#st pete museum of history

[suzannetownsend]

Meddling: The woman bringing women’s local history into focus in St. Pete

Jessy Breckenridge describes the research she did for the St. Petersburg Museum of History exhibit Meddling: The Women Who Built St. Pete. 

The St. Petersburg Museum of History is strikingly modest for its downtown location. Plain white and undergoing some construction, the museum is nested at the base of the St. Pete Pier across from the Museum of Fine Arts and houses some gems of this peninsula’s great history. One of its latest exhibitions is Meddling: The Women Who Built St. Pete, curated by Jessy Breckenridge. “It started off as a bet,” she said. She grinned as she explained that she’s actually the archives and collections manager at the museum, not the curator. “It was women’s history month and I bet our executive director that I could find and write a profile on a different historical woman in St. Pete every day for the month of March, which has 31 days. And I did.” Breckenridge said.

Soon the project became an idea for an exhibit, and then an actual exhibit. Mainly using digital archives of newspapers, Breckenridge started her research with the founder of the museum itself, Mary Wheeler Eaton. Each research subject led to several more and soon enough Breckenridge had 30 profiles ready for the gallery walls and a slideshow of many more. “‘Meddling’ comes from one of our St. Petersburg history books which was quoted as saying that the men of the town did not quite like the meddling women of St. Pete,” she said.

Breckenridge explained some of the challenges she came across during her research. First of all, until the mid-1980s, if a woman was married she was almost always only referred to by her husband’s name. This made finding information about the woman herself difficult, and having to sift through everything that was only about her husband tedious. 

Another challenge came because Black history is not as well documented as white history, which makes it even more challenging and important to discern an accurate historical narrative. Breckenridge said the only woman without a photo in the exhibit is Anna Donaldson, who alongside her husband was the first permanent Black settler in Pinellas County. 

Despite the challenges, the exhibit has been received very well. Breckenridge’s work has even inspired the community here in St. Petersburg to get involved in its own local history. She said people have been calling in to the museum to tell about an additional woman from the city’s history to add to the exhibit’s slideshow.

“It’s really exciting to be able to tell these stories,” she said.

The museum is exploring ways to make “Meddling” a permanent exhibit.

Executive director Rui Farias said, “Probably some time after the first year we’ll be looking at moving it into a larger gallery space,” said Rui Farias, executive director of the museum. 

[longlistshort]

Mary Ann Carroll (1940-2019), “Untitled (Backcountry Twilight)”, n.d., Oil on Masonite board

Harold Newton (1934-1991), “Untitled (Painting of the Indian River)”, c. 1958, Oil on Upson board; Alfred Hair (1941-1970), “Untitled (Marshland with palm), c. 1958, Oil on Upson board

James Gibson (1938-2017) “Untitled (Moonlit palms)”, n.d., Oil on Upson board

In early 2021, Tampa Museum of Art presented the work of Florida’s famous Highwaymen painters in the exhibition Living Color: The Art of the Highwaymen.

From the museum-

The Highwaymen are a group of African American artists celebrated for their distinctive paintings of Florida’s natural environment. Working in and around the Fort Pierce area beginning in the 1950s, these self-taught artists depicted the state’s scenic coastline and wild backcountry, often in dazzling combinations of color and tone. Brilliant tropical sunsets, windblown palms, towering sunlit clouds, and blooming poinciana trees are among the many subjects that have become iconic images of Florida in part because of the paintings that the Highwaymen created. In the state’s postwar boom years their paintings found an enthusiastic audience among a growing population of new residents and visitors. Unrecognized by the region’s art establishment of galleries and museums, the Highwaymen by necessity catered directly to their patrons, selling their paintings door-to-door along such thoroughfares as Route 1. It was from this practice that the name “Highwaymen” was later coined.

The popularity of Highwaymen paintings waned in the 1980s as the vision of Florida was reimagined by an ever-increasing population and once-pristine landscapes were lost to development. Then in the mid-1990s a new generation of collectors, with fresh eyes, rediscovered the paintings and began to assemble significant collections. These collectors saw the art of the Highwaymen as an important artistic legacy and together with several writers, scholars, and enthusiasts began the process of establishing the historical context and reevaluation of their work. Books and articles followed, bringing a new level of recognition for the achievements of these artists and, with that, growing popular acclaim. The contribution of the Highwaymen to the cultural life of Florida was formally recognized in 2004 when the group of 26 artists was inducted into the Florida Artists Hall of Fame.

Living Color: The Art of the Highwaymen brings together 60 paintings by a core group of the Highwaymen including Al Black, Mary Ann Carroll, Willie Daniels, Johnny Daniels, James Gibson, Alfred Hair, Roy McLendon, Harold Newton, Sam Newton, Willie Reagan, and Livingston Roberts.

Focusing on work produced from the 1950s to the 1980s, the exhibition is an in-depth examination of the group’s initial period of success when their groundbreaking style of fast painting was being developed. Fast painting is a hallmark and essential innovation of the Highwaymen. Facing limitations imposed by the racial prejudice of their time, they had little or no access to formal training or to conventional art markets. To overcome these obstacles, they produced large numbers of works which could be sold at very affordable prices. Some estimates of the group’s overall production during their heyday exceed 200,000 paintings, with certain artists creating dozens of paintings per day. Their creative response to the racism they confronted resulted in an original artistic practice.

Opening at The Woodson African American Museum of Florida in St. Pete this Saturday, 9/9/23, is Florida Highwaymen: The Next Generation – The Legacy Continues, an exhibition of work by Ray McLendon, son of Highwayman Roy McLendon, who creates Florida landscapes in the same iconic style his father used.

[the-sayuri-rin]

On the street in front of The Woodson Museum in St. Petersburg, the words “Black History Matters” are painted as a mural. That message and the history on the block alone is what made The Woodson the perfect place to launch a Freedom School.

Jacqueline Hubbard with the Association of African American Life and History’s St. Pete chapter said she gave the concept a lot of thought.

“I was really active in the student nonviolent coordinating committee when I was in college," Hubbard said. "And I remember I was part of the freedom summer. I remember the Freedom Schools. And I wrote an article for the Weekly Challenger saying, 'Don’t you think it’s time we revisit the Freedom Schools? Don’t our kids need to be taught their own history?' Who can better teach it then those of us who are of the same group.” 

Hubbard also reacted to changes that were made to the new African American History teaching standards. 

"The curriculum is an abomination," she said. It makes me very angry when I read what they want to teach children."

[1973listener-blog]

Historically St. Pete w/ Rui Farias, St. Petersburg Museum of History: The Vinory https://audioboom.com/posts/8596528-historically-st-pete-w-rui-farias-st-petersburg-museum-of-history-the-vinory

[inboundremblog]

Explore Pinellas County Real Estate: Homes, Communities, and Investment Opportunities

Credit: Image by Debby Hudson | Unsplash

Aspects to Love About Pinellas County Real Estate

From the beautiful shores of Florida's Gulf Coast to its rich economic investment opportunities, Pinellas is a haven for potential homebuyers. Pinellas County real estate boasts lovely beaches, developing state communities, and many facilities, making it a perfect place for anyone searching for an excellent place to invest or lay their anchor.

In this article, we will review the different factors as to the kinds of Pinellas County Real Estate, the characteristics of the communities, the types of properties available, and the reasons why they are suitable for the real estate business.

