Tampa Bars

So Who's Coming to Zoofari With Me Tomorrow!

Friday, November 6, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

Alrighty then, a little more than 24 hours till we get to head out to Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo tomorrow for the annual Zoofari festival, and Jerm can't wait! With the many Tampa Bay area events going on this weekend, this bad boy is gonna be up there with the best I assure you!

The 23rd annual Zoofari at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo will feature a variety of deliciously delectable food from more than 60 Bay Area restaurants!

One thing I do know is that I will do my best to sample food from all 60 vendors, which means that one of you may have to wheelbarrow me out of that place at some point.

There will be open bars, six bands throughout the Zoo featuring Sister Hazel on the main stage and a whole lot of other tastiness.

I would suggest you get there early, as the lines will be pretty crazy and the parking lot I can almost guarantee will overflowing, which is a good thing, because the more the merrier!

As usual I'll be tweeting live from the event and taking pictures when not stuffing my face, so hopefully I'll see you there! In the meantime stay tuned in for more things to do in Tampa Bay!

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.

Tampa Bay Entertainment Alert!

Wednesday, November 4, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with a Tampa Bay entertainment alert that you will want to hear.

The Pay-Per-View Welterweight Championship LIVE from the MGM Grand Garden Arena, Las Vegas, NV will be shown for FREE!

Here's what you get for FREE: The 12 Rounds of the Welterweight Championship with Manny Pacquiao vs. Miguel Cotto, plus 10 rds Middleweight Fight with Julio Cesar Chavez Jr. vs. Troy Rowland, and 12 rds of the Super Welterweight Championship Daniel Santos vs. Yuri Foreman.

It all happens on Saturday, November 14, 2009 at 9pm at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino’s Whammy Bar, Center Bar, Lobby Bar and the Poker Room.

So...BE THERE! And keep checking back for other Tampa Bay area events and other great things to do in Tampa Bay!

Biker Bash Returns to Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino

Wednesday, November 4, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hi everyone...Travis back with some cool Tampa Bay entertainment for you. Get your engines revved up, because Biker Bash is returning to one of the premier Tampa Bay hotels, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino.

The poolside Bike Bash will be on Sunday, Nov. 15 from noon - 6p.m., featuring the popular 10-Class Bike Show & Contest, a poker walk, live entertainment, $10 bar-b-que, and $2.50 Miller Lite specials.

Registration for the bike contest will be from noon until 3 p.m. and limited to the first 75 motorcycles. Trophies and prizes will be awarded in each of the 10 classifications. Oh, and the emcee for the Biker Bash will be Radical Randy.

So, if you need more details, head over to www.seminolehardrock.com. and as always, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, other Tampa Bay area events and even info about great Tampa Florida attractions.

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.

Throwing Away Free Money at BBB

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Partner Pulse

I went to Business by the Bay last night at Stump’s Supper Club and actually had a great time at one of the best Tampa Bars in the Channelside District. There was a guy playing the bass. And I mean an actual bass like in an orchestra not a bass guitar. Another guy played the keyboard and sang.

We could have lived without the singing but the music did set up a great environment. Tampa Bay Entertainment keeps getting better each year I live here.

When I got there I was given a free drink ticket and some free bucks to use at the gambling tables provided by Delite Entertainment. There’s nothing like alcohol and gambling to make for a great night! The Tampa Bay Hotel sales departments were out in full force. And it’s always fun to see the guys from The Florida Aquarium.

A few chicken fingers later and I’m ready to throw away some free money at the gambling table. It took 1.3 minutes flat for me to lose everything but the experience was certainly enjoyable. These days with the Tampa Florida News about the economy any reason to laugh is worth the effort.

If you want to come with me and have a great time the next Business by the Bay is at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center in Carol Morsani Hall November 17th at 5:30 p.m. We'll be celebrating Wonderland: Alice's New Musical Adventure!

Ribs, Ribs and More Ribs

Friday, October 30, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone...Travis here with some great Tampa Bay entertainment news! This time, we are heading out to St. Petersburg for the 21st Annual Northeast Exchange Club Ribfest.

