Shopping in Tampa Bay

Hey Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know what is going on around the area this weekend. If you are looking for something fun to do, you have come to the right place!

Carnival Couture - August 14, 2010
The Ritz Ybor presents a captivating collection of Tampa Bay's most provocative, show-stopping performers from the wild and sexy to the graceful and powerful.
Venue: The Ritz Ybor, Tampa, FL
Time: 7:00p

Thai One On For the Tigers- August 14, 2010
Come spend a wonderful evening and support the tigers and other animals at Elmira's Wildlife Sanctuary while we celebrate the birthdays of our two youngest tigers, Cort and Lexi! Admission includes:* Authentic Thai Dinner* One year membership to Elmira's* Live music from Code Blues Band* A twilight tour of the animal's sanctuaryTickets are $25 in advance, $30 at the door. Check out http://www.elmiraswildlife.org/ for more info!
Address: 13910 Seminole Trail, Wimauma, FL 33598
Times: 4-8 pm
Admission: $25 in advance, $30 at the door

Dance World's Back-To-School Health, Fun and Fitness Expo- August 14, 2010
Dance World Announces Health, Fun & Fitness EXPO Tampa, FL – August 5, 2010. Dance World will hold a FREE back-to-school Health, Fun and Fitness Expo on Saturday, August 14 from 12:00 PM – 5:00 PM at the University Mall, 2200 East Fowler Avenue (located on 2nd level, parking garage food court entrance, near movie theaters). Free health screenings will be given including BMI, cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar screenings. Additionally, there will be give-aways, entertainment and healthy food samples. This event will feature interactive demonstrations on “How to Eliminate Pain, Stress and the Effects of Aging” by internationally-renowned expert Dr. Ramon Nunez. Entertainment will include a salsa show, free dance lessons and performances by professional competitive dancers. A special musical performance will be given by singer-model-actress-TV host Ann Poonkasem aka Ann P. www.annponline.com. Sponsorships and vendor tables are available. A portion of the proceeds will benefit the Faces of Courage Foundation, Inc., a charity that helps children with cancer. www.facesofcourage.org Come join in the fun and dance for a better world. About Dance World Dance World is a full service dance fitness studio featuring a large selection of popular dances from Salsa to Hip Hop with professional instructors. A fun and hip alternative to the gym, dance fitness combines the benefits of exercise with the fun of dance and music. Dance world offers a full array of dance fitness programs, including weekly classes, children’s lessons, corporate events, work-life programs, special events and health-wellness programs. No contracts, no monthly fees, student discounts. HABLAMOS ESPANOL. For more information, visit www.DanceWorldTampa.com.
Address: 2200 East Fowler Avenue, Tampa, FL 33612
Times: 12pm - 5pm
Admission: FREE

Tampa Bay Storm Playoffs vs. Orlando Predators – August 14, 2010
The number three (#3) seed Tampa Bay Storm will host the number four (#4) seed Orlando Predators in the American Conference Championship Game Saturday, August 14 at the St. Pete Times Forum with kickoff at 7:30pm.  The winner goes on to the ArenaBowl!
 
Don’t miss the American Conference Final with individual game tickets starting at $15.
 
PREGAME FESTIVITIES BEGIN AT 4:30 PM!
Storm players walk the red carpet & greet fans!
Kids Activities, games, arts and crafts & Live Music!
$3 Draft Specials at Shots & Free Hot Dogs on Plaza (4:30pm – 5:30pm)
Venue: St. Pete Times Forum
Time: 4:30pm


Rocky Horror Picture Show Live – August 14-15, 2010
"Rocky Horror Picture Show" will be performed by a local live cast of The Cheap Little Punks at the Tampa Pitcher Show. The show is preformed every other weekend on Friday and Saturday nights. The theater offers a full liquor bar and a full menu.
Time: Sat- 11:30pm, Sun- 2:30p
Venue: Tampa Pitcher Show


"Strolling In A Perfect Paradise" – August 14, 2010
The Henry B. Plant Museum presents "Strolling In A Perfect Paradise." The gardens of the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel were touted as the most exotic in the country. This exhibit will showcase the splendor of the gardens within the context of landscape design in the 19th century. Oversized projected images will give guests the sense of truly experiencing the once-magnificent grounds. It will also feature historic images from brochures, newspapers, negative slides, and photographs, along with original decorative pieces and, in the current garden, historic garden markers.
Time: 10:00a to 5:00p
Venue:  Henry B. Plant Museum
Price: adults $10, seniors 65 and older and students $7, children 4-12 $5

"Obscured by Time: The Magic of Florida" – August 14, 2010
Tampa Bay History Center presents the exhibition "Obscured by Time: The Magic of Florida," featuring the art of Hermann Trappman. The exhibit details the natural history of Florida through Trappman's compelling paintings, artifact replicas, fossils, and examples of the resources utilized by ancient Native Americans.
Time: 5:00p
Venue: Tampa Bay History Center