Location and Geography

Pinellas County Real Estate is in the west-central region of Florida, lying west of Tampa Bay and south of the Gulf of Mexico.

The County occupies an area of 280 square miles and has 24 independent incorporated cities, the biggest of which are St. Petersburg and Clearwater. Its location allows it to access some of Florida's most beautiful coastlines, attracting residents and investors.

Climate and Lifestyle

It has a subtropical climate, with hot and often humid summers and cool, comfortable winters. This climate and the fact that the County is chock full of outdoor activities would be fascinating for tourists.

Some activities one can carry out include boating, fishing, playing golf, and walking on the sandy beaches at any season.

Primary Demographics in Pinellas County

Petersburg

St. Petersburg, or St. Pete, is the largest city in Pinellas County and is considered one of the vital cultural centers of Florida. People can appreciate its rich and diverse art life, numerous museums, and enthusiastic downtown with restaurants, shops, and other interesting establishments. It also has fantastic waterside parks and the famous St. Pete beach.

Clearwater

Clearwater is famous for its clean, white sandy beaches and blue waters. It comprises a residential area, business district, tourism, and the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, among the popular tourist attractions.

Is Clearwater Beach on your list of the preferred regions for living by the shore? It should be because this beach is frequently listed among the country's top shoreline locations.

Dunedin

Dunedin is the next small city famous for its connection to Scottish roots and adorable main street. This comprises several shops, eateries, and breweries, including designer shops.

The town also has Honeymoon Island State Park, which gives the inhabitants and tourists a view of the natural, unblemished environment.

Tarpon Springs

Therefore, Tarpon Springs is famous for its historic sponge docks and many Greek residents. Culture, history, and the availability of waterfront living make this city stand out.

Due to the numerous waterfront lots and houses and antique structures and buildings, living in Tarpon Springs is unique in many ways.

Types of Properties Available

Single-Family Homes

Single-family homes in Pinellas County are available to suit almost every preference, whether bungalows, mid-century downloads, or newly built homes. They exist in different price segments, so it is easy for a buyer to find a home that will fit their wallet.

Condominiums and Townhomes

Apartments and villas are also shared among home buyers due to the limited number of responsibilities.

These are mostly preferred by young people employed and those who use their homes on a seasonal basis.

Luxury Properties

To summarize, Pinellas County has a vast choice of comfortable, let alone luxurious, houses. Some prime residences include waterfront luxury homes for those who prefer to live in their own built homes, luxury condos, and some of the best restricted gated communities with a view of the Gulf of Mexico or Tampa Bay.

The premium segment is well developed here; people often look for acquired amenities and locations in a property.

Investment Properties

Real estate investment is also well-suited in Pinellas County. As the population increases, especially tourists, the need to occupy rental units increases, hence the vital tourism industry.

Indeed, there are prospects for investing in holiday lets, leaseholds, permanent tenancies, and business properties.

Factors Influencing the Real Estate Market of Pinellas County

Economic Growth

Pinellas County boasts economic growth that has been steadily rising consistently for some time now in various financial areas, namely health, learning institutions, tourism, and technology.

As primary employers, hospitals, universities, and well-established information technology firms also help stabilize the employment market and lure new people to the region.

Quality of Life

This aspect played a role in the County's real estate quality. Necessities such as quality education from highly ranked schooling institutions, quality and accessible health care services, and other leisure services and cultural endowments are fundamental offerings in Bakersfield.

The natural environment, including the seashore, parks, and water facilities, creates an excellent domicile environment.

Infrastructure and Transportation

With better transport networks, Pinellas County is endowed with better social facilities. Another aspect that is easily accessible, especially for public transport, is the bus provided by the Pinellas Suncoast Transit Authority (P.S.T.A.).

The Tampa International Airport is nearby for air transport, efficiently serving the County. Several major highways and bridges dissect the County and link it to other subregions in the Tampa Bay area, hence providing convenient transport.

Community and Lifestyle

Therefore, every community in Pinellas County displays its distinctive qualities and ways of life.

From the artistic and cosmopolitan city of St. Petersburg, with all its luxurious and stylish preferences, to the more relaxed and devoted recreational activities in Kumar Clearwater, those who choose the above cities as their residence can select a community that corresponds to them.

For this reason, the County is desirable to various buyers due to this diversification.

Buying Real Estate in Pinellas County

Observing the situation in the real estate market of Pinellas County, one can notice that it is relatively stable, and the price range continually increases. Most of the properties in the area are appreciated, considering that the area is Santa Clarita and is deemed economically sound.

Nevertheless, it should be understood that the market can be unstable and fluctuating. Therefore, the buyer should be aware of current tendencies and cooperate with a professional in the sphere of real estate agents.

Financing Options

The financing plans available are conventional mortgages, F.H.A. loans at Pinellas County, and V.A. loans.

In real estate, it is usually a good idea to become prequalified for a home loan before beginning the purchasing procedure to produce the buying process and increase bargaining power.

Dealing with a Real Estate Agent

Professional local agent assistance is highly advisable when finding a property in Pinellas County. An experienced agent is aware of the areas of interest to the clients, helps them search for homes, and bargains and closes.

Property Inspections and Due Diligence

It is recommended that obligatory and correct property assessments and other relevant investigations be performed before purchasing a real estate property in Pinellas County.

It can be done to cover any possible concerns regarding hurricanes and floods because Queens is a coastal county.

Buyers should also study the property records, the laws governing property zoning, and any rules and regulations of any homeowners' association.

As Pinellas County boasts of good financial health, healthy communities, and well-endowed beaches, it was, is, and will always be a home to the best and the brightest in society, as well as a real estate haven!

Get an insider's look at what it's like to live in a particular neighborhood within this community by browsing our website at https://mypinellascountyrealestate.com/.

[jenringwrites]

WEEKEND ARTINGS: Arts and culture experiences to enjoy with family Thanksgiving weekend

Thanksgiving weekend is fast approaching. Maybe you already know where you’re taking your out-of-town family members, or maybe you don’t. For those still deciding, here are some of the best last-minute arts and culture experiences you can share with family in Tampa Bay this weekend.

1. Sanding Ovations encore in Treasure Island. When are your aunt and uncle from Alaska ever going to see professionally-sculpted sand if you don’t take them to Sanding Ovations encore on Treasure Island this weekend? Here’s a preview from 10 Tampa Bay.

2. “The Nature of Art” at The Museum of Fine Arts in St. Pete. There’s a lot to see at the Museum of Fine Arts in St. Pete, especially if you’ve never been there before. If you have been before, this weekend’s a great time to revisit, as the MFA opened “The Nature of Art,” their first campus-wide exhibition, on Oct. 28. I have many things to say about how you should experience “The Nature of Art,” but you’ll have to wait for my Creative Loafing review for those extra words. In the meantime, check out this video snapshot from ABC Action News.

3. “From Far East to Far West” at The James Museum in St. Pete. Given from Far East to Far West’s focus on ancestry, it’s a great show to visit with family. Maybe you’ll learn some of your family’s history in the process. Here’s what I wrote about the exhibit for Creative Loafing.

