Conventions 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!

Tampa needs your vote!  As part of their Destination USA feature, CNN Travel is pitting the two political convention cities against each other – Tampa for the Republican National Convention and Charlotte for the Democratic National Convention.  

It’s time to get creative and tell your story about Tampa!  The winner will be selected based on the posts made in favor of each city. You can show the judges why Tampa deserves the title by submitting a photo, video or short message.

We all know Tampa is a great place to live, work, and play, and now it’s time to show the world.  You can submit your vote by clicking here.

That's all for now, but get to voting and be sure to check back for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay area events!

It's almost here folks! What you ask? Well just the industry’s only exclusive meeting of CMPs that's what!

If you hadn't heard, or haven't yet registered, then I suggest you hurry up and do so! The CIC CMP Conclave is a unique event for certificants who wish to contribute to their profession.

This year's Conclave provides many opportunities for CMPs to build relationships and partner with other meeting professionals. CMPs also enhance their professional expertise by participating in exam development, attending educational sessions and networking with fellow CMPs.

Most importantly, this year's conference is right here in our own back yard in Tampa Bay at the beautiful Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina! How awesome is the Waterside you ask? Well the only way to truly tell you is to give you the top five reasons you'll love this place!

5. Scenery - Views don't get much better than this folks as the Waterside is nestled nicely along the channel riverwalk with some of Tampa Bay's most breathtaking views!

4. Ultimate Relaxation - Had a long day of meetings and sessions? For ultimate relaxation, try the spa, jacuzzi, or rooftop pool

3. Dining - You don't even have to leave the hotel to enjoy world class dining at places like Cafe Waterside, Champions Sports Bar, or Il Terrazzo. IF you feel the need to leave the hotel then have no fear as Jackson's Bistro Bar & Sushi, Cafe DuFrain, and the Channelside District are a short walk or Trolley ride away!

2. Technology - Well this is the nerd in me coming out a bit, but these days when you are away from the office, the one thing you need is reliable connectivity in your room and throughout the property!

1. Comfort - At the end of the day, you'll be spending a ton of time in your room sleeping and resting from the awesome day you just had in Tampa Bay! Here's a list of some of the in room amenities that'll make it feel just like home!

Well folks, that's all for now, but keep checking back as we'll be updating you on a regular basis about Tampa Bay meetings and fun things to in Tampa Bay for CMP Conclave!

It's Linda Mummert here with more exciting news about an upcoming convention in 2014.

Tampa Bay & Company is excited to announce that the destination will welcome Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 2014 for its Southern Region Conference.  Over 3,000 attendees are expected to gather for the conference, producing over 3,000 hotel room nights and $1.7 million on delegate spending.  

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world. A sisterhood of more than 200,000 predominately Black college educated women, the Sorority currently has over 900 chapters located in the United States, England, Japan (Tokyo and Okinawa), Germany, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Bahamas and the Republic of Korea.

The Southern Region was formed in 1926 at the 8th National Convention of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.  The Southern Region holds the distinction of being the largest of the seven regions of the Sorority, with over 200 chapters spread across the diverse area that is Alabama, the Bahamas, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee. For more information about Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. visit www.deltasigmatheta.org.  

Well that's all for now.  Stay tuned for more Tampa Bay conventions news.

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!

The Patel Conservatory’s NGB, Next Generation Ballet, dancers have been given the opportunity to perform a group piece at the upcoming YAGP Gala at the David A. Koch Theatre at Lincoln Center in New York City on April 27, 2012.  The dancers received this honor by winning the Outstanding School Award at last year’s Youth America Grand Prix Final.

This is a very unique and amazing opportunity that the dancers will get to take part in, performing with some of the world’s top ballet companies! The YAGP Gala is sold out annually, featuring international ballet stars from around the world. The NGB dancers will be performing Shostakovich Suite, choreographed by Richard Cook, and staged by Stark.

This Thursday, April 19th the dancers will be giving a sneak preview to local ballet supporters, staff and press. This will take place at the Patel Conservatory at 6:30 p.m. in room 302. There will also be a Meet & Greet with the dancers after the performance is completed.