"Dog Sees God: Confessions Of A Teenage Blockhead" – August 14, 2010
Jobsite Theater presents "Dog Sees God: Confessions Of A Teenage Blockhead" in Tampa. Teens struggling with sex, death and identity. A play by Bert Royal and directed by David M. Jenkins.
When CB's dog dies from rabies, CB begins to question the existence of an afterlife. His best friend is too burnt out to provide any coherent speculation. His sister has gone goth. His ex-girlfriend has recently been institutionalized and his other friends are too inebriated to give him any sort of solace. But a chance meeting with an artistic kid, the target of this group's bullying, offers CB a peace of mind and sets in motion a friendship that will push teen angst to the very limits. Drug use, suicide, eating disorders, teen violence, rebellion and sexual identity collide and careen toward an ending that's both haunting and hopeful.
Time: 8:00p
Venue: David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts
Price: $24.50

CATS: At the David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts – August 14-15, 2010
There's no better way to introduce your family to the wonders of live theater than with the magic, the mystery, the memory of CATS. What began as a musical about cats after Andrew Lloyd Webber picked up a book of poems in an airport bookshop has become one of the longest running shows in Broadway's history. Winner of seven Tony Awards including Best Musical, CATS features 20 of Andrew Lloyd Webber's timeless melodies, including the hit song, "Memory."
Venue: David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (formerly TBPAC)
Times: Sat. 2 and 8 p.m., Sun. 2 and 7:30 p.m.

Turn up the Volumn - Curtis and Kocab Benefit Concert- August 15, 2010
Benefit concert for the memorial funds for Officer Curtis and Officer Kocab. Live entertainment, balloon artists, face painters, palm readers, hand writing analysis’s and so much more. Come down and support the cause!
Address: 615 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL 33602
Times: 3pm-9pm
Admission: FREE

Goo Goo Dolls – August 15, 2010
Time: 8:00p
Venue: Florida State Fairgrounds: 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheater (formerly Ford Amphitheatre)

Ongoing Events:
August Double Dino Days
MOSI Presents- CSI: The Experience
Summer Nights at Busch Gardens- Ending August 15, 2010
Island Nights at Adventure Island- Ending August 15, 2010
Play & Dine All Day at Busch Gardens- Ticket sales end on September 6, 2010

Hey Tampa Bay, Alex here to tell you about the chef’s responsible for creating some of the fabulous dishes that will be featured during Tampa’s Restaurant Week. 

Tampa Bay is home to a long list of prestigious chefs, known for preparing a variety of fabulous food! Below is a list of a few that will be participating in Tampa’s Restaurant Week.

Kiel Lombardo- Executive Chef, Roy's Tampa
Growing up in upstate New York, Kiel Lombardo watched his uncle and father dish out a nightly feast for their big Italian family. At the age of 15, Kiel took his first job as a prep cook at a local Italian bistro. He later went on to earn a degree in Culinary Arts and Hospitality Management at New Hampshire College, and now he is the Executive Chef at Roy’s Tampa. Kiel is responsible for overseeing the menu that features Hawaiian Fusion Cuisine.


Jason Maddens- Executive Chef, Jackson's Bistro
Jason Maddens left his studies in Aerospace Engineering at West Virginia University in 2003 to pursue a career in cooking. Upon graduation from Washington D.C.'s prestigious L' Academie de Cuisine, in Gaithersburg, Maryland, he began his training at 2941 Restaurant in Washington D. C, becoming a sous chef after two years. Leaving the D. C. area in 2007, his travels have taken him to every corner of the European continent, as well as his own country. Chef Madden’s newest tenure has begun at downtown Tampa’s well-know Jacksons Bistro, Bar & Sushi. A sous chef since April 2008, Chef Jason has recently assumed control of the 20,000 square foot facility as Executive Chef.


Marty Blitz- Owner/Proprietor/Head Chef, Mise En Place
As a young adult, New York native Marty Blitz owner and head chief, apprenticed under European-trained Master Chef Milos Cihelka at the Golden Mushroom, a well-known restaurant outside Detroit, through the prestigious American Culinary Federation. Blitz's career actually began though, at age 12 when he started working in his neighborhood Jewish delicatessen. Blitz has since spent his nearly 30 years in the industry expanding a culinary repertoire that now includes the Southeast’s many cultures and flavors. Under his guidance Mise en Place’ expanded both its catering business and its in-house capabilities growing from  six-table diner in 1986 to its current evolution as a full-service restaurant seating up to 240 people and preparing as many as a 1,000 meals in an evening.



Gabriel Silva- Executive Chef, The Palm Restaurant
Executive Chef, Gabriel Silva was born in Montevideo, Uruguay. He moved to South Florida where he attended Florida Culinary Institute in Palm Beach County and graduated at the top of his class in 1992. While in Palm Beach, Chef Gabriel worked as an Executive Sous Chef for 4 and 5 star hotels such as the Palm Beach Gardens Marriott, Sheraton City Place and The Breakers Hotel. Gabriel he joined the Palm team as Sous Chef in 2004 and was promoted to Executive Chef in January 2008.


