PJTampaBay

PJ Tampa Bay Story Winner of the Week

2011-03-30T08:55:00.001-07:00

From: Robyn Huber

TAMPA, FL – The 1Voice Foundation, a non-profit charity dedicated to supporting children with cancer and their families, is working with the Hillsborough County School District to open the 1Voice Academy, the first school in the United State for children with cancer.

The Foundation is kicking off its $5 million capital funding campaign with an open house at the Home Theater Gallery, 3300 S. Dale Mabry Highway in Tampa, on Thursday, March 24 from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. “Children on treatment who miss school fall behind academically and resent their disease and the alienation it causes even more,” said Mary Ann Massolio, the Executive Director of 1Voice Foundation whose own son passed away from cancer. “Plus, many parents have to miss work to stay home with them. This can lead to financial devastation and add to the 80% divorce rate that parents of chronically-ill children face. The 1Voice Academy will provide children with a safe learning environment while their immune systems are compromised, such as in the 7 to 10 days following chemotherapy.”

“I always have to be vigilant about whether there is a flu or strep going around school,” said Natalie Willis, whose daughter, Mandy, was diagnosed with cancer when she was 7. “Mandy had to miss a lot of days even though she felt well, but she couldn’t risk coming into contact with a sick child. The truth is some parents send their kids to school even with a low fever or other signs of infection.”

“One of the greatest challenges we faced with Daniel were his counts were horrible, but otherwise he felt good,” said Holly Wade, whose 9-year-old son passed away from cancer. “My choice was to have him homebound, and he missed being around people his own age and his own friends. With this Academy, kids can be around classmates who aren’t going to look at you funny because you’re bald, or because you have to get up and throw up, or have an IV bag hanging off of you or a shunt. It’s an opportunity to make these kids feel as normal as possible in the most abnormal conditions you can imagine.”

Holly and her husband, Capt. Bill Wade with Tampa Fire Rescue, will be among the families on hand at the open house.

In addition to offering classes, the 1Voice Academy will offer after-school programs for tutoring, art and music, and will provide support groups and programs for parents and siblings.

About 1Voice Foundation
The 1Voice Foundation began in 2008 when six members of the Tampa Bay community – each having prior experience with pediatric cancer programs – realized organizations focused on research and organizations focused on assisting families were competing for dollars instead of working together. The 1Voice Foundation’s Executive Director is MaryAnn Massolio, who was the executive director of the Children’s Cancer Center for 10 years and who knows firsthand what it’s like when your child is diagnosed with cancer. In addition to researching cures for cancer, The 1Voice Foundation provides resources and support groups for patients and their families, outings for children with cancer, scholarships, and funeral assistance. The non-profit organization currently does not receive any state or federal funding and is dependent on corporate and private donations.

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St. Pete revs up once again

2011-03-25T07:25:00.001-07:00

Here's what's going on this weekend in the Tampa area:

ST. PETERSBURG - A full weekend of racing is already in gear in St. Petersburg.

The festivities officially started with a Thursday night parade down Central Avenue. It featured last year's champ, Will Power, and this year, Budweiser added a float and its world-renowned Clydesdale horses.

A big party followed at North Straub Park where fans got the opportunity to meet the drivers.

"Anytime we bring in the Honda Grand Prix, it brings 150,000 people to a downtown spot. So the hotels are filled, restaurants will be packed, there's a lot of economic impact with this event," Mayor Bill Foster offered. "And then, of course, you've got the impact of a three-hour commercial on national television."

The weekend of racing wraps up with the main event, Sunday's Honda Grand Prix.

There are several closures in the downtown area. Through race weekend, the following roads will be closed or have limited access:

CLOSED - First Ave. S. from First St. to Bayshore
LIMITED ACCESS on Second Ave. S from First to Second St. S
CLOSED - Beach Dr. from Central Ave. to First Ave. S
CLOSED - First St. from First Ave. S to Fifth Ave. S
LIMITED ACCESS - First St. S from Fifth Ave. S to Eighth Ave. S AND Sixth Ave. S from Second St. to First St. from March 25 through March 27

For more traffic and parking information, click on over to the city's website.

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Coach Joe Gibbs Presents the “Game Plan for Life” in Tampa

2011-03-22T13:52:00.001-07:00

Tampa, FL February 2, 2011 – Now celebrating its 40th year, the Tampa Bay Leadership Prayer Breakfast again welcomes 3 time Super Bowl Champion and 3 time NASCAR Champion - Coach Joe Gibbs who will talk about his “Game Plan for Life.” This year’s breakfast event is scheduled for Tuesday, May 10, 2011 at the Tampa Convention Center where #11 FedEx NASCAR Gibbs Racing Team Showcar will be on display. Doors open at 6:30 a.m. for the breakfast buffet with the program beginning at 7:00 a.m. and finishing at 8:15 a.m.

The Game Plan for Life is a fail proof, long-term approach that will change you from the inside and impact every area of your life—from relationships to finances to your view of what winning really means. You’ll find true success, relevance and lasting peace if you follow it.

Attendance this year is expected to reach 1200 and tickets will be going fast. Prominent business, political, government, and military leaders will be in attendance. Sponsored by the Tampa chapter of CBMC, a national organization focused on discipleship and leadership, the event draws many men and women.

Individual tickets are $30 and tables of ten are $310 available for purchase on line (with additional transaction fee) at www.tampabaybreakfast.com. Corporate sponsorships are available, and this year, the organizing committee is looking for those who can serve as Assistant Coaches by hosting each table at the event.

By: Tom Behrens

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Harlem Globetrotters at St.Pete Times Forum

2011-03-11T09:06:00.001-08:00

When:

March 12 : 2 p.m.
March 12 : 7 p.m.

On Sale Date:: November 22, 2010

Price:: $15, $25, $33, $51, $106

Event Phone Number:: 813-301-2500

St. Pete Times Forum

401 Channelside Drive

Tampa, FL 33602

813-301-2500

Watch these guys, dribble, pass and dunk like never before. The legendary Harlem Globetrotters are celebrating their 85th consecutive season of tearing up the court with their magical 2011 "4 Times the Fun" World Tour that stops in Tampa at the St. Pete Times Forum on March 12, 2011. Don't miss your chance to watch two of their performaces that day. The first is at 2 p.m and the second is 7 p.m. More information can be found atwww.harlemglobetrotters.com.

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March Teacher Month

2011-03-09T11:43:00.001-08:00

Here's an interesting event for Tampa Bay for the month of March:

March 01, 2011 - March 31, 2011
Address: 5145 Harvey Tew Rd., Plant City, FL 33565
Times: 9am to 5pm
Admission: free teachers
Contact: Nicole Randall
Phone: 813-717-9865
Email: dinosaurworld@scrtc.com

Free teacher with a guest every day in March to Dinosaur World. Valid teacher ID required.

Click here to visit their website

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Recycling fishing line for marine life

2011-03-08T12:37:00.001-08:00

Here's an interesting article about our marine life here in Florida:

TAMPA - Many people consider Florida to be the fishing capital of the world. But with so many anglers comes a lot of fishing line.

Images of dolphins and turtles tangled in fishing line or nets are disturbing and unforgivable.

"As an environmental scientist, as a person who loves the outdoors, I like wildlife and I feel bad when I see them suffering in a way like that," said Kevin Misiewicz, an environmental scientist with Tampa Bay Watch.

Fishing line causes needless suffering, due to some anglers' improper disposal of it. Florida's Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission's produced a video on fishing line recycling to put stop the suffering.

A popular reminder of this is Winter the dolphin. Her tale was amputated after it became entangled in fishing line. Most animals aren't as lucky -- especially birds.

Misiewicz explained, "The hooks will get lodged under the wing, the wing gets pinned down, and then they can't fly. If they can't fly, they can't catch food, if they can't catch food they can't feed their young, and often times the whole nest can parish."

There is a way to prevent these disasters: monofilament fishing line recycling bins posted at many major fishing areas.

Misiewicz helps clean the bins. While cleaning, he notes items of garbage that are not supposed to be in it.

Click here to learn more.

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PJ Tampa Bay Story Winner of the Week

2011-02-28T14:29:00.001-08:00

From: Ruth Doroslovac

Flowers To Eat is an independently woman owned business, maker of delicious and unique fruit and vegetable arrangements right here in the Temple Terrace community.
It was the first fruit bouquet store to open in Temple Terrace in the fall of 2004. The owner, Ruth Doroslovac had created arrangements for her family events and then gone to Washington D.C. to train with Food Network chef and winner, James Parker.
Coming back to Temple Terrace, she opened her store offering only 8 fruit bouquets. But when customers asked for chocolate covered strawberries, she responded by creating many unique arrangements using gourmet dark, milk and white chocolate. She also added apple wedges and her famous Banana Bites™.
With the downturn in the economy over the last few years, Ruth saw many people who had willingly or unwillingly left corporate America and were looking for a small business in which they could showcase their creativity. In November of 2009, Flowers to Eat began offering classes to teach budding entrepreneurs the tips and techniques of making bouquets like the ones that they offer. Hands on classes have become very popular and attracted students ready to start their own new business and have come from as far away as Taiwan, Turkey, Ecuador and Costa Rica. Now people in many countries are enjoying Flowers to Eat type of bouquets and the store owners are expanding their product lines to create their own variations using the fruits and vegetables that are popular in their countries.

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BALLROOM DANCERS GO TOE-TO-TOE IN TAMPA BAY DANCE-OFF

2011-02-25T07:35:00.001-08:00

TAMPA, FL - Ballroom and Latin dancers from around the country are gathering for the 10th Annual Florida Superstars Dancesport Championships, being held in Tampa next week.

Wearing their most enchanting outfits, dancers hope to dazzle the judges as they compete for $85,000 in cash and prizes at the Hyatt Regency Hotel, Downtown Tampa, where the ballroom will be decked out in a Venetian Masquerade theme.

"This is an exciting and glamorous spectator sport where cheering for your favorite couples is all part of the fun," said Michael Chapman, event organizer. "You'll see amazing dancers of every age and skill level, from talented professionals and youths to dedicated students dancing with their teachers, just like on Dancing with the Stars. See them perform the Cha Cha, Rumba, Waltz, Quickstep, Jive and more. The competition runs morning to night, so you can come for a session or stay for the entire day."

Click here to continue reading.

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Lady Gaga's Monster Ball Tour

2011-02-24T11:26:00.001-08:00

For all of you Lady Gaga fans out there, here's your chance to see here in concert in Tampa:

When:

April 16 : 8 p.m.

On Sale Date:: October 2, 2010

Price:: $64.65 - $193.80

Event Phone Number:: 813-301-2500

St. Pete Times Forum

401 Channelside Drive

Tampa, FL 33602

813-301-2500

See this hot, controversial, meat-wearing pop sensation live at the Forum on April 16, 2011 at 8 p.m.

Lady Gaga has captivated audiences around the globe with her stunning international smash, The Monster Ball tour, presented by Virgin Mobile. In 2010 the tour has taken her throughout Europe and North American, where she received rave reviews everywhere she stopped. With the majority of North American dates already sold out, Lady Gaga has announced she will be extending her North American 2011 tour, now including a stop at Tampa's St. Pete Times Forum on Saturday, April 16. The 2011 North American Monster Ball Tour, produced globally by Live Nation and presented by Virgin Mobile, will begin on February 19th, 2011 at Atlantic City's Boardwalk Hall, taking her spectacular show to top arenas and a host of new cities.

Click here to continue reading.

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Valentine's Day Events

2011-02-14T13:47:00.001-08:00

Here's a great website to see what you and your love one can do for Valentine's Day in Tampa:

All the best cupid-inspired events for you lovebirds out there this Valentine's Day

Ah, it's that time of year again - drugstore aisles are exploding with red confetti and singing teddy bears to let you know it's time to pay a little extra attention to your sweetie this Valentine's Day. Fear not, young lovers, you don't have to rely soley on cheesy gifts to show your heart's desire that you care. We've searched out the best romantic dinners, heart-filled events and just plain fun couple activities to make sure you're feeling the love this Valentine's Day!

Click here to go to the website to see the events.

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Florida State Fair (2011)

2011-02-11T08:45:00.001-08:00

When:

Daily (ends February 21)

On Sale Date:: December 22, 2010

Price:: $5-$12 General Admission

Event Phone Number:: 813-621-7821

http://www.floridastatefair.com

Florida State Fairgrounds

4800 U.S. Highway 301

Tampa, FL 33604

813-621-7821

Tickets are on sale now for Florida's biggest event. The Florida State Fair is being held Feb.10-21 at the State Fairgrounds. This year's event features many of the attractions you've come to love and expect. There will be amusement rides galore, ongoing indoor and outdoor entertainment, food and merchant vendors and state competitions.

Don't miss the shows and attractions at the Entertainment Hall or outdoor events such asCircus Hollywood and Willy Washboard’s Jamboree. Magic shows take place on the Children’s Stage. Catch the outdoor rodeo before hopping on the giant slide. This year’s fair boasts of 106 rides ranging from ferris wheels, merry-go-rounds, bumper cars, tilt-a-whirls and roller coasters.

In addition, for more than 100 years, the Florida State Fair has hosted competitions in a variety of areas. This year is no exception. People will be coming from all over the state to showcase their arts, crafts, produce and livestock. Competitions include baking, knitting, painting, horticulture, woodcarving and dance competitions.

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Aquarium undergoes massive expansion

2011-02-03T13:14:00.001-08:00

Here's some interesting news in Tampa Bay:

CLEARWATER - The Clearwater Marine Aquarium plans a $12 million expansion, hopefully to be largely completed before the September release of "Winter: A Dolphin's Tale."

The motion picture features Winter, the Aquarium's star attraction. She lost her tail when it became entangled a crab trap line, but was later fitted with a prosthesis and has been featured in broadcast and print articles around the world.

The expansion will essentially create a new Clearwater Marine Aquarium: new lobby and gift shop area, new restrooms, and much larger facilities for treating rescued dolphin and sea turtles.

"We'll go from about 400,000 gallons now to about 2 million gallons," said director David Yates.

