1. Outback Bowl (January)
The New Year’s Day college football game celebrates 30 years on Jan. 1
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Pinellas school notes: Students from East Lake and Dunedin high schools make good, SPC touts success rates
East Lake grad named to C-USA all-academic team
Monday, December 21, 2015
Retrial of officer raises question of plea deal
Baltimore Retrial of officer raises question of plea deal
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
JD Power: TIA No. 2 with customers
Add another feather to the cap of Tampa International Airport.
Travelers tell surveyor J.D. Power
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Top Ten Gifts Crafted in Tampa Bay
This may just be the best year for shopping in Tampa Bay for all things great and crafted. Just in
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Tampa Bay food scene sizzles
– Just how hot is Tampa Bay’s sizzling food scene?
In recent months, Tampa Bay’s chefs and
Monday, December 7, 2015
12 Reasons to Visit Tampa Bay in December
Here in Tampa Bay, we’re more like to have a green Christmas than a white one. But we can still
Tuesday, November 24, 2015
9 Reasons to Visit Tampa Bay in December
The weather outside is far from frightful, which helps make December one of the best months to visit
Drink of the week: American red, white and bubbly wines for Thanksgiving
Red, white or bubbly with Thanksgiving dinner? Any one can work, so for this most American of holidays, here are three delicious American wines.
Tuesday, November 17, 2015
Check out Busch Gardens' Cobra's Curse
The excitement is building for next year's opening of Cobra's Curse, the newest ride at Busch
Tuesday, November 10, 2015
Veterans get in free at Florida state parks
The Florida Park Service honors U.S. military veterans by letting them visit any of the state's
Monday, November 9, 2015
A Couple's Treat in Tampa Bay
Expedia.com and Visit Tampa Bay partnered up to feature some of the most romantic ways to spend a
Sunday, November 8, 2015
Friday, November 6, 2015
A Couples Treat in Tampa Bay
Expedia.com and Visit Tampa Bay partnered up to feature some of the most romantic ways to spend a
Friday, October 30, 2015
Tampa Bay's newest premium shopping
Tampa Bay's newest premium shopping experience is waiting for you 20 minutes north of downtown.
Thursday, October 22, 2015
Airport sleepers agree: TIA is tops in ZZZZs
Every traveler has experienced: that moment when the big board at the airport reads "CANCELLED" and
60% of WI disapproves of Walker’s job performance in WPR/St. Norbert poll
This comes from a poll with a small sample: 603. Notables: 57 percent of those polled say that Wisconsin is headed in the wrong direction. Russ Feingold leads against Ron Johnson. 51 percent to 40 percent. 60 percent of Wisconsinites disapprove of the way Scott Walker is doing his job. In fact, 40% of Wisconsinites more »
Apollo Beach FL New Homes & Home Builders
We are experts in the Apollo Beach community including keeping up to date with all the local new home builders home inventory. Please contact us so we can help you buy a new home as we will negotiate on your behalf to make sure you get the best possible deal. Our service is completely free for you as a home buyer
Mirabay located in Apollo Beach features singly family homes, villas, and townhomes. Mirabay has many waterfront homes with a good amount of homes with boat docks. Mirabay has short sale, bank owned foreclosures, and new home builder opportunities. Mirabay offers a plethora of including a lagoon style heated community pool & lap pool, tennis courts, basketball courts, fitness & aerobics center, spa services, playgrounds, full time activities director and onsite boat shop with captain at the Outfitters who can educate you about Tampa Bay’s gulf waters. Enjoy poolside food at the Gallery Cafe
Bimini Bay is directly across the street from Apollo Beach Elementary and minutes from I-75, Highway 41 and SouthShore Commons. Bimini Bay is truly an ideal place to live! Welcome to Bimini Bay, one of D.R. Horton’s newest waterfront communities. Bimini Bay is located in Apollo Beach, with home sites situated on the canals with direct access to Tampa Bay! Home sites include 1 and 2 story plans ranging from 1,844 to 3,576 square feet.
We have worked with hundreds of military families relocating to MacDill Air Force Base and are specialists in providing military families with our free buyer’s service to help find military personal off base housing. We can make your military relocation a smooth process whether you are planning to rent or to buy or if you need to rent out your current home due to a PCS move.
