The Columbia Restaurant is Celebrating a Century of History, Culture, and Cuisine

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Travis back with a Tampa Tourism update that I know you'll be eating up.  Here's the info right from the Restaurant's mouth!

The legendary Columbia Restaurant has returned with a new book to tantalize the taste buds and imagination. 

In 1994, The Columbia Restaurant Spanish Cookbook won acclaim with its blend of history and cuisine.  The saga continues in the new release:  The Columbia Restaurant:  Celebrating a Century of History, Culture, and Cuisine.  

Over 100 years of The Columbia’s history comes to life in 300+ colorful pages, illustrated with many new color and black and white photos along with stories from the Hernandez Gonzmart family members, employees, business partners and long time customers.
 
This book will delight home cooks, offering seventy-seven new, authentic recipes and theme menus for the holidays, Sunday brunch, wine tastings, and cocktail parties.  Learn simple and elaborate dishes made famous by the Columbia.

History buffs will enjoy the newly-researched origins of The Columbia and stories of its early struggles through Prohibition and Depression.

Watch The Columbia’s glamorous rise during the 1950s, when it throbbed with romantic music supplied by Third Generation Family Member Cesar Gonzmart and his magic violin.   Federal bulldozers lurked in the 1960s, as urban renewal demolished much of the old Latin Quarter.  In the 80s, new locations meant new opportunities and risks.  Somehow, the Gonzmart family made the struggle look easy. 

A death in the family prompted a business crisis in the 1990s that threatened the Columbia as it neared its centennial.  Quick thinking and hard work salvaged the sinking ship and charted her into the 21st Century.  The voices of employees, family members, and friends help tell the Columbia’s colorful and fascinating story.

Published in October 2009, The Columbia Restaurant:  Celebrating a Century of History, Culture, and Cuisine is available for 29.95 at any Columbia Restaurant, or at their website: www.columbiarestaurant.com.

So, make sure you get a little bit of the Columbia's history for yourself.  And as always, keep checking back for more great Tampa tourism updates, as well as great things to do in Tampa Bay.
 

DaVinci Revealed at MOSI!!!

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hi all!  Travis back with some really cool Tampa Bay entertainment options, no matter who you are!  You can bet that you'll catch me at this exhibit more than once. 

We are heading out to MOSI for a brand new exhibit that will be there from Feb. 13 - May 31, 2010.  DaVinci The Genius and the Secrets of the Mona Lisa will be at MOSI, Tampa’s Museum of Science and Industry, for this limited engagement.

This is the exhibition’s first appearance in the southeastern United States and will shed light on DaVinci’s contributions to modern science.

While DaVinci is widely known for his Renaissance era artwork – he had numerous contributions to the fields of science and technology. From mankind’s first flying machines and scuba gear to musical and time-keeping instruments, DaVinci’s well documented thoughts helped to create some of the world’s greatest inventions.

DaVinci – The Genius takes visitors on a journey through DaVinci’s thoughts, with reproductions of his most famous renaissance art in actual size, a series of anatomical sketches, and entertaining and educational presentations in 3D of the Mona Lisa, The Last Supper, the Vitruvian Man and the Sforza Horse. 

The exhibition includes opportunities for visitors to try several of DaVinci’s inventions. Plus, children can express their genius by participating in activities in the DaVinci children’s area.

The Secrets of Mona Lisa, uses patented infrared technology and intense illumination to scan the Mona Lisa and virtually peel away layers of varnish applied over centuries. The camera was able to uncover how the Mona Lisa looked as she was originally painted, including layers of over-painting, restoration and attempts at preservation – even identifying the individual pigments that DaVinci used. 

These amazing revelations are displayed in gallery style and in full on super size, high resolution prints, with the largest being the 14 ft x 10 ft giant infrared of Mona Lisa.

Throughout the exhibition’s run, MOSI will be offering a number of DaVinci events, including artist sketch nights, Italian cooking demonstrations, young inventors events and a DaVinci discussion series.

and there's the scoop.  If you want more info, just visit www.mosi.org.  Like I said, look for me because I'll certainly be out there a bunch. 

Keep checking back for updates about this exhibit (because there'll certainly be others), as well as updates about other great things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

Shop Till You Drop at Ellenton Prime Outlets for Black Friday!!!

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Bay Bloggers
Can you believe its almost the holiday season! Like I really needed any more reasons to spend money shopping in Tampa Bay and filling my belly with holiday treats!

