Arts and Culture in Tampa Bay

Hello there CMP Conclave attendees! Jeremy here and back with an update on some things to do in Tampa Bay for ya! It's not  gonna be all work and no play so we wanted to make sure to get your around and show you the highlights of this awesome place that we call home! Here are some quick details:

Highlights of Tampa Tour
Friday June 8, 2012
Tour Timing: 1:00pm –5:00pm

The city of Tampa comes to life as your guide highlights the area. Begin with a visit to the old Tampa Bay Hotel at the University of Tampa.

This National Historic Landmark features unique Moorish revival architecture and dramatic minarets. Soak in the splendor of days gone by as you see and hear the history of this fabulous hotel and its founder, railroad tycoon, Henry B. Plant.

A drive along beautiful Bayshore Boulevard and through the Hyde Park area will show you the diverse architecture that is Tampa.

The Florida Aquarium & Tampa’s Riverwalk
Saturday, June 9th, 2012
Tour Timing: 9:30am- 11:30am

Tampa is blessed with a beautiful waterfront and this morning you will have an opportunity to travel along that waterfront on the Riverwalk.

This will take you from the Tampa Convention Center, the Tampa Marriott Waterfront and its adjacent park, past Channelside and to the Florida Aquarium.

Along the way your guide will hear about how Tampa sprang up and thrived along this water’s edge and developed into what you see today. Once you arrive at the Aquarium you will experience the story of Florida’s water.

It's gonna be a pretty awesome tour so be sure to sign-up so you won' t miss out on this one! For more information, contact our friends over at Bay Area Destination Mangement for more info at 813-962-5888 or submit the registration form.

That's all for now, but stay tuned as we'll be back with more updates on Tampa Bay area events and other going's on!

Greetings all! Jerm here to give you the lowdown on all things Mother's Day in Tampa Bay this weekend, and boy are there plenty of things for you to do and places to take mom!

In Tampa Bay this weekend, you definitely have your pick of Mother's Day brunches throughout the are at some of the Tampa Bay area's finest dining establishments! Here's a quick list of a few of them!

Mother's Day Brunches and Dining

• Aqua Bar & Grille - AQUA's fresh colors reflect the vibrancy of the cool ocean waters. Experience an environment designed to entertain your every sense, highlighted by a water encased walk-in wine cellar and a state
  of the art open kitchen. Website - Menu

• Boizao Steakhouse - Mother's Day at Boizao mean's $29.99 per person! Website

• Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar -  Gather your family at Fleming's for a memorable Mother's Day celebration on Sunday, May 13th. They will be opening early for brunch at 11:30 am, but will have a $25 gift for your Mom no matter what time of day you choose to celebrate. Web Site

• ItalAsia - GREAT menu and VERY affordable at only $21.95 for adults and $10.95 for ages 6-12.  The menu is available on our new ItaliAsia. Web Site - Menu

• Roy's Hawaiian Fusion - Enjoy a  3-course Mother's Day Brunch starting at $29.95. All mom who dine will recieve a $20 dining card to use on their next visit.
  
  Web Site

• Yacht Starship - We’re celebrating Mother’s Day and the return of Florida’s Largest Dining Yacht in a BIG way! *The first 50 moms with parties of four or more cruise for FREE (Buy 3, Mom is free)! Call in reservations only! Offer not valid online. Restrictions apply. Subject to availability. 813-223-7999 Web Site
   
  Cruise Times
  Early Cruise                   Late Cruise
  Boards: 10:30 am           Boards: 2:00 pm
  Departs: 11:00 am          Departs: 2:30pm
  Returns: 1:00 pm           Returns: 4:30 pm
  
  Prices
  Adults: $44.95*
  Children: $29.95*
  *plus tax, port fee, and gratuity

Mother's Day Things to Do

• The Florida Aquarium - This Mother's Day treat mom to a sea of memories that she will never forget. Introduce her to our awe-inspiring Sand Tiger Sharks and over 20,000 other amazing sea creatures. Moms can enjoy free admission on May 12th and 13th with the purchase of a full paid admission. Web Site

• Henry B. Plant Museum - As our gift to all Mothers, free admission to the Henry B. Plant Museum on Mother's Day, May 13th! Bring your Mother to the Museum and let her escape to Victorian splendor at the former Tampa Bay Hotel. Web Site

• Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo - Bring mom to the Zoo for Mother’s Day and she gets in for free!  On Saturday, May 12 or Sunday, May 13, moms receive free admission with the purchase of their son’s or daughter’s full-priced admission ticket (paid ticket can be child or adult admission, as applicable). For moms to receive free ticket offer, the paid ticket must be purchased on May 12 or 13 only. Offer not combinable with other discounts. Web Site

• MOSI - May 7 & 8 - $5 Mother's Day.  Bring mom to MOSI on Saturday, May 7 or Sunday, May 8 and she gets in for only $5! Web Site

• Dinosaur World - Mom’s free on Mother’s Day (Mom receives free admission with a fully paid child admission) Web Site

• For more Mother's Day related things to do, be sure to check out 813 Area for more! Web Site

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know about a concert taking place at  The Patel Conservatory at David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts tomorrow!