Instead of gathering around a railing for dolphin shows, the public will sit in a 1,000 seat outdoor auditorium. There will also be a new parking garage and additional surface parking.

Click here to learn more.

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Story Winner of the Week

2011-01-31T13:07:00.001-08:00

The winner of this weeks story is:

Sean O’Cuinneagain, owner of WineMall, an online wine retailer, had been pondering the idea for a while. But on this day while he and friend Andy Broden sipped a glass of Malbec, O’Cuinneagain sketched it out on a paper napkin.

The first version of the Vin-Aire wine aerator was born.

“We felt this was something we were passionate about,” O’Cuinneagain said. “Something we could all go in the same direction about.”

Broden, a Westchase resident and wine broker, had been selling O’Cuinneagain wine for years making him the best “partner in wine” for the venture.

“Andy had the contacts and he saw the vision,” O’Cuinneagain said.

That first sketch was about two years ago. These days, O’Cuinneagain and Broden, are steadily building up a Vin-Aire following.

Vin-Aire is primarily Internet based, but the company is in talks to sell the aerators ($29.99 each at www.vin-aire.com) in a retail setting. And former Tampa Bay Lightning hockey player Zenon Konopka, a stakeholder in the business, is using the aerator to raise money for the New York Islanders’ Children’s Foundation.

Konopka was traded to the Islanders last year. For the next month, a portion of all Vin-Aire sales will go to the foundation.

“After two years we’re so excited,” said O’Cuinneagain, a Lutz resident. “The great thing about it is it’s not just for wine connoisseurs. It’s for regular people who enjoy wine.”

On a recent day, O’Cuinneagain and his staff demonstrated how the product works. You simply place the clear Vin-Aire device over your wine glass and slowly pour the wine through the device. A “hsssss” sound can be heard as the wine aerates through the device.

It takes about 10 seconds as opposed to the hour or so it takes for red wine to aerate naturally.

By exposing wine to air, or “letting it breathe,” the wine heats up slightly allowing the aroma and ingredients to release. The result is generally a more mellow, better tasting glass of wine.

The idea is to make an $8 bottle of wine taste like a $30 bottle. The Vin-Aire isn’t the only wine aerator on the market. However, the lower price and ease of use make it a better product than its competitor, O’Cuinneagain said.

Fred Moses, a Westchase resident, was one of the first to purchase the Vin-Aire.

“When you get home from work and you want to have a glass of wine, you don’t want to have to pour it and stare at the glass for hours,” said Moses, a commercial banker.

“Your red wine taste completely different after using it,” he said. “It’s a good product.”

Sales for the Vin-Aire are steady, he says. In 2011, the company will market the product to wine stores, restaurants and bars. The European market is in their sights as well.

From a simple sketch to an intentional sensation—that is the hope.

“A lot of people have ideas but not a lot of people do them,” Broden said. “We decided to seize this opportunity."

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Time with family, team is precious for Tampa Bay Lightning coach Guy Boucher

2011-01-28T09:06:00.001-08:00

Here's a recent article from our Tampa Bay Lightnings:

Martin Raymond said he always knew what time it was and he didn't even have to look at a clock. All he had to hear was the knock on his door. Raymond, an assistant coach last year for AHL Hamilton, was renting a basement apartment from his boss and longtime friend, then-Hamilton coach Guy Boucher. "At 11:30 p.m. there always would be someone knocking on my door wanting to talk about the power play, the penalty kill, whatever it was," Raymond said this week. "He'd put the kids to bed and then come knocking at my door." Raymond, now a Lightning assistant, is not as accessible this season, seeing as he has his own place, so Boucher, Tampa Bay's first-year coach, works alone, watching video, pouring over scouting reports and copious notes, sometimes until 4 a.m. It does not matter if he is home or the team is on the road.

"My biggest worry is that I miss something, an edge somebody sees that I don't see," said Boucher, 39, in his first NHL season and the league's youngest bench boss. "I'm possessed by the idea I have to find an edge."

Click here to continue reading.

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Runner Up Story

2011-01-26T13:37:00.001-08:00

Here is the runner up story fir our story contest:

Only Job News USA allows an employer to effectively reach potential employees using different media methods at a cost effective rate! Job News provides comprehensive multi-media recruitment solutions, such as a local employment website (i.e.www.jobnewstampa.com ), weekly employment publications (widely distributed in places such as retail, learning facilities, and both indoor and outdoor rack distributions), Job Fairs and broadcast advertising. We work with both local and national businesses to better help them reach candidates in their specific markets at a cost more reasonable than traditional newspaper or web only products. Not only are we proud of our “local market focus” but we are proud to sponsor and organize 5-6 career fairs annually. Our career fairs focus on attracting the Tampa Bay local talent to match our Tampa Bay businesses. Our next Career Fair is February 9th, 2011 at the Tampa Wyndham Westshore Hotel from 10am-2pm. Some of the participating companies are Progressive Insurance, AFLAC, ABC Networks, 20-20 Companies, Valet Waste, Waste Management, Tampa Bay Business Journal, Lokey Automotive, Ferman Automotive, Avis, CarMax, The Secret Service, One Touch Direct, Amerilife, Cellular Sales of Central Florida, Verizon and many others! The career fair is FREE to candidates, which includes parking and we are proud to have FrankCrum Staffing participate in a resume review session, where candidates can have their resumes looked at and critiqued. As the General Sales Manager of the Tampa market, I am big on our local Tampa Bay community. We like to give back! I am proud to be a part of an organization that focuses on what many other recruitment solution organizations do not, matching local talent with local companies. To register as a candidate at the career fair visit www.jobnewstampa.com and again it is free! To participate as an exhibitor, please feel free to contact me directly atfkneitel@jobnewsusa.com or at 813-875-8555. We look forward to seeing you all there! And, stay tuned for our next career fair to be held April 12th at the Marriot Roosevelt in the St. Petersburg/Clearwater area!
Address: 5601 Mariner Street
Suite #102
Tampa, FL 33609

Hillsborough County
www.jobnewstampa.com (local website) and our national website iswww.jobnewsusa.com

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This Week's PJ Tampa Bay Story Winner

2011-01-24T13:38:00.001-08:00

Sherry Sexton

Business Consultant, Entrepreneur, and Author

President of Imagine Coaching

www.imaginecoaching.net

sherry@imaginecoaching.net

A strong component of my coaching business is the element of social corporate responsibility. I am a business consultant for those starting a business or enhancing their existing business. I primarily work with women entrepreneurs. Having said that, I give two women who meet the qualifications (work as hard as I work for you), the “Gift of a Year” every year since starting my business. Most of women have been seriously committed and their businesses have grown exponentially.

Although my coaching practice encompasses an international scope, I feel a strong connection to my own Tampa Bay community in terms of volunteering. Since I work mostly with women, the charities that I am most attracted to are those involving women and children. All Children’s Hospital has always pulled on my heart strings, my daughter and I volunteer there when moving to FL in 1991. In the past two years, I served as co-chairperson (2009) and then chairperson (2010) of the Annual Charity Ball- both an honor and a thrill.

This year, I have chosen to be involved with “Faces of Courage” who provide life enriching camping experiences for children and families touched by cancer and blood disorders. Having recently published a book about women entrepreneurs, The T-Shirt To Prove it! - The Passionate Journey of 25 Women Entrepreneurs, I am currently working with Peggie Sherry, Founder of Faces of Courage to set up a book signing with proceeds going to their upcoming camp, “Women of Color”. Their Camp Motto: Cancer is Serious, Camp is Serious FUN!!!

I have been fortunate to give freely to any and all charities who have asked for a donation, either books or complimentary coaching sessions. I can only hope that I will continue to achieve success and in turn, pay it forward!!! 

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2011 Seminole Hard Rock Gasparilla Pirate Fest

2011-01-20T12:36:00.001-08:00

The Pirates are COMING to Tampa:

On January 29th, 2011, the Gasparilla Pirates will be invading Tampa, bringing treasures and festivities. On the Saturday before there will be this event for kids and families.

Click here to get more info.

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Bucs lower cost of some tickets for 2011

2011-01-19T11:21:00.001-08:00

Here's some recent news about this years Bucs games:

Thousands of season ticket prices have been reduced by up to 20 percent, with adult tickets starting at $35 per game.

Click here to learn more.

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Holiday ice rink

2011-01-14T08:25:00.001-08:00

Here's is an article that not many would have expected in Tampa:

I congratulate Mayor Pam Iorio and the city of Tampa for their wonderful foresight with the Curtis Hixon Ice Rink.

Who would have imagined that a temporary ice rink would draw over 22,000 ice skaters to downtown Tampa? Who would have envisioned that we would see children playing with snowballs adjacent to the Hillsborough River? And who would have dreamed that the city could arrange such a venue at virtually no cost to taxpayers?

My family, like many others, enjoyed the ice rink numerous times during the holidays. We especially enjoyed the laughter, the nightlife and the enhanced ambiance at Curtis Hixon Park. We hope this new tradition continues in Tampa for many years!

Rudy Fernandez

Tampa

Click here to learn more.

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Tampa Bay Lightning's Stamkos, St. Louis named to NHL All-Star Game

2011-01-11T12:03:00.001-08:00

Here's some news about our Tampa Bay Lightnings:

Times staff
Posted: Jan 11, 2011 12:11 PM

Tampa Bay Lightning center Steven Stamkos and right wing Marty St. Louis have been named to the 2011 NHL All-Star Game.

For St. Louis, it will be his franchise-record sixth appearance in the game, and his sixth straight appearance. He was also selected as a starter in 2003-04.

St. Louis has posted 18 goals, 53 points, two power play goals and five game-winners. He ranks second in the NHL in assists, road assists with 21, power-play assists with 21, and tied for second for home assists with 29.

Stamkos, who represented the Lightning in the 2008-09 NHL YoungStars Game, will be making his first career all-star appearance in Raleigh.

Stamkos has posted 31 goals, 13 power-play goals, six game-winning goals and 57 points in 43 games this season.

He ranks second in the NHL for goals and points and is tied for the league lead for game-winning goals.

The All-Stars will play in the 2011 NHL All-Star Game on Sunday, Jan. 30 at the RBC Center in Raleigh, N.C.

Click here to learn more.

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Endless Fondue at The Melting Pot

2011-01-07T08:14:00.001-08:00

Do you like fondues? For this whole month of January 2011, The Melting Pot (in Tampa) is giving you Endless Fondue! Read below for details:

Our New Year's Gift to you - Endless Fondue is back for a limited time!

$39 per person*

January 3rd through January 31st

Join us at The Melting Pot to eat your heart out with endless fondue!

Endless Fondue menu includes:

Unlimited Cheese Fondue of your choice

Unlimited Salad of your choice

Unlimited Eat Your Heart Out entree includes:

filet, shrimp, chicken, teriyaki sirloin and pasta

Unlimited Chocolate Fondue of your choice

Make your reservations today - Endless Fondue reservations don't last long!

Click here to learn more.

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Bucs eye Luck’s decision

2011-01-05T11:02:00.001-08:00

Here's some recent news about our beloved Bucs in Tampa Bay:

By IRA KAUFMAN

TAMPA—The Carolina Panthers aren’t the only NFL team monitoring Andrew Luck’s future.

The Panthers own the No. 1 overall pick in the April draft and they are hoping Luck, a redshirt sophomore quarterback, declares himself eligible by Jan. 15 instead of returning to Stanford. Luck has been labeled one of the premier quarterback prospects of the past 30 years and Carolina sorely needs a new face for a franchise that bottomed out at 2-14 in John Fox’s final year on the sidelines.

NFC South rivals like the Buccaneers are also keenly interested in Luck’s decision.

Tampa Bay’s defense already has to face a pair of Pro Bowl quarterbacks—Drew Brees of New Orleans and Atlanta’s Matt Ryan—twice every season. Ryan is only 25 and Brees turns 32 on Jan. 15, the same day that Luck must announce his intentions.

Luck could defy conventional wisdom and return to Stanford, especially in the unliklely event that Coach Jim Harbaugh comes back. The NFL’s uncertain labor situation might persuade Luck to bypass the 2011 draft because of the fear a lockout could leave him idle this fall.

Click here to continue reading.

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Christmas 2010

2010-12-22T07:38:00.001-08:00

Only a couple more days till Christmas. If you have not yet gotten all the gifts to give to friends and family, here is a great website to get great ideas from. You can also get ideas for meals, games, etc.

Have a very merry holidays Tampa Bay!

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Vertical Ventures

2010-12-17T08:06:00.001-08:00

Here's a very cool present idea for adventurers out there in Tampa:

Intro-to-Belay Class for Two ($30) or $30 to Spend on Merchandise and Services (Pay $15)

This holiday season put your relationship on the rocks. But instead of stony stares, give your loved one the gift of stony stairs: Spend just $30 for an Intro-to-Belay rock climbing class for two at Vertical Ventures (a $72 value). This wired offer includes gear for two during your visit (including shoes, harness, and chalk bag) as well as a return visit to practice your new skills. Already big time on the (fake) boulders? Opt for $30 in merchandise or other services for just $15. Vertical Ventures was the first indoor rock climbing gym in Florida, and today it has more than 6,000 square feet of climbing. Every wall offers large, top-roped routes and smaller boulder problems, and every day new routes are set -- which will really help alleviate the ups and downs you feel about any type of workout. Leave the haul bag and climb on to today's deal before it hits rock bottom.

50%

savings
108

purchased
2 Days

Click here to learn more:

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Commission, Waste Management partner to green sporting events

2010-12-16T08:02:00.001-08:00

Here is an interesting article to help eco efforts in Tampa Bay:

The Tampa Bay Sports Commission and Waste Management plan to help make local events greener.

Waste Management (NYSE: WM) will offer recycling services for cardboard, paper, plastics, glass bottles, aluminum cans and other materials for each Tampa Bay Sports Commission sponsored event within the Tampa Bay area.