It's Nov. 13-15. This Ribfest marks its 21ST year of helping a variety of youth-oriented causes “one rib at a time”.

This three-day charity fundraiser features the best barbeque ribs in the World, plus national touring artists playing classic and southern rock and country hits.

You can also catch Hell on Wheels, the nation’s leading BMX action stunt show, along with a Classic and Custom Car Show. Tickets are on sale, so hurry up. Just make your way to www.ribfest.org to get the full scoop (and slab of ribs)!

And they'll have plenty of napkins, so don't worry. I hope everyone enjoys, and keep checking back for more great Tampa Bay area events and other great things to do in Tampa Bay.

Dine, Drink and Dance at Zoofari! Ticket Giveaway!

Friday, October 30, 2009 by Partner Pulse

Known as one of Tampa Bay’s largest and “wildest” all-inclusive feeding frenzies in the Area, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo invites all of you food and music lovers to the 23rd annual Zoofari. The night event features all-you-can-eat food sampling from more than 60 local restaurants including but not limited to GrillSmith, Ceviche, The Melting Pot, Longhorn Steakhouse, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, The NoHo Bistro and so many more!

Quench your savage thirst at the open bars located in each area throughout the Zoo. Those with a sweet tooth can indulge at the Sweet Safari Station with delectable treats from the Cheesecake Factory, Chantilly Cakes, Edible Arrangements and others.

This widely recognized event isn’t just about filling up your belly with delicious food; Dance the night away to live music from six different bands including the nationally known rock band Sister Hazel on the main stage. There’s just one week left until Zoofari and Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is giving you the chance to win tickets!

Here are the rules:

You have to be a fan of the Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo and Zoofari facebook pages.
Change your status to “I want to go to Zoofari at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo on Saturday, Nov. 7.” Don’t forget that facebook allows you to tag pages and profiles by adding the “@” sign in front the name. (ex.: @Zoofari, @Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo).
Answer the trivia question posted on the Zoofari facebook page.
When you’ve completed all the above tasks, let us know by leaving a comment on the Zoofari page.
Those who complete each task will be entered into a drawing to win two adult complimentary tickets to Zoofari, Saturday November 7th at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo. 2 winners will be randomly selected and announced Monday, November 2.

Stay tuned for more updates on Tampa Bay area events and things to do in Tampa Bay!

Come Network with Tampa Bay & Company

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here! Have you ever thought about becoming a Tampa Bay & Company partner? Well, if not, trust me, it's totally worth it.

One of the reasons it's worth it is the ability to come and network with the other 700+ Tampa Bay & Company partners at the monthly Business By The Bay events.

As far as Tampa Bay area events are concerned, this one is packed with potential.

You can network with people in, and out, of the tourism industry in Tampa Bay. This month's BBTB will be held at Stumps Supper Club in Channelside. It happens in two days on Oct. 29 from 5-7pm.

All you have to do is click here to register. If you are a Tampa Bay & Company partner...it's FREE! Just register and come on out.

If you are a "potential partner" (which is everyone who's not a partner), there's a small fee, but again, it's totally worth it. Same goes for you, just log on, register and come on out.

Jeremy and I will both be there, so look for us. See you all on Thursday at Stumps Supper club.

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

POWERLIFTING CHAMPIONSHIPS SET TO RAISE THE BAR IN 2010

Monday, October 26, 2009 by Josh Jones

Josh Jones here guys, and I have some info on one of the cooler Tampa Bay area events coming to town! The Raw Unity Power-lifting Championships are set to take place in Tampa Bay for the third straight year.

Raw Unity is the perfect excuse to bring the best raw power-lifters in the state to compete using only their “raw” talent. The competition will take place on January 30Th and 31st, 2010 in the George W. Jenkins Family Center of the Jackson Springs Recreation Center.

For those of you who don’t know about Raw Unity or power-lifting, allow me to inform you. Power-lifting began in the late 1960s. Raw power-lifting started it journey with minor leagues being formed in the early to mid 90s. Raw power-lifting is another form of power-lifting; however, this form is how much a participant can lift without their squat suit. The purpose behind the whole concept is to test an athlete’s real raw lifting ability. Raw power-lifting covers three events: squat, bench press and dead lift.