Please come out and support this amazing accomplishment!  And head over to the Patel Conservatory's website for more information - http://www.patelconservatory.org/. 

We'll see you back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, as well as other Tampa Bay area events.

Hey Tampa! The Frozen Four is finally here, welcome to college hockey’s biggest stage! Kristin here to give you a preview of the semi- final games that will be taking place on April 5th right in our backyard at the Tampa Bay Times Forum. 

The four teams that punched their tickets to Tampa are Ferris State University of Big Rapids Michigan, Union College of Schenectady New York, Boston College, and the University of Minnesota.

Ferris State will be taking on Union College on Thursday April 5th at 4:30 pm ET. The game will be broadcasted on ESPNU.  Ferris State took out Denver 2-1, and Cornell 2-1 to reach the semi- final game, as Union defeated Michigan State3-1, and University of Massachusetts Lowell 4-2.  Both schools have never gone this far, making the match up a Cinderella story for the survivor.

The second game of the semi- finals will be April 5th at 8: 00 pm ET. with the meeting of two powerhouse programs, top seeded Boston College, and the Minnesota Golden Gophers. Boston College was the national champion in 2010, returning to take the crown. They defeated Air Force 4-0, and Minnesota Duluth 4-0 in the quarterfinals. Minnesota knocked out Boston University 7-3, and North Dakota 5-2. The game will be broadcasted live on ESPN2.

Stay posted for more Tampa Bay sports updates on the final game which will take place April 7.
 

Vote for our amazing partners for the 2012 BizBash Florida Readers' Choice Awards!

• Warren Dietel, Puff 'n Stuff Catering for Caterer of the Year
• Alyssa Rhoads, Tampa Bay Business Journal for Corporate Event Planner of the Year
• Shapeology, Dorene Giacin Collier for Entertainment Act of the Year
• Amanda Allen, MMD Events,Vanessa Lopez, Hello Florida! AND Danielle Seaberg, Grand Events of Florida, LLC for Event Designer of the Year
• Maria Hayworth, Hayworth Creative Public Relations for PR Professional of the Year
• Brooke Palmer, r.s.b.p. Events for Social Event Planner of the Year
• Jason Carroll, The Florida Aquarium for Venue Manager of the Year

Voting closes on Sunday, April 15, at 11:59 p.m., and the winners will be announced at the BizBash Florida Expo & Awards at the Fort Lauderdale Convention Center on April 18. To cast your vote, go to http://www.bizbash.com/flvotes.

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!

Hey there College Hockey fans! We're one week away from the puck dropping at the Tampa Bay Times Forum for the 2012 NCAA Frozen Four Hockey Championships in Tampa Bay!

I hope that all you fans are as excited as we are here in Tampa Bay to host all you Golden Gopher, Eagle, Bulldog, and Dutchmen fans! Here is a list of the fan hotels so you can go ahead and get to booking your stay in Tampa Bay!

These rates are subject to change and will fill up fast so be sure to contact the hotel first to confirm! When making your reservations, be sure to mention the promo code “College Hockey Fan Housing” to receive discounted rate. All hotel rates listed below do not include tax rate of 12% (subject to change without notice).

For information on these properties, visit: http://www.visittampabay.com/visitors/hotels/ visit our website for a comprehensive listing!

Downtown Accommodations (approx. 1 mile from Forum)

Courtyard by Marriott Downtown Tampa
102 E Cass St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 229-1100
Rate: $199.00

Howard Johnson Plaza Downtown
111 W Fortune St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 223-1351
Rate: $99.00

Residence Inn by Marriott Downtown Tampa
101 East Tyler St. Tampa, FL 33602
(813) 221-4224
Rate: $219.00

Westshore/Airport Accommodations

Renaissance Tampa Hotel International Plaza
4200 Jim Walter Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 877-9200
Rate: $144.00

Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay
2900 Bayport Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 874-1234
Rate: $129.00 - $179.00

Intercontinental Tampa
4860 W Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 286-4400
Rate: $134.00

