Conventions in Tampa Bay

And The Winner Is....Alexis Gray!!!

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Convention Sales

Congratulations are in order for Alexis Gray of the Doubletree Guest Suites Tampa Bay, who recently received top national honors for being recognized as a national winner of the Catch Me At My Best Program!

For this contest, all of the DoubleTree team members participated in a customer focused service program initiated by the Doubletree Brand called Catch Me At My Best.

Each team member had the opportunity to have special comment cards filled out from guests who “catch” them going above and beyond. Alexis was the top winner in the high customer contact category.

Additionally, the names of those with the highest number of cards from each hotel were submitted to the corporate office for a chance to win a national award. Alexis was among those national winners and was received a cash prize, special recognition, and some other token prizes.

Hey Lexie, since you are rolling in the dough these days, can I borrow $20? Just kidding... I only need $10...lol! Additionally with your new found welath, I will be expecting a great Christmas gift from you! Please pay me no mind, as I am being silly...

All joking aside though, congratulations to Alexis and the staff over at The Doubletree Guest Suites Tampa Bay as they continue to be a shining examples of the hospitality industry here in Tampa Bay!

To see Alexis and the great staff in action, or to plan your next meeting or convention, please visit the Doubletree Guest Suites Tampa Bay website!

That's all for now folks, but keep checking back for more on the Tampa Bay hospitality industry and Tampa Bay Meetings!

This is Jerm signing off from your Tampa Bay Team!

Attending BBB at the Performing Arts Center

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Partner Pulse

Hey everyone...Julie here with a BBB update! I went to Business by the Bay last night at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center (soon to be known as the The David A. Straz, Jr.
Center for the Performing Arts in the Carol Morsani Hall and had an ahhhhhmmmmazing time. Waiters delivered appetizers as people sauntered around and mingled. The setting was beautiful.

The energy of so many performers and dancers and technicians all devoted to your entertainment swirls around the room and you feel as though you play a distinct part in bringing all of the effort together and landing in that one spot.

This space has an unmistakable wondrous atmosphere about it that takes your breath away. Which is why this is the perfect setting for the premier of Wonderland: Alice's New Musical Adventure, produced by our very own Tampa Bay PAC!

It was nice to see Lovelynn from Grand Events of Florida: Creating Grand Environments for 20+ years in the for Tampa Bay Resorts, Tampa Bay Meetings and Tampa Bay Conventions. Professional event design and production, decor, lighting, A/V, entertainment, custom fabrication and sewing, stage design, live foliage.

And Louis from Nola Cafe and News Stand: Featuring a full list of signature coffees, beignets and only the most authentic New Orleans fare. Relax in the French Quarter atmosphere, listen to New Orleans jazz and blues and enjoy a cup of café au lait and beignets. And of course no event would be complete without Dianne striking a pose! This picture just HAD to be included! I'm sure it is of no surprise to you that Paul had his hand in goading her on!

With the appetizers and free drink ticket and Tampa Bay & Company's very own Jeremy Fairley on hand to help you get started with social media in your own organization I think people felt the time was certainly well spent.

If you want to come with me and have a great time the next Business by the Bay is at The Lime 915 S Howard Ave Tampa, FL 33606; Tuesday December 8th from 5 p.m. to 7p.m.

Until the next time, stay tuned for more of my updates on fun filled things to do in Tampa Bay!

# 7 GEORGIA TECH TO PLAY IN ACC FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP!

Monday, November 16, 2009 by Josh Jones

The # 7 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (10-1) have won the Coastal Division of the Atlantic Coast Conference and will contest against the Atlantic Division Champion at the 2009 Dr Pepper ACC Football Championship taking place December 5 in Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay, Fla.

Shaping up for a race to the finish in the Atlantic Division are the Clemson Tigers and the Boston College Eagles! Clemson can clinch a spot in the title game with a win this weekend or a Boston College loss. Boston College can clinch with a Clemson loss and two more wins in their season.

Will you be there? Tickets are on sale now for this year’s game, which returns to prime time national television, with an 8 p.m. (ET) kickoff on ESPN.

Georgia Tech's last ACC title was a share in 1998. The Jackets won it outright in 1990, the same year they won the national title. Their last trip to the ACC title game was in 2006. This 2009 Georgia Tech team, though, is viewed by many as the best it's been in a long time.

Clemson’s last ACC title was in 1991 and has never been to the ACC Championship since its existence.

Purchase your tickets to this year’s Dr Pepper ACC Football Championship, one of the best values in all of college football by logging onto www.ticketmaster.com or clicking here!

For all other information about the 2009 ACC Football Championship, log on to www.TheRoadToTampaBay.com!

Stay tuned for more updates on Tampa Bay area events and Tampa Bay Sports Commission updates!

Go Spartan Volleyball Go!

Monday, November 16, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

Now you know that being a University of Tampa Alumnus, I am looking for any and every opportunity to promote UT Athletics!

I must admit, that this recognition is long overdue though for our Women's Volleyball team as they have had yet another phenomenal season!

Our girls, at (28-2) are set to make their 14th consecutive appearance in the NCAA Tournament and 25th overall trip in 30 seasons. The Spartans are coming off of their fifth consecutive Sunshine State Conference title to give the program 19 overall.

