Westshore District

Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore Hotel Celebrates 1 Year!!!

Monday, March 8, 2010 by Convention Sales

Congratulations to our friends and partners over at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore Hotel who celebrated their 1 year anniversary this year this past weekend!

For those of you who haven't visited or stayed at this property, let me be the first one to tell you that this Florida Green Lodging Certified hotel excels in all areas from meeting space, to courtesy of staff, cleanliness, rates, and social events amongst many other great accolades.

This gorgeous hotel features over 14,000 sq. ft. of flexible banquet, meeting space and pre-function space. Having attended a meeting or two there before, I can vouch for how amazing this place is! Whether you want to hold your associations annual board of directors meeting, or use the space for your wedding reception, you can't really go wrong with doing it here as from the moment you start planning to the time you leave, you'll have a dedicated Crowne Meetings Director working with you to pull of the perfect meeting.

As far as accolades go, if you didn't me believe me when I said this place is awesome, then just take my word for it , as they have been winning more awards than Avatar lately (can you tell I was up late watching the Oscar's).

2009 InterContinental Hotels Group Renovation Award
2009 InterContinental Hotels Group Meeting Service Excellence Award
2009 Florida West Coast Chapter National Association of Catering Executives venue of the Year Award

I am sure there are plenty more to come in the near future with the way these guys have been been working hard to make sure all of their guests feel at home. If you remember a while back, I wrote about some of the great events they do after hours for guests.

Along with all of the other great things about the Crowne, you can also go onto their website and find great packages and deals for your family vacation, girlfriend getaway, mancation, or other themed vacation ideas.

Long story short, these guys have it all, and after year one of the renovations, you can bet your tail its only going to get better! Again though, you don't have to take my word for it, just call or book directly and see for yourself!

This is Jerm signing off for now, but be sure to check back for more Tampa Bay hotel updates from the Westshore District!

Wedding Bells at the Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport!!

Thursday, March 4, 2010 by Tampa Bay & Company

Director of Catering, Cat
Jepsen choosing the winning Bride!

Greetings Tampa ~ Jessica here with an update from one of our many Tampa Bay hotels ... the new Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport Westshore hotel, after just completing a multi-million dollar renovation, has started giving back to the community by hosting a wonderful wedding giveaway!

The hotel chose a lucky bride and groom to receive a fabulous $5,000 wedding package to plan their special day at the Sheraton Suites! They announced their winners just after Valentine's Day and the winner's wedding is scheduled for April... the soon-to-be-married couple are both active duty military stationed in two different states. The Director of Catering was pleased to pick such a deserving and appreciative couple.

The hotel plans to do more exciting promotions, like this one, in the months to come... of course, we'll keep you up to date on the activities, but to learn more about this beautifully renovated property yourself, visit www.sheraton.com/tampaairport.

Congratulations again to the future Mr. & Mrs.!!!

Pediatric Cancer Patients Are Stars on the Runway

Wednesday, March 3, 2010 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis back with one of my absolute favorite Tampa Bay area events of the year! Local celebrities will once again be escorting some of Tampa’s finest models in the seventh annual "Fashion Funds the Cure," benefiting the Pediatric Cancer Foundation.

From 6pm to 9pm on Tuesday, March 9, SAKS FIFTH AVENUE (the one at Westshore Plaza) will close for a private evening of shopping, dining and an exclusive fashion show premiering some of spring’s hottest styles.

Some of the girls featured throughout the fashion show will model much more than clothing. Each of these special ladies has battled pediatric cancer – some are still undergoing treatments and some are celebrating remission. Professional models will also hit the runway wearing the latest fashions.

Additionally, the evening’s silent auction will feature fabulous trips, pampering spa treatments, jewelry, art and more. Local restaurants including The Palm, Flemings, The Melting Pot, and A La Carte Event Pavilion will be serving hors d’oeuvres.

Plus, there'll be celebrities!!!! This year’s celebrity host is Carson Kressley. An accomplished stylist, Kressley is one of the stars of the hit original series "Queer Eye For The Straight Guy" on the Bravo Network. He is now the host of Lifetime’s makeover show, “How to Look Good Naked.”

Other local celebrities expected to attend are players from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Lightning and Rays as well as other local media personalities.

This is a great event that raises much needed funds! The 2009 event brought in over $300,000 for the Foundation, funding research and hope for children with cancer.