4. Florida Stories Walking Tours. Celebrate local stories with a “Florida Stories” walking tour of St. Petersburg, Ybor City, Tarpon Springs, or Safety Harbor. The Florida Humanities Council hired local writers to help with the scripts for their self-guided walking tours, accessed through the Florida Humanities Council’s Florida Stories app.

5. St. Pete Mural Tours. There are still some spots left in Florida CraftArt’s original walking mural tour this Saturday.

And if that fills up, you can always download a map directly from the SHINE website and do your own driving tour.

6. The Clearwater Marine Aquarium promises a “Sea of Holiday Joy” and art this weekend. Get there early Friday morning, 8-10 a.m., and you might catch Santa diving with the dolphins. In addition to the usual marine attractions, CMA offers holiday crafts and activities for kids during “Sea of Holiday Joy” weekends. And thanks to a collaboration with the Morean Arts Center, Level 4 of the CMA Visitor Center hosts a collection of marine-inspired artwork for the next several months.

7. Fairgrounds St. Pete has extended hours this weekend. They’ll be open until 10:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday night. That gives you plenty of time to immerse your out-of-town family members in Florida culture via locally-made art. Locals should know that the Fairgrounds holiday experience, Scents of the Season, doesn’t open until Nov. 30. If you still don’t know what Fairgrounds is, I’m going to refer you to my 2021 Creative Loafing feature where I interviewed the founders before Fairgrounds opened to the public.

8. Impressionism on both sides of the bay. People don’t always agree on art, but everyone loves impressionism. And that’s why “Frontiers of Impressionism” at the Tampa Museum of Art and “Dali and the Impressionists” at The Dali belong on this list of things to do with your family this weekend.

9. Brew culture. We brew a lot of beer in Tampa Bay, and it’s more than good enough to introduce your relatives to. From citrus-forward IPAs to tropical lagers and Florida Weisse styles, Tampa Bay has its own unique beer culture. I like to pick up a few six packs from Crooked Thumb in Safety Harbor before family visits from out of town so they can sip on local flavors during their stay. I have yet to try their beer, but Grindhaus Brew Lab hosts a Holiday Maker's Market with Author Josh Ginsberg this Sunday in Clearwater.

Find a brewery near you using Visit Tampa Bay's Tampa Bay Brewery Map.

[nathfiset]

St-Petersburg Florida

Get your FREE consultation! Call NOW

Umbilical cord blood and tissue collection in St-Petersburg FloridaUmbilical cord blood and tissue in St-Petersburg Florida  are collected immediately after birth via a non-invasive and pain-free procedure. The umbilical cord is clamped and cut as usual, but instead of discarding the placenta and umbilical cord, they are collected by a trained healthcare professional. The blood is extracted from the cord using a sterile needle and collected into a specialized bag with anticoagulants to prevent clotting. The tissue is collected by cutting a small piece of the cord and placing it into a sterile container. Both cord blood and tissue are then transported to a laboratory for processing and storage. This procedure is a safe and effective way to collect valuable stem cells that can be used for future medical treatment

Umbilical cord blood and tissue storage near St-Petersburg FLUmbilical cord blood and tissue in St-Petersburg Florida are valuable sources of stem cells, which have the potential to treat a wide range of diseases. To ensure the preservation of these stem cells, they are collected at the time of birth and stored in specialized facilities. The most common method of storage is cryopreservation, where the stem cells are slowly frozen and stored in liquid nitrogen at -196°C. This ensures that the stem cells can be retrieved and used for medical purposes for many years to come. Additionally, many cord blood banks also offer the option to store the umbilical cord tissue, which contains a different type of stem cell that can also be used for medical treatments. Overall, proper storage of umbilical cord blood and tissue is crucial for their potential use in future medical treatments.

CORD BLOOD BANKING IN ST-PETERSBURG FLORIDA What is Cord Blood banking in St-Petersburg Florida?Cord blood banking in St-Pete Florida is a procedure that has been gaining increased attention in the medical world for its potential to help treat a range of diseases and medical conditions. In simple terms, cord blood banking involves collecting and storing stem cells from a newborn's umbilical cord. These stem cells are rich in potential and can be used to help treat a range of illnesses, including certain cancers, blood disorders, and genetic diseases. As a result, many expectant parents are now considering cord blood banking as a way to secure their child's health for the future.The process of banking umbilical cord blood involves collecting the blood immediately after birth and sending it to a specialized facility for processing and storage. The cost of storage can vary depending on the service provider and the length of storage time chosen. There are many factors to consider when deciding whether to bank cord blood, including family medical history and the potential future use of the stem cells. What is cord and tissue banking in St-Petersburg Florida?Cord tissue banking in St-Petesburg Florida  involves the collection and storage of the cord tissue, which is the gel-like material that surrounds the blood vessels in the umbilical cord. This tissue is rich in stem cells, which are the building blocks of the body's immune and blood systems. The stem cells found in cord tissue are different from those found in cord blood, making it a valuable resource for future treatments. 