Waterset, a 1,319-acre residential master-planned development that will eventually comprise of approximately 2,900 single-family homes and 900 multi-family homes with several recreational facilities, schools, shopping and dining and promises to be a vibrant, “home-town” community. The character of the neighborhoods will be further enhanced by thoughtfully designed pedestrian areas, open green spaces, public gardens and parks in addition to playgrounds and sports fields. Careful consideration has been given to environmental sensitivity through water preservation and protected conservation. The entire landscape pattern will be defined by the natural flora and fauna, its lakes, streams, wetland, woodlands, and conservation and preservation areas.
Harbour Isles is a 339 acre community located in the Apollo Beach area of southern Hillsborough County, Florida, about 20 miles south of Downtown Tampa. The community is located adjacent of US- 41, with the interchange of I75 at Big Bend Road within 5 miles. The community is nestled less then 1 mile from the waters of Tampa Bay and is themed in a Florida Coastal architectural style lined with palm trees and Key West style amenities. When complete the Harbour Isles community will be home to 500 happy homeowners.
Southshore Falls in Apollo Beach offers exquisite 55+ living in one of Tampa’s most exciting neighborhoods just minutes from the beach, shopping, entertainment and more. This intimate 800-home community offers exquisite new construction homes and villas at affordable prices. A community clubhouse, two lagoon-style pools and many activities are just a sample of what Southshore Falls has to offer.
WHY YOU NEED AN AGENT WHEN BUYING A NEW HOME
Cost to You
Nothing! Any compensation given to REALTOR is recognized by the builder as a marketing fee and has no impact on the final cost of the home. Builders desire, expect and encourage REALTOR participation.
Savings to You
Are you getting what you’re entitled to have … both in quality and value? Your experienced agent knows what you should receive and what “extras” might be available.
Resale…Appreciation & Profit
Give your investment the best opportunity for appreciation at resale. Questions concerning site location, builder, design and decor are important. Your agent knows you are building not only for today … but for tomorrow.
You Are Represented
With your real estate agent, YOU are represented! Your agent’s experience, knowledge, and reputation represents strength and leverage on your behalf.
Selling New Homes Apollo Beach Florida
Sunday, October 18, 2015
How AP and the WI press does damage control for Governor Drunken Sailor
Yet again I get the impression that Associated Press does whatever it can to protect and/or repair Scott Walker’s image. Compare the headlines and stories on Walker’s recent FEC filing: From Washington Post (author – Jenna Johnson): How Scott Walker spent $90,000 a day to lose an election From U.S. News and World Report more »
Saturday, October 17, 2015
Everybody didn’t have access to the Democratic Party debate
The editor of Buzzflash at Truthout recently wrote that, “By offering the debates on television only to paid subscribers of television packages that included CNN and Fox News, the most important political interaction between candidates for president of the United States was, essentially, privatized.” If you’re living with a net-enabled digital device seemingly glued to your more »
Friday, October 16, 2015
Happy Birthday to Tampa Theatre
Happy Birthday to downtown's Tampa Theatre, the grande dame of Tampa Bay entertainment, 89 years
Thursday, October 15, 2015
Tampa Bay's Coast Bike Share passes 100,000 miles
Just 10 months into serving Tampa Bay, Coast Bike Share already has logged more than 100,000 miles
Retiring snake handler will make final appearance at annual Rattlesnake Festival
Jim Mendenhall will retire after 15 years as a main presenter at San Antonio's Rattlesnake Festival.
Wednesday, October 14, 2015
WalletHub: Tampa Bay affordable for foodies
The folks at WalletHub have crunched the numbers and the results are in: Tampa Bay ranks among the
Tuesday, October 13, 2015
Fatal crash closes westbound lanes of Gandy Boulevard in Tampa
TAMPA —A fatal crash involving a motorcycle has shut down the westbound lanes of W Gandy Boulevard between S Church and Clark avenues.
Tampa police detectives were on route to the crash site about 10:30 p.m. and did not have further information.
