Accent On Tampa Bay HOLIDAY ISSUE, 2018 by Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine

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Accent On Tampa Bay

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Vol. 33, Issue 245 Dec, 2018 Publisher Albert F. Martino, Jr. Senior Editor Melissa Wolcott Martino Sales Barbara McGovern Graphic Designers Missy Lynn Contributors Mary Lou Janson Vicki Kolb Michael Martino Barbara McGovern Marty Peters Deborah Quigley JoAnn Ryan Photographer Melissa Wolcott Martino Proofreader Beau deCatta Cover Photo by: Matt Beard PUBLISHED ON LINE BY

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St. Petersburg, FL (727) 577-5500

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Y A D I L O H S T N EVE mpa Bay

Fans Pick the Classic poll and earned its spot on the lineup. ELF (2003) — 3:00pm Sunday, December 9

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A DOUBLEWIDE, TEXAS CHRISTMAS at West Coast Players - thru Dec 16. When the residents of the newest - and tiniest - town in Texas, Doublewide, find that the very existence of their little municipality is threatened by the Big Boys of McTwayne County government, Mayor Joveeta Crumpler and her loyal band of buddies rise to the challenge. And while they are sorting out their citizenship issues, they also take on all the neighboring ‘burgs in the annual Battle of the Mangers challenge. 21905 US 19 North, near the corner of Drew St. and US 19 N, 727-437-2363.

TAMPA THEATRE’S HOLIDAY CLASSICS - thru Dec 23. At the close of every year, Tampa’s merriest movie palace presents a selection of holiday movies to ring in the yuletide, celebrate that chill in the air, and bring families and loved ones together in one of Tampa Bay’s fondest holiday traditions. With five weekends’ worth of programming, the Holiday Classics will carry viewers from the end of pumpkin spice season right into the heart of peppermint: A CHRISTMAS STORY (1983) — 3:00pm Sunday, December 2 Beating out the animated Polar Express and the frankly inexplicable Santa Claus Conquers the Martians, A Christmas Story won Tampa Theatre’s 4

IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE (1946) — Eight Shows from Friday, December 14 to Thursday, December 20 WHITE CHRISTMAS (1954) — 3:00pm Sunday, December 23 On the heels of its tremendous success with the Won’t You Be My Neighbor? Block Party and sneaker & sweater donation drive earlier in 2018, Tampa Theatre will be collecting canned and imperishable food through the duration of the series, to benefit local charity Metropolitan Ministries. Metropolitan Ministries expects to help 20,000 hurting families this holiday season, and Tampa Theatre knows that its loyal and generous fans will be excited to contribute food to a good cause as part of their favorite yuletide tradition: the Holiday Classics movie series.e’s mission to bring classic films to Tampa Bay area families in the holiday season. All films and further information available at www.tampatheatre.org/holiday FREE PHOTOS WITH SANTA AND SNOW - thru DEC 24. Snow falls nightly from 6 – 9 pm at the top and bottom of the hour. 4 – 9m Fri/noon – 9 pm Sat/noon – 5 pm Sun/11:30 – 3:30 Christmas Eve, Free, Sundial, 153 2nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg. 727.800.3201 www.sundialstpete.com MERRY & BRIGHT: 2018 HOLIDAY SHOW & SALE - thru Dec 28. Morean Arts Center. support

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local artists and give you the opportunity to pick up some truly unique gifts for your friends and family this holiday season. Purchase one-of-a-kind items for everyone on your holiday shopping list and choose from a variety of hand-crafted jewelry, functional pottery, hand-blown glass pieces, paintings, ornaments and more.

AMERICAN VICTORY SHIP DECKS THE HALLS - Sat thru Dec 29. The American Victory Ship and Museum is decked out and ready for the holidays. The ship will offer youth events on Satur-

days throughout December, as well as the Holiday Light Boat Parade slated for Saturday, December 22 from 6:30pm to 9pm. From Christmas trees and snow to a cozy fireplace and numerous animated inflatables, the joyous decor makes for wonderful photo opportunities aboard the WWII 1945 cargo vessel. The AmVic is offering activities for youths on Sat, December 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 10am to 5pm. Children will receive free popcorn, freeze pops and candy canes. There will also be a special arts and crafts section where children can create 4 of their own ornaments free of charge. Children can choose to take their ornaments home or decorate the shipâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s large tree located at its entrance. Tickets can be purchased aboard the ship on the days of the events. www.americanvictory.org EVERY CHRISTMAS STORY EVER TOLD - thru DEC 30. A hilarious mashup of your favorite Christmas stories and carols. This madcap romp is perfect for the whole family. 7 pm Wed and Thurs/8 pm Fri and Sat/2 pm Sat and Sun, $. freeFall Theatre Company, 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727.498.5205. www.freefalltheatre.com

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HOLIDAY EVENTS HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN THE GARDEN - thru DEC 30. Delight in the shimmering lights, holiday entertainment, beautiful flora and warmth of the season. Special visits from Santa. 5:30 – 9:30 pm, $4 Suggested Donation/ Under 12 Free, Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. 727.582.2100 flbg.org HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN THE GARDEN - thru Sun, Dec 30. 5:30 – 9:30 pm, $4 Suggested Donation/ Under 12 Free, Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo. Delight in the shimmering lights, holiday entertainment, beautiful flora and warmth of the season. Special visits from Santa. 727.582.2100 flbg.org

MISS BENNET: CHRISTMAS AT PEMBERLEY - thru Sun, Dec 30. 7 pm Wednesday &

Thursday/2pm Saturday & Sunday/8 pm Friday & Saturday, Prices vary, American Stage, Raymond James Theatre, 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg. Inspired by one of the most beloved literary romances of all time, Miss Bennet will enchant Jane Austen fans and new-comers alike. www.americanstage.org WATERFRONT LIGHTS AND DISPLAY - thru Tues, Jan 1. Free, North Straub Park, South Straub Park, Pioneer Park, Al Lang Park and Albert Whitted Park, St. Petersburg. See thousands of holiday lights and decorations. Don’t miss the giant greeting card display along Bayshore Dr. at Vinoy Park made by local teens from St. Petersburg’s recreation centers. stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents

HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN LARGO CENTRAL PARK - thru Jan 1. Features a spectacular holiday light display, carousel and seven-story Ferris wheel that offers a bird’s-eye view of the 70-acre Largo Central Park and more than two million dazzling Oakdale Christmas Light Display

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LED lights. Rides have a fee. 727.587.6740. 6 – 11 pm, Free, Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Dr., Largo. www.facebook. com/events/2480752145323627 OAKDALE CHRISTMAS LIGHT DISPLAY - thru Thurs, Jan 3. 6 – 10 pm, Free, 2719 Oakdale Street S, St. Petersburg. This event is among the largest and longest running home displays in the United States. One-half acre in size, Approximately 1/4 million lights. A walking yard tour that includes a small pond, several waterfalls & fountains. An 18-train HO scale railroad, with moving planes and carnival rides. Many animated & lit up figures and inflatables. House covered with lights and window cabinet displays. Bubble machines for the kids. 727 822-5562. www.christmasdisplay.org

Windward Passage, Clearwater. 727.441.1790. www.seewinter.com

HOLLY EVERGREEN TO OPEN ST. PETE’S FIRST BRICK AND MORTAR POP-UP RETAIL

STORE - thru Jan 8. Holly’s Holiday Boutique will be St. Petersburg’s first pop-up brick and mortar retail store, located at 1010 Central Avenue, Suite 105, in the Edge District, Downtown St. Petersburg. The store will be open until January 8. It is a thoughtfully curated Holiday Gift Boutique, featuring unique gifts for everyone on your holiday shopping list, including some of St. Pete’s most desired makers and designers from across the country. www.HollysPopUp.com STRAZ HOLIDAY EVENTS DIE FLEDERMAUS - DEC 2. This madcap misadventure on New Continued

WINTER VILLAGE - thru Jan 5 The park is transformed with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for children and adults of all ages featuring 10 boutiques, specialty drinks and treats and an outdoor ice skating rink. $. Times vary, Free. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N Ashley Dr., Tampa. www.wintervillagetampa.com WINTER’S WONDERLAND - Jan 6. Experience Winter’s Wonderland with lights and decorations all around the aquarium. See the holiday-themed habitats and wish happy holidays to the animals. Watch and interact with Santa and his elves as they dive in Mavis’s Rescue Hideaway. See the lights around Clearwater Bay on the Sea of Lights boat cruise. 10 am – 6 pm. $. Clearwater Marine Aquarium, 249 www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

HOLIDAY EVENTS

to this dreamy Land of the Sweets. www.strazcenter. org

Year’s Eve features a bunch of booze and superb music from Johann “The Blue Danube” Strauss II. THE TEXAS TENORS: DEEP IN THE HEART OF CHRISTMAS - TUE • DEC 4 • 8PM. These boys go big in this holiday concert of favorite tunes. JANE LYNCH: A SWINGIN’ LITTLE CHRISTMAS - DEC 8 and 9. Emmy®- and Golden Globe-winning comedian extraordinaire Jane Lynch (Hollywood Game Night, Glee) delivers a big, shiny sack of Christmas cheer in this delightfully kitschy, retro-amazing concert of swing- and big band-style renditions of holiday classics.

8th ANNUAL LIGHTING OF THE CHRISTMAS TREE - Sat, Dec 1. 4 – 7 pm, Free, Downtown Tierra Verde. A visit from Santa, a pet parade, raffle prizes, games for kids of all ages, live music and entertainment. www.tierraverdebusinesspartnership.com/treelighting JINGLE BELL KIDS SEAWALL TOURNAMENT - Dec 1. Kids 16 years old & younger are invited to come fish the seawall tournament & join in the holiday festivities including a big kids raffle. Free for families with a donation of an unwrapped toy benefiting Santa’s Angels and a non-perishable food item benefiting A Kind Mouse. Bait & light tackle will be supplied, you just need your fishing pole. Johns Pass, 12901 Gulf Blvd, Saint Petersburg, FL. 727-286-0977. www.anglerarmory.com/ jingle-bell-kids-seawall-fishing-tournament/ 2018 RED & GREEN PARTY - Dec 1. The Red & Green Party is a holiday event for the LGBT community. Over 400 friends and supporters will make their way to Sunken Gardens to celebrate Pride through a one of a kind holiday experience. Guests will have access to multiple venues throughout the evening, each Continued

AN UNFORGETTABLE NAT KING COLE CHRISTMAS STARRING EVAN TYRONE MARTIN - DEC 13 -16. He took the Windy City by storm with this jawdropping Nat King Cole tribute show. Tampa music and Broadway to be thunderstruck. TSO’s lovers, annualprepare November-December multi-sensory extravaganza has cemented the group’s status NEXT GENERATION BALLET’S NUTCRACKER as a must-attend, multi-generational, holiday tradition. This year’s 20th anniversary tour, a presenDEC 21-23. This sparkling holiday treat sells out every tation of TSO’s “The Ghosts of Christmas Eve,” features founder/composer/lyricist Paul O’Neill’s year and features famous soloists from New York City timeless story of a runaway who finds her way into a mysterious abandoned theater. The rock opera Ballet, Miami Ballet and more. Don’t wait to buy your tix

AMALIE ARENA

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA Sunday, December 16

features such enduring fan-favorites as “Christmas Eve/Sarajevo 12/24,” “O’ Come All Ye Faithful,” “Good King Joy,” “Christmas Canon,” “Music Box Blues,” “Promises To Keep,” and “This Christmas Day.” A portion of every ticket sold benefits select local charities.

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HOLIDAY EVENTS featuring something different and unique. With an open bar featuring vodka, beer and soft drinks, and complimentary appetizers, guests will dine al fresco in the 100 year old botanical garden featuring some of the regions oldest tropical plants. St Pete Pride, 400 Bayshore Dr NE, Saint Petersburg, FL. 727-342-0084. www.stpetepride.com SANTAS TWILIGHT 5K - SAFETY HARBOR - Dec 1. A festive holiday nighttime 5K run/walk along the beautiful waterfront of Safety Harbor, FL. Amenities include a shirt, well monitored course, chip timing, glow necklaces, entertainment, hot chocolate & holiday cookies, and a holiday themed finisher medal. $. 6 PM – 9 PM. 352-394-1320. Safety Harbor Marina - Veterans Park, Veteran’s Memorial Lane, Safety Harbor, FL www.sommersports.com/

ping. Lunch served at noon. Benefits city beautification projects. BJ Flowers 863.420.1226 or Judy Koepkey 615.556.4977. OLDSMAR CARES SPREAD THE LOVE HOLIDAY TOY DRIVE - Dec 1 - 14. “Spread the Love” Holiday Toy Drive to benefit children in our local community. This year’s event is going to be a great time for our guests including pictures with Mr. and Mrs. Claus, crafts to make and take home and the Kona Ice truck serving frosty treats. You can help by dropping off a new, unwrapped toy (ages 2-16) between Dec 1 - 14, from 9am to noon or during regular office hours. Oldsmar Cares, 149 SR 580 W, Oldsmar. 727-543-0299.

JOHN’S PASS VILLAGE TREE LIGHTING - Dec 1. A special guest will arrive courtesy of the Madeira Beach Fire Department. 6:15 pm, Free, John’s Pass Village, Madeira Beach. facebook.com/ events/427827634417041/?active_tab=about FLORIDA ORCHESTRA GUILD’S HOLIDAY TOUR OF HOMES - Sat, Dec 1. 10 am – 4 pm, Northeast St. Petersburg. Each residence will be decorated in holiday traditions unique to the family living there. In addition to decorating interior spaces, many of the homeowners expand the holidays into outdoor patio and pool areas. All proceeds will benefit The Florida Orchestra. 727.254.1176.

HOLLY FEST BAZAAR & LUNCHEON - Sat, Dec 1. 10 am – 2 pm, $15, Treasure Island Community Center, 154 106th Ave., Treasure Island. Wonderful crafts, money tree, 50/50, baskets, jewelry and holiday shop10

CLEARWATER’S WINTER WONDERLAND - December 1 - 22. Winter Wonderland is where Santa will plug in the 100,000 twinkling lights that light up 77 live Christmas trees in his village. “For the past 25 years, our Winter Wonderland has had an unbroken record as a safe, family fun festival,” said Ms. Pam Ryan Anderson, Chairman of the Clearwater Community Volunteers. “This holiday ‘village’ is every child’s magical playground where they can decorate cookies with Mrs. Claus, visit with Santa and his elves, pet baby animals, ride ponies and the Winter Wonderland train, slide down the 20-foot slide, jump enthusiastically in Winter Wonderland’s bouncy house and take a spin on the human gyroscope. This year there may even be surprise visits from the Grinch, along with some snow and nightly entertainment on the stage.” Clearwater’s Winter Wonderland is also a food and toy drive for needy children and families. Visitors are asked to bring an unwrapped toy or non-perishable food item and put it in Santa’s sleigh. All of the donations will be given to The Pinellas Sheriff’s Police Athletic League to help families over the holidays. Winter Wonderland will be open every day from 6pm to 9pm through December 22nd, except on Mondays and Tuesdays. Admission is free but there is a small charge for some activities and the food items in

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usch Gardens Tampa Bay’s annual holiday tradition, Christmas Town, beams bright with twinkling lights, shows, holiday shopping and a visit to Santa’s House. New this year, guests can enjoy millions of twinkling lights, Christmas shows and Sing-A-Long Train, and visits with Santa and Rudolph - now EVERY DAY of the season. New this year at Dragon Fire Grill is the holiday spectacular “Christmas Is...” featuring contemporary music that celebrates seasonal traditions. Brunch with Santa is a Christmas-themed dining experience that’s perfect for the entire family. Adults can enjoy unlimited mimosas or “build your own

Bloody Mary” upgrades, and everyone can delight in a menu bursting with delicious holiday delicacies. In the Christmas Town Village, celebrate the season in a new location. Greeted by friendly snowmen, guests will be immersed in festive fun along the Gwazi pathway, including merry merchandise and tasty holiday treats. In this enchanting realm, little ones can even take a ride on the fan-favorite Jingle Bell Express miniature train. Indulge in winter whiskey and wine tastings while completing your holiday shopping with unique gifts from artisans around the world at the Artisan Market at Xcursions and around the park. www.ChristmasTown.com

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HOLIDAY EVENTS the Hot Chocolate Shop (cash-only transactions). www.ccvfl.org. HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM 37th ANNUAL VICTORIAN CHRISTMAS STROLL Sat, Dec 1 through Sun, Dec 23 – Experience the extravagance and grandeur of a Victorian Christmas at the Henry B. Plant Museum’s 37th Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll. Allowing visitors a glimpse into the magic of Christmas past. With a different theme in every exhibit room, there is sure to be something for everyone. We are proud to offer an interactive sensory tree activity for visitors with sensory disabilities. Look closely in exhibit cases and you will find snow babies and tiny antique trees. Travel back to the 1890s with a Christmas display worthy of the 1890s Tampa Bay Hotel. Gaze in wonder at exotic handmade Temari balls, a timeless Japanese craft. Other decorations include a replica Plant System train, vintage fashions, antique toys, locally sourced items, and fanciful ornaments. Complimentary cider and cookies will be served on the veranda each day while holiday music floats through the air. Guests can enjoy live music each evening from

6 pm – 8 pm. 10 am – 8 pm, $. Henry Plant Museum, 401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. 813.254.1891 www.plantmuseum.com

CELTIC ANGELS CHRISTMAS - Feb 2. Celtic Angels Christmas captivate audiences of all ages with the magic of Christmas in a show which encompasses vocal and instrumental seasonal and Irish favorites along with world class champion Irish dancing. Experience Celtic Christmas songs including “Christmas in Killarney,” “The Wexford Carol,” and “Once Upon A Time In Ireland” sung in Gaelic. Christmas classics will include “It Came Upon The Midnight Clear”, “O Holy Night” and more. Capitol Theatre, 727-

791-7400. 405 Cleveland St, Clearwater, FL CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER EVENTS: Dec 2 at 4 p.m. - THE CARROLLWOOD WINDS will perform a program of holiday music in this annual event. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road in Tampa. (813) 922-8167. www.CarrollwoodCenter.org. Dec 8 at 8 a.m. - THE INAUGURAL RUN RUN RUDOLPH 5K & FAMILY FUN RUN will benefit the tuition assistance program at the Carrolwood Cultural Center. The race will be a Christmas-themed course through the new park and is open to first time and competitive runners. A 1 Mile Fun Run will take place immediately after the 5K. Runners are invited to wear Christmas bells, red noses, antlers and other holiday paraphernalia. Carrollwood Village Park, 4680 W. Village Drive in Tampa. www.racehawk.com SNOWFEST - Sat, Dec 2.

10:30 am – 3 pm, $5, North Straub Park, 400 Bay Shore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Activities include a big and kiddie toboggan slide, art tent, karaoke, moonwalk, giant slide, giant slide and a Kiddyland area designed especially for preschoolers with inflatable train. www.stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents 12

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LIGHT UP THE NIGHT - Mon, Dec 3. 7 pm, Free, Clymer Park, Gulfport Blvd. S, Gulfport. City of Gulfport holiday tree lighting. Music, light refreshments sing-along, Santa visits. 727.893.1118 www.visitgulfportflorida.com SUNDIAL ST. PETE MENORAH LIGHTING CELEBRATION - Mon, Dec 3. 5 – 8 pm, Free, Sundial, 153 2nd Ave. N, St. Petersburg. Rabbi Alter Korf of the Chabad Jewish Center presides over the lighting of the area’s largest menorah to celebrate Hanukkah, along with traditional foods from Locale Market, a line-up of world-class performers and activities for every member of the family. 727.800.3201 www.sundialstpete.com

ceremony. The hotel will feature holiday-themed events and offerings throughout the entire month of December including the grand opening of Winterland, Pets in Winterland, Sunday Dinner with the Grinch, Ugly Sweater Party, Toy Drive, Christmas Caroloke, Christmas Eve Dinner with Mrs. Claus, Christmas Day Buffet, and an eggnog and hot chocolate bar for adults and children. Winterland will also feature a giant snowman, Grinch’s Cave, larger than life 12’ x 12’ wrapped presents, a melted snowman, and four

themed immersive photo ops with Instagramable areas for all ages to enjoy. www.winterlandtampa.com/ HOLIDAYS AT THE VILLAGE Dec 5 - Jan 6. Enjoy holiday decorations, garland and greenery throughout Heritage Village. 10 am – 4 pm Wed through Sat 1 – 4 pm Sun, Free, Heritage Village, 11909 125th St N, Largo. 727.582.2123. www.pinellascounty.org/heritage SUNKEN GARDENS FOREVER FOUNDATION’S 3RD ANNUAL JINGLE MINGLE - Dec 6. From Continued

MRS. SANTA LUNCHEON & FASHION SHOW - Wed, Dec 5. 11:30 am, $. The Club at Treasure Island, 400 Treasure Island Causeway, Treasure Island. Relax and enjoy the beauty and spirit of the season. Benefits Johns Hopkins All Children’s Hospital. Contact Judy Keyak jkeyak@tampabay.rr.com THE GODFREY HOTEL & CABANAS TAMPA PRESENTS “WINTERLAND”, A HOLIDAY POP-UP BAR - Dec 5 - 31 This holiday season, The Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas Tampa presents: “Winterland”, a winter wonderland pop-up bar on the bay. The month-long experience will be the resort’s inaugural holiday event and will open on Dec 5 with a grand lighting of Winterland www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

HOLIDAY EVENTS 6:00pm to 8:30 pm, the Sunken Gardens Forever Foundation will host its 3rd Annual “Jingle Mingle”, at beautiful Sunken Gardens. Twinkle lights, holiday music by the St. Pete High ‘Pitchforks’ and soft jazz renditions of holiday favorites by Henry Ashwood promise a lovely beginning to the Season. Complimentary wine, beer, and hors d’oeuvres will be served in the festively decorated Oak Pavilion. Tickets at $50 each are available on their Facebook page: Sunken Gardens Forever, or at Sunken Gardens. “Jingle Mingle” revenue will help fund the new Children’s Educational Garden, teach-

ing children about sources of the food they eat, amid an array of interactive activities. 1825 4th Street North, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. BAY VOICES ENSEMBLE - Thurs, Dec 6. 6 pm, Free, Dalí Museum, One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. The Tampa Bay male vocal ensemble under the direction of Stephen Allen will perform songs of the season on the steps of the Museum’s helical stairway. 727.823.3767 www. thedali.org CHRISTMAS MOVIE NIGHT AT THE VINOY - Dec 6, 13, 20, 27

Entry is free and food and drink tickets can be purchased at the door. Prior to the movie, guests are invited to play yard games such as Cornhole, Yardzee and Jenga starting at 6:30 PM. Each movie will begin at 7:00 PM. The evening’s festivities will take place on the event lawn adjacent to the restaurant. Special seasonal concessions will be served during each movie night along with themed signature cocktails. Guests are encouraged to don their favorite holiday apparel or dress up like one of their favorite characters from that evening’s movie. Dec 6 - “Home Alone” Dec 13 - “The Grinch” Dec 20 - “Elf” Dec 27 - “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” The Vinoy Renaissance St. Petersburg Resort & Golf Club. 501 5th Avenue NE, St. Petersburg, Florida 33701.

