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USF considers training in Vero Beach - Jupiter Courier

TAMPA — University of South Florida football coach Skip Holtz’s first preseason camp could have an NFL feel to it, as the Bulls are strongly considering spending up to two weeks of August practice in Vero ...

Afternoon kickoff for USF-Florida - Tampa Bay Online

The first meeting between the South Florida and Florida football teams will kick off at 12:21 p.m. Sept. 11 in Gainesville and be televised on the SEC Network, it was announced Wednesday. In the Tampa Bay ...

Bay area hotels offer deals to Florida residents - Tampa Bay Online

TAMPA - Although ooze from the Gulf of Mexico spill has not reached the Tampa Bay area, officials here want federal lawmakers to know that the disaster's tangible and perceived effect continues to hammer the region's ...

PAL youth directors clean area beaches - Jupiter Courier

FORT PIERCE — In St. Lucie County, Police Athletic Leagues in Fort Pierce and Port St. Lucie have active Youth Directors Programs, where teens volunteer their services to help the community. On July 17 ...

Bill Clinton heads to Florida Aug. 16 to rally for Meek - Tampabay.com (blog)

Bill Clinton will appear at three events in South Florida -- Palm Beach, Broward and Miami-Dade -- on Aug. 16. Kendrick Meek campaign spokesman Adam Sharon said they will be outdoor rallies, aimed at getting out the vote ...

Oil spill update: Oil spill heads to Florida Panhandle creating anxiety (video) - Examiner

It’s been 45 days since the Deepwater Horizon explosion and now, the oil spill is on its way to the Florida Panhandle. The oil sheen will land in Pensacola, Florida and residents are anxious. Desperate steps are ...

3 officer involved Tampa area shootings in 3 days - Palm Beach Interactive

BROOKSVILLE, Fla. — For the third time in as many days, Tampa Bay area law enforcement have been involved in shootings. In Hernando County, sheriff's deputies killed 39-year-old Keith Ritchie during a gunfight ...

Gulf oil spill clean-up methods push 1.84 million gallons of toxic chemicals across Tampa, Florida - Examiner

Day 92 of the Gulf oil spill disaster and with the geyser now appearing successfully capped focus now changes to the cleanup efforts involved. Most citizens across the world already know the drill of volunteer workers ...

Florida owes $52.7 million in unpaid solar energy rebates - St. Petersburg Times

LARGO — The state owes green Floridians $52.7 million in unpaid solar energy rebates and has no immediate plan to honor its financial promise. More than 15,800 people await the rebates, which were dangled ...

Florida State League - Newsday

St. Lucie at Tampa, 7 p.m. Brevard County at Bradenton, 7 p.m. Fort Myers at Clearwater, 7 p.m. Charlotte 5, Lakeland 2 Jupiter 18, Daytona 4 Fort Myers at Clearwater, 6:30 p.m. St. Lucie at Tampa, 7 p.m ...

Open Question: Are there any popular nightclubs in Clearwater, Florida?

I'm a 19 year old female and going to be there for a few days on vacation and would like to find a good place to dance at night that has a younger crowd (20s). If there's any located on the beach that would be preferred. I will also be spending a night in Tampa so suggestions around that area would be appreciated too. Specific names please. Thanks! more

Open Question: Help with Orlando Hotel for me and 5 year old son?

