Tampa Bay Evacuations

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.
 

Hey everyone...Travis here with some Tampa Bay entertainment news you've all been waiting for.  Ok, ok, ok...you may not have all been waiting for it, but it's still great news. 

It's not everyday you get a chance to trick or treat with over 150 life size dinosaurs. But you can on Halloween at Dinosaur World.

Children in costume between the ages ages of 3 to 12 will receive free admission to Dinosaur World on Halloween Day. Halloween treats will also be given to all children who visit. This free admission is valid at all three locations.

For safety purposes, children must be accompanied by an adult (no kidding, right?!). This discount is valid only during business hours and is not part of any evening activities.

Free children admission covers all exhibits including the Dinosaur Walk, Fossil Dig, Prehistoric Museum, Boneyard, Movie Cave, Mammoth Garden, Skeleton Garden, Deinonychus Island, Carnivore Boardwalk and other location specific activities.

so, whether you're a kid or not, get out there and explore. 

And keep checking back for more great Tampa Bay area events for Halloween, and other great things to do in Tampa Bay!

Travis here with some Tampa Bay entertainment that is good for the whole family.  You can join the Hillsborough County Parks, Recreation and Conservation Department for a sunset movie at Medard Park in Planty City. 

They are showing the famed Shrek next Sat. Oct. 24.  The movie starts at 7:15pm and the gates open at 5:15pm...so get there early.  Here are some Q&A for you -

WHERE CAN I PARK?  Enter Medard Park at Turkey Creek Road and you will be directed to the FREE parking area by an attendant. 

HOW WILL THE FILMS BE SHOWN?  they project the movies on a high-quality digital rear-projection system on a giant, inflatable 50-foot wide screen. Dual, synchronized digital projectors will produce an image that is luminous and crisp, and a powerful sound system will allow guests to enjoy the movie from almost anywhere in the park. 

WHAT TIME SHOULD I ARRIVE?  Way before the film begins.  You can arrive as early as 5:15pm for Shrek. Part of the fun will be arriving early to picnic, toss a Frisbee, people-watch and enjoy the early evening with your friends and neighbors.  Prior to the film, you might even see yourself on the big screen as snapshots of guests at the park are flashed upon the screen.   

WHAT HAPPENS IF IT RAINS?  The Tampa area is known for the scattered showers that are prominent during the late afternoons. The dark sky can intimidate and it may look grim for an outdoor movie, but don't let that scare you away. We will show a movie in light rain. We will only stop the show for safety reasons if there are very strong winds or lightning in the vicinity. Otherwise...the show will go on!

WHAT SHOULD I BRING?  Along with your friends and family, you might want to bring blankets, compact beach or lawn chairs, your own snacks, beverages, and rain gear if the weather is iffy.  If you like to toss nerf balls or Frisbees, bring them.  If you like to read, bring a book to read prior to sunset and the start of the movie. 

WHAT FOOD, BEVERAGES AND MERCHANDISE WILL BE AVAILABLE?  Tampa Theatre will provide all Sunset Cinema concessions and merchandise booths, featuring a traditional theater concessions stand offering popcorn ($2), candy ($3) soft drinks ($2) Gatorade, bottled water ($3), and juice boxes for the kids ($1).  Fun souvenirs like official Sunset Cinema Frisbees and picnic blankets will also be available.  Proceeds from concessions and merchandise sales help support Tampa Theatre’s year-round artistic and educational programming, and offset the cost of producing Sunset Cinema events.

CAN I BRING MY DOG(S)?  Well behaved pets are allowed as long as they are kept on a leash. Please clean up after your pets. We love our dogs just as much as you, but we will revisit our policy if pet owners are inconsiderate of others, or if the large crowds, darkness and abrupt loudness of the movies make pets disruptive to others.

HOW MUCH DO TICKETS COST?  Admission is FREE!

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS?  e-mail gargoyles@tampatheatre.org – "our small but intrepid staff will answer e-mail questions within 24 hours (Monday through Friday)."

