Category: Press Releases

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Susana Weymouth
813-221-2787
susanaweymouth@tbbca.org

Scholarship opportunities – $15,000+ available for talented students

TAMPA, Fla. (December 16, 2019) – Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts (Tampa Bay BCA) (TBBCA) Charlie Hounchell Art Stars Scholarships Program 2020 Call for Applicants is now open to qualified Tampa Bay area high school juniors and seniors.
TBBCA annually awards six or more scholarships to Tampa Bay area high school students with exceptional talents in instrumental music and vocal music, theater, dance, visual arts and literary arts. Since the program’s founding in 2008 by TBBCA and Past President, the late Charlie Hounchell, renamed in his honor, TBBCA has awarded financial tuition assistance to more than 75 Tampa Bay area students, the majority from public high schools, who are some of the most promising and talented young writers, poets, artists, dancers, musicians and performers in the nation. The 2019 winners’ profiles, and judges’ bios, can be found on TBBCA website https://www.tbbca.org/programs-events/art-stars-scholarships/
There is no fee to apply. Qualified students may apply in one, more, or all disciplines, via separate applications for each category. Completed applications are being accepted NOW through the deadline of February 21, 2020, mailed to TBBCA P.O. Box 559, Tampa, FL 33601. The guidelines and requirements for application documents, recommendation letters, artist statement, work samples, and other required material with the 2020 application form are posted and downloadable on TBBCA website https://www.tbbca.org/programs-events/art-stars-scholarships/ or contact TBBCA Executive Director at susanaweymouth@tbbca.org with any questions or to receive an application via email.

About TBBCA
Tampa Bay BCA is a non-profit 501 (c) (3), founded in 1989 as the first in Florida Business Committee for the Arts, one of the national BCA’s who work to connect business leaders in support of arts and culture – in the workplace, in the community, and in education. For over 30 years, TBBCA has united businesses to champion arts and culture for a prosperous community, based on the philosophy that the arts are good for business and business is good for the arts. TBBCA is a member of the national private sector network and pARTnership movement of Americans for the Arts. To donate to The Charlie Hounchell Art Stars Scholarships go to www.tbbca.org or contact TBBCA 813-221-2787. Individual scholarship naming rights and sponsorships are available.

Mayoral Proclamations recognize the non-profit at the 30th Anniversary Impact Awards

Tampa, Fla. (October 11, 2019) – Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts, “Tampa Bay BCA” celebrated three decades of successfully uniting the private sector in support of arts and culture at the October 10, 2019 30th Anniversary Impact Awards. Marking this milestone, the non-profit organization’s signature event drew over 500 business, elected officials, higher education and community leaders from across the bay.

The honorable Jane Castor, mayor of the City of Tampa, issued a proclamation to TBBCA for ‘providing advocacy, funding resources and support for arts education, artists, and arts and cultural organizations and their programs’ and reflecting ‘on all that has been accomplished over the years’. Dr. Kanika Jelks-Tomalin, deputy mayor, recognized TBBCA with a proclamation on behalf of the City of St. Petersburg.

Stephen Gay, president and chair of TBBCA board of directors, shared the organization’s storied history and impactful programs. “For thirty years, the Tampa Bay BCA has carried out this pivotal role of private sector champion for arts and culture as vital economic drivers, catalysts for creativity, innovation, transformation, and essential contributors to quality of life,” he remarked. Gay credited the organization’s past presidents and chairs as Tampa Bay BCA founding visionaries “who held the conviction that businesses coming together in support of our community’s artistic and cultural and creative industries would give Tampa Bay better opportunity to develop into a thriving regional economy with enhanced offerings that stimulate development, and attract and retain businesses and a talented workforce.”

The evening’s full program kicked off to fanfare with ‘fireworks’ video and live performance by TBBCA board director Jeff Wooldridge, who is an accomplished composer/musician and jazz trumpeter. Jeff is executive vice-president and regional retail manager for TBBCA Chair’s Circle pARTner and Impact Awards Signature Sponsor Bank OZK.

This year’s featured artist, Ya La’Ford, was introduced as the creator of the original works of art that were awarded to the honorees.

The Impact Awards honored Michael Connelly, NYT #1 best-selling author of thirty-two novels, with over 70 million copies of his books worldwide, was celebrated as one of the most successful writers working today. Connelly is currently producing a TV series for Amazon Studios called Bosch, based on his novels. Its 6th season is currently in production. Connelly was honored with the TBBCA 2019 Lifetime Achievement Impact Award.

Honoree Kalup Linzy, internationally exhibited multi-disciplinary artist, a double alumnus of University of South Florida, was recognized with TBBCA 2019 Innovation in the Arts Impact Award.

Lorna Taylor, President and CEO of Premier Eye Care, was lauded for her visionary leadership, strong advocacy and generous support with TBBCA 2019 Patron of Culture & the Arts Impact Award.

The video presentations on the three honorees were created in collaboration with Glenn Horn, Creative Director of ChappellRoberts and TBBCA board director. The honorees’ videos debuted at the event can be viewed on TBBCA’s website at www.tbbca.org/programs-events/impactawards2019

The Impact Awards benefit TBBCA Charlie Hounchell Art Stars Scholarships and programs. Young Angellina Fedullo, this year’s scholarship recipient for vocal music, had the opportunity to showcase her talent and perform live. The Bloomingdale high school senior brought guests to their feet with her soprano rendition of Mozart’s La Nozze de Figaro. To learn more about Angellina and the other scholarships recipients https://www.tbbca.org/programs-events/art-stars-scholarships/

About TBBCA
Tampa Bay BCA is a non-profit founded in 1989, the first in Florida national Business Committee for the Arts, part of the private sector network and national pARTnership Movement of Americans for the Arts. For three decades, TBBCA has united Tampa Bay businesses to champion arts and culture for a prosperous community, because the arts are good for business, and business is good for the arts. TBBCA is a 501 (c) (3) #CH32681 www.tbbca.org Executive Director contact: susanaweymouth@tbbca.org

Business leaders join as TBBCA celebrates three decades of support for arts and culture
TAMPA, Fla. (August 1, 2019) – Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts (Tampa Bay BCA, “TBBCA”) is pleased to announce the election to its board of Jordan Behar, AIA and Brooke Palmer Kuhl.

“We are thrilled to have elected these new directors,” said Stephen Gay, TBBCA Board President. “Together, they bring unique areas of expertise and new voices to our board.”

