Favorite Things Sweepstakes Highlights Best Of Shop Local & Best Early Bird Prize Ever By Marie Gilmore
Favorite Things, and we have gone to local businesses and asked them to give us ideas for a few of the top items available this holiday season. From now until midDecember, we will be collecting Our Favorite Things all throughout the communiings vorite Th bird will ty and putting a F e th me rly them togethr, the ea i took ho Wietreckd Prize! This yeanny FishHawk. ri a h S r a n e er in one giant e y ra -P t G s -a a s h L ke inc g from P Sweepsta gift basket that will be given Holiday a Big Green Eg win out in a Sweepstakes for our readers. “We have had so many great For three years, Osprey items coming in and someone is Observer newspapers has been going to be very excited to partnering with local retailers to receive all of these great items publish the Holiday Favorite from the businesses in our comThings Sweepstakes and gift munity,” said Kerrie Hoening, guide, and this year promises to be one of the best yet! This year, Advertising Sales Manager. “We have such great success we've partnered with our friends over the last two seasons and at Pinch-a-Penny FishHawk to we are excited to share some of offer an early bird prize of a Big this year's treasures from our Green Egg Grill! We are so excited to have such a great prize for local small businesses with our readers.” our readers! Bridget Jenkins Wilson, owner The campaign is called, the of Cardinal Roofing and a memOsprey Observer, A Few of Our
ber of the Valrico/FishHawk Chamber of Commerce, said the Chamber is also focused on encouraging local shopping this holiday season. “Anything we can do to keep our local businesses in the spotlight is great for our community,” she said. “And, this is a great opportunity for Osprey Observer readers to have a chance to win an amazing
holiday gift.” To enter, email Sweepstakes to contest@ospreyobserver.com or fill out the entry form and send in by mail, fax or email. Last year, more than 500 local residents entered the campaign and ONE lucky winner walked away with a prize package worth more than $2,000. Good luck and thank you for shopping local!
i
Holiday Coins From Corbin’s, Spa Gifts From DayDreams And A Little Shine From McAuley Corbin’s Stamp & Coin Is Your Source For Treasured Family Heirlooms If you are looking for the perfect gift, maybe for a family with a new baby or to celebrate a momentous occasion, a special coin may be the perfect keepsake. Start a new family tradition by commemorating the Christmas season each year. Gift Basket Item: Holiday coin Corbin’s Holiday collections Silver Coin are the perValue: fect way. Silver coins &29.95 are 1 troy oz. of .999 fine silver and are available for $29.95 in a gift box or as an ornament that can be displayed. The coins measure 39mm in diameter and have a reeded edge. There are nine varieties this year: Baby's First Christmas, Bells with Season's Greetings, Santa with Merry Christmas, Angel with A Christmas Wish, Puppies with We Wish You a Merry Christmas, Farm/Tractor with Merry Christmas,
P
Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas with Poinsettias, Manger scene with Oh Holy
Journey To Tranquility At DayDreams Day Spa With all the stress the holidays bring, what better gift for someone (or yourself) than to escape for a few hours to DayDreams Day Spa & Bath Shop which can be made possible with a gift card to Night and Daydreams. Train Station With many different types of spa with a train packages to choose from including and snow. All massage therapy, body therapy, skin have the care therapy, nail and pedicure treatsame reverse: ments, waxings & brows, airbrush ‘Best Wishes tanning, maternity services, services For for men Peace and for And teens Joy This Holiday Season’ and and the date.The only ones with more, the date on the front are the there is Farm, the Train and Baby's someFirst Christmas. The coins thing come either in an Air-Tite for capsule with a gift box everyone. The shop in Gift Basket Item: Daydreams also offers spa prodor in an ornament holder. The ornament 65 Minute Serenity ucts which would also make holder does not fit great gifts. Pevonia Skin Care Stone Massage into the gift box. are offered. products Value: Corbin’s Coins is Gift certificates are available $115 located at 209 N. Kings at the Spa, located at 658 Ave. in Brandon and is Oakfield Dr. in Brandon or online at open Monday thru Friday from 9 www.daydreamsdayspa.com. A seca.m.- 4 p.m. and Saturday from 9 ond DayDreams location is in Lakeland at 1463 Town Center Dr. a.m.-1 p.m. Call 651-3266.
CORBIN’S
Stamp & Coin
By Michelle Colesanti Gift Basket Item: 14k Tin Cup 89mm Pearl Necklace Value: $452
For more information on this location, call 863-686-5859.
McAuley Fine Jewelry Is A Gem In The Community This season, design something uniquely ‘you’ to surprise your special someone. McAuley Fine Jewelry will help you plan your custom-made piece of jewelry. Jewelry repairs are also done on premises as well as repairs and restoration of old watches. McCauley Fine Jewelry is located on Oakfield Drive, in the Atlantic Village Plaza, Kings Ave. & Oakfield Dr. It is open from Tuesday to Friday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m.
Gift Of Music Showcase, Cooking Classes At Rolling Pin & Nothing Bundt Cakes Call 689-8124 or visit www.mcauleyfinejewelry.com.
A Few Of Your Favorite Things Can Be Found At Music Showcase Music is the international lanGift Basket guage that is understood and Item: enjoyed by all. Ukelele and $20 Share your love Gift Certificate of music by Total Value: offering voice or $50 instrument lessons to your favorite student. Instrument rentals start at $10 (if you don’t want to make a purchase). If you sign up online, the instrument will be delivered to your school. All of your music needs can be found at Music Showcase, which offers competitive pricing on sheet music and Rolling Pin books. There Cooking Classes is an in-house & Norma Fleming repair shop, Themed Gift and private Basket and group lesTotal Value: sons are $300 offered.