Monday, October 5, 2015
Al Jazeera America feature on Madison, Wisconsin homelessness
A friend of mine had shared this story on facebook and I idly clicked it not knowing what I was in for. I saw the string of cars and vans along a curved street and thought, “Hey. That looks sorta like that area by Milwaukee Street.” Oh. That *IS* that area by Milwaukee Street. The more »
Al Jazeera America feature on Madison, Wisconsin homelessness
A friend of mine had shared this story on facebook and I idly clicked it not knowing what I was in for. I saw the string of cars and vans along a curved street and thought, “Hey. That looks sorta like that area by Milwaukee Street.” Oh. That *IS* that area by Milwaukee Street. The more »
Saturday, October 3, 2015
13 ways to Unlock Tampa Bay this October
BRAD PAISLEY CONCERT (7:30 p.m. Friday Oct. 2nd)
Award-winning country artist, Brad Paisley, is
Thursday, October 1, 2015
12 ways to Unlock Tampa Bay this October
BRAD PAISLEY CONCERT (7:30 p.m. Friday Oct. 2nd)
Award-winning country artist, Brad Paisley, is
Wednesday, September 30, 2015
10 Ways to Unlock Tampa Bay in October
BRAD PAISLEY CONCERT (7:30 p.m. Oct. 2)
Award-winning country artist, Brad Paisley, is coming to the MidFlorida Credit Ampitheatre to kick off fall as part of his Crushin’ It World Tour. Featuring opening acts, Justin Moore and Mickey Guyton, this event is anticipated to be megawatt show! Get your tickets now before it’s too late.
TAMPA BAY BOAT SHOW (10 a.m. – 8 p.m. Oct. 2 - 4)
If you’re a boating enthusiast, you won’t want to miss out on Tampa’s largest and longest running boat show the first weekend of Oct. at the Tampa Convention Center. The Tampa Bay Boat Show has boats on display for sale that fit every lifestyle from luxury yachts to personal watercraft. There will be vendor booths showcasing the latest in engines, marine electronics, accessories and fishing gear, too.
TAILGATE TASTE FEST (3 p.m. – 9 p.m. Saturday Oct. 3)
Make sure to bring your appetite to Curtis Hixon Park over the weekend for the second annual Tailgate Taste Fest. Get together with your buddies for this college football showcase including live, in-game action, live music and top tier tailgating foods from 18 local restaurants.
HOWL-O-SCREAM (5 p.m. – 1 a.m. every Thursday – Sunday in October)
Halloween is just around the corner and Busch Gardens is the place to be for thrill seekers. This yearly fright fest is back for the whole month of October. Howl-o-scream includes a late-night party with haunted houses, scare zones and a live show. Leave the kids at home though as the content is not suitable or intended for children.
OKTOBERFEST (4 p.m. – 11 p.m. Oct. 9, 11 a.m. – 11 p.m. Oct. 10-11)
Wishing you were at the real Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany? Have no worries because Tampa is bringing this legendary festival to the Curtis Hixon Park. Celebrate the 6th annual Oktoberfest with plenty of beer, authentic German food, games and competitions!
MONDAY MEDITATION (5:30 p.m. – 7 p.m. Mondays until December)
There are times when everyone gets a bad case of the Mondays. However, there is a cure! Head over to the Tampa Museum of Art and join the Parbawatiya Kadampa Buddhist Center for an after work meditation class. Rid yourself of the stresses of work life with these classes consisting of guided meditation, a talk and a discussion.
MYSTERIES OF THE UNSEEN WORLD (Various times throughout October)
Get an extraordinary look into the hidden dimensions of our world at the IMAX documentary, Mysteries of the Unseen World. Expert, Louie Schwartzberg, takes viewers on an incredible journey into the unseen world of things too small, too fast, too slow or invisible to the human eye. This film is being shown at MOSI’s Florida Hospital IMAX DOME theatre all throughout the fall so you’ll have plenty of chances to check it out.
BREWS BY THE BAY (8 p.m. – 11 p.m. Wednesday Oct. 16)
Didn’t get enough beer at Oktoberfest? Lucky for you, we are keeping the beer flowing for the whole month of October. Party with the fishes while sampling more than 100 types of beer with live music at the Brews by the Bay beer and food festival at the Florida Aquarium. Come hungry and enjoy delicious cuisine from dozens of Tampa's best local restaurants while strolling among all of our amazing sea creatures.