“Tampa Bay BCA is pleased to add two stellar business leaders who are committed to our mission and programs,” added Susana Weymouth, TBBCA Executive Director. “They will strengthen our organization in this milestone year as we celebrate three decades of private sector impact in support of arts and culture, and arts education, in our community.”

Jordan Behar, AIA, is a Florida native and founding partner of Behar + Peteranecz Architecture, with company headquarters in the Warehouse Arts District of St. Petersburg. Throughout his twenty five-plus years of experience, Mr. Behar has developed a reputation for his uncompromising quality and attention to detail. Behar has acted as principal on several significant local projects, including the adaptive reuse of Tampa’s historic Hesterly Armory, and the innovative Seivold Center for Early Childhood Education at Berkeley Preparatory School. Mr. Behar and his firm are dedicated to community and cultural leadership, championing local artists and arts organizations through corporate-community partnerships, fundraising, and board leadership. Mr. Behar is a graduate of University of Florida, Bachelor of Fine Arts College of Architecture and Florida A&M University, Bachelor of Architecture.

Brooke Palmer Kuhl is the creative mastermind behind r.s.b.p. Events +PR. Born and raised in Washington, DC, Ms. Palmer has committed the last fifteen years pursuing philanthropic endeavors with charitable organizations including The Arts Center, the Tampa Theatre, Florida Aquarium, and Lowry Park Zoo and others. As President of r.s.b.p. Events+PR, Ms. Palmer handles high profile clients, public relations efforts, social media management, and foundation events for professional athletes and celebrities as well as hospitality and lifestyle clients. Her repertoire also includes sponsorships management and planning high-end weddings and private events. Ms. Palmer was the scene columnist for Tampa Bay Metro Magazine for nearly 10 years, and prior to that lent her expertise to TBT* and Bay News 9, and Daytime, Tampa’s NBC Affiliate’s syndicated morning show in over 100 markets, and ABC’s Tampa Bay Morning Blend. Ms. Palmer graduated from Vanderbilt University with a degree in Molecular Biology, earned a Graduate Certificate in Digital Marketing at the University of South Florida and has completed work for her masters at USF.

About TBBCA
TBBCA is the first in Florida and a national Business Committees for the Arts, part of the national private sector network and pARTnership Movement of Americans for the Arts. TBBCA mission is to unite Tampa Bay businesses to champion arts and culture for a prosperous community. Since the non-profit’s founding in 1989 by business leaders, the Tampa Bay BCA has played a crucial leadership role connecting businesses in awareness and support of arts and culture as vital economic drivers, catalysts for innovation, creativity, transformation and development, and essential contributors to well-being and quality of life. The arts are good for business and business is good for the arts.

The Impact Awards, TBBCA’s annual fundraiser benefiting the scholarships and programs, is on October 10 at Armature Works in Tampa. For information on tickets and sponsorships, go to www.tbbca.org/ImpactAwards2019 or contact Executive Director susanaweymouth@tbbca.org or 813-221-2787

Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Announces Call for Submissions for 50th Anniversary Festival Image
TAMPA, Fla. (July 30, 2019) – Be a part of history 50 years in the making! From the Fairgrounds to the sidewalks of downtown Tampa, to Curtis Hixon Park and now to its new home across the river at Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts continues to reach exciting new levels of success in its 50th year. YOU can be a part of one of the country’s premier art festivals. Interested artists are invited to submit digitally final concept images that depict a creative representation of how art, music and nature combine to unite us by creating a dynamic and vibrant community. Deadline to submit is September 1, 2019. The winning design will be announced by October 31, 2019 and will be recognized as the “official” image of the 50th Anniversary Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts. The official image will appear on all promotional materials leading up to the February 29th – March 1st, 2020 festival.

The artist whose work is selected will receive:  A $1,000 cash award  A featured bio on the GFA website  Recognition on GFA and participating organizations’ social media sites  Promotion of artwork reproduced as an “official” image on printed and other materials

GUIDELINES FOR ENTRY  The GFA competition is open to all artists, fifteen and older  Artists may submit up to 3 images for consideration  All entries must be the artist’s original concept and design and must be submitted digitally (2MB or less) to GFA at info@gasparillaarts.com  Concept image size must be adaptable and suitable for reproduction (scanning, printing) on T-shirts, posters and vertical banners. Limited to no mixed media entries advised  No images of pirates or of the Gasparilla parades are acceptable  The image will be used in conjunction with GFA’s logo as well as a special typographic 50th brand mark that is currently being developed  Artists must include their name, address, phone number and email address when submitting their images

The GFA committee and board will assess the entries. Submissions will be evaluated based on concept, originality, design and marketing adaptability. Some applications may require cropping the image. By entering the contest, you agree that the winning submission will become the property of the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, with the rights associated thereof.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE GASPARILLA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS

Each year in conjunction with the city’s social and cultural season known as Gasparilla, an art festival is produced by an all-volunteer staff of many dedicated individuals. Highly accredited artists from all over the country are invited to participate in this prestigious juried show.

The festival began in 1970, when a group of downtown professionals conceived the notion of a sidewalk art festival. Word about GFA’s high quality spread through art circles insured by the involvement of jurors such as Robert Hughes, author/director of The Shock of the New book and TV program, Janet Kardon of the American Craft Museum in NYC, and William J Coward, curator of 20th Century Art at the National Gallery of Art in Washington, DC.

The Festival’s success has seen it evolve over its 5 decades: notably, the prize money has grown from its original $3,900 to a total of $76,500; categories of submissions have expanded to include fine craft.

The festival has moved a few times from its beginnings on Whiting Street to Doyle Carlton Drive behind the Tampa Museum of Art and the Curtis Hixon Convention Center. In 1994, Curtis Hixon was razed and the show moved to Ashley Street, then in 1995 it expanded into the newly constructed Curtis Hixon Park on the Hillsborough River. In 2003, the festival moved to Franklin Street and Lykes Gaslight Square Park in anticipation of construction of the new Tampa Museum of Art. Happily, in March 2010 the festival moved back to the park along the river as the newly built and breathtaking Tampa Museum of Art opened its doors, with its front door enjoying the view of the Raymond James Gaparilla Festival of the Arts taking place annually in the newly named and designed Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

For our 50th year we will be moving across the river to the wonderful newly completed and larger Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park. This is an opportunity to utilize one of Tampa’s finest and newest spaces; showcasing the lovely skyline of Tampa and the beauty of the Hillsborough River as well as moving forward with the exciting growth and development of the west side of downtown and Tampa Heights.

