Out of dozens and dozens of places I've tried to or have played at , without question the most welcoming and supportive business-owners and managements have been at Tarpon Springs and the farmers markets near here . (Fans have been truly incredible everywhere. I can't thank you enough !) Wow! I have been blown away ! Usually it's a fight and I have to know all the laws and be prepared to defend my right to play (I've been on the phone with the head of Secret Service once ! And have been to lots of city halls , admin buildings , and had a private meeting with a Fire Chief ). Sometimes there are clear rules , but most of the time it's very vague and I've learned I have to advocate for myself.
When I decided to leave my construction job and begin playing music full time, I didn't know where to start. My twin brother had built an amazing life in the Los Angeles area. He often performs on the Santa Monica pier. He is the main reason I was able to do what I'm doing today and I'll never get over it ! But we were living in Oklahoma and Maryland ... pretty far from California ! My wife and I came up with a plan. We decided to go to San Diego and try playing at Seaport Village and markets for a couple months. Then go to Washington DC and Maryland and try playing in the city for a few months. Then , to end the year , try playing in Disneyworld and Orlando area which turned into playing in the Tampa area .
That's why the friendliness, helpfulness, and upbeat attitude of my work-family here in Tarpon Springs took me by such surprise . They advocated for me ! They take amazing care of me . They know me and my family , and check in on the kids. They've gone out of their way to make me feel at home here . So much so that we decided to move and make a home here ! I live just three miles from where I play at the Sponge Exchange Village Center. And I'm so grateful I get to be a part of this chill , colorful , personality- full , happy town !
If you're visiting the area I'd love to see you and help make your vacation memories special:) I wanted to use this space to be able to support and draw attention to them ... I have been so blessed by the community here ! I'm going to share different restaurants and stores and people that are some of my favorite:) Here is some history and information about the town, too.
Love this little town and the life and home it's helped give my family and I ! Hope to see you out here someday too:)