Is your child interested in musical theatre, acting, or maybe photography? Sign them up at the Florida Academy of Performing Arts at Music Showcase. Music Showcase is located at 402 Oakfield Dr. in Brandon. For more information, call 685-5998 or visit www.MusicShowcaseOnline.com and www.FAOPA.org.
Great Gift Ideas and Classes Help Make Rolling Pin A Great Stop For Holiday Gift Needs If you are stuck coming up with creative gift ideas, make a visit to Rolling Pin to find something for every chef in your life. Rolling Pin offers cooking classes for all types of meals. Stop by and browse the gourmet retail store’s extensive collection of classic and unique kitchenware. You will find everything from barware, bakeware, aprons, towels and mitts, coffees and teas, cookware, electrics, gadgets,
gifts for entertaining, knives and cutting boards, outdoor cooking and more. Enjoy shopping in the specialty food and wine departments. There are many great reasons to attend Rolling Pin’s cooking classes, whether you enjoy cooking or just eating, from great date nights to learning about new foods, this is a great gift idea anyone would be excited to receive. It is also Brandon’s only Platinum Dealer for the Big Green Egg, the ultimate cooking experience. Rolling Pin Emporium is open for private events too. Gift cards are also available. Rolling Pin is located at 2080 Badlands Dr. in Brandon. Call 6532418 or visit http://rollingpinonline.com/ for more information.
Nothing Bundt Cakes Are Perfect Desserts To Add To Your Holiday Meals Nothing Bundt Cakes creates cakes using hand-crafted recipes that not only remind you of home, but
By Michelle Colesanti
also open you to a new world. At Nothing Bundt Cakes, you get real eggs, butter and cream cheese in every cake. Not only do these cakes look great, they taste even better. These are great holiday gifts to take to all of your holiday events. It is located at 11238 Sullivan Street in Winthrop Town Centre. Everything you need to make your party complete is available. The hardest part is choosing from the 10 delicious varieties, including a ‘featured’ flavor. Hours are Monday to Friday 9 a.m.-7 p.m.,
Gift Basket Item: 3 Bundtlet Tower; plus gift card for one free bundlet per month for one year Value: $62.85
Something New At Mainstream Boutique, Make A Masterpiece At Pinot’s Palette By Michelle Colesanti Saturday 10 a.m.-7 p.m. and Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com or call 409-2394 to place your order ahead of time.
Mainstream Boutique You can visit Mainstream Boutique, a retail clothing store, in Winthrop to get some great ideas on gifts as well as attire for the holiday season. Everything in the store is new. It carries clothing, jewelry, accessories and shoes. You can purchase head to toe. Enjoy new arrivals weekly. The exclusive brand of jeans called Mac and Me is available. They are the best jeans for all body types. It feels like you are wearing your pajamas. They fit in all the right places. Once a woman purchases one, they are back for more. Another popular brand in stock is Liverpool. All jewelry is handmade and
made in the USA. Some of the jewelry is made locally and are one-of-akind pieces. Other services offered are One on One Style sessions, Ladies Night Out and shopping for a cause. Mainstream Boutique is located in Winthrop at 11231 Sullivan St. in Riverview. Hours are Monday to Friday from 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and Sunday from 12 Noon-4 p.m. Call 643-0090.
Pinot’s Palette Gift Certificate Offers Creative Gift Ideas For For those in Mainstream: your gift life that Value $100 enjoy creativity, consider purchasing a gift card to Pinot’s Palette. It provides everything you need for an unforgettable evening of painting, fun, beer and wine for either a girls’ night out or a date night. Both seasoned painters and newbies will enjoy the experience of creating their own personal pieces of art. You may also want to consider
Locally Owned and Operated
Ever ything Cooking and Entertaining Gourmet Foods and Boutique Wines Cooking Classes, Private Parties & Corporate Events
Brandon’s Big Green “EggQuarters”
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0400 or email Brandon@PinosPalette.com. Visit www.PinotsPalette.com/Brandon.
gifting a piece of art you have specially created at Pinot’s Palette for that special person in your life. For more information, call 685-
Pinot’s Palette Holiday Parties Will Gift Certificate Sparkle At The Regent And Wood The Regent is a Palette Christmas great place to host Painting your corporate holiday party. Plan now to Value: $50
‘wow’ your staff or clients by hosting an event in this spectacu-
Christmas C ins 1oz Pure Silver
$29.95
plus tax each
Gift Boxed or Ornaments
CORBIN’S
Stamp & Coin 209 N. Kings Ave. Brandon, Florida 33510
813-651-3266 corbincoin@verizon.net
Mon-Fri 9am - 4pm
Sat 9am - 1pm
*Silver prices subject to change.
Book The Regent & Suncoast RV Rental lar setting. The Regent is one of largest venues in the area, but it can also be a small, intimate and stylish one. It can accommodate intimate parties of 50 upwards to 600 seated. The Regent hosts many events including breathtaking wedding ceremonies and receptions, successful fundraisers, glamorous galas, tradeshows, corporate training and seminars, proms, homecomings, church services and even sweet 16 parties. When planning your next event, Suncoast RV consider The Rental Gift Regent. Certificate Hours are Tuesday to Value: Friday from 9 $200 a.m.-5 p.m. and
By Michelle Colesanti
Saturday and Sunday by appointment only. It is closed on Monday. The Regent is located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. For more information, call 5712494 or email info@experiencetheregent.com. Visit www.ExperienceTheRegent.com.
Creative Family Memories With Suncoast RV Rental Whether you are planning a trip out to Yellowstone, a Florida staycation, a Gift Basket college campus Item: tour or a football Flower tailgating weekend, Suncoast Bouquet RV Rental has an Value: RV to suit most $150 needs and budgets.