ROCK THE YACHT DANCE PARTY (9 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. Saturday Oct. 24)
Break out the dance moves and get ready to party the night away on the high seas. The Yacht Starship will be hosting this epic cruise with live music by the C’Nergy band. This group of musicians bring a variety of talent performing the best of Old School 70's, 80's and 90's, R&B Soul, Jazz, Motown, Pop, Reggae and Rock 'n Roll.
TAYLOR SWIFT CONCERT (7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 31st)
Celebrate Halloween with mega star Taylor Swift as part of her 1989 World Tour at the Raymond James Stadium. With a huge fan following, this larger-than-life hit factory pulls out all the stops for her concerts, usually bringing onstage surprise celebrity guests to perform with her.
Sunday, September 27, 2015
Wisconsin week in review
Here’s a quickie rundown and review of recent Wisconsin political stories. WONDER BOY FAILS WONDERFULLY On Monday at 5PM Walker dropped out of the race. Well, technically he “suspended his campaign”. This LA Times cartoon sums it up for us. And this cartoon by Phil Hands sums up the average Wisconsinite’s response: Tomorrow's @WiStateJournal cartoon more »
Friday, September 25, 2015
Scott Walker plans a not so “unintimidated” public appearance in Beaver Dam today
Update: I have confirmation from Madison radio journalist Michael Crute that Scott Walker will be at the site at Noon today. I had this information 1 hour and 45 minutes in advance of the so-called “public event”. Site: Apache Stainless, 200 Industrial Dr, Beaver Dam, WI Google Map Street view Just to record what goes more »
Wednesday, September 23, 2015
Video: “Walker’s critics celebrate, supporters reminisce …”
Despite having no more than a few hours notice of the 5PM press conference announcing Walker’s drop out from the presidential campaign, protesting Wisconsinites were ready, able, and willing to serenade Wisconsin’s delusional governor. This TMJ4 footage includes just a SNIPPET of protest singing. This brief broadcast also includes snippets from Wisconsinites who do not more »
Tampa Bay wins for 2014 IIFA
India’s largest event planning organization honored Visit Tampa Bay this week for its success hosting the International Indian Film Academy awards program in 2014.
The EEMAX Global Conclave, organized by India’s Event and Entertainment Management Association, invited Visit Tampa Bay president and CEO Santiago Corrada to Mumbai Sept. 19-20. He received the group’s award on behalf of Visit Tampa Bay and helped educate Indian event planners on Visit Tampa Bay’s approach to recruiting and staging large events like IIFA. The week-long festival in April, 2014, which drew 30,000 visitors to Tampa Bay and generated more than $26 million in local economic impact.
The success of IIFA was a factor in Time/Money.com’s selection last month of Tampa Bay as the best big city to live in the Southeast.
“I was honored to be invited to participate in EEMAX Global and to accept the award on behalf of our hard-working team at Visit Tampa Bay,” Corrada said after returning to Tampa Bay. “This community has shone time and again as a destination that can produce large, international events with efficiency and grace. It’s something we do very well.”
It was Corrada’s third trip in two year to India on behalf of Tampa Bay’s tourism industry.
The gathering included nearly a dozen Indian film stars – including some who won awards in Tampa Bay last year. In addition to receiving Visit Tampa Bay’s award, Corrada also helped present other awards and joined a panel discussion to present Tampa Bay’s approach to putting on large events.
“We talked about the process, and how we use events to market the destination,” Corrada said. “Large-scale events like IIFA, large conventions or major sporting events are the perfect opportunities to introduce new people to this region we all treasure.”
The year after IIFA, Tampa Bay hosted the NCAA Women’s Final Four basketball tournament. It will host imperial sessions by the country’s two Shriners organizations in 2016; the 2017 College Football National Championship; and is in the running for the SuperBowl in 2019 or 2020.
