Ybor City

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

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

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

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

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

Over 100 years of The Columbia’s history comes to life in 300+ colorful pages, illustrated with many new color and black and white photos along with stories from the Hernandez Gonzmart family members, employees, business partners and long time customers.

This book will delight home cooks, offering seventy-seven new, authentic recipes and theme menus for the holidays, Sunday brunch, wine tastings, and cocktail parties. Learn simple and elaborate dishes made famous by the Columbia.

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

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

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

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

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

Cigar Heritage Festival 2009 Happens Tomorrow

Friday, November 20, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wednesday, November 18, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

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

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

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

Participating Sports:

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

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

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

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

Participating Sports:

January 23-24, Saturday & Sunday: Baseball

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

HART wins the State's Best "Outstanding System" Award

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Convention Sales

Well here I am again, Linda Mummert giving you the low down on Tampa Bay's very own Hillsborough Area Regional Transit has won the title of "Outstanding Transit System" by the Florida Public Transportation Association.

HART was awarded with this prestigious honor at its recent annual conference in Jacksonville. The Outstanding Transit System award emphasizes achievement in efficiency and effectiveness, as measured by both quantitative and qualitative factors.

As part of the award process, HART submitted ridership and productivity numbers for the past three years, showing consistent growth.

Fiscal management is another important measurement, and HART demonstrated effective financial control by monitoring all related financial activities to ensure revenues, costs and cash flow are in compliance with stated objectives. In the last year, the implementation of efficiencies in various services and processes led to a savings of more than $1 million, which HART has been able to direct back into its Tampa Bay transit service.

In addition, HART's achievements in safety, operations, customer service, staff development, policy administration and marketing and community relations were considered.

The award recipients are chosen by the distinguished FPTA Organizational Awards Committee, which is comprised of the FPTA Executive Director, a representative from the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), and a representative from the Center for Urban Transportation Research (CUTR) at the University of South Florida.

On another note, HART also provides door-to-door paratransit service, Travel Training. and manages the TECO Streetcar system which provides transportation to shopping in Tampa Bay, our entertainment districts in Channelside, Hyde Park and Ybor City. The streetcar is a wonderful alternative for our visitors and convention attendees to get around Tampa Bay and our local attractions.

They have won my HART and I am sure yours. Let's give our HART team a high five for winning the Best in the State Award! Over and out for now. Stay tuned for more Tampa Florida news.

Florida Orchestra in December

Thursday, November 12, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

A Cattle Drive Through Downtown Tampa

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

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!

What's Happening Downtown Tampa

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 by Partner Pulse

Tampa Downtown Happenings

This week in downtown Tampa:

    * Hey pasta lovers, has the Tampa Convention Center got a deal for you! If you attend Tampa Bay Meetings or just have access to the Convention Center Tampa in downtown and just can’t get enough pasta, then make sure you are at the Convention Center Tampa today (11/09) and again on Tuesday, November 17th for the United Way Pasta Luncheon. This is an “all you can eat” event. For only $6.00 you can have as much pasta as you want and know that those carbs are going to a great cause. Click here for more information.

* Mayor Iorio invites you to join her at Cotanchobee/Fort Brooke Park on Tuesday (11/10) at 10:00 a.m. for an event that will honor our armed forces. This should make the Tampa Florida News and for details, click here.

* Veterans Day will be celebrated in downtown on Tuesday (11/10) in Joe Chillura Courthouse Square. Get details about this important event by clicking here.

    * Impromptu Players of Stageworks Theatre will present a Staged Reading of “The God of Isaac.” This is a hysterical comedy by James Sherman and directed by Andrea Graham. The event will take place on Saturday (11/14) from 6:30pm & 9:00pm at Dolce Vita Lounge, Channelside Cinemas (601 Channelside Dr). Tickets are a $25.00 Contribution for general seating or $35.00 Contribution for the reserved section. For tickets call Andrea Graham at (813) 784-6832 or click here. This is a benefit for Stageworks Outreach Programs for At Risk Kids

Also in November:

    * "Aurora Borealis III", Blake's Fine Arts Open House, will take place on November 17th from 6-8 p.m. The marching band will kick off the event at 6 p.m. sharp. This magical torch-lit event will feature strolling performers and musicians in the courtyard as well as choreographed performances on stage by harpists, actors, guitarist, singers and dancers. Journalism and creative writing students will showcase their talent through the spoken word and live broadcasts. Bronzed dancers will be positioned on pedestals as living statues in the courtyard. Video and visual art imagery will be projected on the outside of the building. The gallery and visual art studios will be open to showcase student talent with demonstrations in stained glass, jewelry, photography, printmaking and ceramics. The Fine Arts Faculty will be present in the theatre lobby to answer questions about the individual magnet programs. The Urban Teaching Academy will be available to answer questions. Prospective students and their parents are welcome. The event is free and open to the public! The school is located at 1701 North Boulevard in downtown Tampa. Come to "Aurora Borealis III" and enjoy all of the offerings that this downtown magnet school has to offer!