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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Susana Weymouth
813.221-2787
susanaweymouth@tbbca.org

TAMPA, Fla. (June 27, 2019) – Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts (Tampa Bay BCA – “TBBCA”) welcomes Bank OZK to the national pARTnerhip Movement of Americans for the Arts. “We are proud to distinguish Bank OZK as Chair’s Circle pARTner,” said Susana Weymouth, Tampa Bay BCA Executive Director. “By strategically aligning with national leaders in support and promotion of the arts, Bank OZK is helping to build a healthy and prosperous business and creative arts ecosystem.”

“We’ve always been the kind of bank with a strong commitment to the communities we serve while cultivating relationships that grow and thrive together,” remarked Alan Randolph, Bank OZK Regional Director, Florida and New York. “We are pleased to bring the strengths of Bank OZK and our ability to create and harness innovation to advance arts and culture in our communities in new and resourceful ways.”

“Through our leadership role with TBBCA, Bank OZK looks to robustly promote the arts and stimulate community and economic development,” added Bank OZK Executive Vice President, Tampa Bay Regional Manager Jeff Wooldridge, who serves on TBBCA’s Board of Directors.

About Bank OZK
Bank OZK is a regional bank providing innovative financial solutions delivered by expert bankers with a relentless pursuit of excellence. Bank OZK has been recognized as the top performing bank in the nation in its asset size 13 times in the past eight years. Headquartered in Little Rock, Arkansas, Bank OZK conducts operations through 254 offices across 10 states. www.ozk.com

About TBBCA
TBBCA is a non-profit that is celebrating 30 years of successfully uniting businesses to champion arts and culture. The first affiliate in Florida of the national Business Committees for the Arts, TBBCA is part of the private sector network and national pARTnership Movement of Americans for the Arts. TBBCA connects business and thought leaders in engagement and support of the arts, builds collaborations, innovative pARTnerships and promotes impactful programming for the benefit of our community www.tbbca.org

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact:
Susana Weymouth
813-221-2787
susanaweymouth@tbbca.org

TAMPA BAY BUSINESSES FOR CULTURE & THE ARTS WELCOMES NEW pARTner GRAYROBINSON

TAMPA, Fl., (May 22, 2019) – Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts (TBBCA) is excited to announce GrayRobinson as its newest TBBCA pARTner. GrayRobinson shareholder and commercial litigator Sharon Carlstedt Britton is the TBBCA Vice President as well as a Board Director. GrayRobinson, a full-service law and lobbying firm with attorneys and government relations professionals throughout 15 offices spanning the State of Florida and Washington, DC.

“Sharon is a keen and passionate supporter of arts and culture in our community,” remarked TBBCA Executive Director Susana Weymouth. “TBBCA is grateful for both Sharon’s and GrayRobinson’s leadership and influence that reflects so positively on that of our organization and the Tampa Bay Area.” Britton is a Tampa native and alumnae of the Academy of the Holy Names, and formerly had abstract art studios in Ybor City and at the Oleson Gallery and Bloom Art Center in St. Petersburg. She received her undergraduate degree from The American University and her law degree from Georgetown University Law Center.

About GrayRobinson
GrayRobinson’s attorneys, consultants, and regulatory professionals provide legal and government relations services to Fortune 500 companies, emerging businesses, lending institutions, local and state governments, developers, entrepreneurs, and individuals. GrayRobinson prides itself on being a firm that serves its clients and communities while counting creativity as a hallmark characteristic and insisting on ingenuity and innovation. GrayRobinson’s mission is to apply its legal, lobbying, and regulatory backgrounds and skills in ways that enable its clients to define and achieve their goals, while supporting its communities as a matter of mission as well as passion. For more information, please visit www.gray-robinson.com.

About Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts (TBBCA)
TBBCA is a non-profit 501 (c) (3), one of the national Business Committees for the Arts and private sector network and national pARTnership Movement of Americans for the Arts. Since its founding in 1989, TBBCA has united businesses in support of arts education, and culture and the arts in our community, based on the philosophy that ‘the arts are good for business, and business is good for the arts’. TBBCA connects business and thought leaders in engagement and support of the arts, builds collaborations, innovative pARTnerships and promotes a healthy and successful business and cultural eco-system. TBBCA pARTnerships support programs including Cultural Encounters, TBBCA Chalk Walks, Call to Artists, The Charlie Hounchell Art Stars Scholarships, and others. For more information on TBBCA, or to join the pARTnership movement, contact 813-221-2787 or www.tbbca.org.

TAMPA, Fla. (April 19, 2019) – Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts (“Tampa Bay BCA”), (“TBBCA”) is pleased to announce that Raquel Ramirez Jefferson, attorney for Phelps Dunbar, has been elected to the non-profit’s board of directors. Her initial three-year term begins as TBBCA celebrates its milestone 30th anniversary year as a national Business Committee for the Arts. Ms. Jefferson joins a distinguished group of individual and business leaders who believe businesses play a crucial role in fostering and ensuring the development and growth of the arts. Phelps Dunbar is a longtime valued TBBCA pARTner.

With Phelps Dunbar, Ms. Jefferson practices in the areas of labor and employment as defense counsel for corporate employers and complex commercial litigation, representing corporate clients in a variety of employment and other complex litigation matters in federal and state courts in Florida and in arbitration proceedings nationwide. Her practice includes litigation involving employment discrimination and retaliation laws, ADA compliance, professional negligence and breach of contract claims involving a wide range of corporate disputes, including claims regarding franchise agreements, corporate governance agreements, employment contracts and restrictive covenants.

Ms. Jefferson is a graduate of Stetson University College of Law, J.D., cum laude, 2012, Certificate of Concentration in Advocacy, and was Research Editor, Stetson Law Review, and Phi Delta Phi. She earned her B.A. from Barry University. She has been admitted to the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit, U.S. District Court, Middle District of Florida, and U.S. District Court, Southern District of Florida. She is a member of The Florida Bar, Hillsborough County Bar Association, Hillsborough Association for Women Lawyers, The Defense Research Institute. She was selected to Rising Stars list by Super Lawyers (Thomson Reuters).

ABOUT TBBCA
For over 30 years, Tampa Bay BCA has been fulfilling its mission to unite businesses to champion arts and culture for a prosperous community. The very first affiliate in Florida of the National Business Committees for the Arts, TBBCA is part of the private sector network and national pARTnership Movement of Americans for the Arts. TBBCA pARTners hold the conviction that businesses coming together promoting and supporting our community’s artistic and cultural and creative industries give Tampa Bay better opportunity for developing into a thriving regional economy with enhanced quality of life. TBBCA pARTnerships make possible valuable programs that create a positive impact, including Cultural Encounters, Chalk Walks, and The Charlie Hounchell Art Stars Scholarships. For more information on TBBCA, or to join the pARTnership movement, contact Executive Director susanaweymouth@tbbca.org or 813-221-2787 www.tbbca.org.

