Hello there College Hockey Fans! Well the week you have all been waiting for, for some time now is finally upon us!

This Thursday afternoon Union and Ferris State will drop the puck at the Tampa Bay Times Forum at 4:30 p.m. Later that evening the University of Minnesota Golden Gophers will do battle with the Boston College Eagles at 8 p.m.

For those of you fans that have not arrived yet, be sure to follow along with the conversation on Twitter by following any of the below accounts as well as following the #FrozenFour! We'll also be updating the conversation on Facebook as well so find us there also!

Twitter

VisitTampaBay

TBLightning

NCAAIceHockey

Facebook

NCAA Men's Hockey

Visit Tampa Bay

Tampa Bay Lightning

Now in addition to all of this great access, we wanted to let you know some more ways to earn points towards prizes on College Hockey Rewards! If you haven't heard College Hockey Rewards is a slick social media platform that lets you passionate College Hockey Fans earn rewards for showing your support for your teams and checking in at places!

If you haven't signed up just yet, please hurry up and do so to start earning rewards now! Use Foursquare to check in to Tampa International airport to get points, as well as checking into the Tampa Bay Times Forum!

Tampa Bay has proudly hosted and will continue to host many successful meetings, conferences and sporting events which will generate thousands of room nights and provided an economic impact into the millions for the city of Tampa and with the 2012 Republican National Convention coming in just a few months… Tampa just keeps getting better …

Last month members of Tampa Bay & Company convention sales team, Alex Kaptzan,Director of Sales, Dori Laack, Regional Account Executive/DC and Tammy Lamm, National Sales Manager along with industry partners, representing the Tampa Convention Center, Embassy Suites Downtown Tampa & Eventions of Florida were in Washington DC to attend the Destination Marketing Association International [DMAI] Destination Showcase Conference & Expos.

Throughout the week, Team Tampa attended a variety of educational sessions, general sessions and networking opportunities with new planners, potential customers, as well as existing customers all the while promoting Tampa Bay as a premier meetings destination.

So, whether you're an association, corporate, government, or third-party/independent meeting planner, we encourage you to come & discover the treasures of Tampa Bay for your next meeting or conference.  To learn more about Tampa go to our website: www.VisitTampaBay.com

That’s all for now, but be sure to stay tuned in for more Tampa Bay meetings & convention updates from the Tampa Bay Convention Sales Team …

Until then, Think Tampa!

Destinations Showcase Washington is the largest one-day event in North America which exclusively brings Convention & Visitor Bureaus - conference, convention, and trade show professionals together with exhibiting meeting destinations from the United States and beyond.

For more information –http://www.destinationsshowcase.com/washington/

 

 

From March 6 – 8th, Tampa Bay & Company representatives and its partners embarked upon another successful sales mission in Washington DC, one of its top feeder markets.  Four Tampa Bay & Company partners joined Regional

Account Executive Dori Laack and National Sales Manager Tammy Lamm for three client event functions. 

The purpose of this mid-year team Tampa Bay sales mission was to engage existing clients and build a rapport with some new clients in a fun, casual and relaxing atmosphere.

In keeping with all the new and exciting things happening in Tampa this was just one mission where we truly got to do things differently and creatively all the while allowing our clients to uncover the treasures of Tampa with a Tampa themed painting class and a culinary class.  The theme of two hosted events were "Palette or Palate - Choose your favorite withTampa Bay".   

In keeping with the knowledge that partnership for Tampa Bay & Company is one of the keys to our success  - for our third client event it was a wise decision to partner with one of our top third-party producers - IMN Solutions. 

Our newly appointed regional account executive, Dori Laack as well as team Tampa had the opportunity to meet & greet with our IMN Solutions partners along with a few of their top clients for a Tampa Lightning vs. Washington Capital hockey event. 

What a successful mission! As with all three events the customer/clients – have either met or will be meeting in Tampa that will generate thousands of hotel room nights while producing an economic impact for the destination – not forgetting the potential to provide future RFP’s to consider Tampa for meetings or conferences ...noting that since returning home we having already received RFP’s from this mission!

Well that's all for now ... but until the next time... THINK TAMPA & stay tuned in for more Tampa Bay meetings & conventions updates.