Marriott Tampa Westshore
1001 N. Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 287-2555
Rate: $185.00

The Westin Tampa Bay
7627 Courtney Campbell Cswy. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 281-0000
Rate: $145.00 - $185.00

Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore
5303 W Kennedy Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 289-1950
Rate: $129.00 - $139.00

Doubletree Hotel Tampa Airport Westshore
4500 W. Cypress St. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 879-4800
Rate: $89.00

Ramada Tampa Airport Westshore Hotel
1200 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 282-3636
Rate: $79.00

Embassy Suites Hotel Tampa Westshore
555 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 875-1555
Rate: $169.00 - $189.00
    Mainsail Suites Hotel and Conference Center
5108 Eisenhower Blvd. Tampa, FL 33634
(813) 243-2600
Rate: $129.00 - $149.00

Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore
2225 N Lois Ave. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 877-6688
Rate: $99.00 - $109.00

Wyndham Tampa Westshore
700 N Westshore Blvd. Tampa, FL 33609
(813) 289-8200
Rate: $134.00

Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport Westshore
4400 West Cypress Street, Tampa, Florida 33607
813.357.6126
Rate: $99.00

Doubletree Guest Suites Tampa Bay
3050 N Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 888-8800
Rate: $129.00 - $169.00

Chase Waterfront Suite Hotel
3075 North Rocky Point Drive East, Tampa Florida 33607
(813) 281-5677
Rate: $129.00 - $199.00

Hyatt Place Tampa Westshore
4811 W Main St. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 282-1037
Rate: $134.00 - $154.00

Emerald Greens Golf Resort
13941 Clubhouse Dr. Tampa, FL 33618
(813) 961-9400
Rate: $209.00

Sailport Waterfront Suites
2506 N Rocky Point Dr. Tampa, FL 33607
(813) 281-9599
Rate: $129.00

That's all for now, but keep checking back with us for more College Hockey related updates!

Its Linda Mummert here with exciting news about our Convention Sales Department.
Tampa Bay & Company has announced two staff promotions: Alex Kaptzan will fill the role of Vice President of Convention Sales and Services, and Holly Laverentz will now serve as National Sales Manager.  

“Alex has been a valuable asset of this team for over six years and has helped lead the convention sales and services team to new levels,” stated President/CEO of Tampa Bay & Company Kelly Miller.  “Additionally, Holly’s work on the services team for nearly a decade has prepared her for her new role and will translate well with the meeting planners and groups she will work with.”

In his new role as Vice President of Convention Sales and Services, Alex will be responsible for leading the company’s Tampa-based convention sales and convention services teams, as well as the company’s satellite representatives in Washington, D.C. and Chicago, Ill.  

Alex joined the Tampa Bay & Company sales team in 2006 as the Director of Convention Sales.  Prior to joining Tampa Bay & Company, Alex served as the Director of Sales as the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina for over five years.  

In her new role as National Sales Manager, Holly Laverentz will oversee the Small Meetings Market for Tampa Bay & Company.  Holly previously served as Senior Housing Manager and has been with the company for nearly 10 years.  Prior to joining Tampa Bay & Company Holly served as the Catering Convention Services Manager at the Hyatt Regency Tampa.  

Congratulations to both Alex and Holly!!  Well, it is over and out for now.  Stay tune for more exciting Tampa Bay Conventions news.

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!

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.

Hey Tampa! In case you didn’t know, the NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Championship is coming to Tampa. Oh, and it’s the Frozen Four which means the final victor will be announced right here. The format of this tournament is slightly different than the March Madness we all know and love.

The NCAA Division I Men’s Ice Hockey Committee has selected 16 teams to enter the tournament. The four regional winners advance to the Men’s Frozen Four, and the entire championship uses a single elimination format. The five conference champions are automatically qualified and the remainder of the field is selected at large.

The 16 teams that qualified (in random order) are as follows;

Union (New York), Michigan State, Miami (Ohio), Massachusetts – Lowell, Ferris State, Denver, Michigan, Cornell, North Dakota, Western Michigan, Minnesota, Boston University, Boston College, Air Force, Minnesota Duluth, and Maine. After the regional finals are played the finals (Frozen Four) will be in Tampa on April 5 and 7th at the Tampa Bay Times Forum.  

