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ome visit one of the area’s favorite places to shop, sightsee or just relax! Explore the fun at The Pier Aquarium and let their fish entertain you! Discover unique gifts and souvenirs at specialty shops, boutiques and galleries. Delight in our sit-down waterfront restaurants and the Dockside Eatery food court. Experience dolphin sightseeing tours, charter a sailboat, captain your own electric boat, pedal your way around downtown on a surrey bike, fish and feed the pelicans. Over 500 events annually. See you at The Pier!
Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Sales Barbara McGovern Vicki Kolb Senior Sports Editor Peter Martino Contributors Sylvie Damien Nancy Evans Marty Peters Deborah Quigley Roland Stone Photographers Melissa Wolcott Proofreader Charlie deCatta
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HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM’S VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS STROLL thru Dec. 23
Experience an old-fashioned holiday with your loved ones at Henry B. Plant Museum’s 29th annual Victorian Christmas Stroll continuing to Dec. 23, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm daily. Beneath towering silver minarets, an extravagantly adorned former Tampa Bay Hotel captures the spirit of the season – Victorian style. There are 14 exhibit rooms; each dazzling with trimmed trees uniquely designed in 19th century themes and antique holiday accessories. While strolling down the Grand Hallway, become immersed in carolers singing, Charles Dickens, toys and wrapped gifts, Christmas stockings and Old Saint Nick. Unique to this year is a game for children. Where’s Henry? Somewhere amid the myriad of decorations is an image of Henry Plant. Children will be entertained searching for Henry, the founder of the Hotel, strategically placed in each exhibit room. They will be given a checklist and if they can locate his image in every room, they will receive a prize. Santa Claus is coming to the Victorian Christmas Stroll on Wednesday, December 23rd from 10am-1pm. Complimentary with Stroll admission, Santa will sit in the authentic Writing and Reading Room of the Tampa Bay Hotel and listen to children’s requests. Guests may bring a camera to commemorate this unique occasion, but no flash photography in the Museum. The Victorian Christmas Stroll preserves the essence of an oldfashioned Christmas and is treasured as Tampa’s most popular family tradition. Complimentary spiced cider and savory cookies will be served on the veranda every day, and each evening carolers will perform music. Visitors are invited to sing with the carolers in front of the 18-foot tree in the hallway. Proceeds from the Victorian Christmas Stroll fund significant museum restoration and preservation projects, as well as educational programming. www.plantmuseum.com/Event-Information/events.html
TAMPA’S DOWNTOWN ON ICE - thru Jan 2
Through the New Year’s Holiday, an outdoor ice skating rink will be open daily for public skating. Skate times are Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 8 p.m., Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. - 10 p.m., Sunday - 12 Noon - 8 p.m. 90 minute skate time (includes ice skates). Join the Tampa Bay Lightning Dec 22 for a watch party when the Lightning visit the Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum to take on the New York Islanders, and again on Dec 23 when the Lightning visit Madison Square Garden to take on the New York Rangers. Fans are encouraged to bring their own blankets or lawn chairs to sit in the park. Former Lightning captain and 2004 Stanley Cup Champion, Dave Andreychuk will also be present to mingle with fans and sign autographs. Rolling Thunder, the Lightning Girls, Thunderbug and Lightning alumni will be on hand for fans’ enjoyment. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N Ashley Dr., Tampa, FL; www.tampasdowntownonice.com
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THE 34th ANNUAL OAKDALE CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAY - thru Jan 3
The Oakdale Christmas Display takes roughly 10 trailer loads to bring all the items from storage. They use approximately 609,751 lights, and three high capacity electric meters handle the power. A walking yard tour includes an 18-train HO scale model RR, many moving & animated items, lots of inflatable and lit up figures and displays, hands-on games and bubble machines for the kids, several Christmas trees tower over the display—rising to 70 feet, and the display covers about one-half acre. The display has been featured in People Magazine, NBC’s The Today Show--Al Be Home for Christmas contest, Nick News, the 700 Club, HSN, the Ron & Ron Christmas Special, Nickelodeon, Univision’s Primer Impacto, and HGTV’s All Out Christmas Special. The display takes place 6 pm to 10 pm, nightly, 2719 Oakdale Street S, St. Petersburg, FL; 727-896-6500; www.ChristmasDisplay.org
HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN THE GARDENS - thru Jan 2
Celebrating the 10th Anniversary of the Florida Botanical Gardens and the Holiday Season, 5:30-9:30. More than 425,000 colorful lights transform Florida Botanical Gardens into a holiday wonderland. Gardens glow with tropical plants, roses, fruits, herbs, hibiscus, bromeliads and more. Children Free - suggested $2 donation for adults. All pets must be on leashes. Special events include Gift and Plant Sale - Dec. 12 - 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Dog Parade - Dec. 26 - 3:00 p.m. For information call (727) 582-2100. Florida Botanical Gardens Foundation at 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo, 33774. www.flbg.org/
A GARLAND OF CHRISTMAS CHEER WITH ST. PETERSBURG COLLEGE MADRIGALIANS -
Dec. 10. This benefit concert is a student choral performance with piano accompaniment. A holiday reception with light refreshments will follow. The donation of $5 is to support this student choral ensemble. 7:30-9 p.m., Leepa-Rattner Museum on Art, Fine Arts Lobby, suggested donation $5. HOLIDAY FOOD BASKET - throughout December. The Museum will grant free admission in exchange for two canned or dry foods. LRMA will give the donations to the food pantry of the Shepherd Center of Tarpon Springs. Food items containing protein are preferred. www.leeparattnermuseum.wordpress.com/
PIER CHRISTMAS HOLIDAY STROLL - Dec 19
Looking for something fun to do with the whole family AND have a chance to win $1,000 in presents this Christmas? Go to The Pier’s Christmas Holiday Stroll from 1:00-6:00 p.m. This free family event will appeal to all ages. Presents, donated by Pier shops, restaurants and outdoor adventure providers, are on display next to Crystal Mirage Gallery on the first floor of The Pier. Tickets will be handed out between 1:00-5:00 p.m. and the drawing will be held at 5:00 p.m. by the Christmas Tree. YOU will choose the present of your choice from the display. One ticket per person. No purchase necessary. You must be present to win. During the afternoon, you can enjoy the following activities at The Pier: 1:00 p.m. – Big Tube Fish Restock by The Pier Aquarium 1:00-4:00 p.m. – “Bedazzled” performs in the Courtyard by the Bay with holiday music 2:00-5:00 p.m. – Visit Santa Claus next to the Christmas Tree and tell him what YOU want for Christmas. The first 100 children will receive a special gift from Santa. 5:00 p.m. – Drawing for the $1,000 in presents! 5:15-6:00 p.m. – “That’s Dancing!” Tap performance from Bonnie Gray Productions. www.stpetepier.com, or call 727.821.6443. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
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DUNEDIN HOLIDAY EVENTS
OLD FASHIONED CHRISTMAS & HOLIDAY PARADE - Dec 11, 4:00 - 9:00 PM in Downtown Dunedin. Watch the Holiday Parade at 4 PM with festive floats, bands and entertainers followed by the arrival of Santa. Then stay and mingle downtown for Old Fashioned Christmas. Enjoy the holiday ambiance of this special evening with live music, carriage rides, children’s activities, decorated lamp posts, Walk of Trees, quilters in store fronts, decorative window displays, luminaries, shopping, tasty food, and much more. DUNEDIN HOLIDAY CHORAL CONCERT Dec 12, 3 pm. The Dunedin Community Chorus presents their holiday concert entitled “Holiday Fantasy.” The eighty-voice chorus is the largest performing group in the City and for twenty years has been delighting local audiences with their talented performances in varieties of styles from traditional old holiday favorites, the classics, a Hanukah celebration song, to novelty numbers and solos. The concert is free. A $5.00 donation is suggested. The concert will be held at the Dunedin Community Center, 1920 Pinehurst Road, Dunedin; 727-812-4530; www.dunedingov.com/
A BIG BAND CHRISTMAS FEATURING THE 10 O’CLOCK SWING BAND - Dec 12
The 18 piece big band will perform a special holiday show in swinging style at the Largo Cultural Center on Dec 11 at 8pm and Dec 12 at 2pm. The 10 O’Clock Swing Band plays swinging holiday music for dancing and listening enjoyment. Tickets are $20 advance, $25 day of show. Cabaret seating with dance floor. The Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Drive, Largo; 727-587-6793; LargoArts.com
UNA VOCE: THE FLORIDA MEN’S CHORALE: A DICKENS OF A CHRISTMAS - Dec 17-19
Follow the merry, magical madness as Una Voce: The Florida Men’s Chorale unwraps it’s Holiday production entitled – “A Dickens of a Christmas.” The Chorale will explore an old world Christmas, one year after Scrooge discovers his heart. Hear timeless and classic carols, experience the festive, fun movements and feel the true spirit of Christmas - all in a new
light. Nothing is as it appears in Olde London Town. Since 2002, Una Voce: The Florida Men’s Chorale has been delighting audiences with their blend of rich harmonies and breadth of musical range. The men of Una Voce have performed around North America in cities such as Fort Worth, Denver, Montreal and at Carnegie Hall in New York City. Most recently, the men of Una Voce performed to standing ovations in Miami, Florida during the GALA Choruses Convention. For Concert or Una Voce venues and times, call 727-560-6044 or visit www.Una-Voce.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
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CRACKER COUNTRY CELEBRATES CHRISTMAS IN THE COUNTRY - Dec 18
‘Tis the season for Cracker Country’s annual Christmas celebration. Bring the family for a great day experiencing the sights, sounds and smells of an old fashion country Christmas. Learn how the holiday traditions of the 19th century differ from those of the 21st through hands-on historical interpretations, carols, traditional decorations and more. Enjoy making old fashion ornaments, and then try your hand at decorating your own salt dough ornament. Christmas in the Country is a themed event within the Discover the Past program. These events are designed to awaken your senses and bring you into Florida’s rural past. Discover the Past is offered the first and third Saturday of the month (October-December and March-April) between 10am and 4pm. Adult admission tickets are $7 each; students six to twelve years old and senior citizens tickets are $ 6 each. Children five and under are free. Parking is free for this event when visitors enter the Fairgrounds via the Orient Road entrance.
CHRISTMAS WITH THE FLORIDA BOYCHOIR - Dec 19
Join the Choirboys of the Florida Boychoir for a special concert of Christmas music on Dec 19 at 4 PM, at the Prince of Peace Catholic Church, 702 Valley Forge Blvd., Sun City Center. The program includes works from the English and German cathedral traditions. The featured work is Cantata #142 “Uns Ist Ein Kind Geboren” attributed to Johann Sebastian Bach along with a number of English Carols and holiday favorites. The boys will be accompanied by pipe organ, piano and chamber orchestra. A $10 donation is suggested to benefit the Florida Boychoir’s scholarship fund. Since its formation in 1986, hundreds of Choirboys have received vocal and music theory training. The Choirboys have given concerts throughout Florida and the United States. The choir has toured internationally to Austria, Belgium, Canada, Czech Republic, Germany, Iceland and Poland. The boys perform music of the masters as well as staged productions of one act operas and sang most recently with the Florida Orchestra in the “Lord Of The Rings Symphony” and the St. Pete Opera Company production of Bizet’s “Carmen”. The Florida Boychoir is housed at the historic St. Andrew’s Episcopal Church in downtown Tampa. In January two new Boychoirs will begin: The Tampa Boychoir and St. Petersburg Boychoir. For information, 813-671-7464; FloridaBoychoir.com
MOSCOW BALLET’S NUTCRACKER - Dec 28
GREAT
RUSSIAN
Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker is the must-see production of the season. Critically acclaimed for exquisite artistry, and dazzling sets and costumes, the Great Russian Nutcracker is the defining holiday experience. Enjoy this heartwarming performance featuring larger-than life puppets, pristine choreography in a not-to-be missed holiday celebration!
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D A V ID A . S T R A Z , J R . CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS SHOWS
FORBIDDEN BROADWAY: GREATEST HITS: Vol. 1 - thru Feb 20
Don’t miss the show Kathie Lee Gifford refers to as “the Saturday Night Live of Broadway.” FORBIDDEN BROADWAY is the longest-running musical revue in the world and “the funniest show in New York” (New Yorker Magazine). A favorite of all Broadway lovers, Tampa’s Forbidden Broadway cabaret revue sharply spoofs show tunes, characters and plots of contemporary and current Broadway musicals, and it will have you rolling in the aisles. The original version of the revue opened in New York in 1982 and ran for more than 2,300 performances. FORBIDDEN BROADWAY continues to be reincarnated and modernized to include parodies of newer shows and hysterical incarnations including Forbidden Broadway Goes to Rehab, Forbidden Hollywood and Forbidden Broadway: Special Victims Unit.
FIDDLER ON THE ROOF - Dec. 11-12
Fiddler†on the Roof is the Tony Award-winning musical that has captured the hearts of people all over the world with its universal appeal. Based on the stories of Sholom Aleichem,Fiddler on the Roof has been lauded by critics and won the hearts of people all around the world. The Fiddler on the Roof Tampa engagement is filled with a rousing, heartwarming score, which includes “Tradition,” “Matchmaker, Matchmaker,” “If I Were a Rich Man” and “Sunrise, Sunset,” Fiddler on the Roof is a timeless classic.
CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE - Dec. 17-19
Ornaments come to life when costumed characters perform astonishing feats that celebrate the holiday season with spectacle, imagination and whimsical dreams. The Cirque Dreams Holidaze Tampa engagement includes†gingerbread men flipping through the air, toy soldiers skillfully marching on thin wires, snowmen daringly balancing, icemen sculpting powerfully, penguins spinning, puppets caroling and reindeer soaring high above a landscape of holiday wonderment.
THE GOD OF ISAAC - thru Dec 19
Stageworks presents The God of Isaac by James Sherman. It’s the perfect holiday story, as one young man searches for his spiritual identity. A journey of discovery that is both hysterically funny and beautifully touching and in the end, spiritually revitalizing. Directed by Richard Coppinger, the play stars Logan Harrington, Alison Burns, Dahlia Legault, Eileen Koteles, Bill Karnovsky, Thomas Mothershed and Patrick Bolger. www.stageworkstheatre.org.
WONDERLAND THE MUSICAL - Jan 4-16
Wonderland is a story about a new Alice who has lost her joy in life. Estranged from her husband, alienated from her daughter and in danger of losing her career, Alice finds herself in Wonderland where she encounters strange though familiar characters that help her rediscover the wonder in her life.
Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 813-229-7827, www.tbpac.org.
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HOLIDAY SHOWS HOLIDAY CLASSIC THE NUTCRACKER - Dec 18-19. Presented by Bay City Ballet. The Nutcracker will run for three shows only on Saturday, December 18 at 2 & 7pm and Sunday, December 19 at 2pm. You can’t escape the holiday spirit after seeing this holiday classic. Join Clara on her journey to save her beloved Nutcracker from the giant mice who battle toy soldiers. Then on to the palace of The Sugarplum Fairy and dancing candies and waltzing flowers. THE ANNIE MOSES BAND THIS GLORIOUS CHRISTMAS - Dec 10 at 8pm. The Annie Moses Band is leading the way in the pop-classical revolution sweeping the music world. The band blends jazz, classical and pop music together with organic and acoustic instruments arranged with modern pop production. A CLASSICAL CHRISTMAS WITH ARIOSO - Dec 17. Performed By Members of The Florida Orchestra Friday, December 17 at 8pm. Experience the holidays with a fine classical quartet from the Tampa Bay area. The show is interactive with the audience and includes some sing alongs to get you in the holiday spirit. ELVIS BIRTHDAY BASH - Jan 2 at 2pm. Celebrate the “King’s” birthday with a number of talented Elvis tribute artists as they shake, rattle and rolland provide a wonderful nostalgic afternoon of entertainment and fun. Enjoy complimentary birthday cake and photo opportunities after the show. TODD OLIVER’S DOGS GONE WILD TOUR - Jan 7 at 8pm. Have you ever met a talking dog, a real talking dog? Irving, Lucy and Elvis are making crowds across the country howl for more. Recent television appearances include Late Show with David Letterman, The Late Late Show with Craig Ferguson, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and the Today Show. The Largo Cultural Center, 105 Central Park Dr., Largo, 727-587-6793 www.largoarts.com
Florida’s Most Exciting Theatrical & Dining Experience! Up Coming
Mon.-Thur. 9am-7pm Fri.-Sat. 9am-8pm Sun. 10am-3pm Now thru Dec 25 Dinner & Show-$48.00 + Tax • Show Only-$36.95+Tax
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Jan 7 - Feb 2 7
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A SHOW PALACE CHRISTMAS - thru Dec 25 This year the Show Palace returns to New York City for a rollicking and heart-warming musical comedy. Set in 1954, BIG APPLE CHRISTMAS is the story of three homeless children who have the adventure of a lifetime one magical Christmas Eve. The show travels throughout the majestic city of New York making stops at Rockefeller Center, Central Park, Times Square, The Great White Way and a magical toy shop where the merchandise miraculously comes to life. Featuring appearances by Santa Claus (Monte Michelsen), a harried police detective, (David Valentine) a beautiful and gutsy NY times reporter (Elizabeth Claire Bailey), a troupe of Salvation Army Singers and a couple of bumbling gangsters (Joel Gennari and Michael Sterling Miller) and you have a beautifully wrapped gift for all audiences. HOW TO SUCCEED IN BUSINESS WITHOUT REALLY TRYING - Jan 7-Feb 27 Power, sex, ambition, greed... it’s just another day at the office. In the grand tradition of The Producers and A Funny Thing Happened on the Way to the Forum comes one of the most delightfully irreverent musicals of all time. A satire of big business and all it holds sacred, How To Succeed In Business Without Really Trying follows the rise of J. Pierrepont Finch, who uses a little handbook to climb the corporate ladder from lowly window washer to high-powered executive, tackling such familiar but potent dangers as the aggressively compliant company man, the boss’ whiny, nepotistic nephew, the office party, backstabbing coworkers, caffeine addiction and, of course, true love. With music by the composer of Guys and Dolls comes a score filled with classics “I Believe in You,” “Been a Long Day,” “Rosemary,” “The Company Way” and the rousing show stopper “Brotherhood of Man.” Show Palace, 16128 U.S. 19 N., Hudson. 1-888-655-7469, www.showpalace.net
Adapted by William Bryant; “Babes In Toyland” is a fantastical musical adventure for the whole family. See this holiday treat come alive on the St. Pete Little Theater stage, Dec. 3-19. Fanciful sets and costumes abound as favorite storybook characters entertain in this whimsical tale of holiday intrigue. Cheer on your favorite Mother Goose characters, and boo the villains, as evil Uncle Barnaby and his bumbling side kicks try to do away with Alan & Jane in order to collect their handsome inheritance. Join BoPeep, Tom Tom, Miss Muffet and others as they leave Mother Goose land in search of their friends and family in Toyland. An adventure with bears fighting giant spiders, ballet dancing Moth’s and toys that come to life in order to save the Toymaker and Christmas from ending forever. “Babes In Toyland” has captured the hearts of the young, and young at heart, for over 100 years, with wonderful songs, including “Never Mind BoPeep, We Will Find Your Sheep”, the touching “Toyland”, and the ultimate, “March Of The Toys” . A gorgeous feast for the eyes with a large cast of over 30, and enchanting choreography, this show promises to be the highlight of your holiday delights. A wonderful addition to the holiday programming this year is the addition of an ASL interpreted performance on Dec 19. The St. Petersburg Little Theater is located at 4025 31st Street South, St. Petersburg, FL 33712; 727-866-1973, www.splt.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
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NICE JEWISH GIRLS GONE BAD Schticking To The Man Since 2003 Nice Jewish Girls Gone Bad is a refreshing mix of comedy, music, spoken-word and burlesque, featuring the gals who learned to smoke at Hebrew School, got drunk at their Bat-Mitzvahs and would rather have more schtuppa than the chupah, featuring performers seen on Comedy Central, HBO and Late Night TV. These chicks boldly dare to deconstruct years of tradition, expectations and guilt in a fast-paced vaudeville extravaganza. It’s ain’t yo’ mama’s Fiddler! They will perform two shows in the Tampa Bay area and one in Orlando. Dec. 9 at NOVA 535 in St. Petrersburg, Dec. 10 at PLAY in Tampa, and Dec 11 at VAIN in Orlando. Must be over 21 to attend the shows. This rendition of mishagas on wheels was directed by Michael Baron (Signature Theater, DC) and features “Bei Mir Bist Du Schoen” gets remixed, Tumbalaika gets a makeover and we all find out what’s in Gefilte Fish...it’s “Fear Factor” for Jews though you don’t have to be Jewish to love these broads. Nice Jewish Girls Gone Bad features comedian Dana Eagle (Comedy Central) and booty shakin’ by Sister Schmaltz and hosted by queen of the quick change, The Goddess Perlman (Last Comic Standing). Nice Jewish Girls Gone Bad has been spreading their own brand of nuevo schmaltz across the land to sold-out crowds. Audiences can’t get enough of these wayward girls! Thurs Dec 9 - NOVA 535, 535 Dr. M. L. King Jr. Street N, St. Petersburg, FL; 727-821-6681. www.NOVA535.com 7pm Doors & Dinner Buffet - 8pm Show. Fri, Dec 10 - PLAY, 1701 E. 8th Ave., Tampa, FL, 813-443-0754 Sat, Dec 11 - VAIN, 22 S. Magnolia Ave., Orlando, FL 407-835-3590 www.nicejewishgirlsgonebad.com/newsite/
HOLIDAY FARE NOT SO SILENT NIGHT - Dec 9-11. This holiday cabaret featuring St. Pete native Becca McCoy, will perform in the Susan R. Hough Lobby of American Stage. The sixty-minute show features traditional carols, original music, old favorites in new arrangements by James Weaver, and the best of contemporary holiday music.A singer with a big sound, huge range and inimitable style, Beccaís expressive treatment of the holiday classics will put you in the Spirit of the Season. HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS - Dec 14. Alison Lea Bender is a young working actress living in NY City with a budding career and big dreams, who hails from St. Pete. She will sing a few songs about her dreams and favorite Broadway songs such as “How Can I Keep From Singing”, “Once Upon a Time” from Brooklyn, “Where is it Written” from Yentl, “Don’t Rain on My Parade” from Funny Girl, and “Another Hundred People” from Company mixed with some beautiful holiday classics “I’ll be Home for Christmas”, “Silver Bells”, and “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”. HOLIDAY HAM - Dec 17-23. Join Matthew McGee and Jayne Trinette for a little Holiday Ham. This hilarious and irreverent Christmas cabaret features the vocal styling of one of Florida’s favorite jazz vocalists, as well as the madcap antics of one of the Bay Area’s most popular funnymen. Get ready to laugh and Deck the Halls with a little Holiday Ham. American Stage Theatre Company is located at the Raymond James Theatre, 163 3rd Street North in the heart of downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. For tickets, please call the American Stage Box Office at (727) 823-PLAY (7529) www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
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rom the Latin term adventus, Advent means “the arrival.” For centuries, Advent has been a time of spiritual reflection for Christians in anticipation of the birth of Jesus Christ. Originally, Advent was a time when those who were going to convert to Christianity prepared themselves, spiritually, for their baptismal ceremony. It is believed that the period of Advent has been observed since about the 4th Century AD. In the early days of observing Advent, the period lasted from the feast day of Saint Martin (November 11) until Christmas Day (December 25). Similar to the springtime season of Lent, Advent once included a six-week long fast for believers. By the 6th Century, Advent no longer had a fasting ritual associated with it and the season was reduced from six to four weeks in length. Today, the season of Advent remains a time of devotional prayer and anticipation of Christmas.
such as Advent wreaths and Advent candles mark the days leading up to Christmas. Advent wreaths, a circle of evergreens symbolizing eternal life, are widely known symbols of the period. The four red candles represent the four Sundays of the Advent season and a fifth white candle in the wreath’s center is called the Christ candle. The Christ candle would be the last one to be lit and it would be lit on Christmas Day. However, when it comes to the season of Advent, quite possibly the most recognized of the season’s traditions is the Advent calendar. For many collectors, the chronological count down to Christmas Day comes in the form of an antique or vintage paper or felt Advent calendar. The Advent calendar is particularly popular with children, many of whom spend the greater part of the month of December patiently awaiting the arrival of Santa Claus.
Like many holiday collectibles, objects relating to Advent
According to published reports, the first known Advent Calendar was handmade in circa 1851. The German tradition of the Advent calendar began to spread from Europe, circa 1880, to North America. Typically made of printed images on paper or cardboard, Advent calendars typically boast 24 small numbered doors to be opened daily. Snow covered houses, holiday scenese, and winter wonderlands were common imagery used as the backdrop for the 24 miniature doors on Advent calendars. Each Advent calendar door is opened to reveal a holiday image, a Bible passage, a piece of candy or chocolate, or a small gift starting on December 1 and continuing until Christmas Eve (December 24). The “father” of the modern Advent calendar was German printer, Gerhard Lang. While working in his Munich printing office, Lang produced small colorful, religious images on paper and cardboard. Each image corresponded to one day in the month of December. Circa 1908, Lang produced the first Advent calendar that had doors that opened to reveal the image inside. In a similar manner, another German printing company, the Sankt Johannis Printing Company, produced religious calendars for the Advent season featuring Bible verses, instead of pictures, behind each door. During World War II when cardboard was rationed, the tradition of printing Advent calendars was temporarily suspended in Germany. Today, Advent calendars have evolved from lithograph printed images on cardboard to free-
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standing dollhouse style collectible calendars with hinged doors to hide small gifts or candy. Some of these contemporary holiday collectibles are made of pressed board, masonite, and even wood. Happy holidays! Ph.D. antiques appraiser, author, and award-winning
TV personality, Dr. Lori presents antique appraisal events nationwide and antiques themed cruises. As seen on The Tonight Show, watch Dr. Lori on the national TV morning show, Daytime on NBC WFLA 8 at 10 AM. For a schedule of Dr. Lori’s events and cruises, visit DrLoriV.com, Facebook.com/DoctorLori, or (888) 431-1010.