BOAT PARADE AND WINTER FESTIVAL IN THE PARK - Fri, Dec 7. 6 pm, Free, Horan Park, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. Boat Parade Viewing Party to include live music, art projects for children, and a special visit from Santa! www.spbrec.com/special-events Continued 14

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HOLIDAY EVENTS DEATH BY CHOCOLATE - Fri, Dec 7. 7 pm, $, Central Park Performing Arts Center, 105 Central Park Dr., Largo. This chocolate “heaven” will tempt your taste buds while holiday music fills the air. 100% of the proceeds raised by this event benefit and support local youth programs. 727.587.6793 www.largoarts.com

a holiday movie. It’s sure to be a fun evening for the entire family. The Christmas Story. 7 pm, Free, Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. www.stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents

HOLIDAY MOVIES IN THE PARK – THE CHRISTMAS STORY - Fri, Dec 7. 7 pm, Free, Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and settle in for a holiday movie. It’s sure to be a fun evening for the entire family. www.stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents SILVER BELLS LUNCHEON - Fri, Dec 7. 11 am, $100, St. Petersburg Yacht Club, 11 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Enjoy a “Holiday Extravaganza” including a sumptuous luncheon, entertainment by Maestro Mark Sforzini and members of the St. Petersburg Opera, plus a fabulous silent auction. Ursula Carroll 727.367.9289 HOLIDAY MOVIES IN THE PARK - Dec 7 Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and settle in for

HOLIDAY MOVIE DOUBLE FEATURE ON THE BEACH - Dec 7. Enjoy two Christmas classics, How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Home Alone. Chairs available for reservation 727.612.3090. Food and drink specials at The Old Snack Shack, Madeira Beach. 6:30 – 9:30 pm, Free, Archibald Park, 15100 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach. facebook.com/ events/351119459028614/?active_tab=about LARGO NORTH POLE EXPRESS - Dec 7 - 9. Families are invited to take a magical journey to the North Pole aboard the Largo Central Railroad. This great new event is three nights only on December 7-9 in the festive Largo Central Park. During this 90 minute journey through two million LED lights, passengers will visit Santa’s North Pole Workshop, where his elves are working to create holiday crafts, serve delicious snacks and arrange a special story time visit with Mrs. Claus. Passengers will write a letter to Santa and finally meet with “the man” himself, who has a holiday keepsake gift for every participant. Tickets are limited and advanced reservations are required. All proceeds will benefit the Largo Central Railroad, to keep the free monthly trains rides running all year long. (727)587-6720, www.LargoEvents.com 16

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CHRISTMAS WITH THE MASTER CHORALE - Dec 7 & 9. Nothing captures the holiday spirit more than being surrounded by candlelight and listening to a choir sing traditional favorites. From the original chant melody that inspired “O Come, All Ye Faithful” to the music of Irving Berlin, the singers of The Master Chorale, along with guests from Lumina Youth Choirs and a host of instrumentalists, will treat audiences to a special evening of sacred and secular tunes that are sure to warm hearts and spread holiday cheer. First Presbyterian Church, 701 Beach Drive NE, St Petersburg. www.masterchorale. com THE WINTER WONDERETTES AT STAGEWORKS - Dec 7 - 23. The Wonderettes are back. This seasonal celebration finds the girls entertaining at the annual Harper’s Hardware Holiday Party. When Santa turns up missing, the girls use their talent and creative ingenuity to save the holiday party! Featuring great ’60s versions of holiday

classics such as “Santa Claus Is Comin’ to Town,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” “Run, Rudolph, Run,” and “Winter Wonderland,” the result is, of course, marvelous! This energetic and glittering holiday package is guaranteed to delight audiences of all ages. 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., #151, Tampa, FL 33602. www. stageworkstheatre.org

CHRISTMAS PARADE AND SANTA’S VISIT TO WHOVILLE - Sat, Dec 8. 11 am, Free, St. Pete Beach. Starts at City Hall, 155 Corey Ave. and heads west down Corey Ave., south on Blind Pass Rd., east on 73rd to Bay St. and back to City Hall. Art projects,

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a movie and a special visit from Santa at the end of the parade. Best parade viewing areas will be along Corey Ave. Parking will be available at the Community Center. www.spbrec.com/special-events 10th ANNUAL HOOPLA!

HOLIDAY

Dec 8. 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. 3101 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707. The 10th Annual Holiday Hoopla is a celebration of arts, crafts, foods, holiday music and roving holiday characters set in a waterfront atmosphere. The festival will provide shoppers with one-of-a-kind gifts from small businesses, and all of your holiday shopping can be done Continued

HOLIDAY EVENTS in one place. New this year, organizers have added a “Weird Wheels” component. Weird Wheels, is open to any decorated wheeled vehicle, regardless of the number of wheels, powered or unpowered, but must be capable of transporting at least one person. Judges who will decide the top 3 winners in 2 categories: Best In Show & Most Original. First, second and third place trophies will be awarded and paper ballots will be available to the public to vote on their favorite. A Peoples Choice trophy will be awarded to whoever garners the most votes. Catch the

Beach Bums Volley Ball Tournament and then stay late to view Boca Ciega Yacht Club’s 32nd Annual Lighted Boat Parade. 727322-5217. www.VisitGulfportFlorida.com

nicipal Marina, heads to Williams Pier, Town Shores, Kipps Colony, Pasadena Yacht & Country Club, Pasadena Golf Club Estates and Isla del Sol. www.sailbcyc.org/ ChristmasBoatParade

BOCA CIEGA YACHT CLUB LIGHTED CHRISTMAS BOAT PARADE - Sat, Dec 8. Each year, BCYC members and members of the general public come together to spread holiday joy by decking the hulls and heading out on Boca Ciega Bay to parade . 6 pm, Free viewing, Starts at the Gulfport MuMADEIRA BEACH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS ILLUMINATED BOAT PARADE - Sat, Dec 8. 6:30, Free viewing, Starts at ROC Park and heads down the Intracoastal Waterway to John’s Pass Village & Boardwalk. www.islandneighborschamber.org PINELLAS PARK CHRISTMAS PARADE - Sat, Dec 8. 6 pm, Free, Starts at 58th St. and proceeds eastbound on Park Blvd. to The Shoppes at Park Place. This annual event rich in Christmas tradition is the perfect way to bring holiday cheer. Watch as festive floats parade down the streets of Pinellas Park. www.celebratepinellaspark. com/pinellas-park-holiday-parade A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION 2018 - Dec 8. The Tampa Bay Heralds of Harmony present “A Christmas Celebration 2018.” USF School of Music Concert Hall, Tampa Campus. $. (813) 5305224. Preferred Seating includes a special Pre-show. USF School of Music Concert Hall, 3755 USF West Holly Drive, Tampa, FL. SNOW ON 7TH PARADE Dec 8. Ybor Collaborative is hosting its 8th Annual Snow on 7th

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Parade featuring 15+ local high school Marching Bands under a sky of snow. Join Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn and Santa Claus for this FREE family friendly event. The pre-show will feature local children’s dance groups talent to get visitors into the holiday spirit. The Tampa Bay Pride Band will usher in the official start of the parade with Mayor Bob Buckhorn in the lead and the snow will begin to flow from the rooftops like magic in Florida. Marching bands from all over Hillsborough County will continue the holiday cheer with other special guests included. Santa and Mrs. Claus will signal the finale of this special holiday tradition. Pre-Show will begin at 6pm, Parade 7pm. 813-248-3712. Ybor City Chamber of Commerce, 1800 E 9th Ave, Tampa, FL. www.facebook.com/ events/148118072446284/

Marys. Bring a new unwrapped toy or food to help fill the Red Sled for Foster Care Kids. THE WESTCHASE HOLIDAY MARKET - Dec 9. Be a part of a community event from 10AM until 5PM at the Westchase Golf Club. Shopping, food, music, face painting, Santa, and incredible raffles. All proceeds from special raffles and silent auctions will be donated directly to Autism Speaks. Ring in the holiday season. 10am5pm. 910-200-2472. www.westchaseholidaymarket.com. CHRISTMAS WITH MICHAEL W. SMITH - Dec 10.

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HISTORIC OLD NORTHEAST CANDLELIGHT TOUR OF HOMES - Sun, Dec 9. 3 – 8 pm, Historic Old Northeast, St. Petersburg. Tour eight beautiful and distinctive homes. Stroll the brick streets, take in the festive decorations, home renovations and perhaps even pick up some decorating ideas. Proceeds benefit neighborhood improvements. www.honna. org

ROBBY’S PANCAKE BREAKFAST - Sun, Dec 9. 8 am – noon, $5, Treasure Island Community Center, 154 106th Ave., Treasure Island. Pancakes, sausage patties, coffee & tea, juice. $5 Bloody www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

HOLIDAY EVENTS artist Michael W. Smith returns to Clearwater with an evening of Christmas joy for his Capitol Theatre debut with very special guest Melinda Doolittle. 8 pm, $, Capitol Theatre, 405 Cleveland Street, Clearwater. 727.791.7400 www.rutheckerdhall.com/capitol-theatre HOLIDAY LIGHTS NEIGHBORHOOD BICYCLE TOUR - Dec 11. Visit several of ‘Burg’s historic neighborhoods, making stops to look at the holiday lights/ decorations as well as to hear a bit about neighborhood history. At the end of the ride, enjoy some refreshments on the verandah of the Elwyn home. 727.824.7802 6 – 8:30 pm. $. 836 16th Ave. NE, St. Petersburg. www.preservetheburg.org

BOLEY CENTERS’ 36TH ANNUAL JINGLE BELL RUN - Fri, Dec 14. 7:30 – 9 pm, $. Albert Whitted Park, 480 Bayshore Dr. SE, St. Petersburg. A 3-mile event that will feature 1,500 luminarias, 15 bands, three glow zones, snow, glow in the dark face paint, glow necklaces and thousands of merry runners, joggers, walkers and four-legged trotters. Participation supports housing for individuals and families who have been chronically homeless. runsignup.com/Race/FL/SaintPetersburg/BoleyCentersJingleBellRun HOLIDAY MOVIES IN THE PARK – THE SANTA CLAUSE - Fri, Dec 14. 7 pm, Free, Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and settle in for a holiday movie. It’s sure to be a fun evening for the entire family. stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE - Dec 14. Celebrate the holidays with Keep Pinellas Beautiful. Food and refreshments will be provided. 8:30 AM - 11:30 AM. R.S.V.P to Megan Jackson at mjackson@kpbcares.org or 727-533-0402. Keep Pinellas Beautiful, 5090 66th St N, St Petersburg, FL.

NEW HORIZONS BAND HOLIDAY CONCERT Dec 11. Celebrate the season. The New Horizons Band will be playing familiar holiday tunes plus pop hits. 7 pm, Free, Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S, Gulfport. 727.893.1070. www.mygulfport.us A CLASSIC CROSLEY CHRISTMAS AT POWEL CROSLEY THEATER - Dec 11-14, 18-21. Experience the warmth and joy of the holidays with A Classic Crosley Christmas – while immersing themselves in the historic glamour of the estate – as they move from room to room to experience the festive evening of theater, traditional carols and tales. This year’s shows includes multiple vignettes: The Gift of the Magi, Belle’s Story, and A Visit from Saint Nick. Following the shows, guests will join the theater groups’ talented cast in an interactive version of A Christmas Carol. 7:30pm. www.bradentongulfislands.com/crosley-theater BOLEY ANGELS JINGLE & MINGLE HOLIDAY BRUNCH - Wed, Dec 12. 10:30 am, $, Club at Treasure Island, 400 Treasure Island Causeway, Teasure Island. A great opportunity to mix, mingle, jingle and bid on items to support the Boley Angels. Kathryn Juarez 727.821.4810 x 5724 20

TREASURE ISLAND’S HOLIDAY LIGHTED BOAT PARADE - Fri, Dec 14. 6:20 – 8:15 pm, Free viewing, departs from The Club at Treasure Island and ends at John’s Pass. Dazzlingly decorated boats circle the city. mytreasureisland.org OYSTER BAR’S ‘MINGLE & JINGLE’ BENEFITING CASA - Dec 14.

The Oyster Bar St Pete, located in downtown St. Pete, is hosting a “Jingle & Mingle” holiday party in partnership with CASA. 6:00pm - 9:00pm. Proceeds from the event will benefit CASA, a local charity organization in St. Pete. The Jingle & Mingle will feature complimentary bites, Candy Cane cocktails, a 50/50 raffle, raffle prizes donated by the local community, and more. Admission for the Jingle & Mingle is free to the public. There will also be a “Bad Santa” after party bash

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at The Crafty Squirrel located next door to The Oyster Bar. 249 Central Ave, St Petersburg, FL 33701. 727897-9728. www.facebook.com/events/567898256985148/ CHRISTMAS CAROLS BY THE PITCHFORKS - Dec 14. The St. Petersburg High School acapella group “Pitchforks” will regale you with sounds of the season. Refreshments provided by the Friends of the Library. 727.363.9238 3 – 4 pm, Free, St. Pete Beach Public Library, 365 73rd Ave., St. Pete Beach. www.spblibrary.com

SENIOR EXCURSION TO HOLIDAY LIGHTS IN THE GARDENS - Dec 15. Delight in the shimmering lights, holiday entertainment, beautiful flora and warmth of the season. Pre-registration required. 4:30 – 9:30 pm, $ Bus transportation only, departs from Community Center, 7701 Boca Ciega Dr., St. Pete Beach. 727.363.9245 THE GREAT GATSBY CHRISTMAS FUNDRAISING COCKTAIL PARTY - Dec 15.

JOLLY JAM - Dec 14. Reserve your spot now for Jolly Jam from 3:30-7:00 pm for a fun filled holiday party! Festivities include: games and activities, treats, a moon bounce, our famous Bubble Dance Party and pictures with Santa. 3:30 PM - 7 PM. 727-877-5299. Romp n’ Roll St. Petersburg, 2534 22nd Ave. N, St Petersburg, FL AN OLD FLORIDA CHRISTMAS - Sat, Dec 15.

InterOcean Univerisity from 6:45 PM to 10:15 PM: The Great Gatsby Christmas Fundraising Cocktail Party with a 1920 Theme. The party will be held at The Hip Room Dance Studio located at 1701 North Franklin Street, Tampa, Florida. 813-327-9638. 6:45 PM - 10:15 PM. (813) 327-9638. The Hip Room Dance Studio, 1701 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL. www.interoceanuniversity@gmail.com

11 am – 4 pm. Manatee Village Historical Park, 1404 Manatee Ave. E (SR 64), Bradenton. Family-friendly entertainment including musical performances, makeand-take seasonal crafts, heritage artisans, food vendors, and vintage silent holiday films – something to delight every age. $5. www.manateevillage.org

LET IT SNOW - Dec 15. Santa, kids’ snow slide (additional cost), lighted motorcyces at 7:45, holiday gift market with more than 60 local merchants, holiday characters, children’s crafts and fun Christmas photo ops. 6:30 – 9 pm, Free, Largo Central Park, 101 Central Park Dr., Largo. www.playlargo.com/special_events.php

93.3 FLZ JINGLE BALL 2018 - Sat, Dec 15. 7 pm, $, Amalie Arena, 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. Annual holiday concert. All-star performers will include Shawn Mendes, Marshmello, Khalid, NF, Bebe Rexha, Bazzi and Sabrina Carpenter. 813.301.6500 www.amaliearena.com SANTA SLAM TOY DRIVE & COMMUNITY WORKOUT - Dec 15. This annual event is available to the public via cash or toy donation. 8 AM - 11 AM. 727-4693240. CrossFit 9, 2727 6th Avenue South, St Petersburg, FL. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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HOLIDAY EVENTS WREATHS ACROSS AMERICA - Dec 15. The American Legion Post 5 Families wish to extend to you an invite to take part in one of the largest simultaneous events in the country. The local veterans’ cemetery on Kennedy Boulevard has 730 gravesites. Our goal is to place a wreath on every grave marker. We need YOUR help to accomplish this goal. The beauty of the red bowed wreaths is a sign that our community remembers those that have served our country. Sponsorships are $15 for each wreath. The American Legion Cemetery, 3810 West Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. 12 PM - 12:30 PM. 813-870-0505. www.post5tampa.org/WreathsAcrossAmerica.html A VERY MISFORTUNATE CHRISTMAS - Dec 15 & 22. A holiday romp that will leave you gasping for breath, sniffing the soup, and wondering who will win the mysterious present under the tree. Once again with inappropriate comments, misheard names, moments of deep suspicion, and of course, shadow puppets. 8 pm, $, Spitfire Theater, 14 18th St. S, St. Petersburg. www.spitfiretheater.com

PASADENA COMMUNITY CHURCH ANNUAL CHRISTMAS CONCERT – ‘TIS THE SEASON - Dec 16. Usher in the season with a beautiful reminder of the “reason for the season.” Choir, camerata, instruments and narrators celebrate the Christmas story with carols and songs of the season. 727.381.2499. 7 pm, Free, Pasadena Community Church, 227 70th St. S, St. Petersburg. www.pasadenacommunitychurch.org/ministries/music-performing-arts/

ST. PETERSBURG HOLIDAY OF THE ARTS - Sat, Dec 15 and Sun, Dec 16. 10 am – 5 pm, Free, South Straub Park, 198 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Artisans from across Florida and throughout the United States journey to St. Petersburg to create an outdoor gallery comprised of the most beautiful and stunning original and handmade art. www.paragonartevents. com/S-82-St.+Petersburg+Holiday+of+the+Arts.html

SUNCOAST JAZZ SOCIETY CHRISTMAS DINNER AND DANCE - Dec 16. Christmas concert featuring the Terry Meyers Quartet. Dinner catered by Banquet Masters. Reservations: 727.215.2938. 6 pm, $, Cove Cay Country Clubhouse, 1949 Cove Cay Dr., Clearwater. www.azzreservations@aol.com

GINGERBREAD VILLAGE AT THE GLAZER MUSEUM - Dec 15 - 30. Celebrate the holidays as the Museum transforms into a gingerbread wonderland. Build your own sweet design with festive materials and decorations, and add it to a cardboard gingerbread house. 10 am – 5 pm Mon - Fri/10am – 6 pm Sat/1 – 6 pm Sun, Activity included with general admission. Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. www.glazermuseum.org

MATINEE OPERA PLAYERS: THE HOLIDAY EXTRAVAGANZA - Dec 16 The St. Petersburg Ballet Company will open the show with scenes from the Nutcracker. Listen to traditional holiday songs like White Christmas, Silent Night and other favorites. Family-friendly, complimentary snacks at intermission, raffles, door prizes, and plenty of free parking. 3 – 5:30 pm, Donations accepted, Pinellas Park Performing Arts Center, 4951 78th Ave. N, Pinellas Park. 727.204.4163 www.MatineeOperaPlayers.org

CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY PRESENTS WONDERLAND - Sun, Dec 16. 7 pm, $, USF Yuengling Center, 4202 E Fowler Ave., Tampa. This show blends the spellbinding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with the sensory majesty of a symphony orchestra performing the greatest holiday music of all time. 800.745.3000 www.yuenglingcenter.com

NUTCRACKER TEA - Dec 16. Join ballet dancers from Next Generation Ballet for high tea as they perform scenes from Nutcracker. There will be a ballet workshop with the performers, photo opportunities, hot tea and light food. 11:30 am – 1 pm, $, Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. www.glazermuseum.org Continued

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Winterland & Pop-Up Bar WTR at The Godfrey

Photos by Melissa W. Martino

he Godfrey Hotel & Cabanas Tampa presents “Winterland,” which has taken over the popular WTR Pool and Grill. Some cabanas are totally decked out in various holiday themes, and there are even “ice floes” in the pool. Winterland features Family Photo & Dinner with the Grinch, where families can enjoy a dinner buffet with a holiday menu, cookie decorating station for kids, hot chocolate and eggnog bar, a giant snowman, and free family photo ops with the Grinch. Admission into Winterland is free to the public on weekdays with the exception of private events and is family-friendly until 10pm, and after 10pm is 21 and up holiday fun seven days a week. 7700 W Courtney Campbell Causeway Tampa, FL 33607, 813-281-0566.

www.winterlandtampa.com

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HOLIDAY EVENTS HOLIDAY ARTS + CRAFTS BAZAAR - Dec 20 Enjoy the seasonal ambiance & holiday music. Melting clock and mustache ornaments from the Museum Store will be available for purchase, as well as the unique paintings, pottery, photography, jewelry, books, glassware and fabric arts & crafts created by in-house artists, artisans and makers. 4 – 6 pm, Free, Dalí Museum, One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg. 727.823.3767. www.thedali.org

the most wonderful time of the year from Thanksgiving to Chanukah, Christmas and New Year’s. Audiences of all ages will be mesmerized for 2 hours and marvel at soaring acrobatics, gravity defying feats and extravagant theatrical production numbers the Boston Globe hails “Entrancing … Las Vegas meets family entertainment.” www.themahaffey.com/show/Cirque-Dreams-Holidaze/366 FIRST NIGHT ST. PETE - Dec 31

HOLIDAY MOVIES IN THE PARK – SANTA PAWS - Fri, Dec 21. 7 pm, Free, Vinoy Park, 701 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. Bring your blanket or lawn chairs and settle in for a holiday movie. It’s sure to be a fun evening for the entire family. www.stpeteparksrec.org/holidayevents TAMPA THEATRE NYE WRAP PARTY - Dec 31. The annual NYE Wrap Party is going to be groovy, baby (yeah!) as Tampa Theatre goes shagadelic on Monday, Dec. 31, from 9:00pm until 1:00am. Join Dr. Evil and Mr. Bigglesworth for heavy hors d’oeuvres and desserts, live music and dancing, the ball drop LIVE on the big screen at midnight, and an open beer-and-wine bar all night long… all for “one meeeeellion dollars.” (Just kidding! Tickets are only $99 for general admission and $89 for Theatre Members). Austin Powers-themed signature themed cocktails (Mini-Me-mosas, anyone?) and a cash liquor bar will also be available. www.tampatheatre.org/annual-event/nye-wrap-party/

First Night St Pete is ringing in it’s 26th Anniversary Celebration of the Arts with a new take on this traditional community driven arts event. This year’s First Night team has put together an amazing program with eight hours of music, interactive art, puppetry, aerial arts, fire jugglers, spoken word, scavenger hunts and so much more. This year even “Elvis” with Cottondale Swamp will be in the building. First Night St. Pete brings the City of St Petersburg a genuine community experience at over 10 venues ranging from musical performances, dance, theatre, comedy, and interactive art installations. This year’s Fireworks are presented by 400 Beach Seafood and Tap House, Parkshore Grille and the Annex. First Night St Pete is held from 4:00 p.m. until Midnight and it is by far fun for ALL AGES. www.firstnightstpete.com/ SWINGING NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE COLISEUM - Dec 31.

CIRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE - Mahaffey - Dec 29-30. Cirque Dreams Holidaze lights up the 2018 season with the must-see holiday show The New York Daily News proclaims a “delicious confection of charm, sparkle and talent by the sleigh load and so full of energy it could end our dependence on oil.” Created by Cirque Dreams Founder and Broadway Director Neil Goldberg, Cirque Dreams Holidaze is a new cirque adventure, Broadway musical and family holiday spectacular wrapped in one. The show features over 300 imaginative costumes, 20 world-class acts, fine singers, original music and seasonal favorites celebrating 24

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Grand New Year’s Eve celebration for all ages featuring live music by Gloria West & the Gents. Live Music , Dancing and Celebration, 9pm-1am. Swing Dance Lesson: 8-9pm (no partners needed) Doors Open 7:30pm. Midnight Countdown and balloon drop. Dance performances, photo booth, Party Favors, Noisemakers, Chocolates, Prizes, Full Cash Bar w/ Champagne Bottles & Toasts Available. Smoke-Free, Free Parking. Dress to Impress. New Year’s & Vintage Attire Encouraged. 813-220-3911 or 813-579-4645. www.NewYearSwing.com 2018 NEW YEAR’S EVE GALA - Dec 31 Music, dancing, full cash bar, gourmet dessert, party favors, a champagne toast at midnight, a free 4x6 photo and an unlimited amount of salty popcorn for your snacking pleasure. 727.239.5280. 8 pm – 1 am, $, Gulfport Casino, 5500 Shore Blvd. S, Gulfport. www. facebook.com/events/1863695976981091

NEW YEAR’S AT NOON - Dec 31 Ring in the New Year starting with a dance party, craft your own festive hat, enjoy sparkling juice and tasty treats but most of importantly watch more than 1000 balloons drop at noon as you celebrate the New Year. 10 am – 2 pm, $, Great Explorations Children’s Museum, 1925 4th St. N, St. Petersburg. 727.821.8992. www.greatex.org

NEW YEAR’S EVE AT SELBY GARDENS - Dec 31 A black-tie event featuring a private journey through tropical holiday light displays, passed hors d’oeuvres, a seated four course dinner, live entertainment and dancing, a champagne toast and a perfect view of fireworks overlooking the Sarasota Bay. 941.366.5731 8 pm – 1 am, $, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, 900 S Palm Ave., Sarasota. www.selby.org

TOAST BY THE COAST - Dec 31 Featuring two live bands (Motel Funk and The Railway Kings), photo booth, champagne toast and balloon drop at midnight, party favors, extensive hors d’ oeuvres buffet, chef’s carvery and pasta bar and decadent dessert table. 727.363.2258. 8 pm – 1 am, $, Tradewinds Island Resort, 600 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. www. tradewindsresort.com/index

NYE@MFA - Dec 31 Dinner includes open bar, special seated dinner with piano bar and American songbook cabaret performance and access to special exhibitions Party includes open bar, desserts, savory bites, dancing to music access to the special exhibitions and midnight champagne toasts while watching First Night St. Pete fireworks. 7:30 pm – 1 am, $, Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Drive. NE, St. Petersburg. 727.894.4638. www.mfastpete.org

The Staff at

Accent On Tampa Bay Magazine Wishes you all a

Very Joyous Holiday Season & A Happy and Prosperous New Year!

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Cirque du Soleil

CRYSTAL A Breakthrough Ice Experience! At Amalie Arena Dec 19 - 23

irque du Soleil returns to the Tampa area with Cirque du Soleilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CRYSTAL. This unique arena production showcases synchronized and freestyle ice skating alongside circus disciplines such as swinging trapeze, hand balancing on chairs and hand to hand. CRYSTAL will perform at the Amalie Arena from Wednesday, December 19 through 23 for 7 shows. Watch world-class ice skaters and acrobats explore their new frozen playground with fluidity with never-before-seen acrobatics. Cirque du Soleilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s CRYSTAL fuses circus arts and the world of ice skating in a stunning new production that will take the audience on a journey into a surreal world where figure skating blends with acrobatics and aerial feats. Directed by Shana Carroll and Sebastien Soldevila, Crystal, our misfit heroine, takes you on an exhilarating tale of self-discovery as she dives into a world of her own imagination. Feel the adrenaline as she soars through this surreal world to become what she was always destined to be: confident, liberated, and empowered. CRYSTAL invites you to suspend reality and glide into a world that springs to colorful life with astounding visual projections and a soundtrack that seamlessly blends popular music with the signature sound of Cirque du Soleil. CRYSTAL is suitable for all ages.

www.cirquedusoleil.com/crystal or call1-877-9CIRQUE (1-877-924-7783) 26

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LOCAL FOCUS EVENTS DECEMBER Dec 1

2ND ANNUAL STACHE BASH OF TAMPA BAY, A BENEFIT FOR MOVEMBER. For the 2nd year, the Tampa Bay Krewe Rugby Football Club (RFC) will be hosting Stache Bash of Tampa Bay. A celebratory fundraiser with food, drink and raffle items, with all proceeds going to Movember. Movember is responsible for the sprouting of mustaches (Mo) on thousands of men’s faces, in the US and around the world. With their Mo’s, these men raise vital awareness and funds for men’s health issues, specifically prostate and testicular cancer initiatives. Movember is the global men’s health charity encouraging men to grow and women to support the Mo (mustache) for the 30 days of November. Through the power of the mustache, awareness and funds are raised for men’s health to combat prostate and testicular cancer. Since 2003, support from over 5 million people, have raised over $710 million for the cause, with official Movember campaigns taking place in over 21 countries. 6 PM – 9 PM. $. MacDinton’s Irish Pub & Restaurant SoHo, 405 S Howard Ave, Tampa, FL 33606.

ST. PETE MAD DOGS 25TH ANNUAL ANNIVERSARY PARTY. A gathering of all triathletes both young and old and where newbies and veterans get together once a year to celebrate, have fun and reminisce. Appetizers and snacks provided. Food, beverages, music and fun for all. 2 – 6 pm, Free, Caddy’s on Central, 217 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. www.facebook.com/ events/2150740521831054/?active_tab=about 4TH ANNUAL KING & QUEEN OF THE BAY RACE. Fun for the whole family. Urban Kai & The Getaway are hosting the 4th Annual King & Queen 28

of the Bay Paddle Race, a WPA Region 5 sanctioned points event. The Bay area boasts incredible paddling waters, lots of wildlife and a variety of conditions to challenge a paddler. The following 3 races take place Sat, Dec 1, 2018 from The Getaway (on Gandy Blvd): LONG RACE (8 miles) and SHORT RACE (3 miles) Kids Race (1/4 mile) Lunch included in registration fee. 7 AM - 2 PM. 813-598-1634. Urban Kai, 13090 Gandy Blvd N., St Petersburg, FL. www.urbankai.com/module/ class.htm?classId=185040

Dec 1-2

ART JONES STUDIO TOUR. Once a year, Gulfport artists show together. See the work of 17 artists in 15 Gulfport, Florida studios. Painters, photographers, ceramicists, fiber artists, sculptors, fashion designers and more. There’s something for every taste and budget. Artists: Irina Lapin, Rob Tillberg, Douglas Merritt, Jane Bunker, Nancy Poucher, Dawn Waters, Wendy Ohlendorf, Crea Egan, Bill Brewer, Angus Macauley, Brenda McMahon, Dorian Angello, Larry Busby, Ray Domingo, Samantha Roberts, Tom Pitzen, Monika Watson. Free. Sat - 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sun - 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Gulfport. www.facebook.com/events/745355715803710

Dec 1-23

PAVA ANNUAL ART EXHIBIT. Features the members’ artwork in a curated collection of visual and functional creations in paint, pastel, wood, ceramics, photography, metal, glass, fiber, mixed media and jewelry. All artwork is for sale. 3 – 8 pm Wednesday through Friday/1 – 8 pm Saturday and Sunday, Free, Creative Pinellas Pinewood Gallery, Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Rd., Largo. www.pava-artists.org/2018-members

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LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

Thru Dec 2

FEAST ON THE BEACH WINE & SEAFOOD FEST.

delicious assortment of side dishes and tantalizing desserts. Listen to the sounds of live musical performances on stage. This year’s performers include on Friday: Mike Tozier (Country, Folk, Delta Blues), Triggerfish (Pop, Rock, Country, Oldies) and the Billy Rice Band (Country Rock). Saturday performances are by: the Sarasota Steel Pan Band (Calypso, Reggae, Latin, Brazilian), Reverend Barry & The Funk (Funk, Soul), the Bob Marley Tribute Band featuring Yvad (Reggae) and the Shindigs (Beach Boys Tribute Band). Performers on Sunday are: Big Night Out (Latin, Funk, Motown, R&B Dance), Kettle of Fish (Rock), the Caribbean Chillers (Beach Boys Tribute Band) and the US Stones (Rolling Stones Tribute Band). During the event, the Humane Society will have their “Big Mac” mobile adoption center onsite. Perhaps you will find a new companion while lending support to a wonderful and compassionate organization. www.seafoodfestivals.com/S-28-Siesta+B each+Seafood+%26+Music+Festival.html

Chicago Cubs manager, Joe Maddon, Bay Area restaurateur, Frank Chivas and the former mayor of Clearwater, Brian Aungst, have teamed up to introduce the first annual Feast on the Beach Wine & Seafood Festival. Grab a glass and bring an appetite to the #1 Beach in The Country where celebrity chefs, local masters and wine connoisseurs will be showcasing their talents. Wine tastings, VIP packages, live entertainment and much more will be held right off the beautiful sugar sand beaches of Clearwater. (727) 593-5536. Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach, 100 Coronado Dr. www.feastonthebeach.com 3rd ANNUAL SIESTA BEACH SEAFOOD & MUSIC FESTIVAL. A marvelous event blending fresh seafood, stellar live musical performances and a marketplace of arts, crafts and select fine products. Friday night from 4pm – 9pm and both Saturday and Sunday from 11 am – 6 pm. $. children 12 and under Free. A VIP Tent is available for a fee that includes: an open bar serving premium drinks and a tented seating area with dedicated service staff and linens on the tables, all with optimal viewing of the live musical performances. A masterful and artistic selection of superlative foods and delicious drinks. Foods are cooked fresh on-site, including meat entrees and vegetarian dishes accompanied by a 30

ST. PETE BEACH COREY AREA CRAFT FESTIVAL. A variety of jewelry, pottery, ceramics, photography, painting, and clothing all handmade in America. An expansive Green Market with plants, orchids, exotic flora, handmade soaps, gourmet spices and freshly popped kettle corn. 10 am – 5 pm, Free, Corey Ave., St. Pete Beach. www.artfestival.com/festivals/st-pete-beach-corey-area-craft-festival-december CRAFTY FEST. This market with an artsy slant includes local arts, Etsy crafters, vintage and retro goods, jewelry and plants. 11 am – 5 pm, Free, Art Pool Galleries, 2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. www.artpoolrules.com

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www.harlemglobetrotters.com

Dec 1 & 4

HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 2019 FAN POWERED WORD TOUR. Committed to bringing fans a great experience in live entertainment, the Harlem Globetrotters will give their fans in Tampa and Lakeland an even greater opportunity to get closer to the team’s stars than ever before during their game at the Yuengling Center on Saturday, Dec. 1 at 3 p.m. and at the RP Funding Center on Tuesday, Dec. 4 at 7 p.m. At each Globetrotters game, there will be over 20 opportunities before, during and after each event for fans to directly interact with the team’s stars. This is the Harlem Globetrotters 93rd consecutive season of touring the world.

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he Florida Strawberry Festival is an 11-day community event celebrating the strawberry harvest of Eastern Hillsborough County. Each year, over 500,000 visitors enjoy the festival’s headline entertainment, youth livestock shows, exhibits of commerce and, of course, its strawberry shortcake. The 2019 Florida Strawberry Festival where “It’s A Hit!” will take place February 28 - March 10 in Plant City, FL. The Florida Strawberry Festival’s lineup of headline entertainment artists performing on the Wish Farms Soundstage at the 2019 event: Thursday, February 28 10:30 am - Jimmy Sturr & Orchestra 3:30 pm - The Oak Ridge Boys 7:30 pm - Alabama

7:30 pm - An Evening with STEVEN TYLER and The Loving Mary Band

Thursday, March 7 10:30 am - The Kingston Trio 3:30 pm - The Letterman 7:30 pm - for King & Country

Friday, March 1 3:30 pm - Willie Nelson 7:30 pm - Brothers Osborne

Friday, March 8 3:30 pm - Tanya Tucker 7:30 pm - Chris Janson

Saturday, March 2 3:30 pm - Home Free 7:30 pm - KOOL & THE GANG

Saturday, March 9 3:30 pm - Florida Strawberry Festival’s Battle of the Bands Finale 7:30 pm - Keith Sweat

Monday, March 4 3:30 pm - Pat Boone 7:30 pm - Martina McBride

Sunday, March 3 3:30 pm - Chicks with Hits featuring Terri Clark, Pam Tillis and Suzy Bogguss

Tuesday, March 5 3:30 pm - The Drifters, Platters & Cornell Gunter’s Coasters 7:30 pm - Needtobreathe

Sunday, March 10 3:30 pm - Bill Anderson & Bobby Bare 7:30 pm - OLD DOMINION’s Make It Sweet Tour

Wednesday, March 6 3:30 pm - Gene Watson 7:30 pm - STYX

For more information, visit www.flstrawberryfestival.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

LOCAL FOCUS

Fri, Dec 7

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7th ANNUAL BOWTIES AND CLUTCHES BENEFITING JOSHUA HOUSE - Dec 7. Bowties & Clutches is an evening for the stylish you and charity. A fun-filled night of high fashion and style on the red carpet celebrating 7 years of giving to Joshua House and the Tampa Bay community. The goal annually is to raise funds to assist with the needs of Joshua House, a safe haven for abused, abandoned and neglected kids. 8:00 PM to 1:00 AM. Red Door No. 5, 1910 N. Florida Ave, Tampa, FL. www.bowtiesandclutches.com/

EOD 2018 GALA. The Pinellas County Urban League’s 2018 Equal Opportunity Day Gala at Sheraton Sand Key Resort from 5:30p.m.-10:30p.m. PCUL is celebrating it’s 41st year of service to the Pinellas County residents and it’s surrounding communities. “Yet, Still We R.I.S.E (Reach, Invest, Serve, Empower) Party with a purpose to help PCUL continue it’s mission of Empowering Communities and Changing Lives. VIP Reception (5:30pm-7pm), Silent Auction (5:30pm - Until designated to close.) Dinner & Program (7:30pm-10:30p.m) Each ticket includes Complimentary Beer & Wine/ Live Entertainment. This is a Formal Affair w/ Black Tie Optional. www.pixel.facebook.com/ events/551467461979147/ KENDRA SCOTT GIVES BACK PARTY. Kendra Scott in Hyde Park Village is hosting an event benefiting Women with Purpose. Enjoy sips, sweets and Jewels - Get a jump on your holiday shopping and help Support a Local Non Profit. (20% of all purchases will be donated to to Women with Purpose). Women with Purpose is a 501(c)3 in the Tampa Bay Area assisting Cancer families with their non-medical financial needs, so they may concentrate on healing and not worry how they will make ends meet. 12 PM - 3 PM. (727) 641-

Fri, Dec 8

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3171. 3141 Shoreline Dr, Clearwater, FL www.womenwithpurposefl.org

2018 BOWTIE BALL HONORING LESTER HOLT AND ARTHUR SULZBERGER. Poynter’s annual Bowtie Ball celebrates significant contributions to journalism and the essential role of a free press in democracy. It’s also a fusion of fashion, fun and community. Lester Holt, a journalist and anchor of “NBC Nightly News with Lester Holt,” will be honored at Poynter’s 2018 Bowtie Ball.

He will receive the Poynter Medal for Lifetime Achievement in Journalism for his award-winning work and contributions to the craft. Also being presented is Arthur Sulzberger Jr., chairman of The New York Times Company and former Times publisher. During his quartercentury as publisher of The Times,

Sulzberger transformed the newspaper into an international, digitalfirst news organization with a global audience of more than 130 million people and 3.5 million paid subscriptions. By attending the Bowtie Ball, you also support the work of The Poynter Institute, a nonprofit school for journalism that teaches over 100,000 journalists from more than 70 countries each year about leadership, ethics, fact-checking, digital tools and local news sustainability. Cocktail attire. Bowties are encouraged. 6:00 PM to 9:30 PM. 727-553-4311. TradeWinds Island

Grand Resort, 5500 Gulf Blvd, St Pete Beach. QUEST FOR THE EMERALD PAW 2018. Teams of up to four will embark on a whirlwind scavenger hunt through the city of St. Petersburg, competing for fun, prizes and the opportunity to help Friends of Strays, a non-profit organization dedicated to the care and adoption of homeless companion animals. 11 am – 4 pm, $, Friends of Strays Animal Shelter, 2911 47th Ave. N, St. Petersburg. www.friendsofstrays.com Continued

petergillisinsurance.com

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LOCAL FOCUS

Thurs, Dec 13

Continued

Dec 8-9

EASY ENTERTAINING AT THE FRESH MARKET. Enjoy seasonal sampling from several departments while learning about the different holiday meal offerings from The Fresh Market. With three fully prepared meal options, The Fresh Market has everything you need to entertain a crowd or more intimate gathering with ease. Stop by to taste both traditional and unique dishes and learn how The Fresh Market makes entertaining easy this holiday season. 12:00-4:00 PM. www.thefreshmarket.com

LGBQ FILM SERIES – DISOBEDIENCE. The film follows a woman as she returns to the community that shunned her decades earlier for an attraction to a childhood friend. Popcorn, candy, bottled water and soda are available. Feel free to bring your own brown bag supper and beverages. 7 pm, Free (donations accepted), Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S, Gulfport. 727.893.1074 www.facebook.com/GulfportLibraryFL

Sat, Dec 22

WESTWARD HO TO HISTORIC KENWOOD WALKING TOUR. Tour participants will experience one of the country’s premier bungalow neighborhoods on a leisurely walk led by resident guides excited to show off their neighborhood. Reservations recommended. 10 am – noon, $. Craftsman House, 2955 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727.824.7802. www.preservetheburg.org

Sun, Dec 9

GOLF TO SUPPORT DANCE AND THE OLDSMAR CARES TOY DRIVE. Tampa Bay Dance Academy Performing Company will be hosting their Annual Golf Tournament at Innisbrook Golf & Spa Resort in Palm Harbor, Florida. TBDA Performing Company will also donate a portion of the money raised, as well as collected non-perishable food and unwrapped toys, to Oldsmar Cares. Funds raised during this event will help send dancers to regional and national dance competitions and conventions and build amazing props for their performances. www.facebook.com/tbdagolf/

Tues, Dec 11

DRAG QUEEN BINGO FOR FRIENDS OF STRAYS. Ten rounds of hilariousness, great food and beverages, a 50/50 raffle and all to help homeless cats and dogs. 727.522.6566. 7 pm, $, Hamburger Mary’s, 2901 Tyrone Blvd. St. Petersburg. www.friendsofstrays.com/home 34

Fri, Dec 28

JOYS OF FRENCH COOKING. Dominique Christini will explain the dishes to be prepared and the techniques to be used, followed by the actual demonstration. Then enjoy a special luncheon, accompanied by a talk about the wine of that particular region. Presented by OLLI at Eckerd College. Pre-registration required. 11:30 am – 1:30 pm, $, Café Largo, 12551 Indian Rocks Rd. Largo. www.eckerd.edu/olli

Sat, Dec 29

NORTH DOWNTOWN & THE OLD NORTHEAST WALKING TOUR. Stroll along the northern edge of downtown and into a portion of the Historic Old Northeast neighborhood. Both areas are

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part of the National Register historic districts and still retain the feel of 1920’s St. Petersburg with an eclectic collection of historic residential buildings. 10 am – noon, $, North Straub Park, 350 Bayshore Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. 727.824.7802. www.preservetheburg.org

METLIFE /AUDI GRIDIRON GALA - This prestigious evening is the holiday event of the year for bowl and school VIPs at the Marriott Waterside in downtown Tampa. The event features food stations, dessert room and even a cigar bar. www.outbackbowl.com/events

Sun, Dec 30

OUTBACK BOWL EVENTS CLEARWATER BEACH DAY - Join the teams, their marching bands and cheerleaders as they enjoy the sun and beaches at the Hilton Clearwater Beach next to Pier 60. This fun day includes live music, skydivers, a tug-of-war and other contests from 11:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. After Beach Day stick around for Sunsets at Pier 60 featuring artisans, music and more while you watch the sunset on the Gulf of Mexico.

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HISTORIC FISHING VILLAGE & BOARDWALK

ocated on the waterfront at Johns Pass, this quaint turn-of-the-century fishing village is Pinellas County’s #1 tourist attraction. Over one hundred merchants inhabit the Village with unique retail shopping, a variety of restaurants, the local fishing fleet, dolphin watching and shelling tours, boat rentals, parasailing and jet skiing. Plenty of parking: There is metered on-street parking located conveniently throughout the Village, as well as a new state-of-the-art multi-level parking garage adjacent to Bubba Gumps and Hubbards Marina. The beach is a short stroll away. Conveniently located near St. Petersburg, Clearwater and Tampa, and just a short drive to the Orlando area. Open daily!

12901 Gulf Blvd, Madeira Beach, Florida Located on the Gulf-to-Intercoastal pass between Madeira Beach and Treasure Island

(727) 394-0756 • johnspassvillage.net

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

LOCAL FOCUS

Continued

JANUARY Sun, Jan 6

WORDIER’S 1K WALK AND WRITE (OR READ). Here’s your chance to make some time for your creative work or for that book you’ve been meaning to pick up. Part 1K. Part writing workshop. Part silent read-in. Part walking tour of St. Pete. Part pub crawl. This is neither a timed nor certified 1K course. 1:30 – 5 pm, $, St. Petersburg Waterfront. www.facebook.com/events/397541350672762 BENEFIT FOR BRADY. Throwing a benefit for a local business owner, a Safety Harbor Legend, Brady. If you’re looking for great fun to support and benefit a member of the community, this is it. Prizes, raffles, specials, bands will all go to Brady’s Fund. Events will be inside and out in the lot with a large Main Stage outside. Great bands will perform, such as Greg Billings, The Black Honkeys, Soupbone and many more. There will be large raffles, and American Custom Golf carts has donated a custom cart ($4,100 value) to raffle to raise some more for this cause. Tickets are $20, and a cart will be around town selling ticket. Precision Motorworks has donated a tune up package including tires, tune-up, and oil change estimated at $700, plus many more prizes. Looking for donations, help, or anything else to make this a great day. (727) 726-8044. jzemzicki@yahoo.com Harbor Bar, 840 Main St, Safety Harbor, Florida 34695. www.facebook.com/events/456753424850888/

Games will be broadcast on a huge screen directly on the beach. Fun giveaways, a DJ and beach games for the whole family. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Coolers are not allowed. 7 pm, $, Tradewinds Island Resort, 600 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. www.tradewindsresort.com/Lightning

Fri, Jan 18

CITY OF GULFPORT ARBOR DAY. Celebrate trees and their importance to the environment. Children from the School Year Child Care Program will read excerpts and the Gulfport Teen Council will serve refreshments. Free Sweetgum and Red Maple seedlings will be available to guests while supplies last. 727.893.1118. 3:30 – 4:30 pm, Free, Tomlinson Park Complex, 19th Ave. S & 54th St. S, Gulfport. www.mygulfport.us

Jan 19-20

Thurs, Jan 10

LGBQ FILM SERIES – THE CAKEMAKER . The film explores all-consuming emotion with beguiling restraint, adding up to a delicately understated character study fueled by the power of love. Popcorn, candy, bottled water and soda are available. Feel free to bring your own brown bag supper and beverages. 7 pm, Free (donations accepted), 727.893.1074. Gulfport Public Library, 5501 28th Ave. S, Gulfport. www.facebook.com/GulfportLibraryFL

ST. PETE BEACH CLASSIC WEEKEND RACE. Several Kids Dashes (50 to 300 yards), a 10K, 5K, 3.8 Mile Beach Fun Run and a Half Marathon separated by a couple post-race parties, free concert and a beach bonfire. Times and registration fees vary, Sirata Beach Resort, 5300 Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach. www.stpetebeachclassic.com/race-info

Sat, Jan 12

TAMPA BAY LIGHTNING GAME WATCH PARTY. 36

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2019 Seminole Hard Rock Calendar Girls Announced

amily, friends and media gathered together for the announcement and presentation of the 2019 Hard Rock Calendar recently at the Hard Rock Cafe inside the casino. The $12 calendar is a fundraiser for 12 area non-profits, and 100% of the profits go to the charities. The calendar is now available for purchase in the Seminole Hard Rockâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s giftshops.

