Osprey Observer Brandon/Winthrop November 2022

CELEBRATING 20 YEARS OF PUBLISHING POSITIVE COMMUNITY NEWS

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & SANTA’S VILLAGE RETURNS TO COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS ON S.R. 60

The Tampa Bay Festival of Lights will open on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, Novem ber 24, and will run till January 1, 2023. Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights will transport guests into a beau tiful winter won derland with cus tom light displays and its enchant ing Santa’s Vil lage. The festival surrounds guests in over 1 million twinkly lights as they drive 2 miles through a number of various themed light displays.

With fun for the whole family, the elaborate light displays feature ev erything from clever racoons toasting marshmallows to a giant gingerbread house with candy and cakes, and from a dynamic western display to a Mrs. Claus’ kitchen, the displays are sure to bring magic to everyone’s night. Santa’s Village is filled to the brim with activi ties and treats for those young at heart. Santa’s Interactive Barnyard features camel rides, crafting sections, hot choc olate, apple-cider donuts and even visits with Santa himself.

A few new additions to Santa’s Village have been made this year. Families can take the plunge on the Arctic Plunge In flatable Snow Tube, take a spin on the Reindeer Carousel, and take a ride on the special Holiday Train. Those more inclined to explore can take a self-guid ed walking tour of the enchanting Hometown Hillsborough Historical Vil

By Meghan Reyes

lage. The village consists of the fairgrounds’ per manent display of antique farming equipment and replicas of build ings from the past, all decked out in tradition al decor. Anoth er new addition to the festival is the Holiday Mar ket, where fami lies can find the perfect gifts for those they love. The market will take place on Fri day and Saturday evenings.

Along with Santa’s Village and the Christmas light spectacular, a few ad ditional events will take place during this year’s festival. Holiday movies and video shorts will be shown on the big screen, while picnic tables and fire pits have been added to allow for even more seating. Live music featuring Dennis Lee and Tampa artist Katie Lombardo will be available on select dates. Lee will be performing on Friday and Saturday, November 25 and 26 and December 16 and 17. Lombardo will be performing on Friday and Saturday, December 9 and 10.

Further information regarding perfor mances by local organizations and spe cialty evenings will be announced this month.

Tickets for this year’s event are on sale now and cost $25 per car or $80 per bus. For more information about the festival, please visit www.hillsborough countyfair.com.

The Arts Council of Plant City will pres ent its 35th an nual At Home for the Holidays Home Tour on Sunday, De cember 11 from 1-4:30 p.m. The Holiday Home Tour will feature three festively decorated area homes plus the Sparkman House Luxury Bed & Breakfast. Tick ets for the event are $25 per person.

In addition to the tour, the Arts Council of Plant City will o f er refreshments at the Plant City Photo Ar chives, located at 106 S. Evers St. in Plant City. Re freshments are included in the cost of your ticket.

According to Maggie Carlisle, chair of the Hol iday Home Tour, “Each home is festively decorat ed. All of the homes reflect the personality and traditions of the in dividual homeowners.” Carlisle added, “Each guest tours the homes on their own.” Once you pay for your ticket, you will receive a map showing where each home is located.

Last year, approximately 250 people toured the homes. According to Carlisle, “People from as far away as Homosas sa Springs come to the tour. We never know how the homes will be decorated. One year, a dentist’s home featured a tree decorated with all types of den tistry tools. We tell the homeowners to decorate the way they normally would at Christmas.”

The funds raised at the Holiday Home Tour help the Arts Council of Plant City provide many di f erent programs for the community. This includes high school

By Kathy L. Collins

scholarships given to four

City

and

High School. Stu dents must be interested in pursuing a degree in the arts. Appli cations can be obtained from each school’s guidance counselor in March 2023. Awards are made at the endof-the-year assembly at each school.

In addition, the Arts Council of Plant City is the sponsor of a variety of community events. It sponsors among oth er things, the annual Seward sculptures, ban ners on the light poles in downtown Plant City, Meals on Wheels, Empty Bowls and a caboose at Railfest.

Additionally, they provide youth devel opment at each of the above-mentioned high schools for drama, band and or chestra.

For more information and to get tick ets to the annual Holiday Home Tour, please contact Carlisle at mcarlisle@ trinkle-law.com or Marsha Passmore at mappmore@msn.com.

deserving seniors from Plant

High School, Durant High School

Strawberry Crest

the Holidays on Sunday, December 11. Ticket holders get to tour three private homes and the Sparkman House Luxury Bed & Breakfast. All locations are festively decorated and will put you in the holiday spirit.

TAMPA ELECTRIC’S AWARD-WINNING

MANATEE VIEWING CENTER NOW OPEN FOR THE SEASON

The Manatee Viewing Cen ter is the an chor attraction for the Florida Conservation and Technology Center (FCTC), which is a pub lic-private part nership to show case nature and technology. In addition to Tampa Electric, the partners in clude The Florida Aquarium and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC).

“We’re proud to be the showcase for Tam pa Electric’s commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Stan Kroh, manager of Land and Stewardship Programs for Tam pa Electric. “The Manatee Viewing Center proves that you can have fun while learning about the natural treasures of Florida.”

When the water temperature of Tampa Bay is 68 degrees or colder, manatees gath er in the clean, warm water discharge canal of Tampa Electric’s Big Bend Power Station, sometimes by the hundreds.

Manatee Viewing Center visitors can see the mammals up close from multiple board walks and vantage points. Visitors can also enjoy meeting the stingrays, critical animals that rely on a healthy Tampa Bay ecosystem, and even touch them gently as they glide past in the touch tank. Guests can hike the nature trail and take in the vistas from the 50-foot observation tower. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy at a table near the base of the tower. To help support the manatee rescue and research eforts, be sure to stop at the gift shop on the way out.

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The manatees have gathered in the canal to find refuge from the cold since the early 1970s. The Tampa Electric discharge canal is a state and federally desig nated manatee sanctuary that provides critical

protection from the cold for these unique, gentle animals. Each season, the center draws nearly 400,000 visitors — for a total of 7 million.

Admission and parking at the Apollo Beach facility are free, and the boardwalks are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act for our guests’ convenience. Contributions are welcomed and will direct ly support protecting manatees, preserving their habitats and educating the public.

The Manatee Viewing Center’s regular hours are 10 a.m.-5 p.m. every day now through April 15, except Thanksgiving, Christmas and Easter. (The facility closes at 3 p.m. on Christmas Eve.) Comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Please note that no pets are allowed, only trained ser vice animals.

Visit the center online at www.tampa electric.com/manatee or call 813-228-4289 for more information.

Tampa Electric, one of Florida’s largest in vestor-owned electric utilities, serves about 800,000 customers in W. Central Florida. Tampa Electric is a subsidiary of Emera Inc., a geographically diverse energy and services company headquartered in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.

TICKETS FOR THE 2022 UNION HOME MORTGAGE GASPARILLA BOWL ARE NOW ON SALE TO THE GENERAL PUBLIC

With just over a month until the 2022 Union Home Mortgage Gasparilla Bowl, ESPN Events is proud to announce that tickets are now available for pur chase to the gener al public. The 15th edition of the bowl game will take place at Raymond James Stadium on Friday, December 23 at 6:30 p.m. Last year’s in-state matchup between the UCF Knights and Florida Gators hosted a soldout crowd of 63,669 fans.

The Gasparilla Bowl welcomes two teams from among the American Ath letic Conference (AAC), Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC), Big 12, Conference USA, Mid-American Conference (MAC), Moun tain West, Pacific 12 Conference (Pac-12), Southeastern Conference (SEC) and inde pendent programs, Brigham Young Universi ty and Army. The event annually showcases many top college-football players who go on to play in the NFL.

The week leading up to the game ofers student-athletes and fans a variety of inter active events across the Tampa Bay area to celebrate Bowl Week and get into the game-day spirit. From visits to local sites and attractions to a loud and proud Block

Party at the Tampa Convention Center, Gasparilla Bowl activities honor the rich history of Tam pa’s famed Gaspar illa Invasion, our community’s rich waterfront and the fun of football in Florida. Stay tuned for more announce ments.

Fans can now purchase tickets for the 2022 Union Home Mortgage Gasparil la Bowl tickets with lower bowl seating available starting as low as $40, making it an afordable option for holiday family fun. Club-level seating and access starts at $75. Taxes and service gees will apply.

College-football fans who want to catch all of the action with their favorite krewe of 10 or more can purchase discounted group ticket packages by calling 813-301-6900. Group ticket information is also available at www.gasparillabowl.com/tickets/.

Gasparilla Bowl is owned and operated by ESPN Events, a division of ESPN with a portfolio of 34 collegiate sporting events nationwide.

For more information on this year’s bowl game and the bowl week events, please visit www.gasparillabowl.com or follow along on social media @GasparillaBowl.

Each season nearly 400,000 visitors are drawn to see the many manatees gathered in the warm waters of the Tampa Electric discharge canal

DROP OFF LETTERS TO SANTA AT HIS SPECIAL OUTPOST LOCATED AT THE REGENT

The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview, is once again keeping alive the much be loved tradition of writing letters to Santa. The mail box at the special North Pole dropof location will be available the week of Thanksgiving.

Beginning on Sunday, November 27, a life-size Santa will be stationed at the door closest to the mailbox so children can see him watching as they drop their letters into the special mailbox. This is also a great pho to opportunity. There will be other spots around the building that will be good for photo opportunities.

Beginning the week of Tanks giving, children can mail letters to Santa at the very special North Pole outpost at Te Regent, conveniently located in Riverview. Letters received by Tursday, December 15 will get a special response crafted by Santa’s helpers.

Children whose letters are received by Thursday, December 15 will receive a specially drafted personal response from one of Santa’s helpers before Christmas. In addition, they will receive a special gift courtesy of Chick-fil-A. Teachers who want to use this as an opportunity for a class project, and who are not providing addresses, must have the letters delivered at least one week before school lets out for the winter holidays in order to get the responses.

By Kathy L. Collins

According to Shannon Keil, chief executive of cer for The Regent, “This event started in 2020 as a safe, kid-friendly activ ity during COVID, and it has continued to grow.”

Keil added, “We love see ing the kids drop of their letters and the excite ment they have on their fac es.”

The Re gent is the primary sponsor of the event.

Tammy Holmberg, own er/operator of Chick-fil-A at Lake Brandon Village, is also a sponsor. Keil said, “Tammy is always ready to help out the community. We love having Chick-fil-A partner with us.”

The Regent was once again named the number one wedding venue in Tampa Bay. Keil said, “We love our community, and we are very happy to be the place where peo ple celebrate the great moments in their life.”

The Regent is home to many commu nity-centric events including weddings, fundraisers, galas, retreats and sweet 16 celebrations. The Regent is a place for di verse interests to come together and build connections and a sense of civic pride.

For more information, please visit www. experiencetheregent.com.

A NEW AND IMPROVED RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB

In 1988, the first home was built in River Hills. The Riv er Hills Coun try Club was conceived as a daily-fee golf fa cility with ame nities that far surpassed any in what was a fair ly remote area of Hillsborough County at that time.

River Hills Country Club opened the Joe Lee-designed course and clubhouse in 1989.

The developer realized that Tampa was a burgeoning market and built a community that ofered a great golf course, superb dining, clay tennis courts, Junior Olympic-sized pool and tre mendous value just as it does to this day.

“We have a strong bond with our mem bers,” said River Hills HOA President Paul Brooks. “Our members are ambassadors for River Hills. They invite friends who are not member to come and check out our amazing facility. We ofer membership to people who live in River Hills as well as to people who live outside of River Hills. We also ofer membership options to fit most budgets.”

When the development was sold out, the developer sold the club to a growing golf course operator in 2000. That ownership resulted in multiple sales of the property over the past two decades until the River Hills Community Association (HOA) pur chased the club to enhance home-values

By Libby Hopkins

community and to create an ameni ty worthy of the lush and beautiful development. Mis sions of $2 million of improvements were initiated through 2020 to the property to renovate, refresh and rejuvenate a private country club within one of the most respect ed communities that prides itself on exquisite landscaping, nature and protecting the environ ment. “Our focus is still the same as it was when we started, and that is to make River Hills Country Club the best country club around,” Brooks said. “We continue to make improvements to River Hills, and it’s almost as if River Hills is new and improved.”

Brian McManis recently became the general manager of River Hills Country Club. “I’m excited to be a part of the team,” McManis said. “From the first day I started with the team, I jumped right in on making improvements to River Hills. We are very family friendly, and we pride ourselves on all of our programming, in cluding our junior programming for golf, tennis and swimming.”

If you would like to learn more about River Hills Country Club, you can visit its website at www.riverhillscountryclub. com or call 813-653-1554. River Hills Country Club is located at 3943 New Riv er Hills Pkwy. in Valrico.

Te team at River Hills Country Club prides itself on making the club on of the best in the Brandon community.

PRAYER TO THE BLESSED VIRGIN

(never known to fail)

O Most beautiful fowers of Mount Carmel, fruitful vine, splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me here you are my mother. O Holy Mary Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succeed me in my necessity (make request). Tere are none that can withstand your power. O Mary conceived without sin pray for us who have recourse to thee (three times). Holy Mary I place this cause in your hands (three times). Say this prayer for three consecutive days and then you must publish and it will be granted to you. T.O.C.M.B.