Last year the championship was able to bring over 50 participants and over 250 show attendees to the big show. This year they expect over 100 participants and over 350 show attendees. All the proceeds from the meet will go to fund the Jackson Springs Recreation Center after-school athletic programs and scholarship funds.

Last year’s event sold out, so be sure to get there early to get your seats!

From more information: www.rawunitymeet.com. This is Josh Jones signing off now, and be sure to follow my posts for more updates from your Tampa Bay team on the amateur Tampa Bay Sports scene here in Tampa Bay!

COMPETITION SCHEDULE:
Saturday, January 30Th - Women and Lightweights (under 180lbs) compete
Sunday, January 31st – Men 180 lbs and up compete

It's Zoofari Time!!!

Friday, October 23, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey gang...Travis back and of course we're taking you through some very cool Tampa Bay area events! Today we are talking about an event we all look forward to each and every year - Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo's Zoofari!

Known as one of the largest and “wildest” all-inclusive food festivals in the Tampa Bay Area, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo invites food lovers to its 23rd annual Zoofari feeding frenzy.

The event features great food sampling from dozens of the Bay area’s best restaurants, open bars, the “Art Safari” wildlife art auction, and live music throughout the event. The Zoo welcomes Florida favorite Sister Hazel on the main stage, and additional artists Jason Young, Nate Najar, Alan Darcy, and The Vodkanuts in locations throughout the Zoo.

It is a fundraiser, so tickets are $75 online at LowryParkZoo.com, $80 by phone 813-935-8552 ext. 276, or $85 at the door the night of the event.

VIP/group packages are available in the “Rhino Club” with exclusive use of the beautiful Safari Lodge. Individual Rhino tickets start at $135 with group packages available. Admission tickets are all-inclusive and the event is rain or shine.

if you need more info, head over to www.lowryparkzoo.com! And keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay area events!

Guavaween Community Meeting Next Week

Thursday, October 22, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here. We bring you so many Tampa Bay area events that we thought we should tell you about the opportunities to get involved in them too. We just got this information from the City of Tampa.

There'll be a Guavaween Community Meeting next Wednesday, oct. 28 at 6:30pm..."In an effort to assist in making this event safe, profitable and efficient for all of us."

It'll take place at the Italian Club Cantina (that's at 1731 East 7th Avenue in Ybor City).

In case you weren't aware, Guavaween 2009 will take place Saturday, October 31 and is one of Tampa's coolest events.

If you want to take a look at some general information and rules for Guavaween, just click here.

If you need to know what streets will be closed and what vendors are participating, click here.

So, make sure you attend and have an impact on this year's Guavaween Festival.

And of course, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay.

Tampa Bay History Center Building Gets New Name

Wednesday, October 21, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with a Tampa tourism update. This is breaking news in from the county, so listen up!

In today’s regular Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners meeting, the motion carried 7-0 to rename the Tampa Bay History Center building the 'J. Thomas Touchton Tampa Bay History Center.'

The renaming of the building was brought forward by Commissioner Rose Ferlita to honor the dedication and drive Touchton demonstrated to make the new facility a reality. Touchton, the founding chairperson, spent 20 years actively raising both endowment and capital funds for the History Center project.

Plus, the Touchtons are in the process of donating their historic map collection of more than 3,000 items to the History Center. These maps and charts represent some of the “Florida” map-makers visions that have been created over the past 400 years.

The Tampa Bay History Center is located at 801 Old Water Street in the Channelside District, and serves as the County's official repository for historic artifacts. With a total cost of $52 million, $17 million provided by the County, the History Center includes 25,000 square feet of exhibit areas, featuring 12,000 years of local history, interactive displays and multiple theaters, plus a gallery that features temporary exhibits.

In addition, a research library is staffed by the Hillsborough County Library system. The Columbia Restaurant operates the Columbia Cafe, complete with a replica of the original Columbia Restaurant bar in Ybor City, founded in 1905.