Ah, the holidays in Tampa Bay!

    * Come experience the innocence and charm of a Victorian Christmas. Escape the commercialism and stress of a modern Christmas and capture the warmth and joy of an old-fashioned holiday with your loved ones. The Henry B. Plant Museum presents the 28th annual Victorian Christmas Stroll from December 1st to 23rd, 10:00 am to 8:00 pm daily.

* "Light Up the Night with the Downtown Tampa Florida Attractions Association’s Holiday Lighted Boat Parades on Friday, December 4th and Friday, December 18th. Parades will begin at 6:30 PM. Come watch these festively decorated boats illuminate the sky and spread holiday cheer throughout Downtown’s Channel District. The Rough Riders will be accepting Teddy Bear donations during the parade and will be the boat to beat as they light up one of their best floats in honor of this holiday tradition!

The Tampa Downtown Partnership serves as the steward of downtown Tampa, cultivating public and private partnerships, and encouraging downtown’s physical and economic development. As a proactive leadership organization, we act as an advocate for the downtown community.

The Tampa Downtown Partnership fosters Tampa’s vibrant and diverse multi-use downtown neighborhoods and plays a key role in creating a 24-hour urban center where people can learn, live, work and play. Programs such as our Clean and Safe team and our transportation initiatives make accessing and navigating Tampa's downtown an easy and enjoyable experience.

As a membership organization, we are driven to serve the Tampa downtown business community and are empowered by what each member brings to our organization. Together, we strive to improve the collective downtown Tampa community, to be an active conduit of information and resources, to promote a shared vision for Tampa’s downtown, and create and implement the plans that support that vision.

ZooFari Was Awesome!

Tuesday, November 10, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

So this past weekend, Jerm ventured out for the Annual ZooFari festival put on by our friends over at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo. I think the title of this post will pretty much sum up my feelings about the event. As I said in my pre-blog, this was one of the hottest Tampa Bay area events in town!

Everywhere you look there were pretty girls, cute animals, and of course some pretty amazing foods! I began stuffing my face as soon as I got into the Zoo. Well actually I had a glass of Champagne first, then I began to stuff my face with whatever was put in front of me!

I would like to personally thank Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo for setting my diet back a week or two...lol. I knew there would be a lot of local vendors, but once you get there and see them all, its very surreal. I saw all my favorites like Sally O'Neill's, Pei Wei, Papa Johns, Gallaghers, Ruth's Chris, Mitchell's Fish Market, Grillsmith, BJ's Brewhouse, and so many more. And yes I am a fatty because I more than sampled food from each of those places!

But for me personally the highlight of the night was the dessert tray from Chantilly Cakes. If you see the picture here to the left with all of the desserts on it, then you will understand why. Cupcakes, cakes, and a few more sweet items that I had never seen before, but they tasted awesome.

Guys believe me if you have an event that requires desserts, I recommend you do two things:

Call Chantilly Cakes and have them cater!
Invite me to the event!

I also had a really good Malt, somewhere near Wallaroo station, but can't for the life of me remember the name of that vendor.

As far as Tampa Bay entertainment goes, Sister Hazel was the highlight of the evening as everyone crowded at the front of the Zoo to see them go on. Here is a little video for you if you were not able to make it.

My favorite group of the evening was the VodkaKnaughts, as they had me cracking up with their selection as well as the lead singers commentary. Worth the price of admission these guys are. Here is some video of that as well.

You can always count on Lowry Park Zoo to put on a first class event, and this was no different. Looking forward to the next event with abated breath though, and who knows, as I may even have some passes to give away next go round!

Stay tuned for more things to do in Tampa Bay!

Piano in Ybor Gets everyone Playing their own tune!

Monday, November 9, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

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.

What's happening in Ybor City Tomorrow

Friday, November 6, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hi all! Travis here with the cool Tampa Bay area events taking place in Ybor City tomorrow, Nov. 7. There some neat things to do in Tampa Bay, so listen up.