Fabrizio Schenardi- Executive Chef, Pelagia Trattoria
Fabrizio Schenardi, executive chef of the Tampa Bay fine dining restaurant Pelagia Trattoria, first honed his culinary and pastry skills while studying and training in Italy, where he learned the essence of Italian cuisine. A native of Rivoli, Italy, Schenardi incorporates flavors from his homeland into many of his most popular dishes at our Tampa Airport Restaurant. Diners enjoy his creativity daily at Pelagia Trattoria, a one-of-a-kind Tampa Bay fine dining experience that adjoins the Four Diamond- rated Renaissance Tampa Hotel International Plaza.



Kory Foltz- Chef de Cuisine, Oystercatchers 
Kory Foltz has been in the foodservice industry for over 15 years, five of which has been with Hyatt Corporation. Prior to accepting the position as Chef de Cuisine at Oystercatchers, his work at the Grand Hyatt Tampa has included Chef de Cuisine Petey Brown's, acting Banquet Chef, as well as working in every outlet of the hotel.

 

Shane Schaibly-Director of Food and Beverage, The Melting Pot
Shane Schaibly is the Director of Food and Beverage for The Melting Pot restaurants. On the culinary side, Shane is responsible for overseeing the research and development and cost planning for all of The Melting Pot’s menu offerings.  He creates and assists in the procurement of all new menu items for The Melting Pot’s signature Big Night Out menu, which changes every March and September and is loosely themed around a different region of the world each time.  He works closely with The Melting Pot’s vendor partners and research and development chefs to ensure that the fondue chain is putting out more than exceptional food every time!


Chad Johnson- Executive Chef, SideBern's
Johnson, who has been at the helm of SideBern's since 2007, has been featured in USA Today, the Tampa Tribune, Boca Raton Magazine, Florida Living Magazine and was a finalist in the 2008 Copa Jerez Sherry Pairing Competition. At SideBern’s, Johnson focuses on serving guests products that are locally sources(within an hour and a half from the restaurant) and emphasizes seasonal, premium ingredients. Her prepares them using modern cooking techniques that highlight the ingredient’s inherent flavors and this is what continues to keep guests returning.


 
Chef John Saxton- Executive Chef, Urban Culinary Cuisine
John Saxton, Executive Chef at Urban Culinary Cuisine Café, has always had a passion for great food. John was once a Chef's Apprentice, learning from Chefs from around the world, at the infamous "Windows On The World" on the 107th Floor of the World Trade Center in NYC. He was asked by Barbara Smith to assist her in developing her first restaurant, B. Smith's, located on 8th Avenue in NYC. Johns extensive career and passion for food has led him to open Urban Culinary Cuisne Café. Known simply as “Chef” by the locals, his experience has influenced the development of his own signature menu ranging from “u[scale cuisine” to “southern comfort food” to very sensual desserts.


Daniel Desmond- Executive Chef, Saddlebrook Resort
Daniel Desmond, Executive Chef at Saddlebrook Resort since 1998, is responsible for all resort restaurants, menu creation, nutritional needs for the resort's sports program and private school as well as a staff of over 70 people.
Chef Daniel is heavily involved in all aspects of the resort’s signature restaurant.  Dempsey’s Steak House, Tropics Restaurant and Lounge, The Poolside Café and Bar, The Coffee Bar, the resorts Pasty Shop, as well as the Banquet Kitchen, which prepares all banquet meals for meeting groups as well as social events at Saddlebrook.


Mark Heimann- Executive Chef, Renaissance Vinoy Resort & Golf Club 
The Vinoy Executive Chef graduated from the Kendall Culinary School in Chicago and held several culinary positions throughout the Chicago area before joining the Vinoy in May of 1995.  As the Executive Chef of the award-winning historic hotel. Mark oversees the Vinoy's five superior restaurants, each featuring its own unique ambiance and cuisine, from the resort's signature dining room of Marchand's Bar & Grill to the more casual Alfresco. Also responsible for the resort's award-winning banquet department, Chef Heimann hosts extravagant gatherings with an imaginative culinary style that has become a Vinoy trademark.

 
Jonathon Luft- Executive Chef, InterContinental Tampa
After discovering a passion for cooking while watching his grandmother growing up, Jonathan Luft has amassed over 15 years of experience cooking in luxury resorts and properties across the country. As Executive Chef at InterContinental Tampa, Luft has elevated the level of fine dining at one of Tampa’s best steak houses and the city’s newest luxury hotel. He came to Tampa to take the helm of Shula’s Steak House and InterContinental Tampa after the restaurant and hotel underwent an $18 million dollar revitalization. Luft has enjoyed re-establishing Shula’s as an area favorite serving specialties such as fresh seafood, heavenly desserts and the Shula’s Cite, which less than 2% of all steaks qualify for.




