Since it opened five years ago, the Lodge at Lakecrest has invited the community to its annual Toys for Tots Holiday Gala.

“It has gotten bigger and better every year,” said Diane DellaZanna, leasing manager. “This year, we added Christmas carolers, a jazz saxophone player by the pool and some additional holiday vendors.”

She estimated about 200 guests, including residents, Greater Temple Terrace Chamber of Commerce members and the public, attended and shopped with a collection of vendors:

• Time for Wine
• Serenbe Day Spa
• Gi Gi’s Gems & Jewels
• Stunning Glow Mobile Tanning
• Scentsy
• Mary Kay
• Belissimo Hair Salon
• For the Love of Cupcake

Uniformed marines stopped by to pick up three large boxes of toys that were collected for Toys for Tots, DellaZanna said.

“Giving back to the community is very important to us, and it is a real pleasure to have the opportunity to contribute in making that happen,” she said.

Thanks to Lauren Tice, the chamber's coordinator of Member Services, for adding photos from this event to the Temple Terrace Patch Pics & Clips gallery. You can share your photos, too! Just click the link to the gallery, and then click "Upload Photos and Videos."