CHRISTMAS TOWN AT BUSCH GARDENS CELEBRATES HOLIDAY CHEER WITH NEW SHOWS, FIREWORKS & MORE Staf Report

Celebrating its 10th anniversa ry, Busch Gardens Christmas Town re turns as the longest holiday celebration in the Tampa Bay area ofering brandnew experiences to celebrate the holidays and create memories to cher ish for a lifetime.

Christmas Town joyfully bundles millions of twinkling lights, uplifting shows, iconic holiday light displays, culinary delights and award-winning attrac tions such Iron Gwazi every day now through January 9, 2023. Running for 57 consecutive days, the beloved event is included with park admission.

Several all-new activities make this year’s Christmas Town its biggest celebration yet.

A reimagined Holiday in the Sky fireworks show comes to life with a colorful display of festive fireworks while an added spec tacular water fountain show dances to the rhythm of a reimagined soundtrack with classic holiday tunes. Holiday in the Sky will take place on the Festival Field on select event nights. A new mesmerizing and en chanting musical light and projection show will adorn the Serengeti Overlook building, running daily every 15 minutes starting at 6 p.m. Christmas with the Celts is a won derful combination of Christmas Carols and Irish dance that will captivate guests. The renowned group of vocalists, musicians and dancers will perform live at Stanleyville The ater’s stage on Friday, Saturday and Sunday from Friday, December 16 through Sunday, December 25.

In Land of the Sweets, guests will find the Sugar Plum ballerina stilt walker and her Cavalier soldier, the newest characters to join the Sugar Plum Princess in her mag nificent new realm. And, right in the heart of Jungala, guests will be in awe with a new 32-foot-tall Christmas tree surrounded by a red-and-white winter wonderland.

Returning again is Santa’s North Pole Experience, presented by Co ca-Cola, a unique experience where jolly elves guide guests to interact with Santa in his workshop. Holiday tales come to life for Storytime with Mrs. Claus, and Rudolph the Rednosed Reindeer is joined by Clarice and Bumble at Ru dolph’s Winter Wonderland.

Also returning are ‘Christmas on Ice’ at the Moroccan Palace Theater, the home of Busch Gardens’ longest-running holiday show, Elmo’s Christmas Wish in the Sesame Street Safari of Fun area of the park and Three Kings Journey, the musical tale of the three wise men’s famed journey to Bethlehem, at Dragonfire Grill during select nights from Friday, November 18 through January 8, 2023.

The Holly Jolly Express is back to trans port guests into the celebration as they loop around the park aboard this sing-along jour ney playing the favorite songs of the season.

Delicious eats and specialty cocktails await all guests at this year’s Christmas Town.

The absolute best way to experience the jolliest of all seasons at Busch Gardens is with a Christmas Town Sampler Lanyard. Starting at $40 and redeemable at the nu merous cabins located throughout the en tire park, samplers ofer the best value for guests and will be available in quantities of five and 10. An exclusive 12-item sampler for the same price as a 10-item is available for all pass members. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to consume alcoholic beverages.

Guests are encouraged to please check Busch Garden’s website at www.christmas town.com before visiting to learn which event components are available at each date.

Busch Gardens Christmas Town is back with both new and returning experiences for everyone.

BIKES FOR CHRIST TRYING TO FILL A NEED THAT IS GREATER

Many individuals have sufered this past year, finding themselves in sit uations they never could have imag ined. Loss of a job, loss of afordable living … times are hard for many right now. A bicycle can be life-changing in so many ways. Bikes For Christ needs your help this Christmas season to contin ue to help those less fortunate.

Bikes For Christ currently partners with over 70 organizations in the Tampa Bay area by supplying bicycles as trans portation to the clients with whom these agencies work. Its main focus is veterans trying to overcome hardships, underprivi leged children, and anyone who is in need and is trying to climb out of the grips of poverty or the situation they are in. Along with every bike it gives out, it also pro vides a Gospel of John, as it wants that individual to know that Christ cares for and loves them.

Founder Pat Simmons stated, “Christ mas is always the time of year when we reach out to the community for that extra bit of help we need. Plus, we always try to do something special as well. The past two years we have had the opportunity to send bicycles to children in Africa by part nering with The Tampa Bay Area Liberi an Community Association, and we have close to 25 more on their way there this year. However, the need continues to be great here at home in our own communi

ty, so we are reach ing out to ask for more assistance.”

At this time, Bikes For Christ is asking the public for dona tions of good, used bicycles in ‘adult’ sizes. Simmons said that “85 percent of the orders our partner organiza

tions place is for men’s bicycles, and those are always the greatest need.” Bikes do not have to be perfect, but it does want them to be as close to rideable condition as possible. That way repairs can be done quicker and they can be in the hands and feet of the individuals who need them sooner. Monetary donations are always greatly appreciated as well. Donations options are here: www.bikes4christ.com/ donations.

FLORIDA ORCHESTRA GOES DIGITAL WITH QR CODE CONCERT PROGRAM Staf Report

Staf Report With the start of its 55th sea son, The Florida Orchestra (TFO) is making a bold and exciting change that will improve access to a wealth of concert infor mation while reducing our impact on the environment. Now all concert information will be provided via digital program pages.

This change allows TFO to provide far more than it could print in a program book: videos, repertoire and sample mu sic; full program notes; full bios of guest artists, musicians and conductors; venue information and maps; resources about the orchestra; and much more.

Everything can be easily updated, so guests will always have the latest infor mation.

guest art ists and music be fore you go. You’ll also find more resources on the web site to en hance your experience, including

bios of TFO musicians, the TFO Blog, fre quently asked questions, more about the mission and history and education and community programs.

One of the many benefits of this change is less waste. Program books are useful for a few hours in the concert hall, yet they produce tons of trash. As an arts leader in our community, TFO is committed to doing more to increase en vironmental sustainability. The scarcity and high cost of paper also are factors that cannot be ignored.

Among the many accolades Bikes For Christ has received, the most noteworthy was being honored with the 2020 WEDU ‘Be More Empowered’ award for “small nonprofit making the biggest impact in the Tampa Bay area.”

Bikes For Christ is a 501(c)(3) tax-ex empt organization, EIN: 82-2374095. Its mission is to provide bicycles to those in need while also sharing the love of Je sus. Its main focus is veterans who are working to reestablish themselves, un derprivileged children and anyone who is struggling and working towards self-suf ficiency.

Visit Bikes For Christ at www.bike s4christ.com.

And it’s all in the palm of your hand on your smartphone, tablet or other device. The website is mobile responsive, which means it automatically adjusts content to look great and be readable at any point size on any device. In the concert hall lobby, simply scan the QR code with your phone camera and it will take you directly to the program page for that evening’s concert.

No need to wait until the concert, as digital program pages can be accessed at https://floridaorchestra.org/ from anywhere anytime at least a week before the performance. Take your time to read the excellent program notes for Mas terworks concerts and get to know the

If you prefer to have printed informa tion, you still have that choice. Before the concert, click on the printable pro gram notes with repertoire and print at home. The program will also be available at TFO’s information table in the lobby to view it or take a photo of it with your phone.

A lot of tradition surrounds playbills and program books, but TFO believes this change will give you better access to more information and make your con cert experience even more meaningful.

If you have questions or want to learn more about the digital program pages, please email TFO directly at admin@ floridaorchestra.org.

THAN EVER

TFO is excited to announce the new all digital program pages

14TH ANNUAL FISHHAWK TURKEY TROT SET TO SUPPORT SEEDS OF HOPE FOOD BANK

Fourteen years af ter she helped her children earn com munity service hours as Newsome High School runners stag ing a Thanksgiving Day race, Leda Eaton is leading the charge for the 14th annual FishHawk Turkey Trot and the Seeds of Hope food bank it supports.

That both Seeds of Hope and the trot have become fully entrenched in Eaton family lore is a given, as it is equally es tablished in FishHawk, where thousands of runners from throughout Tampa Bay arrive for the holiday race. Their aim is to support both the race and the food bank, which students help run under the mentorship of adult leaders.

“It’s a diferent world we’re living in right now,” Eaton said. “So many kids aren’t ex posed to community service hours that involve giving back to the community in a meaningful way. We emphasis the impor tance of doing something selfless for oth ers.”

Leading the efort are students from nearby schools, including Bloomingdale, Newsome and Riverview high schools, along with homeschooled students “and adult leaders who mentor these kids and want to see them succeed,” Eaton said. Strawberry Crest High School in Plant City has been in volved in the efort as well.

With its mission in mind, to nourish hope through community service, the Seeds of

By Linda Chion

Hope food bank is open on Thursdays for box ing food items deliv ered a day earlier, and which are distributed from 5-7 p.m., or until supplies are depleted.

Space for the indepen dent, nonprofit food bank is provided at the Presbyterian Church of Bloomingdale, at 710 E. Bloomingdale Ave. in Brandon.

Now in its 12th year, the demand for Seeds of Hope food boxes has been steady and growing, with 350 box es distributed weekly.

With inflation and a bear economy coming on the heels of a health pandemic, “there’s just a lot of need out there,” Eaton said. “Every week we’re getting new people. I don’t know how to put that genie back in the bottle. It started with COVID, and we haven’t seen it let up since.”

In support of the food bank, the FishHawk Turkey Trot kicks of on Thursday, Novem ber 24 at 5668 FishHawk Crossing Blvd., with races that include a timed and untimed 5K walk/run, 10K timed walk/run and 1-mile fun run. Also on tap, a 250-yard mini run for “kids and kids at heart,” photos with turkey mascots, dancing to the “Wobble” song, arts and crafts and special ribbons for the top 100 finishers in each race age category. The fee for each entrant includes as well a race T-shirt and medal.

Registration fees increase after Tuesday, November 22. For more information and to register, please visit www.sohopefl.org.

LITHIA YOUTH’S CHARITY HELPS KIDS IN THE U.S., COLUMBIA AND PANAMA

FishHawk resident Katie Jane Brier is proof that you don’t need to be a grown-up to make a diference.

The 10-year-old, along with her father, John Brier, established a multifaceted, char itable organization in 2018, Katie Jane Rocks Inc., that helps children in three countries: the United States, Panama and Columbia.

The family, who has lived in all three countries, witnessed children living in true poverty, which spurred them to create the charity.

“Some kids need help sometimes and I’m glad we can do that with Katie Jane Rocks,” said Katie.

Katie decorates and sells one-of-a-kind resin art pieces, each unique and individually numbered. Pieces range in price from $16.95 to more than $100. One hundred percent of the purchase price (minus sales tax) goes to the charity thanks to her dad’s generous contribution of materials, which can cost be tween $5 and $30 per piece.

With every donation of $50 or more, sup porters will receive a hand-painted Kindness Rock. Many people decide to bring their rock with them and bury it during their travels. There are Kindness Rocks buried throughout the world, from Russia to China and even at the Eifel Tower in Paris.

Last month, Lithia resident Stella Espino sa buried a Kindness Rock in Athens, Greece

By Michelle Caceres

at the Acropolis. Katie said her goal is to have 1,000 rocks buried around the world before she turns 18. If supporters want to bury a rock (no pur chase required), she’d appreciate help reach ing her goal.

So far, her charity has helped fund schol arships for weekly summer camps at the YMCA’s Camp Tra cy in Maine, donated $10,000 so a covered shelter could be built over its archery range, bought laptops and clothing for residents of an orphanage in Columbia and donated thousands of dollars’ worth of food, back packs with school supplies, a refrigerator and tables and chairs to a school in Panama.

“The children used to eat on the floor, and they had no way of keeping their food cold,” said John.

It also hosts the ‘Queen of Diamonds,’ a scholarship program to encourage girls to play sports. To date, the organization has awarded six scholarships in Pensacola and one in Maine.

If that’s not enough to keep a charity busy, it has also published a children’s book in En glish and Spanish, Children of the World, God Loves You! All donations of $200 or more come with an autographed copy of the hard cover book and, of course, a Kindness Rock.

For more information, visit www.katie janerocks.org. To purchase a piece of her art, visit www.kindnessart.org.

FishHawk Turkey Trot runners start their holiday morning in service to others supporting the Seeds of Hope food bank launched 12 years ago.

FishHawk resident Katie Jane Brier has Kindness Rocks buried all over the world. Her charity, Katie Jane Rocks Inc., has donated thousands of dollars to beneft children in three countries.

COUNTY LAUNCHES DUFFELS OF DIGNITY TO HELP AT-RISK YOUTH

Hillsborough Coun

ty Children’s Services launched its Dufels of Dignity program on Octo ber 10. The program will collect donations of new or gently used dufel bags, suitcases and personal care items for children in foster care or who are es caping domestic violence and homelessness.

Hillsborough County Children’s Services as sists many local children who are in traumatic sit uations, facing homelessness or in need of emergency shelter. Often, these children do not have proper luggage to store their be longings and instead use garbage bags to carry their few personal items. Foster care youth in Hillsborough County face similar needs. To help these children and ofer them a bit of courage and dignity, Children’s Ser vices has launched its Dufels of Dignity pro gram and is now accepting donations.

