Vol. 6, Issue 12, December 2018
®
Your community. Your magazine. ™
The Premier “Shop Local” Community Magazine Directly Mailed To 15,000 Homes In Carrollwood, Lake Magdalene & Avila
20 Minutes to Fitness 20 Minutes A Week Will Change Your Life! By Carla Selby Exercising more is a great resolution. It can help you lose weight, build muscle, make daily tasks easier to perform and improve your overall health. But let’s be honest, sticking to a workout routine can be hard and time consuming! Typical gyms are usually crowded, loud and full of judgmental stares. You may also find yourself waiting
around for equipment you don’t necessarily know how to use. After a few frustrating months, your commitment to exercising slowly fades… and so does your muscle mass. After age 30, we lose eight to ten pounds of muscle per decade, unless we do something to reverse that trend.
See “20 Minutes” on page 18
Shopping Small in Carrollwood By Matt Selby Local businesses have been the heartbeat of economies all around the world ever since people first began trading for goods and services. It’s for this reason our focus has always been on highlighting the very best local businesses our area has to offer. When my family first started publishing in the Tampa Bay area back in 1994 things were very different. We started publishing in New Tampa and Bruce B.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE From the Editor................................................5 TECH TALK With Bob The Computer Guy.......6 2018 Oakdale Christmas Light Display............12 Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town™..14-15 Holiday Recipe - Christmas Tree Cookies........22 Epilepsy Services Foundation...................24-25 Upcoming Events......................................26-27
Downs, once known as “the road to nowhere,” was a fraction of the size it is today, created initially to accommodate the residents of New Tampa as they made their way in and out of the newly developed area. At the time, there weren’t many businesses or households. I believe the mailed distribution of the entire zip code was sub 6,000 homes and businesses back in those days.
See “Shopping Small” on page 10
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 3
4 DECEMBER 2018
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
CARROLLWOOD TAMPA BAY NEWS & LIFESTYLES VISIT US ONLINE AT: TBNEWSANDLIFESTYLES.COM
220 S. SAFFORD AVE. TARPON SPRINGS, FL 34689 MAIN OFFICE: 813-928-6124 FAX: 727-942-2432 ADVERTISING E-MAIL: INFO@NNLFLORIDA.COM
Publisher / Assistant Editor Matt Selby / matt@nnlflorida.com
Art Director Tony Sica
Editor Carla Dubis
General Manager Jim O'Reilly
Advertising Sales Matt Selby Jim O'Reilly Mike Bird
Billing Managers Doreen Selby Tina O'Reilly
Photography by Mike Bird (c) 2018 Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles. All Rights Reserved. Carrollwood Tampa Bay News and Lifestyles is published monthly and distributed by the U.S. Postal Service to over 16,000 Homes in Carrollwood. Tampa Bay News & Lifestyles is not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Nothing that appears in this publication may be reproduced in any way without consent of the publisher.
I hope you all had a wonderful Thanksgiving! With the holidays comes the pure joy of spending quality time with family and friends, often those that live far away. For my husband Matthew and I, this will be our first time hosting a Christmas party at our new home. I personally love spending time with my relatives, I love Christmas and I love cooking, so I jumped at the chance to have everyone over for this magical Holiday. Little did I know what I was getting myself into! I knew we would have to entertain a lot of people since my husband has a big, wonderful family, but I was not counting on having some of my own relatives fly all the way from Italy and others from Venezuela so they could come and spend the Holidays with us. What an unexpected, nerve wrecking blessing! Add my sister’s husband’s family that’s coming down from Maine and my sister in law’s husband’s Cuban family to the mix, and we have around 51 guests coming over and one big MULTICULTURAL CHRISTMAS PARTY in the making! My mom and I are coming up with a “multicultural” Christmas menu. It will include pulled pork, beans, rice and fried plantains (Cuban/ Venezuelan), Seafood/Lobster (Maine), Lasagna / Pasta (Italy) and many different kinds
of desserts! There will be something for everyone to enjoy. I have slowly started buying some Christmas decorations, prepping the guest rooms and bathrooms, I’m also waiting on some quotes to rent some tables and chairs, and I am calling my friend Brandon from Mosquito Hunters so he can send his team to spray our backyard. We don’t want anyone getting bit by those little suckers. It’s been over a decade since I spent the Holidays with some of these relatives, and it will be the very first time our families are meeting each other. A lot has changed in the past 10 years... we’ve lost quite a few loved ones, but we’ve gained well over 50 amazing relatives! Incredible people from different generations, backgrounds, nationalities, and ethnicities interacting with one another, telling stories, sharing laughs and making new, beautiful memories… that’s what the Holidays are all about. Christmas should not be about
lavish gifts, the best gift of all is the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other. Before I wrap up, I want to say Happy Birthday to my cousin Jose Francisco! Jose is turning 23 on Christmas day, so we’re having a cake to celebrate not only Jesus’ birthday but Jose’s as well. Jose Francisco has always been like a brother to me, he was the one who flew from Italy back in September 2017 to walk me down the aisle at Sacred Heart church, after my father unexpectedly passed away a couple of months before our wedding day. Happy Early Birthday Jose! I love you a lot! The memories you make with the ones you love is not just an important thing, it’s everything! Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year from everyone at Tampa Bay News and Lifestyles! Carla Selby.