Are you feeling the holiday excitement yet? You will at Prime Outlets for the Ellenton Fourth Annual Midnight Madness Pajama Jam Event taking place at midnight on Friday, November 27 (Black Friday). 

As normal with all Black Friday events, I would suggest you get there early in order to try and beat the lines of eager shoppers waiting to get their hands on some of the years hottest deals. While your out there, please feel free to pick me up a 50+ inch flat-screen and have it delivered to my house! Yes, wishful thinking I know, but it can't hurt to ask!

Stay tuned for more info about Tampa Bay area events and updates from Jerm!


The Florida Orchestra in December

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone!  Travis here with some Tampa Bay area events, hosted by the Florida Orchestra, during December.  So strap your sleigh bells on because here we go!

Dec. 2: An Intimate Collaboration, The Austrian Way Highlighting Music by Beethoven & Bruckner. 

As a multi-cultural prelude to The Florida Orchestra’s next Masterworks concert, The Studio@620 and The Florida Orchestra present An Intimate Collaboration: The Austrian Way, with discussion, music, and other art forms related to Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto and Bruckner’s Symphony No. 6 featured on the Masterworks series on December 4 and 6.

An Intimate Collaboration: The Austrian Way takes place Wednesday, December 2, at 7:30 pm at The Studio@620 located at 620 First Avenue South in downtown St. Petersburg. Seating is limited and reservations are required.  Suggested donation $10. To place a reservation, call 727.895.6620 or visit www.studio620.org.


Dec. 4 & 6: Masterworks: Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto.  The youngest winner ever of the International Beethoven Competition in Vienna, Stefan Vladar performs Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5 with its flowing, gliding and sparkling melodic gifts on a program with Bruckner’s majestic and soaring Symphony No. 6.

It's Fri, Dec 4, 8 pm at Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center - Carol Morsani Hall, and on Sun, Dec 6, 7:30 pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall.  Tickets are: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67. 

Pre-Concert Conversation: All Masterworks programs offer a pre-concert talk about the music and the composers in the concert hall beginning one hour prior to curtain.

Dec. 10: Coffee Concerts: Opera’s Greatest Hits - Alastair Willis conducts this morning Coffee Concert that features Verdi’s Traviata, Prelude to Act III, Puccini’s La Boheme, and Rossini’s Overture: Italian Girl in Algiers.

Don’t miss the pre-concert conversation and complimentary coffee and donuts one hour before the concert. It's Thurs, Dec 10, 11 am at Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater. 

Pre-Concert Conversation: All Coffee Concert programs offer a pre-concert talk about the music and the composers in the concert hall beginning one hour prior to curtain.  tickets are: $24, $29, $34, $42

Dec. 11-13: A Holiday Pops - Sure to put a smile on your face and good cheer in your heart, treat yourself and your family to a sleigh load of musical chestnuts, favorite yuletide tunes and Christmas carols with your orchestra and the soaring voices of The Master Chorale of Tampa Bay.

It's Fri, Dec 11, 8 pm at Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center - Carol Morsani Hall; Sat, Dec 12, 8 pm at Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater; and Sun, Dec 13, 7:30 pm at Ruth Eckerd Hall.  Tickets are: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67

Dec. 16: Special Concert - Cherish the Ladies: A Celtic Christmas: 

Hailed by The New York Times as “passionate, tender and rambunctious” and singled out by The Washington Post as “an astonishing array of virtuosity,” the Irish traditional music and dance group, Cherish the Ladies, will toast the holiday season with their wondrous weaving of Irish vocals, old-world airs and tug-on-your-heartstrings yuletide tunes with fiddles, flutes, penny whistles, guitar, banjo, accordion, mandolin and even some step dancing.

It takes place on Wed, Dec 16, 8 pm at Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater, and tickets are: $25, $40, $55, $70

So, make sure you get out and enjoy one of the many events that the Florida Orchestra has in December. 

And keep checking back here for info about other Tampa Bay area events and great things to do in Tampa Bay. 
 

Cigar Heritage Festival 2009 Happens Tomorrow

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone!  Travis back with some Tampa Bay entertainment in one of my favorite areas of Tampa Bay...historic Ybor City! 

Anyone and everyone can come join the fun and ambiance of Ybor City for a day of activities celebrating the rich cigar heritage that once made Tampa the "Cigar Capital of the World."

