tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-116033322011-11-09T04:24:20.908-05:00Finding Tampa's Treasures ! This is the Editorial Section for TAMPAGOLD.COM and SOHOTAMPA.COM. We not only welcome your comments, we encourage them.Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.comBlogger1231100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-51869659234825118072011-10-29T10:05:00.007-04:002011-10-29T10:31:25.531-04:00

Join Us for another Celebrate Tampa Bay !Where: That's Amore Italian Restaurant700 Harbour Post Place - Harbour IslandWhen: Tuesday, November 15, 20116 - 8 PM How Much: No cost to attend, however, please RSVP so we can be sure to provide you with the service you deserve and expect.RSVP HEREThis free to attend business / social networking event always has a cash bar, complimentary appetizers, and

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1388423519342765482011-09-16T15:07:00.007-04:002011-09-16T15:49:09.146-04:00

Join Us for Another Fun Celebrate Tampa Bay Event ! When: Tuesday, October 11 - 6 - 8 PMWhere: Miguel's Mexican Seafood & Grill 3035 W. Kennedy Blvd, TampaHow Much: No cost to attend, however, please RSVP so we can be sure to provide you with the service you deserve and expect.This free to attend business / social networking event always has a cash bar, complimentary appetizers, and some great

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-76649310328542708772011-08-24T09:20:00.008-04:002011-08-24T10:23:57.236-04:00

You and Your Guests are Invited to CELEBRATE TAMPA BAY ! When: Tuesday, September 13, 2011 - 6 - 8 PM Where: Sunday's Fine Dining in Ybor City 1919 E. 7th Avenue, Tampa Join us to see old friends and make plenty of new ones at our once a month business/social networking event. No cost to attend. Complimentary appetizers. Cash Bar. Please RSVP so we can be sure to provide you

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-41686851039202726132011-07-20T09:51:00.005-04:002011-07-20T10:24:58.126-04:00

You and Your Guests Are Invited toCELEBRATE TAMPA BAYWhere: Crabby Bill's Seafood on Rocky Point (located in the Best Western Bay Harbor Hotel)When: Tuesday, August 16th from 6- 8 PMSocial/Business Networking Event provided by theSouth Tampa Community NewsAs always, No Cost to Attend.Complimentary Appetizers, Cash BarVisit Crabby Bill's Website herePlease RSVP so we can provide you with the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-59801460743895119102011-06-28T10:57:00.004-04:002011-06-28T11:11:08.927-04:00

Join us for Celebrate Tampa Bay When: Tuesday, July 12, 6 - 8 PMWhere: The Anchor Bar on Davis Islands. 304 E. Davis Blvd.This free event is a great place to make new friends and get acquainted again with old ones.However, RSVP's are required to be sure we can provide you with the service you deserve and expect.Complimentary Appetizers are provided. RSVP here

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-56592162787970216862011-05-22T14:22:00.004-04:002011-05-22T18:06:33.021-04:00

Where: LeeRoy Selmon's4302 Boy Scout Road, TampaWhen: Tuesday, June 14th from 6- 8 PM.As always, No Cost to Attend.Business attire please.Complimentary Appetizers, Cash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay events !There is no cost to attend, however, due to the popularity of these events and the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-66496137808372755232011-04-19T10:33:00.003-04:002011-04-19T10:55:39.887-04:00

Where: 717 South in SOHO.When: Tuesday, May 10 from 6- 8 PMAs always, No Cost to Attend.Business attire please.Complimentary Appetizers Cash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay events !There is no cost to attend, however, due to the popularity of these events and the limitations of the venue, RSVPS

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-80479949753382955982011-03-20T16:09:00.006-04:002011-03-21T11:54:28.228-04:00

Our April 2011 Celebrate Tampa Bay Event will be held at one of Tampa's hottest locations !When: Tuesday, April 12th, 6 - 8 PMWhere: MacDintons Irish Pub405 S. Howard Avenue in SOHOAs always, No Cost to Attend. Business attire please.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-40774497392398879472011-02-09T09:37:00.003-05:002011-02-09T10:55:48.580-05:00

We will return to Ybor City this March with a Special Fat Tuesday Party Tuesday, March 8, 2011 from 6 - 8 PM.Two Adjacent Locations for this Big Event !Bernini of Ybor and the Green Iguana1702 E. Seventh Avenue.Creole BuffetSecond Line Band - Dixie Land Quartet$4 Southern Comfort Hurricanes$4 Southern Comfort Rough RidersFREE Event as always, but please RSVP so that we can provide you with the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-6422281564997878602011-01-18T12:04:00.004-05:002011-02-01T12:01:05.378-05:00

You and Your Guests are Invited to Celebrate Tampa Bay !When: Tuesday, February 8 , 6-8 PMWhere: Urban Cantina in downtown Tampa at 200 E. Madison Street.As always, No Cost to Attend. Business attire please.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay events !There is no cost to

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-8986842876767187892010-12-29T09:22:00.005-05:002010-12-29T09:41:07.663-05:00

You and Your Guests are invited to our First Celebrate Tampa Bay event for 2011When: Tuesday, Jan 11, 6-8 PM Where: Pelagia Trattoria in the Renaissance Hotel at International Plaza in TampaAs always, No Cost to Attend. Business attire please.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-59600755032504795592010-09-29T08:48:00.006-04:002010-09-29T09:40:37.214-04:00