St. Petersburg Florida

St. Petersburg is a city located in Pinellas County, Florida, that boasts beautiful beaches, world-class museums, and a vibrant arts and culture scene. Known as the “Sunshine City,” St. Petersburg offers year-round warm weather and an array of outdoor activities, making it a popular destination for visitors and residents alike. Whether you’re interested in relaxing on the beach, exploring downtown, or immersing yourself in the arts, St. Petersburg has something to offer everyone.With over 3,000 acres of parkland, St. Petersburg is an outdoor enthusiasts’ paradise. The city is home to several parks and preserves, including the famous Fort De Soto Park, which offers miles of pristine beaches, hiking trails, and picnic areas. Additionally, the city is surrounded by water, making it the perfect destination for fishing, kayaking, and other water sports.In addition to its natural beauty, St. Petersburg also offers a wealth of cultural activities. 1. Cultural and educational museums.St. Petersburg, Florida is a vibrant city with a rich cultural and educational heritage. One of the best ways to experience this history is through the numerous cultural and educational museums scattered throughout the city. These museums offer visitors a chance to learn about the city's past, art, and culture, and to gain a deeper understanding of the community and its traditions. From the Museum of Fine Arts to the Dr. Carter G. Woodson African American Museum, the city has something for everyone. Visitors can explore exhibits on local history, art, and cultural traditions, as well as participate in educational programs and events. These museums are not only enjoyable for tourists, but they also play a vital role in preserving and promoting the city's unique heritage. Whether you're a resident or a visitor to St. Petersburg, a visit to one of these cultural and educational museums is a must.2. Beautifully preserved historic neighborhoods.St. Petersburg, Florida boasts a rich history that is beautifully preserved in its historic neighborhoods. Two of the most notable neighborhoods are Old Northeast and Historic Kenwood. Old Northeast is known for its stunning architecture that includes a blend of Mediterranean Revival, Colonial Revival, and Craftsman-style homes. Many of these homes were built in the early 1900s and have been meticulously maintained and restored. The neighborhood is also home to several parks and green spaces, adding to its charm and appeal. Historic Kenwood, on the other hand, is known for its bungalows and other historic homes that were built between the 1910s and 1950s. This neighborhood has a strong sense of community and is home to several annual events such as the Bungalowfest and the Artists Enclave Studio Tour. Visitors can take a stroll through these neighborhoods and admire the beautiful architecture and historic charm that has been preserved for generations to come.3. A vibrant art scene.St. Petersburg, Florida is home to a vibrant art scene that has been attracting visitors and artists alike for years. From museums and galleries to street murals and public art installations, the city offers a diverse range of art experiences for art enthusiasts and casual observers alike. The city's thriving arts community is supported by a wide range of initiatives and organizations, such as the St. Petersburg Arts Alliance and the Morean Arts Center, which work to promote local artists and foster a dynamic arts scene that reflects the city's unique culture and heritage. Whether you're interested in contemporary art or classic works, St. Petersburg is sure to have something to offer that will inspire and delight you.4. Top-rated dining options.St. Petersburg, Florida is home to a diverse and thriving culinary scene, with a multitude of top-rated dining options to choose from. Whether you're looking for fresh seafood, farm-to-table cuisine, or international flavors, St. Petersburg has something to satisfy every palate. Among the top-rated dining options in the area is Il Ritorno, a cozy Italian eatery that has received critical acclaim for its homemade pastas and innovative dishes. Another must-try restaurant is The Mill, which offers a contemporary take on Southern cuisine in a stylish rustic-chic setting. For seafood lovers, the award-winning Sea Salt St. Pete is a must-visit, with an impressive selection of fresh seafood and a wine list featuring over 20,000 bottles. Finally, for a unique dining experience, head to Red Mesa Cantina, which offers a fusion of Mexican and Southwestern cuisine in a lively and colorful atmosphere. With so many top-rated dining options to choose from, St. Petersburg is a foodie's paradise.5. Award-winning beaches.St. Petersburg, Florida offers a range of outdoor activities and attractions for visitors. One of the most impressive features of the city is its award-winning beaches. The area’s pristine white sands and clear blue waters have won numerous accolades over the years, including being named the number one beach in the United States by TripAdvisor in 2021. St. Petersburg's beaches are known for their cleanliness, safety, and range of amenities, making them the perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. From lounging in the sun to swimming, water sports, and beachside dining, the award-winning beaches in St. Petersburg provide something for everyone. Visitors can relax and enjoy the beauty of the Gulf of Mexico while taking advantage of the many services available, such as beach chair and umbrella rentals, water sports equipment, and on-site dining options. It's no surprise that St. Petersburg's beaches continue to attract visitors from all over the world year after year.6. Plenty of outdoor activities.St. Petersburg, Florida is a destination that offers an abundance of outdoor activities for visitors and residents alike. With its warm, sunny weather and picturesque waterfront parks, there is no shortage of opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. From beaches and boating to hiking and biking, St. Petersburg has something for everyone. With more than 244 miles of coastline, visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, and sunbathing at some of the most beautiful beaches in the country. The city also boasts over 150 parks, including the famous Fort De Soto Park, which offers camping, kayaking, and bird watching. In addition, visitors can enjoy biking or walking along the scenic Pinellas Trail, which stretches 38 miles from St. Petersburg to Tarpon Springs. The abundant outdoor activities in St. Petersburg make it an ideal destination for those who enjoy exploring the great outdoors.7. Accessible public transportation system.St. Petersburg, Florida values a modern and accessible public transportation system that can efficiently connect residents and visitors to various destinations within the city. The city has invested in a comprehensive transportation plan that includes the expansion of public transportation options. Our goal is to provide affordable, reliable, and convenient transportation options that support the daily routines and lifestyles of our residents. We have implemented several initiatives to achieve this goal, such as the introduction of a modern bus rapid transit system, bike-sharing programs, and increased sidewalk infrastructure. Additionally, we have partnered with local businesses and community organizations to provide accessible transportation options for residents with disabilities and those with limited mobility. We will continue to prioritize the development of a modern and accessible public transportation system that meets the evolving needs of our community.8. Home to several universities.St. Petersburg, Florida, is a vibrant city that is home to several universities. Among them is the University of South Florida St. Petersburg, which offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs in fields such as business, education, and environmental science. The city is also home to St. Petersburg College, which has several campuses and offers associate and bachelor's degree programs in fields such as healthcare, technology, and education. Additionally, St. Petersburg is home to the Poynter Institute for Media Studies, a globally recognized school for journalists and media professionals. With its diverse range of educational institutions, St. Petersburg provides a rich learning environment for students of all ages and backgrounds.9. Hosts several annual festivals.St. Petersburg, Florida is a vibrant city that is known for its cultural and artistic offerings. One of the highlights of the city is its numerous annual festivals. St. Petersburg hosts several festivals throughout the year, each with its unique theme and attractions. These festivals attract a large number of visitors from all over the country, making St. Petersburg a must-visit destination. Some of the famous festivals include the St. Petersburg Jazz Festival, the Mainsail Art Festival, the SunLit Festival, and the St. Pete Beach Seafood and Music Festival, among others. These festivals showcase the city's rich cultural heritage and provide a platform for artists, musicians, and performers to showcase their skills. With so many festivals taking place throughout the year, visitors can experience the city's vibrant energy and enjoy a wide range of activities and entertainment options.10. A welcoming and diverse community.St. Petersburg, Florida is known for its warm weather, beautiful beaches, and thriving arts scene. However, what truly sets this city apart is its welcoming and diverse community. Residents and visitors alike are greeted with open arms and a friendly smile, regardless of their background, ethnicity, or beliefs. From the thriving LGBTQ+ community to the growing Hispanic population, St. Petersburg has become a melting pot of cultures and ideas. The city celebrates its diversity through events and festivals that showcase the different cultures and traditions that make up its community. As a result, St. Petersburg is a city that is inclusive, tolerant, and welcoming to all. Whether you are a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, you will feel right at home in this vibrant and diverse community.In conclusion, St. Petersburg, Florida is a charming destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From the world-class museums to the stunning beaches and outdoor activities, the city has something for everyone. The thriving arts scene, diverse culinary offerings, and warm hospitality of the locals make it a top travel destination. Whether you are looking for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, St. Petersburg is a must-visit destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Get your FREE consultation! Call NOW

Get your FREE consultation! Call NOW

Get your FREE consultation! Call NOW

Read the full article

[dnaamericaapp]

Freedom Schools Launching To Teach Black History In Florida

As kids head back to school, there’s at least one subject that’s being talked about more outside of the classroom by state and local leaders.

The Board of Education released a new curriculum for African American history in grades K-12, and critics say it’s harmful to students, pointing out a section from the curriculum that says African Americans benefited from slavery.

The education commissioner is standing by those changes, and people across the state are pushing back, using a tool that dates back to before schools were integrated: Freedom Schools.

On the street in front of The Woodson Museum in St. Petersburg, the words “Black History Matters” are painted as a mural. That message and the history on the block alone is what made The Woodson the perfect place to launch a Freedom School.

Jacqueline Hubbard with the Association of African American Life and History’s St. Pete chapter said she gave the concept a lot of thought.

“I was really active in the student nonviolent coordinating committee when I was in college," Hubbard said. "And I remember I was part of the freedom summer. I remember the Freedom Schools. And I wrote an article for the Weekly Challenger saying, 'Don’t you think it’s time we revisit the Freedom Schools? Don’t our kids need to be taught their own history?' Who can better teach it then those of us who are of the same group.”

Hubbard also reacted to changes that were made to the new African American History teaching standards.

"The curriculum is an abomination," she said. It makes me very angry when I read what they want to teach children."