Ybor Art Walk (at Various locations) - from 12:00 pm - 6:00 pm, Ybor Art Walk, a monthly art event sponsored by Ybor Art Association, will take place in history Ybor City.

The Art Walk is a self-guided tour of over 20 participating artistic venues in Ybor City. This month, Square One Rocks! will kick off at 11:00am at the Ritz Ybor (www.ritzybor.com).

No street closures are planned and for more information and a brochure, visit www.YAAOnline.org.

Kraftz for Kids (at 1923 East 7th Avenue) - it happens from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. You can indulge yourself in some crafty creations!

Jezabelles and Her Wandering Gypsies are hosting a FREE event each Saturday for the entire family. For more information and a schedule, call 813 / 247-1923 or email jezabelle-gypsies@hotmail.com

Ybor City Saturday Market at Centennial Park East Pavillion from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. If you are looking for fresh produce or a November shopping adventure, then this is the place for you.

Visit the Ybor Market this Saturday in Centennial Park. For more information, please contact Lynn Schultz at 813/241-2442 or visit www.ybormarket@yahoo.com.

and there you go...so get out and start exploring Tampa's historic Ybor City. and keep checking back for other things to do in Tampa Bay.

Cook Columbia Cuisine At Home

Friday, November 6, 2009 by Partner Pulse

The famous Columbia Restaurant celebrated its 100th Anniversary back in 2005. This year they've released a book celebrating the restaurant's history and many, many memories and stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. The fourth generation now owns and operates the seven restaurants located throughout Florida.

The book is filled with delicious recipes from the Gonzmart family. The book is available online or by calling the University Press of Florida at (800) 226-3822. This would make a great Christmas/Hanukkah gift for your mother, mother-in-law, sister, wife, boss, etc.

If you're in the Tampa Bay area, be sure to visit the Columbia Restaurant & Gift Store in Ybor City or the Columbia Cafe at the new Tampa Bay History Center. The 1905 Salad is to die for and is perfect with a refreshing glass of sangria. If you're looking for Tampa Bay nightlife, the Columbia in Ybor City offers live flamenco dancer shows. Always entertaining!

So Who's Coming to Zoofari With Me Tomorrow!

Friday, November 6, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

Alrighty then, a little more than 24 hours till we get to head out to Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo tomorrow for the annual Zoofari festival, and Jerm can't wait! With the many Tampa Bay area events going on this weekend, this bad boy is gonna be up there with the best I assure you!

The 23rd annual Zoofari at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo will feature a variety of deliciously delectable food from more than 60 Bay Area restaurants!

One thing I do know is that I will do my best to sample food from all 60 vendors, which means that one of you may have to wheelbarrow me out of that place at some point.

There will be open bars, six bands throughout the Zoo featuring Sister Hazel on the main stage and a whole lot of other tastiness.

I would suggest you get there early, as the lines will be pretty crazy and the parking lot I can almost guarantee will overflowing, which is a good thing, because the more the merrier!

As usual I'll be tweeting live from the event and taking pictures when not stuffing my face, so hopefully I'll see you there! In the meantime stay tuned in for more things to do in Tampa Bay!

Richard's Run for Life

Tuesday, November 3, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with some Tampa Bay entertainment that is for a good cause!

The 8th Annual Richard's Run for Life, a 5K Run/Walk benefiting H. Lee Moffitt Cancer Center and Research Institute will take place this Friday evening, November 6 beginning at 7pm.

The event will start and end on 9th Avenue in Centennial Park in Ybor City. The event will follow the standard Ybor City 5K run route.

Set up for the event will begin at 5pm and breakdown will be completed by 9pm. In order to accommodate the event, several streets will be closed during the race between 6-8 pm to include the following:

Nick Nuccio Parkway between Nebraska Avenue and Interstate 4
Palm Avenue between Nebraska Avenue and 21st Street
9th Avenue between 18th and 19th Streets
19th Street between 8th and Palm Avenues

After the race, food and refreshments will be served in Centennial Park. For more information, visit www.richardsrunforlife.com.

And there you have it everyone! Make sure you come out and run with Richard to benefit H. Lee MOffitt Cancer Center!!!! get your running shoes on and I'll see you out there.

Until then, keep checking back for other great things to do in Tampa Bay!

What's Happening in Ybor City...

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with some cool Tampa Bay area events...well, really events taking place in historic Ybor City.

Ybor City's special event season has officially begun and November's theme is "Celebrating Cigar Heritage". That means, some awesome Tampa Bay entertainment for all of you.

For a calendar of this month's special events, just click here.

