CITRUS GROVES ONCE JUICED LOCAL ECONOMY...MAYOR - Patricia Gerard COMMISSIONERS — Mary Gray Black...

FEBRUARY / 2009 ISSUE 7

PRESORTED STDU S POSTAGE

P A I DPerm

it No.39Clearw

ater,FL

The area that today encompasses Largo and theBelleairs has roots that stretch back to the mid-1800s. Pioneer settlers were attracted by anabundance of land suitable for agriculture, andwaters teeming with fish. Plentiful wildlife and awarm sunny climate were other pluses.The newcomers, who included members of theBelcher, Hamlin, Hammock, Lowe, Meares,McMullen, Taylor and Whitehurst families, wereapparently pleased by what they encountered.Their descendants would play prominent roles inthe community's future for years to come.Cattle ranches, citrus groves and vegetable farmswere expanding across the landscape when theOrange Belt Railroad arrived in 1888, making itsway from Clearwater to St. Petersburg. Shippingof produce was less costly, speedier and morereliable, giving the local economy a big boost.The area's largest settlement needed a name,and Lake Largo, a prominent local body ofwater, provided the inspiration. Largo, meaninglarge, proved an appropriate indicator of thearea's future growth. By the early 1900s, citrus groves were winningthe competition with cattle ranches andvegetable farms for agricultural land. Sawmillswere turning the neighboring pine woods intolumber for new homes and commercialconstruction. Leftover pines were tapped forturpentine distilling.Tourism centered around Belleair's palatial resorthotel, the Belleview. A 1918 brochure by

Pinellas County Board of Trade describes Belleairas "a pretty resort, made up chiefly of elegantwinter homes and the beautiful Belleview Hoteland grounds." The resort was known for "two ofthe most famous 18-hole golf courses in thecountry."Commerce and agriculture continued to definethe region through the early decades of thetwentieth century, with citrus packing playing adominant role. Major citrus packers includedIndian Rocks Fruits, operated by Harry Ulmer, and J.S. Hill Groves, spread out along Oakhurstand Indian Rocks Road. By the 1930s, John S.Taylor Groves was shipping over 2 million boxesof fruit a year to markets nationwide.Citrus groves continued to dominate thelandscape until the decades following World WarII, when fruit trees by the thousands were plowedunder to make way for the region's biggest "cashcrop" ever - real estate development.A diverse housing stock included single and multi-family dwellings, condos and apartments,appealing to a wide range of income levels.Businesses and shopping centers also took theirplace in the mix.Lost in the transition were the former economicmainstays… farming, cattle and citrus growing.Pinellas County's last commercial citrusoperation, locally owned OrangeBlossom Groves, sold out in2005.

Citrus became the Belleair and Largo area settler’s primary crop. Pictured here are Daniel McMullen, on the right, withhis daughter Nannie and son-in-law James Hardage. Photo courtesy of Courtesy of Largo Library and Largo Historical Society, Circa 1900.

Find more stories like this in IInnddiiaann RRoocckkss AAss IItt WWaass, available at the HistoricalMuseum in Indian Rocks Beach, $20 each, proceeds benefit the Historical Society.

By Wayne Ayers,Author andHistorian

CCIITTRRUUSS GGRROOVVEESS OONNCCEE ""JJUUIICCEEDD"" LLOOCCAALL EECCOONNOOMMYY

BBEELLLLEEAAIIRR AARREEAA NNEEIIGGHHBBOORRHHOOOODD NNEEWWSSLLEETTTTEERR

CITY NUMBERSCITY OF BELLEAIR BLUFFSwww.belleairbluffs.org2747 Sunset Blvd City Hall: 584-2151

FIRE DEPT: 584-8392 SHERIFF: 582-6200MAYOR - Chris Arbutine, Sr COMMISSIONERS —

Troy Krotz - Vice Mayor • Robert RussoHunt Brand • David Shimkus

CITY OF BELLEAIR BEACHwww.cityofbelleairbeach.com444 Causeway Blvd City Hall: 595-4646

FIRE DEPT: 595-1117POLICE: 595-4646MAYOR - Lynn Rives COMMISSIONERS — Kathy Mortensen -

Vice Mayor • Mitchell Krach • StanSofer Mary Schoonover • RichardCrowl • Rob Baldwin

TOWN OF BELLEAIR SHOREwww.belleairshore.com1200 Gulf Blvd, Belleair Shore 593-9296

FIRE DEPT: 595-1117POLICE DEPT: 595-4646MAYOR: John A. Robertson COMMISSIONERS — John E. Hayes, Jr.Carl W. Hilton • Robert E. Schmidt, Jr.Ray Piscitelli

TOWN OF BELLEAIRwww.townofbelleair-fl.gov901 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Belleair 588-3769

FIRE DEPT: 588-8392POLICE DEPT: 588-3769MAYOR - Gary H. KaticaCOMMISSIONERS — Stephen R. Fowler

Deputy Mayor• Tom Shelly• KarlaRettstatt• Stephanie Oddo

CITY OF LARGO www.Largo.com201 Highland Ave, Largo Info: 587-6700

FIRE DEPT: 587-6714POLICE: 586-7427MAYOR - Patricia GerardCOMMISSIONERS — Mary Gray Black

Andy Guyette • Rodney J. WoodsGigi Arntzen • Harriet K. CrozierGay Gentry

BELLEAIR FINE ARTS SOCIETY 934-4304FRIENDS OF THE BILTMORE 581-5171BELLEAIR SINGLE SENIORS 581-6189BEACH SINGLES CLUB 415-9496CLEARWATER SAILING 517-7776