The Association of African American Life and History talked about an idea to launch a Freedom School back in 2014 and this summer in St. Pete, they graduated their first class. It’s something organizers say is perfect timing. -(source: spectrum 9 bay area news)

DNA America

“It’s what we know, not what you want us to believe.”

#dna #dnaamerica #news #politics

[orebic-travel]

St. Petersburg, Florida Vacation Travel Guide | Expedia

St. Petersburg, Florida Vacation Travel Guide | Expedia

St. Petersburg – Soak up the endless Florida sun here, then venture on to explore the city’s artsy side. Check out all the places we visited in this video: …

[jazzerphoto]

Antioch Reclaimed Mosiacs at the Museum of Fine Arts

We are back at the new exhibit “Antioch Reclaimed” at the St Pete Museum of Fine Arts in Saint Petersburg, Florida. This exhibit has the history of many mosiacs and lots of large examples from the study done with Princeton and the MFA in the 1930s. Antioch was a city founded in 300 BC by one of Alexander the Great’s generals on the Eastern Mediterranean about 1 mile inland at the beginning of the…

[longlistshort]

(Hung Liu “Portrait of China Mary”, 2006, Oil on canvas)

Currently at The James Museum in St. Pete, is From Far East to West: The Chinese American Frontier, an informative show that includes many beautiful paintings. There’s so much history in America that often doesn’t get taught in school. This is a great opportunity to learn about this immigration story through artwork as well as text.

From the museum about the exhibition-

While European American settlers gradually pushed the United States frontier westward throughout the 1800s, the West coast of the country was developing independently as well. Accelerated by the discovery of gold mid-century, the population boom included Chinese immigrants who crossed the Pacific Ocean to California.

Most 19th century Chinese immigrants came to their new country from the coastal Canton region (province of Guangdong today) in southeastern China. Starting over on a different continent away from familiar surroundings and culture would be challenging, but for many decades anti-Chinese hostility and exclusion laws made settling in the United States even more difficult. The achievements of Chinese immigrants paved a path for future generations and are a testament to strength and perseverance.

The foundation for the exhibition highlights narratives of Chinese America from the 1850s to the 1930s. The paintings-all created by Chinese Americans in the 21st century-reflect inspiration from this history. The painters are also fueled by their own, more recent immigration stories to the United States after China’s Cultural Revolution (1966-1976) and their rigorous art training in the government-sponsored movement of Socialist Realism. After China opened to the rest of the world in the late 1970s, many Chinese artists-like Mian Situ, Jie Wei Zhou, Benjamin Wu, Hung Liu, and Z.S. Liang, all featured here were inspired to immigrate to the United States in search of greater opportunity.

Here, these artists’ historical interpretations speak to culture, identity, community, and resilience. Related objects and ephemera from the period support these stories. From the Gold Rush to Angel Island, this exhibition reveals often overlooked but significant contributions and perspectives of Chinese immigrants that deepen our understanding of U.S. history.

Hung Liu “Dandelion with Small Bird”, 2017 Mixed media

About the above painting from the museum-

Dandelions and their fluffy seed pods can be found anywhere in the world and thrive wherever they land. Their migratory nature allows them to survive a journey across vast lands even across oceans and take root anywhere in the world. For Liu, the dandelion represents her own tenacity and ability to thrive in the face of adversity.

The dandelions, fragile in nature and tattered by the lightest breeze, mimic how images, and personal narratives, too, can be scattered by time and the winds of history —as well as by the rhythms of feast and famine … –Hung Liu

Mian Situ “Blasting a Route Through the Sierra Nevada, 1865, Central Pacific Railroad”, 2018, Oil on canvas

Mian Situ “The Gold Seekers , Chinese Camp, 1850”, 2015, Oil on canvas

Jie Wei Zhou “Dragon Parade”, 2012, Oil on Linen

This exhibition is on view until 1/28/24.

[sfaioffical]

SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA:

Pete’s Café - SFAI In The 90’s In the 90s, many SFAI students worked for and exhibited artwork at Pete’s Café, which was situated on the roof of SFAI’s Chestnut Street Campus. On view January 10 through February 16, The Great Highway Gallery presents a group exhibition featuring several SFAI-affiliated artists, including John Lindsey, Dave Arnn, Daric Cheshire, Colin Chillag, Wren Coe, Diana Coopersmith, Adrienne Eberhardt, Connie Goldman, Jeremy Harper, Gerald Hawk, Cliff Hengst, Scott Hewicker, Johanna Jackson, Xylor Jane, Patricia Kavanaugh, Yasmin Lambie-Simpson, Mario Lemos, Ted Lincoln, Lydia Linker, Linton, Jennifer Locke, Sally Lundburg, Mads Lynnerup, Spencer Mack, J Matt, Alicia McCarthy, Barry McGee, Palmerin Merges, Karla Milosevich, Ruby Neri, Eamon Ore-Giron, Maurizzio Hector Pineda, Will Rogan, Cynthia Rojas, Rocio Santillana, Christian Spruell, Steven Starfas, Keith Tallett, Rafael Vieira, Benji Whalen, Mark Wilson, and more!

Lighting the Council Fire: Paintings of Suiko Betsy McCall (MFA 2009) On view through January 30 at San Francisco’s Zen Center, Suikos writes about Lighting the Council Fire: “Whether with a pencil or paint, these works on paper explore the interaction between a structure set up by an evolving, repeating system and the unpredictable chaos of the spill, smudge, or breath-initiated brushstroke. By engaging the repetitive rhythms of practice, my work also aims to reshape my life as an Artmonk.”

Image: April Martin, cali fantazies. © April Martin

Cali Fantazies – April Martin (MFA 2019) Cali Fantazies is a multimedia art installation on view at the Museum of the African Diaspora (MoAD) through March 3, 2020. On February 13, April Martin is curating a special event, Cali Fantazies: Righteous Ratchet Joy, where performers from the legendary underground black queer party “Cali Fantazies” will be performing at MoAD. Come witness the magic, allure, and stunts of performers in a not to be missed experience. This event will be a space where queer Black folks can enjoy the many talents of BADASS Black Women. We will shout with joy and make it shower with flowers as beautiful black women pole twerk and booty bounce in a celebration of Black Women. We welcome you to immerse yourself in MoAD’s latest exhibition, groove to the electrifying sounds of DJ Lady Ryan and laugh out loud at hilarious host Ms. Bleu Sugar from Coochieliscious Entertainment as she narrates the mesmerizing performances by Cali Fantazie’s dancers.

This event will be honoring the legacy of queer black club life and the closure Bench and Bar and Club 21, the last remaining black and brown queer clubs in Oakland.

Mind / Body / Spirit / Land – Susanne Siminger (MFA 1987) Please join Susanne for the artist reception on Friday, January 17 at the Gail Van Dyke Gallery in the MarinHealth Medical Center in Greenbrae for the opening of Mind / Body / Spirit / Land: Oils and Water Colors inspired by Our Beautiful Land.

Panel Discussion: Re-Imagining Equity in the Art World 2020, with Katherine Vetne (MFA 2015) On January 18, Katherine Vetne joins local artists Erica Deeman and Indira Allegra, as well as curators Heidi Rabben and James Voorhies to discuss their art practices, concerns and challenges, and where the equity movement might lead in the coming years. This panel is organized by ArtTable, which is celebrating 40 years of women's advocacy and professional development. Katherine will also have work on view at the Catherine Clark Gallery booth at Untitled San Francisco, July 17–19, 2020.

