When organizers of the 22nd Annual UPARC Festival of Trees Tampa Bay first thought of this year's theme, "A Royal Holiday," they never dreamed that they would actually have a "royal connection" come to the Festival. "The Steering Committee thought that 'A Royal Holiday' would be an elegant theme that would really inspire the decorators," said Georgine Brancato, who along with her husband, Anthony, is serving as Chair for this year's Festival."
However, the generosity of Belleair Jewelry owner, Deborah Wells, has made "A Royal Holiday" more than just a theme. This year the live auction at the Premiere Night Gala on Tuesday, November 21st will feature a framed pair of three-quarter length ivory fabric gloves that were purchased at auction from the Estate of the Duke and Duchess of Windsor, thus our "royal connection." King Edward VIII abdicated the throne of England in 1936 to marry Wallace Warfield Simpson, an American divorcee. Upon his abdication, Edward was named His Royal Highness the Duke of Windsor by his brother King George VI. When Edward and Wallace later married, Wallace became the Duchess of Windsor but was not allowed the title of Her Royal Highness. The two lived in exile from Britain for the remainder of their lives.
The 22nd Annual Festival of Trees is proud to bring our own "royal connection" to Tampa Bay.
The UPARC Festival of Trees Tampa Bay will be at the Harborview Center located at 300 Cleveland Street in downtown Clearwater November 22-26, 2006. The Premiere Night Gala will be held from 7pm - 9pm on Tuesday, November 21st at the Harborview Center. Tickets for the Gala are $65 or $95 for Patrons. To purchase tickets for the Premiere Night Gala via credit card, please call the Festival number, 727-712-3993. For information about the Festival, visit the Festival website, www.treefest.com.