What to Do

Hello there CMP Conclave attendees! Jeremy here and back with an update on some things to do in Tampa Bay for ya! It's not  gonna be all work and no play so we wanted to make sure to get your around and show you the highlights of this awesome place that we call home! Here are some quick details:

Highlights of Tampa Tour
Friday June 8, 2012
Tour Timing: 1:00pm –5:00pm

The city of Tampa comes to life as your guide highlights the area. Begin with a visit to the old Tampa Bay Hotel at the University of Tampa.

This National Historic Landmark features unique Moorish revival architecture and dramatic minarets. Soak in the splendor of days gone by as you see and hear the history of this fabulous hotel and its founder, railroad tycoon, Henry B. Plant.

A drive along beautiful Bayshore Boulevard and through the Hyde Park area will show you the diverse architecture that is Tampa.

The Florida Aquarium & Tampa’s Riverwalk
Saturday, June 9th, 2012
Tour Timing: 9:30am- 11:30am

Tampa is blessed with a beautiful waterfront and this morning you will have an opportunity to travel along that waterfront on the Riverwalk.

This will take you from the Tampa Convention Center, the Tampa Marriott Waterfront and its adjacent park, past Channelside and to the Florida Aquarium.

Along the way your guide will hear about how Tampa sprang up and thrived along this water’s edge and developed into what you see today. Once you arrive at the Aquarium you will experience the story of Florida’s water.

It's gonna be a pretty awesome tour so be sure to sign-up so you won' t miss out on this one! For more information, contact our friends over at Bay Area Destination Mangement for more info at 813-962-5888 or submit the registration form.

That's all for now, but stay tuned as we'll be back with more updates on Tampa Bay area events and other going's on!

Tampa needs your vote!  As part of their Destination USA feature, CNN Travel is pitting the two political convention cities against each other – Tampa for the Republican National Convention and Charlotte for the Democratic National Convention.  

It’s time to get creative and tell your story about Tampa!  The winner will be selected based on the posts made in favor of each city. You can show the judges why Tampa deserves the title by submitting a photo, video or short message.

We all know Tampa is a great place to live, work, and play, and now it’s time to show the world.  You can submit your vote by clicking here.

That's all for now, but get to voting and be sure to check back for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay area events!

It's almost here folks! What you ask? Well just the industry’s only exclusive meeting of CMPs that's what!

If you hadn't heard, or haven't yet registered, then I suggest you hurry up and do so! The CIC CMP Conclave is a unique event for certificants who wish to contribute to their profession.

This year's Conclave provides many opportunities for CMPs to build relationships and partner with other meeting professionals. CMPs also enhance their professional expertise by participating in exam development, attending educational sessions and networking with fellow CMPs.

Most importantly, this year's conference is right here in our own back yard in Tampa Bay at the beautiful Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina! How awesome is the Waterside you ask? Well the only way to truly tell you is to give you the top five reasons you'll love this place!

5. Scenery - Views don't get much better than this folks as the Waterside is nestled nicely along the channel riverwalk with some of Tampa Bay's most breathtaking views!

4. Ultimate Relaxation - Had a long day of meetings and sessions? For ultimate relaxation, try the spa, jacuzzi, or rooftop pool

3. Dining - You don't even have to leave the hotel to enjoy world class dining at places like Cafe Waterside, Champions Sports Bar, or Il Terrazzo. IF you feel the need to leave the hotel then have no fear as Jackson's Bistro Bar & Sushi, Cafe DuFrain, and the Channelside District are a short walk or Trolley ride away!

2. Technology - Well this is the nerd in me coming out a bit, but these days when you are away from the office, the one thing you need is reliable connectivity in your room and throughout the property!

1. Comfort - At the end of the day, you'll be spending a ton of time in your room sleeping and resting from the awesome day you just had in Tampa Bay! Here's a list of some of the in room amenities that'll make it feel just like home!

Well folks, that's all for now, but keep checking back as we'll be updating you on a regular basis about Tampa Bay meetings and fun things to in Tampa Bay for CMP Conclave!

Greetings all! Jerm here to give you the lowdown on all things Mother's Day in Tampa Bay this weekend, and boy are there plenty of things for you to do and places to take mom!

In Tampa Bay this weekend, you definitely have your pick of Mother's Day brunches throughout the are at some of the Tampa Bay area's finest dining establishments! Here's a quick list of a few of them!