The focus of the Convention Sales team of Tampa Bay & Company is to bring conventions and meetings to Tampa Bay to create positive economic impact for Hillsborough County.  Tampa Bay & Company leads the effort of “Economic Development Through Tourism” in Hillsborough County.

For more information about Tampa Bay & Company, visit www.VisitTampaBay.com.

Attention to all of those looking for a fun and unique experience! Segway Experience at Ybor City offers you a one-of-a-kind way to see Tampa Bay…on two wheels!

For only $65 per person, you can choose from three different 2-hour tours:

Historic Ybor Tour
Enjoy a glide back in time on the bustling sidewalks of Ybor City. This historic tour will expose you to the origins of Tampa's Latin Quarter and its beginnings as a cigar manufacturing town. Its skilled Cuban residents rolled some of the finest cigars from the imported Cuban tobacco that was readily available from nearby Havana ports.

You'll learn about this multi-cultural city and the importance of the immigrant communities that created it. At one time a separate city from Tampa, Ybor has always had a rich influence from Spanish, Italian, German, Cuban and other populations who still run the eclectic café's, artist’s studios, and shops of Ybor. Ybor brings you a feast for the senses, and you’re bound to smell the roasting coffee beans and the fresh tobacco. Ybor is a treat for those who love local restaurants, and who want to revel in "old Florida". As you glide through town with a guide to show you the landmarks and the local flavor, you're easily able to imagine life in Tampa in another era.

The Riverwalk Tour
A refreshing ride along the Tampa Riverwalk. Your journey will take you along beautiful Tampa Bay and you’ll learn about the original Indian settlement and Tampa history.
You’ll also glide by the St. Pete Times Forum- Home of the Tampa Bay Lightning, Tampa Bay History Center, Tampa Convention Center and the Jose Gasparilla Pirate Ship. The journey continues to Franklin Street’s pedestrian mall through downtown Tampa and ends at the ornate Tampa Theatre, a city landmark. On our return, you’ll glide along the Hillsborough River with majestic views of the University of Tampa by the Glazer Children's Museum, The Florida Aquarium and Port of Tampa.

Cigar and Café Con Leche Tour
Indulge in the best of Ybor, and savor the coffee and cigars of this famous, almost-Cuban city?
Then let us take you to some of the best stops of the historic tour route, and watch, smell, taste, sit and enjoy. This tour spends a bit less time gliding – and a lot more time savoring this exquisite area! We’ll still share all the best history with you, but you'll also visit the Naviera Coffee Mills for "Café Con Leche". The roasting master will demonstrate how Cuban coffee is prepared and you'll walk the roasting line. In keeping with the best of Ybor, you’ll also visit the cigar specialty shops to witness skilled rollers. The best cigars are still hand rolled today, as they were back in the late 19th century when Ybor was born.

There’s nothing cooler than modern day technology! Segways bring a new edge to the tourism industry and we are so excited to offer this experience here in Tampa!

Segway Experience is located right on 8th Ave at Centro Ybor and you can reserve your tour today by calling (813) 455-7854 or emailing YborCityTours@Segway.com. *Group tour prices are also offered.         
Happy Explorations!

Just 20 minutes from Tampa’s downtown, and 3 miles north of Ruskin, EG Simmons park is one family friendly experience you won.t want to miss out on!.

To some this is a just an ordinary county park, to endangered wildlife such as the manatee, Bald Eagle and the Roseate Spoonbill, its considered home.

E.G. Simmons is a known vacation destination for many families since the mid- 1960’s because of its camping sites and natural preservations.

Native Mangroves cover more than 250 acres of the park (200 acres is preserved for the wildlife sanctuary), followed by open landscapes and a BEAUTIFUL beach; what else could anyone ask for?

There are tons of things to do while visiting the park such as taking a swim at the public beach, salt water fishing, camping (electrical hookups and waterfront camping sites), grilling, hiking, canoeing (launches and rentals), beach volleyball and hiking.

Are you are looking for family fun? Then load up the car and then head to EG Simmons Park, it’s worth the experience! That's all for now, but stay tuned in for more family friendly things to do in Tampa Bay!
 

Hey there folks! Jerm here with some pretty awesome news to share!