TECH TALK With Bob The Computer Guy Today’s Topic: When to Buy a New Computer Greetings! I am receiving emails from readers asking if they need to fix their existing computer or scrap it and buy a new one. This is a difficult question to answer without actually inspecting the computer myself. My goal in this column is to give you things to consider before buying a new system. Some people believe that they need to upgrade their existing system or buy a new system every time Apple or Microsoft releases a new operating system (OS). The OS is the basic software on a computer that allows other programs/apps to function. If you use a word processing program to write letters, the word processor (WP) needs an OS to help the WP save files, print files, etc. Think of the OS as the stage (platform) where the other programs/apps perform. I could make much more money if I advised my clients to upgrade their OS every time a new one is released. However, I do not advise my clients to jump into a new computer or upgrade their OS unless they need it. My goal is to advise my clients to do what’s best for their current situation. Yes, I want to make money but I want my clients to know that they will get an honest recommendation from me and only advise them to upgrade if they actually need a newer OS. After all, wouldn’t you be happier keeping hundreds of dollars in your pocket instead of spending it on something you really don’t need? So, how do you know if you need a newer OS? If your computer is running Windows 7 should you upgrade to Windows 10? I always say, “do not upgrade unless you have a program/app or piece of hardware (printer, scanner, etc.) that requires the newer OS.” If your computer functions properly there is no need to upgrade just because a newer OS has been released. One trap users fall into with a newer OS, (by either upgrading their current computer or buying a new system) is that some of their
6 DECEMBER 2018
existing hardware or software is not compatible with the newer OS. This is a big issue for those users who are running Windows XP and jump to Windows 10. They sometimes learn that their printer or a program no longer works with the newer OS. Now they have to spend even more money on a new printer and new program. Yikes! Most hardware/software manufacturers design their products to eventually become functionally obsolete. That is why I always advise my clients to schedule a “pre-purchase consultation” with me so we can determine what an upgrade is really going to cost them. It is money well spent because if we determine that you need to upgrade, you will be more knowledgeable when you walk into a store or shop online. Every client who has done that is happy because they bought what they needed and was not “upsold” to something they didn’t need. Clients who schedule pre-purchase consultations typically find that they usually save more money on their new computer purchase than what they paid for the
consultation. I’m not saying that sales people in these stores are looking to take advantage of you, it’s that they don’t know your whole story (since they don’t come to your home or office) to truly determine what best suits you. Some clients have even paid me to accompany them to the store as liaison between them and the sales person. We’ll also browse the internet with you if you prefer to buy online. Some of the emails I receive ask me to recommend a make and model for an upgrade. I will
not do that because it is not my intention to endorse or denounce any particular brand publicly in this column. Plus without an onsite pre-purchase consultation it would not be appropriate for me to make a recommendation. However, if we do have a pre-purchase consultation we will discuss brands and model numbers that are suitable for your specific needs. Let’s quickly touch on hardware. The main issue with laptop/notebook computers is the battery not holding a charge anymore and/or getting extremely hot when connected to the power supply. In this is case the battery can be removed to lower the heat produced by the laptop. However, this only works if you plan to keep the computer in one place. If you need mobility then replacing the battery is cheaper than buying a new computer. As long as there are no software issues, most hardware issues can be resolved for less money than a new purchase. Have a tech question? Email it to TechTalk-TBNL@ BobTheComputerGuy.NET. Questions will be selected by the popularity of a topic and answered in this column. If you have a more urgent need or have a unique situation you may schedule an appointment with one of my Professionally Certified Technicians by calling 727-534-4000. Until next time, Happy Holidays!