The bevy of beauties that make up the 2019 Hard Rock calendar. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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The Heart Gallery’s “Heartfelt Harvest” Event at The Wyndam Grand

he Heart Gallery’s recent event at the Wyndham Grand Clearwater Beach Resort raised much-needed funds for the charity a which finds families for hard-to-adopt children due to aging out of Meliss y b e the system or special needs. This is always a well-attended event erag & cov s o t full of open hearts and pocketbooks. The Heart Gallery utilizes the talents of o Ph volunteer photographers to take photos of children showing their personalities, which are then promoted through several outlets. They recently celebrated their 356th adoption since the inception of the organization in 2006. The event provided guests with a fun evening with a reception with passed hors d’oeuvres, a delicious dinner, entertainment by the DeLeon band, and silent and live auctions.

www.heartgallerykids.org

Mini Kobe Meatloaf, one of the passed hors d’oeuvres

One of the Heart Gallery success stories

Posters of children both available for adoption and adopted dotted the hallways of the event. 38

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Persimmon Salad with Pomegranate, Feta Cheese & Candied Pecans.

Lots of goods were available for the silent auction.

A child looking for a loving family.

Evening emcee Kendall Kirkham is host of Great Day Tampa Bay on WTSP_TV

Patsy Stills, Executive Dir of Heart Gallery of Pinellas & Pasco gave welcoming remarks.

DeLeon provided entertainment for the evening. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

MARKETS & WALKS TUESDAY

EVERY TUESDAY MORNING GULFPORT’S FRESH MARKET - 9am-3pm - Oct - April; 9am-2pm - May - Sept. Vendors offer a variety of produce, including local, organic and hydroponic fruits and vegetables when available. Vendors also offer local honey, teas, herbs, seafood, Florida grass-fed beef and other locally raised meats, eggs, cheeses, fresh breads, pastries, nuts and granola, gourmet, vegetarian/vegan and ethnic foods, candy, garden plants, fresh flowers, bath and body products, jewelry and much more. www.gulfportma.com/gma-events/ tuesday-fresh-market

WEDNESDAY

EVERY WEDNESDAY THE MID-WEEK SEMINOLE OPEN AIR MARKET - November through the end of April. 10am - 2pm, 9100 113th St, Seminole, Florida. Local Growers, hydroponic and local produce, gourmet and specialty foods, fine arts and crafts, spa-quality body care products, community connections. Family and pet friendly, free. www.TheBeachMarkets.com

3RD THURSDAY TAMPA FLICKS AND FOOD TRUCKS - The Gourmet Food Truck Fun is paired with Independent short Flicks and Live Music. 10-15 gourmet food trucks offer everything from Burgers to Vegetarian Bites. 6pm – 10 pm, Rain or Shine. The Grand Central at Kennedy. 1208 E. Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33602. www.tampabaymarkets.com/flicks-andfood-trucks

FRIDAY

1ST FRIDAY NIGHT ST. PETE. Monthly street party with music, food and beverages for purchase. Proceeds benefit the Christmas Toy Shop. 5:30 - 10 pm, Free, Central Ave., between 2nd & 3rd Streets, St. Petersburg. www.firstfridaystpete.com 1ST FRIDAYS ART IN THE HEIGHTS - First Friday Art in the Heights is at participating galleries, studios, and small businesses, from 7 to 10. Art After Hours features restaurants and bars in the area, from 9 to midnight. Several Seminole Heights and Tampa Heights neighborhood art galleries, studios and small businesses extend their hours so that you can see a slew of new art at different venues all in one outing. www.facebook.com/FirstFridayArtintheheights/

THURSDAY

1ST THURSDAY NIGHT ROCK THE PARK CONCERT - Rock the Park is held at Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park on the 1st Thursday of the month. A monthly music series showcasing musical talents of all genres. This FREE event is pet and family-friendly. Starts at 6:30pm. www.facebook.com/RockThePark 1ST THURSDAY MONTHLY URBAN STREET FAIR. Urban Street Fair on the Esplanade at the Tampa City Center. The outdoor event takes place monthly on first Thursdays. Along with music and street performers, the event brings in local artists, makers, crafters, and trendy fashion vendors. Entertainment and vendors change monthly, making each event different. Free and open to all ages. 201 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL. www.TampaNightMarket.com 40

1ST FRIDAY GULFPORT ART & GALLERY WALK. The streets are lined with artisans, entertainment and gourmet goodies. Shops, galleries and restaurants open late. 6 - 10 pm, Free. Complimentary parking is available nearby with courtesy trolley rides available to and from off-site parking areas. Beach Blvd., Gulfport. www.visitgulfportflorida.com 2ND FRIDAY DUNEDIN WINE AND ART WALK. Downtown Dunedin merchants offer specials and discounts; browse the art exhibits, sip wine at tastings, enjoy food samplings, live entertainment and a drawing. Wristbands to get special offers from merchants and be eligible for prize drawing. Pioneer Park, Main Street and Douglas Avenue, Dunedin, 34698. www.2ndfridaydunedin.com/

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SATURDAY

2ND SATURDAY ARTWALK AT THE EDGE. The Waterfront Arts District, Central Arts District, EDGE District, Grand Central District, and the Warehouse Arts District become one arts destination for the St. Petersburg Second Saturday ArtWalk. 40 artist’s studios and galleries from 5-9 p.m. Rain or shine. www.stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk

2ND SATURDAYS AT WILLIAMS PARK, ST PETE. Family friendly event that takes place each second saturday of the month. www.y2kpro.com 3rd SATURDAY ART & GALLERY WALK. The streets are lined with artisans, entertainment and gourmet goodies. Shops, galleries and restaurants open late. 6-10 pm. Free. Rain or shine. Complimentary parking is available nearby with courtesy trolley rides available to and from off-site parking areas. Beach Blvd., Gulfport. www.visitgulfportflorida.com 3RD SATURDAY ISLA DEL SOL MARKET The Isla del Sol 3rd Saturday Market around the boardwalk at Shoppers Village between 10am and 2pm. A variety of local vendors and products, ranging from handcrafted items and baked goods to handmade giftware and organically-grown produce. Free parking. www.facebook.com/IsladelSolSaturdayMarket EVERY SATURDAY CITRUS PARK MALL INDOOR MARKET. 10am -4 pm. Sample the Best Rum Cakes in Tampa. Meet talented Artisans and Fine Handcrafters. Bring the kids - relax and join paint classes from 1- 4 pm. Market in The Park, Westfield Citrus Park Mall, 7814 Citrus Park Town Center Mall, Tampa FL 33625. www.marketatthepark.com/ EVERY SATURDAY YBOR CITY MARKET. May Sept - 9am-1pm; Oct - April - 9am-3pm. Featuring regionally grown produce and ornamental plants, fruits and vegetables, herbs and cut flowers, prepared foods, gourmet foods/baked goods, arts and crafts, jewelry, woodworking, bath and body products, candles, pet treats, honey, fine cigars, unique gifts, unique and quality collectibles, and some import items. Free admission and parking. Pets welcome. Centennial Park, 1901 19th Street, Tampa, Fl 33605. www.ybormarket.com/ EVERY SATURDAY DOWNTOWN CLEARWATER FARMERS MARKET - Every Saturday year-round

from 10am-2pm on Cleveland Street. Shop over 100+ vendors, fresh local produce, live music and more. Pet friendly. Free parking. Coachman Park, 301 Drew St, Clearwater, FL 33755. www.clearwaterfarmersmarket.net

SUNDAY

1ST SUNDAY ST PETE MARKET - Oct thru April. The market features local artists and crafters, mimosas, live music and free chair massages, flowers, artisan soaps, gourmet sauces, handcrafted jewelry, local art, soy candles, home decor and other curated products crafted or sourced locally. Noon to 4 pm. Free admission. Caddy’s on Central, 217 Central Ave, St Petersburg 33701. 727-637-5586. www.stpetesundaymarket.com 2nd SUNDAY SEMINOLE HEIGHTS MORNING FALL MARKET Oct through April, 10 am to 2 pm. 60+ vendors. A mixture of Fresh Produce, Plants, Herbs, Fresh Baked Goods, Take Home Foods, Hand Crafts and Ready to Eat Lunch Bites. The front lawn of Hillsborough High School, 5000 N. Central Ave. Tampa, FL 33603. www.tampabaymarkets.com/seminoleheights-sunday-morning-market 3RD SUNDAY THE INDIAN SHORES SUNDAY MORNING MARKET - thru May 14. 9am-1pm, On the grounds of the Town of Indian Shores Municipal Center. Local produce, gourmet and specialty foods, fine arts and crafts, body care products, community connections. Family and pet friendly, beach close. Free. 19305 Gulf Boulevard, Indian Shores. www.TheBeachMarkets.com EVERY SUNDAY HYDE PARK FRESH MARKET. 125+ vendors selling a mixture of fresh produce, eggs, plants, herbs, fresh baked goods,take home foods, hand crafts,and ready to eat lunch bites. 10am - 3pm year round. Hyde Park Village, 742 S. Village Circle, Tampa FL 33604. www.tampabaymarkets.com

EVERY SUNDAY COREY AVENUE SUNDAY MARKET - October thru May. 80 vendors. 10am – 2pm. Corey Avenue Between Boca Ciega Ave and Gulf Blvd, St. Pete Beach, Florida 33706. www. tampabaymarkets.com/corey-avenue-sundaymarket

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COOLSTUFF

X A R T Y A D HOLI

All music is available on www.Amazon.com

TRANS-SIBERIAN ORCHESTRA The Christmas Attic

hino Entertainment released a 20th Anniversary Edition of The Christmas Attic on CD and digitally. A vinyl version of the release is also available. The second installment in The Christmas Trilogy tells the story of a little girl who spends a night in an attic filled with yuletide reveries, while guitar solos and choral vocals soar over a rock orchestral backing across 16 tracks. 1998’s The Christmas Attic features some of the band’s most popular songs “Christmas Canon,” “The March of the Kings/Hark The Herald Angels Sing,” “Joy/Angels We Have Heard On High,” “Christmas in the Air,” and “Christmas Jam (LIVE).”

PAUL CARDALL Christmas

aul Cardall’s latest release, Christmas, is a stirring and timeless work of art. This Christmas collection embodies the spirit of the holiday in all its gravitas and wonder. Cardall’s skill as a composer shines on this record with his characteristic blend of new-age piano performance and rich classical strings. This marks the sixth #1 album for Cardall. He is currently one of America’s most successful independent artists. With more than 2 BILLION lifetime digital streams, he currently averages over 25 million streams monthly.

SQUIRREL NUT ZIPPERS Mardi Gras For Christmas & Alone At Christmas

t was back in 1998 when the Squirrel Nut Zippers released their first and only Holiday album titled Christmas Caravan which went on to sell a quarter of a million copies and reached #12 on the Billboard Holiday Albums chart. Twenty years later, the band has now recorded two brand new tracks: “Mardi Gras For Christmas” along with the b-side “Alone At Christmas.” This past March the Squirrel Nut Zippers released their first new studio album in eighteen years titled Beasts Of Burgundy. The album debuted at #4 on the Billboard Jazz Albums Chart upon it’s release.

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www.stoneangelmusic.com www.snzippers.com

CARPENTERS With the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra

eaturing timeless hits and favorites, the album pairs Carpenters’ original vocal and instrumental tracks with new orchestral arrangements from Carpenter, conducting the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra (RPO) at Abbey Road Studios. With their 1970 chart breakthroughs of “(They Long To Be) Close to You” and “We’ve Only Just Begun,” Richard and Karen Carpenter set a new standard for melodic pop that has never been surpassed. With over 100 million in sales, Carpenters are among the all-time most successful artists in recording history. www.universalmusicenterprises.com/

A LEGENDARY CHRISTMAS John Legend

Legendary Christmas is the sixth studio album and first Christmas album by John Legend. The 14-track record features guest artists such as Esperanza Spalding on “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas”, and Stevie Wonder on “What Christmas Means to Me.” You will also find holiday favorites like “The Christmas Song (Chestnuts Roasting on an Open Fire),” Legend also wrote some original songs, including “Bring Me Love.” www.columbiarecords.com

BRIAN SETZER ORCHESTRA Christmas Rocks Live!

conic guitarist, songwriter, vocalist and 3-time Grammy-Award winner Brian Setzer and his 19-piece orchestra have released a new concert film Christmas Rocks! Live, on Blu–ray. The 18-song film highlights Setzer’s renowned arrangements of holiday classics such as “Rockin’ Around The Christmas Tree,” “Jingle Bells” and “Here Comes Santa Claus” in addition to hits “Stray Cat Strut,” “Jump, Jive An’ Wail,” and “Rock This Town.” Also featured is Setzer’s skillful rendition of the “Nutcracker Suite.” www.surfdogsrecords.com

www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

1010 N. W.c. Macinnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-Star. www.strazcenter.org

BROADWAY SHOWS

HELLO, DOLLY! - Dec 4 - 9 Tony Award-winning Broadway legend Betty Buckley stars in Hello, Dolly! Winner of four Tony Awards including Best Musical Revival, director Jerry Zaks’ “gorgeous” new production (Vogue) is “making people crazy happy!” (The Washington Post). Breaking box office records week after week and receiving thunderous raves on Broadway, this HELLO, DOLLY! pays tribute to the original work of legendary director/choreographer Gower Champion – hailed both then and now as one of the greatest stagings in musical theater history. LES MISÉRABLES - Jan 15 - 20 Cameron Mackintosh presents the new production of Alain Boublil and Claude-Michel Schönberg’s Tony Award-winning musical phenomenon, Les Misérables. Set against the backdrop of 19th-century France, Les

Misérables tells a story of broken dreams and unrequited love, passion, sacrifice and redemption – a timeless testament to the survival of the human spirit. Featuring the beloved songs “I Dreamed A Dream,” “On My Own,” “Stars,” “Bring Him Home,” “One Day More,” and many more, this uplifting story has become one of the most celebrated musicals in theatrical history. HUNDRED DAYS - Jan 15 - Mar 24 Hundred Days is an uncensored, exhilarating and heartrending true story about embracing uncertainty, taking a leap and loving as if you only had 100 days to live. With magnetic chemistry and anthemic folk-punk music, creators and stars Abigail and Shaun Bengson explore a fundamental question: how do we make the most of the time that we have? A BRONX TALE - Jan 29 - Feb 3 Broadway’s hit crowd-pleaser takes you to the stoops of the Bronx in the 1960s where a young man is caught between the father he loves and the mob boss he’d love to be. Bursting with high-energy dance numbers and original doo-wop tunes, A Bronx Tale is a story of loyalty and family based on Chazz Palminteri’s story. A Bronx Tale contains strong language and gunshot effects.

HELLO DOLLY

Straz Center, www.AccentOnTampaBay.com 813-229-7827. www.strazcenter.org

THEATER & MUSIC AMALIE ARENA 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813.301.6500. www.amaliearena.com DEC 7 – BARRY MANILOW

when his heart is stolen by the town librarian. JAN 2 – 20 – Ghosts 11 – March 10 – The Crucible 18 – March 31 – A Doll’s House, Part 2 CAPITOL THEATRE 405 Cleveland Street, Clearwater 727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com/Venues DEC 1 – The Robert Cray Band 2 – Celtic Angels Christmas 5, 7 – The Outlaws 6 – Iris Dement 8 – Manhattan Transfer – Herb Alpert 9 – Peter White Christmas 10 – Michael W. Smith Christmas 12 – Chris Isaak Holiday Tour 13, 15 – Byrds: Sweetheart of the Rodeo 14 – The Celebrity Housewives 21 – Rocapella Christmas 30 – CAL The Beatles – Abbey Road JAN 4 – The Marshall Tucker Band

14 – for King & Country 15 – Jingle Ball 16 - Trans-Siberian Orchestra (TSO) Winter Tour 2018. 19 – 23 – Cirque du Soleil 30 – WWE Live Holiday Tour JAN 12 – Winter Jam 2019 AMERICAN STAGE 163 Third St. N, St. Petersburg 727.823.7529. www.americanstage.org/ DEC thru DEC 30 – Miss Bennet: Christmas at Pemberly ASOLO REPERTORY THEATRE 5555 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 800.361.8388 www.asolorep.org Thru DEC 29. THE MUSIC MAN. Fast-talking traveling salesman Harold Hill brings trouble to River City, Iowa when he cons the townspeople into buying instruments for an imaginary band – but his plans to skip town with the cash are foiled

13 – Engelbert Humperdinck 16 – The SteelDrivers 17 – Arlo Guthrie 18 – Lake Street Dive 19 – Robert Klein CARROLLWOOD CULTURAL CENTER 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. www.carrollwoodcenter.org DEC 21 - Bonnie Quintana with Jazz with Jim

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t

CARROLLWOOD PLAYERS THEATRE 4335 Gunn Hwy, Tampa, FL 33618 813.265.4000. www.carrollwoodplayers.org/ thru DEC 22 - A CHRISTMAS CAROL. An adaptation of the story of Ebenezer Scrooge’s joumey from an embittered, ungenerous creature into a giving, caring human being at the hands of three spirits, who, one Christmas Eve, show him what life means.

CATHERINE HICKMAN THEATER 5501 27th Ave S, Gulfport, 727.893.1070 www.mygulfport.us DEC 11 – New Horizons Band Holiday Concert JAN 10 – 20 – Never Too Late

11 – The Music of Queen and Freddie Mercury 12 – The Kingson Trio 17 – The Machine performs Pink Floyd 18 – Yako Smiroff 20 – Let’s Hang On CATHERINE HICKMAN THEATER 5501 27th Ave S, Gulfport, 727.893.1070 www.mygulfport.us

CENTRAL PARK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 105 Central Park Dr, Largo. 727.587.6793. www.largoarts.com DEC 1 – It’s Beginning to Look a Lot Like Christmas 7 – Death By Chocolate 9 – Big Band Christmas 15 – Santa’s Holiday Revue 16 – An Elvis Christmas Special 20 – It’s Christmas with the Erica Diceglie Band CROWBAR 1812 N 17th St, Ybor City, FL 33605. www.crowbarybor.com/ DEC 18 - ANGEL VIVALDI - As made evident throughout his five solo releases, Angel Vivaldi’s blend of spell-binding guitar anthems and tasteful yet virtuosic playing have reached and inspired millions. His latest full-length album, Synapse, is a conceptual opus that joyously matches musical wits with a number of his talented contemporaries.

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t EARLY BIRD DINNER THEATRE 13355 49th St N, Clearwater, FL 33762. 727.864.7600. www.earlybirddinnertheatre.com DEC Thru 16 - Run For Your Wife. This British farce had audiences rolling in the aisles in London and New York. A taxi driver gets away with having two wives in different areas of London because of his irregular working schedule. Complication is piled upon complication as the cabby tries to keep his double life from exploding. ECKERD COLLEGE 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg. Miller Auditorium. 727.864.7600. www.eckerd.edu/metopera The Met in HD Series. Live high-definition broadcasts of the Metropolitan Opera. DEC 1 – Die Zauberflöte 15 – La Traviata JAN 12 – Adriana Lecouvreur FLORIDA ORCHESTRA 727.662.7286. www.floridaorchestra.org See venues for dates – Mahaffey Theater, Ruth Eckerd Hall & David Straz Performing Arts Center

FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 1241 North Palm Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34236. (941) 366-9000. www.floridastudiotheatre.org DEC Thru JAN 6 - A GENTLEMAN’S GUIDE TO LOVE AND MURDER follows Monty Navarro, a lowly born Englishman who suddenly discovers he is 48

ninth in succession to become the Earl of Highurst. Filled with remarkable music and killer laughs, this Broadway hit takes audiences on a journey through Monty’s murderous hijinks as he pursues his “rightful” place in the family. thru FEB 3 - UNCHAINED MELODIES. Celebrating male harmony groups of the 50s and 60s.

28 - MAR 31. GUITAR GIRLS. a tribute to some of the greatest female singer-songwriters of the past century. Featuring such hits as “Coal Miner’s Daughter,” “Jolene,” “Big Yellow Taxi,” and “I Will Always Love You,” this FST original music revue follows the careers, personal journeys, and impact of female music icons from Loretta Lynn and Dolly Parton to Joni Mitchell and the Dixie Chicks. DEC 12 - MAR 1 - STRAIGHT WHITE MEN. Straight White Men. Straight White Men is a comedic, yet ruthless, look at the classic father-son drama. Included in Christopher Isherwood’s coverage of the “Best Theater of 2014” for The New York Times, Young Jean Lee’s latest work pairs questions about identity, privilege, and gender with humor. FRANCIS WILSON PLAYHOUSE 302 Seminole St., Clearwater, Florida 33755. 727446-1360. www.franciswilsonplayhouse.org/ DEC 6 – 16 – You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown 22 – Concert: Christmas Celebration JAN 17 – 27 – Funny Money FREEFALL THEATRE COMPANY 6099 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-498-5205 www.freefalltheatre.com DEC 1 – 30 – Every Christmas Story Ever Told (and Then Some)

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GLENRIDGE PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 7333 Scotland Way, Sarasota 941.552.5325 www.gpactix.com DEC 8 – Pine View Jazz Band 9 – Sleigh 14 – Nate Najar’s Jazz Holiday JAN 13 – Harry Allen and the Four Others GULFPORT COMMUNITY PLAYERS www.gulfportcommunityplayers. org *Back Door Theater, 1619 49th St. S, Gulfport DEC 7, 8 – Coal

6 – Swan Lake 10 – TFO Coffee Concert: Spirit of American 12 – TFO Pops: Unforgettable: 100 Years of Nat & Natalie 17 – Pink Floyd Laser Spectacular 19, 20 – TFO: Schubert’s Symphony No. 9 MIDFLORIDA CREDIT UNION AMPHITHEATER Florida State Fairgrounds, 4802 US Hwy. 301 N, Tampa 813.740.2446. www.ticketmaster.com/venue/107257 DEC

1,2 – 97X Next Big Thing. Panic! At The Disco and Bastille will headline the eighteenth year of the 2-day alternative music festival. Saturday’s lineup includes Bastille, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, Nathaniel Rateliff & The Night Sweats, Elle King, and Lany. Sunday’s lineup includes Panic! At the Disco, Foster the People, Young the Giant, AJR, Chvrches, Alice Merton, Grandson, The Knocks, Dreamers, Flora Cash and Max Frost. One additional act for Sunday will be announced prior to the event. www.97xonline.com/nbt2018/ Continued

MAHAFFEY THEATER 400 1St St. S, Bayfront Center, St. Petersburg, 727.892.5767. www.themahaffeytheater.com DEC 8 – The Family Blessing 15 – TFO: Holiday Pops 16 – 98Rock’s Not So Silent Night 20 – TFO Coffee Concert: Orchestra a la Carte 26, 27 – Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker 29, 30 – Cirque Dreams Holidaze JAN 5 – TFO: Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

FOOTLIGHTS con’t NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE 4200 54th Ave. S, St. Petersburg. DEC 7 – The Madness of George III JAN 18 – Hamlet (2018 Encore) THE PALLADIUM 253 5Th Ave N, St. Petersburg. 727.822.3590. www.mypalladium.org DEC 1, 2 – The Nutcracker 6 – Arthur Greene 7 – Jason Marsalis 8, 9 – TFO: Mozart & Sibelius 12 – Bach, Turina, Schuber 13 – Nate Najar 14 – J3 Vocal Showband: Jolly Holiday 15 – Got Soul 18, 19 – Seasonal Sparkle 2018 JAN 5 – Victor Wainwright and the Train

6 – John Lamb’s All-Star Jazz Birthday 16 – Haydn, Dvo?ák, Mendelssohn 17 – Pavlo in Concert 20 – Tampa Bay Symphony: Composition Contest Finals PATEL CONSERVATORY 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813.222.1002 www.patelconservatory.org DEC thru 2 – The Best Christmas Pageant Ever 50

PINELLAS PARK PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 4951 78th Ave. N, Pinellas Park. www.matineeoperaplayers.org/performances DEC 1 – Sounds of Soul 15 – Artrageous JAN 5 – Elvis Birthday Bash POWERSTORIES THEATRE 2015 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa FL 33606. 813-2532000. www.powerstories.com DEC thru 16. It’s the week before Christmas, 1950 in San Diego CA. Betty, a single mother, is working as a waitress to put food on the table for her two young daughters. As she is serving lunch, Harold, a sailor, walks in the door to order the “Workingman’s Special”. At that moment, these two strangers are connected. Harold asks Betty one important question and the answer starts their life journey together.