Donations accepted include:

• New or gently used dufel bags (24-28 inches), suitcases (wheelie bags, suitcases with handles) and backpacks are all accept ed.

• Personal care items.

• Toothbrushes and toothpaste.

• Combs and brushes.

• Shampoo and conditioner.

• Deodorant.

All personal care items should be new and in their original packaging.

Dufels of Dignity also has an Amazon Wish List, which is linked at www.hillsbor oughcounty.org/en/residents/social-ser vices/children/dufels-of-dignity. Items or

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dered from the wish list will be mailed directly to the Chil dren’s Services cam pus.

“The idea was to create a program that Hillsborough County Children’s Services would do a year-round collection of new and gently used luggage, dufel bags and personal care items and pro vide them to at-risk youth and children in foster care. These kids have gone through so much, and the trauma they have experienced is severe. It’s important that they get something of their very own and know they are loved. Arriving at a new home with their own dufel bag or suitcase helps provide them with a little sense of dignity during one of the most dif ficult times in their young lives”, said Craig Jewesak, administrative services coordina tor with Hillsborough County Children’s Ser vices. Each bag will have a special label with their name on it as well.

Donations can be dropped of Monday through Friday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m., at Hillsbor ough County Children’s Services Adminis trative Ofce, located at 3191 Clay Mangum Ln. in Tampa. There will be signs directing people to the ‘Dufels of Dignity Drop-of Location.’

Children’s Services has also partnered with local nonprofits Mary & Martha House and The Spring of Tampa Bay, which help women and their children escape domestic violence. For more information, visit www. hcflgov.net/dufelsofdignity.

TOYS FOR TOTS – MAKING CHRISTMAS MAGICAL FOR 18 YEARS

Christmas is a magical holiday for children, but for many families in Hillsborough County, Christmas time can be a fi nancial struggle to put toys under the tree. Thanks to the eforts of Pearson Capital Inc. and Toys for Tots, thou sands of children this year will receive gifts from Santa.

Since 1947, Marine Corps Reserve Units nationwide have encouraged businesses to gather new, unwrapped toys for needy children. Pearson Capital has spearheaded this efort in Southern Hillsborough Coun ty through the Toys for Tots program for 18 years now. Last year, Pearson report ed that two entire truckloads of toys and 75 bicycles were collected, and more than $15,000 dollars was donated — in part due to the generosity of Don Pearson/Pear son Capital, who matched every dollar at 50 percent up to the max of $5,000. Don has generously ofered the same match again this year. Toy collection boxes are now being distributed throughout the area and donations are beginning.

“There are many boxes already out in the community, with more being delivered every day,” said Ann Hathaway of Pearson Capital. “If someone wants to be a Toys for Tots location, you can call 813-645-6392 for a box.” Some of the annual collection lo cations include Rachel’s Family Hair Salon, Harriet’s Florist, Bass Pro Shops, The Wine Society, NV Salon, Oops a Daisy florist, the Firehouse Cultural Center, Boggs Jewelers, The Southshore and South Hillsborough

By Kelly Wise Valdes

chambers of com merce. The commu nities of MiraBay, Southshore Falls, Kings Point, Water set, Rice Creek and Hacienda Heights. New this year are Fuzzy’s Tacos on Big Bend Road, Grease Monkey in Ruskin and Flip Flop Shops in Cypress Village.

“It’s so heart warming to see the outpouring of gener osity of the Southshore Community,” said Hathaway.

This year’s collection event is at a new location, CENTURY 21 Beggins at 6542 N. U.S. Hwy. 41 in Apollo Beach. “They have been huge contributors throughout the years, and this year their location will serve as party central,” said Hathaway. “We’d also like to thank CubeSmart storage in Apollo Beach for their donation of a stor age unit to help us contain the boxes and any overflow until our event.”

On Saturday, December 3 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. at CENTURY 21 Beggins, the Marines will be on hand to accept boxes and toy donations. Santa will make an appearance and there will be Toys for Tots giveaways. There will also be classic cars on display.

Please remember that toys are to be new, unwrapped and in the original packaging. There is often a shortage of toys for chil dren ages 0-2 years old as well as gifts for boys ages 11-14. New bicycles are in high demand each year. Cash donations are also accepted to help fill in the gap to purchase toys that are needed. For more information, call Hathaway at 813-645-6392 or visit https://tampa-fl.toysfortots.org/.

PUBLIC NOTICE

of

County, As your Hillsborough County Tax Collector, it is my goal to deliver first-class service and professionalism as our team serves you, your families, and your businesses.

Innovation, convenience, and accessibility to our services are some of my top priorities. We strive to make it as easy as possible to do business with the Tax Collector’s Ofice while ensuring fiscal accountability. Our team has made great strides in providing many options for you to conduct business with our ofice, including online or by mail.

It is my distinct honor and pleasure to serve as your Hillsborough County Tax Collector. I am dedicated to creating an exceptional customer experience and continually improving to better serve you.

Taxpayers

Hillsborough

The 2022 Hillsborough County tax roll has been delivered to the Tax Collector by the Property Appraiser. Collection of the Ad Valorem Taxes and Non-Ad Valorem Assessments begins on November 1, 2022 STAY

Nancy C. Millan

Photo courtesy of Hillsborough County. Some of the bags and suitcases collected since the launch on October 10.

Pearson Capital is in its 18th year of partnership with Toys for Tots.

For more than 25 years, Music Show case in Brandon has been the premiere location for music, music lessons, in struments, repair and suppiles in our community. Plus, with the onsite Florida Academy of Performing Arts (FAOPA), Music Showcase ofers programs where kids can participate in musical theater, classes, workshops and events.

With FAOPA, experience the jazzy beats of Disney’s The Jungle Book KIDS on Sat urday, November 19 at 10:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. The performance, directed by Rachel Battle, features colorful characters and beloved songs from the movie. Regu lar tickets cost $10 and VIP tickets, which seat attendees in the front two rows, cost $12. Tickets are very limited, so get yours soon.

On Friday, December 2 from 5-10 p.m., kids ages 5-12 can enjoy Parent’s Night Out. The night includes dinner, snacks, games, crafts, the movie Polar Express and Santa’s Workshop, where they’ll be able to make Christmas gifts for friends and families. Registration costs $35 if not currently enrolled in a FAOPA program or $30 if enrolled, and siblings are $15 each. Availability is limited, so register early.

Next, look forward to a free Music Mak ers workshop on Saturday, December 3 from 9:30-11 a.m. There, children ages 4-10 will learn about and get to play sev

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eral musical in struments, as well as create and take home an instrument craft.

And then, from Friday through Sun day, Decem ber 9-11 and 16-18, there will be perfor mances of A Christmas Story: The Musi cal, directed by Heather Ochalek and with performers ranging from 8-year-olds to adults. Based on the beloved Christmas movie, this show will add a new dimension to enjoy for fans of the movie and stand on its own for people who haven’t seen it. Regular tickets cost $15 and VIP tickets cost $20. Showtimes are Fridays at 7:30 p.m. and Saturdays and Sundays at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.

“We have spent over 25 years building relationships with families in this com munity and we are excited for the season with A Christmas Story: The Musical, Po lar Express, Parents’ Night Out and Santa’s Workshop, our annual Christmas recital and Amplify performing in the communi ty. We hope you join us for one of these events,” said Ochalek, executive director of FAOPA.

Music Showcase is located at 402 Oak field Dr. in Brandon. To learn more about its gear, lessons and more, visit www.mu sicshowcaseonline.com or call 813-6855998. For FAOPA, visit https://faopa.org/ or call 813-490-2787.

Taylor Wells

Music Showcase is the go-to for the gift of music, and it’s got plenty of events for this season with the Florida Academy of Performing Arts.

BANK OF AMERICA BROADWAY AT THE STRAZ SEASON

The 2022-23 Bank of America Broadway at the Straz season, sponsored in part by the Tampa Bay Times, is back. Going for ward, the slate includes Tina — The Tina Turner Musical, Chicago, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Ain’t Too Proud and Jagged Little Pill and the Tony® and Gram my Award®-winning best musical Ha destown. The season also features Shear Madness in the intimate Jaeb Theater and special return engagements of Hamilton and Wicked

“Touring Broadway is back in Tampa in a big, big way,” said Straz Center President and CEO Judy Lisi. “We’ve got an astonish ing season planned that includes audience favorites, award winners, R&B, rock ’n’ roll and a couple of shows that were origi nally announced for the 2020-2021 slate and postponed due to the pandemic,” she continued. “This lineup truly is the best of Broadway, and we can’t wait to share it with Tampa Bay area audiences.”

The remaining 2022-23 Broadway sea son features:

Hadestown, November 29-December 4.

Winner of eight 2019 Tony Awards, in cluding Best Musical, and the 2020 Gram my Award for Best Musical Theater Album, this acclaimed new show from celebrated singer-songwriter Anaïs Mitchell and inno vative director Rachel Chavkin (Natasha, Pierre & The Great Comet of 1812) inter twines two mythic tales —that of young dreamers Orpheus and Eurydice, and that of King Hades and his wife, Persephone.

TINA – The Tina Turner Musical, Jan. 31 – Feb. 5, 2023

This new musical reveals a comeback sto ry like no other – of a woman who dared to defy the bounds of racism, sexism and age ism to become the global Queen of Rock ‘n’ Roll. Featuring her much loved songs, TINA

– The Tina Turn er Musical is written by Pu litzer Prize-win ning playwright Katori Hall and directed by the internationally acclaimed Phyl lida Lloyd.

Chicago, Feb. 21 – 26, 2023

After more than 25 years, Chicago is still the one musical with everything that makes Broadway shimmy-shake: a universal tale of fame, for tune and all that jazz, with one showstopping song after another and the most astonish ing dancing you’ve ever seen. Chicago has been honored with six Tony Awards, two Olivier Awards, a Grammy and thousands of standing ovations.

Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, April 11 – 16, 2023

All rise for Academy Award® winner Aaron Sorkin’s adaptation of Harper Lee’s Pulitzer Prize-winning masterwork. The New York Times Critic’s Pick To Kill a Mock ingbird is “the most successful American play in Broadway history.” (60 Minutes).

Emmy Award®-winning actor Richard Thomas will play the role of Atticus Finch in the national tour.

Ain’t Too Proud, May 2 – 7, 2023

Nominated for 12 Tony® Awards and the winner for Best Choreography, Ain’t

Too Proud: The Life and Times of The Temptations is the elec trifying new smash-hit Broadway musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordi nary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame.

Jagged Little Pill, May 16 – 21, 2023

Joy, love, heartache, strength, wisdom, catharsis, LIFE — ev erything we’ve been waiting to see in a Broadway show — is here in the exhilarat ing, fearless new musical based on Alanis Morissette’s world-changing music. Direct ed by Tony Award winner Diane Paulus (Waitress, Pippin, upcoming 1776) with a Tony-winning book by Diablo Cody (Juno) and Grammy-winning score, this electrify ing production about a perfectly imperfect American family “vaults the audience to its collective feet.” (The Guardian).

The season also features:

Shear Madness, Feb. 15 – April 8, 2023

This unique comedy whodunit takes place today in the Shear Madness hairstyling sa lon and is chock-full of up-to-the-minute spontaneous humor. During the course of

the action, a murder is committed, and the audience gets to spot the clues, question the suspects and solve the funniest mys tery in the annals of crime. The outcome is never the same, which is why many au dience members return again and again to the scene of the mayhem.

In addition to the eight-show Broadway series, the Straz will present two special return engagements:

Hamilton, Dec. 28, 2022 – Jan. 22, 2023

Featuring a score that blends hip-hop, jazz, R&B and Broadway, Hamilton has tak en the story of American founding father Alexander Hamilton and created a revo lutionary moment in theatre — a musical that has had a profound impact on culture, politics and education. With the book, mu sic and lyrics by Lin-Manuel Miranda; di rection by Thomas Kail; choreography by Andy Blankenbuehler; and musical supervi sion and orchestrations by Alex Lacamoire, Hamilton is based on Ron Chernow’s ac claimed biography. It has won Tony, Gram my and Olivier Awards, the Pulitzer Prize for Drama and an unprecedented special citation from the Kennedy Center Honors.

Wicked, March 8 – 26, 2023

Wicked, the Broadway sensation, looks at what happened in the Land of Oz, but from a diferent angle. From the first elec trifying note to the final breathtaking mo ment, Wicked — the untold true story of the Witches of Oz — transfixes audiences with its wildly inventive story that USA Today cheers is “a complete triumph! An original musical that will make you laugh, cry and think.”

For more information about the Broad way season, individual shows, other Straz Center events and productions or to be come a season ticket holder, visit www. strazcenter.org.

Te 2022-2023 Bank of America Broadway at the Straz season features Hadestown, Tina — Te Tina Turner Musical, Chicago, Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird, Ain’t Too Proud and Jagged Little Pill, as well as Shear Madness.

LIFELONG FRIENDS START WHO’S YOUR DUMPSTER TO SERVE COMMUNITY

Childhood friends Christo pher LeBlanc and Chuck Harman started Who’s Your Dumpster Inc. in March af ter LeBlanc saw a need for their cleanup service in the community.

LeBlanc, who works in the home building and contracting industry, knew the communi ty needed help disposing of the debris and junk that contractors can leave behind when working on the house. With that realization, LeBlanc came up with the idea for Who’s Your Dumpster.