If you want to learn more about the Tampa Bay History Center, visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

and there's your breaking news update! Check back for more Tampa tourism updates, as well as information on great things to do in Tampa Bay!

It's happening at the Florida State Fairgrounds!

Thursday, October 15, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with some great Tampa Bay area events taking place at the famed Florida State Fairgrounds throughout the rest of the month! From cool concerts and equestrian shows to retail and deli expos...the Fairgrounds has it all.

So, let's get to it shall we...take a look:

Oct. 16: Concert - Brad Paisley: Brad Paisley will perform in concert with special guests Dierks Bentley and Jimmy Wayne at the Ford Amphitheatre at the Fairgrounds. Ticket prices are $57.75 and $47.75 for reserved seating, $29.75 for lawn area seating, and $99 for a 4-pack of lawn tickets. For the latest concert information and to get more details, visit www.livenation.com.

Oct. 16-17: FWRHA Horse Show: The Florida Walking and Racking Horse Association (FWRHA) will host a two-day, two judge horse show for all levels of riders in the Charlie Lykes Arena. The show starts at 10 a.m. each day. Entry fees vary based on the entry category. Admission and parking are FREE for spectators. if you need more details, just head over to www.fwrha.org.

Oct. 16-18: Tampa Bay Boat Show: The St. Petersburg Times presents the boating event of the season featuring millions of dollars of inventory in new boats and watercraft on display in the Expo Hall. Visitors can shop for the boat of their dreams, check out special exhibits with the latest in supplies and accessories, or see one of a series of Florida fishing school seminars. The area's top fishing guides and local experts will provide great tips and secrets to learn how to catch the big one. Event hours are Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is FREE for all ages. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus. For more details, visit www.tampabayboatshows.com.

Oct. 17-18: Gun Show & Sale: One of Florida's premier gun shows returns to the Charles M. Davis Special Events Center for two days. The Suncoast Gun Show and Sale features firearms-related accessories including gun parts, gun-related tools, knives, cases, locks, cartridge boxes and belts, and ammunition for collectors. Show hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $8 for adults, children 12 and younger are admitted free. All persons under 18 years of age must be accompanied by an adult.

Plus, the Concealed Weapons/Firearms Safety Course fee is $45 per person. The classes are offered on both days at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. and last approximately two hours. All students must attend the range training and the range fee is $5. Appointments are not needed for these classes, nor are firearms. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus for each time a vehicle enters the grounds. For more information and online admission coupons, visit online www.suncoastgunshows.com.

Oct. 17-18: Slamfest Custom Car & Show: Mini Madness presents its 18th annual custom car and mini-truck show featuring over 1,400 custom vehicles on display at the Charles M. Davis Special Events Center and outdoors at the Fairgrounds. Activities include a burnout competition, car club games and on-site vendors selling merchandise. Thousands of dollars in giveaways and prizes will be awarded to Best of Show for import car, domestic car, and mini and full size truck/SUV categories.

Event hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. General admission is $15 per person each day and free for children ages 12 and younger. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus. For more information, visit www.minimadness.com.

Oct. 30: Concert - Styx & REO Speedwagon: Styx will perform in concert with special guests REO Speedwagon and Night Ranger at the Ford Amphitheatre. Ticket prices are $59.50, $39.50, $29.50 and $19.50 for each reserved seat or $60 for a 4-pack of reserved seating tickets. The lawn area is closed for this concert. Rain or shine. For the latest concert information about Ford Amphitheatre events, visit online www.livenation.com or call 813-740-2446.

Oct. 31-Nov. 1: Florida's Largest Fall Home Show: Held in the Expo Hall, Florida's Largest Fall Home Show provides a one-stop marketplace to see the latest products and services in remodeling, decorating, landscaping and furnishings for the home. Show hours are Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Ticket prices are $8 for adults; seniors ages 55 and up pay $7 each, and children under 12 enter free with an adult. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus. For more information, visit www.bighomeshow.com or call Turner Exposition at 813-677-6925.

Ok, so that was a lot of info, but believe it or not, there is much more going on at the Fairgrounds throughout the rest of October! So, get out there and have some fun!

And as always, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay area events.