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FOOD & BEVERAGE
CAFÉ PONTE Iron Chef Competition Story and photos by Melissa Wolcott and Al Martino
I
ron Chef cooking face-offs have become all the rage in the last few years, and when Chef Chris Ponte from Café Ponte in Clearwater heard that Chef Constantinos “Taki” Laliotitis of the Matanzas Creek Winery in Santa Rosa, CA, was coming to Florida, he arranged for a cooking show-down between the two chefs. To make it a little more challenging — since
Sauvignon Blanc Lavender Poached Shrimp with citrus shaved heart of palm salad and green apple jelly with a lavender vapor.
Chef Chris Ponte from Cafe Ponte.
both chefs were up to the task — it was suggested they prepare three small plate dishes Chef Constantinos “Taki” Laliotitis using the same base ingreof the Matanzas Creek Winery dients, but add lavender into the mix. Lavender, as it turns out, is more than just a fragrant flower, it is an herb that lends a unique quality to a dish. Also the dishes were to be created to pair with different Matanzas wines — Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. hef Ponte studied at the Cordon Bleu in Paris, and graduated at the top of his class. He worked at the famed Taillevent in Paris for a while before returning to the states and apprenticing at Daniel Boulud’s NY restaurant. He opened his own intimate Café Ponte in Clearwater’s Icot Center in 2002, and has garnered a very strong follow-
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Seared Sea Scallops with potato brandade, tomato-date chutney, and a confit of zucchini and herbes de provence.
ing. His dishes are Contemporary American Cuisine with French, Asian, and Italian influences, with his Potato Encrusted Sea Bass and Filet Mignon particular favorites. Chef Laliotitis studied at the Ecole Supérieure de Cuisine Francaise in Paris and also studied different wine regions while traveling to understand the complexity of wine better. He has created meals at world-class restaurants in France, Italy, Japan and throughout California, including the legendary French Laundry in Napa. He is now the chef for Matanzas Creek Winery. The Matanzas Creek Winery was founded in 1977 in the Bennett Valley region of California’s wine country. Enveloped by three mountains, their location proved to be ideal for producing a long growing season that’s ideal for grapevines. The lavender used in the chef’s competition was grown on the Matanzas Creek property as well. If you visit their website (listed below), you will see gorgeous photos of their lavender fields, and the winery itself.
Lavender Tea-Smoked Duck Breast with crispy wontons of duck confit, with Hawaiian pomegranate sweet potato coulis.
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Herbes de Provence Grilled Shrimp served with smoked mashed potato, white wine, and little-neck clam nage.
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Chef Chris Ponte and Chef Constantinos “Taki” Laliotitis of the Matanzas Creek Winery enjoy an Iron Chef “showdown” at Cafe Ponte.
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his was a cooking competition too good to miss, as we patrons were to sample all the dishes and declare the winner. Since it was being held on Chef Ponte’s “turf”, to make it fair, the dishes were presented to us without telling us who created what. FIRST COURSE: Chef A. Coconut & Lavender Marinated Scallops with cilantro avocado puree, lavender pickled mango and cucumber. Chef B. Sauvignon Blanc Lavender Poached Shrimp with citrus shaved heart of palm salad and green apple jelly with a lavender vapor. SECOND COURSE: A. Herbes de Provence Grilled Shrimp served with smoked mashed potato, white wine, and littleneck clam nage. B. Seared Sea Scallops with potato brandade, tomato-date chutney, and a confit of zucchini and herbes de Provence. THIRD COURSE: A. Pan Roasted Maple Leaf Duck Breast served with lavender and truffle scented beet risotto, roasted golden beets, with a pomegranate and beet molasses. B. Lavender Tea-Smoked Duck Breast with crispy wontons of duck confit, with Hawaiian pomegranate sweet potato coulis. Dessert was not part of the competition, but was a delicious Lavender Panna Cotta with Pino Noir sauce and lavender chocolate created by Chef Ponte.
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hoosing the winner was a very tough call since everything was delectable, but Chef Chris Ponte finally took the prize (which, I believe, was bragging rights) with a slight edge. However, we patrons took the grand prize, which was a memorable dining event.
For more information about Café Ponte, call 727-538-5768, or visit www.cafeponte.com. For more information about Matanzas Creek Winery, visit www.matanzascreek.com, and make sure you take the virtual tour.
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Keep Mangos All Year Round in Your Pantry
and Crispy Pineapples. Crispy Green’s products can be found in the produce aisles of many supermarkets and specialty food stores and online at Crispy Green. www.crispygreen.com. ______________________________
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rispy Green’s new Crispy Mangoes keep mangoes in season all year round and ready to eat straight from your home pantry. Made of 100 percent high quality, freeze-dried mango slices and nothing else — no added sugar, preservatives (including sulfides), colors, fat, cholesterol or sodium. Crispy Mangoes are also vegan-friendly, peanut/tree nut-free, dairy-free and gluten-free and are kosher certified. These tasty, healthy freeze-dried mangoes are a delight with their intense, sweet Mango taste and a light, crispy crunch. Crispy Mangoes freeze-dried fruit snacks contain approximately one serving of fresh mangoes in a single serving (.36 ounce) bag and provide the same all natural fruit fiber and nutrients as fresh mangoes – without
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the messiness. The products’ long shelf life (36 months) and portability provide children and adults with a nutritious, go anywhere snack that can be enjoyed anytime. Available in moisture-free, convenient single serving size bags or the handy ‘Grab & Go’ 6PACKS, Crispy Mangoes provide the wholesomeness, natural goodness and fresh flavor of Mangoes in small, snack-sized portions. They are a healthy choice for kid’s lunches, hiking, school, work, or as in between snacks on the go. They can also be added to cereal, yogurt or ice cream. Crispy Fruit is also available in four other delicious flavors: Crispy Apples, Crispy Asian Pears, Crispy Bananas
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CLICK Your Way To A Tasty Protein Drink
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n Innovative, new drink, CLICK, combines high protein, espresso coffee and gourmet taste into one healthy, all-in-one drink. With only 120 calories, 7 grams of sugar, 15 grams of protein and a double shot of real espresso coffee, CLICK provides consumers with a great tasting protein drink that has a rich gourmet flavor without the high calories, sugar and fat. CLICK is the perfect all in one drink for people on the go. It can help you lose weight as a meal replacement, snack, or as a pre or post workout drink. Now available in two flavors — mocha and vanilla latte, CLICK is a powdered drink that comes in a 16 oz., 14 serving-canister. Consumers are loving CLICK’s versatility as it is one of the few protein drinks enjoyed hot or cold, or blended frappachino style. Fans also personalize their CLICK mixing with water or other liquids such as milk or soy milk as well a variety of flavored syrups. As an all-in-one beverage, CLICK’s suggested retail price is $24.99 $29.99. CLICK is available on Amazon.com, specialty retail stores and in GNC stores. For more information about CLICK, visit www.drinkclick.com
ig Cat Rescue is the world’s largest sanctuary for big cats who have been abused, abandoned, retired from performing acts, or saved from being slaughtered for fur coats. The sanctuary houses tigers, lions, leopards, cougars, bobcats, lynx, ocelots, servals, caracals and others — a total of 16 of the 35 species of wild cat, many of whom are threatened, endangered, or now extinct in the wild. At this home for rare and exotic cats, The narrow mission of Big Cat Rescue is to provide the best permanent home they can for these cats. The broader mission of the sanctuary is to reduce the number of cats that suffer the fate of abandonment and/or abuse and to encourage preservation of habitat and wildlife. People are urged to behave in a way that will support these goals by teaching people about the plight of the cats, both in the wild and in captivity. This is accomplished through guided tours, educational programs for young people, and by maintaining a website that is a great resource for information about exotic cats. Big Cat Rescue has built enclosures in a very natural habitat with foliage and shelter on a 45 acre site, and provides the best nutritional and medical care possible. They have conditioning and enrichment programs to provide for the cats physical and psychological well being. The sanctuary is supported entirely by donation. Big Cat Rescue is located at 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. Call 813-920-4130 for more information, or visit BigCatRescue.org.
unken Gardens is a botanical paradise in the midst of a bustling city. As St. Petersburg’s oldest living museum, this 100 year old garden is home to some of the oldest tropical plants in the region. Unwind as you stroll through meandering paths, lush with exotic plants from around the world. Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful demonstration gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers. Sunken Gardens provides garden tours, horticultural programs, special events, field trips, weddings, private and corporate rentals. If you enjoy Yoga, Pilates, or want to try Hoop Dancing, why not go to Sunken Gardens and exercise in a botanical, tropical paradise. Monday - Friday; 10:00am - 11:30am. Breathe in and relax. Tuesday 10am - 11am, Wednesday 9am - 10am. - Every Mon., Wed. and Fri. at 9:15 a.m. The class offers fitness and nutrition programs specifically designed to help moms get fit after childbirth and beyond. Parents bring their children in strollers as an integral part of the workout. Weekly play dates and monthly mom’s night out events provide valuable social interaction. www.strollerfitstpete.blogspot.com Tuesday and Thursday, 9:15am 10am. Sunken Gardens is located at 1825 4th Street N., St. Petersburg; 727-551-3100; www.stpete.org/sunken
A Botanical Experience Awaits You... • Discover the beauty of a 100 year old botanical paradise. • Explore cascading waterfalls, beautiful gardens, more than 50,000 tropical plants and flowers and the walk through butterfly encounter. • Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $8 Adults; $6 seniors 55 & up; $4 ages 2 to 11 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100 www.stpete.org
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Preserve Weedon Island Preserve
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’ve lived in the Riviera Bay area in St. Petersburg for 22 years, and am ashamed to say I never visited Weedon Island Preserve which is located right in my own neighborhood until recently. (I also lived in NY City for 35 years and never went to the top of the Empire State Building... still haven’t.) Anyway, I found I wasted many years not enjoying what the preserve has to offer. Weedon Island Preserve is an
ecologically important reserve with a highly informative and beautifully designed interpretive Cultural and Natural History Center. Their musuem exhibit focuses on Florida Native American history and artifacts. In the preserve visitors can enjoy 4.54 miles of hiking and nature trails that meander through mangrove forest and sea-
grass flats, where one can spot wading birds, manatee and various fish species. Almost two miles of the trails are handicap accessible with boardwalk or concrete. Every Saturday guided Hikes of Weedon Island are conducted by volunteers. (Pre-registration is required at (727) 4536506.) Guided canoe trips are also
offered through the Cultural Center. The Weedon Island Preserve Center’s hours of operation are Wednesday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. Government budget cuts are always threatening all the Pinellas preserves, so please take out some time soon to enjoy our natural wonders. For more information on Weedon Island, visit www.weedonislandcenter.org For more Weedon Island photos, visit AccentOnTampaBay.com, click on Event Photo Gallery, click on Tampa Bay Attractions.
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2nd ANNUAL HOLIDAY HOOPLA - Dec 11, 10-6 p.m., Beach Blvd. S., FREE ADMISSION. A portion of the proceeds from the event will benefit Operation Santa, The Gulfport Senior Center Foundation, and Get Rescued. Holiday Hoopla is a celebration of arts, crafts, foods, live music and roving holiday characters set in a waterfront atmosphere. Stroll the decorated streets filled with up to 200 talented exhibitors and unique shops. Many types of entertainment will perform during the Hoopla, from local school bands & Choral groups and local musicians to area performing arts groups. Santa and Mrs. Claus will be there, too, from 1-6pm, and will be available for photos with children adults and pets. Stay for the Boca Ciega Yacht Club Christmas Boat Parade at 6 p.m. on Gulfport Beach. The parade will begin by entering the Gulfport Municipal Marina at approximately 6:00pm. It will then travel past the Casino and William’s Pier in Gulfport and into the canals of Town Shores Condominiums. CAROLS BY CANDLELIGHT - Dec 18, 7 p.m. Gulfport Lions Club, 4630 Tifton Dr. S. Light snacks and caroling. FREE ADMISSION.
Serving: Gulfport Senior Center; Gulfport Casino; Gulfport Waterfront District; Stetson Univ. College of Law; Pasadena Shopping Center Palms of Pasadena Hospital; St. Pete Beach
JOE KOEHLER SENIOR FOLLIES HOLIDAY SHOW - Dec 22, 1 p.m., Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S. Don’t miss this entertaining show by local singers. Tickets are $7 and be purchased at the Gulfport Senior Center. 727-893-2237. For more information, www.gulfportma.com/ or call 727-322-5217.
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DECEMBER BLACK SWAN Drama Director: Darren Aronofsky; Starring: Natalie Portman, Vincent Cassel, Mila Kunis “Black Swan” follows the story of Nina (Portman), a ballerina in a New York City ballet company whose life, like all those in her profession, is completely consumed with dance. She lives with her retired ballerina mother Erica (Barbara Hershey) who zealously supports her daughter’s professional ambition. When artistic director Thomas Leroy (Vincent Cassel) decides to replace prima ballerina Beth MacIntyre (Winona Ryder) for the opening production of their new season, Swan Lake, Nina is his first choice. But Nina has competition: a new dancer, Lily (Kunis). As the two young dancers expand their rivalry into a twisted friendship, Nina begins to get more in touch with her dark side with a recklessness that threatens to destroy her.