Join thousands of cigar enthusiasts at the 11th annual Cigar Heritage Festival!  You can see master cigar makers Wallace and Margarita Reyes attempt to break the record for "World's Longest Cigar."

The current US Record Holder was in 2006...which was 30.78 meters.  I mean, how cool would that be??!! 

Plus, you can shop the World's Finest Cigars, including Cuesta Rey, Arturo Fuente, Rocky Patel, Camacho, 601, and many more!

Also, there'll be a Kid Zone, Food Court, Cigar Accessories, Tours of the Ybor City Museum State Park, Cigar Rolling, Live Entertainment, Charity Beer Garden, Authentic Cultural Food Vendors, Cultural Activities For The Whole Family, the Ybor City Fresh Market, and the list just keeps going! 

And for all of you sports fans, they have you covered too, because there'll be a Game Zone featuring NCAA Football, Poker, Dominos, & More! 

It all happens in CENTENNIAL PARK in YBOR CITY (on 9th Ave. between 18th and 19th Streets).  It's tomorrow from 10am to 5pm, so make plans to stop by during the day!  You can bet you'll see me out there. 

Have a great time everyone!  And keep checking back here for other Tampa Bay area events and other great things to do in Tampa Bay! 
 

MOSI Hosts Scrabble Fun Day!

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone!  Travis back with more fun Tampa Bay entertainment options for you.  We are heading back to the largest science center in the Southeast US...MOSI!

In celebration of National Game and Puzzle Week, MOSI will be hosting a SCRABBLE Fun Day with puzzling activities for the whole family.

On November 28, from 11 am to 3 pm, visitors can challenge players from the National SCRABBLE Players Association to a competitive style game.

Guests can also watch two SCRABBLE experts play each other and learn the strategies and ideas behind competitive play. Additionally, the National SCRABBLE Players Association will be displaying SCRABBLE memorabilia and boards.

The Fun Day will take place inside Mindbender Mansion, MOSI’s limited engagement exhibit featuring brainteasers and puzzles for the whole family.

The exhibit (running through January 3) challenges visitors to unlock a series of clues and become Master Mindbenders. With more than 45 brainteasers and 5 group activities, Mindbender Mansion has activities the whole family can enjoy.

If you're looking for more information on Mindbender Mansion and Scrabble Fun Day visit www.mosi.org.

And as always, keep checking back for more info on Tampa Bay area events and great things to do in Tampa Bay!

The Suncoast Sports Festival: “Where All Athletes Come To Play”

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone, Ece Yilmaz here with upcoming exciting sports news that you don’t wanna miss. The Suncoast Sports Festival will be hosting sports at three different locations in Tampa January 23-24, 2010!!!

Come join our nation’s best athletes from fourteen exciting sports, as they compete against each other at the Suncoast Sports Festival in Florida State Fairgrounds, University of South Florida and Ed Radice Sports Complex. Here is more info:

FLORIDA STATE FAIR GROUNDS
Come to the Florida Fairgrounds arenas (Expo Hall and Entertainment Hall) for girls and boys AAU and USAG gymnastics, tumbling and trampoline, rhythmic gymnastics, karate, tae kwon do, baton, spirit cheerleading, spirit dance, Florida amateur wrestling, and cross country  events. 

Participating Sports:

January 23, Saturday: Girls Gymnastics, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Tramp and Tumbling, TaeKwon Do, Karate, Cheerleading, Dance

January 24, Sunday: Girls Gymnastics, Rhythmic Gymnastics, Tramp and Tumbling, Boys Gymnastics, Wrestling, Baton

Admissions:
Daily: $12 per adult, $8 for children (5-17), under 5 is free
Weekend: $17 per adult, $13 for children (5-17), under 5 is free
Parking: There will be a nominal fee for parking.


THE ED RADICE SPORTS COMPLEX
Hey baseball fans! In case you're not aware, The Ed Radice Sports Complex is hosting the IBC baseball events for The Suncoast Sports Festival.  Looks like it is going to be very exciting, so get your tickets now!

Participating Sports:

January 23-24, Saturday & Sunday: Baseball

Admissions: 
Daily: $5 per day, Children under 5 is free


UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH FLORIDA
University of South Florida will be home for synchronized swimming and basketball events of The Suncoast Sports Festival.  If you are looking for an amazing swimming show, don’t wait so long to buy your tickets!