What a unique and exciting event coming up in Tampa! That’s all for now but check in later for more things to do in Tampa Bay!

Tampa will welcome the International Association of Dental Research (IADR) this week for the 2012 AADR/CADR Annual Meeting & Exhibition, taking place at the Tampa Convention Center from March 21-24.  The American Association for Dental Research (AADR) and Canadian Association for Dental Research (CADR) are both divisions of the IADR.  

The event will mark the 41st Annual Meeting & Exhibition of the AADR and the 36th Annual Meeting of the CADR.  Approximately 3,000 delegates will gather in downtown Tampa for the annual event, producing over 6,000 hotel room nights in Tampa Bay.  

This year’s event will provide educational programming, networking sessions, awards ceremonies and receptions, hands-on workshops, panel discussions, mentoring sessions and much more.  The AADR is a non-profit organization with more than 3,900 members whose mission is to advance research and increase knowledge for the improvement of oral health, support and represent the oral health research community, and facilitate the communication and application of research findings.

Please join us in welcoming this group, and until the next time ... THINK TAMPA and stay tuned in for more  meetings and conventions updates!

The focus of the Convention Sales team of Tampa Bay & Company is to bring conventions and Tampa Bay meetings to Tampa Bay to create positive economic impact for Hillsborough County.

LInda Mummert here with a Convention Sales update!

From Feb. 29-March 1, Tampa Bay & Company representatives and its partners conducted a successful sales mission in Chicago, one of its top feeder markets.  Five Tampa Bay & Company partners joined Regional Account Executive Jeff Gassaway , National Sales Manager Amy Trautman and Director of Convention Sales Alex Kaptzan for group sales calls and two client event functions.  

Team Tampa Bay made group presentations to Smith Bucklin, American Bar Association, Experient and Association Management Center.  Each organization either has met or will be meeting in Tampa Bay, generating hotel room nights and positive economic impact for the destination.  

In addition to the group calls, the team hosted a reception at EPIC restaurant in downtown Chicago and a luncheon at Gibsons restaurant in the Chicago suburbs. Both functions were a huge hit with our clients. 

Till next time, it's over and out, and stay tuned in for more updates on Tampa Bay meetings!

Julia here again with some great news about a convention in town.

The Florida State Thespian Society (FSTS) arrived in Tampa on Tuesday and will be here until Sunday for their 2012 Annual Festival which is taking place at the Tampa Convention Center.  The FSTS Annual Festival has been held here in Tampa for over 10 years. is considered one of the largest theater festivals in the country.

Approximately 2,500 thespians will participate in the Festival, producing over 6,200 hotel room nights and $2.1 million in delegate spending.  The FSTS is considered one of the largest theater festivals in the country and is committed to presenting the very best work from high schools across the state of Florida.  For more information regarding FSTS, please click here.

Please join us in welcoming this group, as well as all meetings and conventions, to the Tampa Bay area! 

Good eventing folks! Wanted to drop by and tell you a little about one of the most awesome meeting and event spaces in the Tampa Bay area!

Located in downtown St. Petersburg, NOVA 535 is modern art gallery meets swanky lounge and world-class event venue. 

It is a meticulously renovated building with original 1920 red clay block and brick walls.  This venue is an awesome place to hold your next event!

NOVA 535 features the Main Gallery, upstairs VIP areas, antique brick courtyard with bamboo garden and not to mention all of the high-end amenities that they offer.  

This 7,000 square foot venue is the perfect location for the smallest of events up to your next party for 800 of your closest friends.  Have a favorite caterer?  No problem - NOVA 535 allows outside catering!  

What about accolades you ask?  NOVA 535 has won many awards, but most notably “Voted Best Place to Get Married” by Creative Loafing and “Top 10 Best Restrooms in America” by Cintas Corporation.  Those are some pretty cool honors if I do say so myself!  