BELLEAIR AREA ROTARY CLUBMeets at Belleair Country Club every Thur. forlunch; Ed Shaughnessy . . . . . . . 461-7171BELLEAIR BLUFFS ROTARY CLUBMeets at Jorge's Seafood Grill Tues. 6:15PMPat France, President . . . . . . . . 581-0519BLUFFS BUSINESS ASSOCIATIONKim Bender, President . . . . . . . . 559-7881 TOWN OF BELLEAIR CIVIC ASSOC.Sandy Tuten, President . . . . . . . 581-7314BELLEAIR YOUNG WOMAN’S SOCIETYNettie Thomas. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 585-5464EMERGENCIES: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-1-1SHERIFF NON-EMERGENCIES 582-6200SHERIFF DISPATCH . . . . . . . . . 582-6177PINELLAS COUNTY INFO . . . . 464-3000CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

Gulf Beaches . . . . . . . . . . . . 360-6957Clearwater Beach . . . . . . . . 447-7600Largo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 584-2321

ELECTRICITY . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 443-2641PHONE (Residential) . . . . . 800-483-4000PHONE (Business) . . . . . . . 800-483-5000WATER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 464-4000CABLE (Bright House) . . . . . . . . 329-5020-------------------------------------------------COUNTY INFORMATION . . . . 464-3000COMMISSION OFFICES. . . . . . 464-3377

Calvin Harris . . . . . . . . . . . 464-3360Karen Seel . . . . . . . . . . . . . 464-3278

STATE:Senator Dennis Jones . . . . 727-549-6411

Republican, District 138940 Seminole Blvd, Seminole [email protected]

Representative Jim Frishe . 727-518-3902Republican, District 54125 Indian Rocks Rd, Belleair [email protected]

Governor Charlie [email protected]

FLORIDA UNITED STATES SENATORS:Mel Martinez . . . . . . . . . . 202-224-3041

www.Martinez.Senate.govBill Nelson . . . . . . . . . . . . . 202-224-5274

www.BillNelson.Senate.govAREA UNITED STATES REPRESENTATIVE:Rep Bill Young . . . . . . . . . . 727-394-6950

9210 113th St, Seminole, FL 33772www.house.gov/young

FFEEBBRRUUAARRYYBeach Art Center Watercolor Show 7Voter Registration Deadline 8Bluff’s Business Assn Mixer 12Valentine’s Day (Sat) 14Presidents Day (Monday) 16Winterfest on the Rocks 21Little League begins 21Taste of Largo 21MARCHDaylight Savings Time Begins 8Election Day - Tuesday 10Bluff’s Business Assn Mixer 12Great American Clean Up 21 St Patrick’s Day - Tuesday 17IRB Boat Club Meeting 19APRILGuppy’s Gulfside Gallop 5K Run 4

Beauty and The Beach Art Show 4Heritage Village World War II Event 4Bluff’s Business Assn Mixer 9Good Friday 10Antique Car Show Heritage Village 11Easter 12Federal Income Taxes Due 15Earth Day 2008 22IRB’s Biggest Beach Party Ever 25MAYLoggerhead Turtle Season Begins 1Cinco de Mayo (Tuesday) 5Postal Workers / Food Drive 9Mother’s Day 10Bluff’s Business Assn Mixer 14Heritage Village Civil War Days 16Safe Boating Week 18-24Memorial Day (Monday) 25

CREDITS

2009 CALENDAR OF LOCAL EVENTS

This newsletter is published byGRIFFIN PRODUCTIONS, Inc.and is mailed to occupiedresidence and business in BelleairBeach, Belleair Bluffs, HarborBluffs, and part of Largo. We arenot officially associated with anycity government.

PUBLISHERBob & Becky Griffin

ART DIRECTIONBecky Griffin

SALES727-517-1997

CONTACT INFOP.O. BOX 1314

Indian Rocks Beach, FL 33785517-1997 ~ 517-1998 FAX

BeachNewsletters.comPublished Feb l May l Aug l Nov

Please send comments tobboobb@@ggrriiffff iinnddiirreeccttoorriieess..ccoomm

NEXT ISSUE IS MAYDo you need another copy of thisnewsletter. You may pick upadditional copies of thisnewsletter at All City Halls, Surf &Turf Market, Wachovia and theBelleair Food Mart. Need a lotmore? Call 517-1997. This newsletter is printed everyother month and survives on localadvertising. Please support thepeople advertising here. If youare an Belleair resident you get adiscount when you advertise. Wealso offer discounts foradvertising in our other issues,Madeira Beach, Belleair Area andDowntown St. Petersburg. Call me for the next issue. Formore information, or to read ourother issues online, visitBeachNewsletters.com

© 2009 Griffin Productions, Inc.


NNEEWW BBEEAACCHH RREECCYYCCLLIINNGG!! PinellasCounty is planning a new beachrecycling program that will placerecycling containers next to allgarbage cans on our beachescountywide. These containers willcollect both aluminum cans andplastic. A four month pilot program,at three County Beach accesses,recovered 2.4 tons of recyclables. Allexpenses are being paid for by agrant to the county. They hope tohave everything in place this fall._______________________________NNEEWW LLIIGGHHTTIINNGG Belleair Bluffs is upgrading the lightingon their side of the new Belleair Causeway Bridge. Thenew light poles will be installed from Indian Rocks Roadto the bridge. The cost of the new lights had alreadybeen approved last year. ___________________________________________________BBOOAATT CCLLUUBB Indian Rocks Beach has a new Boat Club,but you do not have to live in IRB to be a member. Theymeet at least six times a year, hold island parties, go torestaurants by boat, and participate in environmentalclean-ups. There is no cost to join. The next meeting isMarch 19 at Marlin Time Sports Bar (inside Brewmasters)happy hour at 6pm, and the meeting is at 7pm. Call517-1997, email [email protected] or visitIRBhome.com for more information. ___________________________________________________FFLLOORRIIDDAA BBOOTTAANNIICCAALL GGAARRDDEENNSS MMOONNEEYY PPRROOBBLLEEMMSS Withthe county’s difficult financial situation, the Garden’sbudget has been cut, resulting in more lay-offs. They aredesperately seeking donations and volunteers. During theholidays, they were able to collect $9500 from visitors totheir holiday lighting display, but that won’t last long. If youwould like to volunteer or donate money, call 727-582-2100, or email [email protected]. They are also looking forpeople to fill vacant board positions.___________________________________________________BBEELLLLVVIIEEWW BBIILLTTMMOORREE The resort is scheduled to close atthe end of May, and undergo a complete remodel. The42 month project will be supervised by Ron Harn, whogrew up in Belleair. He is employed by SkanskaConstruction. Friends of the Belleview will be holding aseries of activities leading up to the hotel closing. AGarden Party, to clean up the grounds, will be held Feb.15th starting at 9:00 am. April 12th is an Easter EggHunt and on May 30th a picnic and pool party areplanned. Visit www.BelleviewBiltmore.com under Friendsof the Biltmore for details.______________________CCHHAARRGGEE IITT UUPP!! Over itslifetime, a singlerechargeable batterymay substitute forhundreds of single-usebatteries. When givinggifts that use batteries,consider also givingrechargeable batteriesand/or battery chargers.It saves money and cutswaste.