The new Yard of Ale will be our October location for Celebrate Tampa Bay.When: Tuesday, October 12 6-8 PMWhere: Yard of Ale, 406 S. Howard Avenue, TampaAs always, No Cost to Attend.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay events !There is no cost to attend, however, due to the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-56763197539417032010-08-11T08:59:00.004-04:002010-08-11T10:15:36.103-04:00

Join us for another great Celebrate Tampa Bay !When: Tuesday, September 14th, 6 - 8 PM.Where: GrillSmith at 1108 S. Dale Mabry in Tampa.As always, No Cost to Attend.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay events !There is no cost to attend, however, due to the popularity of

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-47056078185096554132010-07-13T16:09:00.003-04:002010-07-13T16:18:31.427-04:00

When: Tuesday, August 10 from 6- 8 PMWhere: The Tampa Club at 201 E. Kennedy Blvd. Suite 4200, Downtown Tampa Get more information here.NO Cost to attend, Cash Bar, Complimentary Appetizers.RSVP and Tickets are Required. Get tickets here.PLEASE NOTE: The Tampa Club is an exclusive private membership club. Business attire is required. NO Jeans, Teeshirts, or shorts.

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-24864988912045039002010-06-21T10:47:00.009-04:002010-06-21T11:09:49.109-04:00

When: Tuesday, July 13 from 6- 8 PM Where: Thai Thani in the Channelside District.615 Channelside DrTampa, FL 33602Designated as one of the best Thai restaurants in the USA by Thai Government Voted excellent by Zagat survey Visit their website here.As always, No Cost to Attend.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-14390111027096958852010-05-13T10:48:00.005-04:002010-05-13T10:59:13.958-04:00

Our next event will be held at Mangrove's Restaurant and Lounge in SOHO.208 S. Howard Avenue in Tampa.Date: Tuesday, June 15Time: 6 - 8 PMAs always, No Cost to Attend.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay events !RSVP to bill@southtampatoday.comVisit Mangrove's website at

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-16317234073198609132010-05-06T14:11:00.006-04:002010-05-06T14:22:26.478-04:00

When: Wednesday, May 12, 2010 6 - 8 PMWhere: Spain Restaurant and Tomas Bar513 Tampa Street, DowntownAs always, No Cost to Attend.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay events !RSVP to bill@southtampatoday.comVisit Spain's Website here.See pictures from our previous

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-82882951626556407512010-03-25T11:05:00.006-04:002010-03-25T11:17:44.370-04:00

When: Wednesday, April 21, 2010 6 - 8 PMWhere: Byblos Cafe 2832 S. MacDill Ave, TampaAs always, No Cost to Attend.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarPlease RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new ones at Celebrate Tampa Bay events !RSVP to bill@southtampatoday.comVisit Byblos Cafe website hereSee pictures from our previous Celebrate Tampa

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-23008685954675379532010-02-17T08:54:00.005-05:002010-02-19T12:27:33.301-05:00

Our March event will be held at Oystercatchers at the Grand Hyatt on the Courtney Campbell Causeway.2900 Bayport Drive, Tampa, FL 33607Date: Tuesday, March 16Time: 6 - 8 PMAs always, No Cost to Attend.Complimentary AppetizersCash BarWe promise you a sunset view that will be incredible !BUT , please RSVP so we can provide you with the service you expect and deserve.See old friends and make new

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-88303573425968550282010-01-21T15:17:00.010-05:002010-01-21T16:35:27.127-05:00

Celebrate Tampa Bay on Mardi Gras Dau at one of Tampa's classiest and romantic locations - Bernini of Ybor at 1702 E. 7th Avenue in Ybor City.Tuesday, Feb. 16 from 6 - 8 PMWith innovative Italian cuisine, Bernini's has been called the "place to impress". But don't let that chase you away, Finalandia Martinis are available until 7 for only $2. In the heart of historic Ybor City lies a restaurant

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-44185052249946978542010-01-04T09:00:00.003-05:002010-01-04T09:07:35.871-05:00

Hot Tuna will be our location for January. This restaurant/club features a location immediately across from the St. Pete Times Forum. Plenty of Free Parking. Open for Lunch and Dinnner. Among the featured items are 100% Angus Steak Burgers and more. Our event is from 6 - 8 PM on Wednesday, Jan 13. Exact location is 490 Channelside Drive.As always, the event is free to attend and will feature

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-84887275337604133132009-11-29T13:47:00.002-05:002009-11-29T13:52:32.394-05:00

Chez Bryce on Davis Islands will be our December Celebrate Tampa Bay Location. Located at 238 E Davis Blvd # 102, this location features Las Brisas Bar, a large outdoor courtyard, and lots more.Our event will be held on Tuesday, December 8 from 6-8 PM.As always, the event is free to attend and will feature complimentary appetizers and a cash bar. Celebrate Tampa Bay provides you with the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-3325335837340353712009-10-24T09:34:00.004-04:002009-10-24T09:48:04.861-04:00

The former Whaley's Plaza in SOHO is now the home of Koto Japanese Steakhouse. Located at 533 S. Howard Avenue, this new restaurant features hibachi tables, sushi bar, and lots more.Our event will be held on Tuesday, November 10 from 6-8 PM.As always, the event is free to attend and will feature complimentary appetizers and a cash bar. Celebrate Tampa Bay provides you with the opportunity to see

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-31523249785960847302009-09-17T12:19:00.008-04:002009-10-08T10:06:38.945-04:00

