Here are a few businesses and artists that I support because they are good people and great people!

PEOPLE!

• Emily Page: www.emilypageart.com Emily is an incredibly talented painter who paints on canvas as well as copper. "Color and texture are hugely important in my work. Applied appropriately, they can actually elicit a visceral response from the viewer," says Emily Page, a California-born, Virginia-raised artist.

• Jayson Kaplan: www.jaysonkaplan.com

PLACES!

• Salon Jack: www.salonjack.com From classic to contemporary, from color to cuts, Salon Jack has been turning heads since it opened in 2004. It is located at 3215 S. MacDill Avenue, Suite I, Tampa, Fl 33629. 813-831-8955

• Simple Graces: www.simplegracesinc.com Doesn't get any sweeter than Daphne! She's he best! She makes original handcrafted necklaces, bracelets, and earrings are made of turquoise, Swarovski crystals, fresh water pearls, sterling silver, and fire polished glass beads.

• The Art of Touch: www.the-art-of-touch.com A unique massage and bodywork establishment is part clinic, part spa, and part art gallery The Art of Touch opened its doors in May and is a member of the Largo Chamber of Commerce. It is located at 12551 Indian Rocks Road in the Galleria Plaza, south of Belleair Bluffs and just north of Anona Elementary School

• Sakana Sushi Restaurant, wonderful atmosphere, great sushi and a fantastic staff! Located at 2908 W. Gandy Boulevard, Tampa, Fl 33611, 813-837-8744.

• USF Small Business Development Center: www.sbdc.usf.edu This is a great place to take classes, ask questions and get advice from an enthusiastic and encouraging staff.