Gerado Bayona- Corporate Chef, Columbia Restaurant
Geraldo is the Corporate Chef for the Columbia Restaurant Group. He is based out of the flagship Columbia Restaurant in Tampa's Historic District of Ybor City. He was named Corporate Chef in 2005, and works closely with all the Columbia Restaurants to assure that the family's century old recipes, ingredients and food meet Columbia Restaurant's high standards while at the same time creating new recipes and keeping up with the food trends.



Ben Bowman- Executive Chef, Mitchell's Fish Market
Executive Chef Ben Bowman attended the Columbus College of Art and Design from 1996-2000 and has 15 years of experience in the restaurant business under his belt. His journey includes eight years with Cameron Mitchell Restaurants of Columbus, Ohio.



Kelly Marshall- Executive Chef, Wyndham Tampa Westshore
Executive Chef Kelly Marshall has been cooking professionally for fifteen years and has spent five of those years at the Wyndham Tampa Westshore (formerly known as the Quorum Hotel Tampa) overseeing the Blue Water Grill restaurant and catering operations for their 12,000 square feet of banquet space.


Now that you know who is responsible for cooking your food at some of Tampa’s local restaurants, why don’t you go give it a try during Tampa Bay's Restaurant Week 2010, which will be in Tampa from August 29- September 6, 2010.

Check back often for updates on Tampa Bay dining and where to eat in Tampa Bay!
 

Hey Tampa Bay, if you are trying to make plans for this weekend, you have come to the right place. Alex here to let you know what his happening around the area this weekend.

Aerosmith Concert- August 7, 2010
Time: 7:00p
Venue: Florida State Fairgrounds: 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheater (formerly Ford Amphitheatre)
 
World of Beer presents Summer Session – August 7, 2010
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts: Jaeb Theater
Price: $25.00

Welcome to WOB Culture! For those who’ve experienced our events, you know what we’re talking about. For those folks who haven’t, we’re excited to have you out for a night of great beer, great people and even better music. We love music (and beer), our annual WOBtoberfest keeps getting better each year and we hope to see even more new faces out this year.
We are thrilled to bring our WOB Culture to new venues and hope to strengthen our relationships with our regular guests as well getting to meet some new folks who’ve never been to a World of Beer. We are building a concept based on treating people right, so we hope you come out and enjoy yourselves.

"Strolling In A Perfect Paradise" – August 7, 2010
Time: 10:00a to 5:00pm
Venue:  Henry B. Plant Museum
Price: adults $10, seniors 65 and older and students $7, children 4-12 $5

The Henry B. Plant Museum presents "Strolling In A Perfect Paradise." The gardens of the 1891 Tampa Bay Hotel were touted as the most exotic in the country. This exhibit will showcase the splendor of the gardens within the context of landscape design in the 19th century. Oversized projected images will give guests the sense of truly experiencing the once-magnificent grounds. It will also feature historic images from brochures, newspapers, negative slides, and photographs, along with original decorative pieces and, in the current garden, historic garden markers.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Roller Derby Benefitting Foster Girls- August 7, 2010
Address: 5311 East Busch Boulevard, Temple Terrace, FL 33617
Times: Doors open at 7:30- 8pm.
Admission: Tickets: $12 - take $2.00 off your ticket with a donation of teen girl needs such as make-up, handbags, diaries and hair products!

You are invited to the Girl’s Just Wanna Have Fun, 80’s night at Skateplex, 5311 E. Busch Blvd. this Saturday, August 7th! Come see Cigar City Mafia versus Switchblade Sisters battle it out for foster children of the Heart Gallery of Tampa Bay, an area-wide portrait exhibition of children who need homes.

Tampa Yankees Back to School Bash August 7, 2010
Address: One Steinbrenner Dr., Tampa, FL 33614
Times: 5:30 pm
Admission: $4 general admission $6 reserved ticket

The Tampa Yankees will host their carnival-style “Back to School Bash” on Saturday, August 7. Gates will open at 4:30 p.m., followed by a game against the St. Lucie Mets at 5:30 p.m. The first 250 children 14 years old and under will be given a Yankees bag filled with school supplies. The “Back to School Bash” will feature a face painter, balloon artist, bounce house and carnival-themed games, with a variety of prizes available for kids and parents who are seeking a fun night together before school resumes in the fall. There will also be a post game fireworks display. The Tampa Yankees, who are the Class A affiliate of the New York Yankees, play their home games at Steinbrenner Field.

WaZoo: Beer Extravaganza 2010 – August 7, 2010
Address: 1101 W Sligh Ave., Tampa, FL 33604
Times: Saturday, August 7 from 7:30-10:30 p.m.