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 2018 7
8 DECEMBER 2018
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 2018 9
“Shopping Small”-
continued from page 1
By the late 90’s into the early 2000’s, New Tampa doubled, then tripled in size, and with the new developments, came an influx of local business. Although It wasn’t until 2013 my family and I expanded into Carrollwood, it was an area many of our employees lived, and they couldn’t wait for us to bring our community magazine to their backyard. Over the years, hundreds of businesses have come and gone, from small mom and pops to large box stores. This year was particularly hard on many companies large and small alike. Ask just about any local business owner, and they will tell you the summer of 2018 was one of the slowest they’ve experienced since the recession. Large corporations typically have the experience and wallet to deal with the slower times of the year, but not all small business owners are so lucky or financial prepared for seasonal fluctuations. With the increase of large corporations and chain stores (Take a look at the Outlet Mall’s chain to small business ratio), many local businesses have closed down or sold their assets and ceased operations. This is a problem on a number of levels, but economically, local companies provide many advantages that outweigh larger corporations. Because of their benefits, it is essential to patronize local businesses whenever possible to help preserve the local economy in our area. A significant advantage of locally owned, small businesses is that more of the money spent in these establishments stays in the area they serve. A recent study done in Austin, Texas, by the American Independence Business Alliance, found that out of every $100 spent at a nationwide chain store, only about $13 stayed in the local economy. However, out of every $100 spent at a locally owned and operated business, about $43 remained in the local economy. This provides a massive boost to other local businesses, workers, and families of the
10 DECEMBER 2018
Carrollwood area of Tampa. We’ve been fortunate enough to build an engaging audience of locals who care about their community. We’re happy to promote our neighborhood business partners, and by partnering with us, they continue to stay visible in their market, even during the slower times. At the end of the day, that’s what we are here for. We exist to help the small business owner get his/her name out there. The fantastic small businesses you will find within our pages are here to serve you. On behalf of all the locally owned and operated businesses across the Carrollwood area and beyond, we thank you for shopping local!
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 2018 11
Holiday Announcement
2018 Oakdale Christmas Light Display FREE and FUN for the Whole Family!
Looking for some wholesome. beautiful, and FREE family fun attractions during the Holidays? Well. look no further! The Oakdale Christmas Light Display event is amongst the largest and longest running home displays in the United States. This is their 42nd year. It’s been taking place yearly since 1977! They were among the top 3 finalists on NBC’s Today Show. They have been featured on HGTV’s “All Out Christmas Special” and in PEOPLE Magazine. Description: * One-half acre in size, App. 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.
12 DECEMBER 2018
Dates/Times: Beginning Friday, Nov 23 thru Jan 3, 2019, 6 pm to 10 pm, nightly (rain or clear skies). Location: Oakdale Christmas House 2719 Oakdale Street S, St. Petersburg, FL Directions: Take I-275 to exit 22 (old exit 9), which is 175E. Turn right on 4th St., heading south. Go 1 mile, crossing over 22nd Ave S. Next street on left is Oakdale. Go 2 blocks, park or look. Phone: 727 822-5562 Website: ChristmasDisplay.org FREE and FUN for the Whole Family!