Mother's Day Brunches and Dining

• Aqua Bar & Grille - AQUA's fresh colors reflect the vibrancy of the cool ocean waters. Experience an environment designed to entertain your every sense, highlighted by a water encased walk-in wine cellar and a state
  of the art open kitchen. Website - Menu

• Boizao Steakhouse - Mother's Day at Boizao mean's $29.99 per person! Website

• Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar -  Gather your family at Fleming's for a memorable Mother's Day celebration on Sunday, May 13th. They will be opening early for brunch at 11:30 am, but will have a $25 gift for your Mom no matter what time of day you choose to celebrate. Web Site

• ItalAsia - GREAT menu and VERY affordable at only $21.95 for adults and $10.95 for ages 6-12.  The menu is available on our new ItaliAsia. Web Site - Menu

• Roy's Hawaiian Fusion - Enjoy a  3-course Mother's Day Brunch starting at $29.95. All mom who dine will recieve a $20 dining card to use on their next visit.
  
  Web Site

• Yacht Starship - We’re celebrating Mother’s Day and the return of Florida’s Largest Dining Yacht in a BIG way! *The first 50 moms with parties of four or more cruise for FREE (Buy 3, Mom is free)! Call in reservations only! Offer not valid online. Restrictions apply. Subject to availability. 813-223-7999 Web Site
   
  Cruise Times
  Early Cruise                   Late Cruise
  Boards: 10:30 am           Boards: 2:00 pm
  Departs: 11:00 am          Departs: 2:30pm
  Returns: 1:00 pm           Returns: 4:30 pm
  
  Prices
  Adults: $44.95*
  Children: $29.95*
  *plus tax, port fee, and gratuity

Mother's Day Things to Do

• The Florida Aquarium - This Mother's Day treat mom to a sea of memories that she will never forget. Introduce her to our awe-inspiring Sand Tiger Sharks and over 20,000 other amazing sea creatures. Moms can enjoy free admission on May 12th and 13th with the purchase of a full paid admission. Web Site

• Henry B. Plant Museum - As our gift to all Mothers, free admission to the Henry B. Plant Museum on Mother's Day, May 13th! Bring your Mother to the Museum and let her escape to Victorian splendor at the former Tampa Bay Hotel. Web Site

• Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo - Bring mom to the Zoo for Mother’s Day and she gets in for free!  On Saturday, May 12 or Sunday, May 13, moms receive free admission with the purchase of their son’s or daughter’s full-priced admission ticket (paid ticket can be child or adult admission, as applicable). For moms to receive free ticket offer, the paid ticket must be purchased on May 12 or 13 only. Offer not combinable with other discounts. Web Site

• MOSI - May 7 & 8 - $5 Mother's Day.  Bring mom to MOSI on Saturday, May 7 or Sunday, May 8 and she gets in for only $5! Web Site

• Dinosaur World - Mom’s free on Mother’s Day (Mom receives free admission with a fully paid child admission) Web Site

• For more Mother's Day related things to do, be sure to check out 813 Area for more! Web Site

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know about a concert taking place at  The Patel Conservatory at David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts tomorrow!

Jazz Jamm is taking place on Wednesday, May 9, at 7 p.m. in the TECO Theater.

Students from the Patel Conservatory’s jazz classes will come together to perform in this jazz concert, under the direction of James W. Crumbly, Jr.

Regularly priced tickets start at $12. Tickets may be purchased by calling 813.229.STAR (7827), in person at the Straz Center Ticket Office or online at www.strazcenter.org.

The Patel Conservatory offers classes for children and adults of all experience levels in all kinds of dance, music and theater. More information about the Patel Conservatory is available by calling 813.222.1002 and by visiting www.patelconservatory.org.

Enjoy the show!

Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hey everyone!  Travis back...but with a special guest.  Scott from the Florida State Fairgrounds is going to be giving us some updates about what there is to see, do, interact with, and much more out at the Fairgrounds.  They have some really cool Tampa Bay Area Events happening, so make sure you keep checking back.  Take it away Scott -

You would never believe how hard it actually was to live 120 years ago in rural Florida.  No internet connection, no electricity, no air conditioning, and no iPhone.  Dirt roads dotted the landscape, travel was done by horse, and cattle roamed wild and was hunted by cowmen with an entrepreneurial spirit.  The word Pioneer comes to mind when thinking about these early settlers, and right here in Tampa you can experience first hand the experiences that these people had to endure.

