Happy Monday Tampa Bay! Erica back—and with a huge favor—Presidential Candidate Mitt Romney and his wife Anne need your help!

Between the entire United States and over 15,000 media persons watching, Mitt and Ann Romney will need a little downtime.  We are reaching out to residents and friends of the region to select the top five things Mitt and Ann Romney (and other RNC delegates) can do in Tampa Bay at the Republican National Convention.

The polls are open but you have only through this Wednesday, July 11 to cast your vote.  Let us know what you think Mitt and Ann must experience in Tampa Bay by selecting from a list, or suggesting your own idea. Whether it’s a jog down breezy Bayshore Boulevard or a dive with the sharks at the Florida Aquarium, the choice is yours. To help plan Mitt and Ann’s trip, click here.

So spread the news about this survey to friends, family, colleagues, coworkers, employees and others. Help by posting the survey link on your Facebook and Twitter pages so that everyone will know about the survey.

Let’s show Mitt and Ann Romney what Tampa is all about! For more Republican National Convention updates, check out http://www.gopconvention2012.com/

That’s it for now, but check out http://www.visittampabay.com/ for more information about Tampa.


 

Team Tampa represented by National Sales Manager Brittany Callahan along with Industry partner Heather French with the Doubletree by Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore hotel will be attending the Fraternity Executives Association Annual Conference - July 7^th – 10^th in Indian Wells, CA

With over 400 attendees from Fraternity & Sorority organizations from Alpha’s to Zeta’s to be present at the 2-day tradeshow - Team Tampa looks forward to the many networking opportunities in highlighting and showcasing Tampa as well as lining up some new recruits and active members & introducing them to our city’s legacy and all the new and exciting things that’s happening in and about Tampa to potentially host their next meeting here.

“Once again I have the joy of partnering with Tampa Bay & Company while representing & highlighting all that our beautiful city has to offer… – Heather French

So, if you are in Indian Wells – stop by booth # 905 and see all that Tampa has to offer for your next meeting or click on this link http://www.visittampabay.com/meeting-professionals/  and check out our Top Ten Reasons why you should host your next meeting in Tampa!

The Fraternity Executives Association is the professional association of men’s and women’s fraternity executives. It is dedicated to the common interests of its members and promotes, supports, and encourages the free discussion and exchange of ideas relating to college fraternal organizations.

That’s all for now but stay informed and tuned in for more Tampa Bay conventions & meeting news and updates.

Until the next time … Think Tampa!

Linda Mummert here with some exciting news for Tampa... I just read on TBO.com that

Tampa has won nearly $11 million in federal transportation funds to continue expanding the Tampa Riverwalk.

This grant covers construction of the next leg of the Riverwalk, from MacDill Park north beneath the Kennedy Boulevard bridge to Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park. The path will be mounted on pilings and skim the surface of the river.

The grant will also fund a greenway running beneath the Selmon Expressway.

Both the city and the expressway authority agreed to share the cost of $4 million to get the grant.

Mayor Buckhorn has made the Riverwalk the core of his plan to turn the Hillsborough River into a focal point for life downtown.

This funding will help Tampa will several options for getting around.. It will also make the city more appealing to new businesses and visitors.

This will aid Tampa in bringing new business and conventions to our city..Well it is over and out for now, until next time. Stay tuned in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hey y’all! Erica here to announce that American Idol’s Season 10 winner and country superstar, Scotty McCreery, will be playing a FREE concert at the Dallas Bull on Wednesday, June 20.

The American Idol Winner will be performing Live on the Dallas Bull Stage, Join us on Wednesday for this FREE Show. Presented by US 103.5 FM

•     Doors open at 7pm
•     FREE Show
•     Be sure to spread the News!

With chart-topping hits like “I Love You This Big,” “Trouble with Girls,” and “Water Tower Town,” it will be a jam-packed country music party.

Doors open at 7:00, and you must be 18 to get in. Put on your cowboy hat, and bring your friends. It’s a country concert you do not want to miss!