Clip it, you know you want to

Tuesday, October 13, 2009 by lindsey norris

So we're in the midst of the 20th Anniversary of the Clip Film Festival this week. Can you believe it? Twenty years "celebrating life in pictures"! Anyone been to any screenings or special events yet? I was unable to attend opening night, as I was out of town for a work obligation and I'm sorry I missed it. Las year's celebration was incredible and I can only imagine how they planned to top themselves for the 20th Anniversary. Screenings and special events are happening daily on both sides of the Bay. For a complete schedule, click here.

I'm looking forward to attending this afternoon's media preview of the new CineBistro @ Hyde Park Village. Thanks for the invite, Katy. The grand opening happens this Friday, October 16th. You know the drill - high-end food, bar, great service, plus all your favorite films. Should be a great addition to the Hyde Park scene. It's also the home of the 2010 Gasparilla International Film Festival.

Speaking of Gasparilla, just got word of their next event via press release, here's a snipit:

The Gasparilla International Film Festival in conjunction with Brokenmold Entertainment is proud to present a special performance by acclaimed singer/songwriter Matt Butcher live in concert at the Market on 7th Ave in Ybor City on October 22. The show will benefit the Gasparilla International Film Festival and will be preceded by a screening of the independent film, Visioneers, starring Zach Galifianakis, who was most recently seen in 'The Hangover' and the new series on HBO, Bored to Death. Tampa fusionists Poetry 'n Lotion will close out the evening.

Should be a great event! Full details, including show times are online. Hope to see you there.

A shout out to the Guzzo Brothers who kick off filming today of their latest indie project, 'Caged Dreams'. I'm visiting the set this week so I'll be sure to snap some photos to share. Good luck guys!

Brews by the Bay... It Beertastic!

Thursday, October 8, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

Drink like a fish, but don’t get too tanked” were the words of wisdom for this year’s Brews by the Bay beer fest, hosted at the Florida Aquarium. This Florida Aquarium and Pepin Distributing event brought beer fans from the Bay area to celebrate Oktoberfest and sample more than 50 beers and a dozen restaurants. Tickets sold out just before the doors opened at 8p.m., leaving many mouths dry and thirsty. Those with tickets in-hand eagerly waited outside the Aquarium for their first sip.

This is how you play charades at Brews by Bay.

When the doors opened, guests were greeted by the sparkling tails and welcoming smiles of the Weeki Wachi Mermaids. Who can resist a photo-op with mermaids! The party started at the Aquarium’s Explore a Shore outside deck where a DJ was spinning the latest club hits.

The beer fest went throughout the entire Aquarium and each area was equally full with partygoers contemplating on which beer was the best.

Some of the favorites seemed to be Hefeweizen - it wouldn’t be Oktoberfest without it, Magic Hat #9 - a New England ale with a secret recipe, Tiger – an Asian lager with ingredients from around the world, and the “King of Beers” new Bud Light Wheat.

Unlike the many beer fests full of volunteers who barely know the name of what they’re pouring, the Florida Aquarium and Creative Loafing did a great job of bringing knowledgeable beer ambassadors to the event. Local band, Four Star Riot, rocked out on the first floor of the aquarium and it wasn’t long before people were dancing the night away.

Those who prefer a more relaxed atmosphere were found at the coral reef underwater viewing area listening to the sounds of an acoustic guitar. The Aquarium’s reef divers were there to enjoy the party too, making use of their abnormally good lip reading skills and etch-a-sketch boards.

By the end of the night, beer drinkers had become beer enthusiasts and all seemed to agree that the event was a success. The Florida Aquarium not only gave the excuse to drink like a fish, but left a lasting impression as a great venue.

I’m not sure how many listened to Creative Loafing’s words of wisdom, but I’m sure many will be marking their calendars for next year’s Brews by the Bay.

That's all for now and be sure to stay tuned for more updates on Tampa Florida attractions and great events!

U2 Tomorrow Night at Raymond James Stadium... Are You Ready!