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 2018 13
IT’S CHRISTMAS EVERY DAY AT BUSCH GARDENS TAMPA BAY’S CHRISTMAS TOWN™
Experience the joy and wonder of the holiday season every day at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town™. New this year, guests can enjoy millions of twinkling lights, Christmas shows and Sing-A-Long Train, and of course visits with Santa and Rudolph® - now EVERY DAY of the season - starting Nov. 17 through Dec. 31. Christmas Town features extended hours on weekends and additional select dates with even more new experiences, including an all-new holiday show, indulgent culinary treats, visits to Rudolph’s® Winter Wonderland, nighttime experiences on Florida’s best thrill rides and so much more. Christmas Town is included with any daily admission or annual pass, and is open until 10 p.m. on select dates. There is so much to experience and see during Christmas Town. New this year at Dragon Fire Grill is the holiday spectacular “Christmas Is...” featuring
14 DECEMBER 2018
contemporary music that celebrates seasonal traditions. The new show joins a festive line-up of returning favorite shows including Christmas on Ice, Elmo’s Christmas Wish, the Holiday Hills Band, Carol of the Bells light show and the Christmas Town Sing-A-Long Train. The NEW 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. No Christmas celebration is complete without a visit from St. Nick and guests will have the opportunity to take a photo with Santa as part of their experience. Brunch with Santa is available at the Serengeti Overlook Restaurant on select dates beginning Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come early with the
whole family and make Christmas Town the unforgettable backdrop for your holiday card! Santa will be awaiting your visit at Santa’s House presented by Coca-Cola®. Additional
amazing photo opportunities are around every corner: the enchanting twinkling light tunnel leading into Stanleyville, all your favorite characters at Rudolph’s® Winter Wonderland, Ice
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
Annual Passes start as low as $9.99 per month for Florida residents. In 2019, Pass Members can look forward to unique benefits, the park’s 60th anniversary celebration and exclusive ride time for the spring opening of Tigris, Florida’s tallest launch coaster.
and Poinsettia princesses along pathways, larger-thanlife Cookie Monster® and Elmo® nutcracker figures along the Sesame Street® Safari of Fun walkway, and playful penguins at the holiday-themed Penguin Point. Guests will discover even more merriment in the Christmas Town Village, celebrating 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
For complete event information, including dates, times and packages, visit ChristmasTown.com. Be the first to know about events, special deals and future announcements by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s blog and social media channelson Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
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. For a gift that gives all year, shoppers can select a new Busch Gardens Annual Pass with benefits to enjoy exciting events, world-class coasters, and up-close animal encounters. From Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, guests can select the pass with perks they want most – all with no down payment. For a limited-time, Busch Gardens
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 2018 15
16 DECEMBER 2018
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 2018 17
“20 Minutes”-
continued from page 1
The speed of muscle loss roars into high gear after age 50. Once muscles go, it sets off a domino effect of travails from bone thinning to loss of mobility to heart and vascular diseases. Loss of muscle also causes a decline in our body’s metabolic rate, which leads to weight gain and erosion of the immune system. What if I told you that to get fit you don’t need to exercise more… you need to exercise smarter. You can now get fit by committing to working out only once a week and for 20 minutes. That’s a more manageable resolution, don’t you think? Conveniently located in Carrollwood, 20 Minutes to Fitness® uses a scientifically based fitness approach called slow cadence (or slow motion) resistance training. The technique involves working out on specially designed post-rehab medical grade equipment and physical therapy machines in ultra-slow motion, causing your muscles to work harder and producing far better, faster results (50 to 59% better) than traditional strength training. So instead of completing each rep at the traditional weight lifting pace, you will be lifting and lowering the weights in ultra-slow motion - eliminating momentum and forcing your muscles to do all the work. Because of the nature of the training regimen, it only takes 1-1/2 to 2-1/2 minutes of exercise per machine to reach peak performance. This approach traces its roots to a 1982 University of Florida School of Medicine study that showed that extremely slow weight lighting improved muscle strength, bone density and overall function. Research shows that the 20 Minutes to Fitness® slow cadence strength training protocol can quickly set off a cascade of positive physiological changes in your life and it builds the strong lean muscles that provide numerous health benefits - the most significant of which is the slowing down and even preventing the complications commonly associated with the process of aging. 20 Minutes to Fitness® slow cadence also results in a number of other proven benefits: • • •
Reduces the risk of exercise-related injuries to almost zero. Increases your bone density, which helps prevent and reverse osteoporosis Burns calories by increasing the body’s metabolic rate, controlling
18 DECEMBER 2018
•
•
weight and improving body tone. Controls arthritis by inducing the manufacture of synovial fluid and forcing it to circulate throughout the joint spaces. Improves emotional well-being by increasing the flow of oxygen and the release of positive mood-altering chemicals in the brain.