I LOVE YOU PHILLIP MORRIS Comedy Director: Glenn Ficarra, John Requa; Starring: Jim Carrey, Ewan McGregor, Leslie Mann “I Love You Phillip Morris” is the improbable but true story of a spectacularly charismatic conman’s journey from small-town businessman to flamboyant white-collar criminal, who repeatedly finds himself in trouble with the law and on the lam, brilliantly escaping from the Texas prison system on four separate occasions - all in the name of love. Steven Russell (Jim Carrey) leads a seemingly average life until he has a severe car accident that leads him to the ultimate epiphany: he’s
gay and he’s going to live life to the fullest - even if he has to break the law to do it. Steven turns to cons and fraud to make ends meet and is eventually sent to the State Penitentiary where he meets the love of his life, a sensitive, soft-spoken man named Phillip Morris (Ewan McGregor). THE WARRIOR’S WAY Action Director: Sngmoo Lee ; Starring: Dong-gun Jang, Kate Bosworth, Geoffrey Rush “The Warrior’s Way,” a visually-stunning modern martial arts western starring Korean actor Dong-gun Jang who plays an Asian warrior assassin forced to hide in a small town in the American Badlands. Rounding out the ensemble cast are Kate Bosworth (“Superman www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
Returns”), Oscar-winner Geoffrey Rush (“Shine”), Danny Huston (“The Kingdom”), and Tony Cox (“The Hustle”). The fantasy action film was written and directed by newcomer Sngmoo Lee, and is being produced by Barrie M. Osborne (“The Lord of the Rings”), Jooick Lee (“Seven Swords”) and Michael Peyser (“Hackers”). THE CHRONICLES OF NARNIA: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader Fantasy Director: Michael Apted; Starring: Georgie Henley, Skandar Keynes, Ben Barnes This time around – Edmund and Lucy Pevensie, along with their pesky cousin Eustace Scrubb – find themselves swallowed into a painting and on to a fantastic Narnian ship headed for the very edges of the world. Joining forces once again with their royal friend Prince Caspian and the warrior mouse Reepicheep, they are whisked away on a mysterious mission to the Lone Islands, and beyond. On this bewitch-
ing voyage that will test their hearts and spirits, the trio will face magical Dufflepuds, sinister slave traders, roaring dragons and enchanted merfolk. THE COMPANY MEN Drama Director: John Wells; Starring: Ben Affleck, Chris Cooper, Kevin Costner Bobby Walker (Ben Affleck) is living the American dream: great job, beautiful family, shiny Porsche in the garage. When corporate downsizing leaves him and co-workers Phil Woodward (Chris Cooper) and Gene McClary (Tommy Lee Jones) jobless, the three men are forced to re-define their lives as men, husbands, and fathers. Bobby soon finds himself enduring enthusiastic life coaching, a job building houses for his brother-inlaw (Kevin Costner) which does not play to his executive skill set, and perhaps the realization that there is more
THE TEMPEST Genre: Drama, Fantasy Director: Julie Taymor; Starring: Helen Mirren, Russell Brand, Reeve Carney MPAA Rating: PG-13 In her big-screen adaptation of Shakespeare’s mystical thriller “The Tempest,” Academy Award–nominated Julie Taymor (“Across the Universe,” “Frida,” “Titus”) brings an original dynamic to the story by changing the gender of the sorcerer Prospero into the sorceress Prospera, portrayed by Oscar winner Helen Mirren (“The Queen”). Prospera’s journey spirals through vengeance to forgiveness as she reigns over a magical island, cares for her young daughter, Miranda, and
to life than chasing the bigger, better deal. With humor, pathos, and keen observation, writer-director John Wells introduces us to the new realities of American life.
unleashes her powers against shipwrecked enemies in this exciting, masterly mix of romance, tragicomedy and the supernatural.
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MOVIES (con’t) THE TOURIST Genre: Thriller Director: Florian Henckel von Donnersmarck; Starring: Johnny
Depp, Angelina Jolie, Paul Bettany MPAA Rating: PG-13 “The Tourist” revolves around Frank (Depp), an American tourist visiting Italy to mend a broken heart. Elise (Jolie) is an extraordinary woman who delib-
erately crosses his path. Against the breathtaking backdrop of Venice, Frank pursues a potential romance but soon finds himself the pursued as he and Elise are caught in a whirlwind of intrigue and danger. RABBIT HOLE Genre: Drama Director: John Cameron Mitchell; Starring: Nicole Kidman, Aaron Eckhart, Dianne Wiest MPAA Rating: PG-13 Becca and Howie Corbett (Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart) are returning to their everyday existence in the wake of a shocking, sudden loss. Just eight months ago, they were a happy suburban family with everything they wanted. Now, they are caught in a maze of memory, longing, guilt, recrimination, sarcasm and tightly controlled rage from which they cannot escape.
While Becca finds pain in the familiar, Howie finds comfort. The shifts come in abrupt, unforeseen moments. Yet, as off track as they are, the couple keeps trying to find their way back to a life that still holds the potential for beauty, laughter and happiness.
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TRON: LEGACY Genre: Action, Adventure, Sci-Fi Director: Joseph Kosinski; Starring: Jeff Bridges, Garrett Hedlund, Olivia Wilde MPAA Rating: PG “TRON: Legacy” is a 3D high-tech adventure set in a digital world that’s unlike anything ever captured on the big screen. Sam Flynn (Garrett Hedlund), a rebellious 27-year-old, is haunted by the mysterious disappearance of his father Kevin Flynn (Jeff Bridges), a man once known as the world’s leading video-game developer. When Sam investigates a strange signal sent from the old Flynn’s Arcade—a signal that could only come from his father—he finds himself pulled into a digital world where Kevin has been trapped for 20 years. With the help of the fearless warrior Quorra (Olivia Wilde), father and son embark on a lifewww.AccentOnTampaBay.com
and-death journey across a visuallystunning cyber universe—a universe created by Kevin himself that has become far more advanced with neverbefore imagined vehicles, weapons, landscapes and a ruthless villain who will stop at nothing to prevent their escape. LITTLE FOCKERS Genre: Comedy Director: Paul Weitz; Starring: Robert De Niro, Ben Stiller, Owen Wilson MPAA Rating: PG-13 The test of wills between Jack Byrnes (Robert De Niro) and Greg Focker (Ben Stiller) escalates to new heights of comedy in the third installment of the blockbuster series -- “Little Fockers.” It has taken 10 years, two little Fockers with wife Pam (Polo) and countless hurdles for Greg to finally get “in” with his tightly wound father-in-law, Jack. After the cash-strapped dad takes a job moonlighting for a drug company, however, Jack’s suspicions about his favorite male nurse come roaring back. When Greg and Pam’s entire clan -including Pam’s lovelorn ex, Kevin (Owen Wilson) -- descends for the twins’ birthday party, Greg must prove to the skeptical Jack that he’s fully capable as the man of the house.
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ORLANDO HOLIDAYS ICE! AT GAYLORD PALMS thru Jan. 2 Who says the holidays in Florida are all about palm trees and sunshine?
GRINCHMAS AT UNIVERSAL’S ISLANDS OF ADVENTURE thru Jan. 1 This annual holiday celebration is based on the Dr. Seuss tale and Universal Pictures’ and Imagine Entertainment’s Academy Award-winning blockbuster hit, “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure is transformed into a bah-humbug haven by the Grinch. The entire Seussianthemed island is colorfully decorated for the season, and guests are invited to meet the Grinch in his lair, which is
Visitors should prepare for the coolest winter on record as Gaylord Palms Resort presents ICE! An instant dose of winter, this spectacle is made from nearly 2 million pounds (907,185 kilograms) of ice. Admission: Varies by weekday and weekend. 407-5862000. www.gaylordhotels.com. LEU’S HOLIDAY HOUSE thru Jan. 7 The beautifully restored late 19th century Leu House Museum is decked out for the holidays by some of Orlando’s best interior designers. Guests can stroll along the garden’s meandering paths shaded by ancient oaks, forests of camellias and giant camphor trees. Admission: Included in regular admission. 407-246-2620 www.leugardens.org. MACY’S HOLIDAY PARADE AT UNIVERSAL STUDIOS thru Jan. 1 The world’s most famous parade has become a holiday experience for park guests at Universal Studios, featuring some of the most popular balloons and floats from the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The excitement and pageantry of the parade, complete with a festive tree lighting ceremony by Santa Claus himself, is exhibited each day of the holiday season through the New Year. Admission: Included in regular park admission. 407-363-8000. www.universalorlando.com.
night. Admission: Included in regular park admission. 407-363-2259. www.SeaWorld.com. NEW YEAR’S EVE 2010 AT UNIVERSAL CITYWALK - Dec. 31 Universal CityWalk, a 30-acre (121,406-square-meter) entertainment complex with themed restaurants, nightclubs and shops, hosts one of Orlando’s hottest New Year’s Eve parties. The evening features live performances by national acts, an expansive gourmet buffet, a champagne toast and live entertainment at its nightclubs, including the groove, an electrifying dance club; CityJazz, a hip jazz venue; Jimmy Buffett’s Magaritaville and others. Call for admission price 407-363-8000 or visit www.universalorlando.com. ARABIAN NIGHTS HOLIDAY SHOW - The Holiday Show finds Princess Scheherazade in need of a distraction while her husband, Prince Khalid is off searching for her perfect Holiday gift. The faithful genie Hocus Pocus invites Santa Claus to come distract Scheherazade from missing her husband with gifts and good cheer. The show includes a 3-course dinner. 3081 Arabian Nights Blvd., Kissimmee; 407239-9223; www.Arabiannights.com
outfitted with authentic movie props and gadgets. Grinch fans enjoy a live, musical stage show that re-tells the world-famous story of the grumpy Grinch. Admission: Included in regular park admission. 407-363-8000. www.universalorlando.com. NEW YEAR’S EVE AT SEAWORLD ORLANDO - Dec. 31 SeaWorld Orlando is throwing a big New Year’s Eve party complete with live music and fireworks. Dance to the beat of a live DJ as the countdown to 2011 begins at The Waterfront, where guests can also enjoy shopping, dining and entertainment venues. At the stroke of midnight, witness the Orlando sky radiate during a brilliant fireworks show that will light up the
ALBIN POLASEK MUSEUM & SCULPTURE GARDENS PRESENTS “YONETANI AT THE POLASEK: CHAMBER CONCERT SERIES” - Jan. 16 and March 20. The 6th annual concert music series
features Ayako Yonetani, internationally acclaimed violin and viola artist, accompanied by Dr. Kiminobu Sugaya and guest instrumentalists. Performances are from 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. in the salon of the Polasek residence. 407-647-6294; www.polasek.org. ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER PRESENTS “WORLD OF MECHANICAL MUSIC” thru Jan. 9. Features hands-on lessons in the mechanical science of sound, instrumentation and hearing. The exhibit also includes a representation of the Victorian era, where visitors experience the live musical entertainment of the time period. 407-514-2000; www.osc.org. TITANIC THE EXPERIENCE HAS CREATED OF THE TITANIC DINNER EVENT, a dinner show featuring 10 actors celebrating the most famous ship in history. The new show runs on Friday and Saturday nights. The menu features high quality, prime foods that are market fresh and very similar to menu items from Titanic. www.TitanictheExperience.com
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ENZIAN PRESENTS “DRESS TO KILL: A JAMES BOND NEW YEAR’S PARTY” Dec. 31 at 8 p.m. Themed to the James Bond film series, the celebration features Bond-themed drink specials, a live DJ and an outdoor screening of the Academy Award-winning movie, “Thunderball.” 407-6291088; www.enzian.org.
Bok Tower Gardens offers visitors Florida’s most abundant opportunities for aesthetic, cultural and personal enrichment. The lush landscapes of the gardens, the majesty and music of the Singing Tower with its 60-bell carillon and the splendor of create an experience that inspires all who visit.
One of Central Florida’s favorite holiday events, designers will deck the halls of the 20-room, 1930s Pinewood Estate with elegant and elaborate decorations.
www.boktowergardens.org
Polly Tetrault is a self-taught artist whose pastel and oil paintings express the beauty in nature that is often taken for granted.This exhibit can be found in the Visitor Center everyday from 9 a.m-5 p.m. . Janet King’s watercolors capture the essence of Pinewood Estate, one of the finest examples of Mediterranean-style architecture.† The awardwinning Sebring artist and instructor is inspired by the mood created by the light when painting plein air, and enjoys the spontaneity of watercolor. She is a member of the prestigious Florida Watercolor Society. EDWARD BOK MEMORIAL CAROLLON CONCERTS - Jan 9, 13:30. Commemorate the life of Gardens’ founder Edward W. Bok who died January 9, 1930, less than a year after his Singing Tower was dedicated. Concerts at 1 & 3 p.m. Free with admission. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. BIRTHDAY CARILLON CONCERTS Jan 17. Featuring music of hope, inspiration and peace honoring Dr. King; humanitarian and civil rights activist who, like Gardensí founder Edward Bok, championed the cause of unity among all people. Concerts at 1 & 3 p.m. Free with admission. MOONLIGHT CARILLON CONCERT - Jan 18, Feb 17, Mar 18, Apr 15. Experience Bok Tower Gardens in a different light during the 2011 Moonlight Carillon Concert series. Itís a unique opportunity to visit the Gardens after normal operating hours for half-price admission and have a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Cafe which will remain open until the hour-long concert begins. PINEWOOD CONCERT SERIES: DUO TURGEON,PIANO - Jan 23. Hailed by critics as one of the most exciting piano duos of our time, Drs. Edward Turgeon and Ann Louise-Turgeon play four hands on one piano. Duo Turgeon has made many recordings, television appearances and international performances. Visit www.boktowergardens.org for more information. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY AT THE MAGIC KINGDOM Larger-than-life gingerbread men, giant toy soldiers and Florida “snowflakes” combine to create the perfect holiday setting on select magical evenings through Dec. 19, 2010, during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom. CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL AT EPCOT NOV. 26.DEC. 30 Whoopi Goldberg, Susan Lucci, Brad Garrett, and Isabella Rossellini are all part of a lineup of 12 celebrity narrators who retell the joyous story of Christmas during the Candlelight Processional at Epcot Nov. 26-Dec. 30, 2010. CASTLE DREAM LIGHTS When daylight has passed during the holiday season, Magic Kingdom guests can behold a breathtaking transformation during the Castle Dream Lights ceremony. Each evening through Jan. 3, Cinderella and favorite characters decked out in holiday garb take to the stage and magically transform Cinderella Castle into an ice palace aglow with 200,000 white lights – a perfect centerpiece to a park all decked out with wreaths, bows, garland and towering Christmas trees.