Specially commissioned artists bring their chalk artwork to life

TAMPA, Fla. (March 27, 2019) – Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts (TBBCA) is thrilled to pARTner with 11th annual Winthrop Arts Festival & Market for TBBCA Chalk Walk. The free, fun, family friendly live art experience will feature four specially commissioned chalk artists bringing their special genre of art to life
Saturday, March 30th from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Winthrop Commons, Riverview. The final chalk art will be on display through Sunday, March 31st as the Winthrop Arts Festival & Market continues for a second day. In the past, the festival has attracted hundreds of visitors from across the region.

Winthrop Arts Inc. President of the Board of Visionaries, Matthew Hamilton, commented, “Winthrop Arts Board and Committee are proud to present the 11th annual Arts Festival, a juried art fair featuring over 50 visual and performing artists from across the south east working in glass, jewelry, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor, wood and other media.. We’re all looking forward to enjoying it.”

“We are proud to offer this TBBCA Chalk Walk for the first time with our valued Cultural pARTner Winthrop Festival of the Arts,” says Susana Weymouth, Executive Director of TBBCA. “It is a great opportunity to support talented artists of this genre and technical skill while providing a free, fun, family-friendly and accessible program for all ages and levels of art appreciation. TBBCA Chalk Walks help attract the public to area businesses.”

About TBBCA
Tampa Bay BCA (TBBCA) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1989, one of 11 national Business Committees for the Arts, part of the private sector network of Americans for the Arts. TBBCA mission is to unite Tampa Bay area businesses to champion arts education, arts and culture for a prosperous community, ‘the arts are good for business, and business is good for the arts.’ TBBCA provides advocacy, resources and support for arts and cultural organizations, artists, and arts education, and builds awareness of arts and culture as important economic drivers in our community and essential contributors to our quality of life. For information contact susanaweymouth@tbbca.org or (813) 221-2787, or visit www.tbbca.org

About Winthrop Arts
Winthrop Arts is a 501(c)3 cultural arts organization based in Riverview, Florida. Winthrop Arts creates a bridge between the arts and community in tangible and meaningful ways with a focus on developing and inspiring the next generation of artists and patrons. Winthrop Arts run the Winthrop Arts Mobile Art Factory, a program that offers free art classes to underserved children living in Southern Hillsborough County and which is grant, sponsorship and donation driven. It is also offers classes for children and adults based on fee depending on class and artist/teacher. The non-profit organization welcomes support from sponsorships and corporate and individual gifts to fund its programs and events. Contact Executive Director Kathy Collins kathy@winthroparts.org or call 813-758-5161. Information for festival-goers is posted to the Winthrop Arts website www.winthroparts.org
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For Immediate Release
Contact:
Maureen McDole
mmcdole@KeepStPeteLit.org
(727) 798-4530

Arts, Education and Events with a Literary Twist run from April 11-28, 2019
TAMPA, Fla. (March 24, 2019) – KEEP ST. PETE LIT, a non-profit 501 (c ) (3), is proud to bring to Tampa Bay the 5th annual SunLit Festival. This popular springtime celebration at the intersection of literature and the arts celebrates and promotes greater St. Petersburg’s literary community – past, present and future – through approachable and engaging arts, education and events with a literary twist. The SunLit Festival that runs from from April 11 to 28th, with wide ranging partners in locations throughout the city, will a host a kick-off party at the Chihuly Collection on April 11th from 7-9 p.m. literary component to St. Petersburg’s vibrant arts community
“The SunLit Festival is a confederation of like-minded literary, cultural, and civic organizations,” said Maureen McDole, Executive Director of KEEP ST. PETE LIT. “SunLit brings together dozens of different organizations and arts disciplines to celebrate literacy, literature, reading, and writing, for over two weeks of ‘Litertainment’ with interesting exchanges and fun events.” McDole founded KEEP ST. PETE LIT because she believes wholeheartedly in the power of literature to change the world. Referring to the mission, she added, “It captures the spirit of Literature representing a moment in time, and as an exploration of our history, an expression of our experiences and of the life that surrounds us. It is a discussion of who we are, how we got that way and what choices we can make to shape our future.”

“St. Pete has the potential to be one of the world’s great literary destinations.” Said Mayor Rick Kriseman. “Our Sunshine City has inspired and been a haven for writers and poets and is home to historic and unique bookstores, reading festivals, conferences, and a century-old Carnegie library. The literary arts is just one more reason to live, work, and play in St. Pete.”

The Festival schedule includes 23 events throughout Tampa Bay taking place from April 11-28, 2019. For more information, tickets and festival schedule visit https://sunlitfestival.org

KEEP ST. PETE LIT 5th annual SunLit Festival is proud to partner with:
Chihuly Gallery, Florida CraftArt, Antiquarium Book Fair, Preserve the Burg, USF St. Petersburg, Boyd Hill Preserve, Wordier than Thou, Friends of the Mirror Lake Library, Mark Leib, The Studio@620, Florida Folk Show, Friends of the Jack Kerouac House, Creative Loafing Tampa Bay, St. Petersburg Women’s Collective, Lector Wine Bar, Gulfport Historical Society, W.O.R.D Initiative, Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, Behar Peteranecz Architecture, Chad Mize, Mark Leib, Lounge Cat, Hello Darlin’ Records, Peter Meinke, Daddy Kool Records, Tombolo Books, Iberian Rooster, Museum of Fine Arts, The Literacy Council of St. Pete, St. Petersburg Main Library, Kitchen Table Literary Arts, Metta Center St. Pete, UU St. Pete, Florida Chapter of Horror Writers Association, TBBCA, Carousal, Warehouse Arts District and ArtXchange.

