Growing up in Florida, I’ve always enjoyed living by the ocean. It’s a big, enchanting, beautiful, sometimes dangerous, awe-inspiring playground.
This issue is packed to the gills (sea what I did there) with saltwater-oriented fun. For starters, you’ll discover how Bradenton-made Yellowfin Yachts provide Floridians with more than just a fishing boat; they are also a generous source of charitable giving. If you are looking to give back while fishing, we have a fishing tournament around the corner for the Children’s Dream Fund that any team can enter. We also sat down with Captain James Kasper and discussed the coveted sport of tarpon fishing. It’s safe for me to say, he’s a total pro. Working up that appetite, we’ve included a listing of restaurants that serve on the water! If you prefer your own grub, check out our ideas on what to pack in your own boat cooler, from full meals to quick snacks. And of course, no boat cooler would be complete without refreshing drinks! Your #FLocalTeam went on a tour of downtown St. Petersburg breweries to see which brews would complement your palate; brewed and served with local love, and also available at your neighborhood Publix.
We have a few other surprises in this issue, like locally-made swimsuit company ABKinis showing off the colors of spring to get you out in the sun for that base tan. Linda Heath brings her love of fishing to the canvas by using an ancient method of artistry called gyotaku. FLocal editor Ryan Rindone sat down (literally) with local company, E-SeaRider Marine Bean Bags, which offers us all a softer boat ride with their superior bean bags!
There are also a few popular articles from our blog that our readers enjoyed so much, we decided to include them in this issue! Learn about the future of youth sports facilities, and locally-focused elder care. Discover how to set up a Roth IRA, and the new face of the Raymond James Tampa complex. Also, see the progress being made by the University of South Florida’s St. Petersburg campus to educate the financial minds of the future.
However you choose to play in the water, FLocal Magazine has you covered. Growing at over 200 digital subscriptions a day, we are blessed to have you as part of our ever-expanding #FLocal family.
Lathered in sunscreen, yours truly,
Britt Blume