Rated as one of the “10 Great Beer Festivals in the Country” by USA Today, this 15th annual extravaganza features over 200 beers and beverages from around the world, food sampling from local restaurants, and live music! The “Beastly Beverage Club” (VIP-level ticket) returns to the Safari Lodge - the only air-conditioned space at WaZoo. Tickets are available online on June 1st, or by phone 813-935-8552 ext. 276. General admission tickets are just $50 per person in advance or $65 at the door; Beastly Beverage Club tickets are $75 per person in advance; Designated Driver tickets are $20. Group discounts available for 20 tickets or more. The event is rain or shine.

Girls Just Wanna Have Fun Weekend- August 7, 2010
Address: 400 Mandalay Avenue, Clearwater Beach, FL 33676

Pamper Me Party, Fashion Show, and Breakfast! Experience fun, fantasy, surprises, and camaraderie with the Featured Door Prize of a 2-night stay at the Hilton Clearwater Beach! A portion of the proceeds benefit the Greater Palm Harbor Area Chamber of Commerce Foundation, Inc. that supports educational, community, and cultural programs. For more information on sponsorships, tickets, and overnight packages call Palm Harbor Chamber of Commerce at 727-784-4287 or e-mail phcc@palmharborcc.org

Obscured by Time: The Magic of Florida" – August 7 & 8, 2010
Time: 10:00a to 5:00p
Venue: Tampa Bay History Center

Tampa Bay History Center presents the exhibition "Obscured by Time: The Magic of Florida," featuring the art of Hermann Trappman. The exhibit details the natural history of Florida through Trappman's compelling paintings, artifact replicas, fossils, and examples of the resources utilized by ancient Native Americans.

Buckler’s 3rd Annual Craft Fair & Food Drive- August 7 & 8, 2010
Times: Sat 10am-5pm, Sun. 10am-4pm
Address: 3000 Ringling Blvd., Sarasota, FL 34237
Venue: Robarts Arena
Admission: Adults $ 6, Kids 4-12 $1. One paid admission good all weekend with a hand stamp. BUY ONE ADMISSION – GET ONE FREE. Print this out or bring a canned good for this offer. Benefits the local food ban!

Nationwide Exhibitors will be displaying and selling handmade items. Grab a friend and come browse through unique one-of-a-kind items and gifts, custom home décor, sample delicious fudge and gourmet delights, try on custom made gold and silver jewelry, find that perfect piece of handcrafted furniture. You’ll also find country and traditional crafts, folk art, dolls, hair accessories, candles, baskets, baby items, artwork, pet items, quilts, wearable art, flags, painted glass, yard art, CD’s, framed prints, note cards, scrapbooking, herb pax, primitive, personalized items, and much more. Hourly giveaways of $20 shopping sprees!! Do not miss this popular event. You are sure to find some unique treasures!! Buckler Promotions, Inc. 386-860-0092. www.BucklerCraftFair.com.

Your Wedding TV ULTIMATE Bridal Show – August 8, 2010
Time: 1:00p to 5:00p
Venue: Doubletree Hotel Tampa Westshore
Price: 7.00 online in advance or $10.00 at the door

Register Now at www.YourWeddingTV.com for discount tickets to attend Tampa's Best Bridal Show! *Pre-registered Brides are entered to win Exclusive Prizes! *Prizes Galore including 10 Grand Prizes! *Meet with the area's finest wedding vendors and receive special offers for your wedding! *Tampa's HOTTEST Runway Fashion Show with all the latest bridal gowns and live entertainment! Everything you need for your wedding... all in one place, in one afternoon!

Rock School Blowout – August 8, 2010
Time: Aug 8 1:00p
Venue: David A. Straz Jr. Center for the Performing Arts

Led by Rock School guru Lee Ahlin, these bands remind us why we were born to be wild and the benefits of wanting to Rock ‘n’ Roll all day!

Teen Night @ The Dallas Bull-  August 8, 2010
Address: 3322 U.S. Hwy. 301 N, Tampa, FL 33619
Times: 7-10 p.m.
Admission: $20

Give your teen a safe and fun environment to occupy their time! Dancing, pool tables, darts and more. Date: Sunday, August 8th Time: 7-10 p.m. Fee: $20 admission Age: 13-17 with photo school ID as proof of age No exit until 10 p.m. unless guardian is present. Celebrate the continuation of summer with friends at our Inaugural Dallas Bull Teen Night.

Pinellas Goes Back to School Bash- August 8, 2010
Address: 800 Second Avenue N.E., St. Petersburg, FL 33701
Times: 11a 'til 4p
Admission: Free

Join us as Pinellas Goes Back to School for a day of fun at The Pier. DJ Cage with dance contests, along with after school program information and demonstrations for getting your child back on track for the school year. There will be a New to You Clothing Swap, Silly Bandz trading tent, face painting and more! Pinellas Goes Back to School is an event to close out the summer and embrace the new school year. There is no charge to attend this event. Join us from 10a. 'til 4pm.