The cost of admission to the show is $100, which provides guests a full evening of wining and dining, the opportunity to bid in our high-end silent auction and enjoy the incredible fashion show. Patron tickets are also available for $250 which includes a listing in the event program.

If you're interested, advance reservations can be made by calling the Foundation at 813-269-0955. In addition, 10% of all in-store purchases for the evening will be donated to PCF. And if you need even more info, just visit www.fastercure.org.

So if you can, come out and support this event! And as always, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, and other Tampa Bay entertainment options.

MacDinton's Official March 2010 Bar of the Month for US Soccer...

Wednesday, March 3, 2010 by jeremy fairley

As a South Tampa resident, soccer fan, and avid MacDinton's customer this is one post that I am super proud to write! Recently Tampa's own MacDinton's Irish Pub was named US Soccer Official US Soccer Bar of the Month!

MacDinton’s Irish Pub, embraces the local soccer community and is a loyal supporter of the U.S. National Teams. Last week during the U.S. Men’s National Team 2-1 victory over El Salvador, our friends over at MacDinton’s offered local fans a chance to attend their official viewing party at the establishment and also, if they so chose, take part in their group ticket sales game at nearby Raymond James Stadium.

As Jerm can attest to, in addition to the U.S. Soccer related matches, MacDinton’s also features the English Premier League, Champions League and La Liga matches. Being a huge Manchester United fan, I am frequently out at MacDintons on weekend morning's to watch the games on Santa Sports that I can't get on regular cable.

An assortment of live bands and special events also decorate MacDinton’s calendar. Did I mention the food is awesome also? And I don't mean just awesome bar food, I am talking about awesome food in general. I have yet to sample anything on that menu that I wouldn't recommend to anyone.

If you’re a Tampa-based soccer aficionado searching for some live music and need a place to sport your green for St. Patty’s Day, MacDinton’s is the place for you. Be sure to check out MacDinton's today for the USA vs Netherlands match at 2:30pm, as our boys look to take on the powerful Dutch team as they continue preparations for this summers World Cup!

Congratulations to the crew at MacDinton’s on being the U.S. Soccer Bar of the Month for March! Stay tuned in for more updates on Tampa Bay dining and Tampa Bay nightlife as well!

Meet the winner of Sheraton Suites Tampa Westshore Wedding Giveaway!

Wednesday, February 24, 2010 by Partner Pulse

Hello everyone, Catherina Jepsen here with a big announcement! Who’s the lucky bride? Meet the winner of Sheraton Suites Tampa Westshore Wedding Giveaway!

The brand new beautiful, multi-million dollar renovated Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport Westshore just keeps getting better! The hotel selected the lucky bride and groom for their wedding giveaway on Valentines Day.

Bride, Kathi Padilla and Groom, Harrison Sumerall, from Tampa, Florida won the fabulous $5,000 wedding giveaway. Bride and Groom were so appreciative for their gift and truly happy with the relief of financial help towards their dream wedding on
April 3, 2010.

Both bride and groom are active military and stationed in two different states. I was so excited to have picked such a deserving and appreciative couple!

On April 3, 2010, the big day will be shared with their loved ones at the beautiful Sheraton Suites Tampa, in the largest tropical atriums in the area.

The beautiful hotel offers a fantasyland feel, which creates a sense of drama, intimacy and romance. The luxury ballroom will provide the perfect setting for their wedding ceremony and reception.

Signing off now, but be sure to stay tuned in for more Sheraton Tampa Bay hotel updates! Congrats again to our winners!

Social Fresh Tampa = Awesome!

Wednesday, February 17, 2010 by jeremy fairley

Wow, am I seriously late in writing this blog post! Sorry about that folks, as this past week just so many things just seemed to keep popping up around here! Well I have some time now and I wanted to share my experience about Social Fresh! If I can sum it in in a few words, i would say "It Was Awesome!"

There were over 250 excited attendees at the conference which was held in the beautiful westshore district at the DoubleTree Hotel Tampa Airport Westshore last Monday February 8, 2011.

Jerm was in attendance and I got to see allot of old faces as well as some new, as a good mix of some of our Tampa Bay & Company partners were on hand to learn new and exciting things in social media marketing as well as contribute new ideas to their initiatives that they themselves have seen success from.