Hotwire.com® announced the results of its seventh annual Hotwire® Travel Value Index study, and Tampa ranked as one of the Top 10 destinations where travelers can get the most vacation for their money. Just in time for spring break and the summer travel season, the Hotwire Travel Value Index showcases the top 10 cities where consumers planning their next trip can find the best combination of value, entertainment options and attractions throughout 2012.
 
The Hotwire Travel Value Index is based on a statistical model combining both in-house and third-party research. Hotwire evaluates the top 75 U.S. leisure markets, rating them across three individual categories to generate an overall ranking for consumer vacation value. The formula includes: (1) low prices on air, rental car and hotel (50 percent of overall score), (2) discounts on air, rental car and hotel (25 percent of overall score), and (3) affordable entertainment (25 percent of overall score).  
 
The majority of the cities on this year’s list were found to be value destinations in 2011 as well. This year’s index is dominated by Florida cities with Orlando topping the list and Miami coming in 10th, making it an overall value.  According to the Hotwire Travel Value Index, the top 10 U.S. destinations for value vacations in 2012 include:
 
1. Orlando, FL
2. Atlanta, GA
3. Dallas-Fort Worth, TX
4. Houston, TX
5.  Phoenix, AZ
6.  Tampa, FL
7. Denver, CO
8. Charlotte, NC
9. Albuquerque, NM
10. Miami, FL
 

This is pretty awesome news in some elite company from around the state as well as other parts of the country! Be sure to get the word out folks and  tell all your friends and family! We'll be checking back in shortly with more Tampa Bay news and updates!

Greetings Tampa!

The Plant City Strawberry Festival is upon us … and last week we had an opportunity to visit a hotel property that would be perfect to stay at during the festival.

The Holiday Inn Express Plant City, just minutes away from downtown Tampa is close to not only the strawberry festival but also LEGOLAND, and Dinosaur World, Florida State Fairgrounds and many other attractions.  Their location is perfect for those attending sporting events held at either of the nearby International Softball Federation, Mike Sansone, or the Randy Larson Four Plex sporting fields too!

Surrounded  by verdant tropical foliage, this four story all inclusive 70 room hotel accommodations includes 16 suites and 54 standard rooms, meeting space for up to 60 people has also just completed its beautiful million dollar renovation, that sets a relaxing tone for vacations and business trips alike.

Guests will enjoy the fantastic amenities including free hot breakfasts, and one really cool aspect to their hot free breakfast is the pancake machine that will get you geared up for the day, and the beautiful outdoor pool offers a place to relax once work is done.

Again conveniently located minutes from downtown Tampa, I would definitely recommend it to anyone who wanted a great property and a great price!

A great big kudos to Charles Harris, VP and his wonderful staff, for having us visit!

Until the next time ... THINK TAMPA and stay tuned in for more updates, places to stay in Tampa Bay!

Hi everyone.  Travis here with a piece of information and a huge congrats to give to someone who has become a symbol of Tampa Bay's hospitality industry.  Antonio de Sousa with the Hyatt Regency Hotel in downtown Tampa has been recognized by the Wall Street Journal for his dedication and passion to his job. 

In yesterday's print edition of the Wall Street Journal, and in the online version of the publication, they recognized de Sousa for going 26 years on the job without a sick day.  Yes, 26 YEARS!!!  First and foremost, congrats Antonio! Second thanks for your dedication. 

And if you haven't had the pleasure or running in to Antonio, just stop by to say hi.  He's always got a smile on his face and never hesitates to help someone out. 

Here's part of the story:
 When Antonio de Sousa's car broke down on the way to work, calling a tow truck didn't enter his mind.

 Instead, he left the car beside the highway and ran five miles through downtown Tampa, Fla., to get to his job as a doorman at the Hyatt Regency hotel. "I was all sweaty, but I made it on  time, at exactly 3 o'clock," he says. That sprint years ago kept him on track toward his current record: 26 years of perfect attendance.

 It may be hard to believe in an era of floods, flu epidemics and flexible schedules, but some people haven't missed a day of work in decades. They buck up when feeling ill and schedule events  and activities around weekends and vacation days. They say, of course, that they keep coming for one reason: They love their jobs. Some own up, too, that streaks are just irresistible.