Located in the Grand Hyatt Tampa Bay at the entrance to the Courtney Campbell Causeway with incredible views, Armani's Restaurant will be our hosts this month. Date: Tuesday, October 13, from 6- 8 PM. Of course, Celebrate Tampa Bay means NO cost to attend, complimentary appetizers, cash bar, and plenty of old friends to see and new friends to make. While the event is free, please be sure to RSVP

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-53681409786369035942009-08-20T11:23:00.001-04:002009-08-20T11:31:19.318-04:00

Our September Celebrate Tampa Bay will be held on Thursday, Sept 10 from 6 - 8 PM, at Pizzaiolo Bavaro at 514 Franklin Street in Downtown.Visit their website hereCelebrate Tampa Bay means NO cost to attend, complimentary appetizers, cash bar, and plenty of old friends to see and new friends to make. While the event is free, please be sure to RSVP so we are ready to give you the attention you

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-13471926030125061432009-07-30T11:59:00.008-04:002009-08-10T11:03:19.000-04:00

Our August Celebrate Tampa Bay will be held on Thursday, August 13 from 6 - 8 PM, at That's Amore on Harbour Island.Celebrate Tampa Bay means NO cost to attend, complimentary appetizers, cash bar, and plenty of old friends to see and new friends to make. While the event is free, please be sure to RSVP so we are ready to give you the attention you deserve.RSVP to bill@southtampatoday.comIt's also

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-11522996050066774652009-06-23T16:49:00.008-04:002009-07-30T12:05:54.034-04:00

Our July Celebrate Tampa Bay will be held at Gallaghers Steak House in Channelside. This high end location will host our event on Wednesday, July 8 from 6 - 8 PM. Of course, Celebrate Tampa Bay means NO cost to attend, complimentary appetizers, cash bar, and plenty of old friends to see and new friends to make. While the event is free, please be sure to RSVP so we are ready to give you the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-92177246510566629032009-06-11T10:01:00.003-04:002009-06-11T10:05:29.079-04:00

What a great turnout and great food at the Queen of Sheba last night. Everyone raved about the food. Thanks for coming and watch for our announcement for our next Celebrate Tampa Bay Event Soon ! See the pics here.

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-29837159068009351392009-06-05T08:15:00.006-04:002009-06-09T08:22:06.019-04:00

Join us for a FREE Event each month with Celebate Tampa Bay ! CelebrateTampaBay is an event organized by TampaGold.com and South Tampa's Davis Islands Community News and SOHOTampa.com. These FREE events invite you to make new friends, see old ones, and sample the atmosphere and menu of new venues and locations. The concept is simple: A Free Event, Complimentary Appetizers, and a Cash Bar. Come

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-25057819366674377302009-05-15T11:20:00.002-04:002009-05-15T11:21:13.994-04:00

OOPS, I made an error, you can find the TAMPA GHOST WATCHERS American Victory Link here.

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-50769114482184082962009-02-11T11:40:00.006-05:002009-02-11T12:07:29.111-05:00

We received this Press Release and felt it was worth sharing with our readers. Many businesses and individuals are having a tough time and this story is a very good one.Scan Design, the largest contemporary furniture chain in Florida, is celebrating its 40th anniversary in April. Reaching such a milestone in retail of any kind, but especially the furniture industry, is almost unheard of. Scan

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-72192634168806722922009-02-11T11:37:00.002-05:002009-02-11T11:40:18.777-05:00

Get all the pics and details here.

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-18455423698711855462009-02-04T10:00:00.001-05:002009-02-04T10:11:58.719-05:00

Ready or not, here it comes…Gasparilla 2009.For most of the Tampa Bay area, that word conjures thoughts of celebration, fun, and regional - if not national - recognition. But for those of us who live adjacent to the festivities, the word “Gasparilla” might just cause us to roll our eyes, shake our heads, and give us chills.You know the drill.Each winter, the city of Tampa holds a festival

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-66464545151719623762009-02-04T09:37:00.002-05:002009-02-04T10:00:08.763-05:00

Ok, the Super Bowl excitement is over.Like many of you, I attended many of the "Celebrity" parties. Tampa looked good, but as the parties got under full swing, no one seemed to mention the actual game. At one party within feet of me were some of the greatest sports heroes of all time - Wade Boggs, Bobby Bell, Garo Ypremian, Billy Kilmer and plenty more- when a Tampa resident asked me if I had

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-21108730181990482922009-01-21T11:23:00.003-05:002009-01-21T11:29:27.243-05:00

Help talk me down, why were tickets to the Presidential Inaguration Events at $150 while Super Bowl Party Tickets are $300 or more ? Is football more important than government ?Actual Game Tickets are over $1,000.As we spend millions on sports teams stadiums and more, don't we realize that "our" Tampa Bay Bucs are really a for profit corporation with most players just out of town mercenaries

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-39189415162667057672009-01-15T17:11:00.003-05:002009-01-16T11:37:48.169-05:00

HOPE EVERY ONE IS HAVING A GREAT NEW YEAR ! Our Next Meeting of the Tampa Ghost Watchers will be Sunday, Jan. 25, 6 PM at the offices of the Tampa Marketing Company. 1906 N. Armenia Ave. #207. Please call me if the door is locked at 813-770-3902 cell. We will have a conference call with one of the Gettysburg Ghost Investigators, and we will layout our schedule of meetings and events for 2009

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-66639257480405435402009-01-14T14:51:00.005-05:002009-01-14T15:04:20.114-05:00