Companies like Busch Gardens, The Florida Aquarium, Aquaknox, The Westin Tampa Bay, The Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, as well as a few local agencies like FKQ Marketing, Magnetic, and Bayshore Solutions were all well represented!

It was a great opportunity to measure your self against some pretty serious brands and compare their social media marketing efforts with your own. I especially was impressed with John Bernier, of Best Buy and the way in which they are using this new medium as an extension of their customer support function. Ever heard of the Best Buy Twelpforce? If no, then check out the Twitter account and give it a look, as its a pretty sweet concept.

Other items for discussion at the event focused around a number of topics like: community building, corporate blogging, the future of social media (4square & GoWalla) and a great presentation on crisis response through social media by Chris Barger of General Motors.

I even got to meet one of our biggest Twitter fans as Allison Barkley, aka was in attendance!

Overall, it was a great job by Jason Keath, and all of the Social Fresh staff and volunteers and I truly hope that we can bring the event back to Tampa in the near future! For now, its on to Portland for the next Social Fresh event, so if you live in PDX, and haven't registered for the event yet, be sure to do so, as I am sure it will fill up quickly!

That's it for now, and be sure to stay tuned in for more updates on future Tampa Bay area events!

Seasons 52... I Think I Love You!!!

Friday, February 12, 2010 by Bay Bloggers

Once again I think the title says it all on this one! I just got back from a preview lunch at one of the newest members of the Westshore district, Seasons 52 on this abnormally gloomy rainy cold day here in Tampa, and boy is my belly full!

Not full in a stuffed can barely walk kind of way, but full in the sense that I am just right there ya know, which is an awesome place to be! But there I go again rambling, so lets get to telling you a little about Seasons 52.

First off I have to just talk about the look and feel of the place when you walk in. For those of you who like to spend time at the bar, this is probably the biggest indoor bar I have ever seen...lol.

The entire place has the casual feel of a first class restaurant, and just has a sort of a quiet sophistication about it. I have a feel that Seasons is going to creep into the Tampa Bay nightlife category pretty soon, as its the perfect place to unwind after a long day, bring some friends from out of town and just relax with a few drinks, a girls night out!

For the purpose of this preview lunch, we got to order from a pre selected menu of goodies for the appetizer, entree, as well as dessert. To start off I ordered the Housemade Sonoma Goat Cheese Ravioli, and my friend ordered the Grilled Steak & Cremini Mushroom Flatbread. Both items came out very quickly and seeing as how we were both pretty hungry, we scarfed them up and were ready for the next course. Again there were a few options on this menu, but if you want to see for yourself, everything that is offered, check out the lunch menu.

Next was on to the entree. I normally only have a salad every blue moon, but when I first saw the item "BBQ Chicken Salad" on the menu, my eyes lit up like fluorescent light bulbs!

My friend was in the mood for fish so she ordered the Cedar Plank Atlantic Salmon, and both entrees were amazing. At first we weren't sure whether to eat the food or simply take pictures of it, as its a beautiful presentation. My salad actually came out in a cylinder type apparatus, which was pretty cool!

Throughout the meal, our server Cassie was pretty awesome, and you know I hold my servers to a very high standard. She kept my sprite glass full the entire time and was always around when we needed something else. Its the little things like that as far as service that will see Seasons 52 here for a long time!

Now onto dessert we went! Cassie brings out this awesome tray of individual servings of classic desserts, sort of like little shot glasses, or dessert shooters is another term I have heard them called.

So many choices to choose from we had the market fresh fruit and mocha macchiato dishes and they were amazing! Some of the others we had to choose from were:

Key Lime Pie
Old-Fashioned Carrot Cake
Pecan Pie with Vanilla Mousse
Market Fresh Fruit
Mocha Macchiato
and a few more that escape my memory

Now some cool things that I failed to mention earlier. Seasons 52 menu is seasonally-inspired with the fresh appeal of the farmer’s market. That is where the name comes from because much of the menu is seasonal, and changes each week during the year, hence the name "Seasons 52."

It's also a pretty good option if you are looking to eat healthy as nothing on the entire menu is over 475 calories, which is amazing considering the options you have!

As I said earlier, I was pretty full, but not to the point where I needed to be wheel barrowed out of the front door. I could go on and on about this place, but if you want more info, just check out the website menu area.