UT will play host to Albany State in Thursday's opening round in the 7:30 p.m. match. The winner of the South Regional will advance to the NCAA Elite Eight which will be held at a campus site to be determined.

Tickets may be purchased at the gate for $10 (adults) and $6 (students with ID/senior citizens). Children under the age of five shall be admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult.

Go out and support my Spartans as they look to bring home another national Championship trophy!

Thats all for now, but stay tuned for more Tampa Bay Sports updates from Jerm and your Tampa Bay team!

Tampa Museum of Art... It's Almost Here!

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Convention Sales

It is me again, Linda Mummert reporting some exciting news for the Tampa Bay area. The Tampa Museum of Art is planned to open on February 6, 2010 in downtown Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park.

It was designed by San Francisco architect Stanley Saitowitz, the building will feature a shimmering pierced aluminum exterior, and state-of-the-art gallery spaces with innovative translucent ceilings and polished stone floors. Five expansive interior galleries, one exterior sculpture gallery, an educational classroom equipped with the latest technology will offer visitors a wide variety of visual art experiences.

The museum will provide the Tampa Bay area with world-class traveling exhibitions, a growing collection of contemporary and classical art expanded educational programs and access to scenic outdoor events along Tampa’s Riverwalk. TMA will become a nationally recognized major arts destination and premier venue for residents and visitors. The museum’s interim facility is located at 2306 N. Howard Avenue in Tampa.

TMA recently announced they have selected Mise en Place of Tampa as the exclusive food and beverage café and catering services operator for its new facility. Ann Frechette will be the Catering Director for the Tampa Museum of Art.

The new Tampa Museum of Art will feature a café, Sono Café, which will be open seven days a week and will overlook the banks of the Hillsborough River and be accessible to all visitors through an admission free entrance. The café will have a seating capacity of approximately 75, including waterfront tables and will offer menu items appropriate to visitors of all ages. Sono Café’ will embrace the “Slow Food Movement”, which counters fast food, and fast life and invites guests to slow down and enjoy the dining experience with all the sensations that accompany the consumption of good food and quality ingredients in a comforting environment.

The menu of Sono Café’ is rooted in Italy – where the concept of “Slow Food” was founded in 1989 and will offer guests a range of choices from wine to dessert, and everything in between. The new museum will offer exquisite spaces for weddings, corporate events, and Tampa Bay meetings.

Rental spaces include lobby receptions for 300-400 people, seating dining for 200-250 people, exterior gallery receptions that can accommodate 125 people, and meeting rooms to accommodate small to medium gatherings with a maximum capacity of 120 people. The meeting rooms will be equipped with state-of-the-art technology, including modern A/V equipment and internet access.

As the exclusive catering operator, Mise en Place will provide all catering services for museum rentals and special events. For further information, please contact the Ann Frechetta at 813-253-6473 or email rentals@tampamuseum.org. The museum’s switchboard can also be reached at 813-274-8130.

Please take the time to visit TMA when it opens in February 2010 and have a relaxing meal! Well, this is it for my exciting news. Stay tuned for my next tidbit of Tampa Florida News.

HART wins the State's Best "Outstanding System" Award

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Convention Sales

Well here I am again, Linda Mummert giving you the low down on Tampa Bay's very own Hillsborough Area Regional Transit has won the title of "Outstanding Transit System" by the Florida Public Transportation Association.

HART was awarded with this prestigious honor at its recent annual conference in Jacksonville. The Outstanding Transit System award emphasizes achievement in efficiency and effectiveness, as measured by both quantitative and qualitative factors.

As part of the award process, HART submitted ridership and productivity numbers for the past three years, showing consistent growth.

Fiscal management is another important measurement, and HART demonstrated effective financial control by monitoring all related financial activities to ensure revenues, costs and cash flow are in compliance with stated objectives. In the last year, the implementation of efficiencies in various services and processes led to a savings of more than $1 million, which HART has been able to direct back into its Tampa Bay transit service.

In addition, HART's achievements in safety, operations, customer service, staff development, policy administration and marketing and community relations were considered.

The award recipients are chosen by the distinguished FPTA Organizational Awards Committee, which is comprised of the FPTA Executive Director, a representative from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and a representative from the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) at the University of South Florida.

On another note, HART also provides door-to-door paratransit service, Travel Training. and manages the TECO Streetcar system which provides transportation to shopping in Tampa Bay, our entertainment districts in Channelside, Hyde Park and Ybor City. The streetcar is a wonderful alternative for our visitors and convention attendees to get around Tampa Bay and our local attractions.

They have won my HART and I am sure yours. Let's give our HART team a high five for winning the Best in the State Award! Over and out for now. Stay tuned for more Tampa Florida news.

Check out Mainsail's New Digs...

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Convention Sales

Hi everyone! I'd like to introduce myself, my name is Heather Helton. This is my first blog post and I look forward to sharing more blogs with you in the near future.

I'm excited to help spread the word about what's new and what's to come in Tampa. First, I would like to tell you about the BRAND NEW Mainsail Suites Conference Center.