Family-owned and operated since 2005, Suncoast is in the business of Continued on Page 30
PINOTSPALETTE.COM/BRANDON/HOLIDAY
Pinot’s Palette Brandon • 2086 Badlands Dr. • 813.618.3064
One Lucky Winner Will Receive Big Green Egg From FishHawk Pinch A Penny Do you enjoy cooking and barbequing? If so, it is time for a new tradition and Pinch a Penny, through the Osprey Observer’s holiday sweepstakes, is offering one lucky reader the opportunity to win a Big Green Egg, which will be the ‘early bird’ holiday prize. That means that you need to get your entries in to the Osprey Observer early as the drawing will be held in mid-December. What is the Big Green Egg? It is a complete outdoor cooking system (the only outdoor cooker you will ever need). It blends ancient traditions and modern technology. It is strong and durable and provides better heat insulation than any other outdoor cooker on the market. The Big Green Egg stands alone as the most versatile barbecue and outdoor cooking product on the market. You can make everything from pizza to ribs, or holiday dinner and desserts. Whatever you choose, it
By Michelle Colesanti
will exceed all your expectations for culinary perfection. The drawing will be for a MiniMax style Big Green Egg. The value on this popular backyard addition is $800. It is an invaluable culinary tool for restaurant chefs, and the one that will be given away is designed with the height of a Mini yet all the volume capabilities of a Small. It has 133 sq. in. of cooking area. The MiniMax comes with an easy to grip carrier, so it is perfect as a tableside cooker at your outdoor party or a traveling EGG for motor homes or tailgating. The MiniMax will come complete with the stand. Since pool season never really ends in Florida, it is also a great time to consider pool items or gift certificates for pool service as holiday gifts. Stop by to get some great ideas. The FishHawk Pinch-A-Penny located at 16715 FishHawk Blvd. in the Winn Dixie Plaza in Lithia. Call 6553700.
Give The Gift Of Mobile Massage & Go Under The Sea AT The Florida Aquarium By Michelle Colesanti helping families make unforgettable memories. New model Class C and Class A RVs with TVs inside and out, automatic awnings and all of the comforts of home. Plan a holiday trip this season or surprise family, friends or a loved one with holiday gift certificates for an RV trip. Live in the Action. Call 984-0107 or visit www.suncoastrvrental.com to view fleet or book now.
Give A Gift Of Relaxation Daniella's Mobile Massage offers Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Prenatal and Sports Massage. Her goal is to provide pain and stress relief through therapeutic massage all in the convenience of your home. She is a professional, licensed Massage Therapist and has 16 years of experience Gift Certificate as well as a background in Physical For One Hour Therapy. Free Daniella’s Daniella offers Mobile Massage a flexible schedule. Value $65 To schedule an appointment or to get gift certificates, which make great holiday gifts, call 323-4901or email
dveten@gmail.com. Visit on Facebook at Daniellas Mobile Massage.
more. Adoption packages information, call 273-4000 or visit make great gifts for holiwww.flaquarium.org. days, birthdays or any Look Great For The Holidays; special occasion. Redefined Beauty Offers Many The Florida Aquarium Non-Surgical Options Gift Your Family also offers a variety of Florida Aquarium Redefined Beauty offers nontours, cruises and dive Passes surgical options such as experiences which Gift Basket Item: There are plenty Neuromodulators, Dermal Fillers, would also make FL Aquarium great gifts. fish in the sea and plenty at the Kybella, Laser Hair Removal, Florida Aquarium too. The fish and IPL/Photofacial, Tattoo Removal, Family 4-Pack The Florida other sea life and birds housed at Total Value: Aquarium is located Fractional Skin Resurfacing, Long the Aquarium allow you Pulse ND: Yag (Vein Treatment), at 701 Channelside $100 to see them up close Peels, Facials, Skin Care, Make Up Dr. in Tampa. For more and personal. The Florida Aquarium offers great holiday gift ideas. Why not purchase gift certificates for your family or friends to visit the Aquarium. If you purchase annual membership passes, your Purchase $100 in Gift Certificates, gift will continue to be used throughout the year. You can D Ti l P l directly help support the care and conservation of animals at The Florida Aquarium and in the wild by symboli405 S. Kings Ave, Brandon, FL 33511 cally adopting an animal of your Re-Definebeauty.com choice. By doing this, you are helping to care for 7,000+ animal residents, save imperiled and endangered species in the wild and so much
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A Gift Of Redefine Beauty, Catering & Toffee Gifts, Pets & More At Kim’s Natural and MicroChanneling/MicroNeedling. All patients deserve to be treated with honesty and respect and will come to know that the knowledge and expertise at Redefined Beauty will bring the best results.
reason that you can’t enjoy them yourself too. There are no preservatives and it is made in small batches with only the finest ingredients. Gluten free options are offered too. Toffee Tradition & DiMisa 721 Gourmet Catering is located at 8205 S. US Hwy. 301 in Riverview. Visit toffeetradition.com or visit on Facebook at www.facebook.com/toffeetradition/ to discover the latest specials. Call 758-8472.
Cater Your Holiday Parties Through DiMisa 721 Gourmet Catering Offering Italian Specialties Jennifer Rhoades, who has a long Sicilian heritage and grew up in the kitchen cooking with her grandmother offers gourmet catering. She developed a love of cooking at a young age. The dishes created are authentic Italian; all hand-made sauces and dishes, and hand tossed meat balls. Enjoy items such as Nonna Josephine’s hand-breaded chickToffee Traditions Will Satisfy Your en cutlet with mac n cheese or Joey D’s Sweet Tooth Meatball Sub, named after loved With over 40 years of tradition, ones. Meals are available individuTwo Bags of ally via take-out or through her Toffee Tradition & DiMisa 721 Gourmet Catering offers fresh Toffee (choco- catering services. Why not treat handmade buttery toffees. late and white your office staff to a holiday Jennifer Rhoades, owner, is lunch catered by DiMisa 721 chocolate) Gourmet Catering? excited to share her family traditions of making delicious Value $30 You will find their walk-up window toffee with the commuat 8205 S US nity, which will make Hwy 301, just Italian Family a great gift to bring north of the Alafia to someone’s home Meal of choice River next door to you are visiting this Peck’s. Visit on (Feeds 4-6) holiday season. Of Facebook at Value $45 course, there is no Redefined Beauty Gift Certificate is located at 405 S. For Laser Hair Kings Ave. in Removal Brandon. For more Value $500 information, call 8203138 or email info@redefinebeauty.com. Please visit our website at www.re-definebeauty.com.