All in all, you can't go wrong with Seasons 52. The service is just as good as the food and atmosphere. I'll definitely be back to dine there again, so I hope you guys will follow my lead and give it a try! Be sure to tell'em Jerm sent you!

That's it for now folks, but stay tuned in for updates on the and Tampa Bay dining and Happy Valentines Day to all you lovers out there!

Training Camp Roster Named for USA vs El Salvador at Raymond James Stadium!!!

Friday, February 5, 2010 by Bay Bloggers

Hello there soccer fans! Jerm here with an exciting update about the US National Team and upcoming preparations for the game vs El Salvador!

Coach Bob Bradley recently announced his roster that will descend upon Tampa Bay for the upcoming game on February 24, 2010 at Raymond James Stadium! Here is the roster, so I hope your favorite players will be playing, and if you haven't already done so, be sure to get your tickets!

GOALKEEPERS (3): Troy Perkins (D.C. United), Nick Rimando (Real Salt Lake), Zach Thornton (Chivas USA)

DEFENDERS (7): Kevin Alston (New England Revolution), Jonathan Bornstein (Chivas USA), Omar Gonzalez (Los Angeles Galaxy), Chad Marshall (Columbus Crew), Michael Orozco (Philadelphia Union), Heath Pearce (FC Dallas), Marvell Wynne (Toronto FC)

MIDFIELDERS (9): Kyle Beckerman (Real Salt Lake), Geoff Cameron (Houston Dynamo), Brad Davis (Houston Dynamo), Brad Evans (Seattle Sounders), Eddie Gaven (Columbus Crew), Sacha Kljestan (Chivas USA), Dax McCarty (FC Dallas), Chris Pontius (D.C. United), Robbie Rogers (Columbus Crew)

FORWARDS (4): Conor Casey (Colorado Rapids), Brian Ching (Houston Dynamo), Jeff Cunningham (FC Dallas), Robbie Findley (Real Salt Lake)

That's it for now gang, but be sure to check out our website for game day details and such! Stay tuned in for more updates on Tampa Bay area events and things to do in Tampa Bay!

Tampa Bay Dining at St. James Restuarant & Lounge...

Monday, February 1, 2010 by Bay Bloggers

Hello gang, Jerm here with a update about a place I went to last week! I had lunch with a client over at the newly renovated Sheraton Suites Tampa Airport Westshore last week and had lunch at the St. James Restaurant & Lounge, the dining venue located on the first floor.

St. James Restaurant & Lounge serves premium fare in a casual atmosphere. It was as about as relaxed and laid back as one can imagine, which is great when you need to step away for a minute and unwind to some good food!

Speaking of food! Oh yeah, you knew that was coming especially since Jerm has been a bit of a piglet lately, but I can't help myself with all of the grate Tampa Bay dining options we have here in this area.

First off, if you go there, you have to start off with the bacon wrapped shrimp and grits! Yes you heard that correctly, bacon wrapped shrimp and grits! That's three of my favorite things all on one plate. Being from the south, I grew up on grits and its always a good day when I get to have some, and these bad boys don't disappoint. As far as the bacon wrapped shrimp goes...well that speaks for itself. I am generally very picky about my seafood, but I would pretty much eat anything that you wrapped in bacon!

After the appetizer, believe it or not I was still hungry, and actually needed to continue stuffing my face. Took one look at the menu (actually more than one look) and saw the hamburger sliders on the menu! In case you didn't know...hamburger sliders = heaven. Food came out pretty fast, and in a flash I was chowing down! As you can imagine, dessert was not happening, since I was a tad bit full, but that just gives me another reason to go back!

Don't get me wrong though as while the food is good, St. James offers a great sports bar setting so feel free to stop by for the big game, or just to wind down for happy hour!

That's it for now from me folks, but be sure to drop back by as we give you the low-down on all of the great dining related things to do in Tampa Bay options!

Take 5 on the Terrace at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore...

Thursday, January 28, 2010 by Bay Bloggers

Whatsup everybody! Hope your day has gotten off to a good start! Jerm here to tell you about one of our newest yet coolest Tampa Bay nightlife options for those of you that like to go out and unwind after work!

Our friends over at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore are at it again with their new Take 5 on the Terrace happy hour! Well actually its not a happy hour, more along the lines of a casual lounge experience on the terrace.