This is really going to be a great museum. But it really wasnt quite ready today. The official opening is planned for Saturday, Jan 17 at 11 AM. Lots of music and more. The exhibits showcase the Seminole Wars, the Cigar Industry, the Port, and more. An Olds auto that was provided by Ferman Motors looks so new that you think it must be a replica. Several media theatres deliver first class

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-38151535908627532982009-01-07T10:12:00.003-05:002009-01-07T10:42:39.404-05:00

2008 was moving along ok until the Financial Markets really tanked. Admittedly there were plenty of local indicators that were not good. Florida is extremely dependent on tourism and construction/real estate. As gas prices kept going up and home values down, all related industries looked pretty bad. The usual promise of a Holiday Season boost seemed to be forgotten as the Presidential

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-83373846243275496372008-10-15T11:05:00.003-04:002008-10-23T09:48:37.587-04:00

Every day I am greeted with over 30 public relations announcements from everywhere. Today, Macy's told me about a Fashion Show at their Clearwater store. Some NY PR firm told about a new gum that has more caffeine than a cup of coffee. Three local non-profit groups have told me about their upcoming events.If you have been watching the transition in the content and appearance of the Tampa

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1154354110394873752006-07-31T09:36:00.000-04:002006-07-31T13:27:47.736-04:00

Today required a little more time to pack. You knew this was the last time to use your tent and sleeping gear, so putting it up for a long storage took a little longer. I had taken a small folding chair and it decided to break this morning. Perfect timing, at least it waited til the end of the trip. The heat was already in evidence as I started riding at about 620 AM. Coralville is a pretty

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com87tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1154352497226486882006-07-31T09:03:00.000-04:002006-07-31T13:23:07.246-04:00

Riding into Coralville was a difference experience than all of the rest of 2006 RAGBRAI. Yes it was hilly and the heat persisted,But it was the atmostphere that changed. It was a relatively short ride, only about 50 miles. The last stretch of about 2 miles was on a soon to be completed interstate approach that gave us plenty of room for travel with no vehicle traffic. No landscaping and one

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com77tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1154050046640653582006-07-27T21:14:00.000-04:002006-07-27T21:27:26.693-04:00

The ride today was near 80 miles and fortunately not so hilly. As I take pictures when I stop, that is usually in towns. So today I decided to take a few more to show you some of Iowa's countryside. Starting riding abou 6 AM so a few will have some nice mist still rising from fields. While it was a long day, it stayed overcast most of the day, keeping temperatures in the high 80's, maybe low

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1154048911047214382006-07-27T21:08:00.000-04:002006-07-27T21:13:04.090-04:00

Several phrases/words are uniqe to Iowa:RUMBLES - those are the cuts in the road that cause rumbles to your cars as you approach an intersection.KYBOS - from the name of a company that supplied portable toilets. Looking for a toilet ? Where are the kybos ?MAID RITE - or MAID RIGHT - or TAVERNS - these sandwiches are usually called sloppy joes in Florida.More bike team names: Team Bastards,

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1154048668649766362006-07-27T20:45:00.000-04:002006-07-27T21:07:52.296-04:00

In Newton Iowa, Lance Armstrong with the wife of Iowa Governor Vilsack at his side called for the end of cancer by declaring war on the disease that kills thousands. Speaking to almost 20,000 RAGBRAI bike riders and Newton residents, he received cheers from enthusiastic fans, but it was his serious tone about his personal war with cancer and as he said "we have 9/11's every three days" with the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153941440826795492006-07-26T15:11:00.000-04:002006-07-27T20:45:03.906-04:00

Just as I had entered Mitchellville, I heard a commotion behind me. Lance Armstrong and Matthew McConaghey were riding in with a large contingent of other riders. The streets were lined with well wishers from town and of course, from RAGBRAI. It happened so fast I was unprepared for a picture. Will have to do better later tonight. The excitement has been building for the day in

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153919764853537282006-07-26T09:09:00.000-04:002006-07-26T09:18:01.903-04:00

It started as a few rain drops when I arrived in Waukekee. About 15,000 were at a large outdoor beer and music venue when the rain started to pick up. The best band was just setting up - the Nadas - when it started to rain a little harder. Since I had a half mile walk back to the tent, i decided to head back. Good Thing !If you have ever heard Tampa/Zephyrhills called the Lightning capital of

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153875125485488202006-07-25T20:32:00.000-04:002006-07-25T20:52:05.503-04:00

Yesterday was such a bear of a day that it spilled over to today. The hills continued today until about noon and a head wind kicked in too. But as the day wore on the hills became more tame and gentle.A hundred or more riders gave up today due to yesterdays efforts. I moaned and groaned and thought I might too. But as the day wore on I got better. Of course, taking two naps on soft grass in

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153787534017227202006-07-24T20:32:00.000-04:002006-07-24T20:49:59.583-04:00

It has been a dy of struggle and of meeting people. Met a girl from Eastern Iowa. She had two words on the back of her legs: Blue Bush. I figured it must be a political commentary - wrong. She is with Team Whiner and it seems that on the first night she drank a few too many beers and then decided to paint her toenails blue. She spilled the entire bottle in her lap. You can figure out the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153774930966936742006-07-24T16:54:00.000-04:002006-07-24T20:30:45.343-04:00

It is about 4 here in Manning Iowa. I am running late on the day. The hills have been treacherous for us flat Florida riders plus we have had a significant headwine.. Think I pulled a groin muscle, but still have about 15 miles to go today, so will be bolting pretty quickly. Will try to upload pictures later tonight. but even Cell phones are spotty here. The ride has been highlighted today