For more information on more concerts in Tampa, go to visittampabay.com/visitors/calendar-of-events/ Yee Haw! That's all for now, but be sure to stay tunbed in for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Hello Tampa Bay foodies! Erica here to share some tasty news. Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse & Wine Bar has FINALLY revealed their new Bar la Carte menu!

After much “drooling” anticipation, and a whole year of tasting and testing, six new items have been delicately selected to create the most divine bar menu ever:

• Salt and Pepper Shrimp: served with crispy fried green beans, thin slices of lemon, and a caper-mustard dipping sauce.
   
• Prime Steakhouse Meatballs: tossed in a spicy peppercorn sauce with shitake mushrooms.
   
• Fleming’s Original Prime Rib Melt: slow roasted prime rib stacked on a toasted parmesan baguette with Swiss cheese, sautéed mushrooms, whole-grain mustard, horseradish and au jus for dipping.
   
• Filet Mignon Flatbread: topped with Danish Blue and Monterey jack cheeses and red onion confit.
   
• Cedar-Roasted Mushroom & Artichoke Flatbread: Monterey Jack cheese, roasted Christopher Ranch garlic and roasted red peppers.
   
• Fleming’s Housemade Burrata: served with charred cherry tomatoes, fresh wild arugula and toasted garlic crostinis.

As if the menu could not be any more freshly flawless, the world-class Prime Burger, borrowed from the happy hour menu, was included too! It is a Fleming’s favorite and could not be left out.
Wait! There’s more…

Each made-to-order creation perfectly complements a brand new cocktail menu. Whether it’s a Vintage Vodka Martini or a crisp Pinot Grigio blend, there is no wrong choice.

Next time you’re in Fleming’s make sure you ask about the Bar la Carte menu. Your taste buds will not regret it. For more flavorsome food suggestions, check out visittampabay.com/visitors/restaurants. Bon Appetite!

That's it for now, but be sure to check back for more delectable Tampa Bay dining updates!

Well it is Linda Mummert back again with more exciting hotel news.  Our own Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel announced yesterday that it has received a TripAdvisor® Certificate of Excellence award. The accolade, which honors hospitality excellence, is given only to establishments that consistently achieve outstanding traveler reviews on TripAdvisor, and is extended to qualifying businesses worldwide. Approximately 10 percent of accommodations listed on TripAdvisor receive this prestigious award.
 
To qualify for the Certificate of Excellence, businesses must maintain an overall rating of four or higher, out of a possible five, as reviewed by travelers on TripAdvisor. Additional criteria include the volume of reviews received within the last 12 months.
 
“The Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel is pleased to receive a TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence,” said Jim Bartholomay, general manager of the 293-room, full service hotel. “We strive to offer our customers a memorable experience, and this accolade is evidence that our hard work is translating into positive traveler reviews on TripAdvisor.”
 
“TripAdvisor is pleased to honor exceptional businesses for consistent excellence, as reviewed by travelers on the site,” said Christine Petersen, president of TripAdvisor for Business. “The Certificate of Excellence award gives highly rated establishments around the world the recognition they deserve. From exceptional accommodations in Beijing to remarkable restaurants in Boston, we want to applaud these businesses for offering TripAdvisor travelers a great customer experience.”
 
The Four-Diamond-rated Renaissance Tampa International Plaza Hotel was named one of the 2012 Best Hotels in the country by U.S. News & World Report. Located at 4200 Jim Walter Blvd. in Tampa, the property features the award-winning Pelagia Trattoria restaurant, a newly renovated fitness center, an outdoor pool and 12,500 square feet of meeting space. For more information, call 813-877-9200 or 1-800-644-2685 or go to http://www.marriott.com/hotels/travel/tpaim-renaissance-tampa-international-plaza-hotel/.

Over and out for now until next time with more up to date news!

Hi everyone!  Travis back with some exciting news.  In case you haven't heard, the newest international flights out of Tampa International Airport start today!!! 