This state-of-the-art facility is a total of 17,000 sq ft of meeting space--which includes a 6,500 sq ft ballroom and 7,000 sq ft terrace. This new conference center can accommodate
groups up to 500 people, so it's perfect for Tampa Bay meetings, banquets, cocktail receptions and weddings.

Mainsail Suites Hotel & Conference Center is the first extended stay hotel in Florida that offers "true conference facilities”. Mainsail is an all-suite, full-service hotel that is conveniently located in the Westshore District which is only minutes away from Tampa International Airport.

While most extended stay brands are limited in their services, Mainsail provides comfort and convenience for all of their guests. Mainsail has one and two-bedroom suites with separate bedrooms and bathrooms, and they are all equipped with full-size kitchens.

Guests can relax and unwind while surfing the net, for free! That's right, complimentary high-speed Internet access for your convenience! Mainsail also offers free airport shuttle, free parking, room service, an on-site restaurant and lounge, recreational activities and much more.

Mainsail guests will have all of the benefits of an enhanced learning environment, all of the conveniences of a full-service hotel, and all of the comforts of a suite! To learn more about this property, please visit their web site at www.mainsailtampa.com.

Basketball season has tipped off!

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Josh Jones

Josh Jones here proud to say we are 1 month away from yet another prime time event taking place this December…the ESPN SEC/BIG EAST INVITATIONAL!

Tipping off Thursday, Dec. 10, at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa, DePaul will take on Mississippi State at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, followed by Syracuse vs. Florida at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN.

Fans who wish to attend this must-see doubleheader at St. Pete Times Forum can purchase tickets online at Ticketmaster.com or charge by phone by calling the St. Pete Times Forum box office at (800) 745-3000. Ticket prices are $40, $25 and $15.

Mississippi State kicks off the season #18 in the AP Top 25, and the Orangemen of Syracuse currently hold the #25 spot in the ESPN/USA Today Poll.

Florida and Syracuse are meeting for the third time in the last five years with each team having a victory (UF in 2005 and Syracuse in 2008). Syracuse leads the all-time series between the two schools, 2-1.

The Gators will be making their fifth appearance in the building since 2003. UF reached the Second Round of the 2003 NCAA Tournament at the St. Pete Times Forum, picked up non-conference wins in 2006 and 2007 and reached the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament at the building in March. Meanwhile, Mississippi State will make their return to Tampa for the first time since winning the 2009 SEC Tournament Championship.

For more information on the tournament, please visit www.secbigeastinvitational.com, and stay tuned for more Tampa Bay area events from your Tampa Bay team!

Charlie-PaLooza at the Seminole Hard Rock

Wednesday, November 11, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with some amazing Tampa Bay entertainment options for you! We just got this info in from our friends at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, so here it is:

Join Charlie Daniels, The Marshall Tucker Band, and other great country and rock acts on Dec. 5 from noon until 6p.m. for a free concert in the back lot of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

But wait, there’s more! This amazing free concert is actually the culmination of a full weekend of fun that starts on Thurs. Dec. 3 with The Charlie Daniels Charity Blackjack Tournament in the casino at 9 p.m.

Blackjack entry fee is $250 per player. The total guaranteed prize pool for players is $22,750; first place will pay $10,000. Tickets are available at the Hard Rock Retail Store or by phone: 813-627-7740. Space is limited with only 144 seats.

Tournament registration is from 5 - 8:30 p.m. on Dec. 3 outside the Poker Room at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tampa. Tournament play begins at 9 p.m.

On Friday, Dec. 4 The Charlie Daniels Celebrity Golf Tournament will be held at Buckhorn Springs Golf & Country Club, in Valrico. Entry is $500 including golf, two tickets to a pairing party and an awards dinner – both at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, a deluxe goodie bag, and two VIP passes for food and beverage at the Saturday concert. To participate, contact Tammy at (727) 243-8293.

Scheduled to appear on the Dallas Bull/Budweiser stage in the back lot of Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino along with The Charlie Daniels Band will be: The Marshall Tucker Band, Confederate Railroad, Lee Brice, Wiley Fox, Jason Young, N-Kahootz, and Suite Caroline.

Though the concert is free to the public, there are a limited number of VIP passes available for $50 that include a free meet and greet with Charlie Daniels and free food and beverages in the VIP tent. To purchase a VIP pass call Tammy at (727) 243-8293.

Also, from 3 p.m. – 5 p.m., fishing captains Keith & Monte from the vessel Wizard, as seen on the Discovery Channel’s show Deadliest Catch, will be on hand to sign autographs.

Following the concert, a Florida Championship Wrestling (FCW) tournament will be held in the Seminole Hard Rock back lot. FCW is the training facility for the WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment). WWE wrestlers will sign free autographs. Admission is $10 at the door.

Wow, I'm running out of space to talk about everything that's happening at one of the best Tampa Bay hotels there is. So, just head over to www.seminolehardrock.com to get more details...if you need them.

And keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay!

What's Happening Downtown Tampa

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 by Partner Pulse

Tampa Downtown Happenings

This week in downtown Tampa:

    * Hey pasta lovers, has the Tampa Convention Center got a deal for you! If you attend Tampa Bay Meetings or just have access to the Convention Center Tampa in downtown and just can’t get enough pasta, then make sure you are at the Convention Center Tampa today (11/09) and again on Tuesday, November 17th for the United Way Pasta Luncheon. This is an “all you can eat” event. For only $6.00 you can have as much pasta as you want and know that those carbs are going to a great cause. Click here for more information.