So, get the friends and family ready, and go have some fun.

we'll see you here next time for more great things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events.
 

Hey everyone...Travis here with more, FREE, great things to do in Tampa Bay!  that's right, I said FREE! 

It starts with Pops in the Park! The Florida Orchestra will perform a free Pops in the Park Concert this Friday, October 16, at 7 p.m. at River Tower Park in the Sulphur Springs area of Tampa.

Attendees may bring their own picnic dinners to the concerts or purchase food from food vendors at the parks.  Attendees are invited to make canned food donations to Tampa Bay Harvest’s food bank services in the Tampa Bay Area.  For concert information, call 727.892.3337 or 1.800.662.7286, or visit www.floridaorchestra.org.

Next, there's a Fire Station Open House hosted by Tampa Fire Rescue and Neighborhood & Community Relations this Saturday, October 17 from 10 am to 1 pm at Station 10 in East Tampa. It's at 3108 North 34th Street. Lots of fun and great picture opportunity!  So, take the kids and get out there! 

We've saved one of the best for last (ok, they are all the best, but still).  this one's a little far off, but start planning now...Walk with the Mayor!  Mayor Pam Iorio invites you to participate for Walking with the Mayor - Keeping Tampa Fit on Saturday, November 7 at Rowlett Park (Shelter 218), located at 2501 River Hills Drive.

Mayor Iorio initiated Walking with the Mayor – Keeping Tampa Fit in 2005 and walks are held twice a year. The goal of the walks is to encourage citizens throughout Tampa to incorporate additional physical activity into their lifestyles for better health.

For more information, just contact the Tampa Parks and Recreation Department at (813) 274-8615. 

So, get out, have fun, and do it all for FREE!!!!!  See you back here soon for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other awesome Tampa Bay area events! 
 

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. 

 

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some cool Tampa Bay entertainment options for you.  This is a great deal from the Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI)...

You can join MOSI and Tampa Bay Parenting Magazine on Saturday, August 15 for everything you need to prepare, protect and inspire your child before they go back to school. The fair will have Health & Wellness, Safety, Private Schools, Childcare and Learning Centers, Local Resources, Afterschool Programs, Tutors, Children’s Retailers and more!

***The first 100 kids at the event will get a free back-to-school goodie bag filled with supplies and goodies from Tootsville.com and MEAD...very cool, right???!!!

The special $10 admission ticket includes MOSI, Kids In Charge!, ANIMATION featuring Cartoon Network and more!  And it all happens tomorrow, Aug. 15 from 9am to 4pm, so make the plans to be there...it'll be worth it! 

To get even more info about this event, call 813-949-4400 or visit www.mosi.org.  Or, just let us know and we'll find the info for you too! 

We hope to see you out there.  And as always, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and info on other Tampa Bay area events!
 

TBT recently released their Top 100 Tampa Bars issue, right in time for the long 4th of July weekend. 

The winners are:

Ultimate Drinking Destination
 Hyde Park Café
 
Ultimate Irish Pub
 Four Green Fields
 
Ultimate Party
 Jackson’s Bistro
 
Ultimate Corner Bar
 The Hub
 
Ultimate New Club
 Aja Channelside
 
Hyde Park Cafe's Rafael Martinez was voted Tampa Bay's Ultimate Bartender 2009. 
 
Also listed as top destinations for the bar scene are:

Fly Bar & Restaurant
Splitsville
Hattrick’s
TAPS Wine & Beer Merchants
The Retreat
Howl at the Moon

More proof that downtown Tampa is an excellent place for your Tampa Bay entertainment needs! Stay safe and perhaps I will see you out and about this holiday weekend!

Stay tuned for more things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hi everyone! Jessica here, telling you about my exciting morning here in Tampa.  I had the privilege, along with the Tampa Bay Film Commission, of receiving a private tour of the Big Cat Rescue Center!
 