Thank you to SunLit Festival sponsors:
City of St. Petersburg, Chihuly Collection, Russell Property Group, Sylvia Rusche, Paradise News, Behar Peteranecz Architecture, J. Crayton Pruitt Foundation, Tampa Bay Times, Mize Gallery, The Factory, Green Bench Brewing Company, Black Crow Coffee Co., Cohen Family, Cecilia Lueza Art Projects, Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture and the Arts, and Yann and Susana Weymouth.
To become a sponsor of SunLit Festival, contact Maureen McDole mmcdole@KeepStPeteLit.org or tel: (727) 798-4530

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS
Thursday, April 11
Title of Event: 5th Annual SunLit Festival Kickoff Party!
Description of event: Come celebrate the kickoff of the 5th Annual SunLit Festival! Enjoy beer/wine and hors d’oeuvres, as you explore the Chihuly Collection. The SunLit Festival brings together cultural organizations, writers, artists, and businesses for 18 days of “Litertainment.” It runs April 11-28, 2019. We will also be giving out the 2019 SunLit Award!
Music by Lounge Cat. Donation bar. Proceeds will support Keep St. Pete Lit’s literary programming.
Contact Name and Number: Keep St. Pete Lit (727) 798-4530 info@keepstpetelit.org
Location: Chihuly Collection- 720 Central Ave, St. Pete
Time: 7:00-9:00pm
Cost: $35 (includes 2 free drink tickets).
For more info: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4078305

Saturday, April 13
Title of Event: Downtown Tour With a Literary Twist!
Description of event: Preserve the ‘Burg (PTB) and our friends at Keep St. Pete Lit are partnering to offer this fun tweak to PTB’s traditional downtown walking tour – a historic tour with a literary twist! Tour goers will learn about some of the ‘Burg’s history and architecture while gaining inspiration from local writers reading from their work. The tour, starting at City Hall, will circle around Mirror Lake an area with historic homes, schools, churches and, of course, the shuffle board courts!! All in all, this tour makes for a great morning, make your reservation now as this tour often fills up!
Contact Name and Number: Preserve the ‘Burg 727.824.7802 info@preservetheburg.org
Location: Tour departs from City Hall – 175 5th St N, St. Pete
Time: 10:00am-12:00pm
Cost: $10/person; free for member of PTB
For more info (Facebook event): https://preservetheburg.org/event-3248993

Title of Event: Ekphrastic Performance inspired by Quest: A Celebration of Glass
Description of event: SunLit Festival, writers and poets perform ekphrastic interpretations inspired by Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey and the art in the exhibition: Quest: A Celebration of Glass.
Contact Name and Number: Katie Deits- (727) 821-7391
Location: Florida CraftArt- 501 Central Ave, St. Pete
Time: 2:00-4:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info (Facebook event): https://www.facebook.com/events/573908179790222/

Title of Event: Children’s Poetry Night Hike
Description of event: Celebrate poetry with this unique event tailored to children. Children will read poetry related to wilds of the night. This event is organized by Keep St. Pete Lit! Space is limited. Payment at the preserve reserves your spot.
Contact Name and Number: (727) 893-7326
Location: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve- 1101 Country Club Way South, St. Pete
Time: 7:00pm
Cost: $5 ages 3 and up.
For more info (Facebook event):
https://www.facebook.com/events/2199675863628284/?active_tab=about

Sunday, April 14
*Title of Event: Wordier’s 1K Walk and Write (or Read)
Description of event: Have you ever lamented not having enough time to read or write when you get home from work or when the kids are in bed? Well, here’s your chance to make some time for your creative work or for that book you’ve been meaning to pick up!

Part 1K. Part writing workshop. Part silent read-in. Part walking tour of St. Pete. Part pub crawl. There’s something for everyone at Wordier’s 1K Walk and Write (or Read).

We’ll travel in a pack from The Hangar Restaurant & Flight Lounge at Albert Whitted Airport to The Ale & The Witch, stopping at various points along the way for 15 minutes of free writing. For those who choose to read at each stop instead, bring a book!

If you have something you’re already working on, then by all means – keep at it! But if you’re looking to start something new and don’t find inspiration in your surroundings, we’ll have writing prompts for writers to select at each stop.

This is neither a timed nor certified 1K course. Wordier Than Thou will announce when there are three minutes left to each writing period. Writers can also choose to get group texts announcing the completion of each stop. If you choose to stay behind because you’ve been hit by inspiration, awesome! Follow our schedule or keep up with us on social media to see where we are later in the afternoon.
Contact Name and Number: Tiffany Razzano
Location: Departs from The Hanger Restaurant- 540 1st St. SE, St. Pete
Time: 1:30-4:30pm
Cost: $20
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/397541350672762/

Monday, April 15
Title of Event: Author Talk with Paul Wilborn
Description of event: Join The Friends of Mirror Lake Library and our partners Keep St. Pete Lit, as we welcome local author Paul Wilborn and photographer/filmmaker David Audet to share stories, photos and graphics at an event that celebrates the publication of Wilborn’s new book, Cigar City: Tales From a 1980s Creative Ghetto, published April 1, 2019 by St. Petersburg Press.

Cigar City is a collection of linked short stories about the young artists, writers, poets, musicians and actors who inhabited Tampa’s Ybor City in the 1980s. Drawn by urban authenticity and cheap rents, they created a surreal, chaotic, arts scene set against the backdrop of the empty cigar factories and shotgun shacks of Tampa’s immigrant district. The Ybor scene drew international artists like James Rosenquist, Jim Dine, Chuck Close, among many others and mirrored what was happening at the same time in other districts, including New York’s Alphabet City.

The stories are fictional but they capture the spirit of the district during that vibrant period. Photographs and graphics by Audet and Bud Lee, the internationally known photographer who was at the center of the Ybor arts renaissance, illustrate Cigar City.

Both Wilborn and Audet worked closely with Lee, a photographer for Life, Esquire, Rolling Stone and other major publications. The three were among the founding members of the Artists and Writers Group, which produced surreal, multi-media arts events in Tampa and Sarasota, that drew thousands of revelers. They also produced the literary and arts journal, Tabloid. Lee died in 2015.

As a journalist, Wilborn won top writing awards while working for the St. Petersburg Times, the Tampa Tribune and the Associated Press. He is executive director of the Palladium Theater in St. Petersburg. Cigar City is his first work of fiction.

Audet is a photographer, filmmaker and teacher. He has continued to produce literary, film and other events under the non-profit Artists and Writers Group, including the annual Cuban Sandwich Show, in Tampa.

The SunLit event will include readings by Wilborn, and photos and graphics from the era by Audet and Lee.