Monday, September 21, 2015
Gawker seeks details on “a very bad story” connected with Scott Walker
It seems that both Republican communications operative Liz Mair and a writer with Buzzfeed are hinting about either the same scandalous story or differing stories that is/are related to Scott Walker – but neither is releasing the details to the public. Frustrating. Gawker is asking readers to help spill the beans completely. Gawker is providing more »
Scott Walker dropping out of campaign, 5PM Central Time, Edgewater Hotel, Madison
Wow. I expected him to hang in another month and a half! News Conference: 5PM Central Time Edgewater Hotel Madison, Wisconsin More details here. You just finished reading Scott Walker dropping out of campaign, 5PM Central Time, Edgewater Hotel, Madison! Consider leaving a comment!Visit bluecheddar.net for more news and opinion. You can contact blue cheddar more »
Saturday, September 19, 2015
Bernie Sanders appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert
Would you believe this was the first time I tuned into Colbert’s new show on CBS? Enjoy. Colbert cracking jokes on the presidential election [backup link]: The Interview [backup link]: Date of appearance: 09/18/2015 You just finished reading Bernie Sanders appearance on The Late Show with Stephen Colbert! Consider leaving a comment!Visit bluecheddar.net for more more »
Friday, September 18, 2015
Wisconsin State Journal only employs white people
I’m embarrassed that I’m so late to the party on this issue. I learned this yesterday and promptly felt like puking: “..the Wisconsin State Journal, the newspaper that proudly proclaims itself “Madison’s largest reporting team,” the second-largest newspaper in the state and the newspaper of record for our entire region, is an all-white newspaper.” SOURCE: more »
Wednesday, September 16, 2015
The backlash on Bernie Sanders begins!
Despite the fact that this [barely functioning] blog has tried to be Wisconsin-centric, I’m going to try to do some more posts to help people keep up on Bernie Sanders news. —————————————————- It appears that the establishment and its candidates have decided to quit dismissing Bernie Sanders and start attacking Bernie Sanders. The guy more »
Tuesday, September 15, 2015
If Walker could see past his enormous ego, he’d realize he’s in 7th place and has no chance
Scott Walker only has 2% in the latest national ABC poll. The average of Scott Walker’s national polls put him in 7th place according to Real Clear Politics. The Republican Party only needs 1 nominee to run for president. I suppose it’s very difficult for a megalomaniac to quit looking in the mirror long enough more »
Tuesday, September 8, 2015
10 Kid-Friendly To-Do's in Tampa Bay
Sometimes it is tough to find fun stuff for both the kids and the adults, BUT we have you covered. Check out 10 awesome things you can get into with the whole family.
1. Big Cat Rescue - The largest big cat sanctuary in the world. It is awesome!
2. Dinosaur World - After recent expansions there are tons of life size dinosaur exhibits for the kids to enjoy.
3. The Florida Aquarium - One of the best aquariums in the nation is right here in Tampa, not to mention an amazing outdoor play area and splash park for the kids.
4. Lowry Park Zoo - Family friendly and always a blast. There are so many baby animals the little ones will love!
5. MOSI, Museum of Science and Industry - Incredibly fascinating and educational, fully equipped with an IMAX theatre and ropes course.
6. Enjoy a ride on the TECO Streetcar trolleys from Downtown Tampa to Historic Ybor City (Bonus: They’re air conditioned).
7. Canoe down the Hillsborough River with Canoe Escape and take in the beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.
8. Go-kart Grand Prix - A new addition to Tampa, enjoy go karts cruising at over 40 mph at this indoor track.
9. Tour the American Victory Ship, a 455-foot marine vessel used in the Vietnam and Korean wars, now a museum docked in the Channelside District just outside the aquarium.
10. The Glazer Children's Museum is an interactive wonderland for your kids, right on the Hillsborough River. The Wizard of Oz exhibit should not be missed!
Friday, September 4, 2015
9 Awesome Kid-Friendly Activities in Tampa Bay
Sometimes it is tough to find fun stuff for both the kids and the adults, BUT we have you covered. Check out 10 awesome things you can get into with the whole family.
1. Big Cat Rescue - The largest big cat sanctuary in the world. It is awesome!
2. Dinosaur World - After recent expansions there are tons of life size dinosaur exhibits for the kids to enjoy.
3. The Florida Aquarium - One of the best aquariums in the nation is right here in Tampa, not to mention an amazing outdoor play area and splash park for the kids.
4. Lowry Park Zoo - Family friendly and always a blast. There are so many baby animals the little ones will love!
5. MOSI, Museum of Science and Industry - Incredibly fascinating and educational, fully equipped with an IMAX theatre and ropes course.