Admissions: 
Daily: $8 per adult, $5 for children (5-17), under 5 is free
Weekend: $10 per adult, $7 for children (5-17), under 5 is free

Participating Sports:
January 23, Saturday: Basketball, Synchronized Swimming
January 24, Sunday: Basketball, Synchronized Swimming

If you don’t wanna miss all the action, there is also grand slam package for all sporting events:
$25 per person for all sporting events for adults,
$17 per person for all sporting events for children.

Enjoy the ultimate sports event in Central Florida!!! It is also Florida’s number one spot for all of the athletes in your family. Bring the whole family and enjoy everything that the SSF can offer you.  You can find more information and details about the festival at: www.allsportsinvitational.com.

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

USF Men's Soccer First NCAA Playoffs This Thursday at 7:30 pm...

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

Your USF men's soccer team returns to the USF Soccer Stadium this Thursday, Nov. 19th, to compete against Stetson Hatters in the first round of the NCAA Tournament. Kickoff is set for 7:30 p.m. CFor those of you who are unable to physically be at the game, feel free to catch all of the thrilling action by logging onto BullsVision Premium via GoUSFBulls.com for live audio streaming beginning with kickoff.

Now of course in addition to the thrill of college soccer, The University of South Florida athletics department has reserved 500 free student tickets to the men's soccer game on for this game.

The winner of this game doesnt have an easy road ahead though as whoever comes out victorius will have to play the undefeated, untied Akron Zips in secound round play. The Zips are currently ranked number one in the country and will host the next game at their stadium, and I am sure its a wee bit chilly up there!

Earlier in the season, the Bulls defeated Stetson by a scoreline of 3-0, so the odds would be in favor of USF, but thats why they play the game, because you just never know!

Be sure to come out and support the Bulls tomorrow and for more info on USF Athletics visit the GoUSFBulls.com website!

Thats all for now, and stay tuned for more Tampa Bay Sports and updates on more college athletics related Tampa Bay Area events.

Attending BBB at the Performing Arts Center

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Partner Pulse
Hey everyone...Julie here with a BBB update!  I went to Business by the Bay last night at the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center (soon to be known as the The David A. Straz, Jr.
Center for the Performing Arts
in the Carol Morsani Hall and had an ahhhhhmmmmazing time.  Waiters delivered appetizers as people sauntered around and mingled.  The setting was beautiful. 

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

2009 NCAA VOLLEYBALL CHAMPIONSHIP UPDATE!

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Josh Jones
Josh Jones here with another December event update!  We are officially one month away from the 2009 NCAA Division I Women’s Volleyball National Championship!

For the first time in the history of the tournament, the NCAA Women's Volleyball Championship is headed to the Sunshine State December 17 & 19, 2009 at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa, Florida and Tickets are on sale now!

Will # 1 Penn State continue their 92 game unbeaten streak and repeat as National Championships?  Can the # 13 Florida Gators or # 15 Florida State Seminoles make a run at the title?  Will you be there to catch all the action?

AVCA Division I Women's Top 25 Poll
(Records through November 15, 2009)
    TEAM                                   PTS   PVS
    ----                                   ---   ---
 1. PENN ST (60) (28-0)          1,500     1
 2. TEXAS (20-1)                     1,425     2
 3. HAWAII (25-2)                   1,390     3
 4. WASHINGTON (21-4)         1,265     4
 5. ILLINOIS (21-4)                 1,219     5
 6. STANFORD (18-7)               1,168     7
 7. UCLA (20-7)                       1,127     6
 8. IOWA ST (22-4)                  1,116     8
 9. NEBRASKA (19-6)                1,024     9
10. KENTUCKY (25-2)                  936    11
11. CALIFORNIA (17-8)               878    12
12. MINNESOTA (21-7)                831    13
13. FLORIDA (20-4)                     733    10
14. MICHIGAN (22-7)                   663    14
15. (tie) FLORIDA ST (25-2)         642    15
15. (tie) USC (17-9)                     642    17
17. LSU (21-5)                             558    19
18. OREGON (16-8)                     486    16
19. ARIZONA (18-7)                     469    18
20. SAINT LOUIS (22-6)                294    20
21. NORTHERN IOWA (26-2)         241    22
22. SAINT MARYS CA (19-4)           223    23
23. NOTRE DAME (20-4)                163    24
24. BAYLOR (21-7)                        99    21
25. COLORADO ST (21-7)              91    NR

Fans can purchase all session tickets to this year’s championships for $60.00 by clicking here, calling 813-301-2500 or by logging on to www.sptimesforum.com.