* Mayor Iorio invites you to join her at Cotanchobee/Fort Brooke Park on Tuesday (11/10) at 10:00 a.m. for an event that will honor our armed forces. This should make the Tampa Florida News and for details, click here.

* Veterans Day will be celebrated in downtown on Tuesday (11/10) in Joe Chillura Courthouse Square. Get details about this important event by clicking here.

    * Impromptu Players of Stageworks Theatre will present a Staged Reading of “The God of Isaac.” This is a hysterical comedy by James Sherman and directed by Andrea Graham. The event will take place on Saturday (11/14) from 6:30pm & 9:00pm at Dolce Vita Lounge, Channelside Cinemas (601 Channelside Dr). Tickets are a $25.00 Contribution for general seating or $35.00 Contribution for the reserved section. For tickets call Andrea Graham at (813) 784-6832 or click here. This is a benefit for Stageworks Outreach Programs for At Risk Kids

Also in November:

    * "Aurora Borealis III", Blake's Fine Arts Open House, will take place on November 17th from 6-8 p.m. The marching band will kick off the event at 6 p.m. sharp. This magical torch-lit event will feature strolling performers and musicians in the courtyard as well as choreographed performances on stage by harpists, actors, guitarist, singers and dancers. Journalism and creative writing students will showcase their talent through the spoken word and live broadcasts. Bronzed dancers will be positioned on pedestals as living statues in the courtyard. Video and visual art imagery will be projected on the outside of the building. The gallery and visual art studios will be open to showcase student talent with demonstrations in stained glass, jewelry, photography, printmaking and ceramics. The Fine Arts Faculty will be present in the theatre lobby to answer questions about the individual magnet programs. The Urban Teaching Academy will be available to answer questions. Prospective students and their parents are welcome. The event is free and open to the public! The school is located at 1701 North Boulevard in downtown Tampa. Come to "Aurora Borealis III" and enjoy all of the offerings that this downtown magnet school has to offer!

Ah, the holidays in Tampa Bay!

    * Come experience the innocence and charm of a Victorian Christmas. Escape the commercialism and stress of a modern Christmas and capture the warmth and joy of an old-fashioned holiday with your loved ones. The Henry B. Plant Museum presents the 28th annual Victorian Christmas Stroll from December 1st to 23rd, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm daily.

* "Light Up the Night with the Downtown Tampa Florida Attractions Association’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parades on Friday, December 4th and Friday, December 18th. Parades will begin at 6:30 PM. Come watch these festively decorated boats illuminate the sky and spread holiday cheer throughout Downtown’s Channel District. The Rough Riders will be accepting Teddy Bear donations during the parade and will be the boat to beat as they light up one of their best floats in honor of this holiday tradition!

The Tampa Downtown Partnership serves as the steward of downtown Tampa, cultivating public and private partnerships, and encouraging downtown’s physical and economic development. As a proactive leadership organization, we act as an advocate for the downtown community.

The Tampa Downtown Partnership fosters Tampa’s vibrant and diverse multi-use downtown neighborhoods and plays a key role in creating a 24-hour urban center where people can learn, live, work and play. Programs such as our Clean and Safe team and our transportation initiatives make accessing and navigating Tampa's downtown an easy and enjoyable experience.

As a membership organization, we are driven to serve the Tampa downtown business community and are empowered by what each member brings to our organization. Together, we strive to improve the collective downtown Tampa community, to be an active conduit of information and resources, to promote a shared vision for Tampa’s downtown, and create and implement the plans that support that vision.

Piano in Ybor Gets everyone Playing their own tune!

Monday, November 9, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone...Travis here with information about some REALLY cool Tampa Bay entertainment. "Piano's in Ybor" will take to the streets of historic Ybor City on Nov. 14 and last through Jan. 9, 2010.

Here's the info:
Decorated Street Pianos are appearing in cities across the world! Now there are pianos in Historic Ybor City! "Please Play Me!" is a creative interactive public art exhibit where you, the public, get to play the pianos!

The free fingering piano keys will be available during the festive holiday season and the 2 parades in Ybor City; the Santa Fest Dec. 5th and the Outback Bowl Parade on New Years Eve.
There'll be a PRESS Conference & Kick Off on Saturday, Nov 14th 2 PM at Centro Ybor in front of Muvico 20 Theatres. So, if you can make it by there, definitely do!

If you want to hear a little more about it, Preston Rudie with 10 Connects shot this great video as they were finishing the pianos - http://bit.ly/1pvoDA.

And, over 300 guests attended the Sneak Preview reception...take a look at the youtube video here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lK92NFg8r3A

So, get out there and have some fun playing the pianos! And keep checking back here for more things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events.

Jungle Jack Back at Busch

Monday, November 9, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

Considering Tampa Bay Attractions, Busch Gardens is always a wonderful place to visit if you are in Tampa for Tampa Bay Meetings or here to Golf Tampa Bay or just wanting to spend a day Shopping in Tampa Bay. Here are some special events to attend making Tampa Bay Attractions more exciting then ever!