I need a little help with planning a trip to orlando with my 5 year old son. Its our 1st time going to Orlando, Florida :) I have only booked my flights so far, could anyone recommend a good hotel for the 1st two weeks of march 2011? I was about to book Holiday Inn Club Vacations Orlando - Orange Lake Resort, which looks like a great resort, our own kitchen (to save a bit of money) and the pools and everything looks amazing..however after reading reviews on trip advisor there seems to be a LOT of extra costs, like $9 a day for tubes for the lazy river and $15 each for a shuttle bus to the disney parks etc. :/ and i plan to go to the disney parks almost everyday for the 2 weeks! My friend told me some hotels offer free shuttle buses to the parks and i came across Gaylord Palms, another gorgeous hotel but they only have small rooms with no kitchen so we'll have to eat out everynight. I've searched the internet and the two best hotels i could find (in my price range was these 2 hotels). Would it be too much hassle maybe booking 1 week in the Holiday Inn, Orange Lake and 1 week in Gaylord Palms? As we'd get free shuttles in one hotel and great pools in the other! Or should i book into the same hotel for the 2 weeks? I'm so confused! Has anyone stayed at either of these hotels? Could anybody recommend any other good hotels around the disney area, preferably with free shuttles to the parks, and good pools, and lots of things to do at the hotel, as i plan to spent the rest of the holiday relaxing at the hotel. Also Im not goin to rent a car as its only me and my son and with the cost of parking at disney, fuel and the Daily Surcharge for drivers under 25, it wouldnt be worth it. Whats the weather like the 1st two weeks of March? Also which parks would you recommend for a 5 year old? The Walt Disney Resort or to get the Orlando FlexTicket, or the Orlando Freedom Ticket which lets you visit: * Magic Kingdom Park * Epcot * Disney's Hollywood Studios * Disney's Animal Kingdom * Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park* * Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park* * Universal Studios Florida * Universal's Islands of Adventure * SeaWorld Orlando * Aquatica * Busch Gardens Tampa Bay Which would be the best for a 5 year old? If we got the Orlando Freedom Ticket, would we have enough time to visit much diffrent parks, or would it be a waste of money? After looking both of them up, I thought the Orlando Flexiticket looked best, but would my 5 year old enjoy it? Sorry for all the question :) hope someone will be able to help, Thanks. more

Voting Question: Florida panhandle and Tampa beach information?

Can anybody tell me the condition of the Destin beaches and the beaches at Tampa/St.Pete? more

Resolved Question: Can anyone who has visited or lived in southwest Florida tell me about some great...?

...attractions, restaurants, bars, etc.?We are spending Christmas and New Year's in Fort Myers, Sarasota and Tampa. I know that the beaches are beautiful, but what else is there? I am trying to make it an exciting and fun trip for everyone, including my younger sister, who thinks we have to go to Miami for nightlife. If you have any suggestions, books, websites, etc. I would really appreciate it. Thanks a lot! more

Resolved Question: good beach to have a honeymoon?

We are trying to find a romantic beach in florida -preferably near tampa- where we can have a little honeymoon. just a 1 night 2 day kind of thing. we are a very young couple and dont have alot to spend any ideas?were from tampa trying not to go far.. we definetaly cant afford brazil lol i wish. looking to only spend like $300 more

Resolved Question: Which is closer to Miami Florida? West Palm Beach, Tampa, or Daytona Beach?

Resolved Question: best south east state to live in?

I've lived in Maryland, born in Georgia, and Florida. Now i'm out in the west, hate it and i know i'm moving back to the south east. I was thinking the Carolinas or Florida. My parents and grandparents are in tampa florida, i love the gulf coast but not sure about job security, cost of living. (going to college to be a nurse, husband can either do video maintenance, mechanics, or computer) Have ou lived in any of these states? What part? pros/cons? opinons? where would you live? oh and i dont mind heat and love humidity but am a beach bum and would prefer living close to water. I dont like cities (like being close enough to travel easily to one) And dont have a million dollars haha so nowhere fancy or expensive more

Voting Question: What is your favorite Florida State League Minor League team?