RITZ YBOR 1503 E 7th Ave., Tampa, Fl 33605. 813-248-4050. www.theritzybor.com/ RUTH ECKERD HALL 1111 N. Mcmullen Booth Rd, Clearwater. 727.791.7400. www.rutheckerdhall.com DEC 1 – Star Wars Episode IV 5 – Brian Seltzer Orchestra 7 – Bowzer’s Holiday Party 8 – Kansas

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RUTH ECKERD HALL

CELTIC THUNDER

by Barbara McGovern

eltic Thunder will appeared at Ruth Eckerd Hall on Dec. 15 where they will present a great multi-generational show that appeals to the youngest fans enjoying their first concert, as well as their moms, dads and grandparents who have been to several shows. And you don’t have to be Irish to love the shows! Celtic Thunder became a world-wide sensation after appearing on a PBS special on their first promo tour the USA in 2008. Since then millions have seen them live, on their PBS shows, and on their videos. There are still 3 members of the original group in the show. I remember that I interviewed Damian McGinty on their first Tampa Bay tour. He was about 16 at the time and he is still part of the group. Ryan Kelly and Neil Byrne are also members of the original group. Emmet Cahill and Michael O’Dwyer joined the group in 2011 and 2016. George Donaldson, an original member, passed away a few years ago. George will always be loved and remembered. Members are selected by the producer, Sharon Browne with any eye to how each member will fit into a specific role in the show. She must have a great eye because there is very little change in the group. Most of the group’s shows are in North America but they have toured all over the world and they have a very large fan base in Australia. They usually do one show in each city and then it’s on to the next city. It’s a grueling schedule but it’s what they love to do. I wonder how many miles they cover each year.? I doubt they really want to know. Celtic Thunder has had 3 world fan cruises. I was on their first cruise and was amazing to meet so many fans from all around the world. I hope they are planning another cruise because I want to be there. I also hope they will be doing more tours in 2019 and releasing more CDs. Each show is different every year and it must take a lot of time and effort to get everything to gel. They want to keep their fans interested. Try to catch the “Lads” at Ruth Eckerd Hall on the 15th. You won’t be sorry.

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t

9 – The Wizard of Oz 11 – Generation Axe 12 – A Charlie Brown Christmas M&G 14 – Kenny G 15 – CELTIC THUNDER X TOUR 16 – TFO: Holiday Pops 18 – The Nutcracker 20 – TFO: Orchestra a la Carte 20 – A Christmas Carol 21 - The Florida Orchestra ‘Home Alone’ in Concert. With its new season fast approaching, The Florida Orchestra has added the beloved holiday film Home Alone to its concert lineup, expanding its movie concerts to four blockbusters this season. The orchestra will perform John Williams’ charming score live as the comedy classic plays on the big screen for one night only, Friday, Dec. 21, 2018, at 7:30 pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall, just in time for Christmas. 22, 23 – The Sound of Music 29 – Terry Fator

31 – Salute To Vienna JAN 4 – Ron White 5 – Something Rotten! 6 – Elvis Birthday Bash 6 – TFO: Gershwin Rhapsody in Blue 9 – TFO: Spirit of America 10 – The Bronx Wanderers 12 – Whose Live Anyway 17 – Pilobolus 19 – Month Python’s Spamalot 20 – Masters of Illusion SARASOTA BALLET 5555 N. Tamiami Trail Sarasota 52

941-359-0099. www.sarasotaballet.org DEC 5 – Inside the Studio – Diamonds 14, 15 – Victorian Winters 20 – Nutcracker Winter Showcase JAN 6 – The Sarasota Ballet Gala 16 – Inside the Studio – World Premiere SARASOTA OPERA HOUSE 61 N Pineapple Ave., Sarasota, 941.359.0099. www.sarasotaopera.org DEC 1, 9, 15, 16 – The Nutcracker 7, 8 – Ditchfield Family Singers 14 – Operetta Night JAN 5 – Celebration Concert SIDESPLITTERS COMEDY CLUB 12938 N. Dale Mabry Highway, Tampa, FL 33618. (813) 960-1197. SEE Footlights AD FOR ACTS. www.sidesplitterscomedy.com/

Dr. John Valby at Side Splitters

SKIPPERS SMOKEHOUSE 910 Skipper Rd, Tampa, FL 33613, (813) 9710666. www.skipperssmokehouse.com/ DEC 1 - Zach Deputy. Concertgoers can look forward to a unique live music experience. Zach plays a different set every night as an ultimate expression of living in the moment, with the hopes of opening windows to people’s souls to remind them of how good it feels to be alive. Combining his family roots island vibe with his low country southern soul, a pinch of tranced out hippy hop, and a vast amount of talent, Zach’s sound emerges in focus.

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STAGEWORKS THEATER 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., West Bldg., #151, Tampa 813.374.2416. www.stageworkstheatre.org DEC 6 – 23 – THE WINTER WONDERETTES ST. PETERSBURG CITY THEATRE 4025 31st St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33712. 727.866.1973. www.spcitytheatre.org/ DEC 7 – 16 – A CHRISTMAS CAROL. Scrooge, Tiny Tim, a host of beloved characters and strolling carolers come to life in this spectacular production of the most loved holiday story of all time. In one night Scrooge sees his past, present and future come to haunt him and discovers the true meaning of Christmas.

1 – Eden Shireen 4 – The Texas Tenors 4 – 9 – Hello, Dolly! 7 – Taylor Reed 7 – TFO: Mozart & Sibelius 8 – Celeste Barber 8 – Danielle Mohr 8, 9 – Jane Lynch 11 – Holiday Music Concert 8, 9 – Jane Lynch 13 – 16 – An Unforgettable Nat King Cole Christmas with TYRONE EVAN MARTIN

ST. PETERSBURG OPERA COMPANY 727.823.2040 www.stpeteopera.org Mornings, Afternoons, Evenings and Cocktail with the Maestro. Various performance locations DEC 18, 19 – Seasonal Sparkle STRAZ CENTER 1010 N. W.C. MacInnes Place, Tampa 813.229. STAR www.strazcenter.org DEC

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FOOTLIGHTS con’t 14 – Connor Zwetsch 14 – TFO: Holiday Pops 17 – Amythyst Kiah 20 – Latin Nights 21 – Nutcracker 22 – Sarah Morey 28 – A Drag Queen Christmas 28 – Sebastian Maniscalco JAN 4 – TFO: Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue 5 – Stars of today Meet the Stars of Tomorrow Youth America Grand Prix Gala 9 – February 3 – Othello 10 – Latin Nights 11 – TFO: Unforgorettable: 100 Years of Nat & Natalie 15 – March 24 – Hundred Days 15 – Into the Arctic Kingdow with Florian Schulz 15 – 20 – Les Misérables 18 – TFO: Schubert’s Symphony No. 9 20 – Rosie Revere, Engineer TAMPA THEATRE 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. www.TampaTheatre.org DEC 6 - Home Free - A Country Christmas. The 5-man band has become known for their show-stopping performances that mix their signature no-instrument, allvocal music with their quick-witted humor.

the murky waters of identity. The reunion sends four millennial women into a struggle for clarity with their most significant relationships; those with God, lovers, and family. An awkwardly hilarious and wrenching exploration of love, sexuality, and sisterhood, Dike questions the walls religion and social conditioning build in us. USF YUENGLING CENTER 4202 East Fowler Ave, Tampa, Fl 33620. (813) 974-3111 www.yuenglingcenter.com/ DEC 1 – Harlem Globetrotters 14 – Underoath 16 – Cirque Musica Holiday JAN 20 – Trevor Noah VAN WEZEL 777 N Tamiami Trail, Sarasota. 941-953-3368 www.vanwezel DEC 4, 5 – The King and I 11 – Brian Wilson 16 – A Christmas Carol 17 – Itzhak Perlman 18 – Celtic Thunder X 19, 20 – THE SOUND OF MUSIC

TARPON SPRINGS CULTURAL ART CENTER JAN 1 8 – 27 – Bayou Radio Theatre

TARPON SPRINGS PERFORMING ARTS CENTER 324 Pine St, Tarpon Springs, FL. www.tarponarts.org/ DEC 2 – A Well-Strung Christmas 8 – The Game’s Afoot URBANITE THEATRE 1487 Second Street, Sarasota, FL 34236. www.urbanitetheatre.com DEC thru 16 - DIKE. After two years of separation, a pair of sisters from a religious family reunite to navigate 54

21 – Moscow Ballet: Great Russian Nutcracker 22 – Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer 26 – 30 – On Your Feet! 31 – The Sweet Caroline Tour

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17 – LINDA EDER

JAN 2 – Salute to Vienna 3 – JAY LENO

7, 8 – Something Rotten! 9 – 3 Redneck Tenors 10 – Blue Suede – The Premier Elvis Birthday Bash 13 – Air Supply 15 – The Righteous Brothers

WEST COAST PLAYERS 21905 Us 19 N. Clearwater, 727.437.2363. www.wcplayers.org DEC Thru 16 – A Doublewide, Texas Christmas. JAN 18 – February 10 – Bingo! The Winning Musical

www.FergsSportsBar.com/

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No Place Like The Florida Orchestra for the Holidays

ometimes when friends and family gather for the holidays, you don’t know whether to laugh or cry. Live music with The Florida Orchestra can bring peace on earth and good will to all generations, whether it’s through traditional classical music or a classic comedy film concert. Both Aunt Sue and little Johnny will have a jolly good time.

HOME ALONE IN CONCERT (Dec. 21) It’s a movie and a concert all wrapped up into one holiday package. The orchestra performs John Williams’ charming score live as the comedy classic starring Macaulay Culkin plays on the big screen at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Featuring The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. Daniel Black conducts.

MOZART & SIBELIUS (Dec. 7-9 with Sunday matinee): Mozart’s beautiful Sinfonia Concertante will melt your heart, with TFO’s Nancy Chang on violin and Derek Mosloff on viola. Also: Sibelius’ Symphony No. 1. Stuart Malina conducts. Free tickets for kids and teens in advance to this and all Tampa Bay Times Masterworks concerts. HOLIDAY POPS (Dec. 14-16 with two matinees): Pure holiday magic you can’t buy at the mall, featuring the velvet voice of American Idol star Michael Lynche and Unlimited Gospel Expressions choir. Trevor Pettiford of Bay News 9 narrates The Night Before Christmas. Jeff Tyzik conducts.

Put these on your list: Keep the holiday cheer alive with tickets to an upcoming concert. For example, Star Wars Live in Concert: The Empire Strikes Back (Jan. 26) features the full movie with live orchestra music at Ruth Eckerd Hall. An Intimate Evening with Seal (Feb. 9) is an outstanding orchestra concert with the four-time Grammy winner that you can feel good about: Proceeds support The Florida Orchestra’s community, education and artistic initiatives. Gift certificates also available.t only! Tickets available through Ruth Eckerd Hall. THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA: Performs regularly at the Straz Center in Tampa, Mahaffey in St. Petersburg and Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. The orchestra offers affordably priced tickets to a variety of concerts; prices vary. See FloridaOrchestra.org or call 727.892.3337 and 1.800.662.7286. www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Looking Good Compiled by Melissa Wolcott Martino

CHAMILIA Birthstone Charms w/Swarovski Gemstones

For more information please visit www.chamilia.com

hamilia, a Swarovski company, is releasing 12 new “Birthstone Galaxy” charms. This new collection is made to a fine jewelry standard with Swarovski Created Stones and sterling silver, fully pavéd using an À jour setting. The openwork background allows the back of the stone to be open “to the day.” The light enhances the scintillating color and brilliance of each created stone, bringing it to life. The 12 new Chamilia “Birthstone Galaxy” charms (MSRP US$45) include: Jan - Dark Red; Feb - Fancy Purple; March - Fancy Light Blue; April - White; May Green; June - Purplish Pink; July - Red; Aug - Peridot; Sept—Sapphire Blue Dark; October - Fancy Pink; Nov - Amber; Dec - London Blue Dark. The entire Chamilia line is made from sterling silver or 14 karat gold and features genuine Swarovski Crystals, Swarovski Zirconia, and now Created Stones from Swarovski Gemstones Business.

DAZI Skinny Ties

en are stepping up their tie game with Dazi’s on-trend, handsome designs that keep them looking sharp. A great neck-tie has always been, and always will be, the key to really getting respect when it comes to the menswear game. Dazi skinny ties are perfect for any special night out. With a wide array of colors and patterns, these fine-crafted ties will have you ready for whatever the day brings. Dazi ties are also perfect for weddings to keep the groomsmen looking great. The ties are handmade, and come in various designs, styles, and colors. Dazi even offers some styles for children, including bow ties.

For more information visit www.daziusa.com

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COOBIE BRA

Smooth & Seamless

oobie has the perfect bra for you to feel glam, They come in lots of colors and patterns, in lace too, to suit your mood and your wardrobe. Ultra comfortable, supportive, and inexpensive – it’s the perfect combination. The Coobie Bra provides shape and support and can be worn in place of a camisole or tank top. Because it doesn’t have seams or hooks, the Coobie sports a smooth, bump-free profile under even the thinnest tee. Its special design with ribbing and ruching makes for a knockout shapely silhouette, and the Coobie fits almost every body.

For more information, please visit www.shopcoobie.com

LAY N GO COSMO Cosmetic Organizer T he Lay-n-Go COSMO is a cosmetic bag that allows you to see all of your cosmetics at once, and clean up in seconds. No more digging and dumping in a traditional black hole make up bag. The raised lip keeps make up and brushes from rolling off the counter. The Cosmo is wipeable and machine washable. Use at home or away. Do your daily make up routine at the gym, or in your office, on a clean dry surface. Pull the drawstring cord and the Cosmo cinches completely closed to stow or travel. Pack the Cosmo in your suitcase, tuck it in your overnight bag. The Cosmo conveniently fits anywhere. It opens up to a handy 20”, has a zippered storage pocket, and a convenient handle. Lay-n-Go is available in different sizes and colors.

For more information, visit www.layngo.com/ www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

ATT RACT I O NS & MUS E UMS E V E N TS

Tampa Bay Area ARTpool Gallery 2030 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727.324.3878 artpoolrules.com DEC 15, 16 – Crafty Fest BOYD HILL NATURE PRESERVE 1101 Country Club Way S, St. Petersburg 727.893.7326. www.stpeteparksrec.org/boyd-hill. Tram Tours Saturdays, Guided Tours, Classes. JAN 8 – Birds and Bombs BROOKER CREEK PRESERVE 3940 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. 727. 453.6800. www.brookercreekpreserve.org Tram Tours Saturdays. Guided Tours, Classes

additional attractions: The Florida Aquarium, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, Clearwater Marine Aquarium (home to Winter and Hope, stars of the Dolphin Tale movies), and a choice between the Museum of Science and Industry and the Chihuly Collection. The included tickets are valid over a period of nine consecutive days, beginning with the first day of use. The mobile ticket will work in the same manner as printed CityPASS ticket booklets, although instead of scanning a printed ticket at the attraction, the visitor will scan their phone. Mobile tickets, as well as ticket booklets, can be purchased online.

CHIHULY COLLECTION 720 Central Avenue, St. Petersburg. 727.822.7872. www.moreanartscenter.org Only permanent collection of Dale Chihuly’s work.

TAMPA BAY CITYPASS MOBILE TICKET OPTION www.citypass.com/tampa City Pass, the company that specializes in packaging discounted admission to attractions in 12 North American destinations, has a mobile ticket option for its Tampa Bay CityPASS program. An advantage of the Tampa Bay mobile ticket, as well as all future mobile ticket programs for other CityPASS partner destinations, is that it is delivered to the purchaser’s phone in the language the buyer selected when they first visited the CityPASS website. The Tampa Bay CityPASS program includes prepaid admission to Busch Gardens Tampa Bay theme park, plus four 60

CLEARWATER MARINE AQUARIUM 249 Windward Passage, Clearwater, FL 33767. (727) 441-1790. www.seewinter.com Clearwater Marine Aquarium is home to rescued dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, nurse sharks and more. Winter the dolphin’s story of survival, after the injury that caused her to lose her tail, has impacted millions of people around the world. A major motion picture, Dolphin Tale, highlighted her life story in 2011. The sequel, Dolphin Tale 2, features the story of Hope, a young resident dolphin. Thru JAN 6 – Winter’s Wonderland CRACKER COUNTRY Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 US-301, Tampa, FL 33610. (813) 627-4225. www.crackercountry.org/ Cracker Country, a rural Florida living history museum, was established in 1978 by Mr. and Mrs. Doyle Carlton, Jr. so future generations might better understand and appreciate Florida’s rural heritage. CRAFTSMAN HOUSE 2955 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.323.2787.

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Attractions & Museums

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www.craftsmanhousegallery.com Gallery-Cafe-Pottery Studio 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk DALÍ MUSEUM One Dali Blvd., St. Petersburg, 727.823.3767. www.thedali.org DEC 6 – Bay Voices Ensemble 9 – Fashion Design Runway Event 13 – Pilgrim Pipers 13 – Poetry at The Dali 20 – Holiday Arts + Crafts Bazaar 20 – Opera at The Dali Thru FEB - WATERCOLORS AND DRAWINGS FROM THE VAULT. The Dalí Museum is displaying 25 rarely shown drawings and watercolors from The Dalí’s vault. The museum owns over 150 drawings and watercolors by the surrealist master, which periodically rotate to give visitors a continuing retrospective of Salvador Dalí’s works. The newly unveiled works range from 1917 to 1968 and highlight Dalí’s superior ability to draw in a variety of techniques to illuminate his complex dream imagery. JAN 10 – Poetry at The Dali 15 – Tied 17 – Opera at The Dali 19 – Introduction to Creative Thinking & Problem Solving DR. CARTER G. WOODSON AFRICAN AMERICAN MUSEUM 2240 9th Ave.S, St. Petersburg. www.woodsonmuseum.org

tory, culture and community. One City Chorus – Mondays 7 Pm DUNCAN MCCLELLAN GALLERY 2342 Emerson Ave. S, St. Petersburg, 813.760.6600 www.dmglass.com 2nd Saturday Gallery Walk DUNEDIN FINE ART CENTER 1143 Michigan Blvd. - Dunedin, 34698. 727.298. DFAC - www.dfac.org thru DEC 23. Starry, Starry Delights – 32nd Annual Holiday show + Sale. The centerpiece is the invitational exhibition, this year entitled Starry, Starry Delights. On a yearly basis, DFAC curators look to put together the best art, with a gift-giving perspective in mind. The result is a collection of works from around the region that any of your friends or relatives would be DELIGHTED to find under their tree. Add to that some exceptionally decorated themed trees and a selection of hard-to-find gifts with something for just about everyone. Thru DEC - TASTY 2018-19 SEASON. Anticipating the launch of DFAC’s new Food Arts educational program this winter, DFAC’s fall exhibits showcase an ensemble of exceptional artists from near and far on the concept of FOOD! The interpretations are wide and the selections tantalizing. It’s sure to be a feast for the eyes and mind.

FLORIDA AQUARIUM 701 Channelside Dr, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2734000. www.flaquarium.org Explore and learn about marine life at The Florida Aquarium. For all ages. Exhibits, Journey to Madagascar, Wetlands Trai, Bays and Beaches, Coral.

The museum presents the historic voice of one segment of the St. Petersburg Florida community in the perspective of local, regional, and national his62

FLORIDA BOTANICAL GARDENS 12520 Ulmerton Road, Largo , 727.582.2100. Closed weekends & County Holidays. www.flbg.org The Florida Botanical Gardens inspires and educates visitors by showcasing flora, fauna and natural resources in motivational surroundings that promote environmentally friendly techniques.

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thru DEC 30 – Holiday Lights in the Garden DEC 9 – Gift and Plant Sale

FLORIDA CRAFTART GALLERY 501 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, 727.821.7391. www.floridacraftart.org Second Saturday Artwalk Mural Walk on Saturdays FLORIDA HOLOCAUST MUSEUM 55 5th St S, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. (727) 8200100. www.flholocaustmuseum.org DEC 4 – Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn Centennial THRU FEB 10 - BILL GRAHAM AND THE ROCK & ROLL REVOLUTION.

This exhibition explores the extraordinary life of renowned music promoter Bill Graham (19311991) who helped launch and promote the careers of countless rock & roll artists. As a promoter and manager, he worked with iconic artists including the Grateful Dead, Jefferson Airplane, Janis Joplin, Jimi Hendrix, Santana, Fleetwood Mac, the Who, Led Zeppelin, the Doors, and the Rolling Stones. It also traces the indomitable spirit of a man brought to the United States as an eleven-year-old Jewish refugee fleeing the Nazis, fueling a lifelong passion and advocacy for social justice. Treasured photographs and artifacts from Graham’s early life and career will be on loan from the Graham family. An installation of “The Joshua Light Show”- the trailblazing liquid light show conceived in 1967 by multimedia artist Joshua White, which served as a backdrop to many Graham-produced shows - will be customized by White specifically for the exhibition. It will be one of several gallery components designed to evoke the sights and sounds of the era. thru May 5. THE SAM AND INGE LEWKOWITZ COLLECTION. Sam Lewkowitz and Inge London were forced to the edges of society by the Nazis during World War II. Sam was forced to flee Germany to Shanghai, China. Inge was trapped in Berlin during the war and was constantly under the eyes of the Nazi regime. After the war they met in the United States and married, beginning a new phase of their lives. Inge saved her Star of David patch, important documents, and a number of pre-war family photographs. Mindy and Judith donated all of these objects to The FHM and are on display.