Your Workout Only Takes 20 Minutes! “It’s a truly personalized experience that’s unlike what most people associate with exercise,” explains Angela Begin, co-owner and manager of 20 Minutes to Fitness® Carrollwood. “Our personalized semi-private sweatless workout sessions are only 20 minutes and once a week! This small time commitment makes reaching health goals more achievable.” Sweatless? “We keep the temperature at 68 degrees, because this allows our clients to perform all the exercises without overheating,” explains Angela. You will have a Certified Personal Fitness Coach with you at all times! During these 20 minute sessions you will be training on six to seven pieces of specialized equipment, while having your own certified personal fitness coach by your side at all times. Your coach will guide you, motivate you, calibrate the equipment for you and lead you through each exercise. 20 Minutes to Fitness® works by appointments only, so you will never have to wait around for equipment or get in anybody’s way. No need for workout gear! No tennis shoes, no problem! You can come in wearing your regular clothes. “As long as you can move around easily, you can wear whatever you want,” says Angela. And since you don’t even break a sweat there’s no need to go home to shower and change. So you can be in and out and back to your routine wearing your same outfit! 20 Minutes to Fitness® is safe and effective for everybody! Men and women, from their teens to their 90’s are welcomed and encouraged. “We have clients in their teens to their early 90s,” says Angela. “Our scientifically engineered equipment adjusts for persons who are just starting out as well as athletes that have been training all their lives. We also have many clients with injuries such as knee replacements and hip replacements.”
Real Testimonials From Satisfied Clients From All Paths Of Life: “Osteoporosis - that’s why I came to 20 Minutes to Fitness®. While I really do like that I can get my workout done in just 20 minutes a week, I’m there to keep my bones from breaking. In 1995, I participated in a research project which proved that the resistance training offered by 20 Minutes builds bone tissue and improves bone density. I was 45 then but my bone density was that of a 65 five year old. So, I made a commitment to resistance strength training and I am now a
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
loyal client of 20 Minutes. My most recent bone screen showed that I had the bone density of a 40 year old, and I am 56 now. It’s great to be young again!” Grace Edwards Commercial Developer “People ask me what’s the difference about this program. I tell them it’s in the outcomes. After taking 800-1600mg of Motrin for many years for Arthritic symptoms in my knees, hands and shoulders, I stopped. I had 8 months of 20 Minutes to Fitness® and the aching pain was gone. I’m eighteen pounds lighter, much stronger, and feel better all the way around. Even my golf game is stronger. It’s the best health investment I’ve ever made in myself.” Linda Lemon-Steiner - FACHE, RN, MPH “I have been training with weights and competing in road races for over twenty years. I have tried many different training methods but none have built my strength as quickly and as effectively as 20 Minutes to Fitness®. I have to give them credit for allowing me to post my best half-marathon and 5k times at recent races.” Roy Borrego - Financial Advisor and Triathlete.
“My basketball coach has noticed a major improvement on the court since I’ve started training with 20 Minutes to Fitness®”Jeff Giesler - High School Student My husband Matt has been involved in athletics his entire life. He played college football as well as a brief stint in professional football before hanging up his cleats for good a couple of years ago. He’s lifted weights since his early teens as well to get a competitive edge in the sports he played. The type of training he was use to was nothing like slow cadence training, especially when he was working out for football, which consisted of highly explosive movements that focused on speed and power. I knew he would be in for a treat when Angela offered him a session to experience what 20 Minutes to Fitness® was all about. Matt had this to say about his recent experience at 20 Minutes to Fitness®, “I loved it! It’s very different than the workouts I usually incorporate into my fitness routine. I felt more with about half the weight I usually push around. The weight may have been
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
lower, but the time under tension my muscles experienced was well over double the time I usually spend on sets. It’s been about 48 hours since my workout and I feel fantastic. My muscles feel slightly sore, just enough to know I am recovering, but nothing too bad at all. I highly recommend this type of training. I can promise you, it’s like nothing you’ve ever experienced before. My trainer Nicky was awesome as well!” Schedule your FREE Orientation session today! Contact 20 Minutes to Fitness® today to schedule your complimentary orientation and workout session with one of their experienced personal fitness coaches by calling 813.664.8888. You can learn more by visiting: http:// www.20minutestofitness.com During your free orientation session, the experienced and caring staff at 20 Minutes to Fitness® will determine your specific goals and needs, and will work with you to reach and maintain them. 20 Minutes to Fitness® is located at 11610 N Dale Mabry Hwy. They are open Monday - Thursday from 8:00am to 6:00pm. Friday from 8:00am to 5:00pm and Saturday from 9:00am to 1:00pm. Hours can be extended at clients request.