North: Brevard County Manatees: ( Milwaukee Brewers) Clearwater Threshers : (Philadelphia Phillies) Daytona Cubs: (Chicago Cubs) Dunedin Blue Jays: (Toronto Blue Jays) Lakeland Flying Tigers (Detroit Tigers) Tampa Yankees (New York Yankees) South: Bradenton Marauders (Pittsburgh Pirates) Charlotte Stone Crabs (Tampa Bay Rays) Ft. Myers Miracle (Minnesota Twins) Jupiter Hammerheads (Florida Marlins) Palm Beach Cardinals (St. Louis Cardinals) St. Lucie Mets (New York Mets) more

Voting Question: what are some horse trails in orlando, tampa, or around naples Florida?

it would be even better if it was a trail on the beach. And what are the rates, and the website? (i would rather go on an intermediate ride if possible). more

Resolved Question: What to do in Cocoa Beach Florida?

4 teenagers and 1 mom. Whats fun to do there? Were already going to the beach, Disney, and A Tampa Bay Rays Game. more

Resolved Question: Where is the nicest place to go on holiday in California?

We would like to go on holiday near a beach on the Californian coast, but we're not really sure where to go. We were thinking somewhere maybe within an hour of LA and Hollywood but we don't know what it's like. We went to Florida a few years ago and would like to go somewhere like Clearwater (nr. St Petersburg and Tampa Bay) that has shops and restaurants and nice beaches. We had a look at Santa Monica but were not sure whether it's any good. Thanks. Here are some pictures of Clearwater - http://www.google.co.uk/images?client=sa… You could also have a look at Clearwater on Google Streetview more

Resolved Question: Why is I-4 an "interstate" highway if it is only in one state?

I-4 only goes across Florida from Tampa to Cocoa Beach...so, why isn't it just a state highway? more

Resolved Question: Questions about my visit to Florida?

Hello, In August I'm going to be taking a trip to Florida for four days with my grandmother and grandfather. I know our schedule the morning of our trip. We will be waking up around 6:00 in the morning, make and take a cup of coffee on the go, and then head out of the house to American Airlines by 6:15. We are heard to arrive at 7:20, get into the airport, have them check our bags, go through security at 7:35, and then wait for our flight (which is at 8:20). Now, I have a big problem with motion sickness. Can you please list all of the things I am able to do for this (I also am a child, so can a 10-year-old girl take anything to prevent the motion sickness?)? I am also going to be on a plane for about two hours (over), so what do I need to bring for the flight? I love to draw my Invader ZIM and Fanboy and Chum Chum characters, watch movies, and I will have a laptop by then, so what can I do with my laptop (other than type up IZ/FBACC episode scripts) when electronics are available for use on the airplane (or give me a website telling me things of what to do on my flight). I am going to be packing at my house, so what do I need to pack for the whole trip? List me (with detail please) a packing list, or list me a website where I can type in information and they will have a list for me of what I need to bring. I will be staying with a relative while in Florida, and we'll be right next to Longboat Key Beach. We'll be in Tampa. What should I bring to do at the beach? Please give me a detailed list or website. Here is some information about my trip: August 5th flight: 8:20 - 11:45. August 8th flight: 8:15 - 9:55. Thanks for answers. ^_^ more

Resolved Question: What to bring/do to/at Longboat Key Island (Tampa, Florida)?

Hello all. <3 In August me and my grandparents are planning a trip to stay in Tampa, FL for four days. We don't know dates, but I do know we'll be staying in a relatives home. We'll be going to the beach, shopping and eating. What are some things I need to bring with me to Tampa? Also, I have motion sickness, so would it be fine to take some Dramamine before takeoff? I also need to know; what should I do while on the airplane? The plane ride is two hours long. Whenever I go to the beach, what should I do while there? Basically the question is what should a ten year old girl do on an airplane? What should she bring? What should she do at the beach? Thanks for you answers. <3 more

Resolved Question: Taking a trip out to Tampa, Florida and I need to know what to bring? (Thanks for answers.) <3?

Hello all. <3 In August I'm going to be taking a trip out to Tampa, Florida with my grandma and grandpa, and I need to know what to bring. I'm going on an airplane, so what could I do on the airplane? I get motion sickness, and should I bring some Dramamine? The main question is what to bring to the (or no the) beach/airplane/Florida. Thanks for answers! <3 more

Resolved Question: I'm lost....how did I fall this far?

