November 2021
Holiday Gift Guide
Page 1
2021 HOLIDAY FAVORITE THINGS SWEEPSTAKES
Staff Report
For seven years, Osprey Observer Newspapers has been partnering with local retailers to publish the Shop Local Holiday Favorite Things Sweepstakes and Gift Guide, and this year promises to be one of the best yet, with prizes totaling over $3,000! For the 2021 Sweepstakes, we’ve partnered with our friends at Express Oil & Tire Engineers in Riverview to offer an amazing early bird prize: a brand-new set of four tires plus three oil changes, with a total prize value of over $1,000! Plus, our friends at McAuley Fine Jewelry are offering an exquisite 14K, two-tone, bezel-set, 1.28 ct. blue topaz ring valued at more than $600. In addition, we have (four) tickets to Busch Gardens, a $250 cruise voucher from Dream Vacations, a foursome of golf at River Hills Country Club worth $160, a
$25
Gift Card
$100-value sunset cruise with Latitudes Tours in Ruskin—and So. Much. More. And all from our amazing local businesses. Our campaign, the Osprey Observer, A Few of Our Favorite Things, is so important this year when families are continuing to struggle during a global pandemic and need some joy. We love partnering with
our local businesses to help bring some positivity in whatever small way we can. “The annual sweepstakes is so successful and just seems to get better each year. We have so many amazing prizes this year and are more excited than ever to share these finds with our readers,” said Assignment Editor Kate Quesada. So, from now until mid-December, we
will be collecting Our Favorite Things all throughout the community, and we will put them together in one giant gift basket that will be given out in our annual sweepstakes for our readers. To enter, email ‘Sweepstakes’ to contest@ospreyobserver. com or fill out the entry form in this section and send in by mail, fax or email. Last year, more than 1,500 local residents entered the campaign and ONE lucky winner walked away with a prize package worth more than $2,800. Prizes will be drawn just in time for Christmas. We will have two early bird prizes and the final grand prize, and we can’t wait to see who our lucky winners are. Good luck and thank you for shopping local and reading your Osprey Observer Community Newspaper! Your Managing Editor Marie Gilmore
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Holiday Gift Guide
Volume 20, Issue 11
Holiday Gift Guide
November 2021
GIVE THE GIFT OF MEMBERSHIP WITH RIVER HILLS COUNTRY CLUB
By Kate Quesada
Are you looking Swezey. for a gift for someClub amenities one who has everyinclude an 18-hole thing? Then what championship golf about the gift of course designed by membership? RivJoe Lee, eight lighter Hills, a full-sered Har-Tru courts, a vice country club junior Olympic pool, located in Valrico, a fitness center with offers a variety of 24-hour access and membership levels social and dining opand options with portunities. something for every River Hills, a full-service country club located in Programs include member of the fam- Valrico, offers a variety of membership levels and a swim team, tennis options with something for every member of the leagues, year-round ily. family. According to Gentournament schederal Manager Bob ule, a golf practice Swezey, the club has complex, ladies’ nights, dedicated professional junior camps and clinics, managers in every deGals Golf, Men’s Weekly partment. Rumble, Ladies Nights, “The professional Kids’ Craft days, holiday team has over a cenevents and very large tury of experience in community events. club operations that Memberships levels have been recognized range to fit family needs locally, regionally and and budgets, and memnationally for excellence in areas of ser- bers do not have to live within the comvice, education and operational excellence munity to join. by the PGA of America, USTA, National “River Hills Country Club sets itself Golf Foundation and National Golf Course apart from other private clubs as it is truOwners Association,” said Swezey. ly a family-oriented culture that is built by Established in 1989 and renovated reg- the membership themselves and nurtured ularly, with a full clubhouse renovation by a team that cares personally to serve in 2019, River Hills Country Club is now professionally,” said Swezey. “The vision owned by the River Hills Master Associa- of the entire staff on a daily basis is to tion, the community HOA. be inviting, distinctive and dynamic for a “River Hills Country is truly the only wide spectrum of demographics.” family-centric private facility in the area To learn more, visit www.riverhillscounthat provides a safe haven from the hec- tryclub.com or find it on Facebook. For tic world outside the 24-hour guarded membership details, contact is Margie facility for all members of a family,” said Martin at 653-1554, ext. 232.