This non-profit educational sanctuary is a 501(c)3 charity dedicated to the care of exotic cats. The trained senior caregivers along with numerous volunteers and interns maintain the grounds of this fascinating sanctuary while ensuring visitor safety. The 45 acre large Big Cat Rescue Center is home to 200 animals, including more than 100 big cats (representing 20 species and sub species of wild cats). Their mission is to provide permanent homes for unwanted wildcats while educating the public in order to eliminate the causes of abandonment and abuse among these animals. 
 
This was a great opportunity to learn about numerous big cat species as well as come face to face with some of the rarest breeds in the big cat world. My favorite was the cougar, Enya! (She started purring & even whispered a cute “meow” as we walked away).
 
So, if you are looking for a neat experience while in Tampa Bay I would suggest checking out this great site. Big Cat Rescue is one of the best Tampa Bay tours… but don’t worry about the donation cost because all of the proceeds go straight to the healthy care of the animals. Check out <bigcatrescue.org> for more information.
 
I look forward to keeping you posted on more exciting Tampa Bay Area events & Tampa tourism!!
 

Hey everyone!  Travis here with an update about an event this weekend at MOSI.  Given the time of year it is, this is an event that you need to make it out to.  It's the 2009 Hurricane Expo at MOSI! 

Here are the details -

The City of Tampa and Hillsborough County, in conjunction with the Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), will host the 2009 Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 30, at MOSI.  Admission to the Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo is FREE!

This year, the Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo theme is “Run From the Water, Hide From the Wind” and will feature seminars on the importance staying safe this season by knowing the possible threats to your community, knowing your evacuation zone, and what preparation steps to take if you are required to evacuate your home due to an impending hurricane.

The 2009 Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo has been added to the list of drop-off sites for the multi-county initiative, Operation Medicine Cabinet™. The City of Temple Terrace Police Department will be responsible for the collection of unused or expired medications during the Expo.

But there's a ton more info on this event, so go to www.tampabayhurricaneexpo.com to get more details.  Attendees will also get great deals on exhibits at MOSI, so make sure you take a look. 

Until next time, keep checking back for other updates on great Tampa Bay area events and other things to do in Tampa Bay. 
 

Hey everyone! It's Lisa here and I am here to tell you about something that is FREE, educational and fun taking place at one of our Tampa Florida attractions this summer!

MOSI and Moffitt Cancer Center will be offering free educational lectures to the public this summer! Talks will focus on nutrition, lung cancer, smoking cessation and sun safety, something I am sure we could all use a refresher on! 

All lectures will be held from 10:30-11:30 a.m. at the museum located at 4801 E. Fowler Ave. Lecture attendees will receive a discount to Gunther von Hagens’ Body Worlds, The Original Exhibition of Real Human Bodies & The Story of the Heart - a must-see!
 

The schedule is as follows:

“The Secret of Eating More and Weighing Less”

Kathy Allen, director of Nutrition Therapy at Moffitt

Wednesday, May 20

“Lung Cancer and Chemoprevention”

Dr. Jhanelle Gray, member of the Thoracic Oncology Program at Moffitt, and Tim Estrella, coordinator of Clinical Research

Wednesday, June 3

“Smoking Cessation”

Nancy Olliver, Inpatient Smoking Cessation Nurse

Wednesday, June 10

“Sun Safety and Skin Cancer Awareness”

Dr. Jonathan Zager, member of the Cutaneous Oncology Program at Moffitt

Tuesday, June 23

Get in to MOSI this summer for your free lecture and your discounted admission to BODY WOLRDS! Stay tuned for more things to do in Tampa Bay.

See you there,
~Cheers!

Hey everyone...Travis here with some info that I had to share.  If you are familiar with South Tampa at all (and probably even if you aren't) you've heard of MacDinton's.  This place has some of the best Tampa Bay area events around!!!!

Well, last week, MacDinton’s launched a pioneering initiative to promote responsible drinking and optimize road safety within the South Tampa area.