Edelweiss Airlines will now be flying weekly in to Tampa International Airport providing direct service to Zurich, Switzerland!  Has anyone ever been to Switzerland before?  Tampa Bay & Company actually sent its President/CEO Kelly Miller over to Switzerland earlier this week to be on the inaugural flight over to Tampa International Airport. 

In addition to Kelly, Tampa Bay was well represented with representatives from the Tampa/Hillsborough Economic Development Corporation, as well as Visit St. Pete/Clearwater, and others. 

This is exciting news for our destination and an opportunity to welcome visitors from Switzerland and show them how warm our hospitality is.  In case you haven't seen it, the Tampa Bay Business Jouranl has a story about the new flights.  Just click here to take a look. 

If you see visitors from Switzerland (or central Europe), make sure you welcome them to Tampa Bay...I have a feeling you'll be seeing more and more of them!! 

We'll be back with more Tampa Tourism information soon, not to mention great things to do in Tampa Bay, but congrats 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!

It's Linda Mummert here with more exciting news about an upcoming convention in 2014.

Tampa Bay & Company is excited to announce that the destination will welcome Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. in 2014 for its Southern Region Conference.  Over 3,000 attendees are expected to gather for the conference, producing over 3,000 hotel room nights and $1.7 million on delegate spending.  

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. is a private, non-profit organization whose purpose is to provide assistance and support through established programs in local communities throughout the world. A sisterhood of more than 200,000 predominately Black college educated women, the Sorority currently has over 900 chapters located in the United States, England, Japan (Tokyo and Okinawa), Germany, the Virgin Islands, Bermuda, the Bahamas and the Republic of Korea.

The Southern Region was formed in 1926 at the 8th National Convention of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.  The Southern Region holds the distinction of being the largest of the seven regions of the Sorority, with over 200 chapters spread across the diverse area that is Alabama, the Bahamas, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi and Tennessee. For more information about Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. visit www.deltasigmatheta.org.  

Well that's all for now.  Stay tuned for more Tampa Bay conventions news.

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!

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex back with some exciting news about a wonderful event taking place in Ybor City!

A Taste of Italy, right in the heart of Historic Ybor City... is celebrating  its 15th Anniversary this weekend!

The festivities kicked –off last night with  Wines of Italy and they will continue throughout the weekend.

Celebrate fabulous Italian Cinema with Cinema Italiano at The Italian Club with a showing of "Mid-August Lunch"  tonight at 7pm and a showing of "Christ in Concrete" on Saturday, March  31 at 7pm. 
Admission is FREE,  with donations accepted at the door.  Espresso, Dolci and popcorn will be available.

On Saturday, March 31, Festa Italiana is hosting a free day of festivities for the entire family to enjoy.  Festa Saturday features the annual Bocce Ball Invitational Tournament in Centennial Park, an assortment of Italian food, the Italian Idol Competition and much more.

Festa Italiana's 15th Annual Event takes place on Sunday, April 1, when Centennial Park and Historic Ybor City host over thirty Tampa Bay area restaurants and caterers.  The Taste of Italy tent will feature classic Italian dishes, cocktails and  much more.

What better way to spend your weekend than outdoors in Tampa Bay, enjoying delicious Italian food, fun games and great music with friends and family? I don’t think anything can beat that… Don’t miss out!

Festa Italiana benefits the Italian Club Restoration Fund. 

For more information, please visit:  www.FestaItalianaTampa.com

I hope you all enjoy the festa! Check back with us often for more information on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Its Linda Mummert here with exciting news about our Convention Sales Department.
Tampa Bay & Company has announced two staff promotions: Alex Kaptzan will fill the role of Vice President of Convention Sales and Services, and Holly Laverentz will now serve as National Sales Manager.  

“Alex has been a valuable asset of this team for over six years and has helped lead the convention sales and services team to new levels,” stated President/CEO of Tampa Bay & Company Kelly Miller.  “Additionally, Holly’s work on the services team for nearly a decade has prepared her for her new role and will translate well with the meeting planners and groups she will work with.”

In his new role as Vice President of Convention Sales and Services, Alex will be responsible for leading the company’s Tampa-based convention sales and convention services teams, as well as the company’s satellite representatives in Washington, D.C. and Chicago, Ill.  