$250 Norwegian cruise voucher with gift basket Value: $350
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NOTHING BUNDT CAKES OFFERS PERFECT HOLIDAY TREATS FOR EVERY SEASON By Kate Quesada The holidays like pumpkin spice in are a great time November and pepto treat yourpermint chocolate self and your chip in December. friends, and Cakes and toppers Nothing Bundt are available for holCakes, located in iday parties in adWinthrop Town dition to birthdays, Centre, has the graduations and perfect way weddings. to satisfy your Nothing Bundt sweet tooth. Cakes offers onWith 10 deli- Nothing Bundt Cakes offers holiday treats for every line ordering and cious flavors and third-party delivery, occasion. options rangmaking it easy for ing from single residents to enjoy serving Bundtinis while keeping safe to 10-inch cakes, during the pandemic. Nothing Bundt As Nothing Bundt Cakes has someCakes is very popular thing for everyfor gifts and holiday one, even those gatherings, Shuffield whose diet is recommends resirestricted to gludents to order online ten-free. in advance. Owner Rob The website also Shuffield, a Branoffers information on don High School graduate, grew up in the fundraising with Nothing Bundt Cakes and area and was thrilled to open the Winthrop the opportunity to sign up for the Nothing location three years ago. Bundt Cakes eClub, which offers a free “I love the Brandon community and am birthday treat. proud to offer the quality and flavors of “Stop by and try our products,” said Nothing Bundt Cakes through our store Shuffield. “Our general manager, Noelle, here,” said Shuffield. “Winthrop has been and the team would love to meet you.” such a great location for us, and we are so Nothing Bundt Cakes is located at 11238 thankful to John Sullivan for his vision for Sullivan St. in Riverview and can be reached such a great community center.” at 409-2394. To learn more or order onAccording to Shuffield, the most popular line, visit www.nothingbundtcakes.com. flavors at the location are chocolate choc- Its hours of operation are Monday-Friday, olate chip and red velvet, but he encour- 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Saturday, 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; and ages shoppers to look for seasonal choices Sunday, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
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Holiday Gift Guide
Volume 20, Issue 11
A ONE-STOP SHOP FOR THE MUSIC LOVER AT MUSIC SHOWCASE Staff Report
DONOVAN’S MEATERY DELIVERS DELICIOUS DATE NIGHTS
Are you looking try out for free for a unique gift different infor a music lover struments and or a fun way to make a craft get into the holto take home. iday spirit? Then There are look no further also Parent’s than Brandon’s Night Out own Music Showevents. The case. next one is on Music ShowSaturday, Decase, a famicember 4 from ly-owned busi- Music Showcase is a one stop shop for music lovers this holi- 10 a.m.-6 p.m. ness open since called Santa’s day season 1995, has all Workshop. kinds of name-brand inChildren ages 5-12 will struments for purchase, inhave dinner, snacks, play cluding brass instruments, games, do crafts, watch drums, guitars, keyboards, a movie and more. orchestral instruments and If you are looking for woodwind instruments, plus a fun way to spend time various accessories. Music together as a family, Showcase offers a monthwhy not take in a perforto-month instrument rent-to-own pro- mance this holiday season? Shows include gram. You can even rent online and have Annie Jr. and All Together Now!. Beauty the instrument delivered to the school. Mu- and the Beast is Friday-Sunday, December sic Showcase has an in-house repair shop 10-12 and 17-19. You can also enjoy breakand sells used gear on consignment. fast with Belle and friends on Saturday, It is also a place of learning for all ages December 11 and Saturday, December 18. from 4 to senior and experience levels from Visitors will meet and greet the characbeginner to advanced. Lessons are provid- ters, have a photo op and get autographs, ed for singing as well as most instruments breakfast and a Beauty and the Beast stoMonday through Saturday. Students have rybook as keepsake. The rock band will opportunities to perform in recitals as well have its concert on Friday, December 3. as at community events. Also, students in middle and high school In addition to lessons, students can can still join the cast of Godspell. participate in many programs run by the Music Showcase is located at 402 OakFlorida Academy of the Performing Arts field Dr. in Brandon. To learn more about (FAOPA), located at Music Showcase. The Music Showcase and its gear, lessons and academy offers musical theater, acting more, visit www.musicshowcaseonline. classes, rock band and many more. One com. To learn more about FAOPA’s proprogram provided regularly is called Mu- grams, events, tickets and prices, visit fasic Makers, where children can come and opa.org.
Think you need to is live fire cooking drive to Tampa or St. within view of the Petersburg for upguests. scale dining? Think “There are only a again. Donovan’s Mehandful of restauatery, located converants in Tampa Bay niently in Winthrop that have open wood Town Centre in Rivfires cooking almost erview, is the perfect everything on the location for a funmenu,” she said. filled, food lover’s Its hip, stylish atnight on the town. mosphere is perfect The menu boasts to enjoy the comDonovan’s Meatery, located conveniently in elegant starters and Winthrop Town Centre in Riverview, is the perfect pany of friends and exceptional entrees location for a fun-filled, food lover’s night on the family. Plus, the vibe rivaling any steakcomplements the town. house. Start delicious food out with an aryou’ll be sure tisanal cheese to enjoy. Pull up board, duck a chair at the confit flatbread bar, dine inside or something or enjoy the refrom their raw bar. Pair it with a delicious freshing breeze on the patio. wine from its wine list, complete with reThe holidays are approaching quickly, serve wines for the most discerning con- and gift cards to Donovan’s make excellent noisseur, or an original cocktail. Then, stocking stuffers and presents for family Donovan’s takes your steak seriously. It and friends. Plus, it is conveniently availoffers a wide selection of certified angus able online. beef and American wagyu. Whether you’re To check out its entire menu, purchase craving a tomahawk ribeye, New York strip gift cards, make a reservation or order onor porterhouse, its cuts are aged to perfec- line, visit donovansmeatery.com. Check it tion and cooked over an open fire. Grab a out on Facebook, where the pictures of its salt-crusted, jumbo baked potato and car- food will solidify the location of your next amelized sweet corn, and your taste buds meal, at www.facebook.com/donovansmewill thank you. Plus, it has an impressive atery. You can also call the restaurant diselection of alternatives, such as the very rectly at 295-8445. popular wild game specials, brown sugar Donovan’s Meatery is located at 11206 and bourbon salmon and even boneless Sullivan St. in Riverview. It is open daily fried chicken. for lunch from 11 a.m.-3 p.m., with SunAccording to Suzanne Perry, owner of day-Thursday dinner from 5-9 p.m., and FriDatz Restaurant Group, Donovan’s parent day-Saturday dinner from 5-10 p.m. Happy company, the primary focus for Donovan’s hour runs daily from 3-5 p.m.