Okay, I'll spare you all the details because you'll tell me I'm stuck in the past which I am but thats besides the point. I'll be 27(yikes) in August, I got up at 7:30pm today and I'll be up all night with nothing but my counterfactual thoughts. Two seconds ago I was 21 living in NJ, polishing off an associate's degree planning on continuing my education, working with money in my pocket, nice car, juggling a few girls (not trying to brag, just painting a picture) living in a sweet 2500sq ft. family home, loking forward to Kerry getting elected instead of Bush, partying and going to concerts in NYC, Philadelphia, into the music, fashion, best shape of my life, looking and feeling great, being kind, funny, friendly, knowing people, first time in my life everything was making sense. Cut to today, 26 living in some country town north of Tampa, felony conviction for joyrding, no car, no friends or acquaintances, been unemployed forever, college never came through, 40 bucks in my bank account, 600 owed, isolated, nowhere to even walk, 3000 miles from anything familar...utterly depressed, antisocial, and hopeless. Found out, someone I knew shot himself in the head in Philly last night and it was a real shock and wake up call...now my life has completely crumbled, has taken a unprecendented downward spiral from which there is no end in sight...but I dont think I would ever do anything like that, what scares me is that I understand it. I ruined my life, I know, an spare me the its only the beginning because believe me I messed up beyond repair but.....I dont know, I can't believe what has happened to my life, this seriously wasn't how it was suppossed to be for me...there were a lot of things that happened that were completely out of my control, but you wouldn't believe how much better my life could be at this very second and how easily I could have seen to it. I'm 26, about to be 27 and I feel like I'm like 50 singing my swan song...I guess it has a lot to do with being sorrounded by older people in lame, hot, flat, dumb Florida....not even close to a beach....where I was in hip,intelligent forward thinking tri-state area with endless possibilities. I'm not crying, but I cant imagine what its going to be like at 40, especially since my 20s are turning out to be such an epic bummer......life is nuts my internet friends, I guess you should count your blessings. more

Resolved Question: Cheap vacation packages to Florida?

I plan to go to Florida with my family from July 3-9 or 5-12 (depending on if its more expensive traveling during the July 4th weekend). We've never been there so we don't know weather to rent a car in my current location, Saint Louis, MO and just drive there or to get a vacation package with the flight-hotel-car. I need help finding something very inexpensive up to 500 per person, I've tried Expedia and Orbitz but I'm not familiar with what to do so I need help from someone more experienced. Also the location in Florida doesn't matter but I prefer Miami or Tampa. There will be 3 adults traveling and one 16 year old child. Also, I want the hotel/motel to be right by the beach, thanks. more

Resolved Question: What is the cheapest flight from Washington DC to Florida?

Hey, We've spent a good 5 hours looking for a flight that fits our budget and at this point, we're seriously at a loss. We need help. We want to fly from Washington DC (or nearby) to Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Tampa, or LA on July 1st/2nd returning on July 5th in $250. As of now, the only opportunity we've found is for $200 via Spirit Airlines. As a consequence of the pilot strike, we're concerned that if we book our tickets, we'll be stranded at the airport - something no one wants to endure. Hence, we're looking at other options. Because our airline budget can't exceed $250 per ticket and we really want to from DC to Florida, we're stuck trying to find deals and we need your help. We want to go to Florida because 1) we've never been, and 2) we want to head out to an awesome beach spot! A couple questions: 1. Can you help us please find the best deal you possibly can from DC --> Florida (Ft. Lauderdale/Miami/Tampa) or even California within our budget? 2. Where do we look? I know this is the July 4th weekend and its a tough market for discount prices, but something has to work...? 3. If Florida or California is not meant to be, where else can we go from DC that sets us up to go to an 'awesome' beach location for the July 4th weekend? We've been to Virginia Beach already, so let's consider another alternative. Any help is strongly appreciated. Thank you so much :) more

Resolved Question: Fun Florida beach locations for my 21st birthday?