Jazz Jamm is taking place on Wednesday, May 9, at 7 p.m. in the TECO Theater.

Students from the Patel Conservatory’s jazz classes will come together to perform in this jazz concert, under the direction of James W. Crumbly, Jr.

Regularly priced tickets start at $12. Tickets may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827), in person at the Straz Center Ticket Office or online at www.strazcenter.org.

The Patel Conservatory offers classes for children and adults of all experience levels in all kinds of dance, music and theater. More information about the Patel Conservatory is available by calling 813.222.1002 and by visiting www.patelconservatory.org.

Enjoy the show!

Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hey everyone!  Travis back...but with a special guest.  Scott from the Florida State Fairgrounds is going to be giving us some updates about what there is to see, do, interact with, and much more out at the Fairgrounds.  They have some really cool Tampa Bay Area Events happening, so make sure you keep checking back.  Take it away Scott -

You would never believe how hard it actually was to live 120 years ago in rural Florida.  No internet connection, no electricity, no air conditioning, and no iPhone.  Dirt roads dotted the landscape, travel was done by horse, and cattle roamed wild and was hunted by cowmen with an entrepreneurial spirit.  The word Pioneer comes to mind when thinking about these early settlers, and right here in Tampa you can experience first hand the experiences that these people had to endure.

Many places around the Tampa Bay area offer history experiences in museum settings, but none like Cracker Country Living History Museum.  This museum is part of the Florida State Fairgrounds, and is open for public events only a few times a year.  Interpreters sport bonnets and straw hats, and guests step into rural Florida’s history as it was in 1898.

See for yourself how the pioneers lived with the actual buildings that have been moved from places in Florida to be curated and refurbished on the fairgrounds.  Some of the crafts that guests will be able to participate in cutting out paper dolls, making period toys, sewing fabric dolls, cornhusk dolls, stuffing potpourri sachet, bookmark weaving, and quilting.  All of the museums buildings will be open to explore as well as being able to dip candles, twist rope, play with hoop catchers, pull and eat taffy, make a postcard, and laundry, a kids favorite.

A special event, Make and Take Craft Day on May 5th will feature craft making from the 1800’s plus all the buildings and hands-on activities that visitors enjoy.  The museum will be open from 10am - 4pm, and admission is $7 for adults, students (six to twelve years old) and senior citizens are $6, and children 5 and under are admitted free.  Additionally, all of the crafts that a visitor makes are included in the admission price.  Visit their Facebook page at “crackerycountrylivinghistory” to download a discounted admission coupon. 

So if your looking to start your weekend with a family fun activity, and your a history buff, Cracker Country is the place to be on Saturday afternoon.

And there you go...thanks Scott!  Like we said, Scott will be back with more updates about what's happening at the Florida State Fairgrounds, but next time without the introduction!! 

See everyone back here with more updates and great things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hello there all! Jerm here to tell you about an oldie but a goodie, over in the Rocky Point area at Aqua Bar & Grille located in the Westin Tampa Bay.

AQUA Bar & Grille's fresh colors reflect the vibrancy of the cool ocean waters for a super relaxing atmosphere. If you haven't had a chance to check it out yet, I say give it a shot, and you have plenty to choose from as they offer, breakfast, lunch, dinner , Sunday brunch, and even a bites menu! I can fully attest to how awesome the lunch menu is, as I was there today for lunch and took a stab at the skirt steak, and believe me when I tell you it was delicious!

Fulfill your every culinary craving at AQUA Bar & Grille, waterfront restaurant with global seafood flown in daily! It doesn't get much more fresh than that! AQUA Bar & Grille is designed to entertain your every sense, highlighted by a water-encased walk-in wine cellar and a state-of-the-art open kitchen, where our professionally trained chefs prepare sumptuous meals inspired by ingredients from around the globe.

One of my favorite things to do here is go out for one of the happy hour events on the weekend or after work! They are even pet friendly so you can bring Rover along with during Yappy Hours! Here are just some of the regular scheduled events going on at Aqua:

• Play by the Bay! Fridays and Saturdays - from 7 to 10 pm. Enjoy live entertainment on the patio.
• Yappy Hour! the third Saturday of each month, bring your furry friends  for happy hour, wine tastings and musical performance from 4 to 7 pm
• Happy Hour: Everyday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm - Enjoy special drink prices: $2.75 domestic long neck, $2 house wine, $3 well liquor

Well that's enough of me telling you how awesome this place is, I guess you need to go out and experience it for yourself!

Hey Folks! Here are some awesome things going on this weekend in Tampa Bay! Be sure to get out of the house and enjoy it all! We know we will!

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

98 Rockfest
98ROCK, Tampa Bay’s Rock Station, unveiled a line-up for 98ROCKFEST that will rock Tampa Bay on Saturday, April 28 at the Tampa Bay Times Forum.

This year’s impressive all-star lineup includes: Shinedown, Evanescence, Five Finger Death Punch, Halestorm, Trivium, P.O.D., Adelita's Way, Art of Dying, Otherwise and more (*artists subject to change). Tickets range from $30-$75. For more information call (813) 301-2500, visit the Tampa Bay Times Forum Website!