A Tampa family tradition. Our toffee tradition started over 40 years ago.
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Some favorites are: Chocolate Pecan White Chocolate Walnut Chocolate Almond Coconut White Chocolate Pumpkin Pecan
Pick up at our location at 8205 S. US Hwy 301, Riverview (at Riverview Rd) • 813-758-8472
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www.facebook.com/toffeetradition/ to discover the latest specials or call 7588472.
By Michelle Colesanti
Pet Gift Basket Value $100
Don’t Forget Your Pet’s In the Holiday Celebrations Your pets are part of the family and you don’t want them to miss out on the holiday celebrations. Kim’s Natural Pet Foods has everything you need to give your pets a happy, healthy life specializing in holistic foods made from real ingredients like meat, fish, and healthful vegetables; not byproducts, it offers a great selection of all natural foods as well as
unique natural chews and treats, including a frozen section featuring all natural raw food diets. All foods are American made, corn, wheat, soy, and gluten free. You will find natural remedies for worms, fleas and ticks. Kim’s also offers a wide variety of toys, dog and cat bedding, apparel and supplies. Located at 3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd. in Valrico. For information, call 684-3663 or visit kimsnaturalpetfoods.com.
Family Owned & Operated
Specializing in Hollistic Foods made in the USA from real ingredients with no byproduct.
Pamper Your Pets for the Holidays! purchase of $5.00 OFF $50 or more Exp. 12/15/18 Not to be combined with any other offers
Visit our store for free & helpful advice on the nutrition and health of your pets.
3110 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Valrico 813-684-3663 www.kimsnaturalpetfoods.com
Page 32
Valrico Edition
Center Place To Kick Off The Holidays With 8th Annual Holiday Tea Center Place will hold its 8th Annual Holiday Tea on Sunday, December 2 at 2:30 p.m. This event is strictly for adults 18 years and older. Individual tickets are $35 per person. All funds Gather your friends, raised at the put on your most fesevent benefit arts tive hat and kick off the holidays by programming at attending Center Center Place. Place’s 8th Annual You can Holiday Tea. sponsor a table of eight. Table sponsors can set and decorate their own tables. You can have Center Place decorate your table for just $100. You must reserve your table by November 23. Ladies are encouraged to dress up and put on their most festive hats Lisa Rodriguez, Marketing Director for Center Place said, “This is a great event. Join us for a delightful experience of teas, amazing savories, desserts, scones and Devonshire cream, all handmade by our wonderful Tea Committee. We will have special prizes awarded to the most elegant and whimsical hats and tables.” The theme for this year’s tea is “It’s Tea Time!” This year’s entertainment will be a performance by The Southern Company Chorus. Rodriguez said, “Southern Company Chorus is a local group of fabulous ladies who will get you into the holiday spirit.”
By Kathy L. Collins
In addition, to beautifully decorated tables, whimsical hats and delicious treats, you will not want to miss Center Place’s fabulous silent auction. Center Place’s silent auction is traditionally filled with a variety of gift baskets for men, women and children. You are sure to find something at the silent auction. “This is a great place to do your holiday shopping while supporting our non-profit art center,” said Rodriguez. “We will have beautiful one of a kind baskets and items for all those special people in your life. Another great idea is to purchase a table and invite your close friends and family to enjoy the tea with you,” added Rodriguez. Center Place is a 501(c)(3) non-profit that has been serving the greater Brandon community for over 50 years. Art classes are offered for both children and adults. Center Place is a great venue for your next party, reception or civic meeting. To get your individual tickets or to become a table sponsor, please contact Center Place at 685-8888 or visit www.centerplacebrandon.org. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon.
Volume 15, Issue 11
Chaberek Family Christmas Tree Lot Opening Soon At Newsome High
By Michelle Caceres
The holidays FishHawk resican be steeped in dent Frances Clyde many family tradiChavez is tions, from sending impressed by the holiday cards to family’s commitgoing caroling, but ment to give back to one FishHawk famithe community. ly’s annual tradition In addition to is more work than donating a portion play. of their proceeds to Darlene Newsome Athletic Find the perfect Christmas tree at Chaberek and her Booster Club and Chaberek Family Christmas tree lot in front of Newsome High School, opening donating several family own the day after Thanksgiving. Chaberek Family trees to the school Christmas Trees, now in its eleventh and its teachers, the Chabereks give year, selling premium quality Frasier firs trees to families going through financial from North Carolina. difficulties. “It’s become our favorite seasonal “Reach out to us on our Facebook business,” said Chaberek, who also page and message us if you know of a owns a stand that sells fireworks in June family in need,” she said. and July. Last year, she celebrated her birthShe sells approximately 1,100 trees day (December 17) by giving away five each year, ranging in size from five to 12 trees and then five more before ft. tall. Prices start at about 50 dollars. Christmas Eve. FishHawk resident Shannon “Part of the fun of this business is Sharesky and her family make a visit to being able to help families during this the tree lot their own family tradition. time of giving,” said Chaberek. “My family looks forward to picking Hours of operation are 9 a.m. – 8 out our tree each year,” she said. “The p.m. on the day after Thanksgiving trees are always the best quality and (opening day) then Monday – Friday last from the day we buy it until we take 3:30 p.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday 9 a.m. – 8 it down after the first of the year.” p.m. and Sunday 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. One reason why Chaberek trees “If you’re looking for the perfect tree last longer than others is because her for your home or business look no furfarmer cuts the trees just before shipther because this is the place where you ment. will find it,” said Chavez. “Our trees are cut and shipped For more information about the Thanksgiving week and are delivered to Chaberek’s tree lot visit its Facebook us in a refrigerated truck to help keep page at Chaberek Family Christmas them alive and fresh,” said Chaberek. Trees.