Did You Know...


FEBRUARY EVENTS IN LARGOAAccoouussttiicc AAllcchheemmyy, Feb. 6, 8:00 pm, Largo CulturalCenter; Contemporary Jazz. TTrraaiinn WWeeeekkeenndd, Feb. 7 & 8, 10:00 am - 4:00 pm LargoCentral Park; Ride the miniature trains of Largo CentralRailroad on the first full weekend every month There isno charge for this family-fun activity.WWooooffssttoocckk,, Feb. 7, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm, Largo CentralPark; This 1960s theme dog event features music,demonstrations, contests, pet accessories vendors & more! JJoonn SSeeccaaddaa, Feb. 8, 2:00 pm, Largo Cultural Center;Winner Best Latin Pop album and Best Latin PopPerformer Grammy Awards.AAllll TThhaatt GGlliitttteerrss JJeewweellrryy SShhooww, Feb. 8, 10:00 am - 4:00pm, Ulmer Park; Treat yourself or your sweetheart to atthis shiny new jewelry show!TThhuurrssddaayy HHaarrvveesstt MMaarrkkeettppllaaccee, Every Thursday, Feb. 12,19, and 26, 9:00 am - 2:00 pm, Ulmer Park. SSuunnsseett SSoouunnddss aatt UUllmmeerr PPaarrkk, Feb. 13, 7:00 - 9:00 pm,Ulmer Park; Second Friday each month, a differentmusical group entertains, bring your lawn chairs.VVaalleennttiinnee''ss DDaayy DDeelliigghhtt, Feb. 14, 9:00am - 12:00pmLargo Central Park Nature Preserve; Tai Chi, kayaking,massage, lunch and more. Preregistration required byFeb 11. Call 518-3047 for info.FFaaiirreess,, IInncc.., Produced by Moving Arts of Tampa Bay,Feb. 14, 7:30 pm & Feb. 15th, 2:00 pm, LargoCultural Center; Cirque-style celebration in Dance,Circus Arts and Musical Theater.LLaarrggoo,, SSoo YYoouu TThhiinnkk YYoouu CCaann DDaannccee, Feb. 15th, at2:00 - 6:00 pm, Largo Community Center; Enjoy localtalent and compete for the title of best dancer/dancersin Pinellas County. Call Craig Dolan, 727-518-3146.TThhee 3311sstt AAnnnnuuaall DDaaddddyy DDaauugghhtteerr DDaattee NNiigghhtt, Feb. 21,6:00 - 9:30 pm, Highland Recreation Complex; WildWild West themed dancing, games, and activities.TTaassttee ooff LLaarrggoo, Feb. 21, 5 - 10 pm, Ulmer Park; Localrestaurants serve tastes of their specialties. Live music,beer & wine. Call 727-776-7261more info.FFoouurr BBiittcchhiinn'' BBaabbeess, Hormonal Imbalance Feb. 26, 7:30pm, Largo Cultural Center; A hilarious new showcelebrating the best of babes, boys and botox. RRooggeerr MMccGGuuiinnnn ooff tthhee BByyrrddss, Feb. 27, 8:00 pm, LargoCultural Center. GGeennee LLoovveess JJeezzeebbeell, Feb. 28, 8:00 pm, Largo CulturalCenter; One of the defining rock bands of the 80's.Opening act is Julliet. WWiiffffllee BBaallll TToouurrnnaammeenntt, Feb. 28, 9:00 am, SouthwestComplex; 13120 Vonn Rd. Southwest's first annualwiffle ball tournament. Register by Feb. 13 - 518-3125.


A NEW YEAR!By Jim Frishe, Rep., District 54First and most importantly - my bestwishes to each and every one of youfor a happy, healthy and prosperousNew Year. I hope that 2009 will be agreat year for each of you.This article is going to be differentfrom my previously published articles.I believe it is appropriate, at the beginning of a NewYear, to take a few minutes to reflect. We live in a country that has been blessed for hundredsof years with: The RIGHT to speak our minds without fear. We havethe OBLIGATION to do so in a peaceful, respectful andlawful way. The RIGHT to worship as we see fit withoutrepercussions. We have the OBLIGATION to do so yetnot prevent others from exercising this same right. The RIGHT to vote for whichever candidate we,ourselves, believe is the best person for the job. Wehave the OBLIGATION to be respectful of whomever thevoters may select to represent them.The RIGHT to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.We have the never-ending OBLIGATION to makecertain that we never, ever give up this right.As a nation, a state, and local communities, we arefacing major difficulties such as many of us have neverfaced before and some of us have experienced in ourpast. These difficulties are making life more difficult fora good portion of our population BUT, even with thesedifficulties, we still have RIGHTS that many, manycitizens throughout this world have never known.As Americans, we have "pulled together" when facingpast difficulties, World Wars, Depressions, Recessionsand 9-11. We are a people who, when down, bandtogether and work together to "make things better". Weare still the same people.TOGETHER is a tremendous word. It opens doors tosolutions that will see this great country through thesedifficult times. I humbly request that each of youremember TOGETHER we can.Remember, a new year is a great time for a newbeginning!