SPECTACLE OF DANCING LIGHTS Millions of brilliant bulbs blanket the backlot with dancing lights and animated displays synchronized to high-energy holiday tunes at Disney’s Hollywood Studios through Jan. 3, 2011. HOLIDAYS AROUND THE WORLD Throughout World Showcase, storytellers share customs and lore from their heritage from Nov. 26-Dec. 30. Strolling around the promenade during the Holidays Around the World celebration may put you face-to-face with the goodhearted witch La Befana, known in Italy for filling children’s shoes with treats, or the jolly gift-bearer Father Christmas in the United Kingdom. There are meet and greets with Santa and Mrs. Claus in The American Adventure, plus other legendary icons who share messages of goodwill. The celebrations of Kwanzaa and Hanukkah are showcased as well.
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FESTIVAL OF THE SEASONS Santa Claus is coming to town – to Downtown Disney, that is – and he’ll be meeting kids, listening to wishes and posing for pictures daily from Nov. 19 through Dec. 24 at Santa’s Chalet.
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here is NO good pizza in Florida.” That has been my mantra ever since I moved here 30 years ago. OK, so I’m a New York Pizza-Elitist Snob. On just about every street corner in NYC you can find pretty good to fabulous pizza. In Florida, we have been brain— or stomach—washed to think all the chains we rely on is real pizza. Is the problem the water as some say? Is it the humidity? The ovens? I have succumbed too, to thinking “hey, this isn’t bad,” wondering if my memory has taken on an unrealistically distorted view of my pizza of yore.
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am thrilled to announce that REAL PIZZA has arrived in Florida! It can be found at the new Via Napoli restaurant in the Italy pavilion in Epcot Center at Disney World. This charming restaurant specializes in traditional Neapolitan pizzas — bianca, quattro stagioni, piccante, ortolano and margherita, created under the talented eye of famed executive chef Charlie Restivo (former Head Pizzaiolo at Naples 45 in NYC.)
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nowing the problems Florida seems to have with pizza (many have tried and failed) Restivo isn’t taking any chances. He knows that water is key, so Via Napoli actually imports water from up north that is similar to the water of Naples, Italy. Caputo flour and the type of yeast used make the perfect low-gluten dough. The pies are made using San Marzano tomatoes, Caputo flour, handmade fresh mozzarella, Parma Cotto, and crumbled sausage. Then there are the very unique wood-burning ovens — three of them. The kitchen is open viewing to the patrons and the ovens are an added attraction your dining experience. They are named after the three active volcanoes in Italy – Mount Etna, Mount Vesuvius and Stromboli. Each oven has a different (defiant!) face representing a mythological god, and the god’s mouth is the flaming oven opening. Our group enjoyed watching pizza being created and cooked (at 800° for two minutes) in “Stromboli” while sipping the best Sangria I’ve ever had — a perfect blend of Italian wine and fresh fruit. We also tried their nonalcoholic Strawberry Fruit Cooler, which was deliciously refreshing.
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ia Napoli is a stand-alone building next to the Tutto Italia Ristorante. The architecture is an attractive mix of Italian styles. Inside, the atmosphere is friendly with cheerful, bustling waiters. They have different size tables with interior and exterior seating, including a long table in the center of the restaurant to accommodate a large group. High ceilings and plenty of windows create a warm ambiance.
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ia Napoli is not just about pizza, they have a menu selection including appetizers, salads, pastas, desserts, and a special children’s menu as well. We ordered several dishes for tasting among the group, and everything was pretty outstanding. The Arancini (fried risotto Balls filled with mozzarella and meat ragu) is certain to become a signature appetizer at Via Napoli. A must for table sharing is the Fritto Misto, an assortment of fried seasonal
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vegetables, fish, and cheese, served with a Pomodoro piccante sauce. For pasta, we chose their tasty Candele — candle-stick pasta, with sausage ragu, polpettine, mozzarella and ricotta. A most elegant dish was the Tortino di Melanzane, which is eggplant prepared with tomato sauce, parmesan and mozzarella and served with spaghetti torta. The eggplant was sliced very thin and cooked to perfection. My husband, who usually eschews eggplant, went back for seconds. hen came the “evento altamente anticipato” — the pizza! The pizza sizes come in individual, large, and “1/2 meter” for sharing. We picked out a 1/2 meter Margherita (tomato, mozzarella, basil) which had a very thin crispy crust and just about the best pizza cheese I’ve ever had.
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ut wait, there’s more. It’s hard to believe we left any room for dessert, but somehow we did. We sampled two of the dessert offerings. The Coppa di Brutti Ma Buoni (translation: “ugly but good”) is a misnomer. It isn’t the least bit ugly, and it is better than good. It’s an amarena cherry and vanilla gelato sundae with real whipped cream. Our second dessert was the Zeppole de Caterina, which is ricotta cheese fritters served with whipped cream and chocolate sauce. The fritters are wonderfully light and moist, with a thin yet crispy crust. We topped our dessert off with a perfectly blended cappuccino.
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guess my aging brain was not distorted after all — I DO know good pizza when I find it — and it’s at Via Napoli. Dare I say it’s probably even better than NYC’s? c
For more information on Via Napoli please visit www.disneyworld.disney.go.com/dining/via-napoli/
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Unique and Whimsical Gift Ideas From
BAILEY DOESN’T BARK
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his holiday season, Bailey Doesn’t Bark offers unique gifts for those on your list who love originality, thought and whimsy. Designer, Re Jin Lee, creates handmade, simply unique, witty designs to be used in everyday life. Exclusively for the holidays, Bailey Doesn’t Bark has combined its handmade tableware, home accents, jewelry and locally produced paper goods, with hand selected gourmet edibles. Each gift set can be customized online with multiple product design options and is sent ready to gift - beautifully wrapped with a note card included. All Bailey Doesn’t Bark products are made in the U.S. by founder Re Jin Lee, or an independent and/or eco-friendly partner and are packaged in-house using recycled, reusable or biodegradable materials. All products, including the Four Seasons Cups pictured here, are available at www.baileydoesntbark.com.
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Gift Your Friends with Clean Air Candles,
GOODLIGHT
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ith the trend in healthy eating grabbing so much attention, we’re overlooking something just as important: healthy breathing. That’s why GoodLight’s founders Jon and David began making palm wax candles: to provide a healthier alternative to the paraffin candles that pollute restaurants everywhere. Whenever you sit down to a candlelit dinner, whether it’s at home or out, benzene and toluene are being served as toxic side dishes. Studies have linked these chemicals and others found in paraffin candle fumes to cancer and birth defects. GoodLight’s palm wax, on the other hand, emits no toxins. Refined from palm fruit, a non-GMO rapidly renewable resource, palm wax burns clean without the nasty black soot common with other candles. GoodLight costs far less than any soy or beeswax candle. Brighten your holiday gatherings with GoodLight and breathe easy. www.naturalcandles.com
FOR THE GAMERS ON YOUR LIST STARCRAFT II: WINGS OF LIBERTY by Blizzard Entertainment Platform: Windows Vista / XP, Mac OS X / Rated: Teen
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EARBUD YO-YO A Simple Solution to Tangled Earbuds
ontinue the epic saga of the Protoss, Terran, and Zerg. These three distinct and powerful races will clash once again in the fast-paced real-time strategy sequel to the original, StarCraft. Legions of veteran, upgraded, and new unit types will do battle across the galaxy, as each faction struggles for survival. Featuring a single-player campaign that picks up where StarCraft: Brood War left off, StarCraft II presents a cast of new heroes and familiar faces in a sci-fi story filled with adventure and intrigue. In addition, Blizzard offers online play through Battle.net with several enhancements and features to make StarCraft II even better. www.blizzard.com
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etting frustrated with the tangled mess you pull out of your pocket when you want to use your earbuds? There’s a solution for that — the Earbud Yo-Yo. Now you can keep your earbuds organized all the time. Best of all, the Earbud Yo-Yo is so light it can stay attached to your earbuds all the time. The Earbud Yo-Yo is an ear bud holder, organizer, and a fashionable ear bud accessory. The unique design can easily manage earbud cords for nearly every portable audio device you own. And it’s easy to use. You just wrap the cord around it like a regular yo-yo. The unique gripper keeps the cord from unraveling. You can customize the length of your earbuds easily. Simply unwrap your earbuds to your desired length, and the Earbud Yo-Yo will keep the remaining cord stored and out of your way. They come in a wide range of bright colors and designs. Check them out at www.earbudyoyo.com
WORLD OF WARCRAFT: CATACLYSM by Blizzard Entertainment Platform: Windows Vista / XP, Mac OS X Intel / Rated: Teen An ancient evil lies dormant within Deepholm, the domain of earth in the Elemental Plane. Hidden away in a secluded sanctuary, the corrupted Dragon Aspect Deathwing has waited, recovering from the wounds of his last battle against Azeroth and biding his time until he can reforge the world in molten fire. Soon, Deathwing the Destroyer will return to Azeroth, and his eruption from Deepholm will sunder the world, leaving a festering wound across the continents. As the Horde and Alliance race to the epicenter of the cataclysm, the kingdoms of Azeroth will witness seismic shifts in power, the kindling of a war of the elements, and the emergence of unlikely heroes who will rise up to protect their scarred and broken world from utter devastation. Key Game Features include: two new playable races, level cap increased to 85, new high-level zones, unearth valuable artifacts and earn unique rewards, Explore Kalimdor and the Eastern Kingdoms like never before. www.blizzard.com
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Lookin’ Good.... Necklace Necessities Solving Fashion Dilemmas One Necklace at a Time
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hen faced with a chain that is too short and tight, don’t throw it out. With the Necklace Necessities Ensemble the accessory prone can take their necklace chains to new lengths. The ensemble includes a trio of necklace extenders—one adjustable silvertone extender, one adjustable goldtone extender (both of which extend from 3.5-6 inches), and one non-adjustable 4-inch “faux” pearl extender. It also comes with a 12 piece trial package of Necessities Secure Strips and comes in a fun purse package that makes it the perfect gift. The Necessities Secure Strips are an innovative solution to those pesky necklace clasps that always want to be the center of attention at the front of one’s outfit. Secure Strips are small, clear, hypoallergenic adhesives that secure the necklace extenders and clasps in place at the back of the neck. Wearers won’t even notice they’ve got the adhesive on. Necklace Necessities also have created a signature line of necklaces as well. For more information, visit www.necklacenecessities.com
Violet Love Designer Headbands
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f you love headbands (because they are definitely cool!) but hate the headaches that follow after you’ve been wearing them awhile, you have to check out the headbands created by Rebecca Michaels for Violet Love. They come in a variety of fashion forward prints (plain colors too) and are made of a luxuriously soft brushed poly/lycra fabric. The headband is cleverly designed to be worn opened wide, folded under or scrunched and very narrow without any bulk. It continues to grow in popularity because of its superior wicking, its ability to stay put, and headache-free comfort. Rebecca has grown her Violet Love line to include legwear, loungewear and scarves. Violet Love’s popular tagline is “Love me, wear me, don’t dare to share me”. For more information, visit www.violetloveheadbands.com
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LUSH Says Joy To The World
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ick up one of Lush’s adorable tins for the bath lover in your life and you’ll be guaranteed a giggle and perhaps even a little happy dance. This gorgeous tin is packed full of nine totally different Bath Bombs - each with it’s own distinctive personality! For example, experience Big Blue (drop a Big Blue in your tub and bring a private ocean to your bathroom); Butterball (gorgeous vanilla musk bomb lulls your skin into soft submission); Avobath (zingy lemongrass adds pep and fresh avocado for happy skin) and 6 more great soaks. Lush has Christmas all wrapped up in a beautiful reindeer-embossed box. Four lovely bath time treats are nestled inside; cheery mandarin soap, bubbles for the big night, a spicy soaker, and a real Fizzbanger for a celebratory explosion like no other. In fact, Lush’s products are wrapped by hand with recyclable and reusable paper and biodegradable fill for the holidays and always. For more information, visit www.lushusa.com
Put The Fountain of Youth in Your Own Stocking with FROWNIES
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very woman wants Beautiful Eyes and Frownies has just the package. Frownies introduces a new eye gel used to stop the signs of aging on the under eye and eye lid area made of all natural cactus collagen and bear berry. You can revive your skin cells with immune boosting, DNA protecting products that bring back youthful skin tone. With one 30 minute treatment 100% of women testing Frownies eye gels saw a reduction in the appearance of fine lines and dark circles. The Eye Gels promote beauty by boosting micro-circulation and fighting free radical damage. The immune building properties help protect the DNA and firm skin, reduce fine lines and normalize skin coloration. Frownies have become a celebrity favorite due to their natural ingredients and effective results. Frownies products are made with natural ingredients that are safe and protect and support your skin. Their proprietary ingredient blend includes aloe, oats, cactus collagen, bear berries, lavender and rose essential oils, combined with antioxidant vitamins, and plant-based ingredients. Frownies products do not contain known carcinogens, pollutants or petroleum products that mimic estrogen and cause hormonal imbalances. Visit www.frownies.com for more information. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