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153694487190677022006-07-23T18:41:00.000-04:002006-07-23T18:50:55.983-04:00

After a serious street party, I headed back to camp to sleep for the ride. Good thing. About 4 I woke up to cold weathe.It was about 60 degrees and my light blanket was not enough. What a great thing. About 6 the sky started to lighten andsome other riders started to stir - of course John was one. I heard him say something to Gwen and Paul about how I was out beer drinking last night, but

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153612746764692792006-07-22T19:51:00.000-04:002006-07-23T18:41:05.083-04:00

SATURDAY NIGHT. After a four hour bus trip we arrived in Sergeant Bluff, just east of the Nebraska line. It looks like a town of about 5,000. All of the schools are now loaded with tents and bikes and riders. We met a nice couple, Gwen and Paul from Stuart, Iowa. He is a CAD engineer and she is a teacher.I probably forgot the exact years, but he has been on 26 Ragbrais and she 17. Not much

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153612228744645062006-07-22T19:43:00.000-04:002006-07-22T19:50:28.750-04:00

It is Saturday morning about 9 AM and there are now about 30 of us getting bikes and gear loaded for the week. More are due to arrive soon.My hotel is supposed to have WIFI, but I think they forgot to plug it in and no one seems to know much about it.Had hoped to have this online this morning, but Iowa is not exactly the tech capital of the US. Corn, hogs, insurance, nice people.The best thing

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153482882191600252006-07-21T07:39:00.000-04:002006-07-22T19:43:28.016-04:00

Well things never go quite as planned. After a frantic day getting ready to go that included new advertisers, new sponsors for a super new promotion in September, an appearance on Media Talk, a great discussion with my good friend Tommy Duncan with Sticks of Fire, a great chat with Wayne Garcia of the Weekly Planet, and some high powered vodka at Whiskey Park and 717 South, it all comes down to

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com17tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1153315508598337722006-07-19T09:22:00.000-04:002006-07-19T09:27:20.646-04:00

For 34 years, the Des Moines Register (Iowa's largest daily newspaper) has sponsored RAGBRAI (Registers Annual Great Bicycle Ride Across Iowa). Starting on the west side of the state and ending seven days later one the east side of Iowa, this almost 500 mile ride is not for the weak. Averaging about 70 miles a day is a good ride - but doing it seven days in a row is the real challenge. Over 10

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1150225791290496662006-06-13T14:54:00.000-04:002006-06-13T15:37:00.743-04:00

With the largest convention in Tampa's history coming to town from July 1 - July 7th, The International Shriners Convention, it provides us with a chance to ask some key questions about our city. Can we handle thousands of convention guests ? (That broad question has to be asked of roads, parking, hotels, restaurants, and more)Hillsborough County has the 9th largest school district in the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1149602338370942782006-06-06T09:47:00.000-04:002006-06-06T10:03:04.256-04:00

Conventions are great things. They bring new people to new locations which means new money being spent. Conventioneers are here to have fun. They have saved up funds to be able to spend at the convention. They are tolerant because they know it is a convention and lines and waits are the norm.Tampa will be the site of one of the largest conventions possible - the International Shriners

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com27tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1148483008970919672006-05-24T10:44:00.000-04:002006-05-24T11:21:21.776-04:00

In case you have missed the continual dance of the Tampa Arts community, you have missed quite a show.It started with Mayor Greco's vision of a building that was to be an art statement in itself - known as the Vinoly design. (After the designer that has a reputation for designing beautiful buildings, that tend to go way over budget) Unfortunately several things went wrong. The proposed cost to

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1146065027832532822006-04-26T11:03:00.000-04:002006-04-26T11:26:41.806-04:00

Several neighborhood associations have been raising the issue of jammed parking, mostly on Westland, where the narrow street raises the potential for an emergency service vehicle not being able to get through. These neighborhood groups have been getting louder and louder as the problems continue to worsen. The underlying problems come with a virtual non-existent transit system, the continued

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1145019491315174772006-04-14T08:34:00.000-04:002006-04-14T08:58:11.333-04:00

In a recent Associated Article I learned something I definitely did not know: Iraqi soldiers can leave their units virtually at will. The article further cited Iraqi officials as saying that if they did not have this policy they might get no volunteers.(unfortunately I cannot provide you with a link to the article, but if you go to www.associatedpress.com and enter the subject search of Iraq -

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com16tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1144763396673494202006-04-11T09:28:00.000-04:002006-04-11T09:57:49.380-04:00

Some in Tampa seem to think the Tampa immigration issue is really those SOK'ers that won't go North of Kennedy. The several thousand area residents - legal and illegal - that protested the proposed immigration laws made it clear that it is a lot more than a neighborhood issue - it is a citywide issue - a state wide issue - and a national issue.Admittedly the SOK'ers (South of Kennedy, for those

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1142814878500295452006-03-20T10:31:00.000-05:002006-03-20T15:52:06.076-05:00

Most of the Tampa city employees and elected officials are hardworking and dedicated at what they do. Recently the city was given a rough rap by the St. Pete Times concerning the high pay levels that many of the administration are receiving.At first glance it raises your attention, but Tampa has become a "high cost to live in" city. And if we paid our City administrators the national average

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1142868712306796192006-03-20T10:10:00.000-05:002006-03-20T10:31:52.326-05:00