Seating starts at 5:00. Opening remarks begin at 5:30 followed by the author’s talk. A reception & book signing will be held from 6:30 to 7:00.
Contact Name and Number: Mirror Lake Library (727) 893-7268
Location: Mirror Lake Library- 280 5th St. N, St. Pete
Time: 5:30-7:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/297970460884306/

Tuesday, April 16
Title of Event: Howl: A Night of Poetry and Music
Description of event: Hosted by Friends of The Jack Kerouac House. Join us in an evening of live music and a reading of Allen Ginsberg’s “Howl” at the Old Key West Bar and Grill. Musical Acts will be The Florida Boys, Grant Peeples and Ronnie Elliot. Readers of “Howl” will be Bob Devin Jones and Peter Meinke with more readers to be announced soon.
Contact Name and Number: Peter Gallagher (727) 510-5474
Location: Old Key West Bar and Grill- 2451 Central Ave, St. Pete
Time: 7:00-10:00pm
Cost: FREE. Donations are encouraged.
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/386956135469132/

Wednesday, April 17
Title of Event: Creative Loafing’s (F’n) Fiction Contest Award Ceremony
Description of event: CL’s Fiction Contest returns this year with a twist: Instead of a single-word theme, write a story using one of the five prompts below as your first sentence. We’ve chosen these prompts from Tampa author Matt Starr’s F’n Prompts: Writing Prompts with Some F’n Balls. As part of this year’s SunLit Festival — organized by literary cheerleading squad Keep St. Pete Lit and expanding to Tampa this year — on April 17 we’ll invite the finalists to read their work at the awards ceremony at the CL Space, then we’ll announce the winner.
Contact Name and Number: Cathy Salustri, (727) 656-5420
Location: CL Space- 1911 N 13th St, Tampa
Time: 7:00-9:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/844220082637046/

Thursday, April 18
Title of Event: Poem in Your Pocket Day Art Installation
Description of event: Join us in celebrating Poem in Your Pocket Day this year!.

Step One: select a poem or write a poem.

Step Two: cut a pocket from an old piece of clothing.

Step Three: place your poem in the pocket.

Step Four: join other poetry-loving people from our community and place your poem and pocket on the rear fence of the ArtsXchange (we have clothespins!).

Step Five: snap a photo of you and your poem and share with others. #poeminyourpocketday #sunlitfestival

Let’s create a world full of poetry!
Contact Name and Number: Emily Page (727) 256-0821
Location: ArtsXchange- 515 22nd Street South, St. Pete (rear parking lot along fence)
Time: 12:00-4:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/323000551901331/

Title of Event: Lector Social Club w/ Cigar City Journal
Description of event: We’re very excited to lend our stage to several writers and poets for SunLit Fest this year! This bi-lingual event features Jonathan Simkins, Sarah Escue, Marielle Grenade-Willis, and Guillermo Parra.
Contact Name and Number: (813)223-2337
Location: Lector Social Club: A Lit & Natty Wine Shoppe- 305 E Polk St, Tampa
Time: 6:30-8:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/258541031760491/

Title of Event: Staged Reading of Art People
Description of event: Art People, a play by Mark E. Leib (first produced Off-Broadway), is about the lives, loves and occupational hazards of eleven difference artists – from a narcissistic dancer, a cash-strapped novelist and a viciously competitive cinematographer to a star-struck young poet, a scandalously honest monologuist, and a songwriter trying to forget his youthful ambitions. This is a play about the real lives of artists, the facts of which are usually kept hidden from admiring audiences. It’s a crazy life, being an opera singer, poet, violinist, or painter…and Art People is about that special insanity.
Contact Name and Number: (727) 895-6620
Location: The Studio@620- 620 1st Ave S, St. Pete
Time: 7:00pm
Cost: $10
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/798522893843936/

Friday, April 19
Title of Event: Porch Party: Gulfport Trolley
Description of event: Getting Gulfported: How the trolley brought people to Gulfport — and beyond. Celebrate the official dedication of Trolley Market Square as an historic site in Gulfport. The Gulfport Historical Society will have kids activities, live music from the Urban Gypsies, and they’ll unveil the new historic marker and their brand-new walking tour.
Co-sponsored by the City of Gulfport and the Gulfport Merchants Association.
Contact Name and Number: Cathy Salustri, (727) 656-5420
Location: Trolley Market Square- Intersection of 49 St. S. & Tangerine, Gulfport
Time: 7:00-10:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/558210228025480/

Saturday, April 20
Title of Event: Baked in the Florida Sun: A Benefit for Keep St. Pete Lit
Description of event: Join us for an exciting outdoor festival and fundraiser in support of KEEP ST. PETE LIT’s Children’s Literacy Programs!

This celebration of local poetry and visual art will include a sculptural installation by local artist Chad Mize and poetry readings by local poets, including honored guest and Florida Poet Laureate Peter Meinke.

Music by Hello Darlin’ Records, local literary vendors including PRINT ST. PETE Community Letterpress, Dilly Dally’s, Tombolo Books, Bluebird Books Bus, food trucks, Posies Flower Truck, coffee provided by Black Crow Coffee Co Old Northeast, donation bar supported by Green Bench Brewing Co., and more!

Baked in the Florida Sun is open to the public for $5 donation at the gate from 5:30pm – 8:30pm.

Baked in the Florida Sun will also feature an Artist Private Party including a curated conversation with Peter Meinke and Chad Mize on creating art inspired by Florida, access to an exclusive Chad Mize gallery, music, open bar & catering.

The private party begins at 7pm. Tickets can be purchased for $50 at the door or in advance
All proceeds go to Keep St. Pete Lit Children’s Literary Programming.
Contact Name and Number: Jessica Durham (727) 820-1721
Location: Behar + Peteranecz Architecture – 2340 Terminal Dr. S., St. Pete
Time: 5:30-8:30pm General Admission; Private Party starts at 7:00pm
Cost: $5 at the gate for outdoor event. Private party tickets can be purchased for $50 at the door or in advance online here: https://www.brownpapertickets.com/event/4103503
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/300000250609386/

Monday, April 22
Title of Event: A Celebration of the Erotic
Description of event: What is erotic writing? Popular or high-minded? 50 Shades of Gray or Lady Chatterley’s Lover? Is the erotic about one’s own body or relationships between bodies? Must it illuminate the sensual and avoid the explicitly sexual? Is it best when it comes from a place of fantasy or is the job of the erotic to light up ordinary experiences from the inside out? Most of all, why is erotic literature even important in this #MeToo moment, in this time when gay marriage is still new, when we are still arguing about what bodies can go into what bathrooms? Audre Lorde has written, “when we begin to live from within outward, in touch with the power of the erotic within ourselves, and allowing that power to inform and illuminate our actions upon the world around us, then we begin to be responsible to ourselves in the deepest sense. For as we begin to recognize our deepest feelings, we begin to give up, of necessity, being satisfied with suffering and self-negation, and with the numbness which so often seems like their only alternative in our society. Our acts against oppression become integral with self, motivated and empowered from within.“

Featured Readers: Lisa Birnbaum, Amber DiPietra, Maureen McDole, and Enid Shomer.