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. • Experience a guided tour, special event or workshop. $10 Adults; $8 seniors 62+; $4 ages 2 - 11 1825 4th St. N., St. Petersburg, FL • 727-551-3100 64

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www.stpete.org

FLORIDA MUSEUM OF PHOTOGRAPHIC ARTS 400 N. Ashley Drive, Cube 200, Tampa, FL 33602, 813-221-2222. www.fmopa.org FLORIDA RAILROAD MUSEUM 12210 83rd St East, Parrish, FL 34219. 941-7760906. www.frrm.org

The Florida Railroad Museum was founded in 1982, and many train cars, cabooses, an ex-fruit growers express refrigerated car, a stainless steel baggage car plus others were donated, purchased and traded. Since then, they have received a former Pennsylvania RR sleeper, the “Bradenton,” two retired cars which were purchased from Ringling Brothers Circus, the ”Short Leaf Pine” and a 89-foot

flatcar which they converted into an open-air car. The FRRM sponsors A Day Out with Thomas, the Little Engine That Could; A Month of Steam; the Easter Bunny Special; the Pumpkin Patch Express at Halloween; the North Pole Express during the Christmas season; annual Veterans Day Von Kessinger’s Express, a (WWII special event); North/South Days; and Hole in the Head Gang, a train robbery event. Complimentary rides are given to moms and dads on Mother’s and Father’s Days, to kids accompanied by adults during the summer and to Southeastern Guide Dogs for training purposes. FORT DE SOTO PARK Tierre Verde. 727.552.1862. www.pinellascounty. org/park/05_Ft_DeSoto.htm The park offers the greatest diversity of systems just about anywhere. Emerging from the wealth of bird life, sea life, wild life and plant life is the majestic tapestry called Fort De Soto.. Guided Nature Walks – Sat & Sun. GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 110 W Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 443-3861. www.glazermuseum.org/ OCEAN SANDBOX! Move and shape the sand to create the ocean’s topography. Sculpt mountains, islands, underwater channels, and caves to see augCONTINUED

ig Cat Rescue is the world’s largest accredited sanctuary devoted to big cats. The nonprofit sanctuary is home to more than 70 lions, tigers, leopards, cougars, servals, caracals, and

various other exotic cats. BCR has built enclosures in a natural habitat with foliage and shelter on 55 acres in the Citrus Park area of north Tampa. They provide the best nutritional and medical care possible, and have conditioning and enrichment programs to provide the cats physical and psychological well being. The sanctuary is primarily supported by donation. The facility offers a variety of guided educational tours at 14 set times during the week. Be aware that most tours are not open to children ages 9 and under. All ages tours are held Saturdays at 12 pm. They also offer private tours, field trips, birthday parties, and other events. BCR, 12802 Easy Street, Tampa. For tour times and reservations, call 888-316-5875, or visit www.BigCatRescue.org www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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mented reality marine landscape come to life with ocean creatures, treasure chests, and more SUNSHINE SUNDAY: Last Sunday Of Every Other Month 10am - 1pm. This program is a limitedengagement event for children with special needs and their caregivers. Children can explore the Museum with lights and sounds turned down and sensory adapted tools, special programs, and community resources at their fingertips.

11 – A Night at the Brewseum. Features 10+ local breweries, a spirit and wine tasting room and tons of fun games so you and your friends can play like a kid again. GULF BEACHES HISTORICAL MUSEUM 115 10th Ave, St Pete Beach 727-552-1610. www.gulfbeachesmuseum.com Only museum dedicated to the preservation of history of the local barrier island. Preserving island history for tomorrow’s generation. GULFPORT HISTORY MUSEUM 5301 28th Ave. S, Gulfport. 727-327-0505. Free Admission. www.gulfporthistoricalsociety.org The Gulfport Historical Society preserves and celebrates Gulfport culture and history through exhibits and programs that educate and inspire the community and visiting public.

DEC 15 – 30 – Gingerbread Village 16 – Nutcracker Tea 19 – Cooking Class w/SaltBlock Catering GREAT EXPLORATIONS CHILDREN’S MUSEUM 1925 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. (727) 821-8992. www.greatex.org/ Science and humanities exhibits allow visitors to touch, move and actually become part of several pieces. First Sunday of month open special hours for special needs families. MEMORY MONDAYS - First Monday of the Month. A free monthly program for adults with memory loss, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m. Memory Mondays will be a private event focusing on art, music, and movement activities for adults with memory loss and their families and caregivers. Memory Mondays is a social engagement opportunity providing activities that encourage stimulation for people with early stage Alzheimer’s and other forms of dementia. Memory Mondays is a program that will provide a relaxing way for people living with memory loss and their caregivers to interact with others in a casual, judgment-free, non-clinical setting. DEC 31 – New Year’s at Noon JAN 66

HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM 401 W Kennedy Blvd, Tampa, FL 33606. (813) 254-1891. www.plantmuseum.com/ DEC 1 – 23 – Victorian Christmas Stroll. Thru DEC 31 - Imperial Designs: From the Habsburg’s Herend to the Romanov’s Fabergé.

10 am - 5 pm. An exquisite collection of porcelains and decorative arts that harken back to the grand dynasties of 19th century Europe and Asia. Included in the exhibit are a dozen rare Fabergé designs featuring a lacquered box, elegant cigarette cases, a chamberstick, and a gold mounted brooch. Other treasures include Russian eggs presented by tsars; Imperial Porcelain Factory china from imperial yachts including the royal private yacht Livadia; an impressive collection of Herend china from Hungary with patterns ordered by the Russian Tsar, royal houses and eminent customers. HERITAGE VILLAGE 11909 125th St N, Largo. 727.582.2123. www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage Free 21-acre living history museum. New exhibit

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Boathouse display. Sundays – Speaking of History. DEC 5 – JAN 6 – Holidays at the Village JAN 5 – Roc Day Tampa Bay. Join the spinners of Pinellas Weavers Guild who will demonstrate fiber crafts including weaving and spinning, answer questions about fiber crafts and share stories. IMAGINE MUSEUM 1901 Central Ave., St. Petersburg www.imaginemuseum.com Contemporary American Studio Glass. JAMES MUSEUM OF WESTERN & WILDLIFE ART 150 Central Ave, St. Petersburg. www.thejamesmuseum.org The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art revives interest and passion about the history of the American West. The tenacious spirit of Native American, pioneer and immigrant cultures embodies the history of our country. See works in oil, in ink, and stone from the private collection of Tom and Mary James. DEC 8 – Art that POPS!

9 – Author Talk & Book Signing: Michael Blake 11 – Sketching 18 – Mountain Holler and Wandering 26 – 28 – Family ART-ventures

LOWRY PARK ZOO 1101 W Sligh Ave, Tampa, FL 33604. 813) 9358552. www.lowryparkzoo.org MANATEE VILLAGE HISTORICAL PARK 1404 Manatee Ave. E (SR 64), Bradenton. www.manateevillage.org Free open-air history museum

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DEC 15 – An Old Florida Christmas MARIE SELBY BOTANICAL GARDENS 811 S. Palm Ave., Sarasota, 941.366.5731. www.selby.org MONDAYS – Yoga in the Garden DEC 5 – Release Your Creativity Retreat 7 – Festive Poinsettia 12 – Aromatherapy Basics 12 – The Million Orchid Project 12 – Movie Magic – Next Steps 12, 13 – Wine & Design 19 – Christmas Candles 20 – Lights in Bloom 31 – New Year’s Eve at Selby Gardens MOREAN ARTS CENTER 719 Central Ave, St. Petersburg, FL 33701. 727-8227872. www.moreanartscenter.org/ Chihuly Collection Thru FEB 28 – Norwood Viviano: Postindustrial First permanent collection of Dale Chihuly’s work. MOTE MARINE LABORATORY & AQUARIUM 1600 Ken Thompson Pkwy, Sarasota, 941.388.4441. www.mote.org Science, Education, Aquarium

creations graced such notable style icons as Jacqueline Kennedy and Audrey Hepburn. DEC 2 – Florida Sheriffs Youth Ranch Exhibition 12 – Coffee Talk w/Nan Colton: A Self-Portrait 26 – JAN 1 – MFA Store End of Year Clearance Sale 31 – NYE@MFA: Mid-Century Magic – New Year’s Eve Party JAN 9 – Coffee Talk w/Nan Colton: Drawn to Beauty MUSEUMS ON US - The First Full Weekend Of Each Month www.museums.bankofamerica.com Bank of America’s Museums on Us offers free weekend access to Bank of America and Merrill Lynch credit and debit cardholders in Tampa and St. Petersburg. Participating Tampa Bay area museums are: Florida Holocaust Museum, Museum of Fine Arts, St. Petersburg, and the Tampa Museum of Art. Present your B of A or Merrill Lynch credit or debit card along with a photo ID for free general admission. MUSEUM OF SCIENCE & INDUSTRY (MOSI) 4801 E Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL 33617. (813) 9876000. www.mosi.org Gaze skyward - Saunders Planetarium. IMAX Dome Theatre. Over 450 Hands-On Activities. Zip Line. DEC 15 – SkyWatch REPLAY AMUSEMENT MUSEUM 119 Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs www.replaymuseum.org An Interactive museum with 100 pinball games, video games and other amusements from the past.

MUSEUM OF FINE ARTS 255 Beach Drive. NE, St. Petersburg, 727.894.4638. www.mfastpete.org/ DEC 15 through MARCH 31 – Jewels of the Imagination. This exhibition highlights the work of Jean Schlumberger, placing his jewelry and objets d’art as inimitable examples of twentieth-century design. His

RINGLING COLLEGE OF ART AND DESIGN Crossley Gallery, 2400 Old Bradenton Road on the Ringling College campus, Sarasota, FL. RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota, 941.359.5700. www.ringling.org Mondays FREE admissions all day. Thurs – Art After 5 Thurs – Art After 5 Fri – ROAR – Ringling Order of Art Readers Fri & Sat – Bayfront Garden Tours First Sat – Kid’s Quest, Family Workshop Thru DEC 7 – Sheryl Oring: Agitype Thru DEC 14 – Kindred: Recent Photographs by No-

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elle McCleaf 1 – Raphael Xavier: Point of Interest 6 – Holiday Splendor 10 – Art & a Movie: Before Night Falls 13 – Gallery Walk & Talk: The Nativity 13, 20 – Deck the Halls @ Ca’d’Zan JAN 12 – Poetry in Contemporary Cuba 18, 19 – Bill Bowers: All Over The Map

SEASIDE SEABIRD SANCTUARY 18328 Gulf Blvd, Indian Shores. 727.391.6211. www.seabirdsanctuary.com Located on the Gulf Coast, the Seaside Seabird Sanctuary is staffed by experienced professionals and dedicated volunteers who rescue and rehabilitate sick, injured, and orphaned birds. This is the largest non-profit wild bird hospital sanctuary. More than 100 birds live in the sanctuary, representing 20 species.Tours are available. FREE admission. Donations accepted. (727)391-6211. www.seabirdsanctuary.com

SAFETY HARBOR MUSEUM 329 Bayshore Boulevard South, Safety Harbor. 727-724-1562. www.cityofsafetyharbor.com/573/Museum-Cultural-Center The Safety Harbor area has long been an ideal place to live. From the earliest peoples (20,000 B.C.E.) who hunted giant mammals on a peninsula twice the size of present day Florida, to our present city of dedicated preservationists, Safety Harbor has an impressive history. DEC 7 – Betty Fox Band 8 – Mrs. Santa Save the Day

SAFFORD HOUSE MUSEUM 23 Parkin Ct., Tarpon Springs. www.tarponarts.org 70

Restored Victorian home built in 1883. DEC 8 – Victorian Christmas

SOUTH FLORIDA MUSEUM 201 10th Street West, Bradenton FL 34205. (941) 746-4131. www.southfloridamuseum.org/ The Parker Manatee Aquarium, designed to house three adult manatees, holds nearly 60,000 gallons of water, including a medical pool. The pool offers both deep and shallow water, allowing the manatees to maintain natural feeding behaviors. An exhibit area within the facility helps to educate the public about manatee anatomy and offers above and below water viewing. The Museum’s Parker Manatee Aquarium is a second stage rehabilitation facility which provides a temporary home for manatees that will be released back into the wild after having received treatment from an acute care hospital. ST. PETERSBURG MUSEUM OF HISTORY 335 2nd Ave NE, St. Petersburg. 727.894.1052 www.spmoh.org Schrader’s Little Cooperstown is made up of more than 4,800 baseballs, documents, story boards and video screens – connects America’s national pastime with historical events from the

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region and around the world. Thru JAN 3 – The Forgotten War: Korea 1950. Features 36 images from Associated Press photographer Max Desfor chronicling the conflict 68 years ago. ST. PETERSBURG PRESERVATION WALKING TOURS Central Ave. & 2nd St, St. Petersburg (Oct. - Apr.) 727.824.7802. www.stpetepreservation.org National Register listed downtown. Free for members. Suggested donation non-members. ST. PETERSBURG SCULPTURE EXPERIENCE 780 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727.316.1718. www.facebook.com/St-Petersburg-Sculpture-Experience-661090064029529/ Jon Hair Monumental Sculpture combines art, rock and roll and the biggest sculptures you’ve ever seen in one place. More than 100 sculptures from life size to giant size. ST. PETERSBURG WALKING MURAL TOURS Departing from Florida CraftArt, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. Murals and history behind them. 727.821.7391 www.floridacraftart.org

SUNCOAST PRIMATE SANCTUARY 4600 Alt Hwy 19, Palm Harbor, FL www.suncoastprimates.org SUNKEN GARDENS 1825 4th St N, St. Petersburg, FL 33704. (727) 551-3102. www.sunkengardens.org/

Sunken 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. DEC 8 – Winter Succulent Arrangement Workshop CONTINUED

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Attractions & Museums

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15 – Composting Lecture & Vegetable/Wildflower Seed Sale TAMPA BAY AUTOMOBILE MUSEUM 3301 Gateway Centre, Pinellas Park. 727.579.8226, www.tbauto.org Unique collection of vintage cars and vehicles. Cousteau Society Artifacts on exhibit.

TARPON HERITAGE MUSEUM 100 Beekman Ln., Tarpon Springs. www.tarponarts.org History and culture of the Greek community. TARPON SPRINGS HISTORIC DEPOT MUSEUM 160 E. Tarpon Ave., Tarpon Springs. 727.943.4624 Free Admission. www.tarponspringsareahistoricalsociety.org The Historic Train Depot Museum houses the office and Archives of the Tarpon Springs Area Historical Society, which has filled the old station with exhibits telling the story of Tarpon Springs’ past. USF BOTANICAL GARDENS 4202 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa, FL, 813-974-2329. www.gardens.usf.edu

TAMPA BAY HISTORY CENTER 801 Old Water St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2280097. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org/ DEC 4 – Florida Conversations 12 – Sangria & Stories: The Evolution of Bird Art w/John Costin 15 – Tamp History Bus Tour. From Hyde Park to Ballast Point, Ybor City to downtown, historian Fred Hearns leads this four-hour exploration of some of Tampa’s most historic neighborhoods. TAMPA MUSEUM OF ART 120 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa, 813.259.1720. www.tampamuseum.org Friday - Art on The House - 4 to 8 pm Saturday - Art Spot for Families DEC 10 – Cigar Box Infinity Mirrors 15 – Photo Editing TAMPA THEATRE 711 N Franklin St, Tampa, FL 33602. (813) 2748981. www.tampatheatre.org/ A restored classic theatre showing modern independent and classic films. Pre-show Wurlitzer organ concerts. 72

USF CONTEMPORARY ART MUSEUM 4202 E. Fowler Ave, Tampa. 813. 974.4133. www.ira.usf.edu THRU DEC 8 - Miki Kratsman: People I Met - For three decades, Miki Kratsman has been one of the leading chroniclers of life in the Israeli-occupied territories. His photographs—many of them documentary images taken during a previous life as a press photographer for the Israeli newspapers Hadashot and Haaretz—uncover personal stories while revealing the violent, often detached nature of Israel’s military occupation of the West Bank and Gaza. DEC 12, 13 – Breaking Barriers: Selected Work VETERANS ART CENTER 6798 Crosswinds Dr. N, St. Petersburg 813.504.3092 www.vactb.org Provides opportunities for military and veterans to develop and showcase creative and artistic accomplishments. WEEDON ISLAND PRESERVE 1800 Weedon Drive NE, St. Petersburg. 727.453.6500, www.weedonislandpreserve.org

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Ever wonder what archaeologists do with all that stuff they dig up at archaeological sites once the fieldwork is finished? Learn all about how artifacts and other archaeological material get processed in the laboratory; so, we can use them to learn about the past. You will get the chance to sort through, identify, and wash artifacts and other material from real archaeological sites. One Friday a month. DEC 1 – Gopher Tortoises + Prescribed Fire 7 – Intro to Florida-Friendly Landscaping 8 – Paddle the Preserve 15 – Photography Hike 20 – Ethnoarchaeology of Fishing on the Florida Gulf Coast WEEKI WACHEE SPRINGS www.weekiwachee.com/ A natural tourist attraction where underwater performances by “mermaids”, women wearing fish tails as well as other fanciful outfits, can be viewed in an aquarium-like setting in the spring of the Weeki Wachee River. A waterpark, Buccaneer Bay, and boat rides are also part of the attraction.

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S D V D COOLSTUFF!

All DVDs are available on www.Amazon.com

RBG Hero. Icon. Dissenter.

t the age of 85, U.S. Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has developed a lengthy legal legacy while becoming an unexpected pop culture icon. But the unique personal journey of her rise to the nation’s highest court has been largely unknown, even to some of her biggest fans – until now. RBG explores Ginsburg’s life and career. This powerful, thought-provoking documentary follows her life from childhood to her career as a ground-breaking attorney to her current role as a Supreme Court Justice. Taking a stand for an array of voiceless minorities and respectfully dissenting on their behalf, she continues to redefine the American way by fighting for change. She is affectionately known as “Nortorious RBG.”

BLUE BLOODS 8th Season

lue Bloods follows the Reagan family as they continue to follow every lead and work to overcome personal challenges within and outside of the work force. Frank clashes with the new interim mayor and must defend the NYPD from a series of public scandals, while Danny deals with the aftermath of a tragic ccident and Erin reopens old cases and faces off with her ex-humsand. The latest season includes guest appearances by Whoopi Goldberg, Ernie Hudson, Mimi Rogers and Lorraine Bracco. The set includes an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the making of season 8, deleted scenes, a gag reel, and 2 bonus episodes from CBS’ series SEAL Team and Bull.

NCIS: NEW ORLEANS The 4th Season

CIS: New Orleans. In this 4th season, we find a nuclear terror threat, an elusive serial killer, and a mystifying supernatural murder. These are just a few of the pulse-pounding, edge-of-yourseat cases facing the elite NCIS team in the fourth season of NCIS: New Orleans. But no matter the risks, the heroic agents, led by Special Agent Dwayne Cassius Pride (Scott Bakula), remain at the top of their game from the action-packed season premiere to the explosive finale. Also starring Lucas Black, Vanessa Ferlito and CCH Pounder.

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MADAME SECRETARY Season 4

t’s never politics as usual for Secretary of State Elizabeth McCord (Téa Leoni). In Season 4, McCord faces everything from international issues to personal upheavals. Whether she’s being accused of murdering a foreign diplomat, trying to contain a smallpox outbreak, or sending her daughter off to college, there’s no crisis she can’t handle. Her husband, CIA Agent Henry (Tim Daly), stirs controversy by recruiting a former member of the Russian military to work for the Agency. She continues to advise President Conrad Dalton (Keith Carradine), even as she goes toe-to-toe with the White House Chief of Staff Russell Jackson ( eljko Ivanek). Elizabeth’s team gets stronger with the addition of political strategist Kat Sandoval (Sara Ramirez). Collect all 22 episodes in this riveting, politically relevant 6-disc set.

SCORPION The Final Season

nly the most complex cases can be solved by Team Scorpion. This 6-disc collection features all 22 episodes of the fan-favorite series’ last season. Inspired by a true story, Scorpion is a high-octane drama about eccentric genius Walter O’Brien (Elyes Gabel) and his team of brilliant misfits who are the last line of defense against complex, hightech threats of the modern age. O’Brien’s team includes Toby Curtis (Eddie Kaye Thomas), Happy Quinn (Jadyn Wong), and Sylvester Dodd (Ari Stidham.) While this socially awkward group is comfortable with each other’s quirks, life outside confounds them. They rely on Paige Dineen (Katharine McPhee) to translate the world for them.

WWW.NETFLIX.COM

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HOLIDAYS DISNEY STYLE A

New Experiences Await Guests Celebrating the Holidays

t this time of year, Walt Disney World transforms into a wonderland of holiday sights, sounds and tastes. Whether meeting a favorite character or gazing at the twinkling lights of a Christmas tree, indulging in a scrumptious morsel or discovering the perfect gift for family and friends, this is the place where holiday dreams come true. DISNEY’S HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS TOY STORY LAND HOLIDAY DECOR AND MORE – Holiday fun comes to this brand-new land, including an oversized cranberry-and-popcorn garland and a 10-foot-tall Hamm sugar cookie. Guests will hear sleigh bells ringing on Slinky Dog Dash, while Alien Swirling Saucers will offer two holiday tunes with themed lighting. DISNEY JUNIOR DANCE PARTY! Debuts Dec. 22 – This high-energy live show will feature beloved Disney Junior pals including Vampirina and Doc McStuffins. SUNSET SEASONS GREETINGS ADDS LASER EFFECTS – New laser effects complement this popu-

lar holiday experience that transforms the Hollywood Tower Hotel into scenes of the season.. MEET VAMPIRINA AT ANIMATION COURTYARD – The star of hit Disney Junior television show “Vampirina” now greets guests at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. EPCOT INDULGE IN THE HOLIDAY COOKIE STROLL – Guests can stroll World Showcase and purchase delicious cookies at various locations, collecting cookie stamps along the way. Those who acquire five or more stamps will be rewarded with a complimentary “completer” cookie and a cold glass of milk.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in the Magic Kingdom

elebrate the most wonderful time of the year with Mickey, Santa and plenty of Disney friends at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. The special holiday festivities feature live entertainment, dazzling fireworks, a cheery parade and more. The party becomes even merrier with complimentary treats, plus a magical snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A. Guests

will find festive new treats at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, such as the Sugar Rush Jumbo Red Velvet Cupcake or the Vanellope Éclair with rainbow cereal topping. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party features lots of entertainment. Select nights in November and December.

www.Disneyworld.com/Christmasparty

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Candlelght Processional in Epcot CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL NARRATORS TAKE TO THE STAGE – Candlelight Processional is one of the most beloved holiday traditions at Walt Disney World Resort. Featuring a joyous retelling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator, accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and a glorious mass choir, this festive performance takes place annually in November and December. Show times are at 5, 6:45 and 8:15 p.m.

ENJOY FRESH NEW BITES AT HOLIDAY KITCHENS – Guests will savor some of the most delectable holiday dishes from across the globe at 12 specialty kitchens set around World Showcase. A brand-new kitchen this year, L’Chaim!, will feature traditional Hebrew dishes. BID FAREWELL TO ILLUMINATIONS: REFLECTIONS OF EARTH – This nighttime spectacular of fireworks, special effects, flame torches and more includes a special holiday finale from Nov. 18 to Dec. 30. This will be the final holiday season for IllumiNations, as the show is scheduled to conclude at the end of summer 2019. MAGIC KINGDOM PARK DISCOVER NEW MERCHANDISE AND COLLECTIBLES AT MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY – The specially ticketed event will feature a wide range of new items to make everyone’s holiday extra special. HOLIDAY MUSIC HAPPENING IN TOMORROWLAND – A new a cappella group will sing holiday favorites in Tomorrowland during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. NEW SWEET-AND-SAVORY PARTY DEBUTS ON TOWN SQUARE – Tony’s Most Merriest Town Square Party will debut this year as part of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. In this experience, guests will discover a mix of sweet and savory treats including Tony’s meatballs, red velvet cupcakes and more. $.