The amount of community and non-profit events happening in Tampa on a weekly basis is staggering.Our websites: TAMPAGOLD.COM and SOHOTAMPA.COM try to provide as much information as we can about these. But sometimes it is just not possible. Recently we received an email from someone taking us to task for not promoting their event. While we had the event listed for several weeks on our very

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1142428918891956452006-03-15T08:09:00.000-05:002006-03-15T08:37:13.220-05:00

With great fanfare the City of Tampa launched the Tampa Riverwalk project for downtown. Lots of area residents have griped about what they call a misplaced emphasis on the downtown area. We think they are just not quite getting what this is all about. It is about YOUR neighborhood.When you live in Carrollwood or SOG (South of Gandy) or Brandon that seems like a lot of b.s. doesn't it ? Well

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1141146000620274122006-02-28T11:37:00.000-05:002006-02-28T12:29:43.703-05:00

As the availability of information keeps exploding, it is always a delight to find a copy of the Weekly Planet and TBT waiting for me at one of my usual beer stops. Ok, you might not always agree with them and the ads and subjects are sometimes a little more over the edge than you might like, but, isn't that what an "alternative" paper is supposed to be all about ?The financially affluent (as

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1140712089072879242006-02-23T11:10:00.000-05:002006-02-23T11:32:42.370-05:00

"No need to worry about security" about US ports is what President Bush had to say about the potential deal to change the mangement of some of our largest ports. "Brownie, your doing a heck of a job" is what the President said about the former FEMA director while touring Hurricane Katrina damaged areas.We are making progress in Iraq, we will get Osama Bin Laden, Iraq has weapons of mass

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1139853024829071512006-02-13T12:19:00.000-05:002006-02-13T13:40:36.600-05:00

That seems to sum up the newly touted deal on the Tampa Museum of Art. Mayor Iorio had come under a lot of heat from Museum supporters after the skirmish over funding and location. Talk of active recruitment of a mayor candidate kept vibrating through the community. She needs the museum to be a significant part of her downtown re-development plans.The Museum has been on a course of elimination

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1139857471383027612006-02-13T10:30:00.000-05:002006-02-13T14:04:31.406-05:00

1. A Republican lead congressional committee has called the handling of the impact of Hurricane Katrina "a national failure."2. The National Forest Service has announced the proposed selling of a significant amount of national property in an effort to raise funds.3. Our Budget Deficits continue to explode while tax cuts for the highest of income individuals are cut.4. Funding of education is

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1138801748194418172006-02-01T08:36:00.000-05:002006-02-01T08:49:08.206-05:00

The State of Florida's Governor Jeb Bush has found himself in the unique position of a significant budget surplus. It sure doesn't happen often and let's hope his brother doesn't hear about it. Brother George took the Federal budget surplus and turned it into record deficits so fast it was spooky, but we will save that for another post.The cost of collecting tax money is not cheap. Bureaucrats

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1138209514496474242006-01-25T11:17:00.000-05:002006-01-26T09:24:33.210-05:00

Let's start this out with the clear statement that I and TAMPAGOLD.COM are supporters of the Arts. Especially anything that allows for the public at large to have exposure to the arts. We are stating this up front because we know the overzealous arts junkies are going to give us grief for the rest of this posting. Lights on Tampa is a good start in reaching to the Tampa community. See our

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1137599277502762972006-01-18T10:39:00.000-05:002006-01-18T11:29:50.306-05:00

In the recent League of Women Voters debate between County Commissioner Rhonda Storms and Attorney Mary Ann Stiles, the issue of an elected County Mayor was clearly defined. It is really a battle of power - the issue of who will actually run the county. Currently 7 elected commissioners (3 elected at large , 4 from individual districts) work as a committee with a paid administrator. The

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1136418569661684562006-01-04T18:32:00.000-05:002006-01-04T18:49:29.676-05:00

The extremely sad story of the 12 miners that died in West Virginia was made considerably worse as a result of the false news leak about their survival. Everyone has to have a pit in their stomach - and their hearts - when hearing of this story. About midnight the false survival story broke. Now being partially blamed on the poor communications technology from the rescuers to those above

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1136395296901522392006-01-04T11:59:00.000-05:002006-01-04T12:24:11.413-05:00

This weekend will see a new effort begin to transform Downtown Tampa - again. The idea of a vibrant nightlife in downtown is still only an idea. Lights on Tampa is trying to make a point that it can happen.Recently over 20 young professionals organizations tried to make that same point at the Downtown after Six event. Several hundred participants came and had a great time. Unfortunately, most

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1135802243321944782005-12-28T14:40:00.000-05:002005-12-28T16:17:10.646-05:00

At this time of year, everyone likes to make predictions about the New Year, so why should we be any different. Here goes:1. The Real Estate Market. The incredible explosion of prices that happened in 2005 cannot continue, but don't look for any big collapse either. While some of the speculative projects will disappear, buyers will be there to step in. BUT the gravy train is over. We hear

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1135105175345235232005-12-20T13:40:00.000-05:002005-12-20T14:04:45.940-05:00

Time - 1920. Location - almost anywhere.There I am working at home as usual when this fancy dressed fella stops by to tell me about how my life is going to change. He tells me about a new world coming and what it is going to mean.I only have to laugh. For generations my family has done as I am doing. Working at home and travelling as we always have. Whether by myself or with the whole family

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1134845317847268542005-12-17T13:32:00.000-05:002005-12-17T14:18:42.686-05:00

With the revelation of the domestic eavesdropping on Americans without court approval by President Bush, we see a continuation of the erosion of the basic concept of a govenment of laws. People being held for extended periods of time with out charges being filed is already part of this erosion process. The inability of them to have access to the court system and a jury is appalling. When you

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1134656616768115622005-12-15T09:15:00.000-05:002005-12-15T09:23:36.793-05:00

The first time Ybor City held this monthly event, it was well received and attended. The abundance of quality art on display throughout the area was a real topic of conversation. However, the subsequent events have been so poorly attended that it has become an embarassment. The City has helped to fund this event. Hartline is running their empty trolleys for the event. Musicians are playing.