Many places around the Tampa Bay area offer history experiences in museum settings, but none like Cracker Country Living History Museum.  This museum is part of the Florida State Fairgrounds, and is open for public events only a few times a year.  Interpreters sport bonnets and straw hats, and guests step into rural Florida’s history as it was in 1898.

See for yourself how the pioneers lived with the actual buildings that have been moved from places in Florida to be curated and refurbished on the fairgrounds.  Some of the crafts that guests will be able to participate in cutting out paper dolls, making period toys, sewing fabric dolls, cornhusk dolls, stuffing potpourri sachet, bookmark weaving, and quilting.  All of the museums buildings will be open to explore as well as being able to dip candles, twist rope, play with hoop catchers, pull and eat taffy, make a postcard, and laundry, a kids favorite.

A special event, Make and Take Craft Day on May 5th will feature craft making from the 1800’s plus all the buildings and hands-on activities that visitors enjoy.  The museum will be open from 10am - 4pm, and admission is $7 for adults, students (six to twelve years old) and senior citizens are $6, and children 5 and under are admitted free.  Additionally, all of the crafts that a visitor makes are included in the admission price.  Visit their Facebook page at “crackerycountrylivinghistory” to download a discounted admission coupon. 

So if your looking to start your weekend with a family fun activity, and your a history buff, Cracker Country is the place to be on Saturday afternoon.

And there you go...thanks Scott!  Like we said, Scott will be back with more updates about what's happening at the Florida State Fairgrounds, but next time without the introduction!! 

See everyone back here with more updates and great things to do in Tampa Bay!

Good morning Tampa Bay, Alex here with some exciting news from Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo.

With the hatching of a Marabou stork and births of a royal antelope, squirrel monkey and two waterbuck, Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is home to five spring offspring.

 In February, the Zoo had its first successful hatching of a Marabou stork and welcomed a tiny royal antelope. These new offspring can be found  nesting in Safari Africa, in a habitat adjacent to the giraffes and zebras.

 A common squirrel monkey was born March 14 to experienced mother “Cappi.” These petite primates live in large groups in moist, tropical forests throughout Central and South America. Squirrel monkeys have short grey or olive-color fur and with distinct yellowish-orange legs. Swing by Primate World to see these lively little monkeys, weighing only about 1-1.5 pounds each.

A waterbuck calf was born on March 17 and another March 24.  Unlike their name implies, waterbuck are not aquatic animals. They are a type of antelope found in savannah grasslands gallery forests and woodlands south of the Sahara.  At the Zoo, find the waterbuck herd along the path of the Safari Ride.

Make sure to check out these spring offspring during your next visit to Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo and visit all of the new offspring.

Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hello there all! Jerm here to tell you about an oldie but a goodie, over in the Rocky Point area at Aqua Bar & Grille located in the Westin Tampa Bay.

AQUA Bar & Grille's fresh colors reflect the vibrancy of the cool ocean waters for a super relaxing atmosphere. If you haven't had a chance to check it out yet, I say give it a shot, and you have plenty to choose from as they offer, breakfast, lunch, dinner , Sunday brunch, and even a bites menu! I can fully attest to how awesome the lunch menu is, as I was there today for lunch and took a stab at the skirt steak, and believe me when I tell you it was delicious!

Fulfill your every culinary craving at AQUA Bar & Grille, waterfront restaurant with global seafood flown in daily! It doesn't get much more fresh than that! AQUA Bar & Grille is designed to entertain your every sense, highlighted by a water-encased walk-in wine cellar and a state-of-the-art open kitchen, where our professionally trained chefs prepare sumptuous meals inspired by ingredients from around the globe.

One of my favorite things to do here is go out for one of the happy hour events on the weekend or after work! They are even pet friendly so you can bring Rover along with during Yappy Hours! Here are just some of the regular scheduled events going on at Aqua:

• Play by the Bay! Fridays and Saturdays - from 7 to 10 pm. Enjoy live entertainment on the patio.
• Yappy Hour! the third Saturday of each month, bring your furry friends  for happy hour, wine tastings and musical performance from 4 to 7 pm
• Happy Hour: Everyday from 4:00 pm to 7:00 pm - Enjoy special drink prices: $2.75 domestic long neck, $2 house wine, $3 well liquor

Well that's enough of me telling you how awesome this place is, I guess you need to go out and experience it for yourself!