By partnering with designated driver company Zingo, MacDinton’s is offering all their patrons a free service to drive customers and their vehicles home, seven-days-a-week! 

We all know that some bars have offered free taxi rides during specific holidays, the MacDinton’s-Zingo association ensures that all customers have the option to utilize the Zingo designated driver service – for free – every day of the year.

Here's a quote from one of the co-owners of MacDinton's - “We are committed to improving safety on our highways,” said Barry O’Conner, “we live in a car-centric social environment and by partnering with Zingo we aim to dramatically reduce the risk of accidents and the number of DUI’s throughout our community.”

Plus, with over 2,000 customers visiting MacDinton’s each week, many of who leave their vehicles in the neighboring streets overnight, this would certainly help out the parking situation! 

There's the quick scoop!  But if you want to learn more about MacDinton's, head over to www.macdintons.com.  And if you're interested in finding out more about Zingo, read below:

Zingo Transportation Inc. was established in Atlanta, GA in 2005 and currently operates within 22 cities and 8 states throughout North America. Unlike a regular taxi service, Zingo’s trained and qualified designated drivers chauffeur both the clients and their vehicles safely home, utilizing collapsible motor-scooters that fit in the trunk of any sized car.

Once the vehicle and clients are safely at their residence, the Zingo designated driver continues on to the next customer using the Zingo motor-scooter. Zingo Tampa has been serving the community since 2007, garnering praise and acknowledgement from Hillsborough County Sherriff David Gee and Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio.

Until next time, stayed tuned for information about great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay area events and information.

Hi Gang. A quick apology for the typo in Monday's blog entry about the Tampa Bay Video Awards hosted by TBCN. I said I would have the results Tuesday but the event was Tuesday night so unless I posses a pyschic ability I am currently unaware of, that's clearly not possible. Alas, here are the results from last night's Tampa Bay Video Awards hosted by Tampa BAy Community Network.

Rising Star Award
The Last One 
Garrett Brown 
Animation Student

Rising Star Award
The Rescuers 
Mark Schonbrun 
Documentary Non-Professional

Rising Star Award 
The Making of  “My Canary Yellow Pumps” 
Krystal Brown 
Documentary Professional

1st  Place
Street Buzz: On the set with Exotic Elegance 
Krystal Brown 
Entertainment Professional

2nd  Place
Unpredictable 
Audrey “Pat” McGhee
Entertainment Professional
    
1st  Place
Skimming the Surface 
Alexis Muellner & Joni Godlove 
Entertainment Non-Professional

2nd  Place
Coasting in Unusual Dimensions 
Alexis Muellner 
Entertainment Non-Professional

3rd  Place
The Short-E Show 
Erik Mishiyev 
Entertainment Non-Professional
    
Rising Star Award
Traditional Joropo Dancing 
Al Frederick 
Ethnic/Cultural Non-Professional
    
1st  Place
Autistic License 
Mark Schonbrun 
Fine/Performing Arts Non-Professional

2nd  Place
The Barbers 
Ron Dunham 
Fine/Performing Arts Non-Professional

3rd  Place
Esimena & the Indigo Snake 
Mariette Coulter 
Fine/Performing Arts Non-Professional
    
Rising Star Award
Talk of the Town: The Gardasil Debate 
Jeanette Abrahamsen 
Informational Student

1st  Place
Tampa Grapevine – November 12, 2008 
Dean S. Chambers
Informational Non-Professional

2nd  Place
Tampa Grapevine – Grateful American Coin Organization 
Dean S. Chambers 
Informational Non-Professional

3rd  Place
Spirit of Cigar City 
Greg Huskin 
Informational Non-Professional
    
Rising Star Award
I Wish Josh Poole 
Inspirational Student

1st  Place
Freedom Today 
Donna Cameron-Cepeda 
Inspirational Non-Professional

2nd  Place
Surgery of the Soul 
Mark Schonbrun 
Inspirational Non-Professional

3rd  Place
Manifesting Sons 
Katherine Walton 
Inspirational Non-Professional
    
1st  Place
Tampa Grapevine – September 11th  Special 
Dean S. Chambers 
News Non-Professional