I live in Tampa and will be turning 21 in a couple of months. I am trying to plan my birthday party early to give people plenty of time to save money or set their schedules. I am looking to go to a beach somewhere that has a hotel room or suite that will hold like 10 people and also has a good night life. I do not want to go somewhere like St. Pete or Clearwater because I can go there anytime. I am looking for a place that will be fun and new! more

Resolved Question: Will The Florida Gulf Coast Be RUINED By The Oil Spill?

I am planning on moving to the Tampa Bay/ St. Petersburg area of Florida after college. I'm kinda upset now because a huge part of wanting to moving to Florida is to be near the beautiful beaches Florida has to offer. Will the oil stain the white sand beaches brown or whatever color the oil is? If so, will it ever return to being its crisp clean white it is now? (I haven't been to the florida gulf coast yet, and really want to-a friend of mine just moved to the same area and I'm going to visit him sometime soon) more

Resolved Question: What to visit in Florida?

I am planning a mega road trip in Florida, only places worth visiting. I came up with this list: Tallahassee Jacksonville Panama City St. Augustine Pensacola Daytona Beach Tampa/St. Petersburg Naples I already went to Miami and its surrounding areas along with The Keys. I know nothing about the above cities/towns but I keep hearing about them. What is worthy of a visit? Assume price is not a factor. more

Resolved Question: What's there to do on vaca in Tampa, Florida?

So a friend and I are going to Tampa, Florida this summer(early June) for a week. I'm looking into weather and stuff but I wanna know what kind of stuff there is to do there. I wanna know things like, places to shop for good souvieners, good cheap food and calm beaches. -I like cheap local places and I'm a vegetarian as well. -My friend is 23 and I'm 19 so good places for our age range. -Beaches without a lot of families and little kids running around. Is there anyone who lives there who has any good advice for day and night play that won't make us look like tourists? more

Resolved Question: Should I move to florida? Florida residents please.?

I have one year until I graduate college. Then I have plans to get a masters and or get a job. Ever since I started college I randomly said I am going to move to florida. Last winter I took a cheap vacation there and went to Tampa, Miami, Keys, Jupiter, Orlando all over in my car. I live in Illinois now and hate the state and the politics if you know what I mean. Anyways I want to move and florida seems to be a nice state. Cheap homes to and I know the pay in my field is less down there but I'm young and don't care about that right now. Why florida, I love off roading, beach's, windsurfing, biking and hiking. Yes I have been there during the summer so I know how hot it gets and how buggy it gets. A lot of people say that there is to many old people down there but when I was down there that didn't seem to be a problem. I went to all the big city's and seem to love them all but wouldn't want to live in south florida because I felt cramped there but Tampa was my fave and Jupiter or all along the east seemed ok but really didn't get into the country which is what I'm use too. So what do you guys think? am I Florida approved or not? more

Resolved Question: Help with Florida please?

Want to go on holiday to Florida but not sure where. I was looking at somewhere in the Panhandle but I'm worried it would be trashy and too many families with kids and no entertainment for 30 someting people. I would hate having to be crowded by kids in the swimming pools and beaches. I will be travelling between 13August and 31August 2010. I am looking to rent a villa/condo for me and some mates. Could anyone suggest anywhere but Miami?? Naples??? Tampa?? St. Petersburg. more

Resolved Question: Jonas Brothers Concert?

Ok. There is a Jonas Brother's tour this year and I was checking for tickets in Florida. I am confused though because some sites say they are coming to Fort Lauderdale and others say they are coming to West Palm Beach. Does anyone know where in Florida they are coming? Not Orlando or Tampa...I know that. I need to know if its Fort Lauderdale or West Palm Beach. **Now please, I only want legit answers. No BS or any crap/rude talk about them. You don't like them then please don't waste your time and mine with a stupid answer to the question. If you do, I will report you. Thank you!** more

Resolved Question: what to do in clearwater, tampa, and orlando FLORIDA?