6. Enjoy a ride on the TECO Streetcar trolleys from Downtown Tampa to Historic Ybor City (Bonus: They’re air conditioned).
7. Canoe down the Hillsborough River with Canoe Escape and take in the beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife.
8. Go-kart Grand Prix - A new addition to Tampa, enjoy go karts cruising at over 40 mph at this indoor track.
9. Tour the American Victory Ship, a 455-foot marine vessel used in the Vietnam and Korean wars, now a museum docked in the Channelside District just outside the aquarium.
Wednesday, September 2, 2015
Rapper Pitbull named ambassador for Florida tourism
Miami-based rapper Pitbull is partnering with Visit Florida to promote the state as a tourism destination.
Tuesday, September 1, 2015
Oh my! George Takei coming to USF
You won't have to live too long, or really be all that prosperous for a chance to see Star Trek star turned social media sensation George Takei right here in Tampa.
"An Evening With George Takei" is scheduled at the USF Sun Dome on April 18 at 8 p.m.
“Takei’s story goes where few stories have gone before. From a childhood spent with his family wrongfully imprisoned in a Japanese Internment Camp during World War II to becoming one of the country’s leading figures in the fight for social justice, Takei remains a powerful voice on issues ranging from politics to pop culture,” the announcement said.
Tickets for the event go on sale on October 2, and the first 3,000 USF students will get in for free.
Monday, August 31, 2015
Walker goes full Forrest Gump, says Canadian border wall is “legitimate issue for us to look at”
Update: Readers who hunger for more mockery of Scott Walker should check out the #CanadaWall tag on twitter. ————————————– Today on Meet the Press, Scott Walker said that a border wall between the United States and Canada is “a legitimate issue for us to look at”. I expect his campaign will tomorrow release a “clarifying” more »
Sunday, August 30, 2015
Walker goes full Forrest Gump, says Canadian border wall is “legitimate issue for us to look at”
Update: Readers who hunger for more mockery of Scott Walker should check out the #CanadaWall tag on twitter. ————————————– Today on Meet the Press, Scott Walker said that a border wall between the United States and Canada is “a legitimate issue for us to look at”. I expect his campaign will tomorrow release a “clarifying” more »
Saturday, August 29, 2015
Woman shot while standing on Holiday street
HOLIDAY — A man fired multiple gunshots down a Pasco County street Saturday night and hit a woman who suffered a non-life-threatening wound, according to the Pasco Sheriff's Office.
Woman shot while standing on Holiday street
HOLIDAY — A man fired multiple gunshots down a Pasco County street Saturday night and hit a woman who suffered a non-life-threatening wound, according to the Pasco Sheriff's Office.
Wednesday, August 26, 2015
9 Reasons to September in Tampa Bay
Where do you September?
September has everything that makes a month worth having: August is over, the days are long, the summer heat backs off a bit, and the kids are in school -- giving everyone a little push to make the most of each weekend.
All that makes September a great time to visit Tampa Bay. Sure, you'll still appreciate the a/c, but that's true clear up to December. It's Florida, after all.
Here's what Tampa Bay has waiting for you in September:
KNOWN AND UNKNOWN (ends Sept. 3)
We here in Tampa Bay have a long and deep relationship with the people and culture of Cuba. Tampa City Councilman Charlie Miranda, a Tampa native with Cuban roots, has traveled extensively to the island, collecting art by largely undiscovered Cuban painters along the way. His collection is now on display at the TECO Art Gallery, part of the Tampa Electric Co., headquarters in downtown. Stop by during regular business hours to explore the exhibit.
TAMPA BAY THEATRE FESTIVAL (Sept. 4-6)
Set aside part of your Labor Day weekend to take in the flood of live stage productions that will tread the boards at downtown’s Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Stageworks Theatre in the Channel District and at Hillsborough Community College’s Ybor City campus. This beats TV any day of the week. Aspiring actors and playwrights can attend workshops during the day. Henry Lennix, a star of the TV series “Blacklisted,” will teach a master acting course Sept. 5.