“We provide a casual dumpster delivery service that allows our clients to clean out their unwanted junk on their time,” explained Harman.

Who’s Your Dumpster ofers a three-day rental starting at $285 plus tax, with every additional day (up to a maximum of five days) costing $15 extra. The pricing includes tipping and dumping, along with zero hidden costs for dumpster renters. In addition to the daily rental, Who’s Your Dumpster recently added a pickup and delivery option for landscaping items, such as rocks and mulch, for $150.

“Our dumpsters are already on wheels, which allows for easy, clean, nonmarking and ease of use for our clients’ usage,” said Har

By Lily Belcher

man.

One of the unique characteris tics of Who’s Your Dumpster is the flexibility of its ser vice, which is per fect for residential and commercial cleanups. With the variable rental op tions, homeowners can utilize LeBlanc and Harman’s ser vice for household projects and yard work. Construction workers, roofers, builders and con tractors can also use their dumpster service for com mercial cleanups.

Since its incep tion in March, the greatest challenge facing Who’s Your Dumpster has been the rising cost of tipping fees at the county dump and the competition in the market. Still, Who’s Your Dumpster serves roughly 30 customers and hopes to expand its customer base to include more commercial workers.

LeBlanc and Harman met when they were both in fourth grade at Nativity Catholic School in Brandon. Harman said the most rewarding part of Who’s Your Dumpster has been working with a lifelong friend.

For more information, please visit Who’s Your Dumpster on Facebook. You may con tact the residential and commercial dump ster rental service at 813-771-0123 or email Chuck Harman at chuckh@shiptbl.com.

Christopher LeBlanc and Chuck Harman started Who’s Your Dumpster. It ofers fexible rental option for commercial and residential customers with debris and junk cleanup.

THE WAY 2 DANCE AND CELEBRATIONS VENUE OFFER THE COMMUNITY MANY WAYS TO HAVE FUN

Tatyana Frost runs two local businesses to enhance the lives of so many people in the area. The Way 2 Dance teaches salsa, ballroom and other types of dancing, and Celebrations Venue provides an alternate home for many people to cel ebrate their special day with their friends and family. “I love be ing a part of our com munity and ofering so many dance pro grams at The Way 2 Dance, and I like that people from our community have a place to host their events and family gatherings at Celebrations Venue,” Frost said. “Both of my business make lasting memories for our guests and this makes me very happy and proud.”

The Way 2 Dance is ofering holiday gift certificates for a great price to add a gift un der the Christmas tree for your loved ones. “‘Don’t think or talk about it anymore, just do it, just dance’ is something I always say,” Frost said. “Dancing is a great way to relieve stress, great exercise and not to mention fun. I’m not saying I’m Dr. Frost, but many of our clients have said they feel better both mentally and physically after taking classes.”

One of the latest programs that The Way 2 Dance ofers is its three-hour workshops of salsa, bachata, swing and other dances that are a great way to learn or improve a dance in one day. “It really helps a lot of peo ple that can’t come during the week but are

By Libby Hopkins

available for a crash course on week ends,” Frost said.

“Many students have started to work on their choreographed dance routines for a Valentine’s Day showcase that will take place on Sun day, February 5 at 3 p.m. at our studio.

Nothing is better than to learn how to lift your partner, dip and do lots of fancy moves just for fun. Tickets for spectators are only $18 per person. Start dancing today, meet new dance friends and add dancing to your exer cise routine, all while having fun.”

Celebrations Venue is a very afordable event space and is available for rent for many special occasions. “It comes with ta bles and chairs designed and setup for your event, a variety of lights, Bluetooth speakers built into the ceiling, kitchenette with a mi crowave, refrigerator and a sink,” Frost said.

“The venue is flexible. You just need to bring your decorations, food and have an amazing time with your loved ones. We encourage future renters to contact ASAP if they are looking for a rental venue because our calen dar is already getting full for 2023.”

If you would like to learn more about ei ther one of Frost’s businesses, you can visit their websites at www.theway2dance.com or www.celebrationsvenue.com. The Way 2 Dance is located at 6520 U.S. Hwy. 301, #102 in Riverview and Celebrations Venue is located at 610 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon.

METROPOLITAN MINISTRIES NEEDS COMMUNITY SUPPORT FOR ITS LARGEST MOBILIZATIONS EVER

The holidays are a time for celebra tion — unless you don’t have enough to eat. This holiday sea son, at-risk, hungry and hurting families all over Tampa Bay will need you, your prayers and your gen erosity.

The need continues to be great this year with the rising costs of rent, utilities, gas and food. For families who struggle to make ends meet on a day-today basis, the thought of not being able to enjoy a holiday meal can be painful.

Metropolitan Ministries has budgeted to serve 32,000 families for Thanksgiving and Christmas, but it knows it will serve more — projections currently stand at over 37,000 families.

In addition to its main holiday distri bution tent in Tampa, Metropolitan Min istries is setting up pop-up tents in “the highest areas of need” in Hillsborough, Pasco and Pinellas counties. Currently, 12 pop-up sites are planned, but the total could go as high as 17, which will include two in Lee County, in areas that families are struggling from the devastation by Hurricane Ian.

“It’s the largest mobilization that Met ropolitan Ministries has ever done in our 50-year history,” spokesperson Justine Burke said. “With the help of the commu

nity, we are able to do it. The only reason we are able to mobilize is because of all the collaboration. That’s what makes it so awe some. Everybody from all walks of life coming together to help some one that they don’t even know. It’s very unifying in the times we are in right now.”

To serve the thou sands of families who will reach out to Metropol itan Ministries for help this holiday season, the organi zation needs turkeys, canned vegetables and potatoes. Be sides the traditional fixings, the organization also likes to include a treat, like a healthy cereal, peanut but ter, bread and even dessert, in the holiday boxes given to families.

Those in need of help can register on line (www.metromin.org/holiday-central/ need-help/) or in person. To mitigate ad ditional travel, Metropolitan Ministries has partnered with strategic, like-minded organizations to ofer more sites across Tampa Bay.

The community can also help inspire hope this holiday season by either vol unteering at the tent, hosting a donation drive, donating food or toys or donating at www.metromin.org.

For more information on Metropoli tan Ministries’ holiday initiative, visit the Holiday Central section of its website at www.metromin.org/holiday-central/.

Tatyana Frost runs two local businesses to en hance the lives of so many people in the area. Te Way 2 Dance teaches salsa, ballroom and other types of dancing, and Celebrations Venue provides an alternate home for many people to celebrate their special day with their friends and family.

S A L S A B A L L R O O M S W I N G

A Metropolitan Ministries volunteer sorting food donations.

Happy Holidays From The Tony Baroni Team

“Kate always got back to me quickly and was able to answer my questions or concerns which were important in making my decision to purchase a property. She is more than a 5 star Agent !”

- Jerry S -

“Chris Jossi made our frst home buying experience unforgettably easy! We made a decision to move to Florida from the Midwest buying a house sight unseen only because Chris provided the quality of service and dedication to us to ensure we could make the right decision. So grateful to have worked with the Tony Baroni team and even more grateful to have a great friend in Chris!”

- Tyler Jensvold -

“Te team were of great help to me in selling and f nding my new home. I’m glad I chose to work with them.”

- Steven Monica -

“Te team is awesome. Tey advise you based on your needs and what the market is like, not on how much commission they are going to make out of you.”

- John Basilyous -

“Chris J. was a pleasure to work with. His knowledge and friendly professionalism eased the stressed of my home buying journey!”

- Rose Cortes -

“I recommend Tony Baroni team wholeheartedly. From start to f nish, communication was excellent, and expectations were clearly explained. No surprises except for the good kind!

I felt that Craig Keller, with the help of Louis and Chelsea, truly advocated on my behalf. Te process was smooth, and the transaction was completed in a quick and painless way.”

- Elaine Waite -

ECHO OF BRANDON SEES INCREASE IN NEED FOR SERVICES DUE TO ECONOMY AND HURRICANE IAN

The Emergency Care Help Organi zation (ECHO) in Brandon has estab lished a reputation over its 35-year history as a place where people who find themselves in a life-altering finan cial crisis can turn to for resources to regain solid footing on their life’s jour ney.

The nonprofit operates a food bank and makes cloth ing available for those lacking the basics of daily living. ECHO also provides help with job searches and accessing appropriate govern ment programs, as well as connecting with specialized services ofered by other orga nizations that could benefit an individual or family trying to navigate out of a difcult financial situation.

“At ECHO, we create opportunities and advocate for our neighbors to provide for themselves,” said Eleanor Saunders, ECHO’s executive director.

Recently, the ability of ECHO to fulfill its commitment to the people who turn to it is being challenged by an increased demand for services.

According to Saunders, the rise in re quests for assistance has been significant, with a 72 percent increase from 3,746 during the three-month total of July through September 2021 to the same time frame of this year, with 6,443 individuals served.

Saunders added that many of those re

By Brad Stager

quests for help come from people who are without shelter, citing a more than four fold increase in the past year for those cases, from 60 in the nonprofit’s first quarter last year to 250 for the same period in 2022, a 316 per cent increase.

As if the climbing num ber of people in financial distress wasn’t enough, Hurricane Ian has made the problem worse, according to Saunders, with its impact on people who were on the edge of stability before the storm. Many of them lost hour ly wages from business closings while Ian tracked through the state or had food spoil age from a lack of electricity to power their refrigerator.

“This is proving to be another setback,” she said in a video available on the ECHO of Brandon YouTube channel and Facebook page. Saunders added that ECHO and the neighbors it helps are counting on commu nity support to get through the current in crease in demand for services.

“When supporting an organization that stands in the gap for the struggling, my hope is that local residents would allocate their philanthropic giving to the Small but Mighty nonprofit community right here in the Greater Brandon community.”

To learn more about ECHO or to make a donation, visit https://echofl.org/.

A group of neighbors in need of assistance wait for their turn to meet with ECHO volunteers Connie Talley, in the black shirt, and Mary Montufar, in the blue shirt, at the nonproft’s welcome center.

Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay today an nounced Serengeti Flyer as the park’s allnew 2023 attraction.

Serengeti Flyer will be the world’s tallest and fastest ride of its kind, a screamin’ swing, upon opening in spring 2023.

With each swing, riders will soar high er and higher above Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s expansive 65acre Serengeti Plain while experiencing multiple negative-G moments before plung ing back toward the Earth. Serengeti Flyer will feature twin dueling arms that soar progressively higher, reaching speeds of 68 mph and a maximum height of 135 feet at the ride’s peak. Guests will be seated backto-back in rows of 10 across two gondolas, allowing for 40 guests to experience the ride at once.

“Serengeti Flyer’s thrilling ride expe rience is bound to provide riders with a pulse-pounding encounter that can only be found at Busch Gardens Tampa Bay,” said Neal Thurman, park president of Busch Gar dens Tampa Bay. “We believe that Serengeti Flyer will be the perfect high-thrill addition to our world-class portfolio of attractions, including Iron Gwazi, the Golden Tick et Award winner for the Best New Roller Coaster in 2022.”

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay annual pass members will be among the first to expe rience the new attraction upon opening in spring 2023.

Enjoy the breathtaking thrill of Serengeti Flyer all year long with a Busch Gardens Tampa Bay annu al pass or 2023 fun card. Starting as low as $14 per month with exclu sive pass member benefits valued at over $400, a Bus ch Gardens Tampa Bay annual pass is the best way to experi ence this all-new attraction.

Guests looking for incredible savings can pay for a day and get the rest of 2022 and 2023 free with Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s limited time fun card ofer, which provides unlimited access to the park’s world-class attractions, award-winning entertainment, up-close animal encounters and vibrant sea sonal events.

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay is the ulti mate family adventure, ofering 300 acres of fascinating attractions based on exotic explorations around the world. Busch Gar dens is a unique blend of thrilling rides, an AZA-accredited zoo with thousands of an imals representing more than 200 species and exciting seasonal events all year pro viding unrivaled experiences for guests of every age. For more information, visit www. buschgardenstampa.com. Busch Gardens is owned by SeaWorld Entertainment Inc. (NYSE: SEAS), a leading theme park and en tertainment company providing experiences that matter and inspiring guests to protect animals and the wild wonders of our world.

Photo courtesy of Busch Gardens. Te Serengeti Flyer, Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s all-new attraction, opens in spring 2023.

At Eggs Up Grill in Riverview, the smells of fresh ly brewed cofee, crispy bacon and sweetness hit the senses immedi ately upon enter ing. In addition to a massive menu featuring break fast and brunch classics, salads and lunch hot of the grill, guests can expect to experience genuine hospitality from people who live in the community.

“We are all about neighbors serving neighbors,” said franchise owners Priscilla and John Conyers.

The couple will celebrate the restau rant’s two-year anniversary during the entire week of Wednesday, November 16. “The community has been so good to us, and we want to pay homage for helping us crack so many eggs,” said Priscilla.

“We have an egg counter, and we lit erally track how many eggs we’ve handcracked since day one, so it will be a super fun celebration,” she added.

Stop by for breakfast, lunch or brunch; there surely is something for everyone. Priscilla pointed out that the shrimp-andgrits bowl, coastal crab cake benedict and Cali mac and cheese bowl are guest favor ites.