2nd  Place
Tampa Grapevine – November 19 2008 
Dean S. Chambers
News Non-Professional
    
Rising Star Award 
School Daze 
Josh Poole 
Stop Motion 
Student

Rising Star Award
Sisters Slumber Party – Safer Sex PSA 
Jeff Haynes 
Sports/Health/
Fitness Non-Professional

It was a great event - very well executed by TBCN. I look forward to next year! 

Dont forget - the Sunscreen Film Festival kicks off tonight with Patrick Wilson's  film Passengers. Wilson will be in attendance. Ticket information can be found by clicking here.

And to those of you who've expressed concern over my safety after my Mexican honeymoon, fear not. No piggy flu for me. Healthy as can be! 

Until tomorrow...

Hey gang!  Travis here with some information that you will want to take note of.  Save the date for the 2009 Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo.  It's May 30 from 9am to 2pm at a great Tampa Bay attraction, MOSI in North Tampa!  Now, we always do our best to bring you the latest Tampa Bay emergency information, but if you can, attend this and hear it for yourself!  

The City of Tampa and Hillsborough County are hosting this event...and it's FREE to attend!  Plus, Hurricane Expo guests can enjoy MOSI exhibit galleries and one standard IMAX® Dome Theatre* film for only $8 per person.

This year, the Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo theme is “Run From the Water, Hide From the Wind” and will feature seminars on the importance staying safe this season by knowing the possible threats to your community, knowing your evacuation zone, and what preparation steps to take if you are required to evacuate your home due to an impending hurricane.

Here's some info from MOSI - 

Held in Kids In Charge! The Children’s Science Center at MOSI, the expo will feature over 40 vendors, educational seminars, emergency vehicles, giveaways (while supplies last) and much more! Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo attendees will enjoy a family-fun event complete with youth activities, presentations by city and county departments and community partners, a special appearance by Dan Noah of the National Weather Service and over 450 hands-on science exhibits inside the Museum of Science & Industry!

Tampa Bay Hurricane Expo guests can also enjoy Gunther von Hagens’ BODY WORLDS & The Story of the Heart, MOSI’s entire exhibit galleries and one standard IMAX Dome Theatre film for only $17 per person (special engagement films not included). For this price guests can tour a unique collection of over 200 authentic human specimens, including whole-body plastinates, organs and translucent body slices inside BODY WORLDS & The Story of the Heart, and experience Disasterville featuring WeatherQuest, a 10,000-square-foot exhibition on floods, hail, lightning, tsunamis and volcanoes, including immersion theatres that demonstrate what it’s like to be in an earthquake, hurricane, tornado and wildfire.

And there you have it...so make sure you make plans to be there!  Head over to www.tampabayhurricaneexpo.com to get more info on the event.

Hey everyone! Lisa here...If you're a planner like me then you'll be glad to know that MOSI has released their upcoming summer events!

Be Inspired by Van Gogh
Join MOSI on May 8 at 6 p.m. for Starry Night, an evening of appreciation of Van Gogh’s works and the night sky that inspired them. Enjoy samples of Van Gogh Vodka, Hors d'oeuvres, the IMAX® Dome Theatre film Van Gogh: Brush with Genius, private Saunders Planetarium shows and the ambiance perfect for a date night. $30 per adult, $50 for couples. Special member pricing: $25 per adult, $40 for couples. Call (813) 987-6000 to make your reservations.
Childcare available: Let MOSI’s certified education staff engage your child with science activities, games and pizza while you enjoy an evening with Van Gogh! $25 for the first child (12 and under), and $15 dollars for each additional child.