GEAR TIE A New Twist On Organizing Your Gear by Melissa Wolcott
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n unassuming little package of twist ties may be just the best thing you will find in your stocking this Christmas. (Well, maybe not the “best” thing — if you’re looking for a ring, but certainly one of the most practical.) When I visited the Gear Tie website, they had me at “Gear Tie can be used as an iPhone stand.” This would be one of the less usual uses of this new take on the old twist tie, which comes in many colors and sizes — from 3” to 32”. Gear Ties are strong rubber ties with a wire running through that holds whatever shape you twist it into, and can be reused over and over again. The rubber surface makes it safe from scratching any of your gear. The most obvious uses for the ties are bundling wires from small electronic gear up to large hoses. They can be used indoors and outdoors in all kinds of weather. Price ranges from $4.99 for a 4-pack of 3” ties to $6.99 for a 2-pack of 32” ties. A visit to Gear Tie’s website will show you some other uses for the ties, but I’m sure you will quickly come up with some of your own. For more information and where to buy, visit www.geartie.com/
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hapeways makes it easy for anyone to create oneof-a-kind gifts including stainless steal cufflinks that will complete any suit, or an iPod Display Tray for the tech savvy enthusiast. Unique table ornaments including Napkin Ring Poems and personalized Glass Labels offer dinner guests a special memento to remember the event. Shapeways has a large choice of unusual gifts, here a just a few: Napkin Ring Poems - Create unique table ornaments that you can personalize for any occasion or any guest, with any message using the Shapeways Ringpoem Creator. Ringpoems are most commonly used as napkin rings, but they can also be used to embellish a bottle of wine, flower bouquets and more. Premium plastic is available in a variety of colors. Glass Labels - Entertain with delicate Glass Labels while adding another
layer of decoration to your beautifully decorated table settings. Each charm features the option to be personalized with the names of all the guests, for seating at the dinner table. Premium plastic available in a variety of colors. Lightpoem Candle Holders - Sculpt your own words into a unique candle holder with the Shapeways Lightpoem Creator. Light up the dinner table by capturing a meaningful poem or favorite holiday saying. Available in premium plastic in a variety of colors. Time Keeper - A clock frozen in time, the Time Keeper commemorates a birth date, an anniversary, or any other significant moment in your life, in history, or the future. It will keep that time with perfect accuracy, forever. You set the date and time. You can also include a short message below the date. Available in Stainless Steal, Gold Plated and Antique Bronze finishes. For more information, and to order these special items, visit www.shapeways.com
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Gifts For Our 4-Legged Friends Tatutina’s Wooden Treat Box for Doggies
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so maybe the dog won’t care what his treats are housed in, but we care! Tatutina Dog Treat Boxes are fun, and come in 3 colorful designs. The boxes are made of durable wood, painted in bright colors (all non-toxic paints) so they are great for the whole family, including the furry one. An easy lid comes right off, making it easy for anyone to grab a treat and go. Dimension on the outside is 7” x 4.5” x 9”. Tatutina products are designed by a mother-daughter company located in Massachusetts who’s mission is to create unique products that reflect a happy and fun lifestyle. Everything they create is inspired by their family, homes and original art. All Tatutina products are painted with non-toxic, lead free paints. www.Tatutina.com
Dog is Good’s Exclusive Dog-Only Water Bottle
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og is Good focuses on clever designs and a wide range of products at affordable prices. The DIG core line includes many simple, casual style fashion as well as creative dog products. The Dog Water Bottle offers pets refreshing water during fun outdoor activities. It’s BPA-free, made of stainless steel, and holds up to 24 ounces of water. The bottle is convenient and perfect for traveling. Dog is Good was launched by Gila Kurtz, a professional dog trainer, and J. Nichole Smith, a professional pet photographer/designer, both of whom wanted a stylish way to capture and share “Dogvergnügen.” Dogvergnügen is defined as “The unique joy you feel in the presence of Dog.” DIG founders created the word and definition to give a name to the happiness we all feel when we’re with our dog. www.dogisgood.com
Power Paws Practical Fashion for Dogs
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oodrow Wear founder Lorraine Walston created Power Paws when her 14 year old dog developed canine hip dysplasia and canine arthritis and had difficulty standing and walking on hardwood and tile floors. Power Paws are a traction solution designed to help with both grip and mobility. Power Paws make movement easier, increasing your pet’s quality of life. They are also a fun, fashion accessory, a solution to preventing nail marks on hardwood floors, and a solution for protecting wounds and foot injuries. They also protect paws from snow, ice and salt in the winter (can be sprayed with waterproof spray) and in summer, they protect from burns and extreme heat of pavement and beaches. They come in a growing collection of designs and holiday themes, and 8 different sizes. For more information, visit www.woodrowwear.com
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Tarpon Springs Events THE ANNUAL VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS TOUR AT THE SAFFORD HOUSE MUSEUM Dec 8-12. Enjoy an open house at the beautiful 1883 Safford House with Victorian carolers, complimentary refreshments, holiday gift shop, live music, free digital photos with a Victorian Santa. THE BALTIMORE CONSORT - Dec 15. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. The Baltimore Consort has delighted audiences on both sides of the Atlantic and earned a place on Billboard Magazine’s top-ten list. The Baltimore Consort’s arrangements of early music from England, Scotland, France, Italy, and Spain speak to the heart as well as the mind, and their love for the early music of English/Scottish heritage has led them to delve into the rich trove of traditional balladry and dance tunes preserved in the Appalachian mountains and Nova Scotia. The group performs on lute, flute, fife, recorder, crumhorn, cittern, viol, guitar and vocals. FLORIDA LYRIC OPERA PRESENTS AMAHL AND THE NIGHT VISITORS - Dec 18-19. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center. The tender, heartwarming story of Amahl and the Night
Visitors is one of the most popular American operas. It is performed internationally every Christmas season and remains one of the most frequently performed operas of the 20th century. Expressly written for television it premiered on NBC on Christmas Eve, 1951 and was repeated thereafter for sixteen Christmas seasons. For many it became an annual tradition to see this magical musical production featuring the poor crippled shepherd boy, his devoted mother and the knock on the door which changed their lives forever. Amahl and the Night Visitors was written by the Italian composer Gian Carlo Menotti who was inspired by the famous painting “The Adoration of the Magi.” He wrote into it some of the magical sounds he remembered from his youth during St. Nicholas’s festive visits to his mountain village in Italy where he was born. at the Heritage Museum. George Soffos is considered by many to be the best bouzouki player born outside of Greece. His repertoire includes folk genres such as rembetika and nisiotika, as well as popular and classical Greek works. Since he was 16, he has entertained audiences in Greek night clubs and other venues throughout the world and accompanied many top vocalists from Greece. Classes will be organized into beginning and advanced sections. Free. For more information, 727-942-5605, www.tarponarts.org
stay@laketarponresort.com
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Visit Historic Tarpon Springs
12 W Orange St., Tarpon Springs FL 34689
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the original Creations™ The *COTTON* Lady D.I.Y Products
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U. U. Church
Auto. Home. Business amd Life 24 Hour Service
of Tarpon Springs “The Uncommon Denomination”
Services Sundays 10:30 AM
Home of the Geo. Inness Jr. Paintings
230 Grand Blvd., Tarpon Springs, Fl. 34689 727-937-4682 www.uutarpon.org www.LiquorsofTarpon.com
Peter G. Gillis Agency, Inc Owner Allstate Insurance Company 536 Tarpon Ave. Ste. 1B Tarpon Springs. FL 34689 Phone 727-942-7400 Toll Free 888-942-7400 Email petergillis@allstate.com
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Great Food
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Kenny Rogers has released his first-ever live Christmas recording. Featuring such favorites as “Silent Night,” “Mary, Did You Know,” “My Favorite Things,” “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!,” “Away In A Manger / O Holy Night,” “O Come All Ye Faithful,” “We Three Kings/The Little Drummer Boy,” “‘Til The Season Comes Around Again, and “The Chosen One/Joy To The World,” the album truly captures the essence of his live holiday performances. www.kennyrogers.com This CD by Irene Nachreiner has light-Latin instrumentation, gentle vocals (mostly English but a little French), and either great obscure Christmas carols or fresh arrangements of old favorites. Irene co-wrote with two of the most famous poets of the 19th Century -- Henry Wadsworth Longfellow and Alfred Lord Tennyson, and penned a chorus to go with their words. www.irenesings.com For years, their voices have soared in harmony like the voices of a Christmas choir. Now, more than two decades into their career, Grammy-award winning duo Indigo Girls — Amy Ray and Emily Saliers — have released their first holiday record, Holly Happy Days. The songs are sacred and secular, traditional and original, from Chely Wright’s “It Really Is (A Wonderful Life)” to Woody Guthrie’s “Happy Joyous Hanukkah,” with Janis Ian and Mary Gautier on background vocals. The album also features classic Christmas recordings such as “Oh Holy Night,” “I’ll Be Home For Christmas,” and “Angels We Have Heard On High” as well as three original songs written by Amy and Emily. www.vanguardrecords.com
In making A Christmas Cornucopia, Annie Lennox wanted to reboot, re-energize the songs - some sacred, some secular, all special. To restore the hymnal heart and soulful sentiment, but in a manner that will appeal to listeners of all faiths, creeds and cultures. ‘I started to see these carols very differently. And I want people to hear the carols differently. At the same time, I can’t be prescriptive about what people discover on listening to A Christmas Cornucopia. I think many people will find a connection to it, a certain nostalgia with a fresh twist... It’s been a joy to record, and I hope that people can enjoy it for years to come,’ says Lennox. www.amazon.com
Katharine McPhee has recorded some of her favourite Christmas songs for her new album titled Christmas Is The Time To Say I Love You. She wrote an original song for the album called It’s Not Christmas Without You. The title track of the CD, “Christmas Is The Time To Say I Love You,” is a rarely covered song originally recorded by rocker Billy Squier in 1981. The album is also filled with familiar classics, both traditional and contemporary, from “O Holy Night” and “This Christmas” to a medley of “Away In A Manger”/”O Little Town Of Bethlehem” and “Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas” featuring trumpeter Chris Botti. www.amazon.com Dorothy Savage is an exicitng new face and voice in contemporary Christian music, and is capping off her year with a Christmas album, Sleigh Ride. Combining her favorite timeless songs with light-hearted Christmas classics, Dorothy brings a fresh touch of “new” to the traditional. Dorothy has a tremendous heart for ministry and reaching the hurting with the message of Jesus—particularly teens.
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Usinig her upbeat energy, attitude and presentation, she presents a tremendous testimony of what God has done in her life. www.dorothysavage.com Grammy Award winning Take 6, the a cappella group, has been mixing elements of jazz, gospel, R&B and vintage doo-wap for nearly 25 years. Their fond childhood holiday memories play a big part on the timeless magic of their new Christmas CD, The Most Wonderful Time Of The Year — a collection of heartwarming seasonal favorites, performed with the original flare that is Take 6’s signature. In addition to the title song, enjoy such favorites as “White Christmas”, “Jingle Bells”, I’ll Be Home For Christmas, and many more. www.headsup.com
Not really a holiday album, but with the title, what the heck! Dutch saxophone master Benjamin Herman’s terrific new CD features Herman and his quartet: Anton Goudsmit on guitar, Ernst Glerum on bass, and Joost Patocka on drums. The CD features only songs written by the legendary Dutch pianist and occasional Herman collaborator Misha Mengelberg on disc 1, also includes a second CD showcasing the Quartet’s live prowess during an electrifying 2009 performance at the North Sea Jazz Festival. Herman is arguably one of the most original and productive jazz musicians in the Netherlands, exploring influences beyond the confines of the jazz world. www.benjaminherman.nl
Accent Spotlights . . .
Jane Krakowski “The Laziest Gal In Town”
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art sex kitten, part All-American girl, Jane Krakowski is 100 percent adorablea quality that’s fully evident throughout her debut solo DRG recording: Live at Feinstein’s at Loews Regency Hotel, New York. Krakowski’s patented brand of hot and vulnerability has kept her in good stead for over 20 years from her Broadway triumphs in Grand Hotel, Nine (which earned her a Tony Award) and most recently at City Center’s Encore! Damn Yankees to her popular TV roles in Ally McBeal and her current Emmy Award-winning show, 30 Rock. Her new album entitled The Laziest Gal in Town, features songs popularized by the female performers who have inspired Jane, including Anita O’Day, Ann-Margret and Eartha Kitt. There are, however, a couple of detours: the Sesame Street favorite, “Rubber Ducky” and an offbeat “Drug medley” of “When I Get Low, I Get High” and “Wacky Dust”. She also includes a contemporary twist with a brilliantly updated version of Rodgers & Hart’s “Zip” called “Tweet” with special lyrics by Marc Shaiman and Scott Wittman. Her quintet includes: Michael Kosarin as music director, arranger and piano. For more information, visit www.drgrecords.com. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
Thunderbird Refueling Mission at MacDill Air Force Base, Tampa, Florida Story and phtos by Hank and Yvonne-Evette Charneskey
n Monday morning, October 25th, we got up at truly what seemed like O’Dark Thirty and drove from Clearwater to MacDill AFB in Tampa. We arrived at at 7:30 AM and began the adventure of a lifetime. . .