Alex joined the Tampa Bay & Company sales team in 2006 as the Director of Convention Sales.  Prior to joining Tampa Bay & Company, Alex served as the Director of Sales as the Tampa Marriott Waterside Hotel & Marina for over five years.  

In her new role as National Sales Manager, Holly Laverentz will oversee the Small Meetings Market for Tampa Bay & Company.  Holly previously served as Senior Housing Manager and has been with the company for nearly 10 years.  Prior to joining Tampa Bay & Company Holly served as the Catering Convention Services Manager at the Hyatt Regency Tampa.  

Congratulations to both Alex and Holly!!  Well, it is over and out for now.  Stay tune for more exciting Tampa Bay Conventions news.

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know about some possible fashion news we just received.

Socialite fashion designer Lilly Pullitzer recently released a "State of Mind" patch design, where each patch represents a U.S. state. She plans to release an entire "State" collection of five prints (representing five states) in the coming months.

The five states she chooses will depend on which states show her the most love on her Facebook page through a contest... This is where we need your help!

To ensure Florida gets selected for a print in her latest collection, we need you to tell your fans, followers and industry vendors to go to Lilly Pullitzer's Facebook page and vote for Florida. Also. encourage your Twitter followers to vote for Florida and to include #FloridaLovesLilly at the end of each related tweet.
We want Florida to win, and we would love your help!

Have a wonderful day! Check back with us often for more information on things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

Hello folks! Jerm here with some Frozen Four College Hockey news for you as we draw ever so close to college hockey's premier event!

If you haven't already heard, this past weekend the four teams that will battle it out for college hockey supremacy will descend upon Tampa Bay next week to do battle at the Tampa Bay Times Forum!

New York’s Union College defeated University of Massachusetts-Lowell, Michigan’s Ferris State overpowered Cornell, Minnesota upset the No. 4 ranked North Dakota and Boston College conquered Minnesota-Duluth to advance to Tampa.

No. 3 ranked Union College will face Ferris State at 4:30 p.m. on Thursday, April 5, while No. 1 ranked Boston College will meet Minnesota at 8 p.m.  The winners of these games will face each other at 7 p.m. on Saturday, April 7 in the championship game.

For more information about the championship, log on to www.NCAA.com.  For more information about the NCAA Frozen Four in Tampa Bay, including ticket information, visit www.NCAA.com/FrozenFour or www.VisitTampaBay.com/FrozenFour.

I don't know about you guys but I am super pumped about this one and can't wait for next week as fans, teams alumni and all will be here to support their respective teams!

We'll be giving you much more information as the days go buy so be sure to check back with us early and often to get all of the latest updates! In the mean time, be sure to get your tickets and we'll see you in Tampa Bay!

Good morning Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know some great news about The Westin Tampa Bay!

Recently, The Westin Tampa Bay was ranked the #1 Hotel in Tampa by the U.S. News & World Report.

Wondering why The Westin received this recognition? According to U.S. News & World Report there was quite a few reasons...  The brilliant view of Old Tampa Bay from all 255 rooms, the ultra-comfortable rooms (featuring the trademark heavenly beds) and the gracious front desk staff.

Guests also appreciate having access to the heated indoor pool, gorgeous beach and tasty-in house restaurant.  The Westin Tampa Bay suggests you order from the delicious prix-fixe menu at The AQUA Bar and Grille during your visit!

Next time you are looking for a wonderful hotel and/or a great place to eat, keep The Westin Tampa Bay in mind!

Check back often for more information on things to do and Tampa Bay Hotels!
 

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to help you get a start on your Easter dining plans.

If you have been on the hunt for a great Easter meal, The Columbia Restaurant is open and including special Easter features to the menu.

The Columbia Café on the Riverwalk in Tampa is also open on Easter Sunday. You are welcome to enjoy a more casual meal from the regular menu at the cafe.  Easter features are not offered. Indoor or outdoor waterfront seating available without reservations.