Cappella Music Festival
Free concert featuring Platinum Recording Artist, Sister Hazel and musical guests Miggs, Jr. Doctor, among others. Backline Music Group will host a day of outdoor music at the Cappella Music Festival featuring live musical performances, food, drinks and fun for the entire family.

General Admission is FREE‘Suite Six’ VIP package: $50 (includes front row “Best in House” seating, VIP areas and 2 complimentary cocktails, beer and/or wine). To reserve your tickets call 813.250.0011, or visit the website!

FOR THE KIDS

Mummies of the World
An incredible array of mummies and artifacts will be unwrapped for the public at Tampa's Museum of Science and Industry on Friday to reveal a haunting (some would even say creepy) collection of mummified people, pets and wildlife frozen in time.

This traveling exhibit is a rarity because it involves 21 different museums from around the world. Tickets are $18.95 for adults; $12.95 for children ages 2 to 12; $16.95 for seniors. For $5 more you can see both the mummies and the rest of MOSI, (813) 987-6000. mosi.org.

Dragon Boat Races and Asia Fest
Dragon Boat races and Asia Fest Dragons will be lurking in Garrison Channel this weekend as paddlers from across the U.S. and Canada compete to be Tampa's top dragon boat team. Meanwhile, the Asia Fest will run from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday at nearby Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, 601 Old Water St. It's free for the festival and to watch the dragon boats cruising down Garrison Channel starting at 8:30 a.m. Saturday behind the Marriott Tampa Waterside, 700 S Florida Ave., Tampa.

FOOD & WINE

SeaGrapes Wine and Food Festival
Sea Grapes Wine and Food Festival, The Florida Aquarium's annual food and wine event, set in the aquarium's exhibits, will have more than 100 fine wines, cuisine from area restaurants, live jazz, entertainment and silent auctions. Proceeds benefit aquarium youth education and conservation programs. 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday April 28. $95, $225 VIP. Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa.

Tour De France Dinner at Fleming
Join us for a memorable evening of wine appreciation as we explore the fabulous heritage of French food and wine through an exceptional five-course dinner. For more details check out our blog post, or call 813-874-9463 to make reservations!

Well folks, that's a quick round-up of all things going on this weekend! What are you up, in addition to these great events?

That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hello there folks! Jerm here with an update for you on a recent visit we took to visit our friends over at the Courtyard Tampa Westshore/Airport!

This was my first visit and I was really looking forward to it, as I have always heard great things about Courtyard properties so I knew I was in for a treat. Believe me when I say, that the Courtyard hotel offers the perfect location, close to area attractions and just three miles from the airport.

When you talk about state of the art, it all starts with the lobby at this place. Never seen such cool items that enhance the guest experience quite like this!

The state-of-the-art lobby features a new, more personal arrival experience that is sure to delight even the most traveled road warrior. Some of the highlights include:

• GoBoard® - The signature GoBoard®, an interactive, touch screen informational display panel, located in the lobby, allows you to access driving directions, view local weather, find a local restaurant, and catch up on all the latest news. Did I mention its all TOUCHSCREEN! How awesome is that exactly.
• Business Library - Get connected with free high-speed Internet access, as well as complimentary printing services.
• Media Pods - For more privacy, guests can work or relax in one of the comfortable media pods, featuring free wireless high-speed Internet access, power outlets for cell phone chargers and laptops, and a flat-screen TV with personal remote control.
• Theater Lounge - At the end of the day, enjoy a little time outside the room by relaxing in our Theater Lounge. This area is perfect for watching that all-important sporting event and more.

Enough talk about technology, lets talk about where you will spend most of your time... the room! Whether you like King Bedrooms, Double Bed Guest rooms, or Suites, these guys got you taken care of for when you are ready to get to the room and relax from a long day of travel, or long day of exploring Tampa Bay!

The spacious suite guest rooms feature separate living rooms and additional amenities including a TV in each room, microwave, mini-refrigerator and dry bar. I laid down on one of the beds, and was almost asleep five minutes later, so when you think comfortable beds, think Courtyard!

Each room is also equipped with complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access also, while sticking to that technology theme.

If you are looking to unwind and get away from technology for a second, the patio and outdoor space enables guests to unwind in cozy comfort, enjoy the outdoors, retreat from the hustle and bustle and even be inspired to work outdoors. On a beautiful day like today, there is no place I'd rather be.

If you are in the need to put food in your belly, they got you covered as well! The Bistro provides high quality, freshly prepared meals and beverages in a quick serve café environment. Breakfast features Starbucks coffee and a wide selection of pastries, egg sandwiches, and healthy fruit and yogurt parfaits. In the evening, The Bistro offers fresh hot sandwiches, entrée salads, soups and a selection of craft beers and quality wines.

All in all, its a pretty sweet option if you are looking for a great place to lay your head, while enjoying tons of awesome amenities. For more info, be sure to check out their website and get to booking!

Be sure to check it out on your travels and stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hey Tampa! Kristin here to tell you about the exquisite cuisine being served up at Council Oak Steaks & Seafood! Located in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Come out and experience the fine dining ambiance of Council Oak, named after the ancestral oak tree where the Seminole leaders would meet to discuss tribe affairs. 