Thursday, October 8, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

Well if you are not ready, then I suggest you get there really fast! Jerm here from your favorite Tampa Bay team of in the know bloggers with an important update that I am sure you all have been waiting for! A little less than 36 hours from now, Bono and the U2 crew will be rocking out Raymond James Stadium tomorrow night to an expected crowd of well over 60,000 fans!

Tickets for this bad boy sold out a long time ago from what I hear, so if you don't have tickets by now, then you are gonna have to wait for the next one. Me and Bono are tight like sardines and when I rang him on his mobile and asked him to get me tickets, even he couldn't help me out!

Okay, so I made up that last part, as I have never met Bono, but you get the point people, its sold out! Word on the street is that this monstrous circular stage, nicknamed "The Claw," costs $40 million.

Typically when I write a check the bank could bounce, as I have some deep pockets, but even for me that is a large amount of coin!

There are actually three stages that tour the country. It takes about thirty-seven trucks and a crew of more than 100 workers arrive several days in advance to set up, and the crews were working their tails off yesterday to get setup before the concert! For more info on this stage and the U2 360 Tour, be sure to check out their website.

As you can imagine, an event of this magnitude is going to have people coming from near and far, so be sure you get there early to try and beat the crowd. The stadium website is the best place to go in order to get all the show info with regards to stadium parking, FAQ's, etc so here is a link for that!

While I was at the stadium yesterday for the Press conference regarding Tampa Bay's World Cup Bid, I did happen to see the stage setup for the concert, and believe me when I tell you that there are truly few words to describe it! I can only describe it as "out of this world, and quite possibly the most amazing thing I have ever laid eyes on, with the exception of of a certain bartender friend of mine who will be working at the stadium tomorrow in the club section.

If you happen to be in either the east or west club area, be sure to go and say hi to Alexis aka "Lexie" for me, and be sure to buy your drinks from her! You will recognize her as the the girl whose smile will be sure to outshine the stadium lights!

Well folks, that's all I got for now but be sure to check back with me for my future updates about all of the great Tampa Bay area events so you can be in the know about what to do in our fine city this October!

Time to "Link Up" at the Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport!

Wednesday, September 23, 2009 by jeremy fairley

Hell all, Jerm here with a cool update on some progress one of our partners has made at their property. Normally I would leave this post to my departing friend Megan Marra, but since it has an interactive swing to it, I figure what the hay!

Guests at the Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport Westshore have a new spot to help them stay connected while traveling. The just-opened “Link@Sheraton” will act as the hotel’s communications lounge, offering an open-style, bar-side, social networking hub for guest use.

Located in the lobby and atrium areas of the eight-story, all-suites hotel, the Link has been added as part of the multi-million dollar renovation that is refreshing all parts of the property. Davidson Hotel Company, who holds ownership in the hotel through a joint venture partnership, is overseeing the renovation and also manages the hotel.

While business centers come standard in most hotels, the Link aims to combine the functionality of computer work stations with the ambiance and social scene people associate with places like Starbucks or Panera.

Guests at the Sheraton can use the open area to relax, work, socialize with others, connect electronically, or simply get out of their suites. The Link offers free wireless connection to guests, multiple computer stations, and daily newspapers, all among over-sized chairs and collective worktables. It opens into the eight-story tropical atrium, the largest in the Westshore District, which contains some of the most unique indoor landscaping around. I took a tour not too long ago guys and believe me when I say this place is super nice!

Stay tuned for more interactive and Tampa Bay hotel updates as they come!

Dinner at the Galerie Restuarant...

Friday, September 4, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

So it’s been a good week for Jerm as far as trying new food items at local restaurants this week and last night was no different as I mosied my way on over to the Gallerie Restaurant at the DoubleTree Guest Suites Tampa Bay to sample some fine Tampa Bay dining last night.

I wasn't exactly sure what I was in the mood for, so I just told my bartender Alexis to just surprise me. I knew that I wanted either shrimp or chicken, but sometimes I just can't make up my mind so, letting an independent party make the decision for me is the best course of action.

There is plenty for you to choose from on the menu though, so feel free to go and expect to have a tough decision to make. I saw another guy at the bar eating some chicken wings and those looked good as well.