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fter check-in and orientation, we climbed aboard a bus and were shuttled to the KC135 that was to be our home for the next three hours.
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On our way to connecting with the Thunderbirds, we flew over the BP oil spill (nothing to see but blue water there now, thank goodness). At about 11:30 AM, we arrived at some unknown point over Louisiana where we hooked up with the Thunderbirds for a mid-air refueling mission. To get a sense of how this might work if you were on land, compare this to being on the freeway, pulling up to back of a fuel truck where a boom is extended to your fuel tank. Once finished, you’re on you way to your destination. The difference is, in the KC-135, we were traveling 400+ miles per hour at 34,000 feet. The 3-person crew made it seem effortless (I was definitely impressed). I kept wondering why we had to fly to Louisiana, when it dawned on me, we needed lots of air time to refuel 6 planes...400 mph goes by pretty quickly — three states worth to be exact. After returning to Tampa, we filmed the crew and made a few more photos. A van picked us all up and we cruised back to the parking lot to load our equipment and we headed home. The words that come to mind to describe the experience for us lends new meaning to the phrase, “Oh My Goodness, isn’t this amazing?” We were certainly on cloud nine. Over and Out, VonHenry Media Productions, Clearwater, FL. www.vonhenry.com
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DVD HOLIDAY VIEWS Available On DVD, Digital Download and On Demand. www.hitentertainment.com ‘Tis the season for holiday cheer! Ride through a winter wonderland with Thomas on a special Christmas tree delivery. Join Bob the Builder and his Can-Do Crew as they build a sleigh of their own to make it to the school Christmas Carol Concert in time. See Fireman Sam and his friends get into the holiday spirit with the most exciting Christmas lights display. Finally, enjoy the snow fall with Barney as he teaches Baby Bop that winter is a wonderful time for fun even when it’s cold outside. www.anchorbayentertainment.com Ally (Emmanuelle Vaugier) is a smart young career woman who needs a new job. Samantha (Cynthia Gibb) is a busy Beverly Hills advertising executive/mom whose too-well-mannered kids need some fun in their lives. And Danny Donner (Dean Cain) is the tough-guy owner of a chocolate company who wants a major ad campaign immediately. Could it all somehow lead to the Christmas that changes everyone’s lives forever? A surprising comedy about little white lies, big holiday wishes, and a woman who may just find love in the most unexpected places by becoming A NANNY FOR CHRISTMAS.
www.infinity-entertainmentgroup.com No song evokes holiday season nostalgia like ‘White Christmas.’ With more than 100 million copies sold, Bing Crosby is almost as synonymous with Christmas as Santa. But the star didn’t make the first of his seasonal television specials until 1961 — all major productions available for the first time since their original broadcast. Enjoy four of these glittering holiday extravaganzas (1961-1977), carefully restored from the original masters. Crosby is also joined by a musical whos who, including Bob Hope, Robert Goulet, Mary Martin, Andre Previn, opera star Mary Costa, Terry Thomas, Ron Moody, David Bowie and more.
Available On DVD, Digital Download and On Demand. www.hitentertainment.com Join Thomas and his friends as they celebrate the holidays in these four enchanting tales. Thomas has a special delivery for the season - the Star of Knapford, a festive light that makes wishes come true. The children are excited for the Snowman Party in the Town Square but it’s up to Thomas to find the snowman a special hat before the party can begin. Watch Bash, Dash and Ferdinand prepare for the first ever Misty Island Christmas party. Then Henry helps Sir Topham Hatt prepare a secret holiday surprise for all of Sodor.
www.wbshop.com A CHRISTMAS CAROL (1938) Reginald Owen portrays Charles Dickens’ holiday humbug Ebenezer Scrooge. From sets to stars to story, this triumphant adaptation adds a glow to the season. CHRISTMAS IN CONNECTICUT (1945) A magazine columnist totally devoid of the homemaking skills espoused in her column had better get some fast: her boss has invited himself and a recently returned war hero to her home for Christmas. IT HAPPENED ON 5TH AVENUE Home for the holidays. GI families hit by the post-World War II housing crunch take over an abandoned New York City mansion. THE SHOP AROUND THE CORNER Margaret Sullavan and James Stewart play bickering store clerks who are unknowingly secret pen pals.
www.disneydvdmovies.com In the tradition of Disney’s classic holiday tales comes a heartwarming movie about the power of giving and the true meaning of Christmas. When Santa and his new friend, Paws, discover that the boys and girls of the world have lost the spirit of the season, they take a trip to New York City. But after Santa loses his memory, it’s up to Paws, a faithful orphan named Quinn, her new friend Will and a group of magical talking dogs to save St. Nick.
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NEW DVD RELEASES ACTION www.disneydvdmovies.com In the spirit of the Pirates Of The Caribbean trilogy, get transported to the mystical lands of Persia for this wildly entertaining, epic action-adventure. It’s a race against time when a rogue prince (Jake Gyllenhaal) reluctantly teams up with a rival princess (Gemma Arterton) to safeguard a magical dagger that gives its possessor the power to reverse time and rule the world. Prince Of Persia is filled with death-defying escapes and unexpected twists at every turns at every turn. www.anchorbayentertainment.com When Jim’s (Steve Austin) teenage daughter is kidnapped, he’s forced to lead a band of ruthless killers into the wilderness to retrieve their share of a missing heist score. In order to rescue his daughter, Jim must use his unique brand of survival skills to outsmart the kidnappers before it’s too late. Hunt To Kill is an action packed adrenaline rush about a man operating on his most primal instincts to save the one thing he’s willing to die for - his daughter.
www.video.movies.go.com When things get rough on Wisteria Lane, the Housewives band together like never before. Relive the passion, the laughter and the mystery of TV’s celebrated dramatic comedy on thie 5-disc set. The neighborhood is jolted with the arrival of Angie Bolen (Drea De Matteo) and her family, and it soon becomes clear that they are hiding something. But what is their secret, and what are their true intentions? Meanwhile, a plane crash on Wisteria Lane causes everyone to reflect on their lilves and the choices that have made them who they are.
www.infinity-entertainmentgroup.com She’s sold 120 million records; charted nine #1 songs; won 16 Grammy Awards; headlined three solo world tours; produced records; starred in seven feature films (Dreamgirls, Austin Powers in Goldmember); and launched her own fashion and fragrance lines. It’s hard to believe that Texas-born Beyonce Giselle Knowles took singing and dancing lessons as a child to overcome shyness. By seven, she was winning competitions and, at 15, she formed Destiny’s Child with Kelly
Rowland. After 14 years, Destiny’s Child called it quits, and Beyonce has achieved even more success as a solo artist. www.mvdb2b.com Take an inside look at the excitement, the thrills and the sheer talent of the man who made it as one of the world’s most successful solo artists after his departure from the Beatles in 1969: John Lennon. From his musical and songwriting input with the Beatles (especially his partnership with McCartney) to his astronomical solo career, Lennon has certainly had a major impact in the music world. This DVD release is a collection of original rare film and videos of the singer, newsreels and photographs from private collections.
www.infinity-entertainmentgroup.com Soar over Europe and experience history and the countryside from an eagle’s perspective. Utilizing cutting-edge, high-definition camera-mount technology, this remarkable series provides a unique view of Europe and its history that will take your breath away. All Six episodes cover a range of exploration, from Britain’s castles (both ancient and modern) to Europe’s mystical sites and ruins and on a magical journey through Ireland, Italy and France.
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GAMING SCENE LAS VEGAS THE HOLIDAYS ARRIVE AT BELLAGIO CONSERVATORY & BOTANICAL GARDENS - DEC 3JAN 2. Bellagio’s Conservatory & Botanical Gardens welcomes winter with a holiday display rich in nostalgia. The display features four, 15-foot tall toy soldiers, eight majestic reindeer made of whole pecans and a seven-foot-tall, cus-
tom-sculpted rocking horse in the midst of a whimsical rail display featuring a working Bellagio-emblazoned train. The centerpiece is a 42-foot Shasta Fir tree featuring thousands of holiday lights. www.bellagio.com BELLAGIO GALLERY OF FINE ART LAUNCHES ‘ART & WINE: A PERFECT PAIRING’ Jason Smith, Bellagio’s Director of Wine pairs wines from Bellagio’s cellar with artworks featured in the current exhibition, “Figuratively Speaking: A Survey of the Human Form.” “Art & Wine” is on the 2nd Wed of every month (Dec 8 and Jan 12) and features art and pairings that vary from champagne to tequila to possibly beer. This special event has an interactive wine and art conversation. www.bellagio.com. SINATRA DANCE WITH ME DEBUTS AT WYNN LAS VEGAS - To celebrate and honor Frank Sinatra’s 95th birthday on December 12, Wynn Las Vegas will premiere performances of SINATRA Dance With Me in the Encore Theater on December 11. SINATRA Dance With Me follows
four couples as they fall in and out of love at a swinging nightclub. Blending the vocals of Frank Sinatra with a big band and 14 dancers, SINATRA Dance With Me weaves classic standards including “Fly Me To The Moon,” “My Way” and “That’s Life” in a soaring dance fantasy of romance and seduction. SINATRA Dance With Me features original recorded masters of Frank Sinatra’s voice backed by a live on-stage, 17-piece big band. The show is scheduled to run through Jan. 29. www.wynnlasvegas.com FREMONT STREET EXPERIENCE HOSTS NEW YEAR’S 2011 TRIBUTE PALOOZA WEEKEND - Fremont Street Experience will once again host “New Year’s 2011 Tribute Palooza Weekend,” with 12 of the best tribute bands from around the U.S. performing on three stages from 6:15 p.m. to 1:00 a.m. The tribute bands will perform the music of AC/DC, Aerosmith, Green Day, Journey, Led Zeppelin, No Doubt, Queen, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rolling Stones, Styx, Sublime and Van Halen. Also, Fremont will launch real fireworks under the canopy at midnight synchronized to virtual fireworks on the Viva Vision screen. On Jan. 1-2, Fremont continues the party with “Rockin’ Recovery” - six bands on Saturday and three bands on Sunday. www.vegasexperience.com LAS VEGAS CELEBRATES NEW YEAR’S EVE WITH MIDNIGHT FIREWORKS DISPLAY - Las Vegas Events and the Las Vegas Convention and Visitors Authority will host the New Year’s Eve celebration known as America’s Party: Las Vegas New Year 2011, including a spectacular fireworks show fired from seven rooftop locations along the Las Vegas Strip. The firing locations (from the south, heading north) include the following resort properties: MGM Grand, Aria,
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Planet Hollywood, Caesars Palace, Treasure Island (TI), The Venetian and the Stratosphere. CAESARS PALACE, IMPERIAL PALACE AND RIO ALL-SUITE HOTEL & CASINO INTRODUCE PETSTAY - Caesars Palace, Imperial Palace and Rio All-Suite Hotel &
Casino have introduced “PetStay Las Vegas,” the resorts’ new pet-friendly hotel program. Each of the three resorts allows guests to check into their hotel rooms with their dogs and offers canine-friendly in-room amenities. The program includes a welcome packet that directs guests to outdoor relief areas, dog walking routes and specialty room service menus, a mat, food and water dishes, disposable waste bags and dog treats. Dogs must weigh 50 pounds or less and be present at the time of check-in. www.harrahs.com/petstaylasvegas LE RÊVE PRESENTS THE ULTIMATE SCUBA EXPERIENCE Wynn Las Vegas’ show is giving certified SCUBA divers the opportunity of a lifetime with the Diver’s Dream Package, allowing SCUBA diving during a live performance of Le Rêve. The Diver’s Dream Package includes
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Holidays at the Beau Rivage Get in the spirit of the holidays with the delightful “The Spirit Of Christmas” show in the Beau Rivage Theatre, from Dec 17-28. The show is a dazzling New York style spectacular featuring a talented cast, glittering costumes and the highest kicking chorus girls this side of the North Pole. This festive musical extravaganza will delight the entire family and take you on a nostalgic Christmas journey filled with good cheer.