Readers will present from their own erotic work as well as share pieces by other writers. A panel discussion is to follow the readings. We welcome Tombolo Books, who will be on hand selling current and classic works from the erotic lit canon. And, to keep the juicy conversation flowing, there will be a cash bar. 18+ audience only, please.
Contact Name and Number: Maureen McDole (727) 798-4530
Location: Venus- 244 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. St. N., St. Pete
Time: 7:00- 9:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/303335780359771/

Tuesday, April 23
Title of Event: Literary Trivia Night and Costume Contest
Description of event: Come test your literary trivia skills! Show the world you are well-read!
There will be a literary themed costume contest with cash prizes. Dress as your favorite character or book and the audience will vote for the winner. We will have a signature literary drink for the event.
Contact Name and Number: Maureen McDole (727) 798-4530
Location: SubCentral at Iberian Rooster – 475 Central Ave. Suite 100, St. Pete
Time: 7:00-9:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/2076146189173523/

Wednesday, April 24
Title of Event: The Long and Short of It: The Relevance of Dark Fiction & Horror in Our Time
Description of event: Why are dark fiction and horror breaking mainstream ground in today’s TV, movies, and literature like never before? Join popular Florida authors of dark fiction Steph Post, Kenzie Jennings, F. F. Amati, and K. L. Nappier in an audience discussion about the many ways these genres are speaking to our times. Book signing to follow.
Contact: K. L. Nappier via Facebook Event Page
Location (with address): Books at Park Place- NEW LOCATION! – 6800 Gulfport Blvd., South Pasadena, FL. (Next to Quest Diagnostics)
Time: 7:00 p.m.
Cost: FREE and Open to the Public
For more info (Facebook event): https://www.facebook.com/events/858859447789518/

Thursday, April 25
Title of Event: Literary Carousel at MFA
Description of event: Join us for the 3rd Annual Literary Carousel! Photography from the MFA archives COMES ALIVE through the art of the “Ekphrastic,” a literary interpretation of a piece of visual art. Hand-picked images get the prose and poetry treatment, read live to you. Come join us for this one-of-a-kind event for Literature- and Photography -Lovers alike!

Participating writers:
Roy Peter Clark
Lee Irby
Lisa Kirchner
Cindy Stovall
Jon Kile
Shelly Wilson
Silvia Curbelo
Maureen McDole

Inspired by the experience of an old-fashioned slideshow, the Carousel series allows bay area photographers to present work before a live audience, promoting discussion and strengthening our local arts network. For this very special Literary Carousel at the MFA, the photos will be selected from the photographic collection at the Museum of Fine Arts, and paired with local writers for the 2019 SunLit Festival.
Contact Name and Number: Todd Bates (206) 225- 4993
Location: Museum of Fine Arts- 255 Beach Dr. NE., St. Pete
Time: 6:30- 8:00pm
Cost: The event is included with museum admission: $10 after 5 pm for non-members and free admission for members.
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/784353521947599/

Friday, April 26 – Sunday April 28
Title of Event: Antiquarian Book Fair
Description of event: The Florida Antiquarian Book Fair is the oldest and largest fair of its kind in the Southeastern United States. The 38th annual Book Fair will be presented in St. Petersburg’s Historic Coliseum, April 26-28, 2019. The book fair features dealers specializing in books of every age and subject matter, antique maps, ephemera and other paper collectibles. You can follow us on the Florida Antiquarian Book Fair Blog and on our Facebook event page.
Contact Name and Number: (727) 822-3278
Location: St. Petersburg’s Historic Coliseum: 535 4th Avenue N., St. Pete
Time: April 26, 5:00- 9:00pm; April 27, 10:00am-5:00pm; April 28, 11:00am-4:00pm
Cost: Friday evening’s admission, which includes a live music performance, is $10; the ticket is good for the entire weekend. Saturday’s admission is $10 for the weekend or $6 for the day. Sunday’s admission is $6 for the day and includes a free appraisal by members of the Florida Bibliophile Society. Children 12 and under, and students with valid identification, are free. Parking is free. Get tickets here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/2019-florida-antiquarian-book-fair-tickets-53792482764?aff=Facebook&fbclid=IwAR3IhQsok8xQr2HZ_AEQIsa2NTDurwRtgNPztloCl8GzPS2KVuLQYklvpeI
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/212591186330429/

Title of Event: Poets & Lizards: A SunLit Celebration of New Southern Writing
Description of event: Join four southern writers as they launch new books of poetry and fiction.

CYNTHIA ARRIEU-KING is an associate professor of creative writing at Stockton University and a former Kundiman fellow. Her books include People are Tiny in Paintings of China (Octopus Books 2010), Manifest, winner of the Gatewood Prize selected by Harryette Mullen (Switchback Books 2013) and Futureless Languages (Radiator Press 2018). Her poems have appeared in the Tiny, Poetry, BOMB Magazine, and TriQuarterly.

C.H. HOOKS is the author of the novel, Alligator Zoo-Park Magic (Bridge Eight Press 2019). His short works have been published in print and online publications, including American Short Fiction (Bourbon & Milk) and Burrowpress (Fantastic Floridas). He was a Contributor at Sewanee Writers’ Conference in 2018, a Reader for the 2017 & 2018 DISQUIET Literary Prize, and attended DISQUIET: Dzanc Books International Literary Program in Lisbon, Portugal in 2017. He is a Lecturer at the College of Coastal Georgia.

SOHAM PATEL is a Kundiman fellow and an assistant editor at Fence and The Georgia Review. Her chapbooks include and nevermind the storm (Portable Press @ Yo-Yo Labs, 2013) New Weather Drafts (Portable Press @ Yo-Yo Labs, 2016), and in airplane and other poems (oxeye, 2018). She is the author also of the full-length collections to afar from afar (Writ Large, 2018) and ever really hear it (Subito, 2018), winner of the 2017 Subito Prize.