Didn't take long for Alexis to come back with what I can only described as the most heavenly plate of pasta I have ever seen. I couldn't decide if I wanted to take pictures of it or eat it!

It was this concoction of penne pasta, tomatoes, chicken, shrimp, and some sort of cheese sauce that I can't identify, but who cares, as it was "make you wanna slap someone" good! In addition to being tasty, it was very filling, as I couldn't finish the thing in one sitting.

That's not a bad thing though, as I just packed it up and will be having it for lunch today! Big shout out to the cook, Alvin Bronson for hooking that up! If Alvin is reading this. thanks and I say you guys officially add that to the menu and call it "Jerm's Shricken Pasta Delight." Get it... "Shricken" short for shrimp and chicken!

You can't go wrong no matter what you choose on the menu at the Galerie. Service is even better as Alexis or any of the staff will take good care of you. You guys know how picky I am about service and how I like to have my glass full at all times, and I can't say I remember a time when it wasn't so between the meal and the service it was indeed a five star dinner for Jerm!

That’s all for now folks, but be sure to keep checking back for more things to do in Tampa Bay and Jerm's dining adventures!

Day 5 Paddler News from Prague

Friday, August 28, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone…Phil here with your day 5 update and recap. Getting up early after the long day yesterday and not getting to bed until late was tough. So 5:30am came early, but we were up at the buzzer. I quickly got my uniform on, ran down to the wifi area and sent the blog for yesterday.

I headed back up to my room to get all my gear for the day. You know, extra clothes, hat, sun glasses, water, energy bars, warm-ups, wallet, passport, camera and video camera, of course my paddle and all important butt pad (those wooden seats on the boats are hard).

Then headed down, now about 6:30, to the restaurant to wolf down some breakfast, grab an apple or two for the road and board the bus to the Racice race site. The weather today started like a day in Great Britain.

It was so foggy you couldn’t see 50 feet. When we got to the race site you couldn’t even see the finish line from our tent area. . . much less any of the lane bowies. Neither could the officials. So the start of the races was delayed about an hour. Eventually the weather cleared at it actually got hot, well into the 80’s.

Now that the racing is done for the day, I can’t believe day five is already over. The time is flying. Today was the day for the 1,000 meter races. These are grueling 4 plus minute races which are effectively all out sprints.

Probably a lot like the 880 race in track. It’s a sprint just off the 100 yd dash effort, but you have to go a long way. I raced in all three of the Senior Open men’s heats. Unfortunately, we didn’t get into the medal round.

These teams are really good! We’re not getting out of the gates as quickly as we’d like so we have some work to do. The shorter races are coming up in the next couple of days and we can’t afford to be slow in the start.

I also raced in the final (heat number 3) of the Grand Master’s mixed division. That was late in the afternoon and my fourth 1,000 meter race of the day. The good news here is that we took the Silver medal! Yahoo, I now have a bronze from the 2000 and a silver from the 1000.

We’re moving in the right direction. By the end of the day and after many races in many divisions the USA ended up with one Bronze and three Silver medals. One of our youth teams took a gold, but unfortunately it doesn’t count in the overall country count. The bronze was won by the Senior women’s team, one of the silvers was won by the Premier women’s team, one was won by my GM mixed team and the final one was taken by the Premier men’s team in the marquee event - the last race of the day.

The atmosphere and tension between the various country teams relaxed a lot today. There was a lot of congratulations for medal placing and at the end of races for just having a good race.

There was also a lot more interaction around the athlete’s village area and in walking around to and from various destinations. We are all here to compete, but we’re also here in fellowship around a common obsession!

Each country seems to have it’s own personality as you might expect, my observation is that the Australians, Britains, Germans, Canadians, Iranians, Philippines are more friendly than not and the eastern block and Asian countries, like China, Slovakia, Poland, Japan, Austria are much more reserved and standoffish.

The community is coming together now and we’re beginning to recognize individuals on certain teams. I think it will be really cool to have some of these folks in Tampa in two years. I hope I can stay in shape and get to compete against them on my own home turf!

Tomorrow, Friday, is 200 meter day. I have to be on the bus again at 7:00am, so I’m off the bed for now.