Hello there folks! Jerm here with a tasty update for you regarding an event goin on in downtown  Tampa this Friday!

Ever wonder who makes the best burger in Tampa Bay? Well I know I have, and in my quest to gain the the knowledge of who makes the best burger, I still am trying to find that perfect one! Well wonder no more I say as this Friday at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park!

Join us and top area restaurants in this annual bragging rights competition & fundraiser for naming the “Best Burger in Tampa Bay”, with all proceeds to support Friends of The Riverwalk in their efforts to complete and activate Tampa’s Riverwalk.

With Jack Harris (Fox Radio 970 WFLA) as Master of Ceremonies, and Mayor Bob Buckhorn our Honorary Grand Marshal, a celebrity culinary judging panel will award top honors at Burger Showdown 2012 including Best Burger in Tampa Bay and Best O-T-B (Other-Than-Beef) Burger! Burger Showdown attendees will vote (with included chip) on their favorite Burger; 2012 People’s Choice Award.

Some of the restaurants competing for the title are:

Ashley Street Grille
BGR The Burger Joint
Burger 21
Champion’s Sports Bar
Chili’s
Datz
Green Iguana
Square 1 Burgers
Stacked Burgers
…and more!

As you can see, this is gonna be a pretty amazing event folks, so I suggest you get your tickets asap! That's all for now, but stay tuned for more updates on Tampa Bay dining and things to do in Tampa Bay!

Check out the website for additional information and tickets! www.BurgerShowdown.org
Questions? Email: Info@BurgerShowdown.org or call EventFest: (813) 251-3378

Hey Folks! Here are some awesome things going on this weekend in Tampa Bay! Be sure to get out of the house and enjoy it all! We know we will!

MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

98 Rockfest
98ROCK, Tampa Bay’s Rock Station, unveiled a line-up for 98ROCKFEST that will rock Tampa Bay on Saturday, April 28 at the Tampa Bay Times Forum.

This year’s impressive all-star lineup includes: Shinedown, Evanescence, Five Finger Death Punch, Halestorm, Trivium, P.O.D., Adelita's Way, Art of Dying, Otherwise and more (*artists subject to change). Tickets range from $30-$75. For more information call (813) 301-2500, visit the Tampa Bay Times Forum Website!

Cappella Music Festival
Free concert featuring Platinum Recording Artist, Sister Hazel and musical guests Miggs, Jr. Doctor, among others. Backline Music Group will host a day of outdoor music at the Cappella Music Festival featuring live musical performances, food, drinks and fun for the entire family.

General Admission is FREE‘Suite Six’ VIP package: $50 (includes front row “Best in House” seating, VIP areas and 2 complimentary cocktails, beer and/or wine). To reserve your tickets call 813.250.0011, or visit the website!

FOR THE KIDS

Mummies of the World
An incredible array of mummies and artifacts will be unwrapped for the public at Tampa's Museum of Science and Industry on Friday to reveal a haunting (some would even say creepy) collection of mummified people, pets and wildlife frozen in time.

This traveling exhibit is a rarity because it involves 21 different museums from around the world. Tickets are $18.95 for adults; $12.95 for children ages 2 to 12; $16.95 for seniors. For $5 more you can see both the mummies and the rest of MOSI, (813) 987-6000. mosi.org.

Dragon Boat Races and Asia Fest
Dragon Boat races and Asia Fest Dragons will be lurking in Garrison Channel this weekend as paddlers from across the U.S. and Canada compete to be Tampa's top dragon boat team. Meanwhile, the Asia Fest will run from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday at nearby Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, 601 Old Water St. It's free for the festival and to watch the dragon boats cruising down Garrison Channel starting at 8:30 a.m. Saturday behind the Marriott Tampa Waterside, 700 S Florida Ave., Tampa.

FOOD & WINE

SeaGrapes Wine and Food Festival
Sea Grapes Wine and Food Festival, The Florida Aquarium's annual food and wine event, set in the aquarium's exhibits, will have more than 100 fine wines, cuisine from area restaurants, live jazz, entertainment and silent auctions. Proceeds benefit aquarium youth education and conservation programs. 8 to 11 p.m. Saturday April 28. $95, $225 VIP. Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa.

Tour De France Dinner at Fleming
Join us for a memorable evening of wine appreciation as we explore the fabulous heritage of French food and wine through an exceptional five-course dinner. For more details check out our blog post, or call 813-874-9463 to make reservations!