* Offer Expires 1/1/19
November 2018
Valrico Edition
Page 33
Center Place Presents Annual Christmas Card Lane And Holiday Paint Party
By Kathy L. Collins Center This is a Place will kick great opportunioff the holiday ty for businessseason with es, local nonChristmas Card profits, service Lane beginning groups and on Saturday, other organizaNovember 10 tions to highlight and running their business or through the organization by New Year. Lifeparticipating in size holiday Christmas Card cards, created Lane. Center Place will once again host Christmas Card by area busiTo kick off Lane this November. Life size cards will be nesses and Christmas Card displayed along South Parsons Ave. and can be organizations, viewed through the New Year. The kickoff off for Lane, Center this exciting time of the year will be a Holiday Paint Place will host a will line the Party on Saturday, November 10. streets around Holiday Paint Center Place (specifically along South Party on Saturday, November 10 from Parsons Ave. and around Clayton Lake). 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. Tickets are $20. This Lisa Rodriguez, Marketing Director event is good for everyone including chilfor Center Place said, "We received great dren six and older. Children must be feedback from last year's Christmas Card accompanied by a paid adult. Lane. Some people said things like 'Wow! "We will be painting a Winter What a great art project for the holidays' Snowman on canvas. Leading this paint or 'It gives our community a festive look.’" party will be one of Center Place's Rodriguez added, "This year we hope to instructors, Jennie Sikora-Muehl. Space have many more people participate. It is is limited so get your tickets early," said open to businesses, service clubs, organ- Rodriguez. "Everyone will go home with a izations, school groups and families." masterpiece," added Rodriguez. Rodriguez said, "It is a wonderful way to Center Place Fine Arts is a 501(c)(3) show your love of community and wish non-profit that has been serving the everyone a Happy Holiday." greater Brandon area since 1976. To create a card, please call Center Center Place is located at 619 Place at 685-8888 or visit www.centerVonderburg Dr. in Brandon. For informaplacebrandon.org. The entry fee is $25 tion on Christmas Card Lane, the per card. The deadline to enter is Holiday Paint Party and other events Monday, November 5. Delivery and set happening at Center Place, visit up is on either Thursday, November 8 or www.centerplacebrandon.org or call Friday, November 9. 675-8888.
Enter the Sweepstakes to win a prize basket of items from The Favorite Things Shop Local Campaign. Why would you like to win the Shop Local Sweepstakes Basket?
Name: Address: Phone: Email: Community: Enter to win online at contest@opreyobserver.com, fax to 657-4469 or mail to 918 Lithia Pinecrest Rd., Brandon, FL 33511.
Also, enter by email at contest@ospreyobserver.com
Page 34
Volume 15, Issue 11
Valrico Edition
Enjoy Christmas Every Day At Busch Gardens Christmas Town™ Staff Report
everyone can delight in a menu bursting with delicious holiday delicacies. No Christmas celebration is complete without a visit from St. Nick and guests will have the opportunity to take a photo with Santa as part of their experience. Brunch with Santa is available at the Serengeti Overlook Restaurant on select dates from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Come early with the whole family and make Christmas Town the unforgettable backdrop for your holiday card! Santa will be awaiting your visit at Santa’s House presented by Coca-Cola®. Additional
amazing photo opportunities are around every corner: the enchanting twinkling light tunnel leading into Stanleyville, all your favorite characters at Rudolph’s® Winter Wonderland, Ice and Poinsettia princesses along pathways, larger-thanlife Cookie Monster® and Elmo® nutcracker figures along the Sesame Street® Safari of Fun walkway, and playful penguins at the holiday-themed Penguin Point. Guests will discover even more merriment in the Christmas Town Village, celebrating the season in a new location.
Greeted by friendly snowmen, guests will be immersed in festive fun along the Gwazi pathway, including merry merchandise and tasty holiday treats. In this enchanting realm, little ones can even take a ride on the fan-favorite Jingle Bell Express miniature train. Indulge in winter whiskey and wine tastings while completing your holiday shopping with unique gifts from artisans around the world at the Artisan Market at Xcursions and around the park. For a gift that gives all year, shoppers can select a new Busch Gardens Annual Pass with benefits to enjoy exciting events, worldclass coasters, and up-close animal encounters. From Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum, guests can select the pass with perks they want most – all with no down payment. For a limited-time, Busch Gardens Annual Passes start as low as $9.99 per month for Florida residents. In 2019, Pass Members can look forward to unique benefits, the park’s 60th anniversary celebration and exclusive ride time for the spring opening of Tigris, Florida’s tallest launch coaster. For complete event information, including dates, times and packages, visit ChristmasTown.com. Be the first to know about events, special deals and future announcements by following Busch Gardens Tampa Bay’s blog and social media channels on Facebook, Twitter and Insta gram.