Its perfect for when you want to unwind from one of those long 10 hour days like the ones I seem to find myself working often these days. Open from 5pm until 10pm and offering $5 drink and $5 appetizer specials, you have plenty of time to unwind, whether that is from the special food menu created for these events, or the specialty drinks!

I must admit that I am looking forward to trying out the southwestern chicken sliders as well as the bang bang shrimp. As for my beverage of choice, I am going to be sampling the "french kiss" as I have never had one of those before... the drink I mean. As far as the other "french kiss," to quote Ace Ventura "That's none of your business and I'll thank you to stay out of my personal affairs." Lol just joking guys!

Be sure to check out the menu and see for yourself all of the goodies they have to offer! With the long days I have been having here, you will very likely seen me there as well! Just another case of our friends over at the Crowne, changing it up on us and offering somethign just a little bit different!

Thats it for now folks, but check back soon for future updates on nightlife related things to do in Tampa Bay!

Lunch at the Mezzo Restaurant & Lounge...

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by Bay Bloggers

Yesterday I was really starving and wanted a bit of a change of pace for lunch ya know

I work in downtown Tampa, and while the food here is awesome, its always good to venture out and try something new!

So I called up a good friend of mine and we decided to take a trip over to the trendy Westshore district and try out a new place I had been wanting to go to! I had been hearing from a friend I know who works over in Westshore at an office building about a nice little trendy spot over in the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore hotel called the Mezzo Restaurant & Lounge, and decided to try it out.

It took me a while to go over the menu, as there is plenty to choose from, but I finally settled on the roast beef panini! Added some fries to that and I had myself a meal?

Now for those of you that haven't been there yet, let me give you a mental picture: Roast beef, boursin cheese, shaved red onion and vine ripe tomato, served on a ciabatta roll! I will give you a few minutes to wipe the drool from your mouth... Okay are you done yet.... good, lets keep moving!

Normally I am a vacuum cleaner and inhale whatever it is that is on the plate in front of me, but honestly guys, this filled me up to the point to where I had to box it and take it home for dinner...which isn't at a bad thing since Jerm can't cook to save his life.

Don't get it twisted though, not only can you grab a meal at the Mezzo, but feel free to unwind in the lobby lounge with your favorite beverage. Hours of operation are from 11:00am until 12:00am!

Lastly, The Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore is proud to brew up your favorite specialty coffee. Located on the lobby level. What more could you ask for a complete Tampa Bay dining experience!

Well that's it for now gang... stay tuned in for more updates on where to eat in Tampa Bay!

Another Reason to Stay at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore...

Wednesday, January 27, 2010 by Convention Sales

Okay, so just when I thought I couldn't think of any more reasons to tell people to stay at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore hotel, they keep giving me reasons to come on here and type my chunky fingers off!

If you are fortunate enough to be staying at this amazing property, the staff would like you to come out on Tuesday nights and enjoy the Manager's Reception out on the Terrace free for guests with complimentary hors d'oeuvres and beverages!

A Night on the Terrace at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore!

While out there enjoying yourselves, you even get to meet other guests staying at the hotel and even meet and chat it up with the hotel management staff!

In the event of inclement or cold weather, the show moves inside to the hotel Pre-Function Space, or the 11th floor hospitality suite, which are both great meeting spaces!

I just happened to show up last night and there was a good group of people there mingling and enjoying the food, company, and open bar of course! I kept it simple though and only had a Coke, seeing as how I am saving my energy this for my birthday this weekend!

All in all it was a good night and a great event not only for me, but for the guests as well! If your trying to narrow it down between which hotel to hold your Tampa Bay meetings at, make sure the Crowne is on or at the top of that list, as they go the extra mile and do the little things (like this event) to make you feel more at home!

That's it for me now gang, but be sure to check back for more Tampa Bay hotel updates like this one and the many other great properties in the bay area!

Tampa Bay Meetings at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore...

Monday, January 25, 2010 by Convention Sales

Hey gang, Jerm here with an update for all of my meeting planner peeps out there! It seems like I am writing allot about the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore lately, but they are either always winning cool awards, or posting great deals on our website! Well this post continues much of the same as boy have they got a deal for you meeting planners!