Along with its two-year anniversary, Eggs Up Grill is rolling out a new, expanded menu and premiering refreshing signature drinks including The Harvest Peach and

By Sharon Still

Sweet Cream.

“Tampa Bay loves a good meal that is fresh and locally sourced, and that’s what we are bringing to our guests,” stated Priscilla.

Reflective of the demands of the lo cal foodie commu nity, the new menu will also feature more heart-healthy and gluten-free items, plus an added kids’ menu.

Eggs Up Grill also ofers catering for any size meeting or corporate event. A huge variety of catering options are available for breakfast, brunch and lunch, from bufet-style to individual boxed meals. Additionally, a private dining suite on-premises dubbed the ‘Community Coop’ is available for groups of up to 15 guests.

“Let Me Make You Smile”, the company’s mantra, starts with warm welcomes by friendly team members and continues with genuine hospitality throughout the dining experience.

“Service is our passion. We provide real service for real people and making them smile is job number one,” said John.

Eggs Up Grill is located at 3920 U.S. Hwy. 301. Its hours are 6 a.m.-2:30 p.m., seven days a week. Stay up to date on spe cial promotions and details on Instagram and Facebook @eugriverview and check out the full menu online at www.eggsup grill.com.

The Cross-Bay Ferry has begun its sixth sea son of operations across Tampa Bay. The service, which provides a scenic and congestion-free trans portation option between downtown Tampa and downtown St. Petersburg, returns following its most successful season since the service began with a record-breaking 62,130 riders from October 2021 to May 2023, 10,000 more people than its previous re cord.

The Cross-Bay Ferry is an innovative col laboration between Hillsborough County, the City of Tampa, the City of St. Petersburg and the Florida Department of Transporta tion that is working to build the ferry into a long-term local transportation resource that will significantly relieve roadway con gestion, boost commerce to local businesses and provide a fast, fun and afordable way to travel. Hillsborough County is currently the lead governmental sponsor.

“Thanks to a productive partnership between the local governments and the Florida Department of Transportation, the Cross-Bay Ferry is returning this month and is well-positioned for another successful season as we continue to build upon the sys tem’s early success,” said Matt Miller, pres ident of HMS Ferries. “The Cross-Bay Ferry ofers a uniquely accessible and afordable transportation option between downtown Tampa and downtown St. Pete, providing lo cal residents and visitors with a commuting option that includes incredible views of the bay and surrounding skylines.”

This year, the ferry will again ofer an

extended season with an additional month of service and an expanded daily schedule that includes later eve ning runs. Service lasts until May 2023. Later-eve ning departures will also be avail able. The Cross-Bay Ferry will operate

from the same terminal locations as in pre vious seasons. In Tampa, the ferry will de part from the dock at the Tampa Convention Center, and in St. Petersburg, from the dock at North Straub Park, near Vinoy Marina.

The ferry vessel, named Provincetown III, is a twin-hull aluminum catamaran that can carry a maximum of 149 guests at an average speed of 30 mph. The vessel has a full-service bar with basic food service. Pas sengers may bring up to two pieces of lug gage and one small personal item at no ex tra charge, and they may also bring bikes on board. Customer surveys will also be taken regularly to improve service and gain better insight into how future permanent service can be structured.

In February, the Federal Transit Adminis tration awarded Hillsborough Area Region al Transit Authority (HART) a $4.9 million grant to buy a new 350-passenger vessel that HART requested last October. This will further establish the Cross-Bay Ferry as a mainstay transit option to reduce conges tion, create local jobs, and increase connec tivity across the Tampa Bay area.

Visit www.thecrossbayferry.com. Tickets can also be purchased at dockside ticket booths in Tampa and St. Petersburg.

The 2022-23 Hill sborough County Hiking Spree is here. The Hiking Spree be gins on Tuesday, No vember 1 and runs through March 31, 2023.

The annual Hiking Spree began in 2016 as a way to encour age people to exer cise, explore the out doors and experience nature by visiting the many beautiful parks and preserves located in Hillsborough Coun ty. The Hiking Spree has grown in popular ity each year and now draws thousands of participants.

This year’s Hiking Spree trail list fea tures 26 trails. If you hike at least eight of the 26 trails between now and the end of March 2023, you can earn a patch, a medallion for a walking stick or a pet bandana. One of the hikes can be at a lo cation of your choice that is not on the list.

Residents are encouraged to bring their leashed dogs on the hikes.

The trails are designed to ofer some thing for everyone, from hiking rookies to seasoned outdoor enthusiasts, with hikes rated easy, moderate or strenuous. Hikes range in length from 5 miles to less than a mile. The environmentally diverse sites are spread throughout the county and range from neighborhood parks like Do ver District Neighborhood Park to large preserves with multiple habitats like Ed

By Kathy L. Collins

ward Medard Conser vation Park. This year’s list has three state parks, including for the first time Egmont Key State Park, which is only accessible by boat.

According to Brad Lympany, recreation program supervisor with Hillsborough County Parks & Rec reation, “The Hiking Spree is timed to take advantage of the cool er, drier weather and to coincide with prime bird-watching season. Participants are en couraged to post pho tos from their hikes using the hashtag #TakeAHikeHC.”

There are 24 parks on this year’s list. The list includes several local destina tions, such as Edward Medard Conser vation Park, Veterans Memorial Park and Museum, Balm Boyette Nature Preserve, FishHawk Creek Nature Preserve, Do ver District Neighborhood Park, Ruskin Park & Recreation Center and Stephen J. Wortham Park.

The list of trails is higher because two of the parks each have two eligible trails.

Having completed the Hiking Spree for the last few years, I can tell you that is a delightful way to see and experience all the beautiful nature that Hillsborough County has to ofer.

You can find information on the Hiking Spree and register to participate by visit ing www.hcflgov.net/hikingspree.

It all began with a book about a girl who ran a lemonade stand for pediatric cancer patients, a commercial on animal cruelty and a dream. On October 12, Delanie Dennis, the 10-year-old owner of Delanie’s Lemon ade Stand, was recognized as the ‘Kid of the Year’ by the American Society for the Pre vention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA) at the Humane Awards Luncheon in New York City. At 12 Noon, she gave a speech discuss ing her continued involvement in supporting rescues in her community through her busi ness and special events.

“We had no idea — it was a complete surprise. We received a phone call from the ASPCA saying they’d been following Delanie for a long time, and that it was amazing to see what she’s accomplished,” said Delanie’s mother, Julie Dennis.

Running her business from her parents’ restaurant, Cafe Delanie, Delanie has raised over $50,000 since she first opened her lemonade stand in April 2019. Every month since, Delanie sits down with her mother and researches a handful of local rescues that are nonprofit organizations and choos es which she would like to donate 100 per cent of her proceeds to for that month.

Delanie and her family also assisted with the third annual RVR Horse Rescue ‘Barn-

By Madeline Gardner

o-Ween’ event on Oc tober 30. Located at 1710 W. SR 60 in Plant City, RVR Horse Rescue is a nonprofit geared towards rehabilitating severe cases and help ing rescue horses find a loving home after they’ve recovered. Dela nie planned to increase support for this non profit by setting up her lemonade stand as visi tors were encouraged to trick-or-treat and visit the rescues.

Additionally, her second annual ‘Squeeze the Day’ Lemonade Stand Adoption Fair was held on Sunday, November 13 at Dal las Bull, located at 3322 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Tampa. This event showcased local rescue groups and shelters that are free to the public and featured food trucks as well as an appearance by the Hillsborough County Police Department alongside their K9 units for demonstrations. For more information about Delanie’s Lemonade Stand Adoption Fair, please call 813-957-8301 or email del anieslemonadestand@aol.com. Working to increase the number of animals adopted this year, Delanie hopes to spread the mes sage that anyone can make a diference and achieve any goal.

“My two goals are to hopefully get some people to follow in my footsteps and start their own lemonade stand, and to get $100,000 donated to animals. Any kid at any age can change the world,” said Delanie.

To learn more about Delanie’s Lemonade Stand, visit the Cafe Delanie Facebook page or call 813-740-2233. Cafe Delanie and Del anie’s Lemonade Stand are located at 3016 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Tampa.

peter.blake@edwardjones.com www.edwardjones.com/us-en/fnancial-advisor/peter-blake

Delanie Dennis was surprised and excited to be recognized at the na tional level for her work in the local community.

Hillsborough County recent ly celebrated a major milestone: the 100,000th pet saved at the Michael S. Mer rill Pet Resource Center since Hill sborough County committed to improving the live-release rate at the shelter a decade ago.

In 2012, the euthanasia rate at the shel ter, like at most public shelters throughout the country at that time, was painfully high. About 12,000 dogs and cats were eutha nized that year, nearly two-thirds of the pets brought to the shelter.

Today, the Pet Resource Center’s live-re lease rate is above 90 percent, among the highest in the nation. Those figures are even more remarkable because the Pet Resource Center is the only open-admission shelter in Hillsborough County, meaning it accepts all dogs and cats regardless of age, medical condition or breed.

On October 21, county and shelter of cials celebrated that accomplishment and recognized the local resident who adopted the 100,000th pet saved at the shelter since 2012.

Ray Villegas is the proud adoptive parent to Milo the dog, the 100,000th pet saved at the Pet Resource Center. “If you have the op portunity to love an animal and you have the capability, then please do because it saves a life and they add to your life,” said Villegas. The policy changes began with a commit ment to trust and rely upon people in the community — pet owners, veterinarians, rescue groups and many others — to band

together to build a lifesaving communi ty for pets. Among the policy and practical changes responsible for the dramatic improve ment in live-release rates and accompa nying drop in eutha nasia are:

• The creation of a pet support team that works to help residents keep their pets rather than turning them over to the shelter. Team members can help resolve issues with pet behavior, provide food and other supplies and even help arrange med ical care.

• Actively working with more than 300 pet rescue groups.

• Establishment of a foster program that allows residents to take pets home for as lit tle as a week. The program helps clear shel ter space and provides valuable information about the pets’ behaviors and personalities.

• Establishing pet-enrichment programs, such as dog play groups.

• Quickly spaying/neutering and evaluat ing pets.

• Allowing residents to view virtually all available dogs and cats at the shelter through an online kennel that includes pho tos, medical information and behavioral notes.

• A commitment to matching people with the right pet, which increases owner satis faction and reduces return rates.

• Increasing the number and variety of medical issues that can be treated at the shelter.

For more information or to adopt a furry friend, please visit hcflgov.net/adopt.

Left

right

Pet Resource Center director Scott Tre batoski, Ray Villegas, Hillsborough County Assistant Administrator Dexter Barge, Hillsborough County Administrator Bonnie Wise and Hillsborough County Commissioner Ken Hagan.

Used Book Sale At Blooming dale Regional Library

The Friends of the Bloomingdale Re gional Library will have a special book sale on Saturday, November 19 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. All bookstore materials will be specially priced and available in the Friends bookstore and the library re freshment area, located just inside the main entrance to the library. The book store sells used books, audio and video materials donated by the community. Money raised by the bookstore helps fund programs and special events for

the benefit of the Blooming dale community and the pro motion of reading and literacy. Join in on November 19; the se lection is great, and you can’t beat the prices.

The Spirit Of Christmas With The Ditchfields Concert Comes To Sun City Center

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center (SCCUMC) welcomes The Ditchfield Family Singers to its campus for a concert on Friday, December 2 at 7 p.m. titled ‘The Spirit of Christmas with the Ditch fields.’ The Ditchfield Family Singers are one of America’s most versatile vocal ensem bles and one of Florida’s fa vorite family musical groups. They will be performing carols and holiday favorites to capture the spirit and joy of Christmas. For addition al information and how to purchase tickets, visit its website at www.sccumc. com. The SCCUMC is located at 1971 Haverford Ave. in Sun City Center.

‘Time For Change’ Opens At Tampa Muse um Of Art

Time for Change: Art and Social Unrest in the Jorge M. Pérez Collection, is on view in the Tampa Museum of Art now through March 12, 2023. This exhibit looks at

how artists ex plore conflicts and contradic tions of contem porary society as well as an alyzes histori cal events and reframes them within the present. This exhibit opens the first of several new exhibition galleries which were

during the Tampa Museum of Art’s renovation. The Tampa Museum of Art is

located at 120 W. Gasparilla Plz. in Tampa. Additional in formation about the museum can be found on its website at https://tampamuseum.org/.

American Pickers Is Looking To Film In Flor ida

American Pickers is a docu mentary series that explores the fascinating world of an tique ‘picking.’ The hit show

follows skilled pickers in the business as they hunt for valuable antiques, and it’s looking for locations in Florida. As they hit the back roads, the pickers are on a mission to recycle and rescue forgotten relics. Along the way, they want to meet characters with remarkable and excep tional items.

If you or someone you know has a large private collection or accumulation of antiques that the pickers can spend the better part of a day looking through, American Pickers would love to hear from you.