BELLEAIR BLUFFS FIRE RESCUE, A year in review by Patrick M. Competelli, Fire Chiefl In 2007 station 43 ran approximately 550 calls. In2008 we ran 2,121. The change is due to E43 addingparamedic staff to the engine. Approximately 85% of thecalls the engine runs are medical calls, the other 15%are fires, etc.l Fire Chief Competelli started on May 1, 2008.l Because Largo previously managed Belleair Bluffs Fire,the station did not duplicate plans or buy equipmentLargo had. Now Belleair Bluffs is almost completely onits own, except for a borrowed paramedic, many books,equipment and station requirements needed upgrading;approximately 98% of these requirements have beentaken care of over the last 9 months.l Chief Arthur J. Bufo was hired as the Division Chief of

Training and the Fire Marshal. He takes care of all fireprevention education, fire inspections and training.l The fire department added a used utility truck. Thisvehicle is called utility #43 and is used for training,transporting large supplies, and by the Fire Marshal toconduct inspections and to respond to fire scenes.l Firefighter safety, health and welfare is one of the mainfocuses for 2009. An increase in thyroid cancer infirefighters has caused departments to take a better lookat the atmosphere firefighters are subjected too.l We hope to build a new fire station, but finding themoney to do that is very difficult. We hope to get grants,use reserve funds, and receive funding from the City ofBelleair and from Pinellas County Government.l We will be holding the Fire House open house inOctober and we hope to be offering CPR classes on aregular basis to the general public.


CITY GOVERNMENT NEWSBELLEAIR BLUFFSEELLEECCTTIIOONN NNEEWWSS The next city election is March10th.Seven year Commissioner, David Shimkus will becampaigning for Mayor against incumbent ChrisArbutine. Arbutine has served for nine years on thecommission and eight years as mayor. Running for atwo year term as Commissioner are incumbent RobertRusso, John “Jack” Nazario, and Suzy Sofer. Runningfor a one year Commissioner term are Gary Nemes,Joseph Barley and Wanda Rusinowski.NNEEWW FFIIRREE MMAARRSSHHAALLLL Arthur J. Bufo is the new DivisionChief/Fire Marshal. He is a twenty plus year veteran ofthe U.S. Air Force Reserves and the Fire Service. ChiefBufo holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in BusinessAdministration and 2 AS degrees in Fire ProtectionTechnology. Bufo started with the Belleair Bluffs FireRescue department in October of 2008.

TOWN OF BELLEAIRWWAATTEERR RRAATTEESS UUPP A 5 percent increase in your waterrates was recently approved. "The increase is intended tocover increased fuel costs for water delivery," says TownManager Micah Maxwell. Homeowners using less than9,000 gallons will now pay $18.22 bimonthly with anadditional surcharge of $2.77 per gallon (up to 36,000gallons). Multifamily rates (condos) have a similarincrease.EELLEECCTTIIOONN NNEEWWSS The next election will be March10th.There are two, three year terms available. Three peopleare people are running: Commissioner Gary Fowlerseeking his fifth term, Stephanie Oddo seeking hersecond term, and newcomer Brad Ackerman.

BELLEAIR BEACHEELLEECCTTIIOONN NNEEWWSS no city election is needed. No one ischallenging any of the incumbents.OOVVEERRWWEEIIGGHHTT The City established a $35 permit fee foroverweight and oversized vehicles. The permit is forvehicles on construction sites and those providingdeliveries. Contact the city for more details. AANNOOTTHHEERR NNEEWW BBRRIIDDGGEE The City approved the designand cost of a new bridge on Harrison Avenue, the smallbridge servicing about 30 homeowners in BelleairBeach. The new bridge will be slightly wider than the oldone. Engineering costs are $19,000, and the newbridge’s total cost will be $290,000. It should takethree to four months to complete.BELLEAIR SHORESNNOO EELLEECCTTIIOONNSS Mayor John Robertson andCommissioner John Hayes Jr. will automatically be re-elected to two year terms. Robertson was first elected in1998. Hayes has served since 2001. These new termsbegin in March. The positions are unpaid. BBEEAACCHH RREENNOOUURRIISSHHMMEENNTT According to Nicole Elko,Coastal Coordinator of Pinellas County EnvironmentalManagement, if the city uses public funds to renourishBelleair Beach, the beach must be available to thepublic. The city has little parking to offer the public. Thecity tried to use city marina parking, but the county feltthat was too far from the Morgan Street access. Therenourishment is scheduled to begin in 2010. The lastbeach renourishment took place in 2006.


BBuussiinneessss BBrriieeffss.... ..BELLEAIR FLOORINGMOVED Joey andNikki moved theirbusiness from The Plazato West Bay next toMarlin Darlin's. Theyhave the largest displayof flooring surfaces inthe Belleair area. If youare planning abathroom remodel orsomething new, make sure you check them out first. _________________________________________________NEW DENTAL OFFICE Dr. Mohammed Baker openedCOS MED DEN, a dental office at 2715 West BayDrive, across from the new Publix. They specialize incosmetic and special dental services._________________________________________________NEW PET SPA There is a new place to pamper yourdogs and cats. Unleashed Pet Spa and Boutique, 1661West Bay, next to the Community Vet Hospital, is ownedby Lisa Menze. Drop your pet off in the morning andpick up a clean happy on in the afternoon. 581-2275._________________________________________________