Events Happening All Summer:
MOSI Presents - CSI: The Experience
Play & Dine All Day at Busch Gardens
Summer Nights at Busch Gardens
Live Stand-Up Comedy-National Headliners
Island Nights at Adventure Island
August Double Dino Days- Visit Dinosaur World in August and get a free pass to come back any day in December

Hey Tampa Bay, Alex here to tell you about my personal experience at The Tampa Bay History Center.

I began my day with a tour of the two story museum. I got to see all of the major exhibits, the gift shop and event space. This museum is filled with a plethora of information on Tampa’s historical chapters with interactive games and videos for children and adults. 

After the tour, I then went back into the museum to view a few exhibits that interested me. First, I checked out Coacoochee’s Story Theater, which immerses viewers in the interesting account of Seminole Chief Coacoochee’s experiences during the Second Seminole War through videos and "Disney- like” dioramas. 
  
I then headed over to Cigar City, which chronicles Tampa's cigar industry and immigrant communities while featuring one of the most extensive cigar memorabilia collections in the world. This section was my personal favorite.  Everything from the architectural design of Cigar City to the mini- videos on Ybor’s history and social life made me feel like I had taken a step into Tampa’s past.  I spent the majority of my time in this section because I was fascinated with the videos that took you back in time through research information and interviews with some of Tampa’s older locals.

I ended my visit with a café con leche and a "signature" 1905 salad at the Columbia Café. This is the perfect restaurant to have at Tampa’s History Center. Not only do you get to indulge in wonderful food, you get the feel of Tampa’s History through the restaurant’s decorations and menu.

Now, go head over to the Tampa Bay History Center to enjoy a great day of learning, fun and good food!

That's it for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on Arts and Culture in Tampa Bay!
 

Hey Tampa Bay, looking for something fun to do this weekend? Well, if so you have come to the right place. I, Alex, have created a list of fun things happening around the area this weekend!

Suncoast Business Expo- July 24, 2010
If you have never owned a business and wanted to know how, this event is for you. Seminars on tax advantages, lead generation, customer service, how to buy a franchise, how to buy and sell a private business, promotional products and more. There will be some of the top home based businesses and business opportunities in Florida giving their business briefings all in one location. Save time and money with one stop shopping. Find the Business that right for you. Doubletree Airport Hotel Convention center, 4500 West Cypress Street Tampa Fl 33607.www.suncoastbusinessexpo.com
Address: 4500 W Cypress St., Tampa, FL 33607
Times: Saturday and Sunday 9-5
Admission:  $10

The Devine Equine III *** Horses helping veterans- July 24, 2010
Celebrate the healing power of horses while viewing beautiful equestrian art created by local artists at Great Art & Frame. Proceeds from sales help support Quantum Leap Farm's therapeutic equestrian programs, which now include equine assisted self exploration as well as therapeutic riding and carriage driving. Your participation will help disabled veterans, civilian adults, and children receive the benefits of equestrian therapy at Quantum Leap Farm.
Address: Great Art & Frame, 9906 W. Linebaugh Avenue, Tampa, FL 33626
Times: 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Admission: Free

Metrocon- July 24, 2010
Celebration of Japanese popular entertainment, including anime (animation), manga (comics), J-pop and J-rock music, cosplay (costume design and performance) and video games. Also includes a film festival and Fantasy Masquerade.
Address: 333 S Franklin St., Tampa, FL 33602
Times: Noon
Price: $10-$55

Surf & Turf, Wine & Dine – July 25, 2010
Come into Charley’s Steak House this season and choose from a summer-exclusive Surf & Turf menu with sommelier-chosen wine pairings for each course. Our specialized menu offers the highest quality turf items with the freshest seafood available, paired with exotic wine from across the globe. Patrons can indulge in this Surf & Turf, Wine & Dine summer feature with the number one rated restaurants in all of Orlando, according to Orlando Magazine.
Venue: Charley's Steakhouse

The Music Man- July 24, 2010
The CCC Community Theatre will present Meredith Willson’s The Music Man on Friday, July 23 at 7:30 pm and Saturday, July 24 at 3 pm.
The Music Man is a musical with book, music, and lyrics by Meredith Willson. The show is based on a story by Willson and Franklin Lacey. The plot concerns con man Harold Hill, who poses as a boys' band organizer and leader, and sells band instruments and uniforms to naive townsfolk before skipping town with the cash. In River City, Iowa, prim but progressive Marian, the librarian, sees through him, but when Hill helps her younger brother, Marian begins to fall in love with Harold. Harold, in turn falling for Marian, risks being caught to win her. 
In 1957, the show became a hit on Broadway, winning five Tony Awards, including “Best Musical”, and running for 1,375 performances. The cast album won the first Grammy Award for "Best Original Cast Album". The show's success led to revivals and a popular 1962 film adaptation and a 2003 television remake. It frequently is produced by both professional and amateur theater companies.
Address: 4537 Lowell Rd., Tampa, FL 33618
Times: July 16 at 7:30 pm, Saturday, July 17 at 3 pm, Friday, July 23 at 7:30 pm and Saturday, July 24 at 3 pm
Venue: Carrollwood Cultural Center