Council Oak specializes in the finest USDA steaks and seafood, all of the top end meat coming from their very own butcher shop and seafood from local waters. Maine Lobster is also a signature feature.

In addition to the extensive menu offered, there are over 300 wines to choose from the intimate wine bar. This local gem has been rated highly by Zagat, as well as one of the “2011 Hot 10 Tampa Bay Restaurants” by Gayot, The Guide to the Good Life. The restaurant has also been awarded the Award of Excellence by the Wine Spectator Magazine.

Check out this sneak peak of some their signature dishes on the menu!

Appetizers:

• Steak Tartare made from chopped USDA prime beef with traditional seasoning ($12.50)
• Sea Scallops seared and topped with lemon and pomegranate ($14)
• Stuffed Clams ($10.50)

Main dishes:

• Dry Aged Lamb Chops ($50), Filet Mignon ($39)
• Grilled Free Range Chicken ($25)

Dessert:

• Crème Brulee with fresh berries marinated in Grand Mariner
• Council Oak 151 Volcano is made up of vanilla ice cream covered with Heath Bar Crunch flambéed tableside with a shot of 151 Rum

All new cocktails:

• Martinis feature a choice of nine differently-stuffed olives (examples: Chipotle pepper, Feta cheese and rosemary)

Come out to Council Oak, and enjoy this fine dining experience! That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more Tampa Bay dining and foodie related updates!

Hi everyone. We're excited to have a guest blog today by Joe Laing with El Monte RV Rentals!  Here you go:

Whether you are planning a family RV vacation to Tampa Bay or have Tampa on your Florida itinerary and plan to fly in to take in the sights, there is high adventure waiting for you in this exciting city. Sometimes even Tampa residents get so involved in their workaday world, they forget there are so many things for the whole family to do right at home.

Of course, you can't neglect the most important attractions in town. The first family adventure should be the famous Busch Gardens. This theme park has rides, shows and plenty of animal exhibits. Take the sky lift ride and get a unique view of the wildlife. Another must-see is Serengeti Safari at Busch Gardens, an unforgettable trip of over 65 acres of African Plain where you'll enjoy getting up close and personal with zebras, ostriches and much more.
 
When you love animals and sea life, Tampa Bay is the place to come. The Florida Aquarium offers an educational and interactive experience with touch tanks that allow kids to get "hands-on" with fascinating creatures. They also provide a Wild Dolphin Cruise so you can see some amazing dolphins in their natural habitat – Tampa Bay.

Something tells me it's all happening at the zoo, and Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo is no exception. Visit this highly rated zoo! The animals will love it if you do. The Big Cat Rescue is worth a visit, too. This is a large sanctuary dedicated to big cats, with over 100 lions, cougars and more.

Be sure to take the family to see the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center just south of Tampa. If visiting from November through April, you'll see manatees, an endangered species that finds love and attention here. Other times of the year, you can play games, see the butterfly gardens and experience a hurricane simulator. Best of all is the free admission.

Adventure Island has 30 acres of water rides, and if you desire a day of swimming in a giant wave pool, playing in waterfalls or rushing down a corkscrew slide, you'll love it here. The Florida sun isn't quite as ferocious when you visit this theme park.

The historic neighborhood of Ybor City is a wonderful place to soak up some interesting history. One of the best ways to absorb that history is to engage in the Secret City Walks, where you stick those headphones on your head and get a self-guided audio tour. This experience really brings the ghosts of Ybor City to life for the whole family.

No matter if you have an RV camper or car, you will find it extremely rewarding to drive over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, keeping an eye out for the dolphins that often appear in the water below. Great views are yours to behold from this marvelous bridge. You can also fit in some fishing from the nearby pier. Make it a point to stop at Bayshore Boulevard, a sidewalk that has the claim to fame of being the longest sidewalk in the world. Winding along the bay, you will truly enjoy the 4.5-mile stroll.

Love to visit parks and take part in many different outdoor activities? Lettuce Lake Park offers canoe rentals, fishing, hiking and a lovely path to take a bicycle. Another popular park to take a nice little trek through the woods is Al Lopez Park, 132 acres of great wildlife and a pond where you can throw in a line.

Speaking of canoeing, the perfect place to get away from the crowds is Hillsborough River State Park. Once you move away from the main picnic area, you will get some solitude and relaxation in the fragrant woods. This state park has an RV campground as well as tent camping. Hiking is great here too. Of course, if you prefer the beach you can take the Courtney Campbell Causeway over to Clearwater, and make your way right to Clearwater Beach. Walk out on the pier and enjoy the fresh salt air. The sand is clean and white.

Once back in Tampa, you may wish to see some of the museums in the city. There are many, but you can get a unique view of some of Tampa history at the Henry B. Plant Museum, once an opulent hotel where Teddy Roosevelt and Babe Ruth stayed. Another site you shouldn't miss if the Museum of Science and Industry, with over 450 hands-on activities that the kids will love.

Yes, Tampa offers much adventure for any family, whether exploring on an RV vacation or touring by car.

About the Author
Joe Laing is the Marketing Director for El Monte RV Rentals. You can see more great RV vacation ideas in their Monty's Musings RV Travel Blog. Be sure to check their Florida Rentals page for a luxury motorhome for a Florida vacation adventure.