BICYCLE OUTFITTERSlocated at 11198 70thAve., in Seminole on thePinellas Trail, is one ofthe largest RecumbentDealers in the Southeast.Among other brands,they carry Bacchetta,Rans, Easy Racer, Catrikeand Wiz Wheelz. They

also carry standard bikes include Trek, Gary Fisher, andElectra. Ownered by Diana & Gerry, Belleair Beachresidents, their full service shop prides itself in beingable to fill the needs of bicyclists of all ages and levels.They will service all brands. They have a complete lineof cycling apparel, accessories and parts. Their staff isknowledgeable and friendly. _________________________________________________REAL ESTATE CHANGES Nations Realty in BelleairBluffs is now Gulf to Bay Realty. They are at 232 IndianRocks Road North, near City Hall._________________________________________________WAL-MART ON WALSINGHAM They have startedwork on a future Wal-Mart Neighborhood Store onWalsingham, east of Indian Rocks Road, where Kash NKarry was. Neighborhood Stores are smaller thannormal Wal-Marts, and carry mostly groceries. Noopening date has been announced._____________________LEJAN’S ANTIQUESMOVED Len and JanSpencer’s Lejan'sAntiques moved theirbusiness from West Bayto 716 Indian RocksRoad N., across fromOld Harbor Bank._____________________OUT OF BUSINESS:Turning Leaf Construction on Indian Rocks Road andPeterbrooke Chocolatier, in Largo, next to Publix haveboth closed.


MAGGIE MAES ON THEBLUFFS is a new restaurantnow open in Belleair Bluff's.Their other location is in SandKey. Owned by Allen Edger, aBluff's resident, Maggie's isopen for lunch and dinner(6:30am-2:30pm), seven daysa week. They feature southernstyle cooking including spam, hillbilly tatters and friedbaloney sandwiches. Restaurants run in the family.Edger’s father, Larry, owns Backwaters on Sand Key.Maggie Maes, 2961 West Bay, is next to Bonefish Grill._________________________________________________CLOTHING FOR CASA Patchington's, located at 280Indian Rocks Rd. N., is holding a trade-in sale February24-March 2nd. Bring in an item of clothing, to be donatedto CASA, and you will get a credit towards your nextpurchase. Store credit can vary, but for example, a jacketfor a jacket may yield $25. Plus, you are helping thewomen in need at CASA. Call Betty Schall at 586-6196for the details. _____________________________________

THE PERFECT GIFT FOR YOU ORSOMEONE YOU KNOW!JourneyMarkersTM - A Personalized HistoryOf Your Life's Journey. Mark those specialplaces in your life with JourneyMarkers, aunique personalized mile marker thatvisually tells the story of your life's journey.Hand-painted in bold colors with theweathered look of the islands,JourneyMarkers make any backyard orporch more inviting! They include yourpersonalized mile markers strung on arope with small buoys as spacers, toppedwith a directional sign and anchored with

a fisherman's float. Customers list special places in theirlife: where you used to live, universities, ballparks orteams, a pub or vacation spot! Mileage is calculated fromyour home to your locations. Strung together, they form areminder of your life's journey. Contact St. Pete resident,Jay Keeler (800) 266-8046. www.journeymarkers.com.___________________________________________________MIDORI SALON AND SPA GOES GREEN! They nowhave the first ever eco friendly nail system, offering anoption for acrylic nails. This nail system is a "breath offresh air", literally. Midori offers four odor free productoptions for natural nails and artificial enhancements. Forthose wanting help growing natural nails, there is an ecocalcium gel that protects your nails and promotes healthygrowth! Switch to an odor-free, alternative today! _________________________________________________ABOVE AND BEYOND PARTNERS WITH STARTRAVEL Debra Schwab, owner of Above and BeyondTravel, at 2620 West Bay, has partnered with Star Travelto provide more services for both companies' customers. __________________________________TOM PRITCHARD, ROASTED! In aspecial event, held at the downtown StPete Coliseum, co-owner & head chefof Marlin Darlin's, Tom Pritchard, was"roasted" in recognition of his manycontributions to great dining in theTampa Bar area. Proceeds benefited thePinellas County Abilities Foundation.

aanndd MMoorree .. ....

FROM THE DESK OFSHERIFF JIM COATSMost people feel safe inside theirown home, and once inside, theirpersonal belongings are oftenleft unsecured or easilyaccessible. This is especially truewhen it comes to prescriptionmedications. A recent trendsuggests that medication has

become a popular target for thieves. I would like totake this opportunity to offer some suggestions on howto properly secure your prescription medications, and toprevent the expense and inconvenience associated withthis type of theft.

Over the past few years, we have seen an increase inthe theft of prescription medication from private homes.In some cases, the theft is part of a burglary in which theperpetrator targeted jewelry, cash, and small electronics.After gathering valuables to steal, the burglar simplyopened a medicine cabinet before leaving and then tookwhatever prescription medication was in plain view. Inother cases, a theft was committed by trades people,invited guests, or even relatives, all who had access tomedication that was in a medicine chest or left out inplain view. Some thefts were not discovered for anextended period of time, because individual pills hadbeen stolen or because the medication was no longerbeing taken by the victim.

Prescription drug thefts pose a significant threat to publichealth and safety because of the propensity for abuse.Stolen medication is sometimes sold or traded on thestreet, and can lead to an overdose or othercatastrophic medical problems when ingested withoutproper medical screening. As most of us know, drugabuse also leads to an increase in other crimes that cansometimes result in violence. Furthermore, the theft ofprescription medication can result in the lapse of amedically necessary dose used to treat a medicalcondition. Due to strict regulation of some medication,replacing medically necessary drugs, which have beenstolen, may be difficult to obtain and expensive.

To prevent theft, it is suggested that all medication bestored in a secure location and within the properlymarked container in which it was dispensed. It is alsorecommended that you keep track of medication so thatmissing pills or liquid is immediately detected.Medication that is no longer needed or which hasexpired should be safely disposed of.