The Tampa Bay Sports Commission is focused on generating social and economic impact through the vehicle of sports and works with more than 100 youth and amateur events on annual basis. The events produce more than 100,000 hotel room nights annually and attract hundreds of thousands of visitors, tourism executives said in a release.

“Sustainability continues to be an enormous priority for our community and for our sporting events,” said Rob Higgins, executive director of the Tampa Bay Sports Commission, in a prepared statement.

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Despite departures, Rays confident about 2011

2010-12-14T12:04:00.001-08:00

Here is some recent news about our very own Tampa Bay Rays:

ST. PETERSBURG -- Rays fans have endured the pain of seeing Carlos Pena and Carl Crawford sign contracts with other teams, and more are likely to follow.

Rather than remain cranky, perhaps a change of mindset is in order, and a William Wordsworth passage is just the right tonic as the classic romantic poet penned:

Though nothing can bring back the hour
Of splendour in the grass, of glory in the flower;
We will grieve not, rather find
Strength in what remains behind ...

Even though he wrote that long before computers -- or even typewriters -- Wordsworth's words should resonate with Rays fans. Despite the changes, there is a lot to draw strength about in what remains behind.

Click here to learn more.

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Remembering Coach McKay's winning ways

2010-12-08T07:48:00.001-08:00

Here is the most recent news on our Tampa Bay Buccs:

TAMPA - As the story goes, John McKay, already an icon as football coach at the University of Southern California, was dining with his buddy, Alabama's Paul "Bear" Bryant. They were at Chasen's, then the ultimate see-and-be-seen spot in Beverly Hills.

The waiter approached.

"Coach McKay," he said, "Mr. Sinatra has a table in back and wants you to stop by."

McKay, unflinching: "You tell him to come up and see us."

A few minutes later, there was Frank Sinatra, paying homage.

Yes, John McKay absolutely did it his way. At USC, where his steady stream of one-liners played well with the Hollywood set, he won four national championships. McKay was the king.

Then he gave it all away to join an NFL expansion franchise. Fans in Los Angeles thought he was crazy. McKay probably agreed when his Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost their first 26 games.

But McKay's plan worked. The Bucs went from worst to first, coming within 10 points of a Super Bowl appearance in 1979, just two years after the 0-and-26 nightmare. In turn, McKay added to his legacy, showing a level of determination that wasn't required when overseeing a college-football dynasty.

McKay will be posthumously inducted into the Bucs' Ring of Honor (joining his former defensive end, Lee Roy Selmon, the Pro Football Hall of Famer) at halftime in today's game against the Atlanta Falcons at Raymond James Stadium.

Click here to read more.

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Miracle on Cleveland St.: 40 Tons of Snow Expected to Hit Downtown Clearwater December 4th

2010-12-07T08:42:00.001-08:00

Here's an article to show you what happened in downtown clearwater on December 4th:

With nearly 40 tons of snow and 2 toboggan snow slides, Downtown Clearwater’s Miracle on Cleveland Street is back on December 4th with Carolers, SANTA and a special Christmastrain to take kids over to the Christmas Village!

Clearwater, FL, November 9, 2009 - Who says it never snows in Florida? The Clearwater Downtown Partnership figured out how to make it snow at their inaugural Christmas event called Miracle on Cleveland St. last December. 20 tons of snow graced Cleveland Street along with 2500 attendees - many of which were children who came out in full force to ride the toboggan snow slide and see SANTA. This December 4th, there will be nearly 40 tons of snow, 2 giant toboggan slides and a play snow area for those infamous snow-ball fights!

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Woman’s Club Fulfills Wishes of Children at Joshua House

2010-12-03T09:09:00.001-08:00

You can check socks off the Christmas list

Lutz, Fl (11/5/2010) – The GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club conservation initiative has enabled them to provide four hundred and eighty socks for the children at Joshua House. That is six pairs for each child residing on campus, enabling them to check off one item for each child on the Christmas Wish List.

“In August I presented the membership with a challenge. For each pair of athletic shoes brought to a general club meeting for recycling via the Nike Reuse a Shoe program the Board would purchase a six pack of socks for a child at Joshua House,” said Patricia Murphy Conservation Community Project Coordinator for the GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club. “The response has been amazing! Last year we didn’t have much interest in the program and I thought this would be a good way to encourage recycling and help the kids at Joshua House. Initially I requested $250 for the project budget for the forty children currently living on campus but we started the new program three months ago and we have already recycled sixty three pairs of athletic shoes.”

The Friends of Joshua House recently published the Christmas Wish List for the children at Joshua House, “The timing was perfect,” said Murphy, “we had the size information and I went shopping for the kids last weekend and dropped off our first donation today.”

Joshua House is a safe haven for abused, abandoned, and neglected children, offering a therapeutic residential group care program that provides a protected, nurturing, family-like environment for children six - seventeen. These children have been removed from their homes due to crisis and many have been through multiple foster homes. The Wish List is available on their website at www.FriendsofJoshuaHouse.com.

GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club (NTJWC) is a 501 (c)3, non-profit organization dedicated to community improvement by enhancing the lives of others through volunteer service. The GFWC was established in 1890, and is an international organization of community based women’s clubs. Annual contributions of GFWC clubs average 13 million hours and $37 million dollars donated through 168,400 local club projects. The structure of GFWC and its state federations allows member clubs to address the emerging needs of individual communities and to respond quickly to calls for help.

Established in the early 1990s, Nike's Reuse-A-Shoe program collects old, worn-out athletic shoes for recycling, transforming them into Nike Grind, a material used in creating athletic and playground surfaces as well as select Nike products. Athletic shoes for recycling can be dropped off at the Nike Outlet Store in Ellenton. Nike has collected more than 24 million pairs – in other words, enough to create a chain of athletic shoes that goes all the way around the world more than five times. That’s a lot of kicks kept out of the landfill. Reusing old athletic shoes in sports surfaces also decreases the need for virgin rubber and other materials, decreasing the environmental impact of using new materials when building courts, tracks, fields and playgrounds. But the impact of Reuse-A-Shoe goes beyond keeping old kicks out of the trash. As one of Nike's longest-running environmental programs, Reuse-A-Shoe has been blazing the trail for sustainability and environmentally preferred business practices at Nike since 1990.

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Ultimate Dodgeball

2010-12-02T11:33:00.001-08:00

For all fo you dodgeball fanatics out there, there is now a center where you can play dodgeball in a trampoline arena in Tampa. Read below to get more details about this place:

Boing! Jump Canter

welcomes all ages, beginners to professional athletes to defy gravity on our Giant Trampoline Arena! Whether you want to enjoy open jump, play dodgeball (BOING! style), host a party or event, or get a crazy workout doing BOINGRobics, BOING! Jump Center is the place for you!

Located at 622-624 Ware Blvd, Tampa 33619, next to Brandon Crossroads Bowl

Phone: 813-341-4897

Email: info@boingjumpcenter.com

Click here to go to their website.

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White House: No drilling off Florida coast

2010-12-01T13:22:00.001-08:00

Here's is an interesting article for all Florida residents:

TALLAHASSEE (AP) - The Obama administration will maintain a long-standing oil drilling ban in the Gulf of Mexico off Florida after considering loosening it before the BP spill, a senior administration official told The Associated Press on Wednesday.

Just a month before the spill started in April, the Obama administration had announced plans to allow drilling in the eastern portion of the Gulf as part of the management plan for the Outer
Continental Shelf.

"In light of the BP spill, we've learned a lot and understand the need to elevate the safety and environmental standards," said the official, who spoke on condition of anonymity because the
decision hadn't been announced yet. "We took a second look at the announced plan and modified it to remove the Eastern Gulf of Mexico from leasing consideration."

Interior Secretary Ken Salazar planned to discuss the decision Wednesday afternoon.

The eastern Gulf -- an area stretching from 125 to 300 miles off Florida's coast -- was singled out for protection by Congress in 2006 as part of a deal with Florida lawmakers that made available 8.3 million acres to oil and gas development in the east-central Gulf. Under that agreement, the protected region is to remain off limits to energy development until 2022.

But the administration had entertained the idea of expanded drilling, until the BP spill that spewed an estimated 172 million gallons of oil into the Gulf. In order to open more of the eastern Gulf to drilling, the administration would have to ask Congress to lift the drilling moratorium.

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Chocolate Magics Cookies

2010-11-30T13:16:00.001-08:00

Christmas time is finally here! Here is a great cookie recipe for this holiday season:

CHOCOLATE MAGICS

makes 2 dozen

1 ½ cups all-purpose flour

½ cup unsweetened cocoa

½ teaspoon baking soda

¼ teaspoon salt

½ cup sugar (plus extra for dredging)

½ cup light brown sugar, packed

½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature

¼ cup smooth peanut butter

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 large egg

Filling:

1/2 cup peanut butter, crunchy or smooth

1/2 cup confectioners' sugar

Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Lightly grease two baking sheets (or line with parchment paper).

In a medium-size bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. In another medium-size bowl, beat together the sugars, butter and peanut butter until light and fluffy. Add the vanilla and egg, beating to combine, then stir in dry ingredients, blending well.

Click here to view the rest of the instructions.

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FCTB Takes Part in Great American Teach In

2010-11-29T13:22:00.001-08:00

FC Tampa Bay and some of its players took part in the 2010 Great American Teach In on Thursday, November 18, at four schools around the Bay area. Jeremy Christie, Julian Valentin, Pascal Millien and Chad Burt were among thousands on Thursday who visited schools in Hillsborough County.   The Great American Teach In invites people from all different career backgrounds to the schools to talk with the students on the different careers available to them in the future.
The FC Tampa Bay players spoke with students ranging from 1st grade to 5th grade about what it took to get to the level they have reached and how important dedication and exercise was to that process.    Jeremy Christie spoke at Westshore Elementary School with many groups, which included 1st, 4th and 5th graders who asked question after question about soccer and playing the sport.   “What did you have to do to be a soccer player,” asked a 1st grader, who had many questions written down in her notebook, to Christie. “A lot of hard work and practice on the field. It’s not something that happens overnight – I’ve been working on this since I was 14 years old. That’s more than 12 years of practice,” Christie replied to an in awe student who watched as he juggled a soccer ball while answering her.   Julian Valentin, who visited Westchase Elementary School, and Chad Burt, who visited Alafia Elementary, talked about the motivation and dedication it takes to become any kind of professional athlete and how important school plays into accomplishing your dreams.
“I really enjoyed the Great American Teach In. It’s great to interact with the kids and spend time playing a little soccer with them. I tried to impart to them how to achieve a life of balance, the importance of hard work and good grades, and why I have the best job in the world,” said Valentin.
The students at Deer Park Elementary were visited by Pascal Millien, who shared his story about Haiti and the obstacles he has overcome to be where he is today.    “It was a pleasure to visit with the students. I feel blessed to have talked to the kids and had so much fun doing it,” said Millien. “I was impressed that most of the kids knew about the struggle of Haiti. That’s when I realized those kids are special and they know about the world around them. They just need our help to make it far in their future.”  FC Tampa Bay would like to thank the students and teachers at Westshore Elementary, Westchase Elementary, Deer Park Elementary and Alafia Elementary for letting FC Tampa Bay and the players speak with them and wish them luck in the rest of the school year.

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Hudson church still serving the hungry after devastating fire

2010-11-23T13:39:00.001-08:00

Here's is a thankful news story around the Tampa Bay area:

HUDSON - Bev Milashouskas scooped corn from tin trays and sang quietly under her breath as she helped serve a traditional Thanksgiving meal Sunday.

"Every promise in the Book is mine," she sang, standing on the concrete slab where Lakeview Baptist Church stood before it burned in August. "Every chapter, every verse, every line."

Despite the challenges this congregation faces, that optimistic spirit showed through the smiles of the dozens of church members serving dinner to those who need it most in this rural part of west Pasco County.

The church has continued offering help, even though it has no roof and no walls. The 40 or so people who worship together here every week meet under a white canvas tent, sitting in donated pews and chairs.

"We still haven't gotten electric or a building or water," said Pastor Harry Buckwalter. "But we didn't want to cancel because so many people depend on this meal and this time together."

Lakeview Baptist has established itself not only as a house of worship but also as the place where needy families come for food every Thursday. The congregation calls it "Project Hope," a labor of love that hasn't stopped because of the Aug. 3 fire, which investigators believe may have been sparked by a power strip or the church's refrigerator, Buckwalter said.

Click here to read more.

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Best Buy Black Friday 2010 Ads: Line up early!

2010-11-22T13:10:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving is just around the corner and you know what that means..........Black Friday! People are already starting to line up at stores! Below is an article for Best Buy's Black Friday Ad:

Tampa Bay, Florida - Best Buy's Black Friday ad is encouraging people to start lining up two hours before the doors open at 5:00am the day after Thanksgiving.

The ad says "we'll pass out tickets up to two hours before 5:00am store opening." If you don't want to deal with the crowds the ad also says that you can shop Thanksgiving Day online at bestbuy.com for bonus deals.

So what are some of the featured sale items for Black Friday? You can save on some big ticket items like, an LG front loader washer and dryer set for 999.98. That's an advertisedsavings of $1,000. An Intel Pentium laptop will cost you 399.99 or you can upgrade with more memory and built in Blu-ray player, laptop bag and The Karate Kid Blu-ray disc for 499.99.

Click here to learn more:

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TERRY FATOR: VENTRILOQUISM IN CONCERT

2010-11-19T07:56:00.001-08:00

Remember the winner of America's Got Talent, Terry Fator. He won over America by his unique talent of ventriloquism. Now he is going to be preforming in Tampa Bay! Below is information on when, where and how to get tickets:

Progress Energy Center for the Arts - Mahaffey Theater

400 First Street
Saint Petersburg, FL

Map | http://www.orbitz.com/App/PerformDatelessHotelSearch?keywordPIB=Saint+Petersburg,FL&gcid=C11287x1027&WT.mc_id=o_ef_h&WT.mc_ev=click" title="Book hotels with Orbitz" class="click-offsite orbitz-test" target="_blank" style="color: #0066cc; text-decoration: none; font-size: 1em; cursor: pointer; padding: 0px; margin: 0px;">Book hotel

Tickets Prices: 49.50 to 69.50

Click here to get more info.