Image: Michael Jang, Ramones Free Concert, Civic Center Plaza, San Francisco, 1979, gelatin silver print. Courtesy the artist. © Michael Jang

In Conversation: Michael Jang (MFA 1977), Sandra S. Phillips, and Nion McEvoy For the closing of Michael Jang’s California, photographer Michael Jang and curator Sandra S. Phillips are joined by Nion McEvoy for a wide-ranging conversation about the resonances of place, person, and time in Jang’s work. This first retrospective exhibition presents a rare, immersive journey through Jang’s career, from the 1970s to the present, and is curated by Phillips, SFMOMA curator emerita of photography and Jang’s longtime collaborator.

Fresh Focus – Jordan Holms (MFA 2019) Join Jordan Holms on Wednesday, January 14, at 4pm for a meet and greet for Fresh Focus, an exhibition featuring small-size artworks by recent and current MFA artists of the Bay Area.

Spiders from Mars – Ben Venom (MFA 2007) Please join alum, Ben Venom for the opening reception for Spiders from Mars on January 15 at St. Joseph’s Art Society. On view January 17 – February 15, 2020.

Forbidden Illusions – Whitney Lynn (MFA 2007) Whitney Lynn invites you to "forbidden knowledge", anaglyph collages created while an Artist-in-Residence at LightSource SF. On view through February 1, 2020.

Displaced - Spencer Keeton Cunnigham (BFA 2010) Please join Spencer for the closing reception of Displaced at 6pm on February 9 at The Midway Gallery. He is consistently working on new ideas for art whether that is in the form of paintings, drawings, murals and installations that dive deep into topics relating to his personal relationship on Native American rights, cultural representation, social change and activsm. Spencer’s artwork has been on broadcast television, in motion pictures and exhibited throughout the U.S. and beyond. His art can currently be found on display in the Permanent Collection of the Berkeley Art museum, The Crocker Museum in Sacramento and in print form in the permanent book collection at the Smithsonian Museum of the American Indian in Washington D.C. Cunningham was also recently inducted into the World Congress of Art History in Bejing China by Art Historian Elaine O'Brien.

Video: A preview of Spencer Keeton Cunningham’s solo exhibition, Displaced, The Midway Gallery, San Francisco. Courtesy the artist.

“Rackets” and “Laminates” – Richard Goldberg (MFA 1987) Opening February 1 at 1pm at Far Out Gallery, this show will feature selections from two recent groups of work: “Rackets” and “laminates”.

The “Rackets” are an ongoing group of wall mounted, mixed media sculptural works. Theses sculptures are made with a variety of found objects and materials which take on new identities and meanings as they are synthesized into a single artwork of rhyming shapes, forms and imagery. Each “Racket” work has its own engaging identity, and story to tell.

Shown alongside of the “Rackets” will be collages that are called “Laminates” These works are 2 dimensional, irregular shaped collages of images, symbols, photographs and other visual material. These shaped collages are then laminated and cut out, to become a kind of flat sculpture with shapes and voids around the perimeter of each collage but also within and throughout the entire composition. They are floated in a shadow box frame which brings out their 3 dimensionality. The “Laminates” were a product of an evolution of ideas and impulses that lead the artist to move on to the more robust 3 dimensionality of the “Rackets”.

Mike Henderson: The Black Paintings + David Simpson: Interference On view through March 28, 2020 at Haines Gallery.

Mike Henderson: The Black Paintings (MFA 1970): Showcasing a body of related works made primarily in the 1990s by recent Artadia Award winner Mike Henderson, the paintings included in this exhibition feature a rich palette of lush blacks, steel grays, and ultramarine blues. Set against the darkness, small shapes of bright blues, yellows, and reds flicker like jewels. Henderson’s experimental films from the 1960s, 70s, and 80s will be shown in dialogue with the paintings. Politically charged and wickedly funny, these remarkable shorts have been screened at museums and festivals around the world. In addition to the exhibition, The Mike Henderson Band will be performing on January 17 as part of UNTITLED, ART San Francisco. Click here for tickets and more information!

David Simpson: Interference (BFA 1956): Acclaimed Bay Area painter David Simpson’s exhibition takes its title from his use of “interference” pigments, which shift in color with changes in light and the viewer’s perspective. Each canvas on view is the result of up to thirty coats of paint, meticulously layered to create a deep, lustrous surface. Now in his 90s, Simpson continues to delight with works of remarkable dynamism, evoking the movement of clouds, or the play of light across water, ultimately offering viewers a powerful space of contemplation.

Shaw & Co. - Richard Shaw (BFA 1965, Martha Shaw (BFA 1966), Alice Shaw (MFA 1999), Virgil Shaw & Friends (Extended through January 31, 2020!) Gallery 16’s exhibition “Shaw & Co.” presents a collection of work by members of the Richard and Martha Shaw Family, plus a plethora of SFAI-affiliated artists—faculty and alums—including Richard Shaw, Martha Shaw, Alice Shaw, Rebeca Bollinger, Mike Henderson, Don Ed Hardy, Bob Hudson, Sahar Khoury, Alicia McCarthy, Jim Melchert, Ruby Neri, Cornelia Schulz, Wanxin Zhang, and more!

BoundarySpan – Aaron Wilder (MFA 2017) A group exhibition curated by Aaron Wilder and featuring the work of alums Michael Arcega (BFA 1999), Jimin Lee (MFA 1997), Paula Levine (MFA 1988), Sherwin Rio (MA 2019), and Desiree Rios (MFA 2017), BoundarySpam reopens on January 27 at the Nathalie and James Thompson Art Gallery at San José State University and will continue through February 21.

Wikipedia:Meetup/San Francisco/Black History Month Wiki-a-thon at Prelinger Library – Niki Korth (MFA 2012) Niki Korth invites you to an afternoon of exploring, discussing, researching, writing, and working together to help improve Wikipedia articles. Attendees are welcome to work on whatever they like and are inspired to from the Library's holdings. For those interested, they will have a concerted focus on working toward closing the diversity gap of coverage on Wikipedia of notable persons of African descent and their achievements and related movements, organizations, events, ideas, projects, and more. Prelinger Library founders Megan and Rick will be present to help attendees find resources from the Library's collections, and there will be experienced Wikipedians present to help Wiki newcomers to get started and answer questions.  A Mediterranean lunch will be served, so please come with both hungry minds and stomachs.

Little Rock, Arkansas

American Veterans of Arkansas – Edward Drew (BFA 2014) The Mosaic Templars Cultural Center Museum in Little Rock, Arkansas has commissioned a year-long exhibition from Edward Drew, American Veterans of Arkansas, which uses 5 x 7 tintypes to profile African-American military veterans who are also Arkansans. “African Americans are fairly underrepresented in most sectors, including veterans and veteran contributions to this country,” Drew said. “I thought it was important tthat I speak to the narrative. Then, being a state in the South, it’s important to show tha the rick history of the Southern states has always coincided with African American contributions.”