By following these simple tips you can help us to achieveour goal of "Leading The Way For A Safer Pinellas." Foradditional suggestions regarding home security pleasecontact the Sheriff's Office Crime Prevention Unit at(727) 582-5611.

REAL ESTATE IN THE AREAInformation provided by Martha Thorn,

Coldwell Banker, Belleair Bluffs. 727/ 432-9019and represents sales activity in the fourth quarter of 2008. Shown are SOLD prices.

Belleair Non Waterfront Average 556,000Highest Sale 1,800,000Belleair Waterfront Average 3,149,000Highest Sale 10,500,000Belleair Shore Waterfront Average 2,592,000Highest Sale 2,985,000Belleair Beach Non-Waterfront Average 329,000Highest Sale 500,000Belleair Beach Waterfront Average 833,000Highest Sale 1,265,000Harbor Bluffs Non-Waterfront Average 363,000Highest Sale 670,000Harbor Bluffs Waterfront Average 1,311,000Highest Sale 2,600,000Harbor Hills Non Waterfront Average 227,000Highest Sale 320,000Harbor Hills Waterfront Average 457,000Highest Sale 535,000Belleair Bluffs Non Waterfront Average 236,000Highest Sale 425,000Belleair Bluffs Waterfront Average NO SALES Highest Sale NO SALES

BEACH COMMUNITY FOOD PANTRYA Tough Year In Review

The Beach Community Food Pantry (BCFP) is a smallgroup of volunteers providing food weekly to families inneed. Located in Indian Rocks Beach, they are part ofCalvary Episcopal Church. Due to the downturn in theour economy, more people are in need of their services."The numbers are staggering," says manager HarveyBrillat." In October, 263 patrons came to us for food tofeed 748 family members. Each month we find ourselvesserving more than the month before." This year theBCFP had a total of 2,335 visits from area patrons. Thisincluded 236 new members. That translates to 6,444family members fed by those visits.The Food Pantry started four and a half years ago. Fortyvolunteers staff a small one-room warehouse at CalvaryEpiscopal Church. The annual budget of $16,000 isbased on donations, but much of the food is donated. THE BCFP is a member of America's Second Harvest ofTampa Bay, a major food clearing house, located in EastTampa. There they are able to buy salvaged food at 18¢per pound. This really extends their spending power. "We are grateful to all our supporters and will continueto depend on your generosity," says Brillat. "Every singleperson can help. Whether it is a small donation or 'OneCan Per Week'. Please do what you can to help."The Beaches Food Pantry is open only two hours per dayon Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays. Everyone,including Harvey is a volunteer. Any one interested inhelping or donating to the Beaches Food Pantry, callHarvey Brillat directly at 595-4744.


A NEW BUDGET YEAR BEGINSBy Karen Williams Seel, District 5Pinellas County Commissioner Two major bridge projects will becompleted in our area within the next twoyears - the Belleair Beach CausewayBridge and the John's Pass Bridge.The progress at Belleair Beach Causeway Bridge hasbeen sure and steady. A project by Pinellas County, thisreplacement is more than 70 percent complete, and isslated for completion in the fall of 2009. All 32 piersare done. The incremental launch on the west approachis 100 percent completed. Traffic was transferred to thenew relief bridge and the old relief was demolished.John's Pass Bridge, which connects Madeira Beach toTreasure Island, provides an important evacuation routeand is essential to the beach communities. Owned andoperated by the Florida Department of Transportation,the John's Pass Bridge work started on Jan. 26, 2006and is expected to be completed in the middle of 2010.The county also did some work recently on the ParkBoulevard Bridge, which included nighttime closures.We thank all of the residents who regularly use thisbridge for their patience. The Pinellas County contractorpainted and sealed the steel at the center of the bridge.It was expected to be completed by the end of January.While these bridge projects are inconvenient, they areabsolutely necessary. Our bridges provide the only linkto our beach communities - except by boat of course -and are the lifeline to residents and visitors. We bothlove and need our beaches and with safety as our toppriority, the maintenance of our bridges is paramount.Another area that needs constant maintenance is ourbeaches. Pinellas County plans 2 beach renourishmentprojects. In 2009, the beaches from Treasure Island toSt. Pete Beach will be renourished at a $6 million cost. Then, 9 miles from Sand Key through Belleair Beach,Indian Rocks Beach, Indian Shores, Redington Shoresand North Redington Beach is tentatively scheduled for2010. The funding for that project is not yet in place. The funding for the beach renourishment projectscomes from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (60%),the Florida Department of Environmental Protection(20%) and Pinellas County (20%). Pinellas County paysits share from the tourist development tax, which is .5%of the 4% tax set aside each year for beach projects. Itusually generates about $2 million per year.There is information on bridges, beaches, budget andother county issues on www.pinellascounty.org. Asalways, please feel free to contact me [email protected].

POLICE REPORTby Chief Tom Edwards, Town of Belleair.CONTRACTOR WARNINGS: We have had someincidents where contractors, and other workers in privatehomes, have stolen goods from homes where they areworking. If you have work being done in your home,please 1) hide your valuables, and 2) watch yourworkers while they are on your property.We also remind our citizens to close garage doors.People can easily walk in a steal a bicycle, car, tools oraccess your home. Lock your car doors. Thieves willenter an unlocked car and steal valuables in your glovecompartments. Also, never leave keys in your vehicle.