This hotel was already a perfect spot for the business traveler, but with deal, not only can you enjoy great convenience, but your planning budget will love it as well! Located less than 2 miles from Tampa International Airport (TPA) and situated right in the heart of the Westshore business district. Only 5 miles from downtown Tampa, Tampa Bay Convention Center and within minutes of all major highways. The hotel is also walking distance to the Westshore Plaza.

Enough of me yammering, here are the meat and potatoes of the deal!

Book and Hold Your Meetings by June 01, 2010 and Receive:

50% SAVINGS ON MEETING ROOM RENTAL
20% SAVINGS ON ALL FOOD & BEVERAGE
COMPLIMENTARY WIRELESS INTERNET
DOUBLE POINTS OR AIRLINE MILEAGE FOR NEW OR CURRENT PRIORITY CLUB MEMBERS
PREFERRED RATES AVAILABLE FOR GROUPS WITH 10 OR MORE SLEEPING ROOMS ON PEAK

For more information or to book your next meeting, please call 813-287-1050 or email them.

That's it for this update, but be sure to check back for more deals on Tampa Bay meetings in our famed Westshore district!

Congrats to the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore...

Friday, January 22, 2010 by Convention Sales

How is everyone doing this fine Friday morning! I myself am suffering from a bit of insomnia as I haven't slept in roughly the past 24 hours.

Don't really know why that's happening but I wanted to make sure that I could summon enough energy to tell you about a cool award(s) for one of our Tampa Bay hotel properties located in the lovely Westshore district!

As one of Tampa's newest premier hotels, the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore offers a uniqueness all its own that can perhaps be best described as modern and fresh, yet elegantly posh. It seems like only yesterday this place first opened up its newly "transformed" doors, and they are already winning awards!

The Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore was recently named the Florida West Coast Chapter National Association of Catering Executives 2009 Venue of the Year Award! Now keep in mind that this is in addition to to two other awards these guys won last year, in the form of the IHG (InterContinental Hotels Group) 2009 Renovations Award, as well as the IHG 2009 Meetings Service Excellence Award for the 2nd Quarter.

At this rate of winning awards, they are going to have to convert one of the executive suites into a trophy room here shortly! A great team effort, by the staff over there is sure to be the reason for the early as well as continued success as they forge on into 2010. Mark Jerm's words when he says this won't be the last award to be won!

I am working on setting up a tour of the place and getting you some pictures, so that in addition to my kind words, you will have a visual element to base your decision on when you call and book your hotel stay! For what its worth though, guests who spend a few nights here will be thoroughly impressed with all that the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore has to offer!

That's all for now from Jerm, but stay tuned in for more info on hotel related Tampa Bay meetings news and events from us!

The US Continues Push for World Cup Soccer!

Tuesday, January 19, 2010 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey gang! Travis back with some information you may have heard, but then again, some of you may not, so I'm sharing anyways! I'll just share it as I got it -

The United States will face El Salvador on Feb. 24 in Tampa, Fla., in their second-to-last match before naming the roster for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. Kickoff at Raymond James Stadium is set for 7pm, and the match will be broadcast live on ESPN Classic and TeleFutura. Fans can also follow the match live online via ussoccer.com’s MatchTracker or twitter.com/ussoccer.

Tickets ranging in price levels from $18 to $68, plus special VIP On-Field Seats for $150, go on sale to the public Thursday, Jan. 21, at 10 a.m. ET through ussoccer.com, by phone at 1-800-745-3000 and at all Ticketmaster ticket centers throughout the Tampa Bay area (including many FYE stores).

Groups of 20 or more can obtain an order form at ussoccer.com or call 312-528-1290. Ultimate Fan Tickets (special VIP packages which include a premium ticket, a custom made official U.S. national team jersey with name and number, VIP access to the field before and after the game, and other unique benefits) are also available exclusively through ussoccer.com.

As a sponsor of U.S. Soccer, Visa® is pleased to offer all Visa cardholders access to an advance ticket sale for this match before the sale to the general public. This advance sale starts tomorrow, Jan. 20, at 8am and runs until Thursday, Jan. 21, at 8 a.m. at ussoccer.com. Visa will be the only payment method accepted through the Visa presale and is the preferred card of U.S. Soccer. Terms and conditions apply.