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1134567383034840662005-12-14T08:24:00.000-05:002005-12-14T09:39:19.366-05:00

As you have driven downtown by the Federal Courthouse, it has been hard not to notice to barricades indicating something special was going on. That Something Special was the trial of Sami Al-Arian on charges involving terrorism and other grievious acts against our country. The U.S. Government spent lots of money and time to justify their charges against him. They failed. No charge of guilt

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1134572981718796652005-12-14T08:02:00.000-05:002005-12-14T10:12:38.253-05:00

Ok, I admit I am not a religious person, but the spirit of Christmas is a really great feeling. Having shared Hannukah with many friends, that spirit provides a really great feeling too. Since I am not Jewish, it would seem a little strange for me to be saying " Happy Hannukah" to people I greet.But these days in the world of political correctness, saying "Merry Christmas" seems a little

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1133800667586591082005-12-14T08:00:00.000-05:002005-12-14T10:14:03.156-05:00

Recently, SOHOTAMPA.COM and TAMPAGOLD.COM became an affiliate advertising site for over 80 national businesses. Included are Florsheim shoes, Mikasa, Sharper Image, Macy's, Hilo Hatties, Time Life, Aetna and many other household names - and Wal-Mart.Recent articles concerning claims against Wal-Mart of racism and how Wal-Mart responded have lead us to withdraw from being a Wal-Mart affiliate. The

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1133902887645579932005-12-06T15:53:00.000-05:002005-12-06T16:04:03.086-05:00

After a series of many meetings and discussions, it finally took the development of the corner block at Howard and Swann by Post Properties to unleash part of the money required to expand this service. The City required Post to contribute to this service before approving any building permits. Starting in January of 2006, the trolley (actually a bus that looks sort of like a trolley) will

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1133801273279311202005-12-05T11:39:00.000-05:002005-12-05T11:47:53.280-05:00

We received this email from one of our readers and felt it should be posted.Sexuality should, in my opinion, be private.It should be a non-issue.Fem, and Hyper-male stuff is just "acting out". It is an act ofpassive-aggression.People need to learn how to have a well integrated personality of their veryown--instead of acting out a character. (Or in my own personal venacular:being a cartoon.)I

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1133536472098061492005-12-02T10:03:00.000-05:002005-12-02T12:52:04.503-05:00

Cirque de Soleil launched a one month engagement of the production - VAREKAI in St. Petersburg this week.TAMPAGOLD.COM and SOHOTAMPA.COM were invited to attend and to assist in part of their promotion of the event.Having been to a Cirque de Soleil's La Nouba previously, I did not hesitate to commit to them and to attend the opening event.If you like costumes, you have to go.If you like theatre

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1132584055211232312005-11-21T09:27:00.000-05:002005-11-21T09:43:45.920-05:00

It has been funny this year to watch the personality battles between the various leaders in Tampa and Hillsborough County.Remember Alexander Haig's "I'm In Charge" statement. Well when Mayor Iorio and the County Administrator started to tug over who would be in charge following a significant disaster, it sure sounded a familiar tone.With the growth that is happening all over the immediate area,

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1132583089776703822005-11-21T09:17:00.000-05:002005-11-21T09:27:01.883-05:00

After all the ruckus raised about Democratic Congressman Murtha's call for the immediate withdrawl of troops from Iraq, the President finally said something that should have been said long ago. Of course, the White House staff that called Murtha part of the the Michael Moore and Left Wing of America didn't seem to get the message in time.President Bush: "People should feel comfortable about

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1132243080360693652005-11-17T10:51:00.000-05:002005-11-17T11:01:40.096-05:00

Have you looked at a map and seen how much waterfrontage Tampa has ? It is a lot.But have you tried to find a place on the water to enjoy a meal or drinks and enjoy the view ? There aren't very many.Mayor Iorio is aggressively putting together her plans to provide a usable riverfront walkway that will connect all of downtown. Over 2 miles of meandering walks, trails, bridges, and docks will allow

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1132004545513002102005-11-14T16:23:00.000-05:002005-11-14T16:42:25.533-05:00

The current meeting of the minds between Mayor Iorio and the Tampa Museum of Art about locating the new museum in the Cube/Beer Can Building at Kennedy and Ashley on the rivers seems like a wonderful solution to a lot of problems - but only on the surface.The building is an architecturally well designed place with a lot of vacancies that needs something there. The Museum really wants to be on the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1131633719313775162005-11-10T09:21:00.000-05:002005-11-10T09:41:59.336-05:00

In case you missed Wednesday night's Fox News Network's interview of two Hillsborough County Commissioners - Rhonda Storms and Brian Blair - you missed quite a show.Just for your information, we did not want to see the holidays done away with, but isn't the issue education ? Most government agencies do not recognize these holidays.Bill O'Reilly clearly portrayed Storms and her side kick, Blair,

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1131483210083999962005-11-08T15:48:00.000-05:002005-11-08T16:00:52.633-05:00