For all other information about the 2009 ACC Football Championship, log on to http://www.ncaa.com/sports/w-volley/champpage/w-volley-div1-index.html!

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

Holidays at Bok Tower Gardens

Tuesday, November 17, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hi All...Travis here with some great Tampa Bay entertainment options for the holidays.  We are heading out to Bok Tower Gardens this time. 

The holidays at Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales will be especially joyful with “Joy to the World” as the theme for the 15th annual Christmas at Pinewood holiday home tour November 27 through January 3.

One of Central Florida’s favorite holiday events, designers will deck the halls of the 20-room, 1930s Pinewood Estate with elegant and elaborate decorations based on verses of the popular Christmas carol, holiday traditions around the world and the joy of the season.

The Wild Hare in Winter Haven has started a new tradition this year by sponsoring The Pantry on behalf of another non-profit organization, the Lake Wales Arts Center. Designers Patti Bostick and Heather Coscia have created a whimsical Candyland filled with “Visions of Sugarplums.”

Another new decorating idea by Citizens Bank & Trust involves community-wide support from its staff and customers who have filled The Loggia with angels, birds and natural wonders to illustrate the theme song’s refrain, “And Heaven and Nature Sing.”

More than 10,000 visitors who are expected to attend the holiday home tour will be invited to vote on their favorite room designs. The top prize in the “People’s Choice” awards is the opportunity to host a private event for 25 at Pinewood Estate.

Also, visitors may purchase tickets for a drawing to win prizes that include a private dinner for eight at Pinewood Estate.

Plus, on November 28 through January 1, enjoy seasonal music during carillon concerts at 1 and 3 p.m. from the Singing Tower. On December 11 and 13, evening holiday home tours at 7 p.m. will be included with Christmas concerts featuring soprano Alana Trimmier at 7:30 p.m.
The concerts include a champagne reception. Space is limited and the cost is $38 or members $29. If you want tickets, then email phrestina@boktower.org or call 863-676-1408 for reservations.

If that wasn't enough, listen to this.  Bok Tower Gardens, open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., will feature 14 unique varieties of poinsettias on display at the Visitor Center and more than 200 red and white poinsettias at Pinewood Estate.

Holiday home tour hours are Monday-Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; Sunday 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.; Christmas Eve 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; Christmas Day 1 to 5 p.m. There is an additional fee for tickets that can be purchased at the entrance gate, Visitor Center and Pinewood Estate.

just Visit www.boktowergardens.org or call 863-676-1408 for more information.  And as always, keep checking back here for other great things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events!

It's Officially 83 Degrees in Tampa Bay!

Tuesday, November 17, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey guys!  Travis back with some cool news about a brand new source for your information about Tampa Bay!  It's called 83 Degrees, it's totally online, and here's the info straight from them:

A new economy is emerging across West Central Florida - from Tampa to Sarasota to
Clearwater to Spring Hill to Lakeland - and 83 Degrees plans to tell that story.

Today, 83 Degrees (www.83degreesmedia.com) will go live with its first weekly e-magazine, complete with features, Innovation and Job News, Development News, Q&As, and photos and videos that capture the innovative people and companies driving the Tampa Bay region's economy.

If you have news tips about things they should cover, they should be e-mailed to tips@83degreesmedia.com . They want to hear about talented people, innovations, investments, ideas, new businesses and job growth in the New Economy that reflect Tampa Bay's rising TIDE -- Talent, Innovation, Diversity, Environment.

The weekly online magazine will publish Tuesdays and be sent out free via e-mail to subscribers!  You can sign up at www.83degreesmedia.com.

So, log on and have some fun.  And keep checking back for some great things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events and news!
 

# 7 GEORGIA TECH TO PLAY IN ACC FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP!

Monday, November 16, 2009 by Josh Jones
The # 7 Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets (10-1) have won the Coastal Division of the Atlantic Coast Conference and will contest against the Atlantic Division Champion at the 2009 Dr Pepper ACC Football Championship taking place December 5 in Raymond James Stadium in Tampa Bay, Fla.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Free Ringling Bros. tickets for Food Donations!

