Tampa Bay PR Blog

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.
 

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!
 

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. 
 

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! 
 

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!

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! 
 

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!

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!
 

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. 

hey everyone!  Travis back with some really fun Tampa Bay entertainment for the holidays!  We are heading to the USF area to have some fun with one of the best Tampa Florida attractions around...MOSI! 

This Thanksgiving Break, MOSI will be offering “Camp Turkey,” which is a unique approach to learning about traditional Thanksgiving foods.

Campers will work in MOSI’s lab and experiment on classic Thanksgiving dinner items by freezing them and finding out what makes them taste the way they do.

Campers will also explore the way Native Americans prospered by making artifacts and crafts and learning hunting techniques.

Here's the REALLY fun part...children will celebrate Thanksgiving the MOSI way by launching a turkey with a catapult. (For Kindergarten – 4th Graders.)

The Camp takes place November 23, 24,and 25, from 9am to 4 pm.  Like i said, it all happens at MOSI (4801 East Fowler Avenue).  the cost to attend is $95 (for MOSI Members) and $114 (for nonmembers). 

Just head over to www.MOSI.org for more info.  And as always, keep checking back here for more info about great things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

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.
 

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.
 

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!
 

Hey everyone...Travis back with a reminder about one of my favorite Tampa Bay area events of all time. 

In just two weeks, some of the best BBQ teams in the country will come to Plant City for the Seventh Annual Plant City Pig Jam State BBQ Championship. 

What that means for the rest of us is finger linkin’ good beef brisket, pork, chicken and ribs.  From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on 11/21 top teams of elaborately equipped cooks will serve up their award winning meats at the Randy L. Larson Softball Four-Plex (That's at 1500 South Park Road).
 
In all, about 70 teams will be competing for $15K in cash and prizes in this Kansas City Barbeque Society sanctioned event, all with different cooking experiences and styles. 

Plus, there'll be plenty of opportunities during the event to chat with cooks about their grills and pits, the wood they burn and how they prepare their meats.

Kids will be entertained in the children’s play area, and sno-cones, cookies, and refreshments will be available. 

And, none of the spectators have to worry about missing Saturday football on TV.  Live telecasts of the day’s games will be broadcast in the beer pavilion.

Also, the Jason Young Band will have the crowd on their feet when they take the stage from 11a.m.-2 p.m. performing country, rock n’ roll and oldies.

Admission is free; parking is $5.

It doesn't get much better than that!!!!!!!!  So, get your appetites ready to down some BBQ!  And we'll see you back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay entertainment options.
 

Hey gang!  Travis back with some really cool Tampa Bay entertainment.  You can join members of the Florida Cattlemen’s Association and the Seminole Tribe of Florida on Saturday, November 21 at 10am as they drive a herd of cattle down Old Water Street from Morgan Street to the Tampa Bay History Center!

Yep, you heard me right!  This cattle drive is being held in conjunction with the History Center's temporary exhibit Florida Cattle Ranching: Five Centuries of Tradition, which chronicles the history and culture of one of Florida’s oldest industries.

Florida’s ranching legacy began when Spanish explorers brought cattle and horses to Florida in the 16th century. To date, cattle ranching remains an integral part of the state’s economy. 

The Florida Cattle Ranching exhibit is on display through December 19. Following the cattle drive, visitors can experience the cattle ranching lifestyle by visiting an authentic Cracker Cow Camp set up in Contanchobee Fort Brooke Park.

Within the History Center, they can watch whip making demonstrations, listen to cowboy storytelling, enjoy youth activities and get a book signed by Carlton Ward, Jr. at the Museum Store.

Watching the cattle drive and visiting the Cow Camp is free. General admission rates apply for admittance into the History Center's galleries.  If you're interested and want more info, visit www.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

Have fun with the cattle drive everyone!  and keep checking back here for other Tampa Bay area events and Tampa Florida news!
 

Hey everyone...Travis here with information about some REALLY cool Tampa Bay entertainment.  "Piano's in Ybor" will take to the streets of historic Ybor City on Nov. 14 and last through Jan. 9, 2010. 

Here's the info:
Decorated Street Pianos are appearing in cities across the world! Now there are pianos in Historic Ybor City!  "Please Play Me!" is a creative interactive public art exhibit where you, the public, get to play the pianos!

The free fingering piano keys will be available during the festive holiday season and the 2 parades in Ybor City; the Santa Fest Dec. 5th and the Outback Bowl Parade on New Years Eve. 
There'll be a PRESS Conference & Kick Off on Saturday, Nov 14th 2 PM at Centro Ybor in front of Muvico 20 Theatres.  So, if you can make it by there, definitely do! 