DECEMBER 2018 19
20 DECEMBER 2018
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
Holiday Recipe - Christmas Tree Cookies Cookies are basically the point of Christmas, right? Whether you’re making them for a party, Santa, or just a cozy night in by the fireplace, there’s always a reason to whip up a batch of cookies during the holidays. Ask yourself, would you rather decorate a real tree, or a sugar cookie Christmas tree?
YIELDS: 16 - 18 I TOTAL TIME: 0 HOURS 30 MINS INGREDIENTS COOKIES • 3/4 c. unsalted butter, at room temperature • 1 c. sugar • 1 egg • 1 tsp. vanilla extract • 1 tsp. almondt extract • 2 1/4 c. all-purpose flour • 1 tsp. baking soda • 1/4 tsp. kosher salt FROSTING • 1 c. butter • 4 c. powdered sugar • 1 tsp. vanilla extract • 3 tbsp. water or milk • Green gel icing color • 3 tbsp. red and white pearl sprinkles • 18 yellow star sprinkles DIRECTIONS
• Preheat oven to 350º and line two cookie sheets with parchment. • Cream butter and sugar together until light and fluffy, 3 to 4 minutes. Mix in egg and vanilla and almond extracts. In a separate bowl, whisk together dry ingredients. Add dry ingredients to wet ingredients and mix until smooth. Dough will be thick. • Make three sizes of cookie dough balls: 1 teaspoon, 2 teaspoons, and 3 teaspoons. (You should have an even number of each.) Place medium and large cookies on a cookie sheet and press down slightly on each. Bake until center looks mostly cooked, 7 to 8 minutes. Place smallest balls of dough on another cookie sheet and press down slightly. Bake until center looks mostly cooked, 5 to 6 minutes. When cookies are done, remove from oven and let cool 2 to 3 minutes, then transfer to a cookie rack to finish cooling.
22 DECEMBER 2018
• Make frosting: Beat butter until smooth. Add half the powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Add vanilla and 2 tablespoons water and mix until smooth. Add remaining powdered sugar and mix until smooth. Add green gel icing color to frosting and mix until your desired shade of green. • Assemble cookies: Get one size of each cookie. Fit a piping bag with a medium sized star piping tip (I used Wilton 32) and fill bag with green frosting. • Pipe a swirl of frosting onto the largest cookie, then add the second medium sized cookie on top. Pipe a swirl of frosting onto the second cookie, then top with the smallest cookie. Pipe a swirl on top of the final cookie and decorate with a star and round ornament sprinkles. Continue building cookie trees, then refrigerate until ready to serve.
Visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com for more Holiday Recipes! Happy Holidays!
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 2018 23
Community Announcement Epilepsy Services Foundation is Celebrating 45 Years of Service!
On August 1, 2018 the Epilepsy Services Foundation and Brittany Vanhook, Brittany’s Blankets, visited St. Joseph’s Children’s Hospital. As part of ESF’s outreach program, they presented warm and cuddly blankets and epilepsy stuffed animals to hospital employees for children at St. Joseph’s and those on the neurology floor. For children/teens, it is often a frightening experience to be in a hospital. Sometimes a simple gift like a cuddly blanket and stuffed animal can lift their spirits.