Tampa Bay Storm vs Alabama Vipers: MillerCoors Beer Tasting- July 24, 2010
The Tampa Bay Storm and 97X invite you to a special MillerCoors Beer Tasting on the West Plaza of the St. Pete Times Forum prior to the game on Saturday, July 24 from 5:30 – 7:30pm. (Sample craft and specialty beers from our friends at MillerCoors)
Admission: $15 gets you a general admission ticket to the game, plus admission to the 2-hour pregame beer tasting.
$25 gets you a lower level end-zone ticket to the game, plus admission to the 2-hour pregame beer tasting.
If you’ve already got a ticket to the game – don’t miss out on the fun! Get your admission to the beer tasting for only $10!
Times: July 24 from 5:30 – 7:30pm
Venue: St. Pete Times Forum

Cinematic Situation “Tampa’s Premier Fashion Show” – July 24, 2010
Powered By: Vybe Nation
Time: 7:00pm
Venue: Club Skype
Age Suitability: None Specified

Tampa Bay Rowdies Vs. Miami – July 25, 2010
Address: One Steinbrenner Dr., Tampa, FL 33614
Times: 4:00 pm
Venue: New York Yankees at George M. Steinbrenner Field

Obscured by Time: The Magic of Florida" – July 25, 2010
Tampa Bay History Center presents the exhibition "Obscured by Time: The Magic of Florida," featuring the art of Hermann Trappman. The exhibit details the natural history of Florida through Trappman's compelling paintings, artifact replicas, fossils, and examples of the resources utilized by ancient Native Americans.
Venue: Tampa Bay History Center

Wisin & Yandel "La Revolución" Tour- July 25, 2010
Top-selling Latin Urban artists Wisin & Yandel are returning to the United States this summer for the second leg of their successful “La Revolución” U.S. Tour.
Address: 401 Channelside Dr., Tampa, FL 33602
Times: 8pm
Admission: Tickets start at $40.25

Events taking place all Summer long:
Summer Nights at Busch Gardens
Play & Dine All Day at Busch Gardens
Summer Classic Movie Series
Island Nights at Adventure Island
Cyber Bowling at Pin Chasers
Kids Eat Free at Thai Thani and Oishi in Channelside

Have a fun weekend and check back next week for more information on fun Tampa Bay events and things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hey Tampa Bay, Alex here to tell all of you women in the area about Florida Fashionista’s debut of “Wine, Women & Shoes”.

November 4-6, 2010 Florida Fashionista’s will debut “Wine, Women and Shoes”, a 3- day fundraiser to benefit the Children’s Dream Fund.  
 
This 3-day nationally rrecognized event will bring together charity supporters, wine enthusiasts and fashion lovers. The event centers around the careful art of wine and shoe pairing. Ten West Coast wineries will travel to Tampa Bay to showcase their wine collections. The latest in fashion and shoes will be represented from local boutiques and high-end designers brought in from leading trend-setting cities – Italy,  New York, L.A., London and Las Vegas.   
 
‘Vintners and Vines,’ a unique spin on the traditional walk-around wine tasting, will kick-off the events on Thursday, November 4 at Straz Center’s Maestro’s in Tampa from 7p.m. – 10p.m.  During a special VIP Crush Hour pre-party from 6pm – 7pm, guests will meet the vintners from select West Coast wineries.  Admittance to ‘Crush Hour’ and ‘Vintners and Vines’ is $75; General admission to ‘Vintners and Vines’ only is $55.
 
The signature event, Wine, Women and Shoes®, will be on Friday, November 5 at the Straz Center’s Morsani Hall and Riverwalk Promenade from 10:30a.m to 2:30p.m.  Wine, Women and Shoes® is a strolling wine and food tasting, boutique shopping experience, live and silent auctions, and a high energy fashion show that come together for a few fabulous hours of fundraising, camaraderie and shopping. Ladies will be pampered by one of the event’s 'Sole Men' - charming men from the community will cater to the crowd with designer shoes presented on a silver platter.  General admission is $150 and tables start at $1,000. 
Sponsorship levels are available.  
  
On Saturday, November 6, ten wine-paired dinners will be held at exclusive homes throughout Tampa Bay for private ‘Vintner Dinners.’  Each will offer a unique and intimate dinner experience, having a different theme with a carefully paired menu and wine list. There will be a West Coast vintner on site to walk guests through the dinner pairing and answer questions.  Photos of the homes and details about the personalized dinners will be available soon at http://www.winewomenandshoes.com/tampa.  Prices vary.  
 