If you are interested, contact Amer ican Pickers at americanpickers@cine flix.com or call 646-493-2184.

completed

Jingle Bell Bazaar In Ybor City

Come and enjoy a free, fun, festive holiday event in Tampa’s historic Ybor City at the annual Jingle Bell Bazaar. The Jingle Bell Bazaar is Ybor City’s larg est family holiday festival with live music bands, en tertainment performances, food trucks, face painting, balloon artists as well as holiday-themed shopping. Santa arrives at 1 p.m. and children get free photographs with him. The event takes place on Sunday, December 11 from 12-6 p.m. at Centennial Park, located at 1800 E. 8th Ave. in Tampa. Additional information can be found at its website, www.jinglebellbazaar. com.

S’mores & Stores Event In River crest Community

Rivercrest Community in Riverview is hosting its annual S’mores & Stores event on Sunday, December 11 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Come and shop from a wide variety of local vendors, enjoy fresh food from food trucks and enjoy your free s’more. A special surprise guest will also be making an appearance; can you guess who? The event is being held at 11560 Ramble Creek Dr. in Riverview. Pro ceeds from the event go to West Florida Fos ter Care Services.

FishHawk Ranch Holiday Shopping Bazaar

With over 40 vendors with an array of wonderful and unique products you are sure to find something for everyone at the FishHawk Ranch Holiday Shopping Bazaar. Food trucks will also be outside in the parking lot so come hungry. This fun shopping experience is being held in the Palmetto Club Grand Ballroom, located at 17004 Dorman Rd. in Lithia, on Saturday, December 10 from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. The OneBlood Big Red Bus will be accepting donations, so please consider donating blood to those in need.

Tampa’s Holiday Market

Includes Free Child Care Shop with local small busi nesses, artisans and crafters at the Tampa Holiday Market on Sunday, December 4 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. The event is being held at Water Works Park, lo cated at 1701 N Highland Ave. in Tampa. Par ents can shop without worry of their children seeing the gifts by using the complimentary child-care tent. There will also be food trucks and holiday entertainment while you shop,

children can visit Santa and they can have cookies and milk with Mrs. Claus.

German-style Christmas At Old Castle Restaurant

Sun City Center’s popu lar German restaurant, Old Castle, is holding a Christ mas market in the Home Depot/Lowes parking lot outside the restaurant, located at 3830 Sun City Center Blvd. in Ruskin. Along with numerous vendors of a wide variety of Christmas items and gifts for all, there will also be awesome German food, wine, beer and music. The fun starts at 12 Noon on Sunday, December 4 and will run until 8 p.m.

C.A.R.E. Gift And Wine Fair

The Critter Adoption and Rescue Efort (C.A.R.E.) Gift and Wine Fair is back again this year on Saturday, December 3 from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. at Southshore Falls, located at 5831 Cascade Falls Ln. in Apollo Beach. Along with a wide selection of vendors that will help you to meet your holiday shopping needs, there will also be fabulous items avail able in the silent auctions and rafe baskets. Plus, there will be free wine tasting. Tickets are $10, with proceeds going to C.A.R.E., which includes a free rafe ticket. For more information, visit its website at www.careshelter.org.

Summerfeld Community Center Holiday Market

The Summerfield community will be hosting a holiday market on Saturday, December 3 at its community center, located at 13011 Summerfield Blvd. in Riverview. The market will have a wide range of items, including, jewelry, candles, soaps, signs, wreaths, decorated tumblers, embroi dered items and more.

Timely Treasures Arts & Crafts Fair

inside and outside with one-of-a-kind, handcrafted trea sures, including jew elry, stained glass, holiday themed, artworks, doll cloth ing, cards, wood crafts, towels, ceramics and much more. The Ladies Friendship Circle will also be selling its amazing baked goods.

Tampa Bay Festival Of Lights

The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds is presenting its upgraded holiday light spec tacular at Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Village, opening on Thanksgiving Day on Thursday, November 24 and running through January 1, 2023. This year’s event features a nearly 2-mile drive-through of contin uous light features, fol lowed by a festive walk ing visit to Santa’s Village. Enjoy a visit with Santa’s favorite animals, camel rides, face painting, hol iday movies and holiday treats. The Hillsborough County Fairgrounds is located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover.

Christmas In Te Park Light Show

The Christmas in the Park drive-through light show and outdoor market will take place from Friday, December 9 through Saturday, December 31, 5-9 p.m. The fun for all the family event is located at Masonic RV Park & Youth Camp, located at 18050 U.S. Hwy. 301 in Wimauma. Hot choc olate and other festive food and drinks will be available.

Christmas Lane Returns To Plant City

Christmas Lane is returning to Plant City. Over 2,000 volunteer hours have prepared this winter wonderland full of the magic of Christmas at every turn. With more than 1.5 million lights adorn ing over 200 Christmas trees ranging from 4-40 feet tall, the displays are sure to delight. Make sure that you visit and write your let ters to Santa, as well as decorate ornaments and have your face painted. There is also live entertainment on select nights. Christmas Lane is open Thursday through Sunday, 6-10 p.m. from November 25 through December 24 at the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds in Plant City. Additional information can be

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

found on its website at https:// christmaslane.com/.

Barrington Oaks Lights Display

Each year, Barrington Oaks opens up in the spirit of the holiday to share its light display. The gates will be open from Sunday, December 11 through Monday, December 26, 6-11 p.m. As during this time Barrington Oaks will have many guests in the neighborhood enjoying the season, it asks that you make a right-hand turn as you enter the neighborhood.

‘Enchant’ At Tropicana Field

Let Enchant light up your holiday season. Bring your friends and family for a magical evening with over 4 million sparkling lights, its sto ry-themed walk-through light maze, ice skating and so much more. General admission includes access to the complete event, in cluding the maze, Santa, Village shops and games. Ice skating though is an additional price. ‘Enchant’ will be at Tropicana Field in St. Petersburg and runs from Friday, November 25 through January 1, 2023. For additional information and to purchase tickets, vis it its website at www.enchantchristmas.com.

Paloma Glade Christmas Lights And Music Show

This year, the Paloma Glade neighbor hood has almost 50 homes joining in with its Christmas light and music show. The thing that really makes Paloma Glade’s display spe cial is how you can tune in with your car ra dio and have the display synchronized to the music. Teenagers in the neighborhood are also collecting nonperishable food items for local char ity Seeds of Hope, such as boxed po tatoes, canned veg gies, desserts, bread mixes, pasta, mac ’n cheese and soups, so please bring an item to add to the collection for the event’s ham giveaway. Cash donations will also be accepted.

The display starts on Thanksgiving, Thurs day, November 24 and runs from 7-10 p.m., and then the regular times are Sunday through Thursday, 6-10 p.m., as well as Fri day and Saturday, 6-11 p.m. The last day of the light show is Saturday, December 31.

The United Methodist Church of Sun City Center will be hosting its Timely Treasures Arts & Crafts Fair on Saturday, November 26 from 9 a.m.-2 p.m. in the church’s Life Enrich ment Center. There will be over 70 vendors

EXPERIENCE FESTIVE HOLIDAY ACTIVITIES AND EVENTS THIS SEASON

Busch Gardens Christmas Town

The holidays come to life at Busch Gardens Christmas Town, the park’s award-winning holiday event. Celebrate the year with holiday cheer and create merry memories for the whole family during this seasonal event which is in cluded with park admission. Guests can enjoy holiday traditions with a twist, from millions of sparkling lights throughout the park to holiday shows and visits with Santa and Rudolph the Red-nosed Reindeer. Bus ch Gardens Christmas Town runs daily now through January 2, 2023. Visit its website, www.buschgardens.com, for more informa tion.

Church Street Christmas

Come cele brate the spirit of Christmas and enjoy the sights and sounds of this magical season. All are in vited to experience this free annual holiday event along Dade City’s historic Church Ave nue, where carolers, choirs, dancers and mu sicians perform along luminary lit sidewalks and brilliantly decorated homes. The street closes to vehicular trafc from Wednesday through Friday, December 21-23, 7-9 p.m. For more information, visit its website at www.churchstreetchristmas.org.

Te Ultimate Gift Presented By Love First Christian Center

What do snowstorms, time travel and a stubborn donkey have in common? They are all needed in telling the real meaning of Christmas. The Ultimate Gift is a fantas tic journey to find out the real meaning of Christmas. It will bring the family together

as it speaks to all ages from young to old. Bring your friends and family to see The Ul timate Gift on Saturday, December 17 at 7 p.m. at Love First Christian Center, located at 12847 Balm Riverview Rd. in Riverview. Tickets are available from www.ultimate giftmovie.com.

Christmas In Te Wild At ZooTam pa

It’s the most won derful time of the year at ZooTampa with the return of Christmas in the Wild, featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, delec table holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is bigger, better and brighter than ever with enter tainment that the whole family can enjoy, in cluding festive realms, holiday shows and a visit with Santa. Christmas in the Wild runs on selective nights November through De cember. Visit www.zootampa.org for more information.

A Victorian Christmas Stroll

The Henry B. Plant Museum in Tampa cel ebrates the warmth and spirit of an old-fash ioned holiday with its Victorian Christmas Stroll. Allowing visitors a glimpse into the magic of Christmas past, this holiday expe rience is a wonderful way to celebrate all the season has to ofer with a variety of de

lightful themes and displays in each exhibit room. Decorations include visitor favorites from past years as well as new marvels that are sure to amaze. The Victorian Christmas Stroll will be available at the Henry B. Plant Museum, located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa, from Thursday, December 1 through Fri day, December 23, 10 a.m.8 p.m. daily. Its website, www.plantmuseum.com, has more information.

Santa Fest Christmas Parade And Tree Lighting

Be part of Tampa’s holiday tradition when Santa Fest returns to Curtis Hixon Water front Park again this year. It will open on Sunday, December 4, following the popular parade through downtown Tampa. The pa rade route steps of at 1:30 p.m. and begins at Morgan Street, travels west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive, turns north and ends at Ashley Drive and Cass Street. After the parade, enjoy the activities and entertain ment in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park and stay for the tree lighting at 6 p.m. followed by a screening of The Grinch movie to end the day.

Lakeland Christmas Pa rade

Hosted by the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the City of Lakeland, the Lakeland Christmas Parade will be held on Thursday, December 1 starting at 7 p.m. Participants step of from the RP Funding Center to begin the 1.25-mile course winding through the city’s streets, around Lake Mirror and back down Lemon Street. The floats are decked out to reflect this year’s theme of ‘Christmas Past, Present

Compiled By Jenny Bennett

and Future.’ The best, of course, is saved for last, as the parade wraps up with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus.

Tampa Area Lighted Holiday Boat Parades

Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade will take place on the Saturday before Christ mas, December 17, along the Hillsborough River in down town Tampa. The parade begins at the southern tip of Davis Island, travels through the convention center basin and up to the Heights, where the boats will turn around and head to Sparkman Wharf. Public viewing locations include Ar mature Works, Water Works Park and Chan nel Drive.

The annual Apollo Beach Lighted Boat Parade takes place on Sunday, December 11. It will leave the south channel at 6 p.m. and proceed towards Lands End Marina before winding around Lake Sunrise Basin, back out around Bal Harbor and then up Flamingo Canal before returning and going around Dolphin House at the end of Grand Kaymen Drive, then up the canal leading to Symphony Isles. Come and meet the members of the Tampa Sailing Squadron before the parade at its club house, located at 1250 Apollo Beach Blvd. in Apollo Beach.

The Alafia Lighted Boat Parade is always very popular with local residents. It will take place along the Alafia River from the River view Civic Center to River’s Edge Bar and Grill on Saturday, December 3, departing at 5 p.m.

Vine Vegan Now Open

Danielle Stevens, owner and chef of Vine Vegan, learned to cook from her fam ily. As a daughter of a Latino and a Brit, who was born in Hawaii, raised in Europe and an American through and through, Danielle was sure to balance everything when creating the Vine Vegan menu. Her mission is to bring people together, cap ture the culture of community and use delicious vegan food to do it. Vine Vegan is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Bran don and is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For more informa tion on opening hours and to view the menu, visit its website at www.vine vegan.com or follow it on Facebook and Instagram @vineveganfl.

Cafe Cuba Under New Ownership

Cafe Cuba by Andris is a welcoming family-owned restaurant with a variety of diverse, authentic and flavorful foods and amazing friendly service. Following taking over the business, new owner An dris Lopez has kept everyone’s favorite dishes, made minor tweaks for improve

ment to others and added some of his own recipes. While the restaurant remains Cuban cuisine, the menu is slowly expanding and intro ducing Dominican and Puerto Rican delicacies. Cafe Cuba also o f ers catering for your events. Visit it at 3240 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For more infor mation, visit www.cafecubabyandris. com. Follow it on Facebook at www. facebook.com/cafecubarestaurant and Instagram @cafecubab yandris.

Latitudes Tours Cele brates Four Years Of Cruising Tampa Bay Come and enjoy a oneof-a-kind experience here in Tampa Bay with Latitudes Tours. Lat itudes Tours has been o f ering daily eco-tours, lunch and din ner cruises, small-group bus tours and private fishing char ters in and around Tampa Bay for the last four years and has recently added guided kay ak tours to its selection. The kayak tours leave from several departure points. While kay aking, keep an eye out for dolphin pods, manatees, sting rays, sharks and more. Latitudes Tours can be found at 580 Bahia Beach Blvd. in Ruskin. For more information, visit its website at www.lat itudestours.com or call 813-641-1311.