If you happen to be in Ybor City, the Ybor City Ambassadors will be distributing these calendars to merchants this week.

If you want more information about other special events, just visit www.YborOnline.com.

Enjoy...I love Ybor City, so make sure you get out there and have some fun. And keep checking back for other things to do in Tampa Bay.

Jerm Goes to Zoo Boo with the Carjavals...

Monday, November 2, 2009 by Bay Bloggers

So this past weekend was Halloween of course, and normally my Halloweens are reserved for me siting on the couch and making every effort to not answer the door when trick or treaters come by. Yes I know that sounds awful, but I truly have never gotten into the whole trick or treat, dress up in a costume deal I guess. Yes I know what you are thinking... what a party pooper!

Well this year I decided to switch it up a bit and spend it with my friends the Carvajals and their two little girls at Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo for the annual Zoo Boo event.

We got there around 7pm Friday night and it was already packed with pint sized trick or treaters decked out in their scariest costumes. This year’s spook-tacular event featured 12 frightfully fun attractions. Little ones could walk into a world of dazzling lights and friendly Halloween scenes at Little Tyke Boo House, join Frankenstein and friends at his foam party, meet creepy crawling creatures and more.

We pretty much hit everything, and by the end of the night, those two little girls had me dragging tired and hungry! Luckily for us though, the fine folks from Domino's were outside offering up free pizza slices.

This was really a cool event, as basically the entire park is decked out in Halloween garb, with some of the animals still on display. for the kiddies as well as the grown-ups to interact with. The girls got to touch the Manatees, see a baby version of Ivan the Blogging Owl.

We heard that there was a cool animal magic show back at the Safari Lodge, but didn't get a chance to make it back there...bummer, but it definitely gives us something to look forward to next year. If you have never been before, Zoo Boo is a must for any family, or boring friend of the family guy like myself!

That's all for now, stay tuned throughout the week as we will be giving you updates for one of our favorite Tampa Bay area events this weekend at the Annual ZooFari festival at Lowry Park Zoo as well! Come back and visit us soon as well for cool kid friendly things to do in Tampa Bay!

Lots of Tampa Fun for AOPA!

Friday, October 30, 2009 by Convention Sales

Hello everyone! Well, it’s another beautiful day in Tampa Bay! Especially if you’re down here for the AOPA Aviation Summit and you call a cold weather city your home. But the weather isn’t the only thing you’ll enjoy while visiting our fair town. In between all the great conference events I’m sure you’ll be checking out, there are a lot of local haunts to explore as well. Tampa’s got something for everyone!

Are you into fine dining? Hop on the streetcar in front the Tampa Convention Center, take a leisurely 20 minute ride to Ybor City and check out one of our favorite local landmarks, The Columbia Restaurant! Besides having Spanish food that would make my Abuelita proud, it has the distinction of being the largest Spanish restaurant in the world! Pick up an authentic sangria pitcher at the gift shop on your way out.

If you enjoy exploring local history, the Tampa Bay History Center, located just a couple blocks from the Tampa Convention on The Riverwalk near Channelside, is the place for you. The History Center highlights our colorful past including Tampa’s cigar factory era. With interactive exhibits and fun activities, the History Center is perfect for fledgling historians of any age.

Raise your hand if you love to shop (I would raise both of mine, but I’m typing)!! Well, then you’ll love the world class Tampa Bay shopping opportunities you can find at the International Plaza. With department stores like Neiman Marcus and Nordstrom as well as shops like Louis Vuitton and Tiffany’s, International Plaza is a place where world class shopping meets upscale dining and nightlife.

I could keep going about my great town, but other duties call. Have fun exploring Tampa while you’re here! And if you don’t get to do everything you wanted to, then come back just for fun another time! Ciao for now!

Jam out this weekend with the Reggae Jerm Jam

Friday, October 30, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with some cool Tampa Bay entertainment for everyone! This Sat., Oct. 31 (that's right, Halloween), the Raggae Jerm Jam hits Tampa Bay.

It all happens from 2-9pm at the Bayanihan Arts And Events Center (at 14301 Nine Eagles Drive in Tampa).

About the show:
The Reggae Jerk Jam is truly a wholesome family event that brings all the authentic tastes and sounds of the Caribbean directly to you. Share the music, love and the laughter of what makes the Caribbean unique and let it lead you all the way to your heart and soul.

Tickets are $10, but children 12 and under free! Just head over to www.reggaejerkjam.com to get more details. But, no matter what, make sure you plan on heading out to cool festival.