Monday, November 16, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone!  Travis back with some important Tampa Bay entertainment news for the holidays!  This comes straight to us from our friends at Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.

In case you didn't know, the latest show is having its world debut in Tampa in January at the St. Pete Times Forum.  If you haven't heard about the show, just click here!

Well, here's how you can get free tickets:

This Friday, Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey will be giving away tickets to see the 140th Edition of The Greatest Show On Earth®, Barnum’s FUNundrumSM, a celebration of P. T. Barnum so big, it is an event 200 years in the making.

In exchange, they're asking Bay area residents to donate food to help stock the shelves at Metropolitan Ministries, to feed the needy in the Tampa Bay community this holiday season. 

Friday, November 20 from 11am to 1pm, representatives from Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey will be collecting nonperishable food items in exchange for tickets to Opening Night of the circus.

A donation of 10 items entitles each consumer to one show ticket, with a limit of four tickets per family, while supplies last. Tickets will be for the Wed. night, Jan. 6, 7:30 p.m. performance only, at the St. Pete Times Forum. 

Donations will be collected in front of the McDonald’s® Box Office at the St. Pete Times Forum, 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa, 33602, phone: 813-301-6500.

if you want more information about Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey visit www.ringling.com.

And keep checking back for other Tampa Bay area events, and info about other great things to do in Tampa Bay. 

Okay It's Wonderland Giveaway Time!

Friday, November 13, 2009 by jeremy fairley
Okay guys so here we go! One of the most anticipated shows to hit Tampa in a very long time, or at least since I got here back in 2001! Any of course, you can count on your boy as always to have a ticket giveaway going!

In case you have been under a rock for the last few months and didn't know, Wonderland the Musical will descend upon Tampa Bay from November 24- January 3, 2010!

In this world premiere of a new musical by lyricist Jack Murphy, book writers Jack Murphy and Gregory Boyd and acclaimed composer Frank Wildhorn, Alice is a children’s book writer in Manhattan who is suffering through a creative block, estranged from her husband and alienated from her daughter. It takes a trip to a strange-yet-familiar Wonderland for her to regain her life’s balance and again find the love and everyday magic that reside in us all – if we know how to look.

Today you are trying to be the lucky recipient of two tickets to the Thursday December 3 performance at 7:30pm!

Here are the rules again, just in case you forgot...1 - You have to be following us on Twitter.com (www.VisitTampaBay.com/Twitter); 2- Answer two questions about Wonderland the Musical. 3.  You have to re-tweet the original tweet in order to be eligible to win (a lot of people forget this one, so make sure you re-tweet separately); and 4 - You have to answer the question(s) on Twitter and be the first to do so.

Okay guys here we go!
  1. Name this cast member and the character she will portray in Wonderland the Musical, whose credits include on Broadway: In the Heights (four 2008 Tony Awards®), Good Vibrations. Off-Broadway: In the Heights (Drama Desk Award), Byzantium?
  2. Name this talented producer of Wonderland the Musical, who also serves as the President/Executive Director of the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center?
Alright guys there you have it! I suggest you get to answering, if you want those two tickets! I will be back around 530 to announce today's winner so happy guessing!

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

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

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Convention Sales
It is me again, Linda Mummert reporting some exciting news for the Tampa Bay area. The Tampa Museum of Art is planned to open on February 6, 2010 in downtown Tampa’s Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Basketball season has tipped off!

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Josh Jones
Josh Jones here proud to say we are 1 month away from yet another prime time event taking place this December…the ESPN SEC/BIG EAST INVITATIONAL!

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

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

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

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

The Gators will be making their fifth appearance in the building since 2003. UF reached the Second Round of the 2003 NCAA Tournament at the St. Pete Times Forum, picked up non-conference wins in 2006 and 2007 and reached the quarterfinals of the SEC Tournament at the building in March.  Meanwhile, Mississippi State will make their return to Tampa for the first time since winning the 2009 SEC Tournament Championship.
 
For more information on the tournament, please  visit www.secbigeastinvitational.com, and stay tuned for more Tampa Bay area events from your Tampa Bay team!

Florida Orchestra in December

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone...Travis back with some great Tampa Bay area events taking place in December.  We're bringing you all of the Florida Orchestra events taking place in December.  So, here we go:

December 4 & 6: Beethoven’s Emperor Concerto - As the youngest winner ever of the International Beethoven Competition Vienna, Austrian pianist Stefan Vladar makes his TFO debut performing Beethoven’s Piano Concerto No. 5, Emperor. 