Wilmington, Delaware

Midnight Mass – Amie Potsic (MFA 1999) Opening Friday, February 7 at 5pm: The Delaware Contemporary has invited Amie to exhibit a large-scale installation on view January 24 through April with over 250 feet of silk. Amie will be working with the museum's gargantuan atrium space to create a fresh design approach to her work.

Miami, Florida

Image: Installation view of Self-preservation (with or without applause), a group exhibition featuring work (far right) by Christopher Culver. Courtesy Primary Gallery.

Self-preservation (with or without applause) – Christopher Culver (BFA 2008) On view through January 28, Primary Gallery is proud to present Self-preservation (with or without applause), a group exhibition featuring alum, Christopher Culver.

Chicago, Illinois

Performance - Norman Long (MFA 2001) Please join Norman Long at Elastic Arts on Friday, January 31, for a special performance featuring LONG/ZALEK DUO.

Massachusetts

"We the People" is a group exhibition featuring work from Aaron Wilder’s (MFA 2017) collaboration with Guta Galli (MFA 2017) entitled "Sugar & Snails," on view through January 31, 2020 at the Dorothy and Charles Mosesian Center for the Arts in Watertown, Massachusetts.

Dancing In The Bardo and Human Impact: Stories of the Opioid Epidemic - John Christian Anderson (MFA 1972) Dancing In The Bardo is a solo show by alumnus John Christian Anderson, on view through January 26 at the Boston Sculptors Gallery. The group show Human Impact: Stories of the Opiod Epidemic is on view at Fullercraft Museum in Brockton, MA, through May 3, 2020.

Baltimore, Maryland

The Breath of Empty Space – Shaun Leonardo (MFA 2005) On view January 30 - March 15, 2020 at Maryland Institute College of Art: "For the last year I have been quietly finalizing plans for The Breath of Empty Space–a solo exhibition of 6 years of drawing concerning violence by the police and American legal system, being shown together for the first time and curated by the insightful and caring John Chaich. I am proud to finally announce this traveling exhibition for 2020 and hope you can join me to witness the work." —Shaun Leonardo

The Breath of Empty Space will also be on view at Museum of Contemporary Art Cleveland, June 5–September 6, 2020.

—INTERNATIONAL EXHIBITIONS—

Budapest, Hungary

Untitled No. 20, From Series Room ‘32’ – Michael Naify (MFA 2017) SFAI alum Michael Naify’s work, Untitled No. 20, From Series Room ‘32’, is featured in PH21 Contemporary Photo Gallery’s upcoming international photography exhibition entitled The self(ie) and the other: Portraiture—on view January 16–February 8, 2020.

Hamburg, Germany

Mother Tongue - Mika Sperling (MFA 2018) Mika's practice is based in photography, and engages ideas and concepts of family. Created during the recommended Olympus Fellowship, "the current project [Mother Tongue] is born out of the idea to include my situation as a new mother into my work. I am using photography, writing and video to search for familiarities between my husband’s and my family. I am documenting the evolving bond to my daughter, the changing relationship to my mother-in-law and that to my own mother." —Mike Sperling Check out this video where Mika discusses Mother Tongue and its familial lineages. Soon on view: Deichtorhallen Hamburg, March 21–June 14, 2020; Fotografie Forum Frankfurt, August 7–September 27, 2020; Foam Museum in Amsterdam, October 23, 2020–January 17, 2021.

Cambridge, UK

The Art of Watching Art – Patricia K. Kelly (MFA 1999) On view January 14–26 at Motion Sickness Project Space, The Art of Watching Art is a group exhibition showcasing a broad range of artworks from artists involved in the invigilation of previous exhibitions in the project space since August 2019, including our very own Patricia K. Kelly.

Do you have an upcoming exhibition or event? If you’re an SFAI alum, please fill out this form to be featured in our next roundup of alumni exhibitions and events.

Top Image Credit: Whitney Lynn, Song of the Sirens, 2019 archival pigment print on Legacy Etching paper, 30 x 40 inches. © Whitney Lynn Studios.

[1973listener-blog]

Historically St. Pete w/Rui Farias - St. Petersbur Museum of History Events & Kids' Fun https://audioboom.com/posts/8591866-historically-st-pete-w-rui-farias-st-petersbur-museum-of-history-events-kids-fun

[jewishtraces]

Sons of Israel, 1901

420 S William St, South Bend, Indiana

South Bend, now famous as the home of Mayor Pete Buttigieg, has one of the more unusual former synagogues, now a baseball team’s gift shop, and the only historic synagogue inside a baseball stadium.

Jews began settling in South Bend in the late 1840s and ’50s, and by 1878, the town had 125 Jewish residents. The Hebrew Orthodox congregation, the town’s first religious organization, was incorporated in 1887, and they built this synagogue in 1901, designed by local architects Freyemuth and Maurer. It was first used for the High Holidays that year. Immigration from Russia and Poland increased the Jewish population to 1,200 by 1912. By the middle of the century, the town had six synagogues, along with many Jewish businesses. But, as with many small towns in the latter half of the century, the young people moved away and membership declined. The congregation switched affiliations in the 1980s, briefly becoming the B’nai Yisrael Reconstructionist Congregation, and the last services were held in 1990. The last two members, David Piser, president of the Michiana Jewish Historical Society, and his uncle, Mendel, tried to preserve the building but ultimately had to close it.

The building was donated to the Indiana Landmarks Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to finding new uses for old buildings, which renovated it, and then sold it in 2005 to be a private residence. Either ownership reverted to Indiana Landmarks when the buyer couldn’t provide more renovations, or the city bought it back as part of a urban development project--accounts differ. Plans to repurpose it as a museum or move it were thwarted by the recession in 2007-8, and it remained vacant until 2012. After consulting with local rabbis, Andrew Berlin, new Jewish owner of the South Bend Silver Hawks (a Class A minor league team, then linked to the Arizona Diamondbacks), bought the building, which since 1986 sat at the edge of the ballpark fence, and renovated it for $1 million, including $40,000 on the brass chandelier. In September 2014, the team signed an agreement with the Chicago Cubs and changed their name to the South Bend Cubs. The building is now part of the Four Winds Field stadium and operates as the team’s gift shop. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 2013.

Big Idea Company, a Mishawaka-based marketing and public relations firm, received a regional Emmy award in 2013 for “Outstanding Achievement for Public Affairs Programming” for a four-minute film documenting the history of the "Ballpark Synagogue.”

Photos and info: Elkart Truth,  Michiana Jewish Historical Society, National Park Service, Chicago Jewish News/Andrew Berlin, New York Times, MLB, The Post-Game, NBC News, New Yorker, South Bend Tribune

[ffiona56]

Hols May 2019

Monday 20th May 2019: managed to catch the train from Notts to Skegness (by the skin of my teeth). Arrived in lovely sunshine, a couple of hours early for the guest house, but the lovely lady said I could check in anyway as the room was ready. Nice part of Skegness actually: opposite the sand dunes and the other side of the clock tower to where I normally stay. Dumped the bag, quick coffee and out for a wander. 

First stop: Jacket Potato on the Pier. This is always my first stop lol. Suitably nourished, I took a walk up the main road, ducking in and out of the gift shops; my frugalistic motto is - it's probably cheaper at the next shop. Also had a look in the multitude of charity shops whilst on my wanders. Later on, I took a tour of the sand dunes, which was really lovely. Not even been down this end of Skegness before, strangely! Tide was out so a nice stretch of beach to walk/paddle down. Had a sit down in the dunes and just watched the ocean - so relaxing.

