Observer News

12/18/2025

By LINDA CHION KENNEY The sights and sounds of year-end holidays have been in full view, including at the Brandon Parade of Lights, populated in good part with south Hillsborough…

12/18/2025

By LOIS KINDLE A group of 18 neighbors turned what was once a community eyesore into a beautiful public garden, thanks to a $4,000 mini-grant awarded by Hillsborough County as…

12/18/2025

More than 100 children, ages 1 to 10, joined their parents Dec. 13 at Hillsborough County’s Breakfast with Santa. Filled with lots of laughter and excitement, the free event treated…

12/18/2025

By LOIS KINDLE Would you enjoy a full meal, while the Pelican Players weave a live mystery around you and invite you to piece together the clues and guess the…

12/18/2025

Wreaths Across America held its national event of laying wreaths at the gravesites of those who have served our nation through the military on Saturday, Dec. 13. This year’s event…

12/18/2025

By FRANCIS FEDOR The South Shore Six took to the courts for the week, starting Dec. 8, before the schools take a break for the holidays. Morgan traveled to East…

12/17/2025

CDP City Church to Host Community Toy Giveaway
CDP City Church will host a community toy giveaway and family event Saturday, Dec. 20, at its location at 17332 Carlton Branch Drive in Wimauma.
The event will run from noon to 3 p.m. and will feature a toy giveaway and bike raffle for children ages 0 to 18. Outdoor games and activities will be available for children of all ages.
Live music will be featured throughout the afternoon, and free food and beverages will be provided. Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and enjoy the music and outdoor activities.
Donations of new, unwrapped toys and cash are being accepted for those who wish to participate.
For more information, call 813-394-0558.

12/12/2025

Local organizations are teaming up this holiday season to ensure every family in the community experiences the joy of giving and receiving. A community toy drive is now accepting donations through Dec. 13, with organizers encouraging residents to help make the season brighter for children in need.
“Every family deserves something special this holiday season,” organizers said. “Your donation can make a great impact.”
Community members are invited to donate new, unwrapped gifts for children ages 3–16. All donated items will be distributed to families within the Bayou Pass community and the Mary & Martha House.
Drop-off locations and hours include
Louie Beans, 1406 Blossom Bayou Circle, Ruskin
Tuesday–Saturday, 7 a.m.–1 p.m.
FHP, 201 14th Ave. SE, Suite H, Ruskin
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
Enterprising Latinas, 5128 State Road 674, Wimauma
Monday–Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m.
For large or bulk donations, donors may email [email protected] or call 813-672-7889, ext. 266.
Organizers say every contribution—big or small—helps bring joy to children and families who may otherwise go withou

12/12/2025

12/11/2025

By LINDA CHION KENNEY Built and supported by show people, the Gibtown Showmen’s Club and nearby Carnival World Museum stand as testament to the deeply rooted history that connects show…

12/11/2025

By LOIS KINDLE The Ruskin Woman’s Club has been a force for good in southern Hillsborough County for 113 years. Affiliated with the General Federation of Women’s Clubs—one of the…