By Amy Schechter
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November 2021
Holiday Gift Guide
DATZ WINTHROP OFFERS COMFORT FOOD WITH A TWIST By Amy Schechter over a bed of potatoes, peas and pearl onions, never disappoints. There’s truly something for everyone, whether you are a vegetarian, prefer chicken or feel like fresh fish. Then, you’ll want to devour a dessert like the horse soldier bourbon chocolate cake. Plus, Datz has mastered every meal. Sundays are all about brunch, and no brunch is complete without a morning margarita or mimosa and a dive into its famous monkey bread, a pull-apart cluster Datz, located in Winthrop Town Centre, offers over the top of gooey cinnamon sugar bread drizzled in icing and caramel. Save American comfort food with a twist. room for a chicken George Bernard Shaw and waffle benedict, said, “There is no love shrimp and grits sincerer than the love of or the Cheesy Todd food.” Roger and Suzanne Breakfast, which is Perry can attest. Since a mac and cheese 2009, when they opened bun, two eggs and Dr. Datz, they have helped BBQ’s smoked brisreimagine Tampa’s food ket. Datz partnered scene, and the same comwith Ray Lampe to fort food-filled with fun, create Dr. BBQ in flair and flavor patrons St. Petersburg, and all its food-forward, cannot get enough of makes its home right smoke-basted meats come straight from here in Riverview in Winthrop Town Cenits smokehouse to your table. tre. With holidays approaching, a gift card Recently named Creative Loafing’s Best to Datz shows that you know about food of Brandon/Riverview, a reimagined Amerand care about your friends and family. It ican comfort food full of modern, decadent is conveniently available online. twists inspires Datz’s dishes and pairs with To check out its menu, make a reservathe perfect craft beer, bourbon, or cocktion, purchase a gift card or order ahead, tail. You’ll want to start with some sharevisit datztampa.com or give it a call at able Nom Noms or tobacco onion stack, 535-7952. Datz Riverview is located at although you may not want to share. And 6264 Winthrop Town Centre Ave. in Rivit doesn’t serve mom’s meatloaf; as seen on erview. It is open Monday-Friday, 11 a.m.the Travel Channel, Barry C’s Stuff Meat9 p.m., and Saturday-Sunday, 8:30 a.m.-9 loaf, filled with jalapeno mac and cheese p.m., with an all-day brunch on Sunday.
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LET THE HOLIDAYS SPARKLE WITH A TIMELESS GIFT FROM THE TEAM AT MCAULEY FINE JEWELRY
By Michelle Caceres
Looking to give an with a dazzling selecenduring holiday gift tion of exquisite jewthat holds special elry creations, like meaning? Look no diamond earrings further than a jewel(natural and lab-crery piece from McAuated) and trendy ley Fine Jewelry. Belle Etoile pieces “This is the time that incorporate of year everyone besterling silver and gins to think about enamel into works of what gifts to give wearable art. their loved ones Let the holidays sparkle with a custom piece from “We love to help to show them how you pick out the perMcAuley Fine Jewelry. much they care,” fect gifts for everysaid Sales Specialist Dyan Taylor-Harris. one on your list,” said Taylor-Harris. “We Located in Brandon at 664 Oakfield Dr. want each customer to be a customer for in the Atlantic Village Shopping Center at a lifetime.” the corner of Kings Ave. and Oakfield Dr., McAuley Fine Jewelry is ready to bring McAuley Fine Jewelry is a local jewelry family and friends together through gifts store that specializes in custom design and of meaning and connection. jewelry repair. This holiday season, the company is en“What really sets us apart from other couraging customers to shop early to avoid jewelers is our ability to help customers last-minute crowds. Sales are held from design their own custom pieces,” she said. Tuesday, November 23 through Friday, De“We help customers bring their ideas for cember 24, all regular-priced jewelry and new items to life or help them repurpose watches will be 25 percent off (excluding their own stones.” the ‘Previously Loved’ and ‘50 percent off’ Looking for a holiday gift that will sur- cases). prise and delight a special someone? If McAuley Fine Jewelry is open from they have a piece of jewelry they love but Tuesday-Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., and on never wear because it’s broken or has been Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The store will be damaged, jewelry repair makes a surpris- closed on Thanksgiving Day. Its Christmas ingly delightful holiday gift. McAuley Fine week hours will be Sunday, December 19 Jeweler’s three on-site jewelers, each with from 12 Noon-4 p.m.; Monday, December more than 40 years of experience, can re- 20 from 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; and Friday, Decempair those special pieces, from sizing rings, ber 24 from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. The store will repairing breaks in jewelry, setting stones be closed on Christmas Day. and watch repair, including replacing crysFor more information about McAuley tals and installing new movements. Fine Jewelry, visit www.mcauleyfinejewelIn addition to custom pieces, jewelry re- ry.com, call 689-8124 or visit its Facebook modeling and repair, the store is also filled page @mcauleyfinejewelry.