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Sweet Swingin' Baseball Camp

2010-11-18T08:55:00.001-08:00

Here is a great article for all of you baseball players out there:

By YVETTE C. HAMMETT | The Tampa Tribune

Published: November 17, 2010

BRANDON - Matt Joyce, one of thousands of kids who grew up playing baseball at North Brandon Little League, is returning to his old digs Dec. 4, this time as a big leaguer offering a hand to those who want to follow in his footsteps.

The Tampa Bay Rays outfielder, who graduated from Armwood High in Seffner, has teamed up with the Greater Brandon Community Foundation to hold the Sweet Swingin' Baseball Camp at North Brandon Little League.

He will be bringing an entourage of coaches and other pro players to teach ballplayers ages 9 to 15 the fundamentals of the game. He also will convey the importance of teamwork and the necessity of good grades.

"I definitely want to be a role model," Joyce said. "I think there are a lot of guys nowadays that kids look up to. I just want to be a big part of that. That's where you grew up, that's your home ground. You have to pay respect to it and take care of it."

Joyce said he never had a major league player come out to the Little League park and discuss what it takes to reach the pinnacle of the sport.

Joyce will lead the camp's coaching staff, along with other Rays players and coaches.

The camp, open to the first 100 kids who sign up, is $100 and runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. The cost includes lunch.

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The Polar Express Experience at SeaWorld Orlanda

2010-11-17T07:59:00.001-08:00

Here is an event for you and your family if you are looking to find something to do together:

November 12, 2010 - January 02, 2011
Address: 7007 SeaWorld Dr., Orlando, FL 32821
Times: SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration takes place Friday through Sunday nights, Nov. 26-Dec. 12, 2010 and nightly Dec. 17, 2010-Jan. 2, 2011.
Admission: See website
Venue: SeaWorld Orlando

The holidays are right around the corner and it’s time to jump aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience at SeaWorld Orlando, starting this Friday, November 12.

At Wild Arctic, guests can climb aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS Experience and take an unforgettable train ride to the North Pole. Classic scenes from THE POLAR EXPRESS movie are recreated in a multi-sensory experience that immerses passengers in special lighting, scents, sounds and motion effects. When guests arrive at the North Pole, they’ll discover a winter wonderland surrounded by holiday cheer and amazing animal encounters.

SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration
Starting November 26, experience the joys of the season with all-new holiday festivities, including The Sea of Trees and The Christmas Market.

The Sea of Trees
Guests will discover 74 massive trees, each sparkling, lighted and choreographed to classic holiday tunes, making a dramatic display around SeaWorld’s center lake.

The Christmas Market
Guests can shop for one-of-a-kind gifts and dine on scrumptious holiday delights.

Click here to get more info.

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"Real" Thanksgiving Story

2010-11-16T13:42:00.001-08:00

Here is an event for the kids to learn more about thanksgiving this year in Tampa:
Tampa Bay History Center
801 Old Water St., Tampa FL 33602
Kids spend their day unearthing a Timucuan kitchen mound and learning about the special meal shared between Spanish explorers and Florida's first people. This event is part of Discovery Days and open to children in grades 3-5. Early drop-off and extended pick-up available for an additional fee.

Price: $35 per child, $30 per child members.

Categories: Family, Holiday, Kid-friendly, Museums

Phone: (813) 675-8960

Click here to learn more.

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University of Tampa Fine Arts Faculty - Exhibits Recent Work

2010-11-15T12:59:00.001-08:00

Here is an upcoming event happening in Tampa Bay:

Red Georgia clay, 15th century religious icons and digital images are some of the raw materials that make up the art in the new Faculty Show at The University of Tampa. Members of the fine arts faculty will show their new work at an exhibition starting Friday, Oct. 22 and running through Nov. 23. An opening reception will take place on Friday, Oct. 22 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Scarfone/Hartley Gallery on campus. The show will feature more than 30 major works of photography, painting, sculpture, digital images, drawings, installations and mixed media.

Click here to learn more.

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Bucs notes: CB Mack still defying odds

2010-11-12T08:23:00.001-08:00

Here is your weekly dose of Tampa Bay Sports news:

TAMPA - Buccaneers CB Elbert Mack continues to defeat the odds.

Mack was barely recruited out of high school and attended Butler County Community College in Kansas. He later played for Troy and entered the NFL in 2008 as an undrafted free agent. The 5-foot-10, 175-pounder has been a solid backup and special teams player for Tampa Bay, but it appeared his luck would run out in 2010.

The Bucs drafted CB Myron Lewis in the third round, and with the preseason emergence of E.J. Biggers, Mack seemed like the odd man out.

As usual, Mack emerged to make the roster and plays on special teams and in dime packages. He hopes to make his presence known Sunday when Tampa Bay hosts Carolina.

"He's battled through injuries and he's just kind of that tough guy that you love on this football team," Bucs coach Raheem Morris said. "He comes out every day, he's businesslike in the walk-through, he's businesslike in the classrooms and he's businesslike on the field.

"He's the example of (our roster) being driven from the bottom up, and there is no better person in the room than I can give an example about than E-Mack."

Mack has three tackles as a defensive back and two on special teams.

Despite his limited participation this season, he is happy to have defeated the odds again.

"Sometimes I wake up and I don't even know how I've been doing it. I just know God has been pulling me through it," Mack said. "Sometimes you just have to be ready for whatever it is. You just got to take the blows and be ready to embark on whatever the journey is in life.

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November 2010 at the Florida Holocaust Museum

2010-11-11T07:35:00.001-08:00

St. Petersburg, FL (Nov. 4, 2010) – The Florida Holocaust Museum presents:

Trust in the Journey Becoming Family – Marie, Jeannette and Ruth

Marie and Jeannette, sisters from Antwerp, Belgium, were just nine and five years old when they began a life on the run from the Nazis in 1940. The young girls hid in France until caught by the Nazis and put into a deportation camp. With the help of the underground they were smuggled out of the camp and taken to a safe hiding place. Eventually they escaped, without their mother, across the mountains to Barcelona, Spain. In 1944 they journeyed to the United States and were placed in an orphanage until a foster home could be found for them in Rhode Island – becoming the state’s first refugee children from the Holocaust.

LOCATION: The Palladium Theater: Wed., Nov.10, 7 p.m. & Thurs., Nov. 11, 7 p.m. Cost to attend: $15 for FHM members, Palladium members, and students; $20 for others; tickets must be purchased at the Palladium Theater box office.

Pardoll Family Lecture Series

Daniel Jonah Goldhagen

Tues., Nov. 30, 2010, 6:30 p.m.

LOCATION: USF St. Petersburg
Campus Activities Center
140 Seventh Ave. S
St. Petersburg, Fl 33701
(727) 873-4596

Join acclaimed author Daniel Jonah Goldhagen as he discusses his newest book, Worse Than War: Genocide, Eliminationism, and the Ongoing Assault on Humanity, and challenges fundamental things we thought we knew about human beings, society, and politics.

“Genocide seems at once so familiar and so overwhelming that we don’t consider that if we change our thinking about the problem, then we can see the way to stopping the killing and do so relatively easily. . . . My work and my talk are devoted to making the phrase “never again” finally mean it for everyone.”

Daniel Jonah Goldhagen is the author of #1 international bestseller Hitler’s Willing Executioners: Ordinary Germans and the Holocaust. The book, available in fifteen languages, was named by TIME as one of the two best non-fiction books of 1996 and Goldhagen won Germany’s prestigious triennial Democracy Prize in 1997 as its author.

Goldhagen, born in 1959, received a B.A., M.A., and Ph.D. from Harvard University and was a professor in Harvard’s Government and Social Studies departments until he decided to devote himself full time to writing. He is a member of Harvard’s Minda de Gunzburg Center for European Studies and on the board of directors of Humanity in Action.

Free to FHM members and college students with valid student ID; $9 for guests; please RSVP: (727) 820-0100, ext. 236. Guest admission may be applied to FHM membership.

Women of Ravensbrück: Portraits of Courage

Artwork of Julia Terwilliger

Opening Sun., Nov. 14 through Tues., Feb. 15, 2011

This is an original Florida Holocaust Museum exhibition of memorial artwork by Julia Terwilliger. It tells the history of the Ravensbrück Concentration Camp, the Nazi’s major concentration camp for women that brought fear and terror to its imprisoned, tortured victims.

The art is coupled with text and seven, large wooden panels of mixed media and transfer images of Ravensbrück women, young and old, survivors and those who did not. The exhibition also includes rare original artifacts from the camp, including a handmade recipe book and gifts secretly exchanged by the women and 17 history panels and 14 biographical panels of individuals. In addition, the artist created a 10 foot memorial triangle and an artifacts installation created by the artist will be on view. An exhibition catalog for Women of Ravensbrück is available for purchase in the Museum Store.

Media Sponsors: Bright House Networks and the St. Petersburg Times

Curator’s Talk and Reception:
Thurs., Dec. 16, 2010; 6:30 p.m.

The evening includes a talk by guest lecturer Rochelle Saidel, the original Curator of Women in Ravensbrück and Director of Remember the Women Foundation. Free to FHM members; $9 for guests; please RSVP: (727) 820-0100, ext. 236. Guest admission may be applied to FHM membership.

Also on View:

Resistance and Rescue
Photography of Judy Ellis Glickman

Through Sun., Feb. 13, 2011

Through images and symbols, the horrors of the Holocaust are familiar to us all. Yet, too few of us are aware of the remarkable story of the flight of the Jews out of Denmark to safety in Sweden in the fall of 1943. This exhibition of photographs by Judy Ellis Glickman reopens a time in our history when the bravery of a few overcame the brutality of so many.

Media Sponsor: WUSF Public Media

Faith Under Fire: Jehovah’s Witnesses in the Holocaust

Through Sun., Jan. 2, 2011

Jehovah’s Witnesses, a Christian community of 35,000 in Germany and occupied lands, refused to conform to the Nazi ideology of hate. They suffered severely for their belief in nonviolence and their utter rejection of racism. Thrown into Nazi camps, they became eyewitnesses of Nazi genocide. As historian John Toland wrote, this is a story of human courage that must be heard.

A gallery guide for Faith Under Fire is included with Museum admission.

Save the Date:

To Life: Music of Hope
Thurs. Feb. 17, 2011

The Florida Holocaust Museum will present Violins of Hope as the major component of the Museum’s annual benefit, To Life: Music of Hope, on Thurs., Feb, 17, 2011; 6 p.m., at the Progress Energy Center for the Arts – The Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. To Life: Music of Hope includes cocktails, Dinner-by-the-Bite, desserts and coffee. Also planned are a silent auction offering luxury travel packages, dining opportunities, upscale merchandise and services, and a chance drawing.

Following dinner, attendees will be seated in the auditorium to hear the Violins of Hope, a concert played on Holocaust era violins rescued and lovingly restored. Musical performers will include members of the Florida Orchestra. Also planned are a special tribute to Edie Loebenberg (of blessed memory) and presentation of the Loebenberg Humanitarian Award to Dr. Herbert and Isabel Savel, FHM patrons.

Proceeds from To Life: Music of Hope will benefit education, exhibitions and public programming at the Florida Holocaust Museum. The cost to attend the event is $150 per person. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Please call Dan Berman, (727) 820-0100, ext 242, for information.

Images from all the exhibitions are available. Please send your request to:jsherman@flholocaustmuseum.org.

Admission to the Florida Holocaust Museum (FHM) is $14 for adults; discounted admission is offered to seniors, students, adult and student groups and AAA members.

Admission is free to active duty Military, FHM members and children 6 and under. Museum hours are 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Mon. through Sun.; the last admission is 3:30 pm.

NEW HOURS: Through May 31, 2011, the FHM will be open Thurs. evenings until 8 p.m.; the last admission is 7 p.m. Please call (727) 820-0100, or visit the Museum’s web-site, www.flholocaustmuseum.org, for directions and further details including holiday closures.

The Florida Holocaust Museum honors the memory of millions of innocent men, women and children who suffered or died in the Holocaust. The Museum is dedicated to teaching members of all races and cultures to recognize the inherent worth and dignity of human life in order to prevent future genocides.

Please follow the Florida Holocaust Museum on Facebook and Twitter.

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Seminole Heights Community Gardens Get a Hand From New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club

2010-11-10T11:36:00.001-08:00

GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club presents check to Seminole Heights Community Gardens

Tampa, FL (10/16/2010) – With the fate of community gardens in the hands of the Tampa City Council, members of the Seminole Heights Community Gardens have been living in fear. However, they now have new hope after receiving a check in the amount of five hundred dollars from the GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club in honor of World Food Day.

World Food Day is a worldwide event designed to increase awareness, understanding and to instigate year-round action to alleviate hunger. It is observed October 16th in recognition of the founding of the UN Food and Agriculture Organization in 1945.
General Federation of Woman’s Clubs (GFWC) New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club is the first honorary sponsor. “It is our hope that other woman’s clubs will follow in our footsteps and support the gardens sustainability efforts,” Patricia Murphy Conservation Community Project Coordinator said. “My grandmother in-law ran a successful nursery and maintained a half acre personal garden in Colorado until her death at age 92. Her commitment to local growers is part of what inspires me to support Seminole Heights in their efforts to grow organic fruits and vegetables.” Scott and Patricia Murphy also pledged to provide wigwams for the bean and pea crops, increasing the total donation to seven hundred and fifty dollars.

GFWC’s experience with community gardens has taught that they provide a catalyst for neighborhood and community development, stimulate social interaction, beautify neighborhoods, produce nutritious food, reduce family food budgets, conserve resources, create opportunities for recreation, exercise, therapy and education and provide opportunities for intergenerational and cross-cultural connections.

According to a statement on their website, www.GFWC.org, “GFWC has historically spearheaded unique programs that have enhanced and benefited youth and adults in communities around the world. We will continue this work by increasing the awareness of conservation issues among our members and our communities as we work together in a collaborative effort with other community organizations.”