Stefan Sanderling conducts this program, which also includes the TFO premiere of Anton Bruckner’s Symphony No. 6. Vladar has been a regularly featured soloist at prestigious music festivals in Salzburg, Schleswig-Holstein, Hong Kong, Osaka, Rheingau, Ludwigsburg and the respected Schubertiade in Austria. 

Show times: Fri., Dec. 4 at 8 pm, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center - Carol Morsani Hall; Sun., Dec. 6 at 7:30 pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall.  Tickets are: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67

December 11, 12 & 13: A Holiday Pops - With guest conductor Jeff Tyzik on the podium, attendees will be treated to a sleigh load of musical chestnuts, favorite yuletide tunes and best-loved Christmas carols, all with the over 150 voices of the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. 

Now in his fourteenth season as principal pops conductor of the Rochester Philharmonic, Jeff Tyzik has lead many of the top orchestras around the United States, including the Los Angeles Philharmonic, Pittsburgh Symphony, Boston Pops, Dallas Symphony, Minnesota Orchestra and Cincinnati Pops.

Show times: Fri., Dec. 11 at 8 pm, Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center - Carol Morsani Hall; Sat., Dec. 12 at 8 pm, Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater; Sun., Dec. 13 at 7:30 pm, Ruth Eckerd Hall.  Tickets are: $20, $30, $43, $53, $67

December 16: Cherish the Ladies “A Celtic Christmas” - Hailed by The New York Times as “passionate, tender and rambunctious” and singled out by The Washington Post as “an astonishing array of virtuosity,” the Irish traditional music and dance group, Cherish the Ladies, joins The Florida Orchestra for “A Celtic Christmas.” 

They will toast the holiday season with their wondrous weaving of Irish vocals, old-world airs and tug-on-your-heartstrings yuletide tunes, complete with fiddles, flutes, penny whistles, guitar, banjo, accordion, mandolin and even some step dancing.

With eleven recordings to their name, including a Grammy nomination for their “Celtic Album” with the Boston Pops, they have received numerous honors, including being selected as the Best Musical Group of the Year by BBC.  In fact, their recording “On Christmas Night” was chosen as one of the Top Christmas Albums of the Year by The New York Times, Chicago Tribune, The Village Voice and The Washington Post.

Show time: Wed., Dec. 16 at 8 pm, Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater.  Tickets are: $25, $40, $55 and $70

And of course, tickets to all performances can be purchased by calling 800-662-7286 and online at www.floridaorchestra.org.  So, get out and enjoy the holiday season with the Florida Orchestra. 

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

Star Gaze at Bok Tower Gardens

Wednesday, November 11, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone!  Travis back with some cool information from one of the best Tampa Florida attractions out there.  Bok Tower Gardens will host the 2009 Star Gaze to celebrate the 400th anniversary of the telescope. 

It all takes place on Nov. 19 beginning at 5:30 p.m., weather permitting, with November 20 as the backup date.

The astronomy class at Webber International University will have at least seven telescopes available for use. More great news...admission will be half-price, which means $5 for adults and $1.50 for ages 5-12.

If you want tickets in advance, just call 863-734-1221 or email phrestina@boktower.org.

Here's some technical info that's pretty cool too:
At this time of the month when only the thin crescent moon will fill the sky with light, more than a thousand stars should be visible at any given time as well as the planet Jupiter; Albireo, a double star in the constellation Cygnus and the “Double Cluster,” two open star clusters near the constellation Cassiopeia.

Other stellar sights include “The Keystone Cluster,” the globular star cluster in Hercules. A short introduction by Karl Gould of WIU at the Visitor Center will precede the field observation.

Gates open at 5 p.m. to explore the observation area while it’s still light and become familiar with focusing the eyepiece. Bring a small red light flashlight that can be made by placing a sheet of red plastic over the front lens of a standard AA flashlight.

A small folding chair, blankets and insect repellent are also recommended. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

Of course, you can head over to www.boktowergardens.org for the lastest information.  And definitely keep checking back here for more info about great things to do in Tampa Bay and other awesome Tampa Bay area events.
 

Charlie-PaLooza at the Seminole Hard Rock

Wednesday, November 11, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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