Who would have thought that a vacant poolside kitchen would turn into a hydroponic garden serving fresh produce to the many Marriott customers and guests throughout the Bay area? The Tampa Marriott Waterside decided that they needed to use the vacant spaces in their hotel, and put them to good use.

They developed one hydroponic garden near the pool, and a roof top garden. All produce is dispersed among the Marriott restaurants for customers to enjoy.

This choice has allowed for a savings of over $1,000 a month in food cost. That is amazing! Currently they are producing 75-100 heads of lettuce which are used for salads throughout restaurants. The roof top tomato garden is hoping to stay on track by producing 160- 320 pounds of tomato from each crop.

A rain harvesting irrigation system, created out of mostly recycled materials was built for the rooftop garden.  Among the vegetables being grown, the hotel is growing herbs and flowers; basil, chives, mint, rosemary, thyme, oregano, marigolds, and sunflowers.

Not only us the Marriott being environmentally friendly, saving money, but allowing their customers to enjoy in a healthy eating experience throughout their restaurants! Thats all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay hotels!
 

Hello there College Hockey Fans! Jerm here with an update for you on all things College Hockey Rewards, and the NCAA Frozen Four Hockey Championships at the Tampa Bay Times Forum!

College Hockey fans are about as passionate a bunch you can get, so its been awesome to see all the conversations happening on Twitter, and see how excited fans from each school are! The teams will be here today, so be sure to check the schedule out to see where your team and fan headquarters are going to be!

So if you haven't already logged in and started earning points, I suggest you do so, as there are some pretty cool commemorative badges as well as prizes you can win for earning points and getting to certain levels.

So many of you have already earned rewards like lapel pins, hockey pucks, t-shirts and even the grand prize drawing for a Frozen Four Hockey Jersey!

Here are the point totals for what you can, but for how to win these cool items, be sure to log on to CollegeHockeyRewards.com for ways to earn badges and prizes!
 

• 2,500 points: Frozen Four 2012 Lapel Pin
• 5,000 points: Frozen Four 2012 Souvenir Puck
• 10,000 points: Frozen Four 2012 T-Shirt
• 15,000 points: Chance to win one of two commemorative Frozen Four 2012 jerseys, customized with the winner's name and signed by Frozen Four alum Marty St. Louis

What are you waiting for! Get out there and start earning points. You'll be able to redeem your prizes starting at the Tampa Bay Times Forum West Plaza on Thursday, April 5th between 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m., or on Saturday, April 7th between 1:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. at Frozen Fest to claim your rewards!

Be there or be square as we will not be mailing the items! Hope to see you all out there and be sure to keep playing away and sharing!

Hello Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know about a musical, performed by students in grades five through eight, coming to the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts this April!

The Patel Conservatory Youth Theater will be presenting the musical Once Upon a Mattress, April 12-14 and 19-21 in the TECO Theater.

Once Upon a Mattress is the hilarious musical adaptation of the Hans Christian Andersen fairy tale, The Princess and the Pea. Unexpected twists and turns keep the audience guessing, in this freshly updated version.

The story of Once Upon a Mattress follows Princess Winnifred as she arrives at Prince Dauntless the Drab's castle and hopes to marry the prince. The prince’s mother, Queen Agravain, insists that her son marry a true princess, who would feel a pea underneath a pile of mattresses. The test begins and true happiness follows. This rollicking spin on the familiar classic of royal courtship and comeuppance provides for some side-splitting shenanigans, all the while interspersed with toe-tapping songs and uplifting melodies.

This musical will be fun for the entire family!

Once Upon a Mattress runs April 12-14 and 19-21, Thursdays and Fridays at 7 p.m. and Saturdays at 2 and 7 p.m.

Hurry and purchase your tickets today! Regularly priced tickets, now through March 29, start at $12. Beginning March 30, regularly priced tickets start at $15. Tickets may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827) or 800.955.1045 outside Tampa Bay, in person at the Straz Center Ticket Office or online at www.strazcenter.org.

Enjoy the show! Check back often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hey there college hockey fans!

The Hobey Baker Award is the most prestigious award in all of men’s college ice hockey, honoring the top player in college hockey.

This year’s Hobey Baker Award winner will be announced Friday, April 6, 2012 from MacDill Air Force Base in Tampa, FL during the NCAA Frozen Four.  The 32nd annual announcement will be aired live on the NHL Network at 6:00 p.m., ET, and at the Hobey website, www.hobeybakeraward.com.

The three finalists are the following listed below Spencer Abbott, Jack Connolly, and Austin Smith. The criteria in order to qualify for this award is more than just being a force on the ice, but having a dominant presence in the community.

Candidates must contribute to the integrity of the team and display outstanding skills in all aspects of the game. Consideration of a candidate should be given for both scholastic achievement and sportsmanship.

All candidates must comply with all NCAA rules, be at an accredited college or university, and complete 50% or more of the season.  