Law Office Of Samuel C.Higginbottom

Samuel C. Higginbottom is a maritime, insurance and boating injury lawyer who serves individuals and small businesses that rely on the Tampa Bay waterways. His o f ce can be found at 10312 Bloomingdale Ave., Ste. 108-315 in Riverview. With over a decade of experience working at large law firms in the Tampa area, Higginbottom has lots of experience in all types of cases that have involved legal issues, including in the areas of personal injury, insurance dis putes, government contracts, profession al liability, property damage and maritime law. For additional infor mation, visit its website at www. lawsch.com or call 813-825-1267.

R Processor Inc. Helps You To Process Payments

R Processor Inc. makes it aford able for business owners to collect

The Guess Who, a group that’s connect ed with the masses throughout an exultant hit parade spanning 14 Top 40 hits, includ ing “These Eyes,” “Clap for the Wolfman” and “Share the Land,” are among music’s most indelible treasures. “You’re going to see an excellent version of the songs and hear exactly how they should sound or be played,” verified founding member Garry Peterson. They will be performing at the RP Funding Center, located at 701 W. Lime St. in Lake land, on March 22, 2023. Tickets are on sale now at the RP Funding Center Box Ofce, call 863-8348111 or purchase on line at www.rpfund ingcenter.com.

Disaster Recovery Center Opens In

Riverview

The state of Florida and FEMA have opened an additional disaster recovery center at HCC Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview, it is open from 8 a.m.-7 p.m. daily. Disaster recovery centers provide disaster survivors with information from Flori da state agencies, FEMA and the Small Business Administration.

Survivors can get help applying for federal assis tance and disas ter loans, update applications and learn about other resources available. Assistance is also available online at www.disasterassis tance.gov, through the FEMA app or by calling 800-621-3362.

New Dates For Tampa Bay Boat Show

Chart your course for the Florida State Fairgrounds from Friday through Sunday, November 18-20 for the Tampa Bay Boat Show. It o f ers a great way to see millions of dollars’ worth of invento ry and to see and compare all available makes and models in one location, as well as accessories and clothing. Admis sion is free, and the event is open from 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Sunday.

A Letter Of Thanks From A.J. Jamb hekar

By Jenny Bennett

after 19 years of serving this community’s wine and spirit needs, I have decid ed to sell the business and retire. While I am excited for retirement, it would be a disservice to not re flect on the road to this point. With this, I wanted to take the time to thank each and every one of you for your support over the years. My fam ily and I greatly appreciated your busi ness as well as getting to know many of you on a personal level. Whether it was sourcing your favorite hard-to-find craft beer, tracking down a rare bourbon or finding that Cabernet you tried and loved at a restaurant, seeing a truly satisfied customer was my great est pleasure.

The new store has opened under the name LiquorSplit. Getting to know them through the acquisition process, I gained tremendous con fidence they will contin ue to provide this com munity great service for all your alcohol needs.

I wish you all the best moving forward and hope to see you around in the com munity.

Sincerely, Ajay A.J. Jambhekar

MONSTER TRUCKZ SHOW AT EAST BAY RACEWAY WILL BLOW YOUR MIND

Prepare

to have your mind blown away at the big gest, mad dest and wildest event you will ever witness.

This adrenaline-filled show features the most massive Monster Truckz de stroying cars, flying over mind-boggling jumps and pushing drivers and trucks to the brink of destruction. The Extreme Motocross Team will amaze and aston ish as they soar 80 feet above your head doing things that shouldn’t be possible.

The Monster Truckz Chaos Tour is coming to the East Bay Raceway Park, located at 6311 Burts Rd. in Riverview, on Saturday and Sunday, November 26 and 27.

Witness extreme, freestyle moto cross, including right-side-up, sideways and even upside-down feats you never thought possible and the most thrilling and exciting tricks on two wheels. The Extreme Motocross Team will amaze and astonish as they soar 75 feet in dis tance and 35 feet above your head doing things that shouldn’t be possible.

Monster Truckz drivers will be pushing their trucks to do things that shouldn’t be possible, like big air, the two-wheel skill challenge, truck races and of course Monster Truckz Freestyle. Don’t miss Captain Chaos. Watch the captain drive his cars like a madman while crashing, destroying and hitting the wall of death.

For the first time on planet Earth, see a man fired from a Mon ster Truck Cannon. Was man meant to fly? Hope fully this guy is.

Come see Gold Digger, Ballistic, Av alanche, Country Boy and others take their Monster Truckz to the extreme.

Monster trucks are typically about 12 feet wide by 12 feet high and can weigh up to 15,000 pounds with speeds up to 100 mph. All monster trucks are equipped with three shut-o f switches: the RII (Remote Ignition Interrupt), one within the driver’s reach in the cab and another at the rear of the truck so that all electrical power may be shut o f in the event of a rollover. Drivers are required to wear fire suits, safety harnesses, hel mets and head and neck restraints.

Don’t miss the most insane trucks on Earth. There is even a Monster Truckz Tour Pit Party available. Ride in a mon ster truck, get up close to your favorite monster truck, get personal autographs and take pictures with the stars of Mon ster Truckz. Doors open and the pit par ty starts two hours prior to event times.

Seating is first come, first serve, so be sure to arrive early for the best seats and to experience the pit party and the kids’ fun zone.

For show and ticket purchasing infor mation, visit www.monstertruckz.com.

Dear Patrons, It is bittersweet to inform you that

Experience the most insane monster trucks on earth in the Monster Truckz Chaos Tour on Saturday and Sunday, November 26-27 at East Bay Raceway.

IMPACT HOSTS ANNUAL DESIGNER PURSE BING0

Are you looking for a fun and delicious way to get into the holiday spirit while helping a local char ity raise important funds? Then mark your calendars for Thursday, Decem ber 1 because the IMPACT program is hosting a holiday de signer purse bingo.

The event, which will take place at The Regent in Riverview, will ofer 10 rounds of bingo with a de signer purse as the prize for each round.

Tickets to the event cost $40 a person and include one set of 10 bingo cards along with food and beverages (this is an alcohol-free event). Guests will have the op portunity to purchase additional bingo cards and rafe tickets as well as participate in a silent auction.

The event is the annu al fundraiser hosted by IMPACT program, a Brandon-based charity which educates teenagers on the benefits of healthy choic es while avoiding high-risk behaviors.

“This is a great opportunity for commu nity awareness and to provide necessary funds for the IMPACT program to con tinue their eforts in educating, equipping

Staf Report

and empowering teens to avoid high-risk behav ior by making healthy choices,” said Angie Kagey, IMPACT execu tive director.

The event’s title sponsor is The George Shea Team with Sig nature Realty. Additional spon sorship opportu nities are avail able.

“This event is special because it is a fun-filled night for the community to come together to support a wonderful cause,” said Kagey, who added that it is a good way to get into the holiday spirit before the busyness of the season kicks in.

The Regent is lo cated at 6347 Wat son Rd. in Riverview, near Winthrop.

Doors for the event will open at 6 p.m., with bingo starting at 6:30 p.m. For more information, contact Kagey at akagey@ whatisimpact.com or visit www.whatisim pact.com. The deadline to purchase tickets is Wednesday, November 23, and tickets can be purchased at impactdesignerbingo. eventbrite.com.

DR. RANDELL SEHRES CARES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Where the health of all members of the family is concerned, it’s best to have a doctor who not only has much experi ence and expertise but also strives to personally care for patients. That’s the goal of Dr. Randell Sehres.

“My primary focus is to take care of the whole patient. … I’m able to address all of their concerns up to my level of exper tise,” he said.

Dr. Sehres is an award-winning, board-certified fami ly medicine doctor at Absolute Surgical Specialists with over 25 years of experience, which includes orthopedics, dermatology, men’s and women’s health care issues and mental health issues. He’s also a f liated with Brandon Regional Hospital, the HCA net work and St. Joseph’s Hospital.

Born in Miami, he graduated from the University of Miami Leonard M. Miller School of Medicine in 1993 and did his residency in family medicine in Balti more at Franklin Square Hospital. After returning to Florida, he was stationed at MacDill Air Force Base for his four-year commitment to the Air Force, finishing in 2000.

Then in 2002, he started Brandon Family Medical Care, which he had for 17 years until it was bought by Adven tHealth. However, three years later, he

By Taylor Wells

lost his son, Scott, age 24, and chose to take time o f . He also found that he didn’t like working exclu sively for a hospital.

“The 17 years that we had the private practice, we really tailored that prac tice to be, you know, a family practice. We considered our patients; we didn’t treat them like num bers. We had a per sonalized relation ship with them, and that was lost when it was taken over,” said Dr. Sehres.

When he decided to work again, his friend, Dr. Craig Amshel, owner of Ab solute Surgical Specialists, suggested joining his practice, and did so in June. Now, Dr. Sehres can give more time to patients, and he’s been seeing them from Sun City Center and reaching out to those he had taken care of for many years — along with new patients — from Tampa, Brandon and other local areas.

“In family medicine, we’re trained to take care of patients of all ages, so one of my greatest satisfactions was taking care of the family … and seeing the chil dren grow and up and have children of their own,” he said.

Absolute Surgical Specialists is locat ed at 1046 Cypress Village Blvd. in Sun City Center. For an appointment with Dr. Sehres, call 813-633-0081.

Te IMPACT program is hosting its annual designer purse bingo fundraiser on Tursday, December 1.

Dr. Randell Sehres, a family medicine doc tor at Absolute Surgical Specialists and an afliate of Brandon Regional Hospital, the HCA network and St. Joseph’s Hospital.

The Law O f ce of Je f rey Dowd, P.A., located in Brandon, is a law firm for small businesses, handling everything from set ting up to selling and so much more.

Dowd was admit ted to The Florida Bar in 1996 and has experience at all phases of a business with all industries. He has an expertise handling all types of issues, including con tracts, employment, licensing and leasing, franchising and regula tions.

Dowd is passionate about business and vol unteers his time as a certified SCORE mentor with the SCORE Tampa chapter. “I love being a business owner in the Brandon community,” Dowd said. “Keep ing things local is very important to me because most of my customers are lo cal business owners. Many of my clients have become good friends as well, and that’s what community is all about.”

Dowd went to college to be an entre preneur and ended up working in a law firm at the age of 19 to help pay for col lege. He graduated from SUNY College at Bu f alo with a B.S. in business stud ies, but his time working at the law firm inspired him to go to law school.

He graduated from the University

By Libby Hopkins

of Akron School of Law in 1996. In law school, he focused on business, corporate and tax law while working at a law firm writing appel late briefs on work ers’ compensation claims.

If you ask Dowd what makes his firm di f erent from other firms in the area, he will tell you it’s the way his firm handles pricing for its ser vices. “We build our services on a flat fee,” Dowd said. “I bill for the service, not the time. Our clients don’t have to worry about how much money they are spending because they already know how much their service will cost them upfront.”

Meeting his clients’ needs is Dowd’s number one priority. “The hiring of a lawyer is an important decision that should not be based solely upon ad vertisements,” Dowd said. “Before you decide, ask us to send you free written information about our qualifications and experience.”

If you’d like to learn more about the services o f ered at The Law O f ce of Je f rey Dowd, P.A., you can visit his website at www.dowdlaw.com or call 813-773-3529. Dowd’s o f ce is located at 523 E. Lumsden Rd. in Brandon.

Discipline, confi dence and a positive mindset are traits par ents are noticing in their children who at tend the newly opened Freedom Martial Arts in Valrico. It celebrat ed its grand opening on Saturday, November 12. There was bounce houses, food trucks, games and prizes.

“It takes a lot of courage to step outside of your comfort zone and to try new things,” said Amanda Myers, who owns and oper ates Freedom Martial Arts along with her hus band, Nick Myers. “We are dedicated to changing the lives of people one person at a time, through martial arts, education and coaching.”

Classes are available for all ages, from preschool students to adults, there is something for everyone. Tae kwon do, krav maga and Brazilian jiu-jitsu are ofered along with character develop ment and life-skills training. All classes are built upon the company’s philosophy to create freedom from mental limitations and to build confidence through the world of martial arts.

“We strongly believe that martial arts can be for everyone, regardless of age, gender or experience levels,” said chief in structor Nick, who is a sixth-degree black belt

He added, “Kids learn and develop strong,

By Sharon Still

healthy boundaries, and boundaries are essential to helping kids thrive.”

Nick’s passion for martial arts started at the age of 4 when he decided he wanted to be a Power Rang er. By the age of 7, he began studying tae kwon do with the American Taekwon do Association and spent all of his free time training, volun teering and instruct ing martial arts.

“We strive to not only teach martial arts and life skills but also to have fun,” commented Amanda. She began her martial arts journey in 2013, earning her first-degree black belt in tae kwon do.

“You don’t have to be great to start, but you do have to start to be great,” Amanda afrmed, adding that she and Nick love hearing how their program has helped students outside of the facility in everyday life.

“Many parents see huge improvements in their child’s behavior in just a month,” the couple said. “Hearing that makes our day.”

Freedom Martial Arts is located at 3212 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Ste. 102. The facility is open 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Monday through Thursday. For more information or to book your first free lesson, visit www.free dom-ma.com or call 813-777-0887.