My boyfriend and I are going to all these places in july! :) But I would like to know what is there to do there? I know we can go to the beach and disney, but i want to do more than that! what can we do? we are going to be there for a whole week :) please give me some info! thanksold school... this is my second time and until i have some GOOD answers. and of course you had the crappiest one! :)im 21. we will be staying right on the beach :)we have been to florida many many times.. but were always on the beach, the mall, or out shopping somewhere! and i want to do something different this time. more

Resolved Question: What Is the approximate time, South Carolina to Florida?

Myrtle Beach-Tampa Florida more

Resolved Question: I feel like such a loser.?

Okay, so I have an AP European History Exam in less than two weeks which is what I need to focus on for this weekend and next. Even though I know that I need to study I feel like such a loser for sitting in the house all day while I see people posting things on Facebook like "going to the beach" or "going out with friends." My boyfriend lives in New Jersey, it's a long distance relationship and he has four AP exams this year. Whenever he asks me what my plans are for the weekend I feel like such a loser because I'm really not doing anything, while he's always going to the boardwalk or playing dodgeball on the boardwalk with his guy friends. He lives right off the boardwalk, so I know that he can just walk on the boardwalk to have fun, but I live in outside of Tampa, Florida, which means that you have to drive a distance to get anywhere worth while. And I'm only 15, so I can't drive yet. And I have to babysit this evening, so I can't go out to the movies or anything tonight. I understand that my boyfriend and I live in two very different places, so he has more access to "fun," and I know that I'm supposed to be studying this weekend and next for my AP exam, but I just feel like I'm the biggest loser out there. The biggest events that are happening for me this weekend are going to the gym and going grocery shopping. I think I might be going stir crazy from sitting in my house all weekend. And sometimes my boyfriend will text me, I'll text him back about twenty minutes later, and then he won't reply for like an hour or more. It just makes me feel like even more of a loser for having nothing better to do than check for his texts while he's probably out having fun. I honestly don't know what to do. I hate that he doesn't text me back, like I said before, it just makes me feel like I'm even more of a loser for having nothing better to do than check for his texts. I have this heavy feeling in my chest that's just been lingering there, I don't know if it's stress, anxiety, loneliness, or what. It's just killing me. Please help. Any advice is appreciated.To answer the question about my boyfriend and I meeting... We meet on a cruise over spring break; we didn't meet online. It sounds crazy but we really like each other and are going to be seeing each other in less than two months. Our parents are pretty good friends as well. more

Resolved Question: Suppose I punch out my soon to be ex-boss.?