The story goes on to say:
 Mr. de Sousa's co-workers have accused him of timing the birth of his two children, Natalie and John, around his job. Both were born on his regular day off at the time, Monday. He celebrated  the births and headed back to work at 3 p.m. on Tuesday, as scheduled. Even he acknowledges it was "kind of weird." He adds, "It was a coincidence." He and his wife Diane, a bookstore  employee, have since helped put Natalie, now 21, and John, 23, through college.

If you want to read the full story, visit: http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424052970204062704577223211905610938.html?KEYWORDS=antonio+de+sousa

Again, congratulations Antonio and thank you for all you do!!!

We'll see everyone back here for more Tampa Bay tourism updates, as well as info on other great things to do in Tampa Bay!!!

Hey Tampa Bay, Katy here to welcome our newest Tampa Bay & Company partners. Throughout January, we welcomed eight organizations to the approximately 700 Tampa Bay & Company partners.  New partners include:

Barnacles Restaurant
Barnacles Restaurant offers a wide variety of menu items ranging from fresh seafood and steaks to delicious sandwiches and savory salads. Their gracious private dining room can accommodate up to 100 guests. Barnacles also offers a wide variety of daily lunch, dinner and drink specials. www.mybarnacles.com

Bueno Fishing
Utilizing the number one asset we have in Tampa Bay - the water! Bueno Fishing specializes in custom fishing charters, excursions, and entertaining business clients, tourists, and long-term residents on the water. Call to experience the true beauty of Florida. www.buenofishing.com

DeMarse Meetings & Events
The DeMarse Meetings team of dedicated professionals have over 15 years of experience in planning successful meetings, events, conventions, trade shows and incentive programs of all sizes. Check out their website under "What's In It For You" to see how you can add their staff to your team at no cost to you! www.demarsemeetings.com

Gaspar's Grotto
World famous event venue, pirate bar and restaurant. Serving great Cuban influenced food and drink. Live entertainment. A truly indigenous Tampa experience not to be missed. In the very heart of Tampa's historic district, Ybor City. Groups up to 950. www.gasparsgrotto.com

Hampton Inn & Suites Tampa-East
Located just minutes from many attractions including Hard Rock Casino, Busch Gardens, Florida State Fairgrounds and 1-800-ASK-GARY Amphitheater. Rooms and suites include breakfast, free wireless Internet, heated outdoor pool and complimentary shuttle. www.tampaeastsuites.hamptoninn.com

HES Staff, LLC
Recognized as "setting the standard" in meeting and convention staffing since 1996. Several clients contact HES exclusively to staff their Central Florida programs for everything from registration assistance to airport "meet & greet" and lead retrieval. www.hes-staff.com

Safari Wilderness Ranch
At Safari Wilderness Ranch, enjoy fresh air year-round as knowledgeable guides tour you through 260 acres, interacting with huge herds of wetland exotic species in custom safari vehicles. Book Camel-back or horse-drawn carriage game viewing safari tours. Hand-feed lemurs and budgies. Tours daily by reservation. www.safariwilderness.com

Tampa Bay Bodies
Healthy Aging, Integrated Fitness Instructor, Speaker/Classes/Seminars Health & Wellness Specialist, Food Interferences, Christian Exercise Program, Fun Fitness/Easy Movement Programs, Workouts for Seniors, Line Dance. Balance, Stretch, Flexibility, Mind, Body, Spirit. www.junekittay.com

Find out who is a new partner of Tampa Bay & Company at anytime by visiting the New Partner Showcase. Be sure to check back for more partner news soon!

Hi Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know that Music on the Bay is taking place at Whisky Joes in March.

Music on the Bay (MOTB) is a three day Parrot Head Trop-Rock Event that is taking place at Whisky Joes Barefoot Beach Bar in March.

In conjunction with The Tampa Bay Parrot Head Club, other Parrot Head clubs from all
over the state of Florida and Whiskey Joe's new Barefoot Beach Bar are coming together to make this event a fantastic Trop-Rock vacation event on the waters of beautiful Tampa Bay.

MOTB 2012 will feature some of America’s best Trop-Rock Bands from all over the
nation. Beginning Friday, March 2 at 1pm, 17 artists will take over the outdoor
waterside beach stage through Sunday, March 4, 2012.

Trop- Rock is a Island/Tropical inspired genre that blends Rock, Reggae, Caribbean and Latin music with Island/Tropical instrument arrangements and song themes. Its roots are based upon the beach music scene from the 60’s.