DISNEY’S ANIMAL KINGDOM CELEBRATE DIWALI WITH FRIENDS FROM “UP” – New this year, a Diwali celebration lights up the new live show UP! A Great Bird Adventure. Diwali is India’s annual Festival of Lights, and this year it adds a holiday touch to the magic of nature. PLAY DISNEY PARKS MOBILE APP - Holiday Cheer Adds to Fun on the Play Disney Parks Mobile App – New this year, guests will discover several holiday-themed offerings in the Play Disney Parks mobile app. More details about holiday offerings on the Play Disney Parks app will be announced soon. DISNEY SPRINGS EXPERIENCE THE REIMAGINED WORLD OF DISNEY – One of the best and most exciting places to shop for holiday gifts is the reimagined World of Disney store at Disney Springs. DISCOVER HOLIDAY MERCHANDISE AT DISNEY SPRINGS – Guests stepping inside the reimagined World of Disney or the festive Disney’s Days of Christmas shop will discover a bountiful array of seasonal delights, including the Nordic-inspired Disney Parks Holiday Collection 2018. SKIP DOWN THE CHRISTMAS TREE TRAIL AT DISNEY SPRINGS – Guests will enjoy a walk-through wonderland of Christmas trees decorated with Disney imagery and characters. This year’s trail features 27 unique holiday trees with new additions inspired by Toy Story, The Haunted Mansion, vintage Mickey and Minnie Mouse, and Star Wars.

For more information, call 407-934-7639. Check online at www.DisneyWorld.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

ATTRACTIONS & EVENTS

Orlando Area HOLIDAYS ANDRETTI KARTING 9299 Universal Blvd, Orlando, FL 32819. 407.610.5020. www.andrettikarting.com/orlando/ Fulfil your need for speed at Andretti Karting, anº indoor go-kart facility. It features electronic go-karting, zip lines, bowling, racing simulators, a ‘sky bar,’ rock climbing, laser tag and a full-service restaurant.

CENTRAL FLORIDA ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDENS 3755 NW Hwy 17-92, Sanford, FL 32771. www.centralfloridazoo.org/ See over 500 animals representing 205 species. Take to the sky and enjoy an aerial adventure course, ZOOm Air Adventure Park or bring your flip-flops and swimsuit to cool-off in the Wharton-Smith Tropical Splash Ground. See domestic animals in the Children’s Zoo, or see the Southeast’s largest collection of venomous snakes and non-venomous reptiles in the Herpetarium.

SkyCoaster, Orlando’s thrills include the Hot Seat swing ride, the spinning Rip Curl and the gravitydefying Enterprise. At Kissimmee, you can go up and down on Screaming Eagles or spin round and round — and then backwards — on Flying Bobs. Orlando’s roller coasters are Freedom Flyer, an inverted steel coaster with a virtual-reality option, and the wooden White Lightning. At Kissimmee, you can choose between the Rockstar Coaster or the wooden Mine Blower — which also goes upside down. GATORLAND 14501 S Orange Blossom Tr, Orlando, FL 32837. (407) 855-5496. www.gatorland.com/ A 110-acre theme park and wildlife preserve located along South Orange Blossom Trail in Orlando showcasing thousands of alligators and crocodiles including four extremely rare leucistic “white” alligators. The free-flight aviary, petting zoo, one of a kind animal shows, natural alligator breeding marsh, and the “thrilling” Screamin’ Gator Zip Line. IFLY INDOOR SKYDIVING 8969 International Dr, Orlando,Florida. (407) 3374359. www.iflyworld.com/orlando/ Soar at IFLY Indoor Skydiving’s facility next to WonderWorks on International Drive, equipped with two all-glass wind tunnels in an open single-story floor plan that allows I-Drive passersby to see fliers in action.

DINOSAUR WORLD 5145 Harvey Tew Rd, Plant City, FL 33565. (813) 7179865. www.dinosaurworld.com/florida/ Dinosaur World features over 150 life-size dinosaur sculptures in over 20 acres. Fossil dig, Dino Gem Excavation, Geode Cracker and more. FUN SPOT AMERICA: 20TH ANNIVERSARY www.fun-spot.com Fun Spot America has premiered Headrush 360, a wild new ride at the family-owned theme parks’ original location on International Drive, which is celebrating its 20th anniversary this month. Standing 40 feet tall, the patriotically painted Headrush 360 is the first part of an overall expansion at Fun Spot’s Orlando theme park. Climb aboard with up to 11 other people and get turned upside down, sideways and just about every other way imaginable in a fast-paced experience you’ll only find in Orlando. Headrush also marks the start of Fun Spot’s second growth spurt in five years, with a 15acre renovation in 2013 bringing wooden roller coasters to both of its Florida parks. Besides Headrush 360 and 78

KISSIMMEE AIR MUSEUM WARBIRD ADVENTURES 233 N Hoagland Blvd, Kissimmee, FL 34741. 407870-7366. www.warbirdadventures.com/air_museum The Kissimmee Air Museum is located at the Kissimmee Gateway Airport in Kissimmee, FL. It houses vintage aircraft from World War II to the Vietnam War including an outdoor showroom.

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LEU GARDENS 1920 N. Forest Avenue, Orlando, Florida 32803. 407.246.2620. www.leugardens.org

1st Monday of the month - STORY TIME is a fun approach illustrating to young children the benefits of reading through songs, rhymes and books. Story Time is for families with infants to 5 years of age. No story time in July and September. Free. thru Jan 31 - Ribbit the Exhibit II - A.J. Cobb’s exhi-

bition will feature 26 whimsical copper frog sculptures located in 18 displays throughout the gardens. Thru DEC - MOVIES AT LEU GARDEN . Experience movies outdoors. Leu Gardens offers a unique setting to see a classic or current feature film. Each month from February to December, no movie in July. Movie goers may bring dinner picnics including alcohol and seating (chairs or blanket) then sit back and enjoy an outdoor movie. Feature Presentation: DEC 7 - National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation Gardens open at 6:00 p.m., Movie time at 7:30 p.m. Enjoy a movie outdoors. You may bring a dinner picnic basket and seating. Alcohol is permitted. This movie is rated PG13. Under 13 years of age requires accompanying parent or adult guardian. MADAME TUSSAUDS 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866630-8315. www2.madametussauds.com/orlando/en/ JUSTICE LEAGUE - Madame Tussauds Orlando’s “Justice League: A Call for Heroes” will allow guests to jump in on the action as a loyal sidekick to Gal Gadot’s Wonder Woman, Henry Cavill’s Superman and Ben AfCONTINUED

CHRISTMAS BRICKTACULAR Select Nights in December

elebrate your holidays the LEGOLAND way. This jolly time of year features a combination of seasonal shows, special treats, twinkling lights and more during Christmas Bricktacular and Kids’ New Year’s Party. These events are included in general admission – no extra ticket required. Don’t miss the Christmas Tree spectacular with dancing lights and songs on the 30-foot tall LEGO Christmas tree. Deck the halls with elves during a new Holly Jolly Jubilee live show (experience ends

12/25). Meet Santa with a twist. Say hello to LEGO Santa and LEGO Toy Soldier! Experience ends 12/25. Ring in the New Year - From December 26-31, enjoy the holiday décor and more. Kids’ New Year’s Party features an amazing nightly fireworks show, dance parties, special building activities and more. On December 31,www.legoland.com/florida/ enjoy a brick drop at a kid-friendly hour!

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www.Legoland.com

ORLANDO ATTRACTIONS & EVENTS fleck’s Batman. Replica props and costumes related to each superhero character’s wax figure will provide an added dimension of authenticity and realism to the immersive experience.

time periods, including original as well as traveling shows. MORSE MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 445 North Park Avenue, Winter Park, FL 32789. 407-645-5311. www.morsemuseum.org/ A collection of the work of Louis Comfort Tiffany as well as fine 19th and 20th century American decorative arts. OLD TOWN 5770 W Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy, Kissimmee, FL 34746. (407) 396-4888. www.myoldtownusa.com/

MENNELLO MUSEUM OF AMERICAN ART 900 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. (407) 246-4278. www.mennellomuseum.com/ Once the private home of Howard Phillips, son of local philanthropist Dr. P. Phillips. Changing exhibitions featuring American art of all genres and

HOLIDAYS AT UNIVERSAL Nov 17 - Jan 6

ut a little mischief in your merry when Universal Orlando unwraps a resortwide celebration that will elevate your season. Experience Christmas in The Wizarding World of Harry Potter as Hogsmeade and Diagon Alley are transformed with wondrous spirit. Treat yourself to Universal’s Holiday Parade featuring Macy’s. And watch the live retelling of Dr. Seuss’s classic holiday tale starring The Grinch in the Grinchmas Who-liday Spectacular.

www.universalorlando.com

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Old Town is an amusement park with rides and outdoor shopping mall. Wednesday night is the Little Darlins’ Street Party while a cruise of classic cars are the free entertainment every Saturday night. A rock and roll band (specializing in tunes from the 1950s and the 1960s) plays prior to the classic car cruise.

flecting his experience as a trained visual artist.

ORANGE COUNTY REGIONAL HISTORY CENTER Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, Florida 32801. 407-836-8500. www.thehistorycenter.org/ ORLANDO EYE 8401 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866228-6438. www.officialorlandoeye.com The Orlando Eye is the largest observation Ferris Wheel on the East Coast.

ORLANDO MUSEUM OF ART 2416 Mills Ave N, Orlando, FL 32803. (407) 8964231. www.omart.org Thru DEC 30. Nick Cave’s work is a seamless combination of sculpture, dance and fashion, re-

Thru JAN 20. Purvis Young and His Angels. Working on materials such as discarded scraps of wood, metal and cardboard found on neighboring streets, Young developed an expressive and visionary style of painting rooted in his experience as an African American living in an economically distressed community. CONTINUED

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION

NOV 17 - DEC 31

t’s Christmas every day at SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. Enjoy festive shopping, delicious food, and stunning live shows. SeaWorld Orlando transforms into a holiday wonderland with over 3 million twinkling lights during SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration. Meet Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends and share Rudolph’s family fun and holiday traditions while making spirits bright. With festive food, stunning live shows, and delightful entertainment, SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration is where holiday memories are made. The season meets the sea daily and is included with park admission.

www.seaworld.com/orlando/events/christmas-celebration/

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ORLANDO ATTRACTIONS & EVENTS ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER 777 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. (407) 5142000. www.osc.org/ Exhibits are designed to inspire curiosity and exploration. The Science Live! programs are designed to bring the exhibits to life. Whether it’s a show in the Digital Adventure Theater or a one-to-one interaction with a volunteer at the Crosby Observatory, the live programs create the kind of impact that can last a lifetime. Thru Jan 26 - ZOO IN YOU & HUMAN PLUS - Discover the living and human-made extensions that help us thrive, from the microbial to the mechanical. Our new fall 2018 traveling exhibits go hand in hand to take you on a journey to explore the anatomy and technology that makes the human body so unique and mighty! Zoo In You introduces guests to the trillions of microbes living inside our bodies while Human Plus explores the low-tech and high-tech tools that extend the abilities of the human body.

ORLANDO REPERTORY THEATRE 1001 E Princeton St, Orlando, FL 32803. 407-8967365. www.orlandorep.com Creating experiences that enlighten, entertain, and enrich the lives of family and young audiences. ORLANDO SEALIFE AQUARIUM 8449 International Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. 866622-0607. www.visitsealife.com/orlando/ Sea Life Orlando will transport you into a magical underwater world filled with a dazzling array of amazing creatures. From face-to-face encounters with sharks, to a hands-on touchpool experience, there’s plenty for everyone to enjoy at the newest aquarium in Orlando. ORLANDO STARFLYER 7001 International Drive, Orlando. 407-370-5353 . www.magicalmidway.com/starflyer/ At 450 feet tall, the world’s tallest swing ride offers open-air views of the destination for up to 24 guests at 82

once, swinging them through the air at up to 60 miles an hour at top speed.

ORLANDO WATERSPORTS COMPLEX 8615 Florida Rock Road Orlando, FL 32824 Phone: (407) 251-3100. www.aktionparks.com/orlando-watersports-complex/ Orlando Watersports Complex (OWC) is a watersports park designed for wakeboarding, wakeskating, wakesurfing, kneeboarding, and waterskiing. The park has two full-size cable systems, a two-tower system, and a boat lake. The full-size cables are equipped with a variety of Unit features and a few custom signature OWC rails. Schedule a boat lesson, or if skiing is your style, take a set with Hall of Famer Wade Cox behind a Ski Nautique 200. OWC also offers stand up paddleboarding, an outdoor fitness area with climbing rope, a pro shop with the newest Hyperlite gear, a snack bar, & a great beach area with grills and picnic tables. PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE 6400 Carrier Drive, Orlando, FL 32819. (407) 2065100. www.piratesdinneradventure.com/ Set aboard an authentically replicated 18th-century Spanish galleon measuring 46 feet long, 18 feet wide with 40-foot masts, the ship is anchored in a 300,000-gallon indoor lagoon with night sky lighting. Surrounding the lagoon is a six-sided showroom of six additional ships where the audience is seated. Voyagers on each of the six ships have their own pirate mascot whom they cheer on as the adventure unfolds with a cast a dozen actors, singers and stunt performers engaging in action-packed exploits, accompanied by cannon blasts, pyrotechnics and plenty of laughs. In addition, more than 150 guests have the chance to play an actual role in each show as the evil Captain Sebastian the Black leads his crews of renegades on a swashbuckling adventure before your very eyes.

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GAYLORD PALMS

THRU - JAN 6

he Gaylord Palms Resort’s signature attraction is ICE!, an experience created by artisans from Harbin, China, home of the world’s largest ice and snow sculpture festival, who carve more than two million pounds of colorful ice into larger-than-life sculptures. This year, ICE! features “A CHRISTMAS STORY,” which has been a staple of holiday movie lists for years. Guests can experience this holiday favorite in a whole new way as the hilarious family tale will come to life through hand-carved ice sculptures and displays, inviting guests to relive the film’s iconic scenes such as The Old Man’s Major Award, Aunt Clara’s pink nightmare and the ultimate triple dog dare at the school’s flagpole, and many more. Also part of the Holiday Celebration enjoy Cirque Creams Unwrapped, Sounds of the Season Concert Series, Snow Tubing, Gingerbread Decorating, Sugary Sweet Storytime, Mrs. Claus’ Christmas Traditions, Naughty or Nice Escape Room. Secret Santa Scavenger Hunt, Santa’s Snow Throw.

www.gaylordpalmstickets.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

COOLSTUFF

! f l e h s k o o B On The CLAIRE’S LAST SECRET

A Claire Clairmont Historical Mystery by Marty Ambrose

873, Florence. Claire Clairmont, the last survivor of the ‘haunted summer of 1816’ Byron/Shelley circle, is living out her final years in genteel poverty, but the appearance of British tourist, William Michael Rossetti, brings hope that she may be able to sell some of her memorabilia to earn enough cash to support her and her niece/companion, Paula. But Rossetti’s presence in Florence heralds a cycle of events that links the summer of 1816 – when Claire conceived an ill-fated child with George Gordon, Lord Byron, when Mary Shelley wrote Frankenstein, and when four tempestuous lives came together – to a tragic death. As Claire begins to unravel the truth, she must go back to that summer of passion to discover the identity of her old enemy.

Marty Ambrose is a college teacher and has been a published writer for 15 years for Avalon Books, Kensington Books, and Thomas & Mercer. She is currently doing research for her next book in the trilogy, called A Shadowed Fate. Severn House • www.severnhouse.com

ST. PETERSBURG PIERS Images of America

Arcadia Publishing www.arcadiapublishing.com

by Nevin D. Sitler

s a new pier rises where the last inverted pyramid stood downtown St. Petersburg, here’s a look back at the history of the piers. Commerce, tourism, recreation, and even the quest for eternal youth were the primary incentives for building piers along St. Petersburg’s downtown waterfront as early as 1854. For more than 160 years, developers and entrepreneurs pushed wooden or concrete structures from the shoreline to the deeper waters of Tampa Bay. Railroads were behind the early development, allowing cargo loads to be transferred from ship to rail with the least amount of effort. A large and profitable fishing industry evolved. Electrically powered trolley cars shuttled tourists to and from cruise ships. Promoters built bathhouses, spas, and bait houses to entice locals and visitors, and casino gathering halls of various, often controversial, styles were proposed, built, destroyed, loved, and detested. Competing piers were built only 10 feet apart. Mother Nature’s elements, including a hurricane, and politics ravaged most of the remaining structures. St. Petersburg Museum of History education director and historian Nevin D. Sitler has combined images curated for a semipermanent pier exhibit with more than 150 other photographs for this entertaining look at the “front door to the Sunshine City.” 84

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DIABETES TIME TRAVEL Past to the Future by Dr. Ajay Varanasi

rom the beginning, this book explores the original observations and early investigations of diabetes and then walks with you through today’s cutting-edge research that may dramatically change how we approach this disease in the future. Diabetes can be a scary diagnosis to receive, and the abundance of information and advice on the subject can be overwhelming and debilitating. Within the pages of the book, you should find enough information to acquire a detailed understanding of this complex disease. There are tips on how to live as a diabetic and a frank discussion of what can happen if the disease goes untreated. The book also includes a 60-day challenge for diet and exercise, and provides scientifically proven weight loss tips. Dr. Ajay Varanasi MD, FACP, FACE is a board-certified Endocrinologist. He is the director at Tampa Bay diabetes, Thyroid and Endocrinology Center. He is a Fellow of the American college of Endocrinology and Internal Medicine, and has been involved in research with publications in well-regarded peer reviewed journals. Independently Published - available on Amazon.com

THE ISLE OF GOLD Most Men Sail for Treasure by Seven Jane

n orphan who sleeps in the kitchens of a brothel, Merrin Smith is desperate to unravel the secrets of her past and find the truth about the events that brought her to Isla Perla as a child. Disguised as a sailor, she joins the crew of the pirate ship Riptide, helmed by the notorious Captain Erik Winters. Winters is known as much for his ruthlessness as for his connection to the proprietress of The Goodnight Mermaid, Evangeline Dahl, who vanished from the island two summers before. The Riptide sails for the mythical island of Bracile, a place that exists only for a moment every two years--and which has never returned any man who has sailed for its shores. The Isle of Gold is an epic adventure of two women-one desperate to save herself, and the other determined to be rescued--and the secret which binds them together. Seven Jane is an author of dark fantasy and speculative fiction. She also regularly writes short stories and poetry that is published in various literary magazines. Seven is a member of The Author’s Guild and Women’s Fiction Writing Association. She lives in New England. The Isle of Gold, will be available in October. Black Spot Books www.blackspotbooks.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Casino/Resort Gaming Scene Tampa SEMINOLE HARD ROCK TAMPA www.seminolehardrocktampa.com JUBAO PALACE NOODLE BAR ENHANCED. The Jubao Palace Noodle Bar has reopened after extensive renovations and enhancements. Due to its popularity and business volume, Jubao Palace Noodle Bar has expanded from 16 seats to 44. Featuring a new upscale and enhanced design, the restaurant has developed a new menu to showcase authentic and traditional flavors of Cantonese and Vietnamese one plate dishes. Located adjacent to the Asian Table Games pit, the restaurant features an open kitchen which gives guests a unique, up-close dining experience.

out the offerings at newly-opened Block 16 Urban Food Hall. Featuring an extensive selection of mezcal, Ghost Donkey serves tasting flights alongside specialty crafted cocktails and late-night snacks. RED PLATE, a sophisticated new dining concept, celebrates traditional Chinese cuisine in a refined setting. Helmed by esteemed Chef Yip Cheung, Red Plate honors traditional Chinese techniques and preparations to present an authentic Cantonese menu with hints of modern inspiration.

Las Vegas THE COSMOPOLITAN NEWS: www.cosmopolitanlasvegas.com THE COSMOPOLITAN WELCOMES THE RETURN OF THE ICE RINK - For the 7th consecutive year, Boulevard Pool transforms into a winter wonderland high above the Las Vegas Strip open to the public. Visitors will enjoy roof-top ice skating on more than 4,200 square feet of real ice, roasting s’mores by the fire, light snow showers, adult renditions of seasonal culinary classics, and breathtaking views surrounded by vibrant city lights. THE COSMOPOLITAN PREMIERES GHOST DONKEY AND RED PLATE - The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas expanded its restaurant collection with the introduction of two new venues recently. GHOST DONKEY, a speakeasy-style mezcal and tequila bar, rounds

WYNN LAS VEGAS’ NEW HOLIDAY SHOW - thru Dec 30 www.wynnlasvegas.com This holiday season, Wynn Las Vegas will unveil “The Holiday Show,” created and directed by Philip Wm. McKinley with choreography by Marguerite Derricks, who were both most recently involved in the re-imagination of Wynn Las Vegas’ “Le Rêve – The Dream,” this musical production combines a score of holiday hits like “Santa Baby” and “This Christmas,” festive comedy and multi-genre dance numbers that will light up the stage at the intimate Encore Theater.

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PLANET HOLLYWOOD NEWS: www.caesars.com/planet-hollywood FLORIDA GEORGIA LINE AT PLANET HOLLYWOOD - Dec 1-11 Fans are invited to join Florida Georgia Line for anything-goes shows in the Zappos theater in Planet Hollywood on December 1, 5, 7, 8, and 11. The multi-platinum hitmakers’ live performances will open each night with Big Loud Records and Atlantic Records artist Mason Ramsey.

CRISS ANGEL’S NEW MINDFREAK, AN IMMERSIVE EVOLUTION OF MAGIC - Opens Dec 19. The brand-new production incorporates cutting-edge technology and boasts more than 75 illusions with 20 nev-

er-before-seen effects that will give fans the ultimate immersive experience, showcasing the iconic Angel on a massive scale. THE VENETIAN / PALAZZO NEWS: www.venetian.com JIM STEINMAN’S BAT OUT OF HELL: THE MUSICAL AT THE VENETIAN - Dec 25 - Jan 6. Jim Steinman’s Bat Out Of Hell – The Musical, the critically acclaimed, thrilling new musical based on one of the best-selling albums of all time, stars Andrew Polec, who thrilled London and Toronto critics with his powerhouse performance as Strat, with The Daily Mirror calling him a “perfect rock and roll icon” and Time Out London saying he sings “with a ferocity worthy of Meat Loaf himself.” THE PALAZZO P RESENTS AN ENLIGHTENED GUEST EXPERIENCE - The Palazzo has unveiled the dramatic results of a design evolution, a renaissance sparked by its remodeled casino floor and renovations to all suites. Inventive guest touchpoints span a refined new collective of intimate cocktail havens, digital art installations within the transformed casino floor, worldclass dining concepts, unique incorporation of earthfriendly touches, and unprecedented levels of access and personalized service through Prestige at The Palazzo, the hotel’s elevated luxury experience. Enlightened elements at The Palazzo include Electra CockContinued....