GROUP WEDDING - VALENTINES DAYA group wedding ceremony will be performed in thebeautiful Wedding Garden at Largo’s Florida BotanicalGardens, by Clerk of the Circuit Court, Ken Burke, onValentine’s Day, Saturday, February 14, 2009. This is the third year the Clerk’s Office is hosting thisevent. In the spirit of romance, Burke is holding theceremony for the first time in the county’s own WeddingGarden. Once again, the Charmonizers barbershopquartet will be volunteering their musical talents to addfurther delight to this special event. “We are excited to be working with the BotanicalGardens to hold our group marriage ceremony at oneof these most idealistic wedding settings our countyhas, said Burke. “The sculptures, mosaic artwork,topiary and rose gardens come together to create abeautiful setting nestled in the heart of Pinellas County.” The Clerk has waived the normal $30 fee to performthe marriage. Standard marriage license fees stillapply. Couples must sign up at any Pinellas CountyClerk’s office by Friday, February 6, 2009. The number of couples may be limited due to space.Marriage licenses must be applied for betweenDecember 22, 2008 and February 11, 2009 in orderto participate on the February 14, 2009 wedding date.The ceremony will take place at 2 p.m. in the WeddingGarden at Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 UlmertonRoad, Largo, FL 33774. Couples will receive a special,commemorative Marriage Certificate, which will bemailed within one week of the ceremony with theofficial certificate of marriage. All couples should arriveat the Botanical Gardens by 1 p.m. on the day of theevent with their marriage license and identification. For more information, contact Recording Services at727-464-4876 or visit www.pinellasclerk.org. For moreinformation about the Wedding Garden and/or theFlorida Botanical Gardens visit www.flbg.org.

Last year 27couples filled thecourthouse lobbybefore theyprocessed to thecourtyard for thegroup marriageceremony onFebruary 14,2008

5K RUN & 1 MILE FUN WALKWHEN: Saturday, April 4, 2009 at 8:00 AMWHERE: Indian Rocks Beach County Park, 1700 Gulf Blvd, Indian RocksBeach; The park is 1 mile north of Walsingham Road; 1 mile south of

Belleair Causeway; The Race is on the beach! Start & Finish at the County Park.COSTS: Early Registration, now through March 29th - $15.00 - Includes a T-Shirt; March30th through Race Day $20.00 - Includes a T-Shirt as long as supplies lastREGISTRATION: Download a registration form or register online at IRBHome.com or call727/517-0525 for other locations. Mail completed applications before Wed. April 1, 2009 to address on the form.


Email: [email protected] HHHHAA ##229999999922228822

Quality Home Care for the Way You Live Assisting with Life Enrichment Activities

E A S Y L I V I N G I N C

HOME CARE FOR THE WAY YOU LIVE

TM

Call 727-448-0900

1465 S. Ft. Harrison Ave. Suite 200 Clearwater

l NEW Concierges ServiceAvailable

l Personal Assistant(Companion/Housekeeping)

l Personal Care Assistant(Certified Nursing AssistantHome Health Aide)

l Transportation (Errands/Appointments)

DIMMITT COMMUNITY CENTERPROGRAM SCHEDULE 2009

The Town of Belleair Recreation Department isregistering for Spring Break Camps, Archery,Basketball League, Flag Football League, and theBelleair Classic. Check out the new programs suchas Digital Photography, Lunchtime Pilates, andGolf Lessons. For more information on the DimmittCommunity Center programs please call 727-588-3769 extension 210 or visit townofbelleair.com.YOUTH PROGRAMSArchery Tuesday 4:00 pmChoi Kwang Do Wednesday 5:30 pm

Saturday 9:30 amFunky Friday Friday 6:00 pm to 9:00 pmHip Hop Dance Tuesday 4:30 pmTennis Lessons Tues/Thurs 3:00 pm

YOUTH CAMPS AND LEAGUESSandlot Camp March 16 - 20 9am - 4 pmGirls Only Camp March 16 - 20 9am - 4 pmSpring Break Camp Mar 30 - Apr 3 9 am -12 pmGCU Soccer Camp Mar 30 - Apr 3 1 pm - 4 pm Basketball League March 14 - May 16Flag Football League April 1 - May 27Summer Camp Registration begins 3/14/09 for Belleairresidents and 3/28/09 for non-residents. Sign up earlyfor a spot! Space is limited to 75 campers per week.

ADULT PROGRAMSBasketball Wednesday 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Saturday 9:00 am to 11:00 amDigital Photography Monday 6:00 pmDuplicate Bridge Thurs/Sat 12:30 pmFit Forever Mon/Wed/Fri 9:00 amGolf Lessons Tues/Thur 9:30 am Jazzercise Mon-Thu 5:45 pm

Saturday 8:30 amLunchtime Pilates Wednesday 12:00 pmOil Painting Beg. Tuesday 1:00 pmOil Painting Inter. Thursday 1:00 pmVolleyball Tues/Fri 12:30 pm Yoga Thursday 7:30 pm

SPECIAL EVENTSBelleair Classic 10k/5k March 7, 2009 7:30 amSpring Fest April 11, 2009 10:00 am

The ladies of theGreater BelleairYoung Women'sSociety held theirJanuary GeneralMeeting at thehome ofmember TracyBland-Griffith onIsland Estates.

A delicious luncheon was catered by the WildflowerCafe in Clearwater. From left to right are DeborahParks, Barbara Hoskinson and past President DeborahVaters. For more information, call 586-2268

PREVIEW THIS MENU SAMPLING.

Consuming raw meats, seafood or shellfish may increase your risk of food-borne illness.