Freedom Martial Arts owners Nick and Amanda Myers invite area residents, from pre-school to adult to give their new facility in Valrico a try.

BEST BUDDIES PARTNERS WITH THE MOSAIC COMPANY IN SUPPORT OF INDIVIDUALS WITH IDD

Best Buddies In ternational, a non profit organization dedicated to estab lishing a global vol unteer movement that creates oppor tunities for one-toone friendships, inte grated employment, leadership development and inclusive living for people with intellectual and de velopmental disabilities (IDD), is excited to announce that it is partnering with The Mosaic Company to decrease barriers and improve access for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Through The Mosaic Company’s commit ment of $50,000, students will be provid ed ongoing opportunities to impact their schools and communities through oppor tunities that provide them with leadership, allyship, future employment and general life skills in Best Buddies’ School Friendship Pro gram.

“Best Buddies is grateful for partners like The Mosaic Company who have shown in credible fortitude and commitment through out the challenges stemming from the pan demic,” said Anthony K. Shriver, founder, chairman and CEO of Best Buddies Inter national. “With their support, Best Buddies will continue to reach thousands of partic ipants with IDD and provide them with the resources needed to feel included, confident and optimistic about the road ahead. I am confident that together we will continue to empower this community — connecting advocates and mobilizing our supporters to create a more inclusive world.”

“At Mosaic, we believe in decreasing bar

Staf Report

riers and increasing access for Hillsborough and Polk County stu dents in Best Buddies’ School Friendship Pro gram. These students seek to impact their schools and commu nities through oppor tunities that provide them with leadership, allyship, future em ployment and general life skills,” said Sarah Fedorchuk, vice pres ident of North America government and public afairs. “I am personally familiar with the impact that Best Buddies’ School Friend ship Program has on its participants and the ripple efect it has on the school, families and community, and I am thrilled to see Mo saic partner on this powerful investment.”

Best Buddies Friendship programs (www. bestbuddies.org/what-we-do/friendship/) represent one of Best Buddies’ four key mis sion pillars.

Founded in 1989 by Shriver, Best Buddies is a vibrant organization that has grown from one original chapter to nearly 3,000 middle school, high school and college chap ters worldwide.

For more information, visit www.bestbud dies.org, facebook.com/bestbuddies or twit ter.com/bestbuddies.

The Mosaic Company is one of the world’s leading producers and marketers of concen trated phosphate and potash crop nutrients. Mosaic is a single-source provider of phos phates and potash fertilizers and feed ingre dients for the global agriculture industry. More information on the company is avail able at www.mosaicco.com.

Named by USA Today the “Number One Thing To Do in December in Orlando” when it debuted in 2020, Night of a Million Lights is back for its third year in a spectacular new venue, Is land H2O Water Park, now through January 1, 2023.

The park will be trans formed into a dazzling winter wonderland featuring millions of lights, luminous displays, festive family activities and nightly performances by Du eling Pianos Jingle and Jangle and the strolling a cappella group Santa’s Dancing Reindeer, with DJ Jack Frost Ice Block Party leading an interactive holiday hits dance party. The Emmy Award-winning RWS Entertainment Group will once again partner with Give Kids The World Village (GKTW Village) and Island H2O to produce the event.

Guests can view the lights, watch an allnew dancing lights show on a 5-story wa terslide, visit an interactive children’s holi day activities space, interact with strolling performers, explore themed lightscapes and create priceless holiday memories during visits with Santa.

Proceeds from Night of a Million Lights will benefit GKTW Village, an 89-acre, whimsical nonprofit resort that provides critically ill children and their families from around the world with magical, weeklong, no-cost wish vacations. Discounts are avail

able for groups of 25 or more and Island H2O season pass holders. VIP ex periences, spon sorships and volunteer and vendor oppor tunities are also available.

“It has been a privilege to welcome in the public for a glimpse into our storybook Village during the holidays the past two years. Howev er, in order to preserve the life-changing experience we provide to wish families as increased numbers of guests are able to visit, we have made the decision to move Night of a Mil lion Lights of-site — and truly appreciate Island H2O Water Park’s generosity, hospi tality and support,” said GKTW President and CEO Pamela Landwirth.

“It’s an honor to help Give Kids The World deliver happiness and hope to critically ill children and their families by hosting Central Florida’s most popular new holiday tradition at Island H2O Water Park,” said Island H2O general manager Jim Kunau. “We invite the entire community to join us at Night of a Million Lights at Island H2O for 52 nights of family fun, live performances, delicious food and holiday cheer while helping to make wishes come true for families in our commu nity and around the world.”

Island H2O Water Park is located at 3230 Inspiration Dr. in Kissimmee. For more in formation and tickets, visit www.gktw.org/ lights.

TALENTED YOUNG ACTRESS, MODEL AND ENTREPRENEUR STANDS UP FOR OTHERS THROUGH HER PLATFORM

Since making movies in the community, local film production company Showtown American Pic tures has stumbled across the next big star, Avaryana Rose, a young actor, model and entrepreneur who also works to make a diference in the world.

Rose has worked with Showtown American Pic tures before in The Beast Comes at Midnight and will be working with them again on its new film, Bitter Souls a classic-style horror movie.

“The Showtown American Pictures fam ily is elated to be work ing with the talented young actress Avary ana Rose on our South ern Gothic Voodoo fea ture, Bitter Souls,” said Ed McKeever, executive producer at Showtown American Pictures, “Av aryana is a phenomenal actress with a tremen dously supportive fan base who cannot wait to see her in a good, old-fashioned Central Florida monster mov ie. Her fans have been blowing up our mes sage box since announcing.”

Rose said she never really planned on be coming an actor, but after working on her first project, she fell in love. By acting, she

By Makenzie Atkins

has learned to come out of her shell and find new ways to express herself so she can discover who she is.

Not only is Rose a tal ented actor, but she has also become an activist, most importantly against bullying. Rose said because she has been bullied since she was young, she feels a strong pull to speak for those who have been vic tims of bullying as well.

Rose started her compa ny, B.A.B.E., Badass Babe Empire, as a way to express her feelings against bul lying. At first, it was just an awareness social platform and has since turned into an online shop where she sells things like T-shirts and hats to raise awareness about bullying.

“I created Babes Against Bullying to fight back against bullying and to spread aware ness about just how bad models like me, male and female, are cyber bullied,” said Rose. “That led to the creation of my brand, B.A.B.E., where I sell merch with the in tention of further spreading awareness.”

For more information, follow Avaryana on socials or contact McKeever at 6092410-5471.

Avaryana Rose stars in Showtown American Pictures’ newest flm, Bitter Souls.

Avaryana Rose works with Dean Cain in J.C. Films upcoming Not For Sale, which debuts in 2023 to raise aware ness against human trafcking.

Plant City Entertain ment will present True West during a limited two weekend run. True West, a Pulitzer Prize Finalist for Drama in 1983, was written by American playwright, Sam Shepard. Plant City Entertainment will bring this dark comedy play to life live on stage for a limited run in No vember. Performances will take place at Plant City Entertainment’s Theatre located at 101 N. Thomas St. in his toric downtown Plant City.

Plant City Entertain ment will present True West on Friday through Sunday, November 1820. The Friday and Sat urday shows will take place at 8 p.m. and the Sunday shows are at 2 p.m.

Plant City Entertainment will present True West, a dark comedy by American playwright, Sam Shepard, during a limited two weekend period just before Tanksgiving at their delightful theatre in downtown Plant City. Tis is one you will not want to miss.

True West is about the sibling rivalry be tween two estranged brothers who have reconnected. Keith Graham, who directs True West along with April Golombeck and also stars as Lee in the production ex plained, “Two adult brothers, sons of a des ert-dwelling alcoholic father, still trying to find their way. Austin the responsible Hol lywood screenwriter against Lee the dere lict thieving drifter. Opposites attack when long forgotten Lee suddenly appears and invades Austin’s movie deal, even trying to sell a story of his own; one Lee says is true, about the True West.

Golombeck said, “This show is an ac

By Kathy L. Collins

tor’s dream. Meaty, emotional roles that take the actor and the audience on a roller coaster ride. The show is for mature audienc es due to language and content, but the story itself is relatable to many.”

True West fea tures a veteran cast who have a local fol lowing and will not disappoint. The cast includes Vince Evan gelista as Austin, Keith Graham as Lee, Bob Whitmore as Saul, and Judy Heck Lowry as Mom.

Year after year, Plant City Entertain ment excites audienc es and wins awards for excellence. They have been pulling from their talented pool of both professional and non-professional actors, directors, and crew since 1980. Assisted by Joshua Mange, co-directors April Golombek and Keith Gra ham have put one full year of preparation into this special presentation of unique and unforgettable theatre in homage to the late Sam Shepard who passed in 2017.

True West has it all- coyotes, crickets, and chaos. Audience members should sad dle up for dysfunction and destruction in Sam Shepard’s comic tragedy from Ameri can dream to nightmare.

For more information and to get tickets, please visit www.plantcityentertainment. com.

ICE SKATING AND WINTER VILLAGE RETURN TO TAMPA JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

This year, celebrate the holiday season by visiting the Win ter Village and its outdoor ice-skating rink. It is a great hol iday activity for the whole family. The Winter Village is lo cated in Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park at 600 N. Ashley Dr. in downtown Tampa. The Winter Village is open Friday, Novem ber 18 through Janu ary 4, 2023.

Get into the holiday spirit with a visit to the Winter Village located along Tampa’s beautiful riverwalk at Curtis Hixon Wa terfront Park. You can enjoy holiday sights and sounds, ice skating and even curling this year.

Located along the Tampa Riverwalk, Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is trans formed each year with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays, which is great for children and adults alike.

Each year, a giant ice-skating rink is erected on the perimeter of the park. You must purchase and reserve tickets for ice skating in advance. Tickets are $17, and the cost includes skate rentals. All hours are subject to weather and rink condi tions.

In addition to the 5,000-square-foot ice-skating rink, the Winter Village fea tures random Santa sightings, the Curtis Hixon Choo Choo, shopping and snack and beverage options. The Curtis Hixon Choo Choo ofers a five-minute ride through the park where riders can enjoy the sights, lights and sounds of the Win

ter Village.

The Tampa The atre will ofer two holiday movies on the lawn on Satur day, November 19 and Friday, Decem ber 16 at 6 p.m.

Back this year is the popular Win ter Village Express. The family-friend ly excursion takes you from Whiting Station, located in downtown to Ybor City, and back on the TECO Line Street car. The one-hour trip features a holiday sing-along, holiday trivia, milk and cook ies and added surprises along the way.

New to the holiday celebrations at the Winter Village this year is curling. This will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Equipment will be available for rental. There will also be a curling league. This will be available from Wednesday, November 30 through Wednesday, December 28. Games will be played every Wednesday from 6-10 p.m. Katie Collins of Valrico said, “The Win ter Village is truly special. It really puts you in the holiday spirit and is a fun way to spend a few hours in downtown Tam pa.”

For more information on hours and rentals, please visit www.wintervillag etampa.com.

BRANDON BALLET TO PERFORM THE NUTCRACKER THIS HOLIDAY SEASON

The Brandon Bal let will present three live performances of Tchaikovsky’s holiday classic, The Nutcracker The performances will be held on Saturday, De cember 10 at 7:30 p.m. and on Sunday, Decem ber 11 at 2 and 5:30 p.m. All performances will be held at Riverview High School, located at 11311 Boyette Rd. in Riverview.

The Nutcracker is a magical Christmas production that is both imaginative and a timeless classic that is great for the whole family.

Photo courtesy of Ricardo Romero. Te Brandon Ballet is celebrating the Season of Discovery with three live per formances of Te Nutcracker at Riverview High School this December.

Tickets are available online at www.bran donballet.org. Tickets are $35 for adults and $25 for children 12 and under and seniors. Homeschool students can get tickets for $15 per person. For the latter, please email dance@brandonballet.org. Tickets are available at the door, but all prices increase by $5.

The Nutcracker is set on Christmas Eve with a gathering of friends and family. During the performance, toys come to life and rats grow to life size characters. Clara is given a toy soldier by her uncle, Herr Dros selmeyer, and is transported to magical lands, including the Land of Snow and the Land of Sweets. The toy soldier turns into a magical nutcracker. Clara meets the Sugar

Plum Fairy, and the au dience is left wondering whether it was a real trip or just a magical dream.

This year, the role of Sugar Plum Fairy will be reprised by Courtney Moody. Drosselmeyer will be played by new company member An dres Gomez.

Hannah Townend, administrative director for the Brandon Ballet, said, “This performance is the company’s first Nutcracker under new artistic direction of Alice H. Bock and Brent wood Townend. Along with rehearsal direc tor Courtney Moody, they are proud to pres ent a production in which some of the lead roles in act two will be danced by student company members.”

Townend added, “Of special note is Jada Stevenson, a senior at Blane Hugh School who has danced with Brandon Ballet for many years. Stevenson will be performing the lead Arabian role for the first time.”

“Our 2022 production will include a Nut cracker Prince, and Drosselmeyer will be included in the snow scene. This change has never been done in any other Nutcrack er production. Audiences will be surprised at the athletic and theatrical ability,” said Townend.

For information, visit www.brandonballet. org or call 684-4282.