“El Salvador proved to be a strong team in the final round of qualifying, and will pose a good test for this group,” said U.S. head coach Bob Bradley. “This game will be an important part of our preparations, providing us with one of the last opportunities to evaluate the players being considered for the World Cup roster. We are excited about the chance to return to Tampa, a community which has a long tradition of supporting soccer.”

The United States is 14-1-5 all-time versus El Salvador, with 45 goals scored and 13 surrendered. The only loss came Feb. 19, 1992, in a friendly in San Salvador. The teams last met during the final round of 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifying, with Clint Dempsey and Jozy Altidore scoring to earn a 2-1 come-from-behind victory on Sept. 5, 2009, in Sandy, Utah. El Salvador was one of the surprise teams in the CONCACAF region during 2010 qualifying, making it to the final round for the first time in 12 years and beating both Mexico and Costa Rica in San Salvador in 2009.

So, why is this a big deal you ask...well, in case you havent' heard, Tampa, one of 18 cities that will be included in the USA’s bid to host the FIFA World Cup in 2018 or 2022, will be hosting the U.S. team for the fifth time. In the last visit, Landon Donovan recorded the second hat trick of his career in front of a record-setting crowd for a friendly in the state of Florida as the U.S. cruised to a 3-1 victory on March 25, 2007, against Ecuador at Raymond James Stadium. The U.S. has a 2-1-1 record in Tampa, with the other win coming in 1990 against Finland.

Following the match against El Salvador, the U.S. will travel to face the third-ranked Netherlands on March 3 in Amsterdam. Kickoff at the Amsterdam ArenA is set for 8:30 p.m. local time (2:30 p.m. ET), and the match will be broadcast live on ESPN2 and TeleFutura. The match falls on the only international fixture date before the start of the tournament in South Africa, and will be the USA’s final game before naming the World Cup roster in early May.

So, hosting this game is a great thing for Tampa Bay. Make sure you head out and enjoy in the festivities!!! And as always, keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay and awesome Tampa Bay area events.

Calling All Brides... It's A Wedding Show by the Bay!!!

Thursday, January 14, 2010 by Bay Bloggers

Calling all brides...calling all brides! Jerm here with an update that I know many of you will like!

Join our friends over at the Double Tree Guest Suites Tampa Bay for a Wedding Show located on the tranquil blue waters of Rocky Point Island, the perfect location for intimate weddings...sunset ceremonies, poolside cocktails and waterfront receptions in our Bayside Terrace Tent.

Preferred local vendors, great gifts, hotel tours, fantastic food, champagne tasting, and of course breath taking views!!!

I am quite sure that it doesn't get any better than that guys, so be sure to get over there and see what all they have to offer! For more info on this event, contact our good friend Brian Williams at 813-739-8816!

The Doubletree Guest Suites Tampa Bay hotel is an all-suite hotel located on the water overlooking Tampa Bay in the Rocky Point business area and moments from the Westshore District.

Oh yeah, and I almost forgot! The event will take place on January 24, 2010 from 12-4pm, so be there or be square!

Stay tuned in for more updates in things to do in Tampa Bay!

2 Monster Jam Shows Coming to Tampa

Monday, January 11, 2010 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone...Travis back with some information about some great Tampa Bay entertainment. For the first time in the Tampa Bay area, Feld Motor Sports, Inc. will present two Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam® events at Raymond James Stadium.

After selling out for the past eight years in a row (since 2002), and turning away thousands of fans that wanted to see the show but could not get tickets, Feld Motor Sports is offering Bay area fans another opportunity to see and feel the excitement of Monster Jam.

Raymond James Stadium will erupt on both nights, January 23 and February 6, when 1,500 horsepower, 10,000-pound Monster Trucks compete in Side-by-Side Racing, as well as the fan-favorite Freestyle competition, where trucks will go one at a time and have 90 seconds to awe the crowd with huge big-air jumps, wheelies, truck spinning donuts, and the destruction of cars, vans, buses, and even motor homes.

Again, the dates are Saturday, January 23 at 7:30pm and February 6 at 7:30pm and tickets for both events are available at all Ticketmaster outlets, charge by phone at 800-745-3000, or online at www.ticketmaster.com.

And of course tickets will also be available at the Raymond James Stadium Box Office beginning January 18. Oh, did I mention that tickets start at $15...now that's a great deal for some awesome entertainment.

For more information, just visit www.monsterjam.com. We'll post some more updates as they come along, but keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay and other Tampa Bay area events.