Here's my story, sorry if it's a bit lengthy. At the tragic expense of my grandfather's sudden and early death, I've recived my multi-million dollar inheritence earlier than anticipated. He was an executive for Warren Buffets Berkshire Hathaway and bought up several hundred shares of stock while they were dirt cheap. My current financial situation is this: A 41 year annuity of $807'000.00 a year (Actually direct deposits monthly.) Also a secluded beach house in the Hawaiian islands as my permanent residence, with a just hired staff of a butler/cook and a housekeeper. And 2.5 Million remaining in uncommited dollars spread out in three bank accounts, that will be my retirement when my annuity runs out at the age of 61. As you can see, I'm a 20 years man and set for life. Further more, and you can correct me if I'm wrong about this, that's why I'm here asking, but it would seem that I have nothing to lose when I go in for my final check. You see, a week from this friday, I go in for my final check (Turned over to charity of course). I am assistant manager at a golf course and absolutly despise the boss. She has made the last year of my life miserable, and instead of going out with a handshake, I'm thinking of going out with a literal bang. Because, I live in Pensacola county Florida, and my flight to my new life in Hawaii is 11am a week from friday in Tampa. So, two hours before the flight, I get there at opening at 9am, noone else is there, I get my check, rough her up a bit then high tail it out of there. This is my opinion: Even though Tampa, the location of the airport is a neighboring county, the process of extradition remains nonetheless. So, even if she can tell the police I'm theat I'm at the airport (Which I do not believe she would know, I didn't tell anyone the exact date), there would be way too much legistical stuff to be able to get me before the flight takes off. (Even if they did, I could pay my bail, then leave, and consider it worth it.) As single mom collecting child support, we can rule out her suing. She would not only have travel expense that she likely cannot afford, but there's absolutly no way on earth she can afford an attorney who can take on the one I hire. Not to sound like I'm gloating, but I can afford any attorney on earth, she cannot. She'd have trouble meeting her burden of proof anyway, with no cameras on the course premises. Not to mention as little as a few K's can easily buy a jurors vote(In a civil case that big I can opt for a jury.) Expect her to not even consider civil action. I don't like her attitude, but she's not downright stupid. Last but not least, this IS a repost. I'm asking again because last time everyone was talking about extradition. Consider it this way: The DA is going to pay out of his budget, provided by taxpayers, to have me extradited all the way back from Hawaii over a simple assualt charge. He's gonna cover the expense of my arrest in Hawaii, and pay to put me on a plane, and fly me halfway across the pacific just to get to the west coast, than transfer planes on or two times back to tampa? Simple assault charge? I think we can rule out extradition of that distance for 90 % of all crimes. So, am I foolproof. more

Resolved Question: What college in Florida is best for me?

I am currently at a community college, looking to transfer to a university in Florida. I have 49 units so far. I would like to study Real Estate Law after I recieve my BS. I am looking into University of Tampa and University of Miami. I am looking for, obviously, a university with lower tuition costs. I loveeee the beach, night life, lots of action and a clean city. Any recommendations? Thanks, guys.I currently live and go to school in California. more

Resolved Question: Best places to visit in florida?

So I live in Broward Country - Hollywood, Florida. My parents and I are constantly going to the same places. Miami beach, Ft. lauderdale and Orlando (Disney), Tampa (busch gardens) to name a few and they're getting boring. We want to visit new places that are great for family activities. So, any suggestions? It has to be affordable, and it can be anywhere in florida. Preferably south florida if you can. Please let me know! more

Resolved Question: NEED HELP with picking a CRUISE for a first time cruiser...?

Hope you can narrow down my choices of different cruises I've looked at. I have free airfare out of either Tampa, Ft. Lauderdale, Orlando (Port Canaveral), or New Orleans so the ship would have to leave from one of those ports. Things we'd like: not very expensive (for example prices of more than a quoted $400 per person end up being too much after taxes, etc. we'd like to stay around $900 for the two of us, although we realize that drinks, sodas, excursion, tips, etc. will add to that amount), either 4 nights up to 6 nights on the ship, excursions off the ship to places that have perfectly clear blue water (unlike Florida where you couldn't see a shark if it was underneath you!), food that's good but we would like some dinner choices that don''t have to involve us sitting with other people at night unless we really want to (there will only be two of us), a quiet place on the ship without kids where we can just look out at the water and sip cocktails, possible a jazz club on board, or a good casino. Things that aren't that important to us: swimming in the pools on the ship, kids activities (since it will be just us/two 45 year olds), taking part in shows or contests (seeing a hairy chest contest is not my idea of fun..), lines to eat dinner or being forced to sit with 10 other people, huge crowds at every single excursion off the ship (although I realize crowds are part of the deal on cruises, but just wondering if you know of one that has more quiet hide-a-ways or private excursion to private beaches with less than 100 people for example.....) Whew! I realize that's a lot to take in, but if you have the best cruise that might fit let me know. I've seen Carnival cruises advertized for low prices when we'd be going around Oct 4 thru Oct 31 and also some Royal Caribbean ones. I looked at Norwegian cruises too but they didn't have ports in these places as far as I could tell, except possibly one out of Port Canaveral, not sure though. Thanks for any info. more