Spoil Mom this Mother’s Day!
Mother’s Day Tea
May 9 & 10, 2009, Seatings at 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
MOSI’s Mother’s Day Tea includes a high tea service, a symbolic adoption of a Cassius Blue Butterfly through the Adopt-A-Butterfly program, admission to MOSI exhibit galleries and one standard IMAX® Dome Theatre film including a unique opportunity to sip tea surrounded by free-flying butterflies in the BioWorks Butterfly Garden! Advance reservations required, please call (813) 987-6000.  $24.95 for adults, $19.95 for children 12 and under. Special member pricing: $19.95 for adults, $14.95 for children 12 and under. Call (813) 987-6000 to make your reservation.

Does your Mom make your heart flutter? MOSI’s Adopt-A-Butterfly program offers symbolic butterfly adoptions for mom or that special someone starting at just $25! Honorees receive an official adoption notice, a personalized butterfly certificate and butterfly photo. Visit www.mosigiving.org or call (813) 987-6077 for details.

Watchmen: The IMAX® Experience
IMAX Dome Theatre
Showing March 28 thru May 2009
The eagerly-awaited movie adaptation of the most celebrated graphic novel of our time opens in the IMAX Dome Theatre at MOSI.  From the director of the wildly successful 300, Watchmen has been digitally re-mastered into the unparalleled image and sound quality of The IMAX Experience® and is shown on the five-story, dome-shaped screen of the IMAX Dome Theatre. Visit www.mosi.org for show times.

Calling all Klingons and Vulcans!
June 20, 2009, 3 p.m.
Gather up your crew for the summer movie event for all generations- Star Trek: The IMAX® Experience.  Join MOSI on Stardate -314466.24 (June 20 at 3 p.m.) as we learn of Captain Kirk’s youth and celebrate everything Star Trek. Event will include entertainment and sci-fi characters. Call (813) 987-6000 to reserve your tickets.

BODY WORLDS & The Story of the Heart
Now open for a limited engagement, ends June 28, 2009
For the first time in Florida, MOSI proudly debuts Gunther von Hagens’ BODY WORLDS & The Story of the Heart. Dr. Gunther von Hagens is the world's leading public anatomist and originator of contemporary anatomical exhibitions. BODY WORLDS & The Story of the Heart offers insights on the human body and disease, and looks closely at the heart—revealing through the lens of anatomy, cardiology, psychology and culture how this four-chambered muscle nourishes, regulates and sustains life. Advance ticket purchase strongly encouraged. Visit www.mosi.org. Pricing: Adults $25.95, Seniors (60+) $22.45, Children (2-12) $19.95. Special group rates available. Special member pricing: $16.00 Adults, $12.00 Child (2-12), and $13.50 Seniors (60+)

ANIMATION, an all-new summer exhibition
Opens July 10 – Sept. 7, 2009
Join MOSI on a quest to understand how animation really works! Enter the exciting and visually rich world of ANIMATION, a highly interactive traveling exhibition that brings together art, math, science, and technology. Visitors will explore the process of animation surrounded by colorful larger-than-life graphics of popular cartoon and animation characters from Cartoon Network. Pricing: Adults $23.95, Seniors (60+) $22.95, Children (2-12) $19.95. MOSI members are FREE! Special group rates available.
 
Kids In Charge! 4th-Year Birthday Bash!
July 11, 2009, inside Kids In Charge! The Children’s Science Center
Join MOSI for the Kids In Charge! Children’s Science Center 4th-year Birthday Bash! On this special day, junior guests can enjoy birthday cake, party hat making station, face painting and explore visual world of cartoon animation inside ANIMATION, the exhibition!  This event is FREE with paid admission. MOSI members are FREE!
 
Back to School Health & Safety Expo
August 8, 2009, 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.
Jump start your child's school year during MOSI’s Back to School Health & Safety Expo! Learn wellness and child safety tips from community partners and get information on local children's resources, afterschool programs, tutors, children's retailers and more!  This event is FREE with paid admission. MOSI members are FREE! 