Spencer Abbott
Abbott, a senior forward from The University of Maine, the once recruited walk- on four years ago, will take his skills to the next level with the Toronto Maple Leafs, signing a one year contract four days after his team was eliminated from the NCAA tournament. He will be playing for the Leafs farm club, the Toronto Marlies. Abbott a 5’10 175 lb. forward, known for his speed has led the NCAA in scoring with 21 goals, and 41 assists. He was named Hockey East Player of the Year, Hockey East Player of the Month in December and February, Player of the Week three times, and Hockey East First All Star Team. Abbott fulfilled his degree as a Family Relations major and has been on the Dean’s List three times. Off the ice Abbott is active in the community helping with Special Olympics, and assisting at youth hockey clinics.

Jack Connolly
University of Minnesota Duluth 5’8, 155 Ib. senior forward Jack Connolly finished second in the NCAA to help Duluth lead as the second highest scoring team in the nation this past season. Known for great foot speed, and his vision on the ice, he set the school record playing in 166 games, not missing one during his four seasons, finishing eighth in program career scoring with 66 goals and 131 assists. Connolly led UMD to its first ever NCAA Men’s Championship in 2011. He is a two time All- American, first three time first team WCHA- Selection in school history, and repeat Hobey top ten finalist. The hometown native from Duluth is very involved in the community with the Boys & Girls Clubs, visiting Duluth hospitals, adopt a highway and working with various cancer fund-raisers. He’s a Communications major with a 3.3 GPA. He is a pro hockey free agent.

Austin Smith
Austin Smith 5’11, 180 lb., senior forward of Colgate University rounds out his college hockey career as one of the top scorers in all of college hockey, scoring 20 goals faster than any college player in the last 12 years, finishing + 25, making him third in the nation. He finished the year out with 36 goals and 21 assists. He led the nation with 6 shorthanded goals and seven power play goals. Smith was awarded the EAC scoring title this past season, Conference Player of the Year, and First Team All Star, not to mention a fifth round draft pick for the Dallas Stars. Smith graduated with a Sociology and Anthropology major, and is involved with the Hamilton NY Food Cupboard, assisting with food and toy drives, and the Goals for Good program.

Well those are your three finalists folks! Be sure to be watching to see who wins this year's award, and also check back for more updates on Frozen Four things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex back with some exciting news about a wonderful event taking place in Ybor City!

A Taste of Italy, right in the heart of Historic Ybor City... is celebrating  its 15th Anniversary this weekend!

The festivities kicked –off last night with  Wines of Italy and they will continue throughout the weekend.

Celebrate fabulous Italian Cinema with Cinema Italiano at The Italian Club with a showing of "Mid-August Lunch"  tonight at 7pm and a showing of "Christ in Concrete" on Saturday, March  31 at 7pm. 
Admission is FREE,  with donations accepted at the door.  Espresso, Dolci and popcorn will be available.

On Saturday, March 31, Festa Italiana is hosting a free day of festivities for the entire family to enjoy.  Festa Saturday features the annual Bocce Ball Invitational Tournament in Centennial Park, an assortment of Italian food, the Italian Idol Competition and much more.

Festa Italiana's 15th Annual Event takes place on Sunday, April 1, when Centennial Park and Historic Ybor City host over thirty Tampa Bay area restaurants and caterers.  The Taste of Italy tent will feature classic Italian dishes, cocktails and  much more.

What better way to spend your weekend than outdoors in Tampa Bay, enjoying delicious Italian food, fun games and great music with friends and family? I don’t think anything can beat that… Don’t miss out!

Festa Italiana benefits the Italian Club Restoration Fund. 

For more information, please visit:  www.FestaItalianaTampa.com

I hope you all enjoy the festa! Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hey there college hockey fans Jerm back to tell you about an awesome new component to college hockey's showpiece event!

As part of the excitement surrounding the NCAA Men’s Frozen Four’s first trip to the south in its 64 year history, the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Tampa Bay & Company and Tampa Bay Lightning have teamed up with full-service interactive agency Engage to create a great way for college hockey fans to engage in all the awesomeness!

CollegeHockeyRewards.com is a social media rewards campaign to incentivize passionate college hockey social media users to be active on their social media platforms leading up to and during the 2012 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four.  Now you are probably thinking... "this is awesome... how do I play along! Well let me tell you!

All you have to do is sign up at CollegeHockeyRewards.com and check in and get engaged on social media outlets Facebook, Twitter and Foursquare, users will be rewarded with points by completing various tasks.  In addition to virtual rewards such as badges and videos, users will also have the chance to win tangible merchandise, including lapel pins, souvenir pucks, t-shirts, jerseys and more.  

Sign up now to start scoring points and winning prizes, and be sure to check back with us during the week as we continue to update you on all the Frozen Four festivities! You can also get updates and tips on Twitter by following @HockeyRewards!

Hello there college hockey fans! Jerm here with an update on next week's NCAA Frozen Four for those of you still looking to purchase tickets!

For the first time in the history of the event, the NCAA is bringing the crown jewel of college hockey to the South, as the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, Tampa Bay Times Forum and University of Alabama in Huntsville host the 2012 NCAA Men’s Frozen Four on April 5 and 7 at the newly-renovated Tampa Bay Times Forum.

