts, fireworks, art shows, and gatherings in Downtown St. Petersburg.

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The Pier (top and bottom) Downtown St. Pete

Natives may still call it the Million Dollar Pier, tourists, sightseeing and fishing charters, and The Pier is a prime vantage point to enjoy a built in 1926 to replace the original Pier watersport rentals. The Pier even has its own view of downtown St. Petersburg. The Pier Pavilion built in 1895. Today, it’s called simply 2,000 square foot aquarium where, among and its observation deck are also the places The Pier, but there’s nothing simple about other things, humans can listen as sea crea- to be to view fireworks shows and holiday this playful, Crayon box-colored five-story tures communicate with each other. boat parades. Visitors can park in the adja- inverted pyramid structure teeming with, cent lots and take one of the free bright shops, galleries, restaurants, and tiki bars; or red trolleys up the boulevard right to the its boardwalk crowded with fishermen, entrance.

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Roseate Spoonbills (opposite) Sunshine Skyway Bridge (above)

Sometimes confused with that other pink Patterned after the Brotonne Bridge over bird, the flamingo, the magnificent Roseate the Seine River in France, The Bob Graham Spoonbill is distinguished by its flat, spoon- Sunshine Skyway is synonymous with shaped bill. Its long, fringed feathers once St. Petersburg. The 15.5 mile-long bridge were prized for ladies hats. Roseates feed in soars 190 feet over Tampa Bay. Its longest the shallow muddy waters around Tampa stay has 82 strands, weighs 37 tons, and is Bay area mangroves at low tide. Their pink 1260 feet long. hues come from the crustaceans in their diet.

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Night Drama (pages 110–111) Fish and Wildlife Research Institute (top) Museum of History (bottom) Salvador Dali Museum

Stunning cable-stay architecture, dramatic Created in 2004, the Fish and Wildlife Research St. Petersburg’s Museum of History has With nearly 2,500 pieces, St. Petersburg’s plays of light and shadow against blue sky, Institute is headquartered in St. Petersburg, 32,000 artifacts, 8,000-plus photos, and 5,000 Salvador Dali Museum contains the world’s and dramatic nighttime up-lighting make with many field laboratories around the state. documents preserving regional history. The most comprehensive collection of the driving across the Sunshine Skyway an exhil- Under the auspices of the Florida Fish and museum is best known for its exhibit, Flight famous surrealist’s work, including his own arating experience. Night or day, it is a Wildlife Conservation Commission, its mis- One Gallery, with its glass-enclosed First Air- museum in Figueres, Spain. The exciting favorite subject of artists and photographers. sion is to study and help restore ecosystems, line Pavilion. The Flight One Gallery commem- family museum, which recently celebrated fisheries, wildlife and imperiled species, and orates the world’s first commercial flight its first quarter-century, is growing rapidly; to study red tides. between St. Petersburg and Tampa in 1914. a new facility is planned for 2010.

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St. Petersburg Yacht Club Floating Chapel

Established in 1909, the St. Petersburg Yacht St. Pete definitely is in the running as home Club in downtown St. Pete is known as the of the world’s most unique wedding chapel. "sailing capital of the south." SPYC has an The traditional church, with its tall stained international reputation for its regattas and glass windows and cathedral ceilings, floats youth sailing programs, which have pro- on its own barge at The Pier and can set sail duced collegiate All-American athletes. for the beach, the bay, or—if you live on the Club members have included Olympic water—your own backyard. and America’s Cup champions.

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The Coliseum BayWalk

Some will recognize the historic, pink Trendy shops, martini and daiquiri bars, stuccoed, 1924 building in downtown theme restaurants, and the 20-screen St. Petersburg from scenes in the 1985 Muvico complex make up the $40 million movie, Cocoon. The massive ballroom has BayWalk theme plaza in downtown St. Peters- one of the largest dance floors in America, burg, part of the transformation of St. Pete with a capacity of 2000 people. from a sleepy retirement town to a vibrant, multi-generational city.