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Page 6
Holiday Gift Guide
Volume 20, Issue 11
HOW TO MAKE THE HOLIDAYS LESS FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS & SANTA’S VILLAGE STRESSFUL FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY OPENS AT COUNTY FAIRGROUNDS Family Features
Staff Report
Between changes greeting that feels in routine and visitmost comfortable ing family (or having in the moment. To them visit you), the lessen the presholidays can be emosure, make sure tionally overwhelmfamily members ing for children and and friends underadults alike, even in stand what you ‘normal times.’ Add and your children in inclement weathare comfortable er, the desire for a with. For example, perfect holiday and “It looks like Zazil Photo courtesy of Getty Images doesn’t want a hug parents still working, and you have a perfect cocktail for emotion- right now, Auntie Mei. Perhaps a high five al meltdowns. would be better.” “The key to enjoying whatever this holiday Give your children (and yourself) grace. season brings is to acknowledge the range Talk with your children about the range of of emotions the entire family may be feeling emotions you feel throughout the day. This and hold space for those feelings,” said Ariel can help them learn emotional literacy and Acosta from KinderCare’s Inclusion Services flexible thinking. It also normalizes feelings. team. “By working on a few key things now When a big feeling does happen, remember before the heightened expectations and to connect before you correct by labeling busyness set in, families can build a toolbox and validating your child’s emotions: “I can of skills that will help make the season less see that you’re really sad we have to leave stressful for everyone.” the party. Leaving makes me feel sad too. Consider these tips to help your family What would help you feel better?” prepare for a less stressful holiday season. If your child is engaged in unsafe behavFind ways to destress as a family. Throw iors, like hitting, wait until after everyone on some music and have a dance party. is calm before talking about what could be Incorporate some simple yoga moves or done differently next time. stretches into your day to create mindful “How you handle your mistakes can be a moments. Help your children create a list of powerful example for your children,” Acoscalm-down techniques to choose from when ta said. “Once you’re calm, explain what they start to become overwhelmed or as a happened to your children. Start by naming way to reset after an outburst, such as tak- your emotion, apologize if you didn’t handle ing a deep breath. your feelings well and let your children know Set expectations for greetings. Talk with what you plan to do differently next time. ‘I your children about your family’s expecta- was really mad you two were arguing and I tions around greetings and help them think yelled. I shouldn’t have done that. Next time, of and practice different ways to say hello, I’m going to try to remember to take some such as a hug, handshake, high five, wave or deep breaths to help me speak more kindly.’” verbal greeting. Giving your children options For more tips for social and emotional deahead of time allows them to choose the velopment, visit kindercare.com.
The Hillsborough munity holiday disCounty Fairgrounds play events, as the announces its alllighting design firm new holiday light to further elevate spectacular, openthe event. Led by Pat ing on ThanksgivBrandano, the team ing Day, Thursday, brings 45 years of November 25, and design experience to running through the event. Sunday, December “People who at26. Tampa Bay’s Festend this year will tival of Lights and feel as if they’ve been Santa’s Village will dipped in holiday envelop guests in an Tampa Bay’s Festival of Lights and Santa’s Vil- magic while createnchanting winter lage open this month at the Hillsborough County ing family memories. Fairgrounds. wonderland from With enchantment its entrance marked by a custom, signa- in mind, we have added brighter lights, ture light display on SR 60 to their exit jaw-dropping displays, new activities through twinkling trees as they leave the and music that combine to create an unfairgrounds. One million lights will blanket forgettable immersive experience,” said the entire site. Holcomb. “We are focused on the guest This year’s event boasts a nearly 2-mile journey from the time they enter the road drive-through of continuous light features leading to the gate to the moment they followed by a festive walking visit to San- leave Santa’s Village.” ta’s Village. Designed to appeal to all ages The immersion begins upon entrance, as and backgrounds, the elaborate light dis- vehicles travel through 80 themed display plays themed to Florida and traditional areas with more than 250 larger-thanwinter holidays are complemented by indi- life pieces. Convenient post-drive-through vidual presentations representing Christ- parking allows guests to easily walk to mas, Hanukkah and Kwanzaa. Santa’s Santa’s Village, which will be fully decked Village is filled with activities and treats out in holiday decor and music, including that tempt the young and young-at-heart, more than 3,000 feet of lights on buildsuch as Santa’s barnyard, holiday movies, ings and 500 animated dripping lights on visits with Santa and plenty of social me- trees. dia-worthy photo opportunities. Planned displays will include Pirates of For the first time, the Hillsborough Coun- Tampa and Santa Driving an Airboat, and ty Fairgrounds Board of Directors named activities will range from Santa’s BarnFair Manager Suzanne Holcomb the event yard to holiday movies and shorts. producer, ensuring that the fairgrounds Tickets for this year’s event are on sale are wholly transformed into a spectacle now and cost $25/car. For more informaof holiday cheer. Holcomb hired Brandano tion and tickets, please visit www.hillsborDisplays Inc., nationally known for com- oughcountyfair.com.