AJ’s Fine Wines & Liquor
B We
rin g
Life
Experience the joy and wonder of the holiday season every day at Busch Gardens® Tampa Bay’s Christmas Town™. New this year, guests can enjoy millions of twinkling lights, Christmas shows and Sing-A-Long Train and of course visits with Santa and Rudolph®. It will take place every day of the season starting Saturday, November 17 and continuing through Monday, December 31. Christmas Town features extended hours on weekends and additional select dates with even more new experiences, including an all-new holiday show, indulgent culinary treats, visits to Rudolph’s® Winter Wonderland, nighttime experiences on Florida’s best thrill rides and so much more. Christmas Town is included with any daily admission or annual pass, and is open until 10 p.m. on select dates. There is so much to experience and see during Christmas Town. New this year at Dragon Fire Grill is the holiday spectacular ‘Christmas Is...’ featuring contemporary music that celebrates seasonal traditions. The new show joins a festive line-up of returning favorite shows including Christmas on Ice, Elmo’s Christmas Wish, the Holiday Hills Band, Carol of the Bells light show and the Christmas Town Sing-A-Long Train. The new Brunch with Santa is a Christmas-themed dining experience that’s perfect for the entire family. Adults can enjoy unlimited mimosas or ‘build your own Bloody Mary’ upgrades, and
ur Spirits In Yo
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November 2018
Page 35
Valrico Edition
Where To See The Lights, Wonderland Of Lights, Christmas Lane & More To help you enjoy some simple quality time with friends and family while getting into the holiday spirit, check out some area light displays that everyone can enjoy.
Barrington Oaks - Christmas Lights
Each year Barrington Oaks opens up in the spirit of the holiday to share in the spirit of Christmas with a neighborhood light display. Enjoy varied displays throughout the community. The gates will be open starting Friday, December 7 from 6-11 p.m. every night with extended hours on Christmas Eve and Christmas day from 6 p.m.-12:30 a.m. Guests are welcome into the neighborhood to enjoy the lights and the holiday season. Please make a right hand turn as you enter the neighborhood. It is located off Lumsden Rd. just east of John Moore Rd.
Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village At Hillsborough County Fairgrounds
North Pole Productions presents Wonderland of Lights & Santa’s Village at the Hillsborough County Fairgrounds. This holiday theme park will be open Thanksgiving night (November 22) through Saturday, December 29. Drive through a mile of dazzling lights and holiday displays, and then stop by the Christmas Village where you can visit circus attractions, a wolf exhibit, amusement rides, camel rides and even photos
with Santa. New this year, you can take a journey through the light display or just make a visit to the Village for a small admission fee. Season tickets are available so you can make multiple visits to the park. Watch the amazing and funny Giovanni Anastasini as he performs his magic right before your eyes during a holiday-themed show. Expect to find a wide variety of items including (but not limited to) Homemade Mini Donuts, Strawberry Shortcake with Mini Donuts, Sausage Sandwiches, Pizza, Homemade Chocolate Chip Cookies, Hot Chocolate, Fried Dough, Funnel Cakes, Pulled Pork & Brisket Sandwiches and much more! Vehicles cost $25. Save $5 if you purchase online before Wednesday, November 21. Season passes are available online if you purchase by Tuesday, November 20 for only $35. After that it is $40. The Fairgrounds are located at 215 Sydney Washer Rd. in Dover. For tickets and more information, visit www.thewonderlandoflights.com.
By Michelle Colesanti
Christmas Lane Returns To The Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds
Christmas Lane returns to the Strawberry Festival Fairgrounds on Friday, November 23. The monthlong winter wonderland experience will take place until December 24 inside and around the Charlie Grimes Family Agriculture Center, located at 2508 W. Oak Ave. in Plant City. Come and celebrates 35 years of extraordinary displays featuring over 1.5 million lights adorning over 200 Christmas trees from four to 40 ft. tall accompanying its larger-than-life decorations and using more than 180,000 watts of power. Santa will be there every night. There will be a concession (hamburgers, fries, popcorn and more) and a small Christmas Lane gift shop available. Living Nativities will be held Thursday, Friday and Saturdays at 7 and 8 p.m. You can enjoy other activities such as musical performances, Fritzy the One Man Circus and more. A KidZone will feature letters to Santa, face painting, ornament coloring and more. Christmas Lane is a non-profit organization. Volunteers work more than 1,800 hours to set it up.
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Hours are Thursday through Sunday from 6-10 p.m. each night. Tickets are $5 for adults. Children ages 4 to12 are $3. Children 3 and under are free. Purchase your tickets at the event. Parking is free. For more information, visit ChristmasLane.com or on Facebook at Christmas Lane.
Oakdale Light Display Among Largest In The U.S.
It has become a tradition in the Tampa Bay area for people near and far to visit the Oakdale Light Display in St. Petersburg. It was ranked in the top three nationally by NBC’s Today show, presented first in HGTV’s All Out Christmas Special and featured in People Magazine. Each year the light display is different adorning about one-half million lights. Enjoy the walk-ways, fountains, computerized light show, animated dolls and a snowman about three stories high. The most popular item is the large HOscale model railroad running 18 trains at one time. The kids love the double bubble machines and games. Three electric meters are needed to handle the power. Although the electric bill can run as high as $4,000, the event is free and fun for everyone. Visit the display from Friday, November 23 through Thursday, January 3, 2019 from 6-10 p.m. at 2719 Oakdale St. St. in St. Petersburg. Visit ChristmasDisplay.org.
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Page 36
Volume 15, Issue 11
Valrico Edition
Cirque du Soleil Returns To Amalie Arena With New Show CRYSTAL
Staff Report
Photo credit : Matt Beard / Costumes: Marie Chantale Vaillancourt / 2018 Cirque du Soleil. We gratefully acknowledge our Official Partner Sirius.