“The Florida Fashionistas  put the ‘fun’ back in fundraising by adding the element of fashion,” said Kit Stewart, Founder of Florida Fashionistas.  “It is the type of event that brings it all together- wonderful women, style, a great venue and a noble cause.”

Tickets will be available early this summer and sponsorship opportunities are still available. Visit www.winewomenandshoes.com/tampa or contact Robin Roberts at Robinroberts717@gmail.com to request sponsorship information. 
 
To schedule an interview or for a complimentary press pass to the event with media credentials, please contact Andrea Vest at 727-896-6390 or by email, avest@childrensdreamfund.org.

Check back often for more information on Tampa Bay area events, and Tampa Bay nightlife related things to do in Tampa Bay!

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Hey Tampa Bay.. Alex here with a list of fun events and activities happening in and around the Bay Area this weekend:

1. Mary Poppins – June 4- June 6, 2010
Mary Poppins made her way into Tampa in early May, but will be heading out after this weekend. Make sure you head over to the David A. Straz. Jr. Center of Performing Arts June 3- June 6, 2010 to see the best combination of the original stories by P.L Travelers, and the beloved Walt Disney film, Mary Poppins.

 2. Taste of Pinellas- June4- June 6, 2010
The annual Taste of Pinellas returns to the Bay area at Vinoy Park on June 4th(5:00pm-10:00pm), Saturday, June 5th (11:30am-10:00pm) and Sunday, June 6th (12:00pm-7:00pm).  There will be food and import beers from a number of restaurants including Fresco's, Parkshore Grill, Courtside Grille and Crabby Bills, as well as an outdoor stage with different acts playing every night, including country star Martina McBride. If that wasn't enough, there will be plenty of games and crafts to keep everyone entertained!
This event will be located at Vinoy Park on 501 5th Avenue, NE, St. Petersburg, FL 33701 and will cost $5 per day on Friday and Saturday, Free on Sunday.

3. Goodwill Wedding Gown Sale- June 4, 2010
This Friday and Saturday morning the Goodwill Superstore will be hosting The Fourth Annual Goodwill Wedding Gown Gala. They will have hundreds of designer gowns on sale in all sizes and styles, with prices up to 85 percent off retail. The gowns are all new and would normally retail from $500 to $1,250. The sale begins at 6 a.m. Friday at the Goodwill Superstore, 3929 Tampa Road, Oldsmar. If brides don't find what they're looking for there, a new batch of dresses will go on sale at 6 a.m. Saturday at the Wesley Chapel Goodwill, 2390 Willow Oak Drive,Wesley Chapel.
There won't be any jewelry on sale this year, but there will be lots of bridal accessories including new garter belts, toasting glasses, guest books with quill pens, print-your-own invitation kits, picture frames, bridal shoes and veils.

4. Walk like MADD- June 4, 2010
Mothers Against Drunk Driving (MADD) will be hosting the 2010 Tampa Bay Walk MADD 5k, noncompetitive fundraising walk on Friday, June 4th. The walk begins at 7pm at the USF Campus in Tampa. For complete information and to register or donate visit WalkLikeMADD.org

5. Kris Pierce is Appearing at the Wagon Wheel Flea Market- June 5, 2010
Kris Pierce of Krispsoundz Entertainment will be appearing at the Wagon Wheel Flea Market in Pinellas Park, Florida on Saturday, June 5th. The flea market will be open from 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM. Kris Pierce will be appearing between the hours of 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM at the Wagon Wheel Flea Market 7801 Park Blvd. Pinellas Park, FL. 33781

6. Night in the Islands- June 5, 2010
On Saturday, June 5, from 6 - 11 pm, the City of Tarpon Springs will present A Night in Islands –a free event on the world famous Sponge Docks. Enjoy Greek music, dancing, dining and other activities under the stars at the Sponge Docks. The event features live music by Ellada, Greek dancing, and free lessons in tavli (Greek backgammon) offered by players from the World Tavli Association.
Address: Dodecanese Blvd. between Hope & Athens Streets, Tarpon Springs, FL 34689

7. Facing the Late Victorians: Portraits of Writes and Artist from the Mark Samuals Lasner Collection- June 5, 2010
This Saturday, June5, 2010 will be the last day The Henry B. Plant Museum will hold the exhibition that examines noted Victorians through portraits. This exhibit will provide visitors with the opportunity to come face to face with famous British poets, painters, novelists, playwrights and illustrators. Admission is a suggested donation of $5 per adult, $2 for children under 12. The exhibit will be open from 10:00AM to 4:00PM at the Henry B. Plant Museum located on 401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, Fl 33606

8. Carole King and James Taylor Tour- June 5, 2010
St. Pete Times Forum at 8:00pm

9. Tampa Bay Storm vs. Oklahoma City Yard Dawgz – June 5, 2010
St. Pete Times Forum 7:30pm

I hope you attend a few of these wonderful Tampa Bay events over the weekend.