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November 2021
Holiday Gift Guide
BUSCH GARDENS CELEBRATES THE HOLIDAYS WITH CHRISTMAS TOWN Staff Report One of Tampa’s to Bethlehem, biggest and brightis celebrated in est holiday event the round at the opens earlier this Stanleyville Theyear with millions ater, and guests of twinkling holiday have the chance lights throughout to journey to Busch Garden’s 335 Rudolph’s Winacres, spectacuter Wonderland lar fireworks and to find the most a brand-new expefamous reindeer rience with Sanof all. Busch Gardens’ Christmas Town events start this ta that will create As guests dash month and offers something for everyone. merry memories for through the night guests of all ages. Included in park ad- between iconic rollercoasters, they can mission, the award-winning holiday event explore the Christmas Town Village, a defeatures all-new activities for the whole licious destination filled with drinks and family. dishes from an indulgent holiday menu. Three new events this year add to the These unique, limited-time options include traditional experience. The new Holiday in new specialty cocktails like the Mistletoe the Sky Fireworks Show will let guests en- Margarita and the Apple Brandy Hot Todjoy classic holiday tunes and watch festive dy. Complete the night with a signature bursts of Christmas colors as they cover Christmas Town Hot Chocolate featuring the sky in a dazzling fireworks display. festive flavors like peppermint or gingerHoliday in the Sky is offered on the Festi- bread. Feel the spirit of the season in each val Field every Saturday and select event bite with the new maple bourbon pecan nights beginning on November 13. There pie or feast on holiday favorites like the will also be a new Storytime with Mrs. smoked brisket totchos. Guests can purClaus and the chance for guests to visit chase a Christmas Town Sampler Lanyard, Santa in his workshop with Santa’s North starting at only $44.99 for an eight-punch Pole Experience. lanyard. Other fan-favorite holiday entertainTo be the first to know about event dement returning to this year’s Florida-style tails and special offers, visit www.christwinter wonderland includes Christmas on mastown.com and follow Busch Gardens Ice, Busch Gardens’ longest running holi- Tampa Bay on Facebook, Twitter and Insday show, in the Moroccan Palace Theater, tagram. Guests are encouraged to check and Elmo’s Christmas Wish, where guests the park’s website before visiting to learn can join Cookie Monster, Rosita, Grover which event components are available and Zoe as they help Elmo find his Christ- each date. Christmas Town runs daily with mas wish. Also, the Three Kings Jour- park-wide festive fun from Friday, Novemney, a musical tale of the famed journey ber 12 through Sunday, January 2.
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Page 7
IMPACT HOSTS HOLIDAY PURSE BINGO TO SUPPORT PROGRAM By Kate Quesada Are you to continue looking for a their efforts fun and deliin educating, cious way to equipping get into the and empowholiday spirit ering teens while helpto avoid highing a local risk behavcharity raise ior by makimportant ing healthy funds? Then choices,” said mark your Angie Kagey, calendars IMPACT execfor Thursday, utive director. December 2, The event’s because the title sponsor IMPACT pro- The IMPACT program is hosting a holiday designer purse bingo is The George on Thursday, December 2 at The Regent in Riverview. gram is hostShea Team ing a holiday with Signadesigner purse bingo. ture Realty. AdditionThe event, which al sponsorship opporwill take place at The tunities are available. Regent in Riverview, “This event is spewill offer 10 rounds of cial because it is a bingo with a designer fun-filled night for purse as the prize for the community to each round. come together to Tickets to the event support a wonderful cost $40 a person and include one set of cause,” said Kagey, who added that it is 10 bingo cards and a box of charcuterie a good way to get into the holiday spirit from local favorite Davenport’s Daily De- before the busyness of the season kicks lights. Guests will have the opportunity in. to purchase additional bingo cards, raffle The Regent is located at 6347 Watson tickets and participate in a silent auction. Rd. in Riverview, near Winthrop. Doors The event is the annual fundraiser for the event will open at 6 p.m. with hosted by IMPACT program, a Bran- bingo starting at 6:30 p.m. For more indon-based charity which educates teen- formation, contact Kagey at akagey@ agers on the benefits of healthy choices whatisimpact.com or visit www.whatiwhile avoiding high-risk behaviors. simpact.com. The deadline to purchase “This is a great opportunity for com- tickets is Wednesday, November 24, and munity awareness and to provide nec- tickets can be purchased at www.imessary funds for the IMPACT program pactdesignerpursebingo.eventbrite.com.