CALEB MICHAEL SARVIS is a writer from Jacksonville, Florida. He is the author of Dead Aquarium (Mastodon Publishing 2019). He is the managing editor for Bridge Eight Press and co-host of the Drunken Book Review Podcast. His work can be found in Volt, Hobart, Split Lip Magazine, Saw Palm, others. You can read his column on FX’s Atlanta at barrelhousemag.com/
Contact Name and Number: (813) 223- 2337
Location: Lector Social Club: A Lit & Natty Wine Shoppe- 305 E Polk St, Tampa
Time: 6:00-9:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/297961237554238/

Title of Event: “One In Ten”
Description of Event: A one act play about the well-kept secret of adult illiteracy. A fundraiser for The Literacy Council of St. Petersburg
Contact Name and Number: Literacy Council of St. Petersburg, 727-521-1117; litcouncilstpete@gmail.com; facebook.com/litcouncilstpete
Location: Sunshine Center Auditorium, 330 5th St. No.
Time: Doors open 6:30; play begins at 7:00
Cost: $20 Adults; $10 under 16; Beverages available for cash donation before and after play.
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/363475437593538/

Saturday, April 27
Title of Event: KidsLit!: Poetry in the Gardens
Description of event: Join us in The Legacy Gardens at The Carter G. Woodson Museum! Cultured Books + The WORD! Initiative will host Poetry in the Gardens. An afternoon of exploring #socialjustice poetry. There will be poetry stations, storytime, and a stage where even our littlest poets will have a chance to perform their work!
Bring the whole family!
Contact Name and Number:
Location: Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum- 2490 9th Ave S., St. Pete
Time: 12:00-2:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/801791676821167/

Title of Event: Writers, Authors, and Winners
Description of event: Two local writers and a researcher will discuss their latest work and answer questions about the journey to publishing. Maureen McDole, founder/executive director of KEEP ST. PETE LIT, is moderator.

Kristen Hare on her guide book, “100 Things To Do In Tampa Bay.”

Cal Branche, a John D. MacDonald archivist

Gale Massey, Florida Book Award winner, on her novel “The Girl From Blind River”

Winners will be announced of the SunLit short story contest, a 1,500 word or less (three or four pages, original story beginning with the words, “When I/he/she opened my/his/hers eyes, light the color of (choose a color) filled the room.”

(Gender-neutral pronouns also acceptable.) Winners must be present to receive their prizes. Winners will be announced on Saturday, April 27, 2019 beginning at 2 p.m.

Submit double-spaced Word or PDF to froelichjanis@yahoo.com before 11:59 p.m. on April 13, 2019. First prize $100. Second prize $50. Young writers (18 and younger) $100.

Co-sponsored by Friends of the St. Petersburg Main Library. Refreshments will be served.

Contact Name and Number: Janet Froelich- froelichjanis@yahoo.com
Location: St. Petersburg Main Library, 3745 9th Ave. N., St. Pete
Time: 2:00-4:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/321395528576959/

Title of Event: Rob Sanders Stonewall Book Performance and Reading
Description of event: Celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the Stonewall Uprising with the very first picture book to tell of its historic and inspiring role in the gay civil rights movement!

Join us for a readers theater with author Rob Sanders, Studio @620 artistic director Bob Devin Jones, and an ensemble cast!

Q&A with the author and a TOMBOLO BOOKS BOOK SIGNING will follow the performance. Books may be pre-ordered from Tombolo or may be purchased at the event.

OPEN TO ALL AGES

From Rob Sanders, Florida Book Award winner and author of the acclaimed Pride: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag, comes this powerful and timeless true story that will allow young readers to discover the rich and dynamic history of the Stonewall Inn and its role in the LGBTQ+ civil rights movement–a movement that continues to this very day.

In the early-morning hours of June 28, 1969, the Stonewall Inn was raided by police in New York City. Though the inn had been raided before, that night would be different. It would be the night when empowered members of the LGBTQ+ community–in and around the Stonewall Inn–began to protest and demand their equal rights as citizens of the United States. Movingly narrated by the Stonewall Inn itself, and featuring stirring and dynamic illustrations, Stonewall: A Building. An Uprising. A Revolution is an essential and empowering civil rights story that every child deserves to hear.
Contact Name and Number: Alsace Walentine (828) 777-3741
Location: The Studio@620- 620 1st Ave S., St. Pete
Time: 6:00-8:00pm
Cost: FREE
For more info: https://www.facebook.com/events/304254770189492/

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TAMPA, Fla. (February 21, 2019) – Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture & the Arts (TBBCA) is thrilled to continue the strong annual pARTnership with Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts for TBBCA Chalk Walk. The free, fun, family friendly live art experience will feature eight specially commissioned chalk artists bringing their special genre of art to life Saturday, March 2nd from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. under the eaves of the Tampa Museum of Art. The 49th Gasparilla Festival of the Arts in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and Kiley Garden continues through the weekend, and the final chalk art will be on display through Sunday March 3rd until 4 PM. Back by popular demand, a specially commissioned high school chalk artist will demonstrate her talents over both Saturday and Sunday in the Festival’s VIP area.

“We are proud to offer this TBBCA Chalk Walk once again at the heart of downtown Tampa with our valued Cultural pARTner Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts,” says Susana Weymouth, Executive Director of TBBCA. “It is a great opportunity to support talented and technically skilled artists of this genre while providing a creative live art experience and accessible program for all ages and levels of art appreciation. TBBCA Chalk Walks help attract the public to area cultural offerings and businesses.”

“Our Board of Directors and Festival Committee are proud to present the 49th Annual Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, one of the America’s premier juried outdoor art shows, featuring over 250 of the nation’s most talented visual and performing artists,” says GFA President, Andy George. “This year’s show will again feature a diverse mix of work in a variety of disciplines, including ceramic, digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor, and wood.” In the past, the festival has attracted tens of thousands of visitors from across the region.

About TBBCA

Tampa Bay BCA (TBBCA) is a nonprofit organization founded in 1989, one of 11 national Business Committees for the Arts, part of the private sector network of Americans for the Arts. TBBCA mission is to unite Tampa Bay area businesses to champion arts education, arts and culture for a prosperous community, ‘the arts are good for business, and business is good for the arts.’ TBBCA provides advocacy, resources and support for arts and cultural organizations, artists, and arts education, and builds awareness of arts and culture as important economic drivers in our community and essential contributors to our quality of life. For information contact TBBCA Executive Director susanaweymouth@tbbca.org or (813) 221-2787, or visit www.tbbca.org.

About GFA
Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, Inc. (GFA) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation dedicated to producing an annual, premier juried outdoor art festival for the enjoyment and education of patrons, artists and guests as well as for the enhancement of the Tampa Bay area’s cultural arts. GFA relies on support from sponsorships, grants, on-site retail sales, and corporate and individual donations to fund its programs and events. The Tampa-based organization is led entirely by volunteers. For more information, please visit GFA’s website at www.gasparillaarts.org or call (813) 876-1747.

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