“It is with this in mind that the membership of the New Tampa Junior Woman’s club supports the Seminole Heights Community Gardens projects and will advocate on its behalf,” said Murphy.

Contact info:
Contact: Patricia Murphy
Phone: 813-991-6152
Email: Conservation@gfwcnewtampajuniors.org

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GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club Kicks Off “Make A Difference” Week With Veterans Hospital

2010-11-09T07:59:00.001-08:00

GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club Kicks Off “Make A Difference” Week With Veterans Hospital

GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club provides veterans with 350 magazines

Tampa, FL (10/17/2010) – Monday kicks off a week of activities at James A Haley Veterans Hospital in celebration of “Make a Difference Day.” To start it all off the GFWC New Tampa Junior Woman’s Club donated 350 magazines for volunteers to distribute to wounded veterans staying at the hospital.

The magazines were collected at the clubs general meeting as part of the conservation committee’s efforts to reduce, reuse, recycle. “This is just one of many initiatives the membership is making to assist veterans” said Patricia Murphy Conservation Community Project Coordinator, “we have several activities planned throughout the year which will benefit Fisher House and veterans”

“The response has been amazing. I receive at least 100 magazines at each general club meeting for distribution to the hospital. I couldn’t ask for a better group of women to work with,” said Murphy.
Make A Difference Day is held the fourth Saturday in October and is a national day of doing good and helping others, sponsored by USA Weekend magazine. The James A Haley Veteran’s Hospital “Make A Difference Day” project has been named “Homeward Bound to Those Who Served”. There are approximately 47 veterans in foster homes in the Tampa area. They have opted to live in these foster homes (which are visited regularly to ensure that specific standards are met) rather than in nursing homes. They have very limited funds after paying for their stay in the foster home. Voluntary Service and Social Work Service work together to collect a wish list for each of the patients. With the help of volunteers sharing their time and resources, gifts will be assembled for personal delivery to each of the foster home patients.

Caption Information: From Left to Right

DSC02675 Patricia Murphy

Contact info:
Contact: Patricia Murphy
Phone: 813-991-6152
Email: Conservation@gfwcnewtampajuniors.org

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Bears in tree delight, dismay neighbors

2010-11-03T07:58:00.001-07:00

There's always something happening in Florida. Either it be concerts, games or in this case finding 4 bears up in a pine tree. Below is the news article and video link of Florida residents waking up to 4 bears in a tree just relaxing:

A mother bear and three cubs found themselves up a pine tree in Florida, bringing out the neighbors to gawk and worry. (Nov. 2)

Click here to see the video of these curious bears.

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Jingle Jangle Jazz at Ruth Eckerd Hall

2010-11-02T13:07:00.001-07:00

Here is a concert coming up in Tampa on November 6th:

The largest charity event for abused, neglected and at-risk children in the Tampa Bay area, Jingle Jangle Jazz promises to be this season’s coolest with proceeds benefitting over 11,000 kids served by Eckerd Youth Alternatives. Enjoy gourmet tastings from Tampa Bay’s hottest restaurants, cool sounds from internationally-acclaimed jazz musician Kym Purling, and a magical winter wonderland complete with snow flurries!

Meet Reality TV Star, Celebrity Chef and Eckerd Alum Robert Hesse of the Hell’s Kitchen TV Show who will be returning as our event host. Don’t miss exciting silent auction items featuring autographed celebrity memorabilia from the Rolling Stones, Beatles, Harry Potter cast, U2, Johnny Depp and more! Exciting travel packages also up for bid include a trip to the Grammys and after-party; New Orleans jazz and fine dining getaway; and San Diego yacht adventure on board the “Stars and Stripes” - Dennis Connor’s famous America’s Cup vessel!

Click here to read more.

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Dentist buys candy back

2010-11-01T13:46:00.001-07:00

Here is a great article for people who have extra candy they don't want in Tampa:

TAMPA - If you have too much Halloween candy lying around, a Tampa dentist is ready to take it off your hands.

Dr. Mark Goodnight is taking a stand against sweets with a candy buyback.

He's shelling out a dollar per pound of candy to fight tooth decay, and to provide a treat to our troops serving overseas.

The candy must be un-opened.

Dr. Goodnight will be buying candy until Thursday, from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at two locations: 3223 South Dale Mabry Ave and at 6538 Gunn Highway.

He then plans to ship the candy to Operation Gratitude, an organization that sends care packages to troops overseas.

Click here to view more.

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Happy Halloween

2010-10-29T12:44:00.001-07:00

Two more days till the Halloween of 2010. Remember to all of your supplies for this year's spooky Holiday. For all of the trick-or-treaters, make sure you have everything you need for your candy gathering experience:

- candy buckets, pillow bags or any other candy holding satchel and

- A spooky costume

Have a very spooky and happy Halloween Tampa Bay.

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New Nerf Game : Humans vs. Zombies

2010-10-28T09:26:00.001-07:00

A new game has taken over many college campuses around the USA and several other countries. This game is called Humans vs. Zombies. The game is that there is a group of humans armed with toy nerf guns who try to complete objectives or survive till the last man standing. It is the zombies job to not let this happen by turning the humans into zombies. They do this by just tagging the humans. Even campuses in florida are doing it!

Click here to view more about this game see the official Humans vs. Zombies website.

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Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens $20 Tickets

2010-10-27T11:58:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone! This Thursday only, you and up to 3 friends can get tickets for Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens for only $20! Here is the website where you can buy them:

http://tampa.howl-o-scream.com/#/buy-tickets/florida-residents/

It's only for Thursday the 28th, which is tomorrow! So hurry up and get yours.

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New Spaceport in New Mexico

2010-10-26T13:25:00.001-07:00

Every wanted to buy a ticket to go to space? Well soon you will be able too. Virgin Airways now have a spaceport in New Mexico where they will begin to develop their runway and terminal. Here is the website to check out more info about it:

http://spaceport.zianet.com/

The next step now is Papa Johns in space.

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Ice Skating in Tampa Bay

2010-10-25T13:19:00.001-07:00

Everyone knows that Florida is a get away for many to escape the cold. But for those of you who live in the Tampa Bay area and want to experience a little bit of Winter, then why not go ice skating. Here is a website where you can find places to go ice skating at this holiday season:

http://www.funleaguegroup.com/

Have a spooky, thankful and merry holiday season.

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Roll out the barrels, it's Oktoberfest again

2010-10-22T09:16:00.001-07:00

Oktoberfest is here again in Tampa:

TAMPA - It's time to break out the strudel, sausages, sauerkraut and steins for Oktoberfest, that annual German-inspired celebration of beer brewing.

And throughout the Tampa Bay area, people will mark the 200th anniversary of this German tradition with song, dance, food and drink.

• The former Tampa Armature Works, 1910 North Ola Ave., is the location for Oktoberfest Tampa 2010, which runs Oct. 15-17. Converted to a Bavarian-themed building, the Works will host singing, dancing and, of course, drinking.

The inaugural keg of Warsteiner will be tapped at 4 p.m. Oct. 15. Food will be served by South Tampa's Datz Deli. Activities include barrel tossing, a Mr. and Miss Oktoberfest and a beer stein relay.

Click here to read more.

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Exclusive poll: Schools are making the grade

2010-10-21T07:15:00.001-07:00

Here is some local news about our school system:

By Dalia Dangerfield , Reporter
Last Updated: Thursday, October 21, 2010

TAMPA --

Bay area parents are overwhelmingly pleased with the quality of their children's schools and the education they are receiving.

Those are the findings of a St. Petersburg Times/Bay News 9 exclusive poll that asked parents with children in Bay area schools about major education issues, including homework, the quality of schools, the FCAT, technology and advanced placement courses.

Despite all the talk about school budgets, class size issues, standardized tests and early release days, 90 percent of Bay area parents call their kid's schools good or excellent.

And the happiest seem to be in Hillsborough County.

"If I were giving a grade this is my third child that's come through so I'd have to give it an A+,'' said Elizabeth Kieffer, a parent at Coleman Middle School in Tampa.

Fifty-six percent of parents in Hillsborough County rated their kids' schools as excellent - 37 percent said good and three percent called their child's schools fair. Only four percent said their child's school was poor.

Pinellas parents also are pleased with the public school system. They rated their schools like this:

Excellent - 52 percent

Good - 37 percent

Fair - 7 percent

Poor - 2 percent

Meanwhile, parents in Pasco and Hernando counties also gave their schools a high approval rating.

The poll also collected parent response on topics like homework, the FCAT, technology and advance placement.See the full results here.

Click here to view more.

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Next Big Thing 10

2010-10-20T12:21:00.001-07:00

It's heres again, the Next Big Thing 10 is going to be at the 1-800-ask-gary amphitheatre. Read below to get more info about it:

Ticket Prices:

VIP - $250/pair
300 Level - $35 - $40
200 Level - $55
100 Level - $65
Pit - $65
floridacentral Credit Union Lawn - $30

(Plus all applicable sales tax and service charges)

December fifth | 1-800-ask-gary Amphitheatre | Gates 10 am

Click here to learn more and get your tickets.

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Howl-O-Scream at Busch Gardens

2010-10-19T11:29:00.001-07:00

It's back again, Howl-O-Scream is now at Busch Gardens. Read below to get more info and how to buy your tickets for this event in Tampa:

Busch Gardens Tampa Bay officially kicks off it’s 11th season of gutwrenching scares with MORE haunted houses than ever before, ALL-NEW scare zones, Alone – a revolutionary idea in how guests experience haunted attractions – and a live concert each night of the event by the rock stars of horror – Sylvie and her killer band, My X.

For select nights through October 31st, Howl-O-Scream 2010 will rock your world with seductive surprises and scares. The devious creatures that infest more haunted houses than ever before, all-new scare zones, thrilling shows and even the streets themselves will have guests watching their backs, and bone-chilling roller coasters keep the screams coming all night long.

Howl-O-Scream is a separate ticketed event, and general admission is $74.95. Savings are available on advance ticket purchases at participating Publix Supermarkets and at MyXRocks.comm for Passport Members and Florida Residents. Discounts are also available with promotional codes from select Pepsi, Domino’s Pizza, Applebee’s, Smoothie King and Muvico theaters purchases statewide.

Click here to read more and get your tickets.

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Celebration of Courage

2010-10-18T11:49:00.001-07:00

Tickets are limited RSVP! Chance to socialize and network with Tampa Bay executive professionals from all industries. Register at www.tpafallenheroes.org

Celebration of Courage
Wed, Oct 20
DoubleTree Tampa Westshore, Tampa, FL, US

Tickets start at $35 and include food, entertainment and a tremendous networking opportunity. All proceeds are being donated to the memorial fund to help families in times like this in our community and also to Kelly Curtis (wife of slain Tampa Police Officer David Curtis) newly formed foundation…

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Clearwater Jazz Festival 2010 Performance Line Up

2010-10-15T07:41:00.001-07:00

It's here again! The 2010 Clearwater Jazz Festival is now here. If you are planning to go to it, here is the performance line up for the next couple of days:

Thursday, October 14th

4:30pm                   Gates Open
5:00pm - 6:00pm     Jarred Armstrong
6:30pm - 8:00pm     Little Feat
8:30pm - 10:00pm   Johnson, Pope, Bokor, Ruppel & Burns, LLP
                              welcomes Dr John & The Lower 911

Friday, October 15th

4:00pm                    Gates Open
5:00pm - 6:30pm      The Organic Trio
7:00pm - 8:30pm      Kyle Wolverton
9:00pm - 11:00pm    Solace Insurance welcomes Norman Brown's
                               Storming Jazz with Brenda Russell & Jessy J

Saturday, October 16th

2:00pm                     Gates Open
2:30pm - 4:00pm       O Som Do Jazz & Helios Jazz Orchestra
4:30pm - 5:30pm       Sean Chambers & Friends
6:00pm - 7:00pm       Level 10
7:30pm - 8:45pm       Tizer featuring Lao Tizer, Chieli Minucci &
                                 Karen Briggs
9:15pm - 10:45pm     Crabby Bill's Seafood welcomes Soulive
10:45pm                    Fireworks presented by Homeowner's Choice Inc.

Sunday, October 17th

2:00pm                     Gates Open
2:30pm - 3:30pm       REH/CJH Youth Jazz Band w/ Eric Darius
4:00pm - 5:30pm       Mark Barrios
6:00pm - 7:30pm       Jonathan Fritzen
8:00pm - 10:00pm     Bright House Networks welcomes Eric Darius
                                 featuring Lalah Hathaway

To get more info about this event, you can go here.

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Clearwater astronaut ready for second flight

2010-10-14T10:42:00.001-07:00

Below is a recent article about a local astronaut going to space for the second time:

CAPE CANAVERAL - Clearwater's Nicole Stott is back in Florida, ready for her second trip to space.

The astronauts for space shuttle Discovery's STS-133 mission arrived at Kennedy Space Center yesterday for a launch dress rehearsal. Stott and her five crewmates will practice loading into the shuttle, run through simulated countdowns, and go over emergency launch day procedures.

Discovery is scheduled to launch for the last time on the afternoon of November 1. The mission will bring the last major American component to the International Space Station, along with plenty of supplies.

Click here to read more.

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers expect TV blackout Sunday — and more to come

2010-10-13T11:21:00.001-07:00

Here is the some most recent news on our Tampa Bay Bucs:

TAMPA — The Bucs are 3-1 and half a game out of first place in the NFC South heading into a division showdown with the Saints on Sunday at Raymond James Stadium.

But even that won't bring a sellout crowd.

A team spokesman confirmed Monday that the Bucs expect to fall short of a sellout against New Orleans and, most likely, for the five home games after that. That means local television blackouts are virtually certain the rest of the way. The club's previous two home games in the regular season and both preseason home contests were blacked out.

NFL broadcast rules require that games be sold out at least 72 hours before kickoff or the telecast cannot be shown within a 75-mile radius of the stadium.

It was thought that the Bucs' recent success, plus a matchup against the Super Bowl champion Saints, might spark ticket sales. But the Bucs' season-ticket base (believed to be 40,000 to 50,000) makes it difficult to sell enough individual tickets to sell out the 65,000-seat stadium.