Our friends over at the Tampa Bay Sports Commission are pleased to offer the purchasing of individual VIP tickets in the Forum’s North Party Suite for both the Semifinals and Championship/three games for $375. This package also includes unlimited access to the Tampa Bay Sports Commission’s pregame VIP tailgate area.

The newly renovated, all-inclusive executive club is located on the north end of the arena (attack end for hockey). The Party Suite provides stadium style seating, private restrooms, unlimited buffet access, and all-you-can-drink beverages. Individual lower level tickets, which do not include a hospitality option, are available while limited supplies last for $195.

Interested fans should download this form and fax back to 813-218-3375 or email to Bguthrie@VisitTampaBay.com! Act fast, as these tickets will be gone before you know it!

Hey there Hockey college hockey fans! As we draw ever so close the to the dropping of the puck for next week's NCAA Frozen Four Men's Hockey Championships, we wanted to drop by and give you some insight to each team and the path taken to the Frozen Four! All four teams are well deserving and I don't know about you, but I'm looking forward to some awesome games!

Boston College
Boston College has done it again, returning to the Frozen Four for the 23rd time, making its third visit in the past five years.  The Eagles defeated University of Minnesota Duluth Sunday night, 4-0, keeping their 17 game winning streak in play.

This is nothing new for the Eagles back in the semifinals, with their 31st NCAA tournament appearance. The hockey powerhouse has reached the championship game seven times in the last 14 years winning two of the last four NCAA championships. Sunday's win improved BC coach Jerry York's NCAA tournament record to 35-19-1 all time, and 30-9 with the Eagles. The Eagles have taken the national championship crown four times, in 1949, 2001, 2008 and 2010. BC’s players to watch are Nathan Gerbe, a junior forward.

He has racked up 30 goals and 30 assists in 41 games and ranks second in the nation in scoring, named first-team Hockey East and the league's playoff MVP, the Dodge Holiday Classic MVP and was the Hockey Commissioner's December National Player of the Month. Goaltender Parker Milner was named the regional’s most outstanding player, stopping 33 shots with two consecutive shut outs.  Brian Dumoulin was named a Hobey Baker finalist.

University of Minnesota
For The University of Minnesota, they know what hard work is and persevered to get through the past few years the program has encountered.  The complete turnaround has them setting foot on the ice of the Frozen Four. This will be the Gophers first visit since 2005 to the Frozen Four. Winning the West regional by defeating North Dakota 5-2, and taking the last nine of eleven games, they have one more step to take when they get off the plane in Tampa.

UM has won five NCAA titles, the last one in 2003. 2012 is the Gophers 20th Frozen Four, 33rd NCAA tournament visit.  Players to watch in the Gophers line up are Eric Haula, sophomore forward, leading the team in points and shots. Freshmen forward Kyle Rau, Named to the All-WCHA Rookie Team. Nick Bjugstad, sophomore forward first team All-WCHA. Goalie, Kent Patterson named to the All-WCHA First Team and won also the WCHA Goaltending Champion title with a 2.06 goals-against average in league games.

Union College
Union College out of Schenectady New York will be participating in its first Frozen Four at the Division I level. The Dutchmen played in the Division III Final Four during 1984 and 1985. Union took the East Regional title game defeating UMass-Lowell 4-2. This continues to be an exciting season for first year coach Rick Bennett, keeping the team poised and ready to go for the semifinal. This year’s team has had one of the best years in its history, hitting the height of national polls. Goaltender Troy Groseniek was named a Hobey Baker finalist. Another player to watch is junior forward Jeremy Welsh, named East Regional Most Outstanding Player.

Ferris State
The Bulldogs started the season picked to finish ninth in the conference, by Valentine’s Day they were ranked number one in the country by all three major Division I polls. They just took out Denver and Cornell each holding multiple championship crowns. Ferris State has proven that you don’t need mega star roster, just hard work.  Ice hockey is the only sport that the school participates in at the Division I level. They do not have one player drafted by an NHL team, and prior to this year 2003 was their only trip to the NCAA tournament. They could be the next Cinderella story hitting the ice in Tampa. Check out player Taylor Nelson who received Midwest regional MVP honors.

Well folks, there's your re-cap! Be sure to keep checking back with us for more Tampa Bay sports and Frozen Four updates!

Hi everyone!  Travis here with your update about the latest and greatest things to do in Tampa Bay - more specifically at MOSI!  Here's what the largest science center in the Southeast US has going on throughout April:

What about Autism? A USF Reel-to-Real Event
Tuesday, April 3   
6 – 9 p.m.
Science Works Theater  
To celebrate World Autism Awareness Day, health and education professionals and the general public are invited to learn more about current advances in understanding autism. In the movie Rain Man (1988, rated R), an older brother (played by Tom Cruise) learns about autism as he cares for his brother (played by Dustin Hoffman). A panel of experts in autism will discuss current knowledge and therapies after the film.
Program fee: $10 per person
Registration is available by calling 813-987-6000.