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Holiday Gift Guide
Volume 20, Issue 11
LOCAL FUN HOLIDAY EVENTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY Compiled by Jenny Bennett and Kate Quesada
Brandon Lions Club 2021 Luminaria Project Each year, the Brandon Lions Club conducts its luminaria fundraising project providing the kits to neighborhoods and individuals throughout the Greater Brandon area. The Luminaria Kits are constructed with white paper bags weighed down with sand and illuminated from within by a candle. They are traditionally displayed on Christmas Eve. Each kit contains 15 long-burning votive candles, 15 candle holders, 15 white bags and a plastic bag of sand (to use in the base of each bag). Kits are still just $7. Orders over 15 kits can be delivered to your neighborhood. You may contact Joe Kuebler at 263-2522 to place your order or email brandonlionsclub@gmail.com. All orders are COD and can be picked up at our clubhouse located at 610 Limona Rd. in Brandon or delivered (orders of 15 kits or more) on Saturday, December 18. Proceeds benefit Brandon Lions Charities, a not-for-profit 501(c)(3) organization supporting its eyesight and hearing programs, Southeastern Guide Dogs, Greater Tampa Lions Sight Fund, ECHO, Family Promise, The Outreach Clinic, Brandon High School Don Bishop Track Meet, and other local area needs since 1954.
Victorian Christmas Stroll At The Henry B. Plant Museum Experience the extravagance and grandeur of a Victorian Christmas at the former 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel during the Henry B. Plant Museum’s Victorian Christmas Stroll. Allowing visitors a glimpse of Christmas past, the event runs daily from Saturday, November 20 through Sunday, January 2 (Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day). With a different theme in every exhibit room, there is sure to be something for everyone. Look closely in exhibit cases and you will find snow babies and tiny antique trees. Gaze in wonder at a 14’ tree bedecked in antique ornaments. Other decorations include a replica Plant System train, vintage fashions, antique toys, orchids, fruit, shells and fanciful ornaments. During the Victo-
rian Christmas Stroll, visitors will explore the museum transformed by Christmas trees ranging in height from a few inches to more than 14 feet, 40,000 lights and hundreds of feet of garland. Decorations include vintage fashions, antique toys, locally sourced items and fanciful ornaments. The Victorian Christmas Stroll celebrates the warmth and spirit of an old-fashioned holiday. Guests can enjoy live music on select dates. The Museum Store is a treasure trove of unique gifts, including elegant jewelry, artwork and beautiful holiday accessories. Enjoy shopping in a unique Victorian atmosphere; the Museum Store is open daily. The museum is located at 401 W. Kennedy Blvd. in Tampa. Admissions: adults - $16, seniors - $14 and youth - $10. Last tickets are sold 30 minutes before closing. For more information, visit www.plantmuseum.com. Ybor Tree Lighting Scheduled It is never too early to mark your calendar and get into the holiday spirit. The Ybor Chamber is hosting its annual tree lighting ceremony on Wednesday, November 17. The event will kick off with live holiday entertainment from 6-7 p.m., and Mayor Castor will light the tree at 7 p.m. Photos with
Santa and Mrs. Claus will take place from 7-8 p.m. and there will be free hot chocolate and cookies for the kids. For more information, visit www.ybor.org/treelighting. Lakeland Christmas Parade Features Santa And Mrs. Claus The 2021 Lakeland Christmas Parade will be held on Thursday, December 2 from 7-9 p.m. Hosted by the Junior League of Greater Lakeland and the City of Lakeland, the Lakeland Christmas Parade is held annually on the first Thursday in December. Recognized as one of Lakeland’s largest annual events, parade participants step off from the RP Funding Center to begin their 1.25-mile course winding through the city’s streets, around Lake Mirror and back down Lemon St. Parade participants deck out their floats to reflect each year’s theme, which in past years has included ‘The Giving City’ and ‘A Storybook Christmas.’ Each year, float participants compete to win special recognition in eight categories: most outstanding band, most original float, best professional float, best youth or educational float, best community float, best business float, best theme float and judge’s choice. The best, of course, is saved for last, as the parade wraps up with a visit from Santa and Mrs. Claus. Events Con’t...on next page
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November 2021
By tradition, the city will start at the TSS typically chose a disclubhouse, locattinguished Lakeland ed at 1250 Apollo citizen to serve as the Beach Blvd. in Apolparade’s honorary lo Beach. For more grand marshal. But, information, call starting in 2018, the 645-8377 or visit Junior League took www.sail-tss.org. a different approach The Tampa Lightaimed at encouraging ed Boat Parade, literacy with a Polk which begins at the County student essay Convention CenPhoto by Matt Stroshane ter, travels to The contest, which quickly became a new beloved This holiday season, Disney Springs at Walt Disney Heights and finWorld Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., will transtradition. ishes at Sparkman form into a winter wonderland, full of sparkling To learn more, lights, enchanting décor and holiday surprises. Wharf, will take visit www.jlgl.org/ place on Saturday, eve n t s /202 1 - l a ke December 18. For more informaland-christmas-pation, visit www.thetampariverrade. walk.com. Local Boat Parades Are Florida-Festive What better way is there to celebrate the holidays in Florida than with a festive boat parade? Many local communities are hosting boat parades this season. The Alafia Boat Parade, hosted by the Rotary Club of FishHawk-Riverview, will take place on December 4 from 5-8 p.m. starting at Williams Park and ending at River’s Edge Bar and Grill. For more information, visit www.alafiaboatparade.com. The Apollo Beach Boat Parade, sponsored by Tampa Sailing Squadron (TSS), will take place on December 11 at 6 p.m. The event
Walt Disney World Resort Making Plans For A Magical Holiday Season in 2021 Beginning November 12, festive entertainment, whimsical décor, seasonal food and drinks, special merchandise and more will all be a part of the 2021 holiday season across Walt Disney World Resort. For a first look at the merrymaking to come this year as part of “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” honoring the resort’s 50th anniversary, visit www.wdwresorts.com. Additional details about the 2021 holiday season will be announced in the future. For more on “The World’s Most Magical Celebration” and the 50th anniversary of Walt Disney World Resort, visit WDWNews.com.