Well folks, that's a quick round-up of all things going on this weekend! What are you up, in addition to these great events?

That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hello there Sports Fans! The Tampa Bay Sports Commission (TBSC) is seeking volunteers for the annual Game Day of Champions Soccer event.  Game Day of Champions is an annual soccer event that is organized by the Tampa Bay Sports Commission and provides Hillsborough County youth soccer teams with a special opportunity to play on the same field as the hometown USF Bulls.

The event will feature 14 teams from local youth soccer leagues, all of whom won their respective league championship. Volunteers would be asked to complete a variety of tasks including, but not limited to, team/participant registration, team escorts to designated locations, and event operations and production, among others.  

Game Day of Champions takes place this Saturday, April 28 at the University of South Florida Corbett Soccer Stadium, 4202 East Fowler Ave., Tampa, FL 33620.  

To register as a volunteer, please contact Tony Diaz at TDiaz@VisitTampaBay.com. That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more things to do in Tampa Bay related updates!

 

Hello there folks! Jerm here with another update for you on one of my favorite annual events coming up this weekend!

Sea Grapes Fine Wine and Food Festival is an elegant evening benefiting the Florida Aquarium’s education and conservation programs including sponsored admissions for underserved youth, sea turtle rehabilitation, seahorse conservation and coral farm propagation.

Be prepared to enjoy a fun night with great people, food, drink and music in the form of :

• More Than 100 Wines Provided By Total Wine & More
• Cuisine From 25 Premier Bay Area Restaurants
• Unique & Exciting Auction Items
• Enjoy Live Jazz & Entertainment Throughout The Aquarium
• Explore All Aquarium Exhibits

Now as always, we got you covered for a chance to win a pair of tickets to this awesome event! All you gotta do is play along with us in some trivia to be entered to win!

If you have never played trivia with us before, don't worry as its pretty simple! All you have to do is answer correctly the three trivia questions below on Facebook or Twitter and you enter yourself in for a chance to win the tickets!

Enough of my babbling, here are the trivia questions:

• True or False: Lisa Casalino and the Vodkanauts will headline the entertainment at this year's SeaGrapes Festival?
• True or False: The VIP Connoisseur's Club early admission begins at 6:00p.m.?
• This delicious cupcake maker has two locations in the Tampa Bay area and will be supplying some sweet treats at this year's SeaGrape's Festival?

Okay folks, there you have it! I suggest you get to answering, as we'll be posting the winners later this evening. And even if you don't win today, this is definitely one event you won't want to miss so be sure to purchase your tickets!

Hello there folks! Jerm here with an update for you on a recent visit we took to visit our friends over at the Courtyard Tampa Westshore/Airport!

This was my first visit and I was really looking forward to it, as I have always heard great things about Courtyard properties so I knew I was in for a treat. Believe me when I say, that the Courtyard hotel offers the perfect location, close to area attractions and just three miles from the airport.

When you talk about state of the art, it all starts with the lobby at this place. Never seen such cool items that enhance the guest experience quite like this!

The state-of-the-art lobby features a new, more personal arrival experience that is sure to delight even the most traveled road warrior. Some of the highlights include:

• GoBoard® - The signature GoBoard®, an interactive, touch screen informational display panel, located in the lobby, allows you to access driving directions, view local weather, find a local restaurant, and catch up on all the latest news. Did I mention its all TOUCHSCREEN! How awesome is that exactly.
• Business Library - Get connected with free high-speed Internet access, as well as complimentary printing services.
• Media Pods - For more privacy, guests can work or relax in one of the comfortable media pods, featuring free wireless high-speed Internet access, power outlets for cell phone chargers and laptops, and a flat-screen TV with personal remote control.
• Theater Lounge - At the end of the day, enjoy a little time outside the room by relaxing in our Theater Lounge. This area is perfect for watching that all-important sporting event and more.

Enough talk about technology, lets talk about where you will spend most of your time... the room! Whether you like King Bedrooms, Double Bed Guest rooms, or Suites, these guys got you taken care of for when you are ready to get to the room and relax from a long day of travel, or long day of exploring Tampa Bay!

The spacious suite guest rooms feature separate living rooms and additional amenities including a TV in each room, microwave, mini-refrigerator and dry bar. I laid down on one of the beds, and was almost asleep five minutes later, so when you think comfortable beds, think Courtyard!