So you REALLY have to do the pier whilst in Skegness lol - (I even have a loyalty card for my tickets hahaha). Checked the balance, but didn't see anything I wanted in the gift area, so added a few more points to the total instead. Might save up for something BIG lol.

Didn't really do anything spectacular on my flying visit, but it was so lovely just to see the sea again, and visit a place I feel at home in.

Tuesday 21st: caught the 10.15am train back to Nottingham, then straight down to St Pancras, arriving around 2ish. It's been over 40 years since I visited London, so I was really looking forward to the trip. Found the hotel really quickly 2 - 3 min walk from the station! However, it was in a lovely, quiet square. You would never believe Euston Road was only a few hundred yards away! Room was small, but perfectly adequate. Bathroom was immaculate! But that bed....OMG a 3/4 bed with 3 massive soft pillows! Comfortable is not the word....I want one!! Yet again, dumped the bag, quick coffee, and decided to walk along Euston Road first, to see what was close by. With the help of Google of course!

British Library was my first stop! I'd been looking forward to this since I booked the holiday. Very imposing place; floor to ceiling books. Loads of students with laptops inside; all beavering away conscientiously. You had to have a pass to access most of the stuff, but just looking around the place took my breath away! Sat outside the main entrance for a while later; it was a lovely sun trap with a great view. Chatted to a nice lady who asked where I had my hair done (LOL). Watched all the busy, busy commuters rushing around whilst we were sunbathing hahaha

Multitude of sirens blasting along Euston Road and lots of police presence, around 6ish, so cowardy custard (me) decided to call it a day and go back to the hotel - with food of course!

Wednesday 22nd: put my brave girl knickers on, and decided to do the Underground. Let me explain - I had NO INTENTION of using the tube. Horrible thing. Don't do underground. Don't do crowds. Don't do not knowing where the heck I'm going. BUT I wanted to go to Camden Market, but not arrive footsore. One stop on the Northern Line. Scanned my Oyster Card and went through the barriers like a pro! Got on the right train (lol), and off we went. It was really cool LOL. Loved it!! My new favourite pastime! Who knew??

Oh Camden Market was fabulous! My first (of only 2, suprisingly) encounter with a slightly eccentric character was on the way here hahaha. Nice man. Stopped me in the street, and proclained 'Jesus loves you'. I thanked him and continued.

Took a couple of videos walking through the cobbles; some amazing stalls - especially the Indian ones. They smelled SO good too! Found the canal, and walked the path for a while. Weirdly though, I seemed to end up where I started lol. My sense of direction is really shit! Bought a few trinkets and went on my way. Suddenly I had the urge to go see some non-humans. I figured the zoo was the best place for that, so I walked all the way to Regents Park (with the help of Google directions) and paid the £30 entrance fee. Actually, that was the minimum I thought it would cost - I was prepared for more to be honest.

Highlights: 1. In with the Lemurs - they really don't have a problem with humans! It was lovely to see them so close!! 2. The tiger slinking into the water for a drink and a cool off. His little face was a picture, bless his heart! 3. Penguins! They were really showing off lol; swimming past us back and forth. I swear they were grinning!

Spent a couple of hours at the zoo; bought a bag of crisps for £1 (still smarting from that one!). Found out the nearest tube was Camden Town, so started the long walk back from where I came. Back to the hotel for a snack, then off in the opposite direction to the British Museum.

Now this I had been looking forward to for ages! Some of the artefacts gave me a strange feeling to be honest; particularly the african ones. I felt I shouldn't be taking photos or 'something would get me' hahahaha. (I did though) I think I've been reading way too many horror stories! Nevertheless, they really do have some weird kind of aura about them. The Chinese and Indian sections were no less compelling; not in a 'woooooooo' kind of way, but more 'aahhhhhh wow' if you catch my drift. I've always been interested in Chinese history; I love Chinese vases, ornaments, buddha's, jade figurines - you name it. Fascinating. The Egyptian section was really cool too. Cannot believe how OLD some of the artefacts are for pete's sake - 6000BC! I'm speechless. After a few hours here, I felt extremely educated in matters of history, geography and a number of other subjects! Yay me. Give us a mortar!

Bought food yet again (the stalls near Kings Cross station are fantastic!) mostly bread and cheese lol. Seem to be living mostly on bread and cheese (I did buy some tomatoes, apples and bananas though) Back to hotel after an amazing day.

Thursday 23rd: last day but determined to make it count! No rush to get home, so checked out of the hotel at 9am, but was able to leave my bag till I caught the train later in the day. First stop, Underground Map lol. Had a browse, and thought I would go to Trafalgar Square. So this was the sardine tube trip hahahaha. I had already been warned not to go on the tube before 9.30am by my son, but did I listen? Me: ok I won't. Also Me: I'm going anyway. Actually I just wanted to see what it was like at rush hour LOL. Busy. Packed. But suprisingly not smelly (considering the number of peeps).

Trafalgar Square was beautiful! I knew Nelson's Column was tall, but nothing prepares you for seeing it for the first time! Had a job fitting it into a photo lol - I think you need to be half a mile away! Fountains were gorgeous too. Sat a while, but conscious that I wanted to see more of London before the day was up. Back to the Underground Map.

So the lady in the hotel had said it was Polling day, so where better than the Borough of Westminster? She told me to wave if I got in front of the cameras LOL. I saw the cameras, but used my avoidance tactics! Walked up to Downing Street instead - caught a glimpse of the London Eye through the trees across the road, so at least I saw it! Huge security and police presence throughout Westminster area - don't think I've ever seen so many! Downing Street was a bit boring - steel bars and no admittance. But at least I saw it lol.

Took a walk around, and came upon Birdcage Walk. Noticed a lot of people around and also some mounted uniformed chaps, so stood by the railings to see what was going on. OMG the amazing Horse Guards Parade!! What a wonderful sight to behold; marching band and marching guards; a true British experience. Made me proud to be a Brit to be honest, and I've never really been THAT patriotic. Seeing and hearing the parade just gives you this wonderful feeling!! It was so cool. Loved it! Yay the Brits!

Time starting to move on now, so back to my Tube Map lol. Decided on Tower Bridge for my last stop before home. So this tube trip was where I met my second strangeling! Very tall, long grey hair, long grey beard, massive black bible on his knee; spouting Corinthians at whoever would listen. AND he sat next to me hahahaha. These biblical types do seem to like me! Or maybe they are trying to save me.....who knows!

So arrived at Tower Hill station, and a short walk brought me my first glimpse of Tower Bridge. Wow it was compelling! I was pretty gobsmacked at the sight of it; I think I took about a million photos lol. To be honest, when I was in my teens and twenties, I didn't really look around much when visiting London. There was always a reason for going - usually either our band gigging, or watching other bands. I guess that's why these landmarks seem amazing to me now. I have turned into a real tourist!

So back to Kings Cross - and a last visit to the bread and cheese stalls hahaha. Needed some sustenance on the way back! And so back into St Pancras with it's beautiful ceiling; love this station! Up the escalator and onto the train. Goodbye London - I think I packed quite a bit into my few days! Loved every moment.