 Registration ends on February 6th, so don’t delay and register today! Each registered attendee will be given a goodie bag. In addition, there will be vendors with “parrotphanlia” for sale on site.  *The proceeds from MOTB raffles benefit the Shriners Hospitals for Children.*

Discount hotel accommodations are still available as well as vendor spaces. Visit the MOTB website at www.musiconthebay.org to register and to get more detailed information on this event.

Enjoy the Party! Check back with us often for updates on Things To Do In Tampa Bay!

Hi everyone.  Travis back with some tasty information that you won't want to miss.  Tomorrow, we will be doing giveaways for tickets to MOSI's Festival of Chocolate.  We will give away two 4-packs on our Twitter page (www.Twitter.com/VisitTampaBay), and two 4-packs on our Facebook page (www.Facebook.com/VisitTampaBay). 

We will give away the tickets on the Twitter page around noon, and then on the Facebook page later in the day (perhaps around 2-3pm).  So make sure you are around when we do the giveaways, because something tells me they will be going fast. 

Here's some info about the Festival of Chocolate:  Taking place from January 14-16, MOSI will host Tampa’s second annual Festival of Chocolate, which is Florida’s largest all-chocolate themed event!  The event features the area's best chocolate and confection companies selling treats of everything chocolate from truffles, cakes and cupcakes to cookies, brownies and ice creams.

Here's the best part!!!!!  Entrance into The Festival of Chocolate is complementary with your MOSI admission, which means you get everything MOSI has to offer!!!  PLus, each adult advance purchase ticket will receive two dollars in chocolate coins to spend in The Festival of Chocolate. If you are a MOSI Member, you receive discounted entry pricing at only $10 a ticket and member children can attend for FREE.

Just visit mosi.org to get more details.  And don't forget, it all happens from Jan. 14-16 at MOSI.  Have fun and get stuffed!  And don't forget to check out Twitter and Facebook pages tomorrow for a chance to get free tickets!!! 

We'll see you back here for more Tampa Bay Entertainment options for the entire family, plus more great things to do in Tampa Bay.

Today at the Tampa Bay & Company offices, City of Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn recognized President & CEO of Tampa Bay & Company Paul Catoe for his hard work and dedication to the city of Tampa, as well as the Tampa Bay community.  As part of his presentation, Mayor Buckhorn presented Catoe with a Key to the City of Tampa. 

“I’d like to thank Paul for so many years of service to this community.  We are recognized around the country as not only a great destination, but also as a great community, and we would not be the city that we are had it not been for you,” said Mayor Buckhorn as he presented the Key to the City.  “With a great deal of affection from a lot of mayors that you’ve served, but more importantly a grateful community, I thank you for your service and we’re a better place because of you.” 

What another wonderful accolade to Paul!

That’s all for now, but be sure to tune in for more exciting convention and Tampa Bay meetings news & updates… Until then … Think Tampa!

Tampa Bay & Company leads the effort of “Economic Development Through Tourism” in Hillsborough County.  Comprised of more than 700 members, the mission of Tampa Bay & Company is to create vibrant growth for the Tampa Bay area by promoting, developing and expanding a united visitor industry.

Happy Holidays everyone!  Travis here with some great Tampa Bay tourism news!  Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo has been a part of this community for a very long time, and they just announced some exciting news!  We wanted to bring it straight from the horse's mouth to you:

From Lowry Park Zoo:
Dick Stohler and Robert Thomas, co-chairs of the $10 million New Horizons Campaign to benefit Tampa's Lowry Park Zoo, today announced that the Zoo has received a $500,000 challenge match from Tampa residents Marylou and Jim Bailey to support humanitarian and rehabilitation initiatives for injured wild manatees, an endangered species for which the Zoo is internationally recognized for its significant contributions. The manatee match will direct funds to areas of critical need within the Zoo’s manatee program, specifically the substantial restoration of facilities to provide a sustainable environment for the manatees and other aquatic animals for future generations.

The challenge is designed to encourage additional contributions of $1 million from private sources. The Zoo’s goal is to match every dollar received from the Bailey family with two additional dollars raised from the community -- for a total of $1.5 million. Without these funds, the Zoo would not be able to sustain its current rehabilitation program.
           