24 DECEMBER 2018
With great pride and sincere gratitude, the Epilepsy Services Foundation (ESF) is now celebrating 45 years of service. Since 1973 ESF has served children, teens, young adults with epilepsy and their families. Its mission is to create a better future and environment for persons affected by epilepsy. To do this ESF provides community education & awareness programs, information & referral support, support groups for each age group, a “Train-the-Mentor” epilepsy education program, a hospital visitation program, a camp program, and two family retreat programs, college & medical scholarships, medical support services and charity events. For more information about their mission and a list of future events please visit the website listed below.
As part of our 45th anniversary, we are celebrating Tom Orth’s significant contributions to our organization, and welcoming Alysia Peddy as ESF’s new Executive Director. Alysia has served ESF as a board member for ten years and brings a wealth of knowledge and a passionate commitment to our families. She is the mother of two children affected by epilepsy and has served as an advocate for families with special needs throughout Florida. Together Tom and Alysia form a cohesive team and we are excited about the many lives they will touch in the coming years. ESF is a 501(C)(3) corporation and was incorporated in the State of Florida on May 4, 1973. The ESF State of Florida corporation
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
document number is 726327. For the last five years, the Great Nonprofits Organization selected ESF as one of the top-rated health non-profits in America. Gary Englund President, Board of Directors
Contact ESF: Epilepsy Services Foundation 4628 North Armenia Avenue Tampa, FL 33603 https://epilepsysf.org/
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
DECEMBER 2018 25
MARK YOUR CALENDARS
Carrollwood pacabana” and “Mandy” as well as Christmas favorites. Manilow has sold over 85 million albums and has 50 Top 40 hits. Do not miss the chance to hear the legend in person!
Christmas in the Wild
It’s the most wonderful time of the year… as ZooTampa at Lowry Park transforms into a world of holiday cheer for Christmas in the Wild! The festivities kick-off on “Black Friday” on November 23 and continue for 18 delightful nights. Families will experience a merry and memorable evening and immerse themselves in the spirit of the season. From the stunning sights of thousands of twinkling lights, delectable seasonal holiday treats and refreshments, to the wonder and enchantment of wildlife at night – Christmas in the Wild will offer guests of all ages a whimsical holiday experience. Admission is included in single day admission and annual membership. Pay for a Day Get the Rest of 2018 ticket holders can attend for free, excluding the blockout dates Nov. 26-Nov. 30. After 4pm Admission is only $24.95 per person! Learn more at www.ZooTampa.org/Christmas. MORE INFORMATION Date(s): November 23, 2018 - December 30, 2018 LOCATION: 1101 W Sligh Ave Tampa, FL 33604 https://www.facebook.com/ events/1998471400234654/
Barry Manilow
The pop music icon Barry Manilow will take the stage on Friday, December 7 for a special “A Very Barry Christmas” engagement. Fans will be in for a treat when they hear Manilow perform his greatest hits like “Co-
26 DECEMBER 2018
MORE INFORMATION Date(s): December 7, 2018 Hours: 7:30 PM LOCATION: 401 Channelside Dr Tampa, FL 33602
Snow on 7th Parade Snow on 7th Parade
Ybor Collaborative is hosting its 8th Annual Snow on 7th 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 on Saturday, December 8th. 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 MORE INFORMATION Date(s): December 8, 2018 Hours: 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM LOCATION: 1800 E 9th Ave Tampa, FL 33605 https://www.facebook.com/ events/646849455697473/
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
HOLIDAY POPS
Pure holiday magic you can’t buy at the mall, featuring the velvet voice of American Idol star and St. Pete native Michael Lynche. A perfect gift for the whole family. MORE INFORMATION Date(s): December 14, 2018 Hours: 8:00 PM LOCATION: 1010 N W.C. MacInnes Place Tampa, FL 33602 https://www.floridaorchestra.org/ event-view/?event_info=182
Christmas Lane