Each room is also equipped with complimentary high-speed wireless Internet access also, while sticking to that technology theme.

If you are looking to unwind and get away from technology for a second, the patio and outdoor space enables guests to unwind in cozy comfort, enjoy the outdoors, retreat from the hustle and bustle and even be inspired to work outdoors. On a beautiful day like today, there is no place I'd rather be.

If you are in the need to put food in your belly, they got you covered as well! The Bistro provides high quality, freshly prepared meals and beverages in a quick serve café environment. Breakfast features Starbucks coffee and a wide selection of pastries, egg sandwiches, and healthy fruit and yogurt parfaits. In the evening, The Bistro offers fresh hot sandwiches, entrée salads, soups and a selection of craft beers and quality wines.

All in all, its a pretty sweet option if you are looking for a great place to lay your head, while enjoying tons of awesome amenities. For more info, be sure to check out their website and get to booking!

Be sure to check it out on your travels and stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hello foodie and drinky fans! Jerm here to tell you about another funtastic event happening over in the Westshore District!

Join our friends over at Fleming's Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar for a memorable evening of wine appreciation as we explore the fabulous heritage of French food and wine through an exceptional five-course dinner.

Each course will be paired with a notable wine from one of France's top growing regions. For those of you who are like me and may not be as familiar with your wine (or your French), you'll be joined by Michael Rugers, long-time director of wine and spirits for Bern's Steak House, Tavern on the Green and the Russian Tea Room. 

Just to wet your whistle, here is a look at some of the offerings you can begin to look forward to:
 

FRIDAY, APRIL 27th, 6:30 PM
$125 PER GUEST, ALL-INCLUSIVE*
CALL 813-874-WINE (9463) TO RESERVE

FIRST COURSE: PROVENCE
Crispy Goat Cheese Salad
perfumed d'anjou pears, balsamic-honey reduction
and ginger-essence vinaigrette
JEAN-LUC COLOMBO, Cape Bleue Rosé
Côteaux d'Aix en Provence, 2010

SECOND COURSE: BURGUNDY
Cream of Tomato Soup
camembert cheese foam, basil-infused oil
LOUIS LATOUR, Meursault, 2009

THIRD COURSE: BURGUNDY
Crusted Swordfish Provencal
potato gaufrette, lemon brown-butter-infused
spring vegetables
LOUIS LATOUR, Côte de Beaune-Villages, 2009

FOURTH COURSE: BORDEAUX
Slow-Braised Lamb Shank
gruyère-potato croquettes, rosemary jus
CHÂTEAU MALMAISON, Moulis, 2008
90 pts. Wine Spectator (2006 vintage)

DESSERT: RHÔNE VALLEY
Tarte Tatin
goat cheese gelato, pink-peppercorn anglaise
JEAN-LUC COLOMBO, Les Fées Brunes
Crozes-Hermitage, 2009 — 90 pts. Wine Spectator

Space is limited for this special wine event, and with a lineup of wines like this, rest assured this one will sell-out quickly!

Please call early to reserve your seat! We'll be back with more updates on Tampa Bay dining, wine and foodie related items so be checking back early and often!

Hey Tampa! Kristin here to tell you about the exquisite cuisine being served up at Council Oak Steaks & Seafood! Located in the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino. Come out and experience the fine dining ambiance of Council Oak, named after the ancestral oak tree where the Seminole leaders would meet to discuss tribe affairs. 

Council Oak specializes in the finest USDA steaks and seafood, all of the top end meat coming from their very own butcher shop and seafood from local waters. Maine Lobster is also a signature feature.

In addition to the extensive menu offered, there are over 300 wines to choose from the intimate wine bar. This local gem has been rated highly by Zagat, as well as one of the “2011 Hot 10 Tampa Bay Restaurants” by Gayot, The Guide to the Good Life. The restaurant has also been awarded the Award of Excellence by the Wine Spectator Magazine.

Check out this sneak peak of some their signature dishes on the menu!

Appetizers:

• Steak Tartare made from chopped USDA prime beef with traditional seasoning ($12.50)
• Sea Scallops seared and topped with lemon and pomegranate ($14)
• Stuffed Clams ($10.50)

Main dishes:

• Dry Aged Lamb Chops ($50), Filet Mignon ($39)
• Grilled Free Range Chicken ($25)

Dessert:

• Crème Brulee with fresh berries marinated in Grand Mariner
• Council Oak 151 Volcano is made up of vanilla ice cream covered with Heath Bar Crunch flambéed tableside with a shot of 151 Rum

All new cocktails:

• Martinis feature a choice of nine differently-stuffed olives (examples: Chipotle pepper, Feta cheese and rosemary)

Come out to Council Oak, and enjoy this fine dining experience! That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more Tampa Bay dining and foodie related updates!