Jungle Jack back at Busch

By WALT BELCHER

wbelcher@tampatrib.com

Published: November 7, 2009

TAMPA - Animal expert Jack Hanna is coming back to Busch Gardens this month to meet and greet families during four special events, including a Serengeti Night Safari.

Hanna, who used to tape one of his TV series at Busch Gardens, will make a special appearance at the Serengeti Night family sleepover Friday. He also will join guests for breakfast on Nov. 14 and 15, and will share animal facts and his travel tales during shows those same days in the theme park.

Hanna is best known as the star of the Emmy Award-winning television series "Jack Hanna's Into the Wild," in which he invites audiences to join him on his expeditions around the globe. The series airs at 10 a.m. Sundays on WTVT, Channel 13.

That series is produced in Tampa by Spectrum Productions. He was host of "Jack Hanna's Animal Adventures" which ran in syndication for 10 years.

Hanna, the former director of the Columbus (Ohio) Zoo, became a frequent guest on TV shows such as "Good Morning America" and "The Late Show with David Letterman."

Hanna also is the author of three books: "Passport into the Wild," "Romp, Stomp, Waddle Home!" and "Jungle Jack: My Wild Life."

Here are the events:

•Serengeti Night Safari featuring Jack Hanna is 6:30 to 9 p.m. Friday and 7:30 to 10 p.m.

Nov. 14. The two-hour experience includes a moonlit look at the nocturnal behaviors of hippos, lions and hyenas. It continues with a guided safari expedition across the Serengeti Plain, where guests can use night-vision monoculars and special filtered lighting to view exotic animals. The evening will end around a fire, where Hanna will share tales of his African adventures.

It also includes food in the exclusive Safari Club and costs $60 a person, with a discount available for Busch Gardens' Passport members. The tour is for ages 5 and older. Busch Gardens admission is not required or included. Visit BuschGardens.com or call 1-888-800-5447.

•The Family Sleepover featuring Jack Hanna is also Friday and Nov. 14, from 6 p.m. to 9 a.m. It includes behind-the-scenes access, interactive activities and an animal adventure hosted by Hanna. Guests will spend the night in Busch Gardens' Mzinga Lounge, a secure on-site dormitory and wake up to meet tigers in Jungala and eat a continental breakfast. Dinner, a T-shirt and water bottle are included. The sleepover is designed for families with elementary school-age children, and the cost is $78 a person or $68 for Passport members. To register, visit BuschGardens.com or call 1-877-BGT-CAMP.

•Meet Jack Hanna at Busch Gardens is from 11:30 a.m. and 1 p.m. Nov. 14 and 15 at the Moroccan Palace.

Hanna will talk about his world travels and educate animal lovers of all ages about the importance of wildlife conservation. All shows are included with a day's paid admission or any annual Passport. For tickets, visit BuschGardens.com or call 1-888-800-5447.

•Breakfast with Jack Hanna at 8:30 a.m. Nov. 14 and 15 lets you dine with the animal expert, then enjoy priority seating at Hanna's first show of the day. It costs $16.95 adults and $10.95 ages 9 and younger. Passport members receive a 10 percent discount. Visit BuschGardens.com or call 1-888-800-5447 to book your breakfast.

Reporter Walt Belcher can be reached at (813) 259-7654.

Building a Bath of Hot Chocolate

Monday, November 9, 2009 by Partner Pulse

While people attend Tampa Bay Meetings at the Convention Center Tampa and stay at Tampa Bay Hotels and Tampa Bay Resorts it is always interesting to see what is happpening in other parts of the hotel industry.

Even though a specialty line through any of these brands probably will not appear in the Westshore District you should be thankful that you won't have to build a bath of hot chocolate for a customer staying here in Tampa Bay!

Hotel Building Boom Focuses On Boutique Brands

by Curt Nickisch

Lost amid the hammering the hotel industry has been taking lately, there's a building boom. Big hotel chains like Hyatt, Marriott and Starwood are rolling out lines of specialty hotels.

What most hotels call the lobby, the new W Boston hotel calls its "living room." Plunk down in one of the leather pods, and you can admire the polished granite floors by leaning back and seeing them reflected in the mirror on the ceiling. In the evening, the staff turns the lights down and the music up.

W is part of a big hotel company called Starwood. This new location is the latest in a growing trend of so-called contemporary lifestyle hotels. Hyatt's line is called Andaz, and Marriott has Edition. The idea is to lure customers bored with mainstream hotels.

W's global brand manager, Eva Ziegler, takes her job very seriously.

"We want to provide access to a world of wow," she says. "Basically, help you to escape from the fears and from the [mundanity] of everyday life, and come into a world where everything is possible."

That might sound attractive, if you can afford it. The W's room rates in Boston start at around $200. Hotel staffers wear designer outfits and no name tags, because they're just as cool as you. They'll get you anything you want — as long as it's legal.

Hot Chocolate Bath

The hotel's general manager, Bill Bunce, remembers the customer who wanted a hot chocolate bath.

"And so to get all of that ready and get it in the tub and marshmallows floating — and they wanted it hot, too, which is even more difficult to do," he says. "But we were able to do it."

Of course, it also went on the customer's bill.