“The Zoo’s commitment to manatee preservation is inspiring to us,” said Marylou Bailey, a trustee of the Lowry Park Zoological Society, the nonprofit organization that operates the Zoo. “The work done at the Zoo to stabilize and heal injured manatees, and return them to the wild, is critical. Although I am personally aware of the Zoo’s wise use of publicly available funds, the preservation of manatees is chronically under-funded which puts these Florida treasures at risk.”

Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo is widely recognized for caring for critically injured, sick and orphaned manatees. This endangered species has been at the heart of the Zoo’s commitment to conserving Florida wildlife for more than 20 years. Originally constructed in 1990, the Zoo’s Manatee and Aquatic Center houses the David A. Straz Jr. Manatee Hospital, which is the only non-profit hospital in the world specifically dedicated to manatee rehabilitation, and one of just three facilities in the state.  
           
“The husbandry science performed at our manatee hospital is vital to the rehabilitation and eventual return of as many individual manatees as possible back into the wild,” said Dr. Larry Killmar, VP of conservation science and director of collections at the Zoo. The Zoo has treated more than 290 manatees to date -- about 5 percent of the state’s most recent wild count. Of those, more than 150 have been re-introduced into Florida waters.

Significant upgrades are needed for the Manatee and Aquatic Center to accommodate the needs seen in recent years. The life-support system was designed two decades ago to accommodate approximately six animals at once, which was adequate for some time.  In recent years, the average number of manatee patients at any one time has averaged 10, with a high of 18 in 2010 due to a period of record cold weather. Improvements are needed to all major components including pumps, filtration, and heating systems to meet or exceed current standards.  

“As the Zoo continues its leadership role in manatee care and research, a facility to keep up with the pace of our work, and one that operates more efficiently, is of paramount importance,” said Craig Pugh, executive director/CEO of the Zoo. “A renovated hospital is a sound investment to help us to continue to meet the needs of Florida manatees in accordance with the recovery plans of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission. Rescue, rehabilitation, research, and release are only part of the picture. We also must increase public awareness and education so that manatees are protected when they leave the hospital.”

Dr. Ray Ball, director of medical sciences for the Zoo added, “Maintaining a readiness for humanitarian efforts in regards to distressed individual manatees - or responding to potential events that threaten the manatee population - require this level of re-investment in the Manatee Hospital. Improved efficiencies will potentially allow experienced manatee rehab staff to offer assistance to more in-situ involvement to help ensure the long term health of the population.”

The Zoo works to educate more than one million visitors annually about the endangered status of manatees and the importance of aquatic and marine habitat preservation. Renovations to the aquatic center building and hospital overlook will enhance the educational opportunities.

The Zoo’s financial commitment to the manatee program is approximately $1 million per year which constitutes up to 25 percent of the annual animal department operating expenses.
The Baileys are long-time supporters of the Zoo’s manatee program, also sponsoring the crane used to lift injured manatees (often more than 1,000 pounds each) into and out of treatment pools, and Jim lends his time and talents as a certified diver in the exhibit pools. Marylou Bailey added, “We are pleased to have the ability to be part of funding this critical cause and hope others are motivated to join us.”

The $500,000 challenge is part of the $10 million New Horizons Campaign launched in December 2010 to provide vital support for expanding animal science and conservation programs, and conserving Florida’s natural resources.  Approximately $6 million of the $10 million goal has been raised to date.  Make a donation online or call 813-935-8552 ext. 376 for assistance.

NOw that's some exciting new for the Zoo, and for the community, so let's give them a huge cograts on the great work they do. 

We'll see everyone back here for more news, as well as some great things to do in Tampa Bay and Tampa Bay area events. 

Hey everyone.  Travis here with some Tampa Bay Tourism news for you all.  If you've ever cruised out of the Port of Tampa, you know how great the facility is.  Well, they have reached a new milestone!!! 

The Port of Tampa set a record for single day passenger throughput this past Sunday, Nov. 20 with an estimated 12,623 people going through its doors!  That's A LOT of people coming and going! 

Building off their recent success, this achievement was the result of three ships being in port: Holland America’s Ryndam, Carnival Corporations’ Carnival Legend and Norwegian Cruise Lines’ (NCL) Norwegian Star.  This definitely proves what a great port this truly is. 

While NCL recently chose to homeport the Norwegian Star at the Port of Tampa, Carnival and Royal Caribbean both use the port extensively.

