Social Seens... Photography by A.H. Tram
Beats on the Bayou Gala
This annual fundraiser for the Kathleen Monahan Foundation raises funds to help support the Tarpon Arts programs and
the renovations of the historic Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. It was held at the Tarpon Springs Heritage Museum
and featured the official unveiling of a new art installation by internationally renowned artist Christopher Still in the Museum’s
Ecology Wing. During the event, Christopher signed and personalized copies of his newest limited edition book.
John and Mary K. Wilson were the hosts and
emcees of the Gala at the Heritage Museum.
Jim McNeely congratulated his wife
Dr. Kathleen Monahan, the director of
the Tarpon Springs Arts program, on the
success of this memorable evening.
Kelly and Christopher Still were pleased
to have been honored by this permanent
installation.
Photography by Gram
Poet Laureate Cultural Encounter
Tampa Bay Businesses for Culture and the Arts (TBBCA) held a Cultural Encounter at the Museum of Fine Arts (MFA) in
St. Petersburg to celebrate the appointment of Helen Pruitt Wallace as St. Petersburg’s new Poet Laureate. During the program,
Dr. Kent Lydecker, the MFA’s director, stated that “Words count.” The Honorable Rick Kriseman, Mayor of St. Petersburg, pointed
out the importance of the further understanding of the power of poetry within the community. Susana Weymouth, TBBCA’s
executive director, introduced Peter Meinke, Florida’s current and St. Petersburg’s former Poet Laureate, who read some of his
poetry. Lorna Taylor, TBBCA’s president and chair, introduced the City’s new Poet Laureate Helen Pruitt Wallace, who gave
remarks and poetry readings.
The Honorable Bob Ulrich, former mayor of
St. Petersburg, and his First Lady Barbara
support the City’s ever-expanding
embracing of the arts and culture.
St. Pete’s new Poet Laureate
Helen Pruitt Wallace was congratulated by
her son Daniel Wallace, who came from
Boston for the occasion, and her husband
Peter Rudy Wallace.
Illustrator Jeanne Clark and her husband
Dr. Peter Meinke, St. Petersburg’s former
and Florida’s current Poet Laureate,
applauded Helen Pruitt Wallace’s selection.
JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2016 TAMPA BAY MAGAZINE 165