"That's the other key part to it, too," says Bunce, laughing. "Whether they want to pay the price. You could tell me whatever you want. I can deliver it, but there's a price attached to it."
The Market restaurant in W Boston is part of a newly opened boutique hotel that is owned and operated by Starwood Hotels & Resorts.
The Market restaurant at the W Boston hotel

The Market restaurant in W Boston is part of a newly opened boutique hotel that is owned and operated by Starwood Hotels & Resorts.

Reed Woodworth, a hotel industry analyst for PKF Consulting, says occupancy is down nationwide even as hotels have been cutting rates.

"It's a particularly difficult time to be opening up a luxury, high-end hotel in an economy that we've had for the past year now," he says.

Betting On The Future

But Woodworth says the hotel companies remember that before the recession, consumers were willing to pay about $80 more to stay in these newer, cooler hotels that don't feel like a chain — even though they are.

The hotel companies are betting on that demand coming back.

"W Hotels basically doesn't build hotels today for tomorrow," says Ziegler. "It builds hotels for the long term. So when the economy comes back, it also means we will own the upswing."

Woodworth says investing in new locations during a downturn can keep customers loyal and interested. But it's risky.

"It's still pretty much the wisdom in the hospitality world that this is going to be a rather slow climb out of this hole," he says. "So while they are riding the upswing as it were, it still looks to be a very gradual upswing over the next few years."

That means it could be a long time before these hotels make money. After all, people have gotten used to paying low rates for high-end hotels. It's going to take a while to convince consumers to pay the high prices they used to pay for these kinds of hotels — even with the lure of hot chocolate in the bathtub.

It's an AOPA Tampa Summit Giveaway...

Thursday, November 5, 2009 by Convention Sales

Greetings to all my AOPA peeps in town for the 2009 AOPA Aviation Summit which kicked off today at the Tampa Convention Center and Peter O. Knight Airport! Let me be the first to say that Tampa is grateful to have you guys here, and even more grateful to watch you spend your money in our community! Pardon me, that's just a little economic development humor!

We truly hope that today is the first day of what will be a Summit chock full of new experiences, events, education, and opportunities for all!

To make it just a bit more interesting, Jerm (That's me) is going to do one of his Twitter famous giveaways today especially for you! Yes I know what you are thinking... and yes it is very thoughtful of me and no other city has done this for you before, but hey, that's what we're about here in Tampa, creating memorable experiences for all of our attendees!

Now normally these giveaways are just trivia where I ask questions here on this blog and then ask for you to answer them on Twitter. But today I am in a creative mood, so we are gonna switch it up a bit, but first let me tell you what you are playing for!

I just happen to have some tickets with me to three of our awesome Tampa Florida attractions for the Florida Aquarium, Lowry Park Zoo, and Big Cat Rescue, and I am in the giving mood! Three lucky AOPA attendees or even exhibitors will be the lucky recipients of my new found generosity (two tickets for each)!

All you have to do is be paying attention to the crowd's at either Peter O. Knight Airport, of the Convention Center for a strapping 6'0 guy wearing a black and white striped polo, khaki pants with an IPhone in his hand!

Once I get on sight, at either the airport or convention center, I'll tweet my location and the games will begin! To win, just run up to me (don't run actually), show me your attendee or exhibitor badge, and say "Tampa is Awesome" and you have your pick of the three prizes! How sweet is that!

Its just that simple folks, so be on the lookout for me as I'll be there sometime between 1130 and 130 pm today! Okay, now stop reading this blog and pay attention to the session that your in and I will see you guys later!

p.s. be sure to be following us on Twitter at @VisitTampaBay.

Tampa Bay & Company Partner Extranet Features - Convention Calendar

Thursday, November 5, 2009 by Partner Pulse

Whether you are a Tampa Florida Attraction, in charge of Tampa Bay Shopping, a Tampa Bar or putting on Concerts in Tampa...as a partner of Tampa Bay & Company access to several useful Tampa Bay Marketing tools is only a click away. We hope these will help you reach out to those attending Tampa Bay Meetings at the Convention Center and elsewhere.

Tampa Bay & Company

Sales Booking Reports are updated monthly and the Tampa Bay & Company Convention Calendar is also avaliable through this site. There are two versions of the Tampa Bay & Company Convention Calendar: the first is a pdf version where you can sel

ect the desired date range and you can see information for each convention sorted by the date of arrival.

Another version of the convention calendar is in Microsoft Excel format. This allows you to merge the Tampa Bay Meetings Lead Contact with your Tampa Bay Marketing material giving you direct access to those planners visitting Tampa Bay in the near future.

The Excel version of the Convention Calendar includes a field with the date the Tampa Bay Meeting became definite in Tampa Bay. If you reach out to these contacts on a regular basis you can sort the document on the Date Booked field and only reach out to those contacts with Tampa Bay Meetings booked since you last sent out Tampa Bay Marketing material.

You will need your individual username and password to login to the Tampa Bay & Company Partner Extranet and access the Tampa Bay & Company Convention Calendar. If you do not have a login contact Tampa Bay & Company Marketing Analyst Julie Zambos at jazambos@visittampabay.com or call 813-342-4068 or Tampa Bay & Company Partnership Sales Manager Lauren Bowles at lbowles@visittampabay.com or call 813-342-4085.