So, a huge congrats to the Port of Tampa, and a huge THANKS to everyone who has decided to cruise from Tampa Bay.  We hope to see you again soon.  Until then, we'll see you back here for more news about what's happening in the area, including Tampa Bay area events and Tampa Bay Entertainment options. 

Hello folks! Jerm here to tell you about an awesome family and fun adventure opportunity from our friends over at Adventure Family Motorsports!

Whether you and your family like to travel and do fun adventure filled activities around Florida, or if you already live here in the bay area and love to do those things with your loved ones, boy have have I got the place for you!

Adventure Family Motorsports is rental-tour company that will help you and your family turn a regular vacation into the adventure of a lifetime. Whether you are talking WaveRunner tours in the Gulf of Mexico, Harley Davidson tours around Tampa or dirt bike tours for both family and corporate fun, these guys know the best place for each of these fun-filled activities!

If you are looking for fun adventure type activities for you, your family, or even work related retreats, be sure to check out Adventure Family MotoSports by visiting www.adventurefamilymotorsports.com, and don't forget to check these guys out on Facebook as well!

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

Hello everyone! Jerm here with an update on some great new additions to the Tampa Bay & Company Partnership family!

Throughout September, Tampa Bay & Company welcomed 13 organizations to the 700 Tampa Bay & Company partners.  New partners include:

Adventure Family Motorsports-II LLC – Adventure Family Motorsports is a motorsports rental-tour company that can turn a regular vacation into the adventure of a lifetime. www.adventurefamilymotorsports.com

AFR Event Furnishings – AFR Event Furnishings offers exquisite furniture and accessory rental for special events, corporate meetings, weddings, conferences and trade shows nationwide. www.afrevents.com

Bay Area Corporate Transportation – Bay Area Corporate Transportation is a full service Chauffeur/Limousine company providing many different types of vehicles from a Luxury Sedan, Party Bus, Stretch Limousine to 55-passenger coach buses. www.bayareacorporatetransportation.com

BNY Mellon Wealth Management – Supported by 225 years of experience, they deliver the world-class capabilities of a global leader with the tailored solutions, care and commitment of a small firm. www.BNYMellon.com

Fresh – Fresh is the hottest new restaurant to hit the Tampa Bay area bringing a unique, new dining experience to downtown Tampa. They have the largest variety of fresh ingredients served both hot and cold, with a diverse and creative menu, and the ability to customize any order. www.eatfreshdaily.com

IKEA Tampa – IKEA Tampa is filled with functional, affordable home furnishings, just minutes from downtown Tampa. Enjoy shopping, dining in their restaurant, and use their Community Room for your next meeting.  www.ikea-usa.com/tampa

Gulf Coast Destinations, Inc. – Gulf Coast Destinations is West Florida's Transportation and Destination Management Company.  Let their team of local experts propose and manage your finest Florida experience. www.gcdmc.com

First National Bank of the Gulf Coast – First National Bank of the Gulf Coast is a community bank focused on meeting the financial needs of businesses and consumers throughout the west coast of Florida. www.fnbofgc.com

Linkswalker Promotions – Linkswalker offers quick turn-arounds on unique promotional products including quality golf accessories, watches and clocks.  www.linkswalkerpromotions.com

Modern Day Events – Modern Day Events is a chiavari chair rental company in the Tampa/St. Petersburg metropolitan area. They specialize in weddings, social and corporate events. www.moderndayevents.com

Qachbal's Chocolatier – Handmade chocolates and confections, bakeries, gourmet coffee shop, Qachbal's is a family-owned business and a must for your visit to the downtown Tampa’s Channelside District.  www.qachbalschocolatier.com

The Drynk Soho – The Drynk Soho is the premier entertainment venue, which promises to redefine the nightlife and private event landscape in the greater Tampa Bay area. Based primarily around ultra-modern designs, entertainment, specialty cocktails and superior customer service, The Drynk Soho offers a level of style and class to those who demand only the best. www.thedrynksoho.com

World of Beer South Tampa – At World of Beer they are constantly trying new beers in a great atmosphere. Their extensive selection of over 500 beers from around the world ensures that customers will always find a beer that fits their tastes. www.wobusa.com/southtampa

That's all for now folks, be sure to check these wonderful places out and come back for more updates on things to do in Tampa Bay!