To read more, click here.

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Big Brothers Big Sisters Honors Volunteer “Bigs” of the Year at Match Appreciation Event

2010-10-12T12:09:00.001-07:00

More than 350 “Bigs” & “Littles” Enjoyed a Rock Star Experience at Mahaffey Theater

Largo, FL (October 7, 2010)- Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County honored volunteers and children served with an annual Match Appreciation party at Mahaffey Theater. The evening’s program recognized volunteers and children served, volunteers of the year, and event sponsors. Attendees enjoyed a “Rock N Roll Star Experience” theme including limousines, red carpet, volunteer paparazzi and star themed activities.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas, Citrus, and Hernando Counties serves an average of 1,500 children a year. While each volunteer “Big” contributes something amazing to the program, the agency highlights a select few volunteers that have made a significant impact on their “Little”. Volunteers from both the Community Based Program and School Based Program were recognized by the agency. Community Based volunteers enjoy a one-to-one friendship with a child a few hours a month and enjoy activities in the community. School Based volunteers also enjoy a one-to-one friendship with a child but the place and time are usually set in a school setting.

“Positive relationships with caring adults can have a lasting impact on a child’s life,” said Susan Rolston, Chief Executive Officer. “We are overwhelmed by the dedication and support of our volunteers who are dedicated to making a lasting impact in the lives of children. It was especially nice to honor those volunteers who have made an astounding difference in the program.”

2010 “Bigs” of the Year:

Community Based Big Brother of the Year, George Root III, has been matched with his “Little” since 2007. As a former student at Stetson Law, George involved his “Little” in on-campus activities and volunteer recruitment for Big Brothers Big Sisters. George’s consistency and perseverance have truly made a long-term impact for his “Little” and has helped to guide him in decision making.

Community Based Big Sister of the Year, Jane Kucin, truly understands the potential of her “Little Sister”. Jane has consistently encouraged and praised her “Little” during times of self doubt. This encouragement has enhanced her school work, friendships, and home life.

School Based Big Brother of the Year, Mark Dawson, has been a consistent face for his “Little” for the past two years. Mark’s employer, Wachovia Bank, a Wells Fargo Company, is a Corporate, School Based Partner for the Big Brothers Big Sisters program. Once a week, during his lunch hour, Mark visits with his Little at a nearby school. Mark’s “Little” surprised him at the event and even had a special letter to read him.

School Based Big Sister of the Year, Jennifer Waggoner, has been known to go above and beyond to brighten the day of her “Little”. Jennifer arrives with her arms full of fun things to enjoy with her “Little” each week to enrich their match experience.

High School, School Based Big of the Year, Courtney Benter, a high school student, has been matched with her “Little Sister” for more than a year who attends Chi Chi Rodriguez Academy. The pair enjoy a variety of outdoor activities together, including golf. Courtney has taught her “Little” the importance of school performance and friendship.

Event sponsors include: The Gagnon Family Foundation, Outback Steakhouse, Progress Energy Center for the Arts-Mahaffey Theater, Ambassador Limousine and Sedan, Pepsi, and Best Buy.

About Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Pinellas, Hernando & Citrus Counties
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps vulnerable children beat the odds. The organization depends on donations to help recruit volunteers and reach more children. Funding is used to conduct background checks on volunteers to ensure child safety; and provide ongoing support for children, families and volunteers to build and sustain long-lasting relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters is proven to improve children’s odds for succeeding in school, behaving nonviolently, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and breaking negative cycles. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County serves Pinellas, Hernando, and Citrus Counties. For more information, visit www.bbbspc.org.

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Inaugural Halloween Costume Party to Benefit Tampa Bay History Center

2010-10-11T13:33:00.001-07:00

Tampa, FL (September 21, 2010) – Halloween with the kids? The Zoo has you covered. Halloween with 100,000 people? Try Guavaween. Halloween with history’s notorious gangsters, thieves and tyrants? The History Center is the place to be.

On Saturday, October 16th, the Tampa Bay History Center wants you to explore the dark side of history with HISTeria, a night of costumed revelry. A Halloween fundraiser in the heart of downtown Tampa, HISTeria will feature food from some of Tampa’s best local restaurants including SideBern’s, Fly Bar and Restaurant, AJA, Datz Deli, Ella’s Folk Café, Square One Burgers and the Columbia Cafe, among others.

Performance artists, psychics and a Tampa’s D.J. Blenda will transform the History Center into downtown Tampa’s premier Halloween destination. Don’t miss what will be Tampa’s must-attend Halloween event.

Plus, proceeds will benefit the History Center’s educational programs.

HISTeria will take place Saturday, October 16th from 8:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. Tickets are $35.00 prior to September 26th, $50.00 prior to October 16th and $60.00 on the day of the event. Tickets include one complimentary beverage and parking. A special $80.00 VIP package includes valet parking, an individual Tampa Bay History Center membership and two complimentary beverages.

Tampa Bay History Center is located at 801 Old Water Street in the Channelside District of downtown Tampa. Support for the event is provided by the Tampa Downtown Partnership, St. Petersburg Times, *tbt, Yuengling Brewery and Mama Razzi Foto.

Visit www.HISTeriaEvent.com for more information and to purchase advance tickets or call Visitor Services at (813) 228-0097 ext. 0.

About the Tampa Bay History Center
The Tampa Bay History Center includes three floors of permanent and temporary exhibition space focusing on 12,000 years of Florida history. The History Center also features a Museum Store, the Witt Research Center (a branch of the Hillsborough County Public Library System), a map gallery, an event hall and the Columbia Cafe. One of Tampa’s premier cultural venues, the History Center’s hands-on, kid-friendly activities, together with cutting-edge interactive exhibits and theaters provide a unique educational experience. For more information, visitwww.tampabayhistorycenter.org.

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Stone Temple Pilots Playing on October 8th

2010-10-07T12:18:00.001-07:00

Are you a Stone Temple Pilots fan? Well, they are playing right here in Tampa this friday, October 8th:

Since the moment they appeared on the scene in the early 90's, Stone Temple Pilots dominated the decade from start to finish, racking up 15 singles on the Billboard Top Ten, winning a "Best Hard Rock Performance" GRAMMY in 1994 for for "Plush," and having their five albums sell more than 35 million copies worldwide.

To read more about this band and buy your tickets, click here.

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Lowry Park ZooBoo

2010-10-06T07:34:00.001-07:00

Start making plans for this October. There are an abundant amount of events happening. One of them is Lowry Park's ZooBoo. Read below to get additional information and start your planning in Tampa:

Beware of this spookish zoo! Lowry Park Zoo offers this thrill for the younger ones! You'll find haunted houses and spooky trails that will leave you wanting more! With five new haunts this year, you'll be sure to find out what goes bump in the night!!!

Enjoy these great attractions at this year's ZooBoo:

Fright Theater 3D: Trapped in Time!

Shipwrecked! Terror of Doom Island

Sinister Shadows: Gothic Nightmare

Declassified: Project Alien

Pharaoh's Tomb of Revenge (NEW!)

Boogie Monster Bounce (NEW!)

Ghoulish Games (NEW!)

Little Beasties Bungalow

Free Rides

Click here to get more info and to get your tickets.

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Rays know time to win is now

2010-10-05T11:59:00.001-07:00

Here is you update on our Tampa Bay Rays:

ST. PETERSBURG -- Perception says the window of opportunity is closing for this collection of Tampa Bay Rays.

Principal owner Stuart Sternberg is a businessman, and he says the Rays have stretched their payroll to the limit. Thus, an adjustment needs to be made, which means there will be a payroll reduction in 2011. So the likelihood of favorites such as Carl Crawford, Carlos Pena and Rafael Soriano being back with the team seems unlikely.

The TBS coverage team of former Major Leaguers John Smoltz, Ron Darling and Cal Ripken offered their opinions on the subject.

Click here to read the rest of the article.

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GETSMART Tampa Bay

2010-10-04T11:59:00.001-07:00

Did you know that women comprise 46.5% of the total U.S. workforce? Yet, women remain underrepresented in computing-related careers: only 26.67% of computer specialists in the U.S. are women and women account for less than 10% of the newest undergraduates in the computing field.

Getting Everyone To Study Math and Related Technologies (GETSMART) is a partnership of the Information & Technology Management department at The University of Tampa and the Tampa Bay Technology Leadership Association (TBTLA).

GETSMART was established in 2008 and is in its third year offering a weekend program for middle and high school girls. The GETSMART’s mission is to assist young women in comprehending the value of math, science and Information Technology today and in their future. The program strives to increase the numbers of young women who select math, science and IT as further education or a career field by broadening their understanding of the importance of the discipline and the awareness that math, science and technology are interlaced into many career areas.

The next GETSMART event will take place on the University of Tampa campus on Saturday, November 6, 2010 from 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the John H. Sykes School of Business – Room 237. The event is free.

For further information or to sign up to attend, please contact Ms. Dale Hempel at (813) 220-5332, dalehempel@earthlink.net or Ms. Cindy Brown at (727) 796-0727×301, cindyb@prattbrown.com.

Let’s GETSMART!

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RUSH Time Machine Tour 2010

2010-10-01T11:25:00.001-07:00

For all of you Rush fans out there, Rush is playing tonight at the Ford Amphitheatre at Florida State Fairgrounds.

Click here to buy tickets online to go see them in concert. Tickets are $31 to $100 depending on what's available.

Hurry and buy now before it's to late!

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Rays foundation awards nonprofits

2010-09-30T08:56:00.001-07:00

ST. PETERSBURG -- There was a time when the Rays and their public relations team were working overtime in an effort to repair the broken ties with the community. Even then, big announcements were met with a smattering of reporters at best.

On Tuesday, the Batters' Eye Restaurant was teeming with media, well-wishers and award recipients, a testament as much to American League champion Tampa Bay's success this season as to the Rays Baseball Foundation's ongoing relationship with the community.

The foundation awarded a total of $150,000 to three local nonprofit organizations through the club's All-Star Grant during Tuesday's event.

Click here to read the rest of this article.

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Free Ray's Tickets!

2010-09-29T11:53:00.001-07:00

Rays fans, want to go see the Rays play Orioles for free. Well today is your lucky day. Read below and go see the Rays play tonight for free!

ST. PETERSBURG -- The Rays will make available 20,000 free tickets to tomorrow night's regular-season finale against the Baltimore Orioles at Tropicana Field. Game time is 7:10 p.m. ET. Tickets will be distributed at all gates beginning at 4:45 p.m.

Tickets will be distributed one per person on a first-come, first-served basis and will be given away upon entry to the ballpark. Tickets may not be picked up in advance. The complimentary tickets will be available in the Press Level, Baseline Box, Loge Box, Outfield, Upper Box and Upper Reserved sections.

Fans who have purchased tickets to tomorrow night's game in the aforementioned seating areas may exchange them at Guest Services for a Lower Box seat upon their arrival, based on availability.

Click here to go to the Ray's article for more info.

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Tampa Bay Band, WD-Han, Launches "Tunes for 10,000"

2010-09-28T11:34:00.001-07:00

WD-Han (stands for "We Don't Have A Name") is announcing a new Social Media game: "Tunes for 10,000". As soon as they hit 10,000 people who like their Facebook page they are giving away access to a free download to an all new acoustic album!

View the YouTube video with all the details from WD-Han here:

For free music, like their Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/wdhanmusic!

Don't forget to suggest this to all your friends!

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Middle School Students Donate $650 to Clearwater Marine Aquarium's Rescued Sea Turtles

2010-09-27T09:21:00.001-07:00

Middle school students do their part in helping our aquatic life:

Kids in “Friends for Florida” presented $650 toClearwater Marine Aquarium (CMA) to help take care of its rescued sea turtles. The group, made up of middle school studentsfrom Pasco and Hillsborough Counties, was started by friends who wanted to raise awareness about environmental issues. To raise the money, the kids held garage sales, lemonade stands, recycled aluminum cans and collected money outside of a local Wal-Mart.

The donated money will go toward medical supplies for sea turtles at CMA. CMA Sea Turtle Manager Danielle O’Neil said, “We truly appreciate selfless individuals such as these who help us take care of our sea turtles. We couldn’t do what we do without amazing community support like this.” “Friends for Florida” was founded in 2007 by the Mark family of Lutz. They have also raised $2,050 for Save Our Seabirds, Tampa Bay Watch and Big Cat Rescue. The group has also taken part in various clean-up and recycling efforts.

Clearwater Marine Aquarium is a Florida non-profit organization, dedicated to marine life rescue, rehabilitationand release, and environmental education. CMA is home to dolphins, sea turtles, river otters, stingrays, nurse sharks and more.

For more information on the Clearwater Marine Aquarium, visit www.seewinter.com.

Click here to read more on what's going on in our great city of Tampa Bay.

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Big Brothers Big Sisters to Host Annual Rock ‘N Roll Party for Volunteers and Children

2010-09-24T12:53:00.001-07:00

More than 350 “Bigs” & “Littles” to Enjoy a Rock Star Experience

Largo, FL (September 22, 2010)- Limousines, red carpet, volunteer paparazzi and star themed activities will all be a part of Big Brothers Big Sisters annual match appreciation event. The evening will honor volunteer mentors and others involved with the organization including volunteers of the year, children served through the program, and event sponsors. Attendees will be greeted by volunteer paparazzi as they exit limousines and parade down a red carpet. Once inside Mahaffey Theater the star experience will continue as guests will create their own Hollywood Star; dance to the hippest DJ; participate in other star themed activities; and enjoy food provided by Outback Steakhouse and Pepsi.

Because of the urgent need for volunteer mentors, this event will double as a recruitment opportunity for the organization. There are currently more than 200 children on the waiting list for a “Big Brother” or “Big Sister.” Attendees are encouraged to bring a guest that might consider volunteering as a “Big.” Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County matches an adult volunteer (a “Big”) with a youth (a “Little”) based on common interests, convenient location, and goals. The tri-county agency serves on average 1,500 children a year throughout Pinellas, Hernando, and Citrus Counties.