Cirque du Soleil returns to the Tampa area with Cirque du Soleil’s CRYSTAL. This unique arena production showcases synchronized and freestyle ice skating alongside circus disciplines such as swinging trapeze, hand balancing on chairs and hand to hand. It is directed by Shana Carroll and Sebastien Soldevila. Watch world-class ice skaters and acrobats explore their new frozen playground with fluidity with never-beforeseen acrobatics. Cirque du Soleil’s CRYSTAL fuses circus arts and the world of ice skating in a stunning new production that will take the audience on a journey into a surreal world where figure skating blends with acrobatics and aerial feats. CRYSTAL will perform at the Amalie Arena from Wednesday, December 19
through 23 for seven shows: Wednesday through Friday at 7:30 p.m., Saturday at 4 and 7:30 p.m. and Sunday at 1:30 and 5 p.m. Crystal, the misfit heroine, takes you on an exhilarating tale of self-discovery as she dives into a world of her own imagination. Feel the adrenaline as she soars through this surreal world to become what she was always destined to be: confident, liberated, and empowered. CRYSTAL invites you to suspend reality and glide into a world that springs to colorful life with astounding visual projections and a soundtrack that seamlessly blends popular music with the signature sound of Cirque du Soleil. CRYSTAL is suitable for all ages and tickets are available online. You can join the Cirque Club. Membership is free and benefits include access to advance tickets, special offers and exclusive behind-the-scenes information. To join, visit www.cirqueclub.com. Amalie Arena is located at 401 Channelside Dr. in Tampa. Follow #CRYSTAL and #cirquedusoleil on social media on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Youtube.
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November 2018
Valrico Edition
Page 37
Get Into The Spirit With Festive Holiday Events In November And December
By Kathy L. Collins
St. The 24-foot tree is lit with The holidays are just lights purchased by area resiaround the corner, and so dents, organizations and busiare the many area nesses in honor of someone Christmas tree lighting cerethey lost. Proceeds benefit monies, movies, parades South Florida Baptist Hospital. and festival. Be sure to You can get photos with Santa check out all that the area and Mrs. Claus at 5:30 p.m. has to offer and have fun The tree lighting ceremony will getting into the holiday spirit. at 6:30 p.m. begin The Annual Enchanted Come back to Plant City Tree Lighting Ceremony in on Friday, December 7 for the Hyde Park will kick off the Annual Christmas Parade from holiday season on Saturday, to 9 p.m. The parade begins 7 November 17 from 5 to 9 at the intersection of Collins p.m. This is a free, family St. and Alsobrook St. in downfriendly event which will featown Plant City. The parade ture music, vendors, food run down Collins St., turn will trucks and lots of holiday right on Reynolds Ave. and cheer. Hyde Park Village is Enjoy some magical holiday fun at many Christmas Tree Lighting events, including the Annual Winthrop end just past the Plant City located at 1602 W. Snow Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony which features holiday themed entertainment by local dancers such as the Brandon Ballet. Courthouse. You can bring Ave. in Tampa. chairs and comfortably watch The City of Tampa will hold its the majesty of this annual tradition in Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony on Plant City. Friday, November 30 at 6 p.m. in On Friday, December 7, the comCurtis Hixon Waterfront Park in of Winthrop in Riverview will munity downtown Tampa. The event is free present its Annual Christmas Tree and includes a countdown to light the Lighting in Winthrop Town Centre. This tree with Mayor Bob Buckhorn. A annual event is fun and free for the movie will be shown after the lighting community. John Sullivan, whole in the park. founder and developer of Winthrop The Annual Downtown Tampa said, “The Winthrop Christmas Tree Christmas Parade will be held the Lighting is a time-honored ceremony next day, Saturday, December 1 that we look forward to sharing with beginning at 11 a.m. The parade will located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in the community.� You can enjoy perwind throughout downtown, but the Brandon. The Center Place will celebrate its formances, the tree lighting and a free best place to view the parade is On Thursday, December 6, come 34th Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. movie on the lawn. The event begins along Madison St. The parade will be Santa and Mrs. Claus will be on hand down to historic downtown Plant City at approximately 6 p.m. Winthrop followed by the Annual SantaFest in for the Annual Lights of Love. This to help and to take photos. You can Town Centre is located at the intersecCurtis Hixon Waterfront Park from 12 also enjoy entertainment by area fantastic annual event includes a tion of Bloomingdale Ave. and to 4 p.m. Christmas tree lighting ceremony in high school bands, orchestras, choirs Providence Rd. in Riverview. On Wednesday, December 5, McCall Park located at 100 N. Collins and dance groups. Center Place is
Page 38
Volume 15, Issue 11
Valrico Edition
The GFWC Brandon Service League Presents Its Annual Holiday Home Tour
Walk Thru Bethlehem Continues Free Holiday Tradition At Kings Ave. Baptist
For 26 years, the 201 E. Brandon Blvd. GFWC Brandon Service in Brandon. You can League has been hosting also purchase them a Holiday Home Tour. online at www.gfwThis year’s tour will be cbrandonserviceheld on Saturday, league.org. There is a December 8 from 10 a.m. $1 convenience fee to 2 p.m. This is a great per ticket. way to support a local All proceeds organization that serves raised during the the Greater Brandon area Holiday Home Tour and have fun seeing are given back to the beautifully decorated community. The homes. GFWC Brandon Bradlee Swanson Service League prowith the GFWC Brandon vides much needed Service League said, Come out and tour three beautifully funding to area nondecorated homes, each with a “This year’s tour features profits and Brandon unique theme, at the 26th Annual three beautifully decorated GFWC Brandon Service League’s area high school art homes each with their own Holiday Home Tour. The tour takes programs. place on Saturday, December 8 unique style. Various Swanson said, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Christmas collections and “This is our 26th year themed trees are featured throughout the hosting the Holiday Home Tour.” tour.” Swanson added, “In addition to Swanson added, “GFWC Brandon these lovely homes, our gourmet booth is Service League has proudly served the a must-see with a wide selection of community for almost 60 years. Through homemade treats and sweets available our fundraising efforts, we are able to for purchase.” make community donations, hold our This year’s homes are located Annual Very Special Arts Festival and throughout the area. They include the sponsor the High School Art Show.” Jordan home located at 17896 Boyette The GFWC Brandon Service Rd. in Lithia; the Heatherington home League is accepting new members. The located at 709 Grand Canyon Dr. in GFWC Brandon Service League meets Valrico; and the Wilkinson home located on the second Thursday of the month at 710 Kingswood Loop in Brandon. from September through May (not Tickets to the Holiday Home Tour are including December) at the New Hope just $20 each (cash or check). You can United Methodist Church located at 120 purchase them at the Green Boutique N. Knights Ave. in Brandon. located at 1032 Bloomingdale Ave. in For more information, please visit Valrico and at Boulevard Salon located at www.gfwcbrandonserviceleague.org.