Easter Features

Roast Leg of Lamb “Dali” - Domestic lean leg of lamb, marinated with red wine, garlic, lemon and oregano, roasted with potatoes in a rich gravy. Served with “Good Rice”, spring vegetables and mint jelly.  $19.95

Baked Virginia Ham - Hand carved ham topped with an orange sauce. Served with real mashed potatoes, candied yams and vegetable medley. $19.95

Entrees served with Caesar Salad and hot Cuban bread.  Try Columbia’s Original “1905” Salad for $2.95 extra.

Chocolate Tres Leches - A light sponge cake in a mixture of three milks and rich chocolate. $5.95

Strawberry Malaguena  - Fresh strawberries marinated in Spanish Amontillado Sherry, brown sugar and fresh mint. $5.95

Sangria de Cava - Spain’s wonderful bubbling cooler made with Spanish Cava (Champagne), Torres brandy and liqueur, with citrus juices. One taste will transport you to the sunny coast of Spain.  Pitcher $19.95

This sounds like the perfect place to enjoy a great Easter meal. I hope you all enjoy the featured menu items too! Call to make your reservations today!

Check back with us often for more Tampa Bay dining news.

Hello Tampa Bay, Alex here with an opportunity for you to get involved with a local Film Festival.

The Sunscreen Film Festival is taking place at Bay Walk in St. Petersburg from April 19- 22, 2012… and they are looking for volunteers!

Apply today!  Click here, to fill out the application. Please ONLY select the slots you are available to work.

If you can’t volunteer, make sure to head on over to the Suncreen Film Festival for special screenings, workshops and fun!

Have a wonderful day. Check back with us often for more Tampa Bay Film News!

Julia here again with some great news about a convention in town.

The Florida State Thespian Society (FSTS) arrived in Tampa on Tuesday and will be here until Sunday for their 2012 Annual Festival which is taking place at the Tampa Convention Center.  The FSTS Annual Festival has been held here in Tampa for over 10 years. is considered one of the largest theater festivals in the country.

Approximately 2,500 thespians will participate in the Festival, producing over 6,200 hotel room nights and $2.1 million in delegate spending.  The FSTS is considered one of the largest theater festivals in the country and is committed to presenting the very best work from high schools across the state of Florida.  For more information regarding FSTS, please click here.

Please join us in welcoming this group, as well as all meetings and conventions, to the Tampa Bay area! 

Good morning Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know about a film festival taking place this month!

Gasparilla International Film Festival is one of Florida's largest and fastest growing film festivals. This year’s festival is taking place at various locations in downtown Tampa & South Tampa from March 29- April 1, 2012. GIFF is dedicated to expanding art opportunities in the Tampa Bay community through the medium and culture of independent film.

Opening Night

Thursday, March 29, 2012
Opening Night VIP Reception @ Tampa Theatre
  - 6 7:30p.m.
  - $55 (includes film screening, sampling from restaurants, beer/wine)

Opening Night Film @ Tampa Theatre
  - 7:30p.m. - 10pm (general admission doors open at 7:30 p.m.,    film starts at 8p.m.)
  - $12 (film only ticket)

Opening Night After Party
- 10.pm. - Close @ TBD
- Open to public / free

Purchase your tickets for the opening night today!

Check back often for Gasparilla International Film Festival event updates and for more Tampa Bay Film News!

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here with some casting information.

MTVN  is seeking someone in a family that takes care of everyone and everything.

Do you feel like you are picking up the slack for your parents? Are you making dinner and cleaning the house instead of hanging out with your friends?  Does your mom put herself first, flaunt herself and embarrass you in the process? Do you feel like you are missing out on the best years of your life? Do you feel like you are parenting your own parent? Is your situation actually a good thing?  Is mom getting back on her feet but needs your help? Do you attempt to hide or downplay your family life?

If you are between the ages of 15-22 and answered yes to the any of the question above than MTV wants to hear your story! 

Send an email to castingcookie@gmail.com and be sure to include your name, telephone number, and a picture of you, your mom and your siblings.

Check back often for more Tampa Bay Film news!