Be back later with more cool Tampa Bay area events and other great things to do in Tampa Bay!

Columbia Restaurant Hosts Florida Conversations

Wednesday, October 28, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Hey everyone! Travis here with more cool Tampa Bay entertainment! This just in from the history center...on Tuesday, Nov. 10 at 7pm the Tampa Bay History Center will present a Florida Conversations lecture featuring USF Historian Andrew Huse and Columbia Restaurant owner Richard Gonzmart.

The two will discuss Huse’s new book, The Columbia Restaurant: Celebrating a Century of History, Culture and Cuisine.

Although the Florida Conversations Lecture Series is normally hosted by the Tampa Bay History Center, this special installment will be held at the Siboney Room at the Columbia Restaurant’s Ybor City location.

Huse, a historian with the University of South Florida Libraries Department of Special Collections, worked closely with the Gonzmart Family to write this new centennial history of the famed Tampa restaurant.

In The Columbia Restaurant, Huse provides an in-depth look at the people who made the restaurant great. With a historian's eye for accuracy and a storyteller's ear for anecdotes, Huse traces the fortunes of the Columbia from the founder, Casimiro Hernandez Sr., to his great-grandson, fourth-generation restaurateur Richard Gonzmart.

Florida Conversations features authors covering the history, culture and people of Florida and is presented through a partnership with the University of South Florida Libraries Florida Studies Center.

Here's a great part about this event...it's FREE and open to the public. For additional information or to find out about upcoming lectures just head over to www.tampabayhistorycenter.org. Have fun all you history majors and fans!

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

Seafood and Arts...a one-stop shop!

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 by Tampa Bay & Company

Travis here with a truly delicious event – the Ruskin Seafood and Arts Festival. As far as Tampa Bay area events go, this one is at the top of the list to attend. From Nov. 7-8, sun, sand and plenty of seafood line the shores of Tampa Bay for the annual Ruskin Seafood and Arts Festival.

More than 20 vendors and restaurants offer visitors tastes of their seafood specialties, including shrimp, cracked conch, grouper sandwiches, clam chowder, alligator and oysters.

In addition to the seafood, an arts and crafts area has nearly 100 displays of hand-crafted goods, wood carvings, furniture, jewelry, stained glass items and commercial exhibits. Other entertainment includes a boat show, children’s court and exotic animals.

There’s something for the entire family, so head out and enjoy a day full of food, culture and fun! Admission is $5 for adults and children (under 12) are FREE. Plus, parking is free! Visit www.ruskinseafoodfestival.org to get more details.

So, put it on your calendar and get ready for a great time! And keep checking back for more great things to do in Tampa Bay!

Howl-O-Scream Giveaway Time!

Tuesday, October 27, 2009 by jeremy fairley

Okay guys here it is, its time for Jerm to give away some Howl-O-Scream tickets, so I hope you guys got your trivia hats on!

Now as I said yesterday, this is a pretty sweet prize we are giving away so to make it more interesting, I searched for the hardest trivia questions that I could find, so I actually don't think anyone will figure this one out! Today's winner will recieve a 4 - pack of tickets with front of the line fear passes, and tickets to fright feast!

Being the nice guy that I am though, I am going to tell you where to find all of these answers. See the trivia question below and answer the three questions by visiting the Howl-O-Scream website. If you haven't been there yet, its a cool little interactive website (after you view the YouTube video) with tons of facts about the Howl-O-Scream exhibits and some interesting facts about Ms. Vayne and her crew. Navigate around the site to find the questions.

Here are the rules, as we are going to switch up the format this time... If you have ever played trivia with us on Facebook then this format will be somewhat familiar to you are used to.

I mentioned above where you can find the answers, and once you have found them, come back to this blog and leave your answers in the comments section, along with your first and last name. From there, we will take the first five with the correct answers and those names will be entered into a drawing where we will pull the name of the lucky winner.

Okay guys here go the questions:

As the youngest of Ms Vayne's crew of bloodsuckers, the adorable Anya hails what region of South Florida?
Name one of two of the prized possessions that Ms. Vayne holds dear.
This Don Juan like character, and the only male member of Ms. Vayne's crew has origins that go back to 16th Century Spain where he first met Ms Vayne at the coronation of what Spanish King?

Alright gang and that is pretty much it! As always I'll be announcing the lucky winner at 5 p.m. today with an additional blog post so be on the lookout for that!

Until, stayed tuned for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay and keep checking back for more updates on all of these great Tampa Bay area events!