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“Jewel on the Gulf” A Photographic Celebration of Tarpon Springs and Its People Thoughts I cannot tell you exactly why I have a warm feeling for this place. Maybe it’s the mixture of ethnic people and their colorful traditions - or possibly the beauty of the winding bayous and red-bricked, tree-lined streets. Perhaps all of these elements, combined with my sense of belonging here, let me know that Tarpon Springs is a city to enjoy and explore; a place to call home. Various ethnic people have called and call Tarpon Springs their home. Native-Americans, African-Americans, Greek-Americans, Florida Crackers, Bahamians, Yankee Transplants, Spanish Explorers, and Key West Conchs – all have left their mark on Tarpon Springs history. All have contributed to the city’s allure and have enriched its culture. Explore for yourself this place known as “The Venice of the South.” Let its people and character allow you to see its inner soul. - Scott Keeler About the Photographer Scott Keeler, a photojournalist for the St. Petersburg Times, is a native of Basking Ridge, New Jersey. He earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Photojournalism from Bowling Green State University, Bowling Green, Ohio, in 1982. While living in Tarpon Springs, he fell in love with the people and places and decided he had to capture their images. He began his year-long project in September of 1992 and not only took photographs but got to know the people of Tarpon Springs. He eventually shot more than 3,000 frames then meticulously chose those he thought best represented the Tarpon Springs that he loved. Eighty-two of the images were enlarged and mounted then donated to the Tarpon Springs Cultural Center where they were displayed for several months. As part of the Center’s permanent collection, the photographs are displayed on an irregular basis. |
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City of Tarpon Springs |