Stick around for New Year’s Eve, and spend it with the B-52s in the theater, and/or the New Year’s Eve Bash at Coast with DVDJ Crush laying down the beats, and some rockin’ sets by the group Triggerproof. For future entertainment, guests can look forward to seeing the likes of
a two-night stay at Wynn or Encore, VIP Indulgence tickets to Le Rêve, a private backstage tour, SDI Certified SCUBA training session with the Le Rêve diving team and the opportunity to dive during the live show. www.wynnlasvegas.com
and in the next few months. Call 888-566-7469, or visit www.beaurivage.com for act dates and times. Located on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, the Beau Rivage is a beautiful resort destination — very convenient for Tampa Bay area folks looking for either an exciting time, or a relaxing time, or both - the Beau has it all. With a new partnership with Allegiant Airlines, the resort has an exclusive package that includes a round trip non-stop jet flight, ground transfers, and two nights in a luxurious guestroom — starting at only $199 per person (double occupancy). The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport. Right now the flights are once a day, and leave (and return) on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays. Golfers will definitely want to experience Fallen Oak, Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevation changes (unique for a Gulf Coast course) and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and wetlands. GOLF Magazine rated it one of the “Top 100 Courses You Can Play.” A visit to the Beau’s spa and salon will show Epicurean treatments unique to the Gulf Coast, and a perfect place for a Girlfriend Getaway with their special “Pamper Parties.” The dining opportunities at the Beau are wonderfully varied - from the simple Snacks Deli to the exceptional BR Prime (the Beau’s signature steak and seafood restaurant), and every thing in between. Guests have eleven restaurants to choose from, as well as several bars. Reservations for the air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 877-462-2328. Visit www.beaurivage.com for more information on the resort.
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All guestrooms are suites at The Palazzo.
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(which are already heads and tails in luxury above same price point rooms at other Vegas resorts, at a spacious 720 square feet.) The beautifully appointed suites have a sunken living room, large 130 sq. ft. marble bathroom with a Roman tub, 3 flat-screen TVs throughout, remote-control shades and curtains, a dining table, and a work desk. The bedroom area comes with either two queens or king beds that are super plush. And that, dear readers, is their basic guestroom. They actually get more and more luxurious as you upgrade.
s if staying in their gorgeous guest– room suites wasn’t enough, the Palazzo in Las Vegas has upped the The Palazzo and it’s next door sister ante, and now offers a “Prestige” package, resort, The Venetian, have it locked with which, at $100 more per night, is too good to the best of everything — guestsuites, pass up. Does that sound a bit pricey to you? dining, spa, entertainment, shopping, and Here’s what you get for your extra $100: gaming. We’ve already mentioned the • Champagne upon check in at the private guestsuites, and dining at the resorts is Prestige level on the 23rd floor. superlative as well, with many and varied • Packing and unpacking service. choices. From the basic (the food court in • Personal concierge service. Venetian’s Canal Shoppes) to the fine • Daily newspaper delivery to your suite. (celebrity chef restaurants) there is some• Complimentary cocktail reception in the thing for every budget and every mood. 12,000 sq. ft. Prestige Lounge. Particular fine dining standouts are • Access to the Canyon Ranch SpaClub fitMario Batali’s Carnevino, Wolfgang ness center. Puck’s CUT, and Thomas Keller’s • Admission to Azure, the Palazzo’s luxury Bouchon. pool. Shopping within both resorts is pretty • Complimentary WiFi. • Complimentary local and Hot and cold hors d’oeuvres are served upscale, and you will find your most coveted 1-800 calls. in the Prestige Lounge. brands setting up shop • Business center with copyhere (think Barneys, ing, printing and internet availJimmy Choo, Piaget, ability. Ferragamo, etc.) • Plasma TVs throughout Some of the hottest the Prestige Lounge. shows in Las Vegas are • A deluxe continental at the Palazzo/Venetian breakfast in the Prestige lounge with the blockbuster • Afternoon teas and coffees “Jersey” Boys”, the in the Prestige lounge. quirky “Blue Man • Hot and cold hors d’oeuGroup”, and the best provres in the Prestige lounge. duction you’ve ever seen • Desserts and snacks in the of “The Phantom Of The Prestige lounge. Opera” to name a few. If you add all these perks Between the two casiup, they will certainly come nos (Palazzo & Venetian) you will find every well over $100, and you have the convenience table game imaginable and all the latest slot of not dealing with anything individually. So, machines. The two resorts are also offering a yes. Well worth it. new exclusive feature called “PocketCasino”, which enables you to keep gambling while you The guestrooms in the Prestige Package are drink, dance or dine. You can play Sports Book the same as the regular Palazzo guestrooms games, Extra Odds Baccarat, True Odds Prestige Lounge for relaxing and having a drink and a bite to eat. Black Jack, Extra Odds Black Jack, DeepStack progressive video poker and many more on this handheld device you can pick up in the casinos. (I’m not sure how you play blackjack or poker and dance at the same time, but that’s me.) Palazzo’s Azure (only open Friday thru Sunday) is the ultimate www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
in luxury pools. It looks like the French Riviera, and feels almost overindulgent (if there’s such a thing.) Complimentary fresh fruit, frozen grapes, beverages, ice towels, Evian mistings and fine cuisine samplings are offered while you lounge on a daybed or in a cabana. Enjoy music and fashion shows, and tasty treats by Wolfgang Puck (like smoked salmon pizza with black caviar, or Maine lobster salad) along with cocktails and champagne before or after you relax with a 50-minute massage. Ahhh. As you can see, you can stay at the Palazzo and actually never venture outside it’s complex
Inviting Prestige lobby.
for a complete resort vacation. And we have done it many times. If you visit Palazzo’s website, you will see some fabulous vacation package offers. As of this writing, there is a Special Moment’s Package for $139 per night, which includes a luxury suite, view upgrade, $30 dining credit, $50 off 50 minute spa service, 30% off Blue Man Group tix, $50 PocketCasino gaming credit, and $25 slot credit per guest. If you add that all up, the Palazzo is in the minus column.
Friendly concierge staff welcomes guests to the Prestige level.
Throw in the Prestige Package and you’re still way ahead of the game. But wait! There’s more! Join the Player’s Club (free) and enjoy gaming, and you will receive very generous offers for future visits (which can include free stays, dining credits, and slot/gaming free play). By the time you read this, that particular package may no longer be available, but there will be some other great offer in its place. I do believe I just talked us into heading back to Vegas and the Palazzo real soon! For more information on the Palazzo and the Prestige Package, visit www.palazzolasvegas.com
by Sarah Carlson-Ditmeyer ISBN: 978-1-4349-0395-2 www.dorrancebookstore.com A lost duck attempts to make his way home to Florida from the North Pole in this delightful holiday tale When a young duck named Woodrow, on his maiden migratory voyage, finds himself at the North Pole, a wild adventure begins back to his intended destination in the juniper swamps of Florida. Woodrow does not like to fly and is so far from home. Two children with a duck on their Christmas list may provide Santa Claus with the perfect solution. As Woodrow learns from the friendly and not-so-friendly wild bunch he meets along the way, the impact of one person can make all the difference, good or bad. And while Woodrow could soar above the clouds, he prefers to walk! Sarah Carlson-Ditmyer’s charming story invites you to follow our walking duck and think about what place we inhabit in the world around us.
By Jim Harris ISBN: 1589808509 www.dorrancebookstore.com In this twist on the classic Night Before Christmas poem, eight enormous dinosaurs soar through the sky before crashing onto the rooftop of one unsuspecting father. After a scaly reptile squeezes down the chimney and eats all the food meant for Santa, the worried man begins to wonder if he is next. With the help of Saint Nick, the man and his son, Mikey, attempt to save Christmas from the prehistoric creatures. Hilarity and adventure follow in this festive tale with a primitive twist.
By Bill Berlin and Susan Isakoff Berlin Illustrated by Peter J. Welling ISBN: 1589807987 www.dorrancebookstore.com In this Jewish version of How the Grinch Stole
Christmas! an angry Kvetch plots to ruin Hanukkah even as the town of Oyville eats latkes and lights menorahs. The children remind the kvetch that the true meaning of Hanukkah is to treasure true justice and strive to be free. But can the kvetch change his ways and become a believer?
by Greg Kincaid ISBN-10: 0307589633 www.amazon.com
It is the winter of 1962, and Kansas is hit with one of the worst blizzards in its history. It is during this cruel season that twelve-yearold George is called upon to endure the death of his father and the upkeep of the family farm that is his legacy. When his mother and sisters leave for Minnesota, George has only his grandparents and the companionship of Tucker, an Irish setter, to help him persevere through these most difficult challenges. Can he find the strength to walk the road that leads to healing, finding his true self and ultimately becoming a man?
by Tim Slover ISBN-10: 0553808109 www.amazon.com In this richly imagined tale of Santa’s origins, the man in full finally emerges. The Christmas Chronicles is at once an action-packed adventure, an inspiring story of commitment and faith, and a moving love story. It all starts in 1343, when the child Klaus is orphaned and adopted by a craftsmen’s guild. The boy will grow to become a master woodworker with an infectious laugh and an unparalleled gift for making toys. His talent and generosity uniquely equip him to bestow hundreds of gifts on children at Christmas—and to court the delightful Anna, who enters his life on a sleigh driven by the reindeer Dasher and becomes his wife. But Klaus will be shadowed
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by the envious Rolf Eckhof, who will stop at nothing to subvert him. An epic battle between good and evil is waged in the frosty Christmas skies.
by Matthew Litt ISBN-10: 1933909455 www.amazon.com The American spirit and the role of Christmas is examined when President Truman delcares a four day Christmas weekend for federal employees, a hiatus unique to American culture. The U.S. Military launches “Operation Magic Carpet” to get tens of thousands of GI’s in Europe and Asia home for Christmas, and at home, the U.S. Army and Navy launches “Operation Santa Claus” to process those thousands of GI’s for discharge in time for Christmas.
NEW RELEASES THE MOST DANGEROUS ENEMY: AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY OF THE BATTLE OF BRITAIN by Stephen Bungay ISBN-10: 0760339368 www.zenithpress.com Following its original publication in narrative form ten years ago, Stephen Bungay’s The Most Dangerous Enemy has been acclaimed as the definitive history of the Battle of Britain, a book whose authority and comprehensiveness far exceeded all previous accounts. Andrew Roberts, prominent military historian and author of Masters and Commanders: How Four Titans Won the War in the West, 1941-1945, said that The Most Dangerous Enemy is “the best single-volume history to be published in over a decade.” To commemorate the 70th Anniversary of the Battle, this classic work has been transformed into a new, large-format, fully illustrated edition. With over 150 photographs (including rare color photos), full color maps, and diagrams, and numerous sidebar features, it brings this dramatic story to life in a fresh and exciting way. PATTON’S THIRD ARMY IN WORLD WAR II: AN ILLUSTRATED HISTORY by Michael Green, and James D. Brown ISBN-10: 0760336911 www.zenithpress.com Patton was champing at the bit to lead the D-Day invasion, but Eisenhower placed him in command of a decoy unit, the First U.S. Army Group. Nearly seven weeks after D-Day, Patton finally got his chance to take Third Army into battle. He began a ten-month rampage across
With happy spirits, the veterans set out for home, clogging rail depots, bus stations and airports creating, at that time, the greatest traffic jam in the nation’s history. Some of the more fortunate are driven thousands of miles home by grateful citizens demonstrating the Christmas spirit in their own unique way.Across the nation, people crowd churches praying with gratitude for the peace in place, and reach out to wounded veterans, children who lost fathers,and neighbors who lost sons. Americans in big cities and small, participate in displays of the intrinsic love so indicative of the American spirit.
France, driving through Germany and into Nazi-occupied Czechoslovakia and Austria. Along the way Third Army forces entered the Battle of the Bulge, breaking the siege of Bastogne. It was a turning point in the war, and afterward the Third Army pushed eastward again. Patton’s Third Army in World War II covers Patton’s command of Third Army with a focus on the armor. Archival photos along with frequent quotes complete the portrait of Patton as well as his men as they fight their way across the Third Reich. GREAT BASTARDS OF HISTORY: TRUE AND RIVETING ACCOUNTS OF THE MOST FAMOUS ILLEGITIMATE CHILDREN WHO WENT ON TO ACHIEVE GREATNESS by Jure Fiorillo ISBN-10: 1592334016 www.fairwindspress.com For much of history and across most of the world, being born out of wedlock—a love child, a bastard—was a serious impediment to success. Illegitimate offspring were subject to neglect, abandonment, disinheritance, and social exclusion, and often found the usual routes to education, wealth, and status blocked. Great Bastards of History brings together the stories of fifteen remarkable and influential people who overcame the disadvantages of illegitimate birth to rise to positions of power. Among its subjects are powerful political players such as Alexander Hamilton, and cultural figureheads such as Leonardo da Vinci www.AccentOnTampaBay.com
AC/DC: High-Voltage Rock ‘n’ Roll: The Ultimate Illustrated History by Phil Sutcliffe ISBN-10: 0760338329 www.voyageurpress.com Formed in 1973 by brothers Angus and Malcolm Young, AC/DC has become one of the most popular rock ‘n’ roll bands in history. This massive new title follows the band from its roots in Sydney, Australia, to its most recent releases and world tours. A special cover incorporating Angus on a spinning disc gives way to more than 400 illustrations include handbills, posters, backstage passes, and vinyl from around the globe, as well as rare candid and performance photography. BITTER LEGACY A Matt Royal Mystery by H. Terrell Griffin ISBN-10: 1933515961 www.oceanviewpub.com After a week away, Matt Royal’s ready to get back to the Longboat Key good life good fishing, good food, good beer, and more good fishing. But Matt comes back to bad news: while he was away, a sniper tried to kill one of his best friends. Even worse, now that Matt’s back, someone’s trying to kill him. With no clue who’s after him or why, Matt soon finds he’s at the center of a mystery involving a lawyer’s murder, a tourist left for dead, a ruthless biker gang, a reclusive billionaire with nothing to lose, and an ancient document that could bring ruin to some of the most entrenched financial interests in Florida.
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