Good afternoon Tampa Bay, Alex here to let you know that Urban Culinary Cuisine recently provided two students from Rwanda’s Akilah Institute for Women with entrepreneurial tips.
 
Noella Abijuru and Allen Kazarwa, made the journey from Kigali, Rwanda to the United States for the first time. While on a 14 city fundraising tour of the United States, the women took the time to share their experiences and their goals for the future with their supporters.

While on tour, they took the time to meet with entrepreneurs: Executive Chef, John Saxton, known simply as “Chef” by the locals, and his wife, Rose Saxton of Urban Culinary Cuisine in New Tampa.

Noella Abijuru is a 26 year old survivor of the 1994 genocide and her goal is to own and operate her own hotel. While Allen Kazarwa is a 20 year old who wants to be an independent woman and own a tourism company.

The students and their supporters experienced the Chef’s bold flavored, enticing creations of American, Southern, Cajun and Jamaican cuisines served in the urban-inspired, relaxed café environment of Urban Culinary Cuisine.

Executive Chef John Saxton has been hosting business related events and workshops at his venue, Urban Culinary Cuisine, and continues to support the growth of new entrepreneurs.

For more information about Urban Culinary Cuisine and “The Chef’s Lecture Series”, please visit www.UrbanCulinaryCuisine.com or call 813-994- 3800. For questions, please send an email to UrbanChef@UrbanCulinaryCuisine.com.

Check back with us next week for updates on Tampa Bay dining and things to do in Tampa Bay!

The results of the first-ever Tampa Bay Business Journal (TBBJ) Best in the Biz: Readers’ Choice Awards are now available, and Tampa Bay & Company has been voted “Favorite Economic Development Organization”.

The process began in early July when the newspaper began soliciting nominations from readers through an online form in nearly 60 categories focused on business-to-business relationships.  Hundreds of nominations were received from all across the TBBJ’s seven-county coverage area.

A survey containing 56 categories and more than 750 businesses was posted to the Best in the Biz: Readers’ Choice website on Aug. 1 and was active for more than three weeks.  Nearly 6,000 people participated in the survey, promoting the process on social media channels and providing discourse and feedback.

To learn more about the Readers’ Choice Awards, click here.  To learn more about Tampa Bay & Company, visit www.VisitTampaBay.com. 

Tampa Bay & Company leads the effort of “Economic Development Through Tourism” in Hillsborough County.  Comprised of approximately 700 members, the mission of Tampa Bay & Company is to create vibrant growth for the Tampa Bay area by promoting, developing and expanding a united visitor industry.

To all the voters we here at Tampa Bay & Company sincerely Thank You !

Be sure to stay tuned in for more updates & information on Tampa Bay Meetings News ...

Until the next time... Think Tampa!

Back in the late 60’s there was a television show entitled ”Mission Impossible” with a catchy theme song where an elite covert operations team would carry out highly sensitive missions with the knowing that if anything goes array the selected team members would failed to exist …

Well here in Tampa, every Mission is Possible … as All Roads Lead to Tampa!

Tampa just completed another “mission” with its very own elite team of covert operators from the Tampa Bay & Company Convention Sales & Services Team & nine tourism industry partners who went on a three day quest to Washington DC, Maryland & Virginia to capture, host & promote Tampa to over 200 people from various associations and organizations as a premier meetings & convention destination.

It’s no secret this mission went off without a hitch as a highly successful networking opportunity which resulted in reacquainting & establishing new relations, not to mention the numerous opportunities for Tampa to potentially host future meetings.

All roads will lead to Tampa Bay over the next few years as many associations and organizations from the DC tri-state area alone will send thousands of delegates into Tampa, producing over 243,400 hotel room nights and generating over $81.7 million in delegate spending.

That's all for now but be sure to stay tuned in for more updates on Tampa Bay conventions and meeting news and if you know the theme song to Mission Impossible sing along with me ...

Until the next time ... Think Tampa!

Tampa Bay & Company National Sales Manager Dori Laack & Regional Account Executive, Jeff Gassaway along with Tourism Industry partner, Doubletree by Hilton Tampa Airport Westshore Hotel recently returned from Fraternity Executives Association Annual Conference in Chicago, IL.