Christmas Lane is a winter wonderland at the Florida Strawberry Festival. Dazzling displays with trees ranging from 4 to 40 feet, thousands of lights and more! Open November 23 to December 24, each Thursday through Sunday (and Christmas Eve!) from 6-10pm. Nightly live entertainment from orchestras, jazz bands, singers, singing groups, choirs and more! Fritzy Brothers One Man Circus will dazzle and delight you with fire eating, juggling, unicycling and more (except December 7) Santa will be ready to hear your every Christmas wish! Take your own photo with Santa or have one taken and printed for $12 (2 for $20) The expanded KidZone is included in your admission ticket! Write and mail your letter to Santa, decorate your ornament and hang it on the wishing tree, make an amazing creation at our LEGO station and get your face painted! Meet Frosty the Snowman, Rudolf, elves and more. Take your perfect family photo with Christmas characters at the special designated photo spots. Enjoy the story of the first Christmas
under the stars! Living Nativities are presented each Thursday, Friday and Saturday night with music, live animals, an outdoor set and an angel! Food! Our concession will offer drinks, hamburgers, fries, chicken strips, popcorn and more! Rides! Rides are $3/each or $15 for an unlimited armband. Everyone must have a ticket or armband to ride. We will have a selection of rides for children and teens/adults. There are varying height requirements. The event is wheelchair accessible (no chairs are available for rental). No pets allowed. Only service animals will be permitted and we ask that they wear their service items to prevent other guests from petting them, etc. Parking is free! Ticket pricing: $5 plus tax for ages 13 and up $3 plus tax for ages 4-12 Free for ages 3 and under Rides are a separate ticket: $3 per ride $15 for an armband for unlimited rides *ALL riders must have a ticket or armband (including parents) www.ChristmasLane.com
93.3 FLZ Jingle Ball
Featuring Shawn Mendes, Marshmello, Khalid, NF, Bebe Rexha, Bazzi and Sabrina Carpenter. 93.3 FLZ’s Jingle Ball 2018 is part of the national iHeartRadio Jingle Ball Tour Presented by Capital One, the season’s biggest annual music event that captures the holiday spirit of the iHeartRadio app. MORE INFORMATION
Date(s): December 15, 2018 Hours: 7:00 PM LOCATION: 401 Channelside Dr Tampa, FL 33602
Cirque Musica Holiday
CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY presents Wonderland - a fun-filled concert experience for the whole family featuring the talented cast of Cirque Musica accompanied by holiday songs performed by a live symphony orchestra. Audiences will journey into a world of “Wonderland” with amazing acrobats, aerialists, hilarious hijinks and holiday cheer. The show blends the spellbinding grace and daredevil athleticism of today’s greatest circus performers with the sensory majesty of the greatest holiday music of all time. Get Tickets: http://www. soundchronicle.com/tickets/Cirque_ Musica_Holiday_Tampa_FL_2018-1216_19-00 MORE INFORMATION Date(s): December 16, 2018 Hours: 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM LOCATION: 4202 East Fowler Ave Tampa, FL 33620
NYE Wrap Party 2018: Austin Powers
Tampa has plenty of swanky champagne-and-sequins New Year’s Eve parties, if you’re into that kind of thing. But for the rest of us who like our celebrating a little more on the classic-movie-themed-historic-theatre side, Tampa Theatre’s third-annual NYE Wrap Party is going to be groovy, baby (yeah!) as the majestic movie palace goes shagadelic on
For Advertising Info 813-928-6124 I info@nnlflorida.com or visit tbnewsandlifestyles.com
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 cocktails (Mini-Me-mosas, anyone?) and a cash liquor bar will also be available. Tickets on sale now! MORE INFORMATION Date(s): December 31, 2018 Hours: 9:00 PM LOCATION: 711 N Franklin St Tampa, FL 33602 http://tampatheatre.org/annualevent/nye-wrap-party/
Outback Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade
The Outback Bowl New Year’s Eve Parade takes place in the Ybor City Historic District and features numerous floats and marching bands from the two universities playing in the bowl game, along with more than a dozen high school bands from around the country. A pep rally takes place immediately following the parade which runs along 7th Avenue. MORE INFORMATION Date(s): Hours: 5:30 PM - 7:30 PM LOCATION: 4211 W. Boyscout Blvd. Suite 560 Tampa, FL 33607 http://www.outbackbowl.com
DECEMBER 2018 27