SSMMAALLLL && SSHHAARREE PPLLAATTEESSFilet Mignon Carpaccio shaved parmigiano,truffle oil, capers, arugula and grape tomatoes 10.5

Kettle Chips with Maytag Crema 3.9

Tuna Tartarwasabi drizzle & ginger-garlic aioli 7.9Conch Fritters Bahamian Classic 7.5

Soft Shell Crab one - 5.9, two - 10.5

Jerk Chicken Wings wood grilled 7.5Crab Cake Corn Dogs dusted in old baywith a ginger-garlic dipping sauce anda squeeze of fresh key lime 7.5

Fire Cracker Shrimp 6.9Snapper Tacos 7.9Shrimptini chilled shrimp served ina martini glass with cocktail sauce 3.9

The Best Garlic Flatbread 5.9

Fresh Oysters on the half shell – mkt. –

SSOOUUPPSSShrimp Gumbo & Rice a bowl full 5.9Conch Chowder bowl 4.9 – cup 2.7

GGRREEEENNSSHomestead Salad farm greens, mandarinoranges, red onion, tomatoes, roasted pumpkinseeds and a key lime herb vinaigrette

Citrus Caesar Salad crisp romaineand caesar dressing, spiked with citrus,topped with island spiced croutons

top either salad above with:

Jerk Chicken 7.5 Crispy Salmon 9.9Crab Cake 10.5 Grilled Shrimp 8.5

Sesame Crusted Tuna Sashimi Salad withasian vinaigrette 13.9

Conch Salad a Bahamian favorite 7.5

SSAANNDDWWIICCHHEESSServed on a Cuban bread with lettuce,tomato, onion and jicama slawSquare Grouper grilled, blackened or fried 10.5

Havana Cuban Pork with mojo creole 5.9

FFLLAATT BBRREEAADDSSMargherita fresh mozzarella, tomato,basil, roasted garlic and olive oil 7.9

Pear and Bacon barlett pears, neuske bacon,red onions, four cheeses, and roasted garlic 9.5

LLAANNDDGGrriilllleedd KK--bboobbss:: CChhiicckkeenn with island BBQ sauce 12.9 –FFiilleett MMiiggnnoonn with Chimichuri 14.9 – CChhiicckkeenn && FFiilleett CCoommbboo 13.9skewered with fresh mushrooms, peppers, onions, & squash, over island ricelighter portions– Chicken 7.9 – Filet Mignon 9.9

FFiilleett MMiiggnnoonn center cut, wood fire grilled, with mashed potatoes,tandoori onions and blistered tomatoes 19.9

CCiittrruuss RRuumm GGrriilllleedd CChhiicckkeenn splashed with Pyrat rum and a squeeze of fresh citrus,with sweet potato mash & collard greens 12.9 –lighter portion 9.9

HHaavvaannaa CCuubbaann PPoorrkk with mojo Creole, island rice & black beans 12.9 –lighter portion 9.9

HHeemmiinnggwwaayy’’ss LLaammbb CChhooppss wood fire grilled, island mint jelly, red skin mash and sautéedveggies 16.9 –lighter portion 9.9

SSEEAACCaappttaaiinnss PPllaatttteerr Latin crusted grouper, grilled sea scallops and shrimp, aconch fritter, fried shrimp, a crab cake corn dog, and island rice and black beans 19.9

Crispy Fried Butterfly Shrimp or Tempura Shrimp with cocktail sauce,lobster mac & cheese and jicama slaw 12.9 –lighter portion 9.9

Soft Shell Crabs with island fries and jicama slaw 19.9 –lighter portion 14.9

Seared Yellow Fin Tuna sesame teriyaki yuzu lacquer, sesame crusted withgarlic ginger aioli and wasabi drizzle, island rice and sautéed veggies 16.5

Grilled Sea Scallops & Shrimp Simply grilled with garlic herb butter and asqueeze of key lime, on a bed of rice and collard greens 15.9 –shrimp only 12.9

Alaskan King Crab Legs split, steamed and wood grilled, lobster mac & cheese, jicima slaw 24.9

Fried Lobster Tail blue moon beer battered withorange-ginger dipping sauce, island rice and sautéedveggies 24.9 –half tail 13.9

TTOODDAAYY’’SS FFRREESSHH CCAATTCCHHEach evening our chefs prepare just caught premium fresh fish specials.

— Select any preparation with your choice of fresh fish —

Wood Fire Grilledwith your choiceof two sides

Island Painted-with island BBQ sauce.

Simply Grilled- with garlicherb butter with a squeeze

of fresh key lime.

Pan Sautéedwith island rice

Key West- ginger, garlic,onion, peppers, tomatoesin a thai curry sauce.

New Orleans- shrimpgumbo saute, add 1.9

Wood Fired Ovenwith your choiceof two sides

Latin Crusted- toastedplantains, topped with a

garlic-herb butter.

Oscar Style- wood grilled,w/asparagus, lump crabmeat, and topped w/

hollandaise sauce. add 2.9

BBllaacckk GGrroouuppeerr 15.5

CChhiilleeaann SSeeaa BBaassss 17.5

MMaannggrroovvee SSnnaappppeerr 14.5

CCoossttaa RRiiccaann MMaahhii MMaahhii 13.5

SSaallmmoonn 14.5

YYeellllooww FFiinn TTuunnaa 16.5

add toany entreé:

1/2 dozen grilledshrimp 4.9

All entreés come with your choice of Homestead salad,a citrus Caesar salad, or lobster bisque, and hot pressed cuban bread.

Discover the all newKey West inspired menu.This stylish yet casual seafood restaurant takesyou to Duval Street, in the heart of Key West.Sample an impressive menu of authentic Key’sfavorites, and enjoy a fresh list of cocktails andan extensive wine list.

772277..558844..117700002819 West Bay Drive, Belleair Bluffs

100 to Love: The Tampa Bay Area’s Best Restaurantsby: Laura Reiley, Times Food Critic

best seafood:

New Surf & Turf for 2009! just $14.9Grilled Fillet Mignon K-bob with aFlorida Key’s Lobster Tail Tempura Style choice of two sides and salad!

Two-for-Ones!Key West Rum Punch Havana MojitosWell Cocktails Carribean SangriasIsland Margaritas $5.9ALLDAY - ALLNIGHT!

wwwwww..BBaayyssttaarrRReessttaauurraannttGGrroouupp..ccoomm

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CITRUS GROVES ONCE JUICED LOCAL ECONOMY...MAYOR - Patricia Gerard COMMISSIONERS — Mary Gray Black...

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