“Positive relationships with caring adults can have a lasting impact on a child’s life,” said Susan Rolston, Chief Executive Officer. “We are overwhelmed by the dedication and support of our volunteers. We hope to provide an evening that both the volunteer and child will remember for a lifetime.”

Event sponsors include: The Gagnon Family Foundation, Outback Steakhouse, Progress Energy Center for the Arts-Mahaffey Theater, Ambassador Limousine and Sedan, Pepsi, and Best Buy.

Rock N Roll Party “A Star Experience”

Big Brothers Big Sisters

Photo & Video Opportunities Available

Who: All Press Invited to Attend

Date: September 24, 2010

Time: 6:00-9:00 PM

Location: Mahaffey Theater, Downtown St. Petersburg

About Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Pinellas, Hernando & Citrus Counties

Big Brothers Big Sisters helps vulnerable children beat the odds. The organization depends on donations to help recruit volunteers and reach more children. Funding is used to conduct background checks on volunteers to ensure child safety; and provide ongoing support for children, families and volunteers to build and sustain long-lasting relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters is proven to improve children’s odds for succeeding in school, behaving nonviolently, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and breaking negative cycles. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County serves Pinellas, Hernando, and Citrus Counties. For more information, visit www.bbbspc.org.

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Daily Playoff Pitch: Giants the big winners; Tampa Bay has an advantage

2010-09-24T07:14:00.001-07:00

Here is more news about our #1 baseball team - the Tampa Bay Rays:

Tampa Bay positioned itself for a big finish. Look who has the best record in baseball (hint: They don't play in the AL East). If it's Friday -- actually, just about any day -- there must be a change atop the NL West.

Thursday's heroes

Another shutout for the Giants, their second in three nights at Chicago, but Juan Uribe made that a minor factor in the 13-0 victory that helped San Francisco jump over San Diego into the NL West lead, the fifth time those two teams have swapped spots in the past seven days. Uribe hit two homers, including a grand slam, and drove in six runs in a nine-run second inning. San Francisco's 19-hit outburst began against Ryan Dempster, who had a 14-inning shutout streak entering the game. The seven hits off Dempster in 15 batters were as many as he had allowed in the 14-inning streak. In their past nine games, the Giants have scored two or fewer runs six times. They have 10, nine and 13 in the other three games.

Carl Crawford's two-run single, his second hit of the inning, capped a seven-run sixth against CC Sabathia and Joba Chamberlain as the Rays beat the Yankees 8-3 to split the four-game series in New York. Tampa Bay is back within a half-game of the Yankees, who won the first two games of the series. B.J. Upton's two-run double greeted Chamberlain after Sabathia left trailing 4-3 and the bases loaded. The victory also gives the Rays the season series against New York, 10-8, which would decide the AL East if the two teams tie.

Click here to read more.

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21st Annual Hyde Park Village Art Fair

2010-09-23T07:21:00.001-07:00

There are a lot of up coming events as it gets into the fall season. Here is one that you may want to part take in:

One of the country's top art festivals, The 21st Annual Hyde Park Village Art Festival is coming to town! Located just outside Tampa, Hyde Park Village offers great shopping, fine dining and nightly entertainment. In October, the Village will welcome 150 exhibitors displaying a wide range of art's from life-size sculptures to photography to jewelry. Like all Howard Alan events, the 21st Annual Hyde Park Village Art Festival is a juried show, which means each participating artist is hand-selected from hundreds of applicants to ensure a first-class festival with only the highest quality, original artwork. All exhibiting artists are required to be at the festival the entire weekend. This gives you the unique opportunity to meet the creators of the art on display; commission a specific piece; ask questions about techniques; learn the sources of their inspirations; and purchase fine works of art at affordable prices. All of the work on display is available for purchase, and with prices ranging from $15 earrings to $50 prints to $20,000 sculptures, there is always something for everyone.

Click here to get more info.

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Josh Freeman's decisionmaking impresses Tampa Bay Buccaneers

2010-09-22T08:33:00.001-07:00

By Rick Stroud, Times Staff Writer
In Print: Tuesday, September 21, 2010

TAMPA — Josh Freeman deliberately bounced a worm killer at the feet of one receiver. A few other passes were aimed at his bench. Several times, he just tucked the ball under his arm, ran away from trouble and slid as if he were stealing second base.

The growth of the Bucs' young quarterback was more evident in the throws he didn't make in Sunday's 20-7 win at Carolina.

Freeman went 12-of-24 for 178 yards, two touchdowns and no interceptions. But it was his willingness to throw the ball away when plays broke down that had coaches buzzing Monday at One Buc Place.

"You're just amazed and so happy and proud of that kid and what he's been able to do and how far he's come on the plays he didn't make," coach Raheem Morris said. "The bad snap in the air and he throws it out of bounds. It's the screen that the Carolina Panthers did a great job of covering up and he throws it at (the receiver's) feet. He's able to get some balls off when a guy is grabbling at his receiver and he's able to get another play. He absolutely pulls a Derek Jeter and pulls a flop when he gets hit by the defender. I was upset. I thought he got hit harder, but he got hit and did a little bit of acting on it."

You can read the rest of the article here.

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WhitzEnd Kid Zone

2010-09-20T13:25:00.001-07:00

Recently featured in the Tampa Tribune and Fox13, Whitzend kidZone is a Town & Country-based, teacher-owned, students-inspired, drug-free , alcohol-free , smoke-free , bully-free and label-free preteen and teen hangout exclusively for ages 10-16, a demographic too old for Chucky Cheese and too young for everything else. Friday night is for ages 10-13 and Saturday night, 13-16.

As you enter the lighted alcove just past Nanny Jeans Children’s and Maternity Consignment shop, you can’t help but notice the handwritten white and blue words filling Whitzend’s two glass windows: coexist and be the change you want to see in the world. Enter the building and you are surrounded by bright white walls lined with current movie posters and colorful framed positive affirmations hung in a crooked fashion. Immediately, you sense there is something special about this place.
Though the 800sq ft space, donated by Nanny Jean, stayed empty through months of planning, Owner/Teacher Deb Kelley reached out online and was pleasantly surprised by the reception. Friends, family and parents of students, together with the Craigslist, Facebook and Freecycle community, have been unbelievably generous. Whitzend has over a dozen Angel Sponsors on its website who have donated everything from furniture to musical instruments, to the manpower and supplies needed to build the 8ft performance stage.

Whitzend is a self-described anti-fancy, old-fashioned living room-like hangout; a tree clubhouse without the tree. Whitzend has a seating area for kids to hang out, play board games and video gaming with an Xbox 360 and Wii, a computer area and Wi-Fi, a game area for foosball, mini arcade basketball, an 8 foot pool table which can be flipped to become an air hockey table, a photo area for green screen photo shoots, a stage with karaoke machine, keyboard, amp, microphones, electric and acoustic guitar (or the kids can bring their own musical instruments and play), and a monstrous oversized bean bag chair, an all 0.75 cent snack/soda vending machine, a hand-painted Twisted (Whitzend version of Twister) on the floor, and enough surround sound to shake the walls.

September 18th kicks off the 7pm grand opening followed by every Friday and Saturday night from 7pm-11pm. Registration is required and costs only $20 for 4 hours of SUPERVISED activities or what equals to $5 an hour. Most caregivers (for the younger set) charge more than that, money given for mall trips average $20 or more, and movie tickets before large popcorn/soda start at $6.50-$9.50 (add $3 for 3-D) depending on the age. Once a child is stamped and signed in with parent’s identification, he does not leave the premise until signed out by parent/guardian with identification.
Whitzend is proud to showcase preteen and teen DJs, singers and bands with their information on dedicated page on the Whitzend website. On Saturday’s Opening Night, our first student DJ ZJA is a 13 year IB student from Hillsborough High who has been spinning since age 7.

On Sunday, October 3, Whitzend is excited to host the TRUTH from 3-5pm for a specialFREE event for kids. The TRUTH, an all youth movement promoted through grassroots advocacy and a youth-driven advertising campaign about choosing not to smoke, has been on tour all summer, recently at Vans Warped Tour in St. Pete. They will making a special stop with the TRUTH truck and its awesome DJ in Tampa to visit Whitzend and play games and give away TRUTH gear to our fabulous kids! Join us on for some good, clean fun! Look for the big orange truck!

Other upcoming special events include an old-fashioned Halloween party on Friday, October 29 and a talent showcase, WhitzendIdolsGotTalent TBD, November. As part of the registration fee, pending interest, Whitzend will offer classes in graphic design, green screen digital photography, yoga, fun food art, and other creative arts instruction.
The mission statement of Whitzend reads “to provide a place where kids are encouraged to be themselves and have fun in a safe environment that promotes and inspires creativity in preteens/teens ages 10-16 through play, music, performance and socializing, free of bullying and labels.”

Mahatma Gandhi once said, “Be the change you want to see in this world.” We are the change. In here, you have friends you just haven’t met yet.

Learn more at www.whitzend.com or call 813.416.2068

High Hopes in High Heels

2010-09-14T12:27:00.001-07:00

High Hopes in High Heels, a local nonprofit organization made up of professional woman who want to make a difference in their community, hosted a “Back to School Carnival” for Kids Charity of Tampa Bay as our 3rd community project for 2010. The event took place on August 7, 2010 at A Kid’s Place in Brandon, Fla.

The event was from 10 a.m – 1 p.m., and the children varied in age from 1-8 years old and all resided on the property. High Hopes in High Heels set up several game stations around the outside play area including: bucket toss, can knock down, a bubble station, jump rope station, football toss and duck wars. There were prizes given to every child when they played the different games and smiling faces were all around. The highlights of the day were the bounce house, popcorn machine, and snow cone machine donated by TNC Moonwalk Rentals. High Hopes in High Heels also brought slip-n-slides for the kids to enjoy on what turned out to be a very hot day and donated the slip-n-rides to Kid’s Charity, so the kids could enjoy for summers to come. The children had a screaming-good time in the bounce house and didn’t want to come out for lunch.

HHinHH provided lunch and dessert for the house parents, staff, volunteers, and children to enjoy after a morning of fun.

Earlier in the month High Hopes in High Heels hosted a spa fundraiser at Pia Esthetics in South Tampa in order to raise the funds necessary to organize this event and also received donations from TNC Moonwalk.

This was an incredible event and planning for the 2011 Carnival has already started to make next year even bigger and better. High Hopes in High Heels is looking forward to forming a lasting relationship with Kids Charity of Tampa Bay and being a part of their future success!

About High Hopes in High Heels:
High Hopes in High Heels (HHinHH) is a nonprofit organization that is composed of professional women who want to make a difference in the local community. They meet regularly to discuss the needs of various nonprofit organizations/causes and plan different fundraisers/community projects to help as much as we can.

Their mission is to educate and inspire women to make a difference in the lives of their neighbors by spotlighting local charity organizations, providing opportunities to make informed giving decisions and to foster personal and professional development through networking opportunities.

HHinHH meets for different networking events, social outings, and has started to have nonprofit organizations reach out to their group when they are in need of volunteers for special events. The members also participate in walks for various causes to raise awareness about health issues.

High Hopes in High Heels is composed of over fifty members to date and continues to grow! Please see the website www.highhopesinhighheels.org for additional information and be sure to check out their Facebook fan page and blog for event photos and additional information.

Buccaneers Are 1-0 For The First Time Since 2005

2010-09-13T09:42:00.001-07:00

http://www.pjtampabay.com

Behind a defense that was nearly impenetrable in the second half and the first career receiving touchdowns by Mike Williams and Micheal Spurlock, the Buccaneers rallied for a 17-14 season-opening win over Cleveland.

Raheem Morris says he has two goals for his defense, and neither center around the NFL’s defensive yardage ranking. Those two goals: Score and get the ball back.

No, Ronde Barber didn’t quite get in the end zone for his 14th career touchdown on his 38th career interception in the second quarter, but he did indeed get the ball back. And that’s something the Tampa Bay Buccaneers did time and again in the second half to produce a 17-14 comeback win over the Cleveland Browns at Raymond James Stadium on Sunday.

Tampa Bay’s defense did not allow a single first down by the Browns for a game-time span of 24 minutes and six seconds in the second half, allowing QB Josh Freeman to produce the only points after the intermission on a 33-yard touchdown pass to WR Micheal Spurlock. Cleveland’s eight drives of the second half ended like this: fumble, three-and-out, three-and-out, three-and-out, three-and-out, interception, turnover on downs, end of game.

Read full article and see great clips on the Buccaneers official website: Rise Up! Defense Comes Alive in Win Over Browns

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Pinellas students make long-distance call to space station

2010-09-09T10:01:00.001-07:00

ST. PETERSBURG — Fifteen Pinellas County students made a really, really long distance call Thursday morning — to the space station.

The students, chosen from elementary, middle and high schools, asked astronauts questions for 20 minutes starting at about 11:40 a.m.

"Oh my gosh, it was mind-blowing, it really was,'' said Donisha Pate, 15, a 10th grader at St. Petersburg Collegiate High. "Not everyone gets this opportunity, this chance to be able to talk to someone in outer space.''

Donisha, who asked the astronauts about robotics, said it changed her outlook on astronauts because she realizes now how much research and exploration they are doing. "They're making history, which is mind-blowing,'' she said.

Charissa Lenis asked whether the astronauts could see the Gulf oil spill, and was told that they could before it was capped.

The students spent part of the morning at the Pinellas Science Center practicing the questions they plan to ask flight engineers Doug Wheelock, Tracy Caldwell Dyson and Shannon Walker from the International Space Station more than 200 miles above the earth.

The first question was asked by Sephie Cooper, a ninth grader at Shorecrest Prep who wants to the astronauts what they think is the most important accomplishments of the space shuttle program.

Cody Kronz, a seventh grader at Meadowlawn Middle, wants to ask whether an explosion can happen in space even though there's no oxygen. He said he thought of the question while watching the Military Channel and watching a lot of things blow up.