See below for detailed instructions on other benefits available to you within the Tampa Bay & Company Partner Extranet:

Using the Tampa Bay & Company Website
We encourage you to explore our Web site, www.VisitTampaBay.com, and utilize all of the resources available to you through the Web site.

To access Tampa Bay & Company’s Partners Only section:
• www.VisitTampaBay.com/Partners and click on “Partners Only”.
• Log in using your assigned username and password. If you have not received a username and password, please contact Tampa Bay & Company Marketing Analyst Julie Zambos at jazambos@visittampabay.com or call 813-342-4068 or Tampa Bay & Company Partnership Sales Manager Lauren Bowles at LBowles@VisitTampaBay.com or call (813)342‐4085.

To access the Tampa Bay & Company Meetings Convention Calendar:
• Log in to the “Partners Only” section of our website, www.VisitTampaBay.com/partners.
• Once logged in, a list of options appears on the main page as well as the left sidebar. Click on “Convention Calendar” to view upcoming Tampa Bay Community Events, Tampa Bay Conventions, Tampa Bay Meetings, etc.

To access and post events to the Tampa Bay & Company Calendar of Events:
• Log in to the “Partners Only” section of our website.
• Once logged in, you will see a link that says “Submit Events.” Click on this link and enter your event info and click “Save.”

To post coupons/special offers for Tampa Bay Area Visitors, Meeting Planners and/or Tampa Bay & Company Partners only:
• Log in to the “Partners Only” section of our website.
• Once logged in, you will see a link on the main page that says “Add/Edit/Remove Coupons.”
• To submit a new coupon, click on “add coupon” Enter your information and click “Save.”
• Your coupon will then appear as pending until our staff approves the coupon.
• To edit your coupon, click on the coupon title and click “Save.”

To view Tampa Bay Community Calendar of Events and Tampa Bay & Company Partner coupons:
• For visitor coupons, click “Visitors” and click on “Hot Deals” or “Calendar of Events.”
• For meeting planner coupons, click on “Meeting Planners” and click on “Meeting Planner Hot Deals.”
• For partner coupons, log in to the “Partners Only” section of our website and click on “Partner Coupons.”

To view tips from the Tampa Bay & Company Marketing team:
• Log in to the "Partners Only" section of our website.
• Once logged in click "Marketing Tools" to the left.
• Here you will access marketing tools, research and publications.

To view and/or update your profile:
• Log in to the “Partners Only” section of our website.
• Once logged in click on “View Profile.”
• Here you will be able to view your listings and contacts.
• ONLY the primary contact has access to update your account.

To retrieve various Tampa Bay & Company Sales Booking Reports, Action Plans and information about the Tampa Bay Convention and Tourism industry:
• Log in to the “Partners Only” section of our website.
• Once logged in, a list of options appears on the left sidebar. Click on “Sales” for various options.

Spots Available for Raw Unity Power Lifting Championship

Thursday, November 5, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hi all...Travis back for some Tampa Bay entertainment news for all of you sports and lifting fans out there.

You may have heard, but the Raw Unity Power Lifting Championship is coming to town, and if you haven't heard, just click here to read the previous post from the Tampa Bay Sports guys!

Well, they have 5 spots available in the female division, 6 spots available in the heavyweight division, 8 spots available in the bench only division and 8 spots available in the deadlift only division.

So, if you are interested and meet the lifting requirements, get signed up soon!

If you are interested in competing at Raw Unity then please check out the qualifying totals to see if you qualify for the meet...just click here.

If you have not qualified and would like to apply for a spot, then simply send a “lifter resume” to erictalmant@yahoo.com. Please include videos or links to videos if you would like to improve your chances.

Also, if you aren't a "lifter" but you know some who may be interested, pass the word to any and all lifters that may be interested.

The roster that has been assembled is arguably one of the best that the sport of powerlifting has seen in a long time.

If you want to see the current roster,just click here.

Oh, and you can also attend if you just want to see the action. I will definitely be heading out to see this one!

Until then, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay Events, Production Capabilities and Culture All in One Place

Wednesday, November 4, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

Looking for Tampa Bay Community Information? One place to peruse is one of the Tampa Bay Radio Stations 89.7 WUSF. Their broadcasts include All Things Considered, Florida Matters and University Beats with issues affecting anyone in Tampa Bay, Florida and surrounding areas. Their website contains Tampa Bay News, happenings at Tampa Bay Attractions, Tampa Bay Meetings at the Convention Center Tampa and wonderful Florida Stories.

Why bother with Shopping in Tampa Bay this weekend? Who wants to Golf Tampa Bay or spend all weekend at a Tampa Bay Area Beach when there are so many Tampa Bay cultural events to expand your mind all weekend!