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Holiday Gift Guide
POP UP A CELEBRATORY SNACK FOR A HOLIDAY TREAT
Family Features
Popcorn lovers 3/4 cup chopped rejoice: October is toasted almonds, National Popcorn divided Poppin’ Month, a 6 tablespoons seasonal celebratoffee bits, divided tion of one of Amer6 ounces milk ica’s oldest and chocolate, melted most beloved snack 1 ounce dark foods. chocolate, melted As farmers head In large bowl, into the fields to toss popcorn, a harvest crops, fam1/2 cup of almonds ilies and friends and 4 tablespoons gather to enjoy this of toffee bits. Drizever-popular treat. Popcorn is a great dish to serve during the holdiays zle with melted and for every day! Whether it’s premilk chocolate; toss pared on the stovetop, in the microwave until well coated. or ready to eat from the bag, Americans Transfer to parchment paper-lined bakconsume 15 billion quarts of this whole ing sheet. Drizzle with dark chocolate, grain each year. and sprinkle with remaining almonds and Celebrated for its seed-to-snack sim- toffee bits. Refrigerate for about 30 minplicity, popcorn is also non-GMO, vegan, utes, or until set, then break into clusters. gluten-free, sugar-free and naturally low Substitution: Use dark chocolate for in fat and calories, which makes it an milk chocolate, if preferred. easy fit for dietary preferences—and it’s budget-friendly. Churro Popcorn Add in popcorn’s irresistible smell, Servings: 2-3 taste and versatility, and it’s easy to un2 tablespoons granulated sugar derstand its popularity. With so many 1 tablespoon powdered sugar different ways to eat it—plain, buttery 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon or loaded with goodies like these tof2 tablespoons butter fee almond chocolate popcorn or churro 6 cups popped popcorn popcorn versions—popcorn fits many In small bowl, mix granulated sugar, moods and occasions. powdered sugar and cinnamon. Pop up a bowl and join the Popcorn In small saucepan, melt butter, then Poppin’ Month celebration with more stir in 1 tablespoon of cinnamon sugar. recipes at popcorn.org. In large bowl, toss popcorn with cinnamon butter until well coated. Sprinkle Toffee Almond Chocolate Popcorn evenly with remaining cinnamon sugar; Total time: 15 minutes, plus 30 minutes toss to coat well. chilling time Tips: For spicy variation, add 1 teaspoon Servings: 4 of spicy chipotle seasoning. Serve with 4 cups popped popcorn hot chocolate.
Volume 20, Issue 11
PLAN AHEAD FOR THIS YEAR’S HOLIDAY VACATION Family Features Whether your famM a n a g e ily counts a holiday against the unvacation among your expected. Detreasured traditions spite all the or you’re anticipating advantages of a holiday getaway for planning ahead, the first time, getting it’s impossible to an early start on your predict unknown planning can help envariables like the sure your trip is filled weather when with good tidings and you make travel joy. arrangements Know what you months ahead of want to spend. If time. Travel inPhoto courtesy of Getty Images surance can help you’re planning to open your wallet a little wider for this trip protect the majority of your investment if than you have in the past, you’re not alone. you have to cancel your trip. Some policies A survey by American Express Travel found offer coverage for cancellation for any reamore than 60 percent of travelers are plan- son, so you’ll want to research exactly what ning to spend more on trips in 2021 since your policy allows, including weather and they missed out on travel in 2020. Setting pandemic-related cancellations. your budget now can help you make choicBook lodging early. With travel volume up es about things like accommodations and and availability for accommodations already activities while giving you some extra time trending downward for the holiday season, to save. Working off a budget from the start consider making reservations sooner than can also help you take advantage of book- later. now, pay-later options that may give you “We typically see December bookings added savings or incentives. peak in October and November, but families Be conscious of high-demand destinations. are locking in their holiday vacation plans Popular travel spots tend to fill up fast, so if much earlier than usual,” said Melanie Fish, you’re considering visiting a high-demand lo- Vrbo’s travel expert. “Vacation homes have cation, be aware of how crowds might affect been quickly scooped up during every popuyour plans for everything from wait times at lar travel season this year, so it’s no surprise attractions to rental cars and more. Accord- families are planning ahead to ensure they ing to vacation rental company Vrbo, prime have a great place to spend the holidays towarm-weather destinations where families gether.” can spend the holidays together are already Consider how the holidays will affect your facing lower availability for homes, including packing. Especially if you’re traveling with Florida and Hawaii beaches. Similarly, Maui, children; you’ll need to make space for beHawaii, has less than 20 percent of homes loved holiday traditions such as gifts or a available during Christmas week. Ski spots visit from a certain jolly old elf. also see a large share of holiday travel, so be For more inspiration for your holiday getprepared if you’re planning on a holiday hot away, visit vrbo.com. spot.