Take a an event that is meant step over thouto benefit not only the sands of years people, but the individinto the past uals as well. and experience “We want everythe 32nd annuone to receive someal Walk Thru thing out of this,” said Bethlehem, Abbey Turner, the hosted at Kings Director of Marketing Ave. Baptist for Walk Thru Church in Bethlehem. “This is Brandon, an the truth of Christmas, authentic reen- Mary and Joseph brought Jesus Christ into the and the actors and world in the modest setting of Bethlehem. actment that volunteers are pasbrings the biblical city and story of Jesus sionate about sharing that.” Christ’s birth to life from the pages of the It is all thanks to the hundreds of volHoly Scripture. unteers who help make the event hapGuests will be taken through a 20-30 pen. Through the effort of youth groups, minute guided tour of Bethlehem, where Boy Scouts, retirees and church mempeople were taxed as subjects of Caesar bers, Walk Thru Bethlehem is born. The Augustus. Attendees can meet all kinds event starts production in September with of citizens who existed back then, learn of three-hour workdays, and by December their various trades and lives, and go construction is complete and focus goes through a myriad of booths to learn all into filling the booths. about the ancient city, ending the journey This year, there is a change in one of with the holy spectacle of Jesus' birth in a the booths. Someone acting as Jesus will humble manger. be reading scripture from the Bible. Walk Thru Bethlehem began as a Walk Thru Bethlehem is a free event very small production with the idea of available to all. Its schedule is as follows: bringing Bethlehem from the Bible as a Thursday, December 6, 6:30-9:30 p.m.; tangible encounter for the Christian comFriday, December 7, 6:30-10 p.m.; munity to enjoy. It serves to unify the Saturday, December 8, 4-10 p.m.; and community and to offer free entertainment Sunday, December 9, 4-9 p.m. to guests. Thirty-two years later, Walk Kings Ave. Baptist Church is located Thru Bethlehem has become one of the at 2602 South Kings Avenue, Brandon. largest events in the Tampa Bay area. For more information, email wtbkingsavThe greatest strength of Walk Thru enue@gmail.com, visit www.kingsavBethlehem is how it can save people enue.org/WTB and Like it on Facebook at through its physical story and provide www.facebook.com/walkthrubethlehemktogetherness for the community. This is ingsavenue.
By Kathy L. Collins
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November 2018
Valrico Edition
Page 39
Set Sail For Family Fun With The 35th Annual Alafia Lighted Boat Parade
By Taylor Wells
Everyone is invited to The boat parade attend the 35th annual does more than provide Alafia Lighted Boat fun, however. “We genParade on Saturday, erate from the boat December 1. Hosted by parade much needed the Rotary Club of monies for our local high FishHawk-Riverview school scholarship prosince 2008, the event is gram, approx. $3500, to set to delight all with its Riverview, Spoto, and vibrantly decorated boats. Newsome, as well as for Join in on all the fun from the Friends of the 5 to 8 p.m. at the County Parks charity,” Riverview Civic Center, said Dr. Kimberly Tyson, 11020 Park Dr. in who has been involved Riverview. The boat with the parade since parade will begin at 6 Rotary took over. It has p.m. also locally supported All boats may join many other charities, the festivity, but only presuch as the Sylvia registered boats have a Thomas Center, A Kid’s chance to win prizes. Place, and ECHO of Parade attendees must Brandon. set up their boats at Additional free parkWilliams Park Boat ing, sponsored by Ramp and avoid the Hawthorne Village, will Riverview Civic Center be available at the First ramp after 3 p.m. The Baptist Church of awards presentation for Riverview, and shuttles the best decorated boats will run throughout the will be held at River’s event from the church to Edge Bar and Grill. the Civic Center. However, more than Those interested in eyes will be set with wonentering the Alafia der at the parade. People Lighted Boat Parade The Alafia Lighted Boat Parade has been delighting people with Christmas-themed boats for 35 years, and the tradition will continue on Saturday, December 1.from 5-8 p.m. at the Riverview Civic Center, 11020 Park Dr. can enjoy the Chili Cookshould contact Mike Off as either cooks or Broussard at Polio and other local service projects. A purchase tickets for refreshments as well. tasters voting for the best chili. Tasters Michael.broussard@flyinglocksmiths. For free family holiday movie presented by Children may visit Santa Claus for a must purchase $5 tickets to take part, more information, email Jamie Simons at Friends of the County Parks will be availfree photo opportunity. A gingerbread and contestants should enter their chili by jsimons@pilka.com or visit www.alafiable after the second pass of the boats at house contest and a silent auction will 4:30 p.m. Only the first 12 entries will aboatparade.com. the Riverview Civic Center. support Rotary’s fight against ending qualify, so enter quickly. Paradegoers can
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Valrico Edition
Volume 15, Issue 11