Earlier Thursday there were several science demonstrations for the students and talks by former space shuttle astronaut Bob Springer.

The event was free and open to the public, but those who couldn't make it to the Science Center could watchstreaming video on NASA's website.

Up to 400 students, educators and others are expected to witness the cosmic chat in the auditorium at the Science Center, 7701 22nd Ave. N in St. Petersburg.

Curtis Krueger, St. Petersburg Times Staff Writer

The World Putting League

2010-09-07T14:48:00.001-07:00

The World Putting League is the FIRST organized, competitive, and social putting league in the world, in which golfers and non-golfers alike can have fun, meet new people, and WIN weekly and session PRIZES!!!

Our members absolutely love playing, competing, and viewing their weekly scores online!

Golfers can improve their putting, which then, improves their golf score…all while having FUN at the same time!

This is a WONDERFUL activity for golfers, non-golfers, companies (company outings/team building), significant others, families, friends, etc. It's healthy and is a GREAT TIME!!

There are FREE weekly skins games and FABULOUS weekly PRIZES including: pro shop gift certificates, Golfsmith Cash Cards, WPL Travel Vouchers to amazing vacation properties, restaurant gift certificates, and so much more!

Each session we award an overall championship trophy, and give one vacation package to EACH of the top three overall winners to either The Turks and Caicos Islands in the Caribbean or Reynold's Plantation in Georgia!

All of this and more for only $10.00 for each WPL league play event!

For more information on The World Putting League, visit: www.WorldPuttingLeague.com !

Four Year Old Boy Comes To Great-Grandmother's Rescue

2010-08-31T09:15:00.001-07:00

ST. PETERSBURG — A 4-year-old's quick thinking may have saved his great-grandmother's life.

Devonte Dawson was home with 67-year-old Janie Leshore when she began having seizures and lost consciousness, according to Bay News 9.

Devonte called dialed 911 and stayed by her side as he talked with emergency dispatchers.

Leshore was hospitalized for three days and lost movement in her arm, but is expected to make a full recovery.

Devonte's mother, Aisha Beckwith, said she taught him how to call 911 when he was 3, Bay News 9 reports.

Police gave the boy a coloring book and toy police badge for staying cool under pressure.

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African American Fraternity Leaders Challenge 1,000 Members to Become Big Brothers

2010-08-30T19:14:00.001-07:00

Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi and Omega Psi Phi continue their commitment to youth through support of Big Brothers Big Sisters

Largo, FL, (August 25, 2010)- The nation’s three largest African American fraternities are asking their brothers to lead the movement to put boys on the path to success. The fraternities’ challenge to each of their brothers? Become a mentor with Big Brothers Big Sisters!

Leaders from Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi and Omega Psi Phi, which collaborated last year as national partners of Big Brothers Big Sisters, the country’s largest donor-supported volunteer mentoring network, sent letters to their fraternity members suggesting that now is the time for change. They outlined a 2010 goal for at least 1,000 fraternity men to become Big Brothers.

Engaging the African American community as a partner and recruiting male mentors is a priority for Big Brothers Big Sisters as children of color, specifically African American boys, disproportionately represent children waiting to be matched with mentors.

In a joint letter, distributed electronically to their fellow members, the three national fraternities made this call to action:

We have before us, a rare opportunity to demonstrate the unique power of our organizations to make change happen, for real. We are in fact the most significant gathering of Black male leadership available for service to the nation. We are in a meaningful and growing relationship with the best youth mentoring organization in history, Big Brothers Big Sisters.

As of March 16, 2010 there are 7,453 young Black boys who have stood up and stated they want a Big Brother. There are tens of thousands of active Alpha Phi Alpha, Kappa Alpha Psi and Omega Psi Phi men who are capable of answering the call of these vulnerable youth. Beyond the confines of our membership, we provide leadership in our churches, places of work and communities. Let us now call the entire community to action and once and for all explode the myth that all Black men are “missing in action” when it comes to being engaged where we worship, work and live.

Our 2010 goal is impactful and doable: A Minimum of 1,000 Fraternity Men Become Big Brothers. With a win for our community in 2010 we will set ourselves up to do more in 2011 and beyond.

The great news is that no one man has to step up for 1,000 boys. We are calling for one man to stand with one youth. As each man engages across our country, we will together bend the long arc of the moral universe toward justice. Our eventual goal is to find a mentor for every one of those nearly 7,500 kids who are waiting for the right kind of man to emulate. A man like you!

We are moving forward brothers. Men are becoming Big Brothers, now. Men are leading on Big Brothers Big Sisters boards, now. Men are building careers at Big Brothers Big Sisters, now. Men are contributing financially to Big Brothers Big Sisters, now. What are you going to do? You have to do something or we will not realize our collective vision if more men are not stepping up as mentors in focused one-to-one relationships. Gentlemen, the very future of the fraternal system as we currently know it is at risk of becoming irrelevant, if we stand by idly and do nothing.

We are the ones to love mankind, achieve and see it through. Brothers let us get this done. Start something big and be a Big Brother! Getting involved with this historic alliance compliments and does not replace our current programs. Go to MentoringBrothers.org to take action today.

In order to be men our boys must see men; Alpha, Kappa and Omega men!

Herman “Skip” Mason, Jr.
33rd General President
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.

Dwayne M. Murray, Esq.
31st Grand Polemarch
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.

Warren G. Lee, Jr.
38th Grand Basileus
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc

Big Brothers Big Sisters is proud to serve as a partner with these leading fraternities. Locally, Big Brothers Big Sisters is searching for volunteers from all walks of life to mentor a child. There are more than 1,000 boys in the Tampa Bay area alone hoping to be matched with a Big Brother. To find out more about Big Brothers Big Sisters in your community and how you can begin to impact the life of a child, visit www.bbbspc.org or call 727-518-8860

About Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Pinellas, Hernando & Citrus Counties
Big Brothers Big Sisters helps vulnerable children beat the odds. The organization depends on donations to help recruit volunteers and reach more children. Funding is used to conduct background checks on volunteers to ensure child safety; and provide ongoing support for children, families and volunteers to build and sustain long-lasting relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters is proven to improve children’s odds for succeeding in school, behaving nonviolently, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and breaking negative cycles. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County serves Pinellas, Hernando, and Citrus Counties. For more information, visit www.bbbspc.org.

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Sapphire Technologies - World's Leading Provider of Innovative IT Staffing Solutions

2010-08-20T09:28:00.001-07:00

Sapphire Technologies has always been a socially responsible company with passionate employees. We are given 1 paid day each year to volunteer (most recently we spend a day at the 2nd Harvest Food Bank in Tampa), there are charities the employees donate to every paycheck, and each office gets a certain amount of money each year to donate to the charity of their choice. Due to a loss of a close friend of one of our employees to cancer, we’ve recently made cash donations to send a child to camp with Hospice and to the Tug McGraw Foundation.

Is this enough? Not even close. The Tampa office decided to take their charity efforts a few steps further.

For the last 2 years the Tampa office has partnered with Metropolitan Ministries during the holiday season collecting and donating several hundred pounds of food. And monthly we choose a charity and each employee donates $5 in order to get a jeans day. Most recently we’ve donated to the slain officers families from Tampa. We usually donate to a local charity or something that has caught our attention in the news. One month one of our teammates decided to clear her conscience by having us donate to the Seabird Sanctuary after accidently hitting a feathered friend in her car.

Whether it’s time or money, the Tampa office of Sapphire Technologies has always tried to lend a hand and we plan on continuing to do so even as the economy gets better.

Sapphire Technologies is the world’s leading provider of innovative IT staffing solutions. Since 1984, Sapphire has helped connect top talent with top companies around the globe or around the corner. Our core competency is the placement of contract, contract- to-hire, and permanent IT and engineering professionals. As the 2nd largest IT staffing company in the world, Sapphire provides customized solutions for both public and private corporations.

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Pinellas County Volunteers Needed to Make a Big Difference with Big Brothers Big Sisters

2010-08-17T10:03:00.001-07:00

Largo, FL (August 13, 2010) – Who taught you to tie your first shoe? Who went to the first game you ever played in? Big Brothers Big Sisters is currently seeking volunteers to be a part of many “firsts” for children right here in Pinellas County. There are more than 200 children on the waiting list hoping for a Big Brother, Big Sister, or Big Couple. By investing just a few hours a month, volunteers can make a life changing impact on a child.

Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County is in dire need of mentors, especially male and minority mentors. There are more than 200 boys on the waiting list waiting to be matched with a positive role model. More than 74% percent of children waiting for a “Big” are boys, but only 34 out of every 100 inquiries to volunteer come from men. Now more than ever, Big Brothers Big Sisters needs male volunteers to step up and help kids.

Economic circumstances have created a greater need for more families to have professionally backed long-term mentoring support. Single-parent homes, neighborhoods with gangs and crime, poor role models and poverty can lead a child to despair, lack of self-worth and ultimately poor choices. In addition, there are an increasing number of children being raised by relative caregivers in Pinellas County. These caregivers are unexpectedly faced with the challenge of raising children with time and resource constraints. Fortunately there are people who are willing to step up and provide these children with a positive, caring role model.

Mentoring is one of the most rewarding, enjoyable and simple things a volunteer can do. For as little as one hour a week, volunteers can add joy to the life of a child, and ultimately, contribute greatly to his or her potential. Together, “Bigs” and “Littles” do simple, everyday activities, such as going to a sporting event, playing a game, going to a park, or watching movies.

Research shows that having the positive influence of a “Big” makes a real difference in the life of a child. “Littles” experience improvements in academic performance, behavior and relationships at home and elsewhere, according to independent studies. In Pinellas County, kids matched with a “Big Brother” or “Big Sister” are 96.5% less likely to become involved with the Department of Juvenile Justice. “Littles” have also demonstrated better success in school with a 96% promotion rate to the next grade level.
Since 1967, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County has been helping our communities’ most vulnerable children through the power of a relationship with a “Big Brother” or “Big Sister”, giving kids the support and care they need to make good choices. When a carefully screened adult volunteer is matched with a child at risk, the path to their future is repaved with hope.

You don’t have to change your life to change the life of a child.

Help Big Brothers Big Sisters change the lives of children and learn how you can make a difference by going to www.bbbspc.org or by calling 727-518-8860

---

About Big Brothers Big Sisters serving Pinellas, Hernando & Citrus Counties Big Brothers Big Sisters helps vulnerable children beat the odds. The organization depends on donations to help recruit volunteers and reach more children. Funding is used to conduct background checks on volunteers to ensure child safety; and provide ongoing support for children, families and volunteers to build and sustain long-lasting relationships. Big Brothers Big Sisters is proven to improve children’s odds for succeeding in school, behaving nonviolently, avoiding drugs and alcohol, and breaking negative cycles. Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pinellas County serves Pinellas, Hernando, and Citrus Counties. For more information, visit www.bbbspc.org

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Clam Bayou Undergoing One-Year, Seven-Stage Restoration

2010-08-16T09:29:00.001-07:00

GULFPORT

Plenty of trash can accumulate on 2,400 acres of urban land. That's the size of the watershed — almost 4 square miles — that flows into Clam Bayou. And, right now, most of its trash and pollutants flow practically unabated into the bayou, an estuary on Boca Ciega Bay that borders Gulfport and St. Petersburg.

Soda cans, plastic bottles and other pieces of trash that have washed down become lodged in the mangrove trees and other vegetation growing in the bayou. The trash flows through the estuary on moving water or deposits itself on the banks of retention ponds during low tide. It turns a place of beauty into a junkyard.

But all that is about to change.

A yearlong project is under way to restore the bayou and to treat the stormwater that runs into it.

Partners in the project, which began in May, include Gulfport and St. Petersburg, the Southwest Florida Water Management District and the Florida Surface Water Improvement and Management Program.

When it's done next May, 24 acres of coastal habitat will be restored and 20 acres of ponds will be built to help filter pollutants in stormwater runoff.

Brandt Henningsen, SWIM environmental scientist, and Janie Hagberg, SWIM engineer, recently checked out the progress at Clam Bayou.

They said the project is moving along on schedule.

The first of seven project areas has been completed. Spoil mounds on the northern end of the bayou have been leveled and non-native vegetation growing on them removed to improve water flow in the bayou. Spoil mounds are simply piles of dredged matter from past work on the bayou. Non-native vegetation — mostly Brazilian pepper trees — sprouts on them, hindering water flow.

These particular spoil mounds were made in the 1950s when all of Florida was digging mosquito ditches in an attempt to make paths that would entice fish to come and eat the mosquito larvae, Henningsen said. It seemed like a good idea at the time, he said, but it didn't work.

Work has moved to the second project site, where bulldozers and backhoes are enlarging and reconfiguring a retention pond on the north end of the bayou.

Hagberg, the project's engineer, explained that the pond had to be bigger and deeper to handle the water flowing into the bayou from the north and the east.

"The ponds will reduce floatable objects by 99 percent," Hagberg said. The outflow area of the ponds will be fashioned in such a way that trash gets hung up there to then be picked up by workers.

"You will immediately be able to notice the lack of trash. Water quality improvement takes a little time," Hagberg said.

To read more of Patty Ewald's article, click here.

http://www.pjtampabay.com

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School Supplies That Cost $10 or Less Are Tax-Exempt This Weekend.

2010-08-13T09:01:00.001-07:00

For the first time in two years, the tax-free holiday for school shopping is back.

The sales tax holiday kicks off Friday and lasts through the weekend.

Retailers said they expect the weekend to be the second busiest shopping event of the year. They have cut prices and stocked their shelves in anticipation of the tax holiday.

The tax holiday covers school supplies that cost less than $10 and clothes and shoes that cost less than $50. The items also have to be on the list of tax-exempt items issued by the state.

This is the first back-to-school tax holiday since 2007. However, families had a week to take advantage of tax-free shopping. This time, lawmakers shorted the break because of budget constraints. As a result, the tax holiday only lasts three days.

Even so, officials expect the tax holiday will save families about $26 million.

Sales Tax Holiday Info

List of taxable and tax-exempt items

Taken from Bay News 9 website.

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