We might really add - "again" to this title.With the soon demise of the riverfront Tampa Museum of Art, Ybor City has started a campaign to attract the museum to their historic area.The Arts Ybor events could help that become a reality by showing that the area is more than just bars and loud crowds. The recent Shop Hop organized by three Ybor Ad agencies was very impressive in showcasing the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1131036247573572152005-11-03T11:26:00.000-05:002005-11-03T11:44:07.586-05:00

At a recent City Town Meeting, Mayor Iorio indicated that downtown has the infrastructure to allow for the addition of an entire new neighborhood.Not sure what that means as far as numbers go, but that could be 10,000 or more.Do you think our existing neighborhoods can handle the growth already underway ? PalmaCeia has responded by restricting townhouse development. A proposed condo project

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com15tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1130857634095263752005-11-01T09:48:00.000-05:002005-11-01T10:30:50.213-05:00

Tampa's biggest Halloween Party was fun as always this year. Costumes were interesting as always, but something seemed to be amiss.The Chamber of Commerce Guavaween site indicates a possible turnout of 80,000. But this week's reports put the number closer to 50,000.The weather for this fun event was about as close to perfect as possible. We noticed the sidewalks did not seem jammed. The band

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1130856510736471092005-11-01T09:36:00.000-05:002005-11-01T09:48:30.750-05:00

Rosa Parks will alway be known as a significant contributor to helping to eliminate racial discrimination. While racism is still in clear existence today, her efforts definitely helped to make America more aware of discrimination at a time when few seemed to be concerned.But I do not think that is the message that the life of Rosa Parks should be remembered by. Her real message was the power

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1130424984800380762005-10-27T10:44:00.000-04:002005-10-27T10:56:24.860-04:00

Dealing with volunteers for many years, it has seemed that people think we are a TV society - a society that allows us to only turn the switch on or off - or to just switch channels. People don't seem to think that they can cause things to happen. Change the plot or script so to speak. When we really step on some toes (which we do on occasions) ; someone always says to me "I can't believe you

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1129729978530077272005-10-19T09:21:00.000-04:002005-10-21T08:02:14.700-04:00

Mayor Pam Iorio has been conducting a series of Town Hall type meetings across the city over the past few months. The idea is a simple one: go to the neighborhoods, bring along an impressive array of city administrators with pads and pencils in hand, and listen to the gripes, problems, and concerns of the public, and then : RESPOND.The Oct. 18th meeting was designed to reach the South and West

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1129211657905262402005-10-13T09:27:00.000-04:002005-10-13T19:25:03.556-04:00

This past weekend while attending a Buc's party, I was gently attacked by an Ybor business owner about how we clearly did not support Ybor City and its efforts. I listened intently and took the comments to heart.The fact is: I really like Ybor. The rich history and culture reflected in the architecture and character is magnificent to say the least.The District is working to return Ybor from a

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1128041111944650382005-09-29T20:41:00.000-04:002005-09-29T20:45:11.950-04:00

TAMPAGOLD.COM is now providing an automated Calender of Events with a committment to be the Best Calendar in the Tampa Area. Eric Sturm, former calender manager from Verve Tampa Bay, will be managing our site. We are seeking your input ! Check out our calendar and have a look. Regardless of the type of event, we are committed to keeping you informed !Visit Our Calendar here.

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1127329209147018432005-09-21T14:28:00.000-04:002005-09-21T15:39:18.870-04:00

The recent city of Tampa sponsored event at the Tampa Convention Center to bring out comments on Mayor Iorio's Riverwalk idea was truly an event to be savoured.The hired guns from EDAW clearly showed their expertise and professionalism in lots of different ways. First, their previous projects were diverse, creative, and substantial. Second, their presentation was clear and precise without being

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1127144588616983272005-09-19T11:19:00.000-04:002005-09-19T11:43:08.703-04:00

The problems of the levees in New Orleans had been known for years. The biggest problem was the failure of the people and the politicians to be willing to bite the financial bullet and make the levees safe.Now California is examining the same type of issue. With their levees in an earthquake prone area, the proposed cost to bring the levees up to a sufficient safe zone is over $ 1 Billion

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1125944662927607232005-09-05T14:17:00.000-04:002005-09-05T14:24:22.940-04:00

The damage assessment for the area affected by Hurricane Katrina is 90,000 square miles. Sometime this week it is projected that 54,000 federal troops will be on the ground to help this devastated part of our country. OR .60 federal troop member per square mile.Iraq is almost 169,000 square miles in area. According to CNN, we have 138,000 troops in Iraq. OR .81 federal troop member per

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1125751927983475952005-09-03T08:41:00.000-04:002005-09-05T11:37:23.836-04:00

There will be plenty of blame going around concerning the handling/mishandling of the Hurricane Katrina relief efforts. BUT the people without food/water or without a place to go, really do not care about blame for now. They just want the basics that a country like ours should provide.It is clear that the dangers of the levees were made public years ago. Whether possible or not, when you want

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-11603332.post-1125591332019030832005-09-01T11:59:00.000-04:002005-09-01T12:15:32.026-04:00

Just as during the 9/11 disaster, we are all afforded the amazing ability to get a news (including pictures) immediately of the New Orleans - Gulf Coast disaster caused by Hurricane Katrina.The TOTAL devastation is incredible. It could have been us. Hurricane Charley threatened to come right up Tampa Bay, the worst scenario for us according to local planners. You have to feel the pain of the

Bill Sharpehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/06022700734914362648noreply@blogger.com0