Hey folks! Jerm here with an update on the Tampa Bay Sports scene!

The Tampa Bay Rowdies host the Carolina RailHawks tomorrow night, Wednesday, April 18 at 7:30 p.m. at Al Lang Stadium in downtown St. Petersburg.

It is Rowdies Retro Night and tickets are available at the 1975 inaugural Rowdies price of $7.50 in General Admission or Lower Goal Reserved seating. To receive this special offer fans must contact the front office at 813-287-1539 or email at tickets@rowdiessoccer.com. Discounted tickets for the match will only be available until 12 noon on the day of game.

Fans can also buy tickets for Wednesday night's match and all Rowdies home games by emailing tickets@rowdiessoccer.com or calling 813-287-1539.

Tickets will be available at the box office at Al Lang Stadium beginning at 4:30 p.m. on gameday as well.

All Rowdies matches are broadcast live online at www.RowdiesSoccer.com. That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

The Patel Conservatory’s NGB, Next Generation Ballet, dancers have been given the opportunity to perform a group piece at the upcoming YAGP Gala at the David A. Koch Theatre at Lincoln Center in New York City on April 27, 2012.  The dancers received this honor by winning the Outstanding School Award at last year’s Youth America Grand Prix Final.

This is a very unique and amazing opportunity that the dancers will get to take part in, performing with some of the world’s top ballet companies! The YAGP Gala is sold out annually, featuring international ballet stars from around the world. The NGB dancers will be performing Shostakovich Suite, choreographed by Richard Cook, and staged by Stark.

This Thursday, April 19th the dancers will be giving a sneak preview to local ballet supporters, staff and press. This will take place at the Patel Conservatory at 6:30 p.m. in room 302. There will also be a Meet & Greet with the dancers after the performance is completed.

Please come out and support this amazing accomplishment!  And head over to the Patel Conservatory's website for more information - http://www.patelconservatory.org/. 

We'll see you back here for more great things to do in Tampa Bay, as well as other Tampa Bay area events.

Happy Friday Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know about some of the events taking place at the Encompass Insurance Pro-Am this weekend.

As many of you may know, the events kicked off this week at TPC Tampa Bay with some professional practice rounds and the Laser Spine Institute Challenge. Today was the start of the Encompass Insurance Pro-Am and it will continue throughout the weekend. You won't want to miss out on all of the fun taking place at the course this weekend! Check out some of the events taking place, listed below.

Saturday, April 14: Tampa Bay Lightning Day;  Encompass Insurance Pro-Am of Tampa Bay Round 2:     7: 15am; Live Performance by One Night Rodeo, immediately following play.

Sunday, April 15: Encompass Insurance Pro-Am of Tampa Bay Round 3: 9: 15 am; 18th Green Ceremony with a Special Presentation by the US Military, following play. 
 
The Tampa Bay Pro-Am Foundation, Inc. has built a legacy of giving back significantly to the community through this event. . In the past twenty-four years, the tournament has contributed over $9 million to area charities. The 2012 recipients are Homeless Emergency Project-HEP (with funds supporting the Campaign to Bring Our Veterans All the Way Home) and the USF Foundation in memory of Lee Roy Selmon.

This is the perfect way to spend a weekend outdoors with friends and family. Head on over to TPC Tampa Bay to be a part of of this fun event for a great cause! For ticket information, click here.

Have a wonderful weekend! Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hi everyone. We're excited to have a guest blog today by Joe Laing with El Monte RV Rentals!  Here you go:

Whether you are planning a family RV vacation to Tampa Bay or have Tampa on your Florida itinerary and plan to fly in to take in the sights, there is high adventure waiting for you in this exciting city. Sometimes even Tampa residents get so involved in their workaday world, they forget there are so many things for the whole family to do right at home.

Of course, you can't neglect the most important attractions in town. The first family adventure should be the famous Busch Gardens. This theme park has rides, shows and plenty of animal exhibits. Take the sky lift ride and get a unique view of the wildlife. Another must-see is Serengeti Safari at Busch Gardens, an unforgettable trip of over 65 acres of African Plain where you'll enjoy getting up close and personal with zebras, ostriches and much more.
 