Star Wars Stormtrooper Silver Round Value $50
November 2021
Holiday Gift Guide
BRANDON BALLET WILL HOST SUGAR PLUM FAIRY TEA PARTY IN NOVEMBER
By Kathy L. Collins
The Brandon Ballet will once again host its popular Sugar Plum Fairy Tea Party on Sunday, November 21 at 3 p.m. The tea will be held at The Regent, located at 6437 Watson Rd. in Riverview. Tickets are $17.50 plus tax online and $20 plus tax at the door. Tickets can be purchased by visiting www. b r a n d o n b a l l e t . The Brandon Ballet is excited to invite the community org/events/. The Sugar Plum to their Sugar Plum Fairy Fairy Tea Party is Tea Party on Sunday, Noa family-friend- vember 21 at 3 p.m. at The Regent. ly event which is perfect for all generations to enjoy together. Attendees get to enjoy cupcakes from Sweetie’s Delights, finger foods and, of course, tea. Join the Sugar Plum Fairy, Clara, and all of their friends from the Land of Sweets as they perform excerpts from The Nutcracker. Hannah Townend, administrative director for the Brandon Ballet, said, “We want everyone to know that even though the tea is returning to our season events, we are doing so with the health and well-being of every guest in mind. As such, all of our tea party guests, as well as the Sugar Plum Fairy herself, are required to wear masks for the duration of the event. Please note that we are limiting the number of tickets available this season in order to keep the indoor crowd to a
minimum.” Townend added, “We held many of our performance outdoors last season. We made a point to prioritize live performances as we know that is what united the community the most. This season, though we will not have as many outdoor performances, we still believe in the magic of live ballet, and we seek to do so safely.” The Brandon Ballet, which was founded in 1993, is a nonprofit ballet company that provides aspiring preprofessional artists with an education in the art of dance. By offering a superior training program and three major performances each year, the Brandon Ballet helps serious dancers broaden their dance experiences. The Brandon Ballet serves the community by offering performances in public spaces so that the community can attend live ballet performances. All company dancers receive the highest caliber of professional training on a weekly basis and are provided the opportunity to learn standard classical repertoire. For more on the Brandon Ballet, please visit www.brandonballet.org.
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LOCAL CHARITY BALL SUPPORTS LOCAL CHILDREN
By Kate Quesada
Are you ing the event looking for a in 2011, the way to have group has colfun for a lected $38,500 great cause in cash, 196 this holiday boxes of toys season? The and 95 bicy10th annucles. al Holiday This year, Charity Ball Savage and for Toys Frost hope to for Tots is collect more scheduled than ever with The 10th annual Holiday Charity Ball for Toys for Tots is to take scheduled to take place on Thursday, December 9 at The Regent the theme place on ‘Proud to be in Riverview. Th u r s d ay, an American.’ December Frost came 9 at The Regent in up with the idea for the Riverview, and tickevent 10 years ago and ets and sponsorship her student, Savage, opportunities are helped her bring it to available now. reality. Organized by lo“So many from the cal business owners community also pitched Tatyana Frost of The in to volunteer,” said Way 2 Dance and Bob Savage of Savage Frost. “Assistance that is invaluable to our Consulting, the gala is a high-class holiday cause and to whom I am forever grateevent raising toys and cash for Toys for ful. This year will be better than ever. We Tots and Metropolitan Ministries. can’t wait to have you join us.” According to Frost, who is the president Tickets to the event are $75 until the of The Way 2 Dance, the event will include end of October and $85 after that. a catered dinner, dancing, professional There are many sponsorship opportunientertainment and a silent auction in the ties available, from Star Diamond Sponbeautiful atmosphere of The Regent. sor at $2,500 to Bronze Sponsor at $150. “It is a fun event that helps two chariAttendees are asked to bring a new, unties,” she said. “This much-needed social wrapped toy, and attire is dressy jeans to event is sure to put a smile on the face of formal. everyone who is involved.” To learn more about the event and how Due to COVID-19, there was no gala last to purchase tickets, visit www.holidayyear, but the group was still able to do- charityballbrandon.com. Contact Frost nate 11 boxes of toys, 38 bikes and $7,000 at 966-4788 or Savage at 240-7772 to to Metropolitan Ministries. Since start- learn more about sponsorship.
Sunset Dinner Cruise Value: $100
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Holiday Gift Guide
Volume 20, Issue 11