For additional information call (727) 821-6682 or visit www.NOVA535.com. That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on Tampa Bay meetings space!
 

Hi everyone.  Travis here with some delicious information about dining in Tampa Bay.  For those of you who have been to Season's 52, you know how amazing it is.  And if you haven't been, put it on your list of things to do as soon as possible! 

Season's 52 will be launching their new Spring menu on March 20, which means you'll have some great new options to choose from.  We just got this info directly from them, so we're sending it to you:

Known for its seasonally inspired menus and fresh approach to dining, Seasons 52 meets the demands of today’s culinary-savvy consumer, offering a complete dining experience with great tasting foods and positive lifestyle benefits – a concept that is “right for the times.” 

“During the spring, farmers’ markets and grocers are full of fresh, vibrant produce such as rainbow carrots and vine-ripened tomatoes,” said Cliff Pleau, Senior Director of Culinary at Seasons 52.  “We are inspired by these bright spring flavors to create memorable dishes that excite the palate. By pairing them with fresh foods, such as Columbia River Steelhead Trout, and using natural cooking techniques like wood-fire grilling, Seasons 52’s menu delivers flavorful, thoughtfully-prepared dishes for spring.”

Guests will delight in new spring menu items including:
• Artichoke & Goat Cheese Flatbread – with leaf spinach, balsamic onion and roasted peppers
• Artichoke-Stuffed Artichoke Leaves – with organic arugula, Parmesan cheese and balsamic glaze
• Tomato & Haas Avocado Salad – with organic arugula, balsamic glaze and grilled bruschetta
• Columbia River Steelhead Trout – with spring vegetables, basmati rice and lemongrass sauce
• Spicy Snow Peas & Shiitake Mushrooms – with roasted almonds
• Lamb T-bone Chops – with asparagus, truffle mashed potatoes and red wine glaze
• Tiger Shrimp Penne Pasta – with spring asparagus and oyster mushrooms in a light lemon-basil sauce

In addition, two new cocktails will be featured on the spring menu – Strawberry Kir Royal (Fresh Strawberry-Infused Prairie Organic Vodka, Organic Agave Nectar and Zardetto Prosecco) and Strawberry Basil Fusion (Fresh Strawberry-Infused Prairie Organic Vodka, Fresh Basil, and Organic Agave Nectar). 

Master Sommelier George Miliotes has also updated his “Drink These Before They Become Famous” list, a handpicked selection of must-try wines for the season.  This season’s selections include:
• Aveleda Vinho Verde, Portugal ’10/’11 – Crisp and light with just a hint of sweetness and sparkle, this varietal it is the perfect aperitif wine to enjoy with an assortment of flatbreads.
• Lioco Indica Rosé, Mendocino ’11 – A totally natural wine with lovely aromas and flavors of ripe, red raspberries and strawberries and a pleasantly dry finish; goes with just about everything on the menu.
• Zardetto Prosecco, Treviso NV – Everyone loves Prosecco! Produced in the northeast of Italy, this is one of the finest sparkling wines and tastes excellent alone or with a dash of fruit juice. 
• Botani Moscatel, Sierras de Málaga ’10 – Neither sweet nor dry, this Spanish wine is packed with fruit flavors and a round finish.  It pairs beautifully with white fish or shellfish.
• Allegrini Palazzo della Torre Corvina Veronese ’08/’09 – Supercharged with a second fermentation from dried grapes, this wine is medium bodied but with a long and potent red fruit finish – a perfect accompaniment to any meat dish, from pork to lamb.

Seasons 52 changes the menu four times a year with weekly fresh features to truly capture the flavors of the season. Each valued guest can be guaranteed the highest quality fresh food, prepared without compromising great taste or a rich and complete dining experience. Nothing on the menu is more than 475 calories, from the signature flatbreads and appetizers, to all entrees and its popular mini indulgence desserts.

Now, I don't know about you, but my mouth is already watering.  Like I said, this is a great place to go get some amazing food, so make sure you stop by.  If you've been there before, let us know what you thought! 

We'll see you back here for more dining information, not to mention great things to do in Tampa Bay!