When you love animals and sea life, Tampa Bay is the place to come. The Florida Aquarium offers an educational and interactive experience with touch tanks that allow kids to get "hands-on" with fascinating creatures. They also provide a Wild Dolphin Cruise so you can see some amazing dolphins in their natural habitat – Tampa Bay.

Something tells me it's all happening at the zoo, and Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo is no exception. Visit this highly rated zoo! The animals will love it if you do. The Big Cat Rescue is worth a visit, too. This is a large sanctuary dedicated to big cats, with over 100 lions, cougars and more.

Be sure to take the family to see the Tampa Electric Manatee Viewing Center just south of Tampa. If visiting from November through April, you'll see manatees, an endangered species that finds love and attention here. Other times of the year, you can play games, see the butterfly gardens and experience a hurricane simulator. Best of all is the free admission.

Adventure Island has 30 acres of water rides, and if you desire a day of swimming in a giant wave pool, playing in waterfalls or rushing down a corkscrew slide, you'll love it here. The Florida sun isn't quite as ferocious when you visit this theme park.

The historic neighborhood of Ybor City is a wonderful place to soak up some interesting history. One of the best ways to absorb that history is to engage in the Secret City Walks, where you stick those headphones on your head and get a self-guided audio tour. This experience really brings the ghosts of Ybor City to life for the whole family.

No matter if you have an RV camper or car, you will find it extremely rewarding to drive over the Sunshine Skyway Bridge, keeping an eye out for the dolphins that often appear in the water below. Great views are yours to behold from this marvelous bridge. You can also fit in some fishing from the nearby pier. Make it a point to stop at Bayshore Boulevard, a sidewalk that has the claim to fame of being the longest sidewalk in the world. Winding along the bay, you will truly enjoy the 4.5-mile stroll.

Love to visit parks and take part in many different outdoor activities? Lettuce Lake Park offers canoe rentals, fishing, hiking and a lovely path to take a bicycle. Another popular park to take a nice little trek through the woods is Al Lopez Park, 132 acres of great wildlife and a pond where you can throw in a line.

Speaking of canoeing, the perfect place to get away from the crowds is Hillsborough River State Park. Once you move away from the main picnic area, you will get some solitude and relaxation in the fragrant woods. This state park has an RV campground as well as tent camping. Hiking is great here too. Of course, if you prefer the beach you can take the Courtney Campbell Causeway over to Clearwater, and make your way right to Clearwater Beach. Walk out on the pier and enjoy the fresh salt air. The sand is clean and white.

Once back in Tampa, you may wish to see some of the museums in the city. There are many, but you can get a unique view of some of Tampa history at the Henry B. Plant Museum, once an opulent hotel where Teddy Roosevelt and Babe Ruth stayed. Another site you shouldn't miss if the Museum of Science and Industry, with over 450 hands-on activities that the kids will love.

Yes, Tampa offers much adventure for any family, whether exploring on an RV vacation or touring by car.

About the Author
Joe Laing is the Marketing Director for El Monte RV Rentals. You can see more great RV vacation ideas in their Monty's Musings RV Travel Blog. Be sure to check their Florida Rentals page for a luxury motorhome for a Florida vacation adventure.

Who would have thought that a vacant poolside kitchen would turn into a hydroponic garden serving fresh produce to the many Marriott customers and guests throughout the Bay area? The Tampa Marriott Waterside decided that they needed to use the vacant spaces in their hotel, and put them to good use.

They developed one hydroponic garden near the pool, and a roof top garden. All produce is dispersed among the Marriott restaurants for customers to enjoy.

This choice has allowed for a savings of over $1,000 a month in food cost. That is amazing! Currently they are producing 75-100 heads of lettuce which are used for salads throughout restaurants. The roof top tomato garden is hoping to stay on track by producing 160- 320 pounds of tomato from each crop.

A rain harvesting irrigation system, created out of mostly recycled materials was built for the rooftop garden.  Among the vegetables being grown, the hotel is growing herbs and flowers; basil, chives, mint, rosemary, thyme, oregano, marigolds, and sunflowers.

Not only us the Marriott being environmentally friendly, saving money, but allowing their customers to enjoy in a healthy eating experience throughout their restaurants! Thats all for now, but stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay hotels!