Shooting Saturn on Saturday
Saturday, April 14   
7 – 10 p.m.
Saturn is at its closest position to Earth which is perfect for photographing this beautiful ringed planet and its moons. Join MOSI as we use cameras, telescopes and other technologies to capture the night sky. We will bring the expertise and telescopes; you bring your cameras and a sharp eye.  Together, we will learn to shoot Saturn. Enjoy an interactive Planetarium show and a viewing of Saturn Ring World.
Program fee: $35 per person; $50 per couple
MOSI member: $26 per person; $40 per couple

Mummies of the World
Friday, April 27
The highly-anticipated Mummies of the World exhibition will debut at the Museum of Science & Industry on Friday, April 27. With its astounding collection of 150 specimens and objects, Mummies of the World is the largest exhibition of real human and animal mummies and related artifacts ever assembled. The exhibition will offer you a rare chance to experience naturally and intentionally preserved mummies from around the globe, and will reveal the importance of science in studying ancient life. Tickets are currently on sale and you can find more information by visiting our website at www.mosi.org.

Star Wars Inspired Jedi Academy Camp-In
Saturday, April 28 beginning at 6 p.m. until Sunday, April 29 at 10 a.m.
Celebrate the Star Wars saga by enrolling your family in MOSI’s Jedi Academy for an evening of excitement and out of this world fun! Build your lightsaber and train in the art of dueling with a Jedi Master / stunt coordinator. Test your fighter piloting skills in space battles, build droids out of candy and use the force to run through the Jedi Temple obstacle course. Learn about travelling to other planets and the science behind Star Wars technologies and aliens. Enjoy a Star Wars-inspired dinner in preparation for a night that will be more fun than a barrel of Ewoks. Dinner and breakfast included. Preregistration is required.
Program fee: $105 per parent-child team; $60 per additional child
MOSI member: $79 per parent-child team; $45 per additional child

National Take Back Drugs Day
April 28
10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
In conjunction with the DEA, MOSI will be a drop-off site for prescription drugs.

As you can see, they have a ton of great things going on, so make your plans to get out there and see what they have to offer.  We'll see you back here for more great Tampa Bay area events! 

Tampa Bay has proudly hosted and will continue to host many successful meetings, conferences and sporting events which will generate thousands of room nights and provided an economic impact into the millions for the city of Tampa and with the 2012 Republican National Convention coming in just a few months… Tampa just keeps getting better …

Last month members of Tampa Bay & Company convention sales team, Alex Kaptzan,Director of Sales, Dori Laack, Regional Account Executive/DC and Tammy Lamm, National Sales Manager along with industry partners, representing the Tampa Convention Center, Embassy Suites Downtown Tampa & Eventions of Florida were in Washington DC to attend the Destination Marketing Association International [DMAI] Destination Showcase Conference & Expos.

Throughout the week, Team Tampa attended a variety of educational sessions, general sessions and networking opportunities with new planners, potential customers, as well as existing customers all the while promoting Tampa Bay as a premier meetings destination.

So, whether you're an association, corporate, government, or third-party/independent meeting planner, we encourage you to come & discover the treasures of Tampa Bay for your next meeting or conference.  To learn more about Tampa go to our website: www.VisitTampaBay.com

That’s all for now, but be sure to stay tuned in for more Tampa Bay meetings & convention updates from the Tampa Bay Convention Sales Team …

Until then, Think Tampa!

Destinations Showcase Washington is the largest one-day event in North America which exclusively brings Convention & Visitor Bureaus - conference, convention, and trade show professionals together with exhibiting meeting destinations from the United States and beyond.

For more information –http://www.destinationsshowcase.com/washington/

From March 6 – 8th, Tampa Bay & Company representatives and its partners embarked upon another successful sales mission in Washington DC, one of its top feeder markets.  Four Tampa Bay & Company partners joined Regional

Account Executive Dori Laack and National Sales Manager Tammy Lamm for three client event functions. 

The purpose of this mid-year team Tampa Bay sales mission was to engage existing clients and build a rapport with some new clients in a fun, casual and relaxing atmosphere.

In keeping with all the new and exciting things happening in Tampa this was just one mission where we truly got to do things differently and creatively all the while allowing our clients to uncover the treasures of Tampa with a Tampa themed painting class and a culinary class.  The theme of two hosted events were "Palette or Palate - Choose your favorite withTampa Bay".   

In keeping with the knowledge that partnership for Tampa Bay & Company is one of the keys to our success  - for our third client event it was a wise decision to partner with one of our top third-party producers - IMN Solutions. 

Our newly appointed regional account executive, Dori Laack as well as team Tampa had the opportunity to meet & greet with our IMN Solutions partners along with a few of their top clients for a Tampa Lightning vs. Washington Capital hockey event. 

What a successful mission! As with all three events the customer/clients – have either met or will be meeting in Tampa that will generate thousands of hotel room nights while producing an economic impact for the destination – not forgetting the potential to provide future RFP’s to consider Tampa for meetings or conferences ...noting that since returning home we having already received RFP’s from this mission!

Well that's all for now ... but until the next time... THINK TAMPA & stay tuned in for more Tampa Bay meetings & conventions updates.

The focus of the Convention Sales team of Tampa Bay & Company is to bring conventions and meetings to Tampa Bay to create positive economic impact for Hillsborough County.  Tampa Bay & Company leads the effort of “Economic Development Through Tourism” in Hillsborough County.

For more information about Tampa Bay & Company, visit www.VisitTampaBay.com.