Social Fresh Makes its Way to Tampa!

Monday, January 11, 2010 by Bay Bloggers

So many events, so little time! In addition to the great lineup of Tampa Bay area events we have lined up for January, we have plenty more coming in the month of February. So to kick off the month, our friends over at the Doubletree Hotel Tampa Westshore Airport, bring you Social Fresh Tampa!

Now for those of you that are not familiar with, please let me explain! Social Fresh is a social media event planning and training company based out of Charlotte, NC. Social Fresh was founded by Jason Keath, who does social media consulting for mid to large companies.

This is a great event for experienced Social Media users in addition to those who are looking to find out more about Social Media and how it can help their business or organization.

This Social Fresh event will be the second event of 2010. In addition to being a warm Florida destination (well not with the recent weather we've been having) Tampa is without question a marketing hot bed for Social Media marketing.

The content and programming will reflect all Social Fresh flagship events with big brands and real social media success stories, all specifically for marketing professionals.

Believe me folks when I say that this lineup of speakers if a group of powerhouses, and one of the best speaker lineups you will see anywhere.

If you don't believe me, then check out the list for yourself! It's pretty much a who's who of big Brand and Agency Social Media gurus, so you had better start registering and reserving your hotels!

Jerm is going to try his best to make it, so I hope to see everyone else there! That's all for now, but be sure to stay tuned in for more updates as we draw closer to the event!

Check back with me soon for more updates on events in the Westshore district!

InterContinental Tampa Hits Home Run with Spring Training Package

Saturday, January 9, 2010 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hi everyone...Travis back with another update from the InterContinental Tampa! Here are the details:

WHO: InterContinental Tampa is centrally located in the heart of Tampa Bay offering guests the most convenient access to

world-class shopping, dining, entertainment, sports and the area’s most memorable attractions, including George Steinbrenner

( Legends) Field.

WHAT: Visitors can score big by sliding into InterContinental Tampa’s Spring Training package. The package includes:

• 25 percent discount off the best available rate for deluxe accommodations – rates begin at just $142 per night

• Fan Tool Kit, complete with a team-specific chocolate amenity, baseball for signing, Cracker Jacks, peanuts, popcorn,

Bazooka gum, soda, and the lyrics and history of the song, “Take Me Out to the Ballgame.”

WHEN: Mar.1-Apr.4, 2010

WHY: InterContinental Tampa has the home field advantage, being conveniently located to all the fan-favorites including

the World Champion New York Yankees, Philadelphia Phillies and the Toronto Blue Jays.

WHERE: InterContinental Tampa - convenient to downtown Tampa and Tampa International Airport - is the ultimate baseball fan

getaway, with a rooftop pool offering spectacular views of the bay and city; a state-of-the-art fitness center; and

outstanding on-site dining at the world-famous Shula’s Steak House.

InterContinental Tampa surrounds guests in contemporary comfort and offers personalized service from a gracious and friendly

staff in a warm, distinctive atmosphere. The InterContinental Tampa’s award-winning “In the Know” concierge directs guests

to popular Tampa Bay destinations, as well as local hideaways.

HOW: To reserve the Spring Training package at InterContinental Tampa, please call (866) 402-0758 and mention rate code

ILQGA or visit www.intercontampa.com. Please mention favorite baseball team at the time of reservation.

what a great deal, so take advantage!!! and we'll see you back here for more updates about Tampa Bay hotels, as well as info

about great things to do in Tampa Bay and great Tampa Bay area events.

The Florida Resident Special at the Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore!

Thursday, December 10, 2009 by Convention Sales

Hey everyone! Back with more Tampa Bay hotel updates and great things to do in Tampa Bay. We are heading back to the Crown Plaza Tampa Westshore for a great deal for Floridians!

Florida residents are invited to view the beautiful Crowne Plaza Tampa Westshore at a special discounted rate of $99!!!!! I mean, really, this is a great deal!

This rate is good for any day of the week and is available through the end of the year, so you have to act soon!

Other amenities of the hotel included in the rate are High Speed Wireless Internet, airport transportation, limited transportation within a 3 mile radius, self parking, and daily USA Today.

Just remember that state issued identification is required at check-in. So, for reservations, just call 1-866-676-0902 and mention "Visit Florida" with rate code "ILVTF", or go here.