NAPOLEON WINAMITE: Tampa Theatre wine fest (Sept. 10-17)
You’ll want to Vote for Pinot instead of Pedro, when downtown’s historic Tampa Theatre hosts its annual wine fest, complete with an “under the stars” showing of cult classic “Napoleon Dynamite.” Come dressed as your favorite “Napoleon” character and break out your sweet dance moves to make this year’s party a hit.
TAMPA BAY WINE & FOOD FESTIVAL (Sept. 12-13)
Downtown’s Straz Center for the Performing Arts tickles your taste buds during this year’s Tampa Bay Wine and Food Festival. The festival includes the Southern Wine & Food Gala and Auction. Since this is Florida, black tie is optional. The event also includes live entertainment and games. Attendees will be able to bid on bottles of wine during the silent auction. Tastings will also be available.
1905 DAY AT COLUMBIA RESTAURANT (Sept. 20)
Florida’s oldest restaurant turns back the clock on Sept. 20 when prices go back to what they were in 1905, the year the Gonzmart family founded Tampa Bay’s most storied restaurant. From noon to 7 p.m., the Columbia’s Chicken & Yellow Rice “Ybor” will cost you less than $3. The signature 1905 Salad will be under $2. And a cup of coffee will be 5 cents. It’s first come, first served – no reservations on 1905 Day.
“ONCE” (Sept. 22-27)
The Straz Center for the Performing Arts begins its 2015-16 Broadway Season with “Once,” winner of eight Tony Awards. The play tells the story of a Dublin busker ready to give up when he meets a young woman takes an interest in his songs. Their growing relationship echoes in his music. Cast with musicians who play their own instruments, “Once” is a story about reaching for your dreams, casting off your fears and finding connections through the power of music.
HOWL-O-SCREAM (Preview Sept. 25)
Give your vocal chords a different kind of work-out when Busch Gardens Tampa transforms into a haunted house for weekends in October. Previews are Sept. 25-26. During the day, you can scream your way through rides on Falcon’s Fury, Kumba and Cheetah Hunt. When night falls, you’ll be screaming for an entirely different reason as you make your way through the park’s mazes of horror. That thing that moved in the corner? I’m sure it was just a leaf.
MUSEUM DAY LIVE (Sept. 26)
Now’s your chance to see the Greek statues in the Tampa Museum of Art or the ancient dugout canoe at the Tampa Bay History Center. The Smithsonian Institute makes it easy on Sept. 26 during its national museum event. Print out a ticket voucher and head for that museum you’ve always wanted to explore. Along with TMA and the history center, downtown’s opulent Henry B. Plant Museum and the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts are also participating in Museum Day Live. So are The Florida Aquarium, Ybor City Museum State Park, and Cracker Country at the Florida State Fairgrounds.
Monday, August 24, 2015
Ciro’s Speakeasy – A blast from the past
It begins with a knock.
A small, rectangular window slides open and a pair of eyes study you.
A voice whispers: “What’s the password?”
The correct reply elicits entrance into a dark room without a window in sight. The eyes adjust, and a vision of the roaring 20’s appears -- the intimacy of being in a private club; the mixologist in a bow tie pouring an Old Fashioned; the sounds of smoky jazz emanating throughout the restaurant. You are now one of a select few allowed inside Ciro’s Speakeasy & Supper Club.
The present melts away, replaced by the feeling of experiencing the days of prohibition and intimate, off the beaten path private clubs for illicit cocktails and gangsters.
“I like the dress code, the different kind of banter,” said Julie Parsons, the Manager of Ciro’s sister restaurant Boca. “There’s an emotional connection here that makes me want to dress the part and say, ‘OK, wow me!’”
Located on the ground floor of a condo building on the corner of Bayshore Boulevard and Howard with not a sign in sight, even the exterior maintains the speakeasy secrecy. In addition to the main room, the theme is continued with eight semi-private, curtained booths before reaching the back wall of the restaurant, where a sliding bookcase reveals a new, hidden, private room – complete with sofas, chairs and seating for 20.
“It’s an artistry, it’s a craft to make the cocktails and the atmosphere one that people will remember,“ said bartender Matt Pingol.
The menu specializes in single serving, small plate items meant to be shared, such as truffle fries and charred octopus. It’s all part of the scene which USA Today’s 10Best named as one of the Top 10 Romantic Restaurants in Tampa.
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