Events like these are happening throughout the year, so even is by some chance we don't post a month's events, log on to www.FloridaStateFair.com and take a look at their events calendar so you can plan your daily Tampa Bay tour.  But, since we are here today to tell you about them, here we go - 

March 3 - May 8: Rural Home Life Spring School Tours (ongoing weekly)
Held in Cracker Country, students can spend a morning immersed in a rural Florida community of the past. By engaging in hands-on activities, they will learn about the differences and similarities between their modern lives and those of children in 1898. These spring tours are held Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. through May 8. Admission cost is $5 per student; one teacher/chaperone is admitted free for every 10 paid students and additional adult admission is $5 each. Reservations are required in advance to attend a tour. Parking is free for these student tours. Group visitors must enter the Fairgrounds via the Orient Road entrance. To make a reservation, please call 813-627-4225 on Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, visit online www.crackercountry.org, contact Susan Obarski by e-mail obarsks@doacs.state.fl.us or call 813-627-4225.

March 3-7: Gasparilla Charity Horse Show
Held in the Charlie Lykes Arena, the 24th annual Gasparilla Charity Horse Show continues its long established tradition of supporting Tampa's charities. Over the years, proceeds from this equestrian event have contributed over $150,000 to local charities. The five-day show features Saddlebreds, Morgans, Roadsters and Harness Ponies. Please inquire with the show office for performance times and entry fees to participate. Admission and parking are free for spectators. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the Orient Road entrance. For more information, visit online http://gasparillacharity.org, e-mail jbquade@gasparillacharity.org or call Joanne Quade at 813-839-3476.

March 7-8: Spring Home Show
Florida's Largest Home Show, produced by Turner Exposition Corporation, provides a one-stop marketplace to see the latest products and services in remodeling, decorating, landscaping and furnishings for the home. Held in the Expo Hall, event hours are 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 are admitted free with an adult. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus for each time a vehicle enters the grounds. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the U.S. Hwy. 301 entrance. For more information, visit www.bighomeshow.com, e-mail turnerexpo@aol.com, or call Turner Exposition at 813-677-6925.

March 7-8: Tampa Reptile Mania & Exotic Pet Expo
Thousands of reptiles, small mammals, birds, pet supplies and more will be on sale during this two-day event. There will be live shows and activities throughout the day. Held in the Sweetbay Entertainment Hall, event hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on both days. Adult admission is $8 per person; children five and younger are admitted free. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus for each time a vehicle enters the grounds. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the U.S. Hwy. 301 entrance. For more information, visit online www.gilaproductions.com, e-mail lex@gilaproductions.com or call Alex Russell at 919-495-3233.

March 7-8: Fossil Fest
The Tampa Bay Fossil Club hosts its annual Fossil Fest in the Charles M. Davis Special Events Center. This event will appeal to anyone who loves science and nature, or has a penchant for history and adventure. Visitors can see fossils from around the world, artifacts, gems and minerals, exhibits and displays. Seminars will be held on both days to teach people how and where to legally hunt for fossils and artifacts, and how to identify them and prepare them for display. In addition, the popular children's fossil mine allows kids to dig through a sand pit and recover authentic fossils donated by club members; plus kids get to keep everything they find! Event hours are Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $5 for adults and children ages 12 and younger are admitted free. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus for each time a vehicle enters the grounds. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the M.L.K., Jr. Blvd. entrance. For more information, visit online www.tampabayfossilclub.com, contact Mike Searle by e-mail fossilnerd@msn.com or call 813-909-9358.

March 12: MPI Annual Meetings Marketplace
The Tampa Bay area chapter of MPI presents the 8th annual Meetings Marketplace held in the Florida Center & Botanical Gardens. Registration begins at 1:30 p.m. and the program starts at 2:30 p.m. More than 100 meeting planners are expected to attend the important industry event. An interactive education session will give attendees some "green" ideas to use in planning for an event. The cost to attend is $35 for members/planners/students and $45 for a non-member. Everyone registered to attend the education session and tradeshow will receive a gift certificate to Gallagher’s Steak House and be eligible for more prizes. Parking is complimentary for this event only, courtesy of the Fair Authority. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the M.L.K., Jr. Blvd. entrance. For more information, visit www.tampabaympi.org.  