For example the Dali Museum has a calendar listing for this Saturday. Here is the information: Bring your kids to the Dalí Museum for breakfast! On November 7, enjoy a family-friendly, interactive tour through the galleries before it opens to the public, and then enjoy a tasty breakfast buffet as well as arts and crafts. This is one of the Museum’s most popular programs. To register and pre-pay, please call (727) 823-3767 ext. 3024 or email Bethany Mead, Education Coordinator: bmead@thedali.org

Event Category:Kids & Family
Price:General admission is $15 per parent, $10 per child, $20 all others.
Dates and Times:November 7, 9:30AM
Add to my calendar

Venue:Salvador Dalí Museum
Address:1000 Third Street South
City:St. Petersburg State:FL Zip Code:33701-4901
Country:United States
Telephone:727-823-3767
Email: info@salvadordalimuseum.org

IntellisMedia is a division of WUSF Public Broadcasting. Using Tampa Bay Radio Stations WUSF's wealth of experienced media, communications, engineering and production professionals and facilities, we provide customized communications, production and technology services to clients in the corporate, government, education and non-profit sectors.

A New Job Opening...Yes Please

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Partner Pulse

So like everyone else I know right now, I have a few very good friends looking for work in the Tampa Bay market. It’s a scary time right now and it’s good to keep up on what jobs in the Tampa Bay Meetings market are available…especially in the Tampa, FL hospitality industry.

I check the normal online places on a regular basis for jobs at Tampa Bay Resorts or at the Convention Center Tampa but recently I came across a site that was not so expected.

Did you guys know that Tampa Bay & Company has a page that lists job openings for those of us in hospitality. It was so cool to already have jobs narrowed down and not have to search through page after page of ridiculous “work from home” scheme jobs before I got to something legitimate. There are listings from Tampa Bay Hotels and even some Tampa Bay Resorts.

There are several jobs at hotels for people with experience in sales and even jobs through the Hillsborough County Bar Association. You may be surprised by the variety of listings through Tampa Bay & Company. I knew they had a broad base of Tampa Bay Partners but I did not realize they could post jobs too.

If nothing else, add the link to your regular search and see what other Tampa Bay Hotels, Resorts or Attractions are looking to fill positions. You never know when you may find that perfect job for a good friend. Or even better…that perfect job just for you.

Tampa Bay Lightning get "Unplugged" next week

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with some Tampa Bay entertainment that is a must-see! The Tampa Bay Lightning and its players will host their second “Lightning Unplugged” event of the season on Tuesday, Nov. 10 from 6-8 p.m.

It all happens in Center Court at The Shops at Wiregrass located in Wesley Chapel.

For those who have not heard of these series, “Unplugged” is a new series of fan friendly events in the Tampa Bay community hosted by former Lightning player and 2004 Stanley Cup Champion Chris Dingman.

It offers fans a chance to meet the Lightning players and ask them questions in an open, casual, barrier-free environment. This event will feature perennial NHL All-Star Martin St. Louis and new Lightning goaltender Antero Niittymaki joining Dingman at The Shops at Wiregrass.

Also at the mall will be the Lightning Fan Interactive Truck, ThunderBug and the Lightning Girls. There will also be a merchandise tent, a ticket booth where fans can purchase tickets to upcoming Lightning games and Wiregrass’ holiday ice rink will be open to fans for skating.

Fans in attendance will also have the opportunity to enter to win great prizes. The entrance to the event will be on Piazza Ave. near GrillSmith New American Grill. Following “Unplugged” there will be a post-event party located at The Brass Tap (just south of Center Court on Piazza Ave.). The party will begin immediately following the event and will feature great drink specials (for those of us old enough to attend).

And there'll be more of these Tampa Bay area events, so Lightning fans should look for regular announcements detailing the future stops of “Unplugged” throughout the 2009-10 season. As always, you are encouraged to visit www.tampabaylightning.com to get more details about these happening.

As always, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay!

Jerm Goes to Zoo Boo with the Carjavals...

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

So this past weekend was Halloween of course, and normally my Halloweens are reserved for me siting on the couch and making every effort to not answer the door when trick or treaters come by. Yes I know that sounds awful, but I truly have never gotten into the whole trick or treat, dress up in a costume deal I guess. Yes I know what you are thinking... what a party pooper!

Well this year I decided to switch it up a bit and spend it with my friends the Carvajals and their two little girls at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo for the annual Zoo Boo event.

We got there around 7pm Friday night and it was already packed with pint sized trick or treaters decked out in their scariest costumes. This year’s spook-tacular event featured 12 frightfully fun attractions. Little ones could walk into a world of dazzling lights and friendly Halloween scenes at Little Tyke Boo House, join Frankenstein and friends at his foam party, meet creepy crawling creatures and more.

We pretty much hit everything, and by the end of the night, those two little girls had me dragging tired and hungry! Luckily for us though, the fine folks from Domino's were outside offering up free pizza slices.

This was really a cool event, as basically the entire park is decked out in Halloween garb, with some of the animals still on display. for the kiddies as well as the grown-ups to interact with. The girls got to touch the Manatees, see a baby version of Ivan the Blogging Owl.

We heard that there was a cool animal magic show back at the Safari Lodge, but didn't get a chance to make it back there...bummer, but it definitely gives us something to look forward to next year. If you have never been before, Zoo Boo is a must for any family, or boring friend of the family guy like myself!

That's all for now, stay tuned throughout the week as we will be giving you updates for one of our favorite Tampa Bay area events this weekend at the Annual ZooFari festival at Lowry Park Zoo as well! Come back and visit us soon as well for cool kid friendly things to do in Tampa Bay!