LADY GAGA Enigma + Jazz & Piano S

ix-time GRAMMYAward-winner, Golden Globe Award-winner and Academy Award-nominee superstar entertainer Lady Gaga will launch her Las Vegas Residency at Park Theater at the new Park MGM resort Friday, Dec. 28. Lady Gaga’s Las Vegas Residency will consist of two separate shows: LADY GAGA ENIGMA, a brand-new odyssey of her pop hits built as an experience unlike any other in Las Vegas, and LADY GAGA JAZZ & PIANO, where she will perform stripped-down versions of her hits alongside music from the Great American Songbook.

PARK MGM

Dec 28 - Feb 2 • May 30 - June 14 • Oct 17 - Nov 8 www.parkmgm.com www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

Las Vegas tail Club, new elements on the casino floor, new dining concepts including Mott 32, new suites, and Prestige at The Palazzo, an elevated luxury experience that offers unprecedented levels of access to premium amenities and personalized services. ZZ TOP TO RETURN TO THE VENETIAN - Jan 18 Feb 2 - Following a wildly successful sold-out five-show run this past April, ZZ TOP will return to The Venetian Theatre limited engagement.

PUDDLES PITY PARTY AT CAESARS PALACE Jan 17 - Feb 9 www.caesars.com Puddles Pity Party - the soft-hearted, 7-foot-tall singing clown - has announced his first-ever artist residency, set for 9 nights at Caesars Palace. Puddles’ set will consist of new material as well as classic, rarely performed songs, along with many performance surprises. Puddles’ entire show will be custom designed to suit the intimate layout and unique decor of the iconic Cleopatra’s Barge. LEGENDS IN CONCERT TO LAUNCH RESIDENCY AT TROPICANA LAS VEGAS - Feb 2019 www.troplv.com Set to debut the second week of Feb 2019, the acclaimed production boasting an incomparable cast of music legends, will bring its 35-year continuously operating musical tribute spectacular to the Legends in Concert Theater as its headlining show. From artists such as Elvis Presley to Aretha Franklin, Sting to Michael Jackson, legendary performers not only look like the stars they portray, but also use their own natural voices to pay homage to their iconic music counterparts. The show will feature a variety of elaborate theatrical sets, magnificent costumes and a full array of incredible special effects.

Thru January 2019

ue to ongoing ticket demand, Celine Dion has announced additional show dates for her Las Vegas residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace. Celine has performed over 1,000 shows to over 4 million fans at The Colosseum. Her second Las Vegas residency is directed by producer Ken Ehrlich and features her biggest hits mixed with timeless classics including her newest song, “Ashes,” from “Deadpool 2.”

www.caesars.com 88

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HOOTERS CASINO & HOTEL DEBUTS PETI & TALLER “THE HOOLIGANS OF MAGIC” www.hooterscasinohotel.com Mateo Amieva and Christian Ford prove that anything is possible in Las Vegas. Traveling the world, this duo built an unforgettable theatrical experience, delighting audiences internationally. Starring Mateo Amieva from the #1 best-selling magic show in the world, Criss Angel “Mindfreak LIVE!” and Comedian with Cirque Du Soleil for over 10 years; Christian Ford aka the Bad-Boy of Magic from the Golden Globe winning FOX Comedy, “Brooklyn Nine-Nine”, “The Hooligans of Magic” will blow your mind with their unique style of grand illusions and side-splitting interactive comedy.

LINQ EVENTS: www.caesars.com/linq FLY LINQ - THE STRIP’S ONLY ZIPLINE - Fly LINQ features 10 side-by-side ziplines, capable of simultaneously launching all riders. The experience is located at The LINQ Promenade, the open-air shopping, dining and entertainment district situated at the heart of the Las Vegas Strip. Guests will be launched from a 114-foot-tall tower and travel 1,121 feet through The LINQ Promenade to the landing tower near the base of the High Roller observation wheel. Riders can choose to ride in either a seated or superhero position.

THE BOOK AT THE LINQ HOTEL & CASINO - The latest evolution of the sports book and bar experience recently debuted at The LINQ. Enhancing the traditional sports book model wherein guests and fans merely gathered to watch sports and bet on gaming action, The Book is designed for guests to take full control of their gaming odyssey. The Book has innovative technology, mobile and self-serve opportunities, and plenty of sports and bar games to engage in. PLAZA TO OPEN OUTDOOR EQUESTRIAN AND MULTIPURPOSE FACILITY www.plazahotelcasino.com Building on the success that its outdoor equestrian facility had last year for the National Finals Rodeo (NFR), the Plaza is expanding the amenity and is making it the only permanent outdoor equestrian center in downtown Las Vegas. In this expanded equestrian center adjacent to the hotel/casino, the Plaza doubled the number of equine stalls to 200, 80 of which will be available for year-round use. NOMAD LAS VEGAS NOW OPEN www.nomadlasvegas.com NoMad Las Vegas is a 293-room luxury hotel experience, located within the Park MGM. The property includes a high-limit casino, Moroccan inspired pool and NoMad Bar and NoMad Restaurant. The hotel’s food & beverage offerings will come from Chef Daniel Humm and restaurateur Will Guidara, the duo behind the renowned Eleven Madison Park in New York - ranked the top restaurant in the world by The World’s 50 Best in 2017. FRIENDS! THE MUSICAL PARODY AT THE D LAS VEGAS www.thed.com FRIENDS! The Musical Parody, a comedic spin-off of the hit TV show, features the six main characters

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Continued....

Las Vegas from the cast: Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Monica, Joey and Phoebe, and will be set to original music that will make audiences laugh, cry and fall in love with these six FRIENDS all over again.

PARK MGM INTRODUCES THE SPA & SALON www.parkmgm.com This serene retreat features a comprehensive menu of treatments delivered in a peaceful space in the heart of Las Vegas’s newest resort. The Spa offers treatment rooms of all different sizes and layouts, creating a feeling of a unique neighborhood spa. Therapists are equipped to bring their services poolside or even perform them in a guest room by special request. Guests are greeted with a glass of rosé or champagne before enjoying a number of nail or hair treatments The Salon offers. THE ONLY OVERNIGHT BUFFET IS AT PALACE STATION www.palacestation.sclv.com Late night diners rejoice. The new Feast Buffet at Palace Station has debuted the only overnight buffet available in Southern Nevada along with an exclusive menu to cater to the late-night dining crowd. Now available daily from midnight to 8 a.m., the special menu features an array of late-night items along with a salad bar and dessert station. NEON MUSEUM EXPANDS BONEYARD’S ELECTRIFIED SIGNS www.neonmuseum.org

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derson, The Red Barn, Chief Hotel Court and Nevada Motel signs recently. Along with Dot’s Flowers, installed in the Boneyard this summer, these signs were all previously displayed on Third Street north of The Fremont Experience.

The Neon Museum significantly expanded the number of electrified signs on view in its Boneyard exhibition space when it added Anderson Dairy’s “Andy” An-

DEAL ME IN

with Mark Pilarski

www.markpilarski.com/

Only Bet What You Can Afford To Lose

When playing craps, I like the pass line with odds, place the 6 and 8 and then feed the come line and place odds on each. My question is on the odds. Most casinos offer 10x odds. Do I need to max that out to get the best house edge, and, if I only double my pass line bet, does this still work to my advantage? To go 10x odds requires a sizable bankroll. Robert C. At the outset, Robert, I do like that you complement your Pass line wager and odds with a Place bet on the 6 or 8. Besides being plenty darn cheap to make – as little as $6 – placing either

TEAM-BASED VIRTUAL REALITY ADVENTURE AT MADAME TUSSAUDS www.madametussauds.com/las-vegas/en/ Madame Tussauds Las Vegas is challenging friends, families and co-workers to “Be a Hero” in the city’s team-based virtual reality adventure. The virtual reality experience allows groups of 2-4 people to participate in up to four, 15-minute timed challenges all while communicating with their teammates.

of those two numbers has only a small casino edge, 1.5%. As for your citing taking odds, Robert, this is a wager that is distinct from all other crap wagers in that odds carry NO house edge. Although this bet doesn’t have a casino advantage, you do have to use it to back up a Pass line wager that does. For instance, let’s say you place a $5 bet on the Pass line, followed by the point becoming a 10. On a 10X odds table, you can back your pass line bet ($5) with $50 ($5 X 10) in FREE odds. So how does the word FREE come into play foryou, Robert? Well, with two, six-sided dice, there are six ways of making a 7 (loser) and three ways of making a winner 10. The odds against your winning are 2:1; but if you win, your Pass line bet is paid at even money ($5), and your odds bet is paid at the 2:1 true odds, bringing you a $100 payoff. With a casino advantage of 1.4% on your Pass wager, grouped with 10X in free odds, the two wagers coupled carry a minuscule 0.18% percent house edge. The casino advantage on your total bet when taking odds combined with your pass line wager on 1X odds is 0.85%; on 2X odds 0.61%; on 5X odds 0.33%, and on 10X odds 0.18%. So, yes, Robert, www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

double odds do work in your favor, but the more odds you take, the greater the reduction in the house edge. Which leads me to what you also stated; “to go 10x odds requires a sizable bankroll.” Correct again! Taking odds, Robert, can be an expensive proposition, especially when dealing with multiples of 10X. For a low-budget gambler, laying $50 on the layout, even for those FREE odds, is some serious Ka-ching. A couple quick seven-outs at the onset of your play and you could easily exhaust your daily gambling bankroll. The lesson here, Robert, and it is an important one, is only to bet as much odds as your gambling budget allows. Another sound gambling strategy is that if you decide to take max odds, pursue the lowest table limit available. When betting odds on a crap game, keep your Pass line bet at the table minimum, and odds at the highest amount that you are comfortable with. Finally, Robert, let’s not forget one important fact: All craps bets come at a cost. Craps is a negative expectation game, meaning, that no matter how you bet, even a $2 Pass line wager with 10X odds, the house always has an edge on your action. 91

Biloxi What’s happening at the Beau Rivage www.beaurivage.com

ocated 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 partnership with Sun Country 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. The flight takes only an hour and fifteen minutes and leaves from the St. Petersburg-Clearwater Airport. Golfers will definitely want to experience Fallen Oak, Beau Rivage’s Tom Fazio-designed golf course, with it’s dramatic elevations and beautiful magnolia trees, ponds, streams and wetlands. 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 air-inclusive travel packages may be made by calling 888.640.8973.

HOLIDAY EVENTS Dec 15-27 - CHRISTMAS DREAMS PRODUCTION SHOW. The story of a young boy who doesn’t believe in Santa is told by an award-winning cast of professional ice skaters, singers and cirque performers who guide the boy with special magic that only the holidays can deliver. Enchanting holiday scenes, high-energy numbers, brilliant solos, a stage of real ice, a magnificent snowfall at each performance and a visit from Santa himself are sure delight the young and old alike. Dec 16 - EXCLUSIVE BRUNCH WITH SANTA Sunday, from 10 a.m.- 2 p.m., Santa and friends make a special appearance in Beau Rivage’s steakhouse, BR Prime. Children are encouraged to wear their best holiday attire for a keepsake photo of their special day with Santa. They can also meet Christmas characters and take home a limited-edition gift. Dec 15-24 - LOCAL CHORAL GROUPS Perform Nightly in the Atrium from 5-7 p.m. Dec 16-20 - PHOTOS WITH SANTA in The Buffet from 5-9 p.m. Two complimentary photos with purchase of an adult buffet. Dec 31 - NEW YEAR’S EVE AT THE BEAU. Ring in the New Year with The Molly Ringwalds in Beau Rivage Theatre.

UPCOMING HEADLINE ENTERTAINMENT Thru Dec 1 - JOHNNY MATHIS CHRISTMAS CONCERT with special guest GARY MULE DEER Dec 6 - 7 - CHRISTMAS with AARON NEVILLE Dec 15-16, 19-27 - CHRISTMAS DREAMS Dec 29 - BETTER THAN EZRA Dec 31 - THE MOLLY RINGWALDS Jan 11 - SMOKEY ROBINSON Jan 18 - ENGELBERT HUMPERDINCK The Man I Want to Be Tour Jan 25 - PETER CETERA SYMPHONY SERIES Christmas Dreams

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WWW.BEAURIVAGE.COM/FLIGHT

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by Dr. Lori Verderame

The Market for Christmas Collectibles M

are especially interested in vintage pieces made in America in the 1940s to the 1970s.

HOLIDAY VILLAGES Famous miniature holiday village “architectural any of us will be displaying our collection of Christfirms” like the McLoughlin Brothers and Built-Rite Toys mas collectibles—both old and new—this holiday firm sold miniature holiday town and village displays in season. Personally, I am going to display a new holiday the early 1900s. A Sears & Roebuck miniature Christcollectible, this Byers Choice Ltd. Caroler in my likemas village would have cost only 69 cents in the midness, which I expect will become 1930s. a cherished holiday collectible After World War II, Bachmann for my family as time goes by Brothers introduced the Plas(see photo below). I have many ticville line of miniature buildings of these popular hand-made to accompany model train set caroler figures made near my ups. These miniature Christmas home in Bucks County, Pennsylvillages command high prices vania. Annually, they make their today at auction and online such way onto window sills, shelves, as the Bliss Company village of and holiday tables as seasonal lithographed cardboard featuring decorations. a pharmacy, opera house, bank, While this is the time to reand post office sold for $16,500 visit Christmas collectibles, it recently. That’s big money for is also the best time to sell off some little cardboard houses. these items. The value for your TOYS & GAMES Christmas collectibles is high Major board game companies right now and if you are a seller, like Milton Bradley introduced you can help yourself drive up games featuring Santa including the market prices by offering the seasonal favorite, The Santa objects for sale that are seasonClaus Game. Today, this holiday ally themed for Christmas and in game in excellent condition is good shape. Here are some of worth more at Christmas time. Dr. Lori Byers Choice Caroler by Byers the popular holiday antiques and When you decorate or display Choice Ltd. collectibles. antique treasures during the ORNAMENTS holiday season, remember to Antique ornaments, produced consider pets, direct sunlight, warm fireplace hearths, from circa 1880 to 1940, are highly collectible. Since and new traffic patterns made by hosting guests in your some of the most beautiful and handmade ornaments home so you retain those cherished objects in good were made in that period of hand-blown glass, these condition for years to come. ornaments are very difficult to find. So, if you discover Happy holidays. one entangled in the garland, hold onto it. One antique ornament may be valued at $100 or more at Christmas Dr. Lori Verderame is an author, internationally synditime. cated columnist, Ph.D. antiques appraiser, and awardStarting your own holiday ornament collection will winning artifacts expert on the History channel’s #1 cost you a pretty penny. Some of the most popular ortreasure-hunting TV show, The Curse of Oak Island. naments are those made after World War II and repreDr. Lori appraises objects at her nationwide events sent everything from astronauts to zebras. While sea(www.drloriv.com/events) and on her YouTube channel soned collectors are looking for kugels and other glass (www.youtube.com/drloriv). blown figural ornaments from Germany, new collectors

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COOLSTUFF!

GUARD YOUR ID

Security Rollers, Stamps & Tapes

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ew fraud-fighting technology makes it easier to Guard Your ID when disposing of mail and unneeded documents. No more shredders. Guard Your ID security rollers, stamps and tapes will stop thieves in their tracks. These products help keep others from seeing your private and confidential information. Advanced Rollers mask private information on glossy paper and labels. Guard Your ID Stamps cover more information with just one impression. Unique stamp pattern masks the letters where applied. Guard Your ID Camouflage Tape hides complete sentences or just a single letter. They are easier and safer to use than shredders as thieves can reconstruct shredded paper. Perfect for bills, bank statements, junk mail and more.

GUMMY Vitamin C Slices

et enough immune-boosting essential vitamins in a fun and tasty way with Rainbow Light Gummy Vitamin C Slices. Naturally fruitflavored gummies offer super boost of vitamin C plus added vitamin E for immune health and added antioxidant protection. They are all natural; Contains no eggs, fish, gluten, milk, peanuts, shellfish, soy, tree nuts, or wheat. These gummies help support healthy skin and blood vessels. $12.99 suggested retail for 30 count box.

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TUBSHROOM Strainer Hair Catcher

nlike regular plugs that go over the drain, TubShroom fits inside, neatly collecting hair around it. When it’s time to clean up, simply wipe TubShroom off and go. No harsh chemicals, no more tangled messes. TubShroom is made out of high grade material making it virtually resistant to corrosion and discoloration. This bathtub drain strainer fits any standard 1.5” tub drain and is guaranteed to catch human and pet hair every time. It’s available in five colors: Clean White, Marine Blue, Neutral Gray, Organic Green, and Autumn Orange. It is not for shower stall drains, but ShowerShroom is! ShowerShroom fits any standard 2” stand-up shower stall drain. And then there’s SinkShroom which fits a typical sink drain of 1.25” in diameter. SinkShroom will also catch jewelry and other undesired objects before they clog your drain — all without interrupting the flow of water. $12.99 retail.

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BANANA PHONE A phone with appeal!

eave the seriousness behind with a Banana Phone. This bananashaped, Bluetooth-enabled, mobile handset connects to your smartphone and lets you talk to your loved ones on a banana. Pair your Banana Phone with your smartphone via Bluetooth and start receiving or initiating calls via Siri or OK Google. It has over 10 hours of talk time and 70 hours of idle time and is rechargeable, with a built in lithium battery with micro USB. The Banana Phone also supports a great cause , as it donates 2% of all revenue to support Gorilla Conservation in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Rwanda. They partner with Gearing Up For Gorillas and The Diane Fossey Gorilla Fund and are certified by 1% For The Planet. $39.99 retail www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

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Bucs Bits

Story and photos by Barbara McGovern

have been covering the Bucs for about 30 years. I love them and every year I think that this the year they will do it. I guess hope springs eternal but I’m about to give up for this year. Fitz Magic can only go so far, he can’t do it alone and the offense can’t do it alone. The Defense is a hot mess. At midseason, does anyone think there is any chance they will have a winning season? Ryan Fitzpatrick has done a good job but Irish luck and talent can only go so far. As much I would love to see Ryan play for years and take us back to the Super Bowl, I doubt that can happen. What about Jameis, should he be the quarterback that the Bucs need for the foreseeable future? That’s not my call but I’m sure that the powers that be are considering that. If the season continues on its downhill slide why not try Ryan Griffin? See what he can do — someone must have thought he had value. Just a thought. What is wrong with the Defense? They look like they should be a force to be feared but they aren’t. A few guys seem to get it but what about the rest, they can’t seem to get their act together. If they can’t, get rid of them and anybody else who isn’t doing their job. The players, the fans and organization deserve better. There have been a lot of good things going on recently. The first two wins had everyone’s hopes up. That was nice but, alas, it didn’t continue. It was great to see Coach Dungy back on the field at R.J. Coach Dungy was inducted into the Bucs Ring of Honor. Not only was the Coach a great asset to the Bucs, but he was — and still is — an asset to the entire Community. He is an honest and honorable man that should be emulated. Evan Smith was nominated for the NFL Salute to Service presented by USSA. He is one of 32 nominees for exemplary commitment to honor and support the Military community. The finalists will be presented in January and be recognized at tNFL Honors at a 2 hour prime time Award to air on 98

Coach Dungy was inducted into the Bucs Ring of Honor.

February 2nd. “This a huge honor” Smith said. He grew up in a military Household. His dad was in the Army; his grandfather served in the Navy and his brother is the 3rd member to serve. He and his wife have 12 relatives who have, or are serving in the Military. We thank them for their service. Darcie Glazer Kassewitz owner, President of the Tampa Bay Buccaneers Foundation, and the Glazer Family Foundation along with Bucs players, Demar Dotson, Will Gholston, Chris Goodwin, DaVonte Lambert, Jason Pierre-Paul and Keith Tandy welcomed 100 students from local schools inside the teams new indoor practice facility for the Foundations launch of the new Jr. Bucs School Program. This program will impact almost 200,000 students on both sides of the Bay. This will build on the success that the Buccaneers Academy’s encouragement for students to advance academically. The Bucs want to bring this to all the children in our community, Darcie Glazer Kassewitz said. The Tampa Bay Foundation’s mission is to uplift our community, inspire our youth, and drive

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social change through programs that enrich lives of families in our region. To learn more, visit BUCCANEERS.com/community. The Bucs O-line helped to make Thanksgiving special for 1,000 Tampa Bay families on November 20th. The Bucs and Publix Supermarkets teamed up to provide a full Thanksgiving dinner, from soup to nuts, at the 12th. Annual “Turkey Time with the O-Line.” Players including Carl Beneock, Carl Boozer, Alex Cappa, Demar Dotson, Ruben Holcomb, Ryan Jensen, Michael Liedtke, Ali Marpet, Donovan Smith and Lenore Wester were on hand to help distribute the dinners. The Bucs cheerleaders, Capt. Fear and three dozen staff members plus players families helped with the task. The meals were made possible by a $35,000 donation by the O-line. To kick off the event The Buccaneers Foundation Social Justice Fund presented a matching $35,000 grant to the nonprofit organization Feeding Tampa Bay. Feeding Tampa Bay’s more than 550 agency pantries will help to positively impact community members to enjoy the Holiday Season. Publix and the Bucs are assets the Tampa Bay community and we appreciate everything that they do.

is always next year. Early in December more than 50 players and staff from the Bucs joined with other NFL teams to support nearly 50 different charitable causes throughout the MY CAUSE,MY CLEATS campaign. This a league-wide initiative that offers players the opportunity to promote charitable causes that are important to them through creative cleat designs. They players showed very interesting and creative cleats. The entire team participated. In Dec. players started sharing pictures of the cleats and the stories behind their creative designs. More than 800 players in the NFL will be showcasing their causes they support. The themes represent hundreds of charitable organizations, from ones that support the military, focus on bullying prevention and many others. This a wonderful opportunity for fans of every team to understand that the players consider football more than

a game. I know what the Bucs do for the Tampa Bay community and also know every team in every city does the same for their community. The players will have the opportunity to raise fund for the causes they support at NFL Auction; 100% of the funds raised will be donated to charities the players support. Fans may bid on game-cleats at NFL.com/ Auction. In addition fans can visit www.nfl.com/mycausemycleats to learn more about each player’s chosen cause Tampa Bay will host the 2021 Super Bowl. When the team hosts a Super Bowl they have to play one international game which could be in London in 2019. As another season comes to an end continue to watch and support our Bucs. To all the fans. Please a wonderful and blessed Christmas and a happy and healthy New Year. GO BUCS!!!

Good things happen to those how help others. After the Bucs “Turkey Time” they ended Nov. with a well deserved win and then on Dec.2nd. they won that game. Imagine how different their season would have been if they had only won one or two the squatters they lost?Ah well, who knows, may-be they can still pull of a winning season. If not there www.AccentOnTampaBay.com

The “I Wanna Go There!” Travel Page

Woodstock, Vermont

ermont is one of the best places to experience fall, and an escape to Woodstock should be on everyone’s must-do list. This little slice of Vermont is a great destination at any time of year, but the local businesses, farms and historic sites make fall exceptional with events throughout the season. Woodstock’s farmers market is a weekly tradition and a fun event throughout most of the year, but visit in autumn for delicious seasonal food and fall fun. Visit area farms for seasonal specialties and activities, including apple picking. Three quarters of Vermont is covered with forests, and the state has the country’s highest density of maple trees, making fall foliage one of the most incredible natural shows you can catch. 100