March 13-15: Woodworking Shows
Take your craftsmanship to the next level by attending this woodworking event showcasing national and local exhibitors in the Sweetbay Entertainment Hall. Find the latest in tools and techniques for woodworkers and DIY'ers. Attend one of many free classes and hands-on clinics during the three-day event. Show hours are Friday from 12 to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is $9 at the door for ages 13 and older and free for children 12 and younger. Purchase discounted tickets in advance online at www.thewoodworkingshows.com for a single or three-day admission pass. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus for each time a vehicle enters the grounds. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the U.S. Hwy. 301 entrance. For more information, visit online www.thewoodworkingshows.com, e-mail teale@thewoodworkingshows.com or call 401-253-2531.

March 21: Concert – WiLD Splash '09 Music Festival
The WiLD Splash music festival is the annual event of the hip hop radio station Wild 98.7 FM. Artists scheduled to perform at the Ford Amphitheatre include Busta Rhymes, Soulja Boy, Sean Kingston, Slim Thug, Movado and Serani. Gate is scheduled to open at 4 p.m.; concert begins at 5 p.m. Ticket prices are $40 for PIT section (general admission) and $46, $36, $24 and $14 for reserved seating. The lawn is closed for this event. Prices include sales tax and parking; all tickets are subject to applicable taxes, service and handling charges. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via U.S. Hwy. 301 or the M.L.K., Jr. Blvd. entrance. Only guests with VIP parking should enter through Orient Road. Tickets to all Ford Amphitheatre events can be purchased in person at the Ford Amphitheatre Box office or online exclusively at www.livenation.com. Tickets can also be purchased by phone by calling 877-598-8698. There will be a Box Office Service Charge added to the price of each ticket. All dates, acts and ticket prices are subject to change without notice. Rain or shine. For the latest concert information about Ford Amphitheatre events, visit online www.livenation.com or call 813-740-2446.

March 27-29: Florida Independent Tow Show
Unified Trade Shows presents this three-day event for the towing and recovery business that will showcase trucks and equipment both indoors and outdoors at the Fairgrounds. Vendors will have hands-on demonstrations, an on-site ride and drive course featuring the latest model chassis from leading truck manufacturers, and much more. This family event even includes something geared for the kids offering supervised towing safety seminars, games and prizes. Event hours are Friday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free. Parking is $5 per car or $10 per RV or bus for each time a vehicle enters the grounds. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the U.S. Hwy. 301 entrance. For more information, visit online www.unifiedtradeshows.com or call 239-334-4874.

March 31-April 4: Tournament of Champions (Winter Equestrian Festival)
Presented by Stadium Jumping, this horse competition is the culmination of the Winter Equestrian Festival held at the Bob Thomas Equestrian Center. The USEF-sanctioned show features amateur-owner, adult amateur, junior, and children competing in jumper and hunter divisions. The 2009 Tampa Series Hunter High Score Circuit Awards will be presented during the Budweiser American Invitational on the evening of April 4 in Raymond James Stadium to the horses that have accumulated the most points throughout the three-week festival. Please inquire with the show office for performance times and entry fees to participate. Admission and parking is free. Visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the Orient Road entrance. For more information, visit online www.stadiumjumping.com or call Stadium Jumping at 813-253-2782.

And those are just a few of the events happening throughout the month.  Like I said, log on to the website and take a look for yourself.  And if you make it out to any of the events, let us know how they were!  

As always, keep coming back and checking for more great things to do in Tampa Bay!  We'll keep bringing you the best Tampa Bay entertainment, as long as you keep checking back and letting us know how the events were.  

Until next time, get out and enjoy that beautiful Tampa Bay weather!