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Muvico (opposite) Renaissance Vinoy (above)

The mega-cool, mega-movie complex at A grande dame of the Gilded Age, the glam- BayWalk is one of 14 themed Muvico centers orous Renaissance Vinoy Resort is among in Florida, with state-of-the-art digital technol- Florida’s finest examples of early 20th century ogy, a new IMAX theater, childcare services, Mediterranean Revival architecture. The St. and full service restaurants. Its 20 stadium- Petersburg resort has its own private marina, seating auditoriums have an astounding an 18-hole golf course, tennis complex, and 4,200-seat capacity. spa. Its restaurants and lounge are gathering spots for major league baseball superstars.

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Don CeSar Hotel (above and opposite)

Rising like a pink-iced wedding cake on St. Pete Beach,“The Don” is the sweetest confection of the Gilded Age. With its palm- fringed entrance suitable for royalty, the Moorish-style flamingo-pink sand castle, trimmed with towers and spires, once hosted larger-than-life characters like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Al Capone.

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Beach Elder Under the Boardwalks

The ridges in the scallop shell at its base Wooden boardwalks all along the coastline gives a perspective on the miniscule size of add a picturesque ambience while protect- the beach elder blossom, which is nearly ing the fragile dunes and beach vegetation indiscernible to the casual observer. The from potential damage by foot traffic. The beach elder blooms has a spike with dozens walkways also provide shelter and shade for of tiny flower bracts. small wildlife such as the threatened Florida Gopher Tortoise.

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Rainbow Lorikeet (opposite) Sunken Gardens (top and bottom)

Though it is native to Australia and Asia, the A century ago, a plumber named George Rainbow Lorikeet thrives in its home at Turner bought a Florida sinkhole, drained it Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. Visitors can buy a and planted fruits, vegetables, and oak trees cup of nectar to feed the brilliant-hued par- for shade. By 1920 he was giving nickel tours rots in the free-flight Lorikeet Landing aviary. and selling his produce, which became so popular that by 1935 the price had elevated to 25 cents. In 1999 the mature four acres were acquired by the city of St. Pete.

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Fort De Soto Park (above) Beaches of Tampa Bay (opposite)

Dating back to the Spanish American War, Sugary white sands, aquamarine waters, and the 1,136-acre Fort De Soto Park is com- year-round blue skies make Tampa Bay one prised of five islands. The park’s North Beach of the most desirable areas to live and vaca- was awarded the coveted rating of the #1 tion in America. Factor in colorful shore Beach in America by “Dr. Beach,” Dr. Stephen birds and profusions of tropical flowers, and Leatherman. Park amenities and activities Dr. Beach may just be compelled to retire include guided nature walks, fishing piers, the crown permanently to this slice of camping, picnicking, and war re-enactments. Paradise on the Gulf of Mexico.

126 127 Since 1989, Robert La Follette has been working as a graphic designer and photographer. His photographs have won numerous awards and have appeared in Shutterbug Magazine, Informant Guest, and Creation Magazine. La Follette is also a contributing writer and photographer for Florida Wildlife Magazine. Robert was awarded Best of Show at the Boyd Hill Nature Photography Contest in St. Petersburg, Florida. He has been featured on "i On Tampa Bay" for PAX Television in Tampa. Robert’s photography also appears around Tampa Bay, most notably with the Tampa Bay Convention and Visitors Bureau,where his images showcase the beauty and attractions that make Tampa Bay a world-renowned vacation destination. La Follette teaches creative photography online and in numerous photography workshops around the United States and Canada. Robert lives in Tampa, Florida with his wife, Dawn, to whom he has been happily married for over 18 years.Wildlife enthusiasts, together they perform volunteer work with Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo and Clearwater Marine Aquarium. To view more of Robert's award- winning photography, please visit www.robertlafollette.com.

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Karen T. Bartlett is an award-winning travel journalist whose work appears in books, magazines and newspapers throughout North America and the Caribbean. She made her home on the Gulf Coast of Florida two decades ago, and no matter how far she travels, she always looks forward to a joyful return. www.karentbartlett.com PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS PROPERY OF TWIN LIGHTS PUBLISHERS

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