If you want to hear a little more about it, Preston Rudie with 10 Connects shot this great video as they were finishing the pianos - http://bit.ly/1pvoDA. 
 
And, over 300 guests attended the Sneak Preview reception...take a look at the youtube video here:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lK92NFg8r3A

So, get out there and have some fun playing the pianos!  And keep checking back here for more things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events. 
 

Hey gang!  Travis here with some cool Tampa Bay entertainment.  The University of South Florida Alumni Association announces its Super Bull XIII 2009 Homecoming events to be held next week.  Here are the details you need to know:

Monday, November 16
What: Homecoming Kick-off
Where: Marshall Center Ballroom, USF Tampa campus
When: Noon
Info: The USF Alumni Association continues its tradition of presenting the USF students with the opposing team’s (University of Louisville) mascot at the official Homecoming kick-off to burn at the November 20 Parade After-Party.

Friday, November 20
What: Parade Watch Party
Where: Gibbons Alumni Center front lawn, USF Tampa campus
When: 6:00 – 8:00 p.m.
Info: FREE event with music, games and food samplings from the Bulls Country vendors.  The Alumni Association will participate in the Homecoming parade, which begins at 7:00 p.m., with a decorated float.  

What: Serengeti Night Safari at Busch Gardens:  In collaboration with the USF Alumni Association
Where: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay
When: 9:00-11:30 p.m.
Info: Explore the sights, sounds and tastes of Africa during this one-of-a-kind experience to be held after the USF Homecoming parade. Call 1-888-800-5447 for more information and to make reservations.  Tickets are $45.00 for adults plus tax, and $25.00 for youth 5 to 16 years of age plus tax.

Saturday, November 21
What: Bulls Roast Tailgate
Where: Fenced lot outside Gates A & B at Raymond James Stadium
When: 3 hours prior to kickoff of the USF vs. Louisville game (9 a.m. tailgate for noon game)
Info: Barbeque, music, Budweiser® beer and sangria, face painters, games, FREE USF spirit supplies and scheduled appearances by Herd of Thunder, Rocky, USF Sun Dolls and Cheerleaders.  Tickets are $35 for USF Alumni Association members and $45 for non-members and can be purchased at www.USFalumni.org/bullsroast or by calling 813-974-0338.

Kickoff for the Homecoming football game against the Louisville Cardinals is at noon Saturday, November 21.  The game has been selected as the BIG EAST Network Game of the Week and will air locally on WFTS-TV ABC 28.

so, get out there and support the USF Bulls!  And we'll see you back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other awesome Tampa Bay area events!
 

Hey everyone!  Travis here with more Tampa Bay area events to help you get in to the holiday spirit. 

Now you can help MOSI Feed America! Just bring a non-perishable food item with you on your November 2- 20 visit to MOSI and receive $3 off general admission.

It's good for up to six people. Each person in group must bring in an item to be eligible for the discount.

Remember that it's only Nov. 2–20, so make your plans to come on out for a great cause.  Plus, as for Tampa Florida attractions, MOSI is at the top of the list! 

See you there.  and keep checking back for other great things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events during the holiday season!

Hey everyone!  Travis here again.  I have some cool information straight from one of the best Tampa Bay hotels in the area - the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. 

This Thanksgiving season, the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino lives up to Hard Rock International’s famous “Love All, Serve All” tagline by donating $5,000 dollars worth of Thanksgiving dinner items to help Metropolitan Ministries achieve their enormous need.

The Seminole Hard Rock Girls are dropping by the Clear Channel Helping Hands Food Drive being held at Westshore Plaza on November 20 at 7am with a truckload of meat, cereal, mixed vegetables and other highly requested items.

The Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Food Drive (being held at 2010 N. Florida Drive Ave.) is open from November 2 through December 24th. If you want to get involved, call 813.209.1000 or log onto www.metromin.org.

Then, join the 2009 Seminole Hard Rock Girls to take photos from noon until 5 pm on Friday, November 27th as Seminole Hard Rock’s elaborate holiday tree is lighted in Seminole Hard Rock’s Hotel Lobby.

Player’s club members are encouraged to bring a new toy for the Toys for Tots Gift Exchange Lottery which will also take place in the Lobby from 10am until 4pm also on November 27th in exchange for a myriad of prizes from free play to on property food credit.

Also, guests are encouraged to take an angel from the Salvation Army Angel Tree in the Lobby to donate a gift to a child in need.

So, take a page out of the Seminole Hard Rock book, and get involved this holiday season!  And as always, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay...and we'll even give you some cool idea for shopping in Tampa Bay!