Resolved Question: CLEARWATER BEACH IN TAMPA FLORIDA?

hi im going to the location mentioned above this weekend and i have some questions. answer as many as u can please! 1) do people there mostly swim or just lay out in the sun? 2) is it usually crowded or empty? 3) are the currents really strong and dangerous? 4) if i cant swim, should i panic? TIPS PLEASE :) more

Voting Question: What are some easy colleges to get into?

So far I have applied to seven colleges and haven't gotten into 5... Still waiting to hear from the other two. I did apply to community college and did get in but I don't particularly want to go to a community college for various reasons. I don't have the best grades/sat score... 2. something GPA (74 %... B in my school)and 1150 on my SAT... I am applying to Flagler college again for Jan 2011 because I did not get in for Sept 2010... I am still waiting to hear a response from Arizona State and Montserrat College of Art... ( I really do not think I am going to get in any of them) I may end up at a community college...=( :S If there are any colleges that you know about that I would probably get accepted to please let me know. If this info would be helpful I didn't get into: Flagler College (re-applying tho) Florida Southern College Savannah College of Art and Design Western State College of Colorado University of Tampa Did get into: Palm Beach State College (previously Palm Beach Community College) All advice is helpful. I want to study Graphic Design/Photography/Creative Writing Thankssss more

Resolved Question: Are the beaches and resorts around Tampa/StPete more "speedo friendly" than most places?

I know that being in the United States they will not be as "accepted" as they once were 25+ years ago but will they be more tolerated than they are in the Outer Banks, NC or panhandle Florida or the Redneck Riviera of Alabama and Mississippi and generally everywhere inland US. I've read that America's largest nudist resort is in that area (which I'm not into) and as an effect make my swimwear of choice more accepting. more

Resolved Question: Beaches to visit not too far from orlando?

so im from new york city driving down to florida with my sister and we are staying in disney and visiting family in orlando but would like to spend a couple days at the beach. we were thinking of either going to cocco beach because it has been recommended to us or tampa because i have heard its beautiful. which is closer ? nicer? any other suggestions please let me know. thanks more

Resolved Question: A good anniversary spot in Florida...?

I'm looking for a area near the beach that has good night life but isn't extremely populated. I live on the west coast in Tampa Bay so I'm looking for somewhere on the east coast. Does anyone have any good ideas? more

Resolved Question: spring break in tampa florida?

i am going to tampa, florida for spring break...any ideas of what we should do while there besides sitting on the beach? fyi, two adults one teenage daughter more

Resolved Question: Any places for free pool around largo, florida?

I live on Indian Rocks Beach and I'm looking for free places to play pool (billiards). This is near largo, which is sort of near tampa. I've tried various condominium's on the beach, but they are very strict on who they let in. Any ideas? more

Resolved Question: Do you get your money's worth with the All Day Dining Passes at Sea World parks?

We're going to be traveling to Florida for our kids' spring break and I was wondering how economical the dining passes are. The Sea World & Busch Gardens Tampa Bay all-day dining passes (with 6 & 7 participating food vendors respectively) are $105 per day for my family of four and the Aquatica all-day dining pass would be $72 per day for their "Banana Beach Cook-out". We get free breakfast with our hotel accommodations, but I can see us easily staying at the parks late enough for dinner. For those of you who have purchased (or not purchased) these dining plans - do you consider the value and variety worth the money or would you recommend eating a la carte? It seems easier to me to get the wristband and get unlimited entrees, sides, deserts, and non-alcoholic beverages all day rather than pass around or have to carry cash or credit cards in the park, especially if we split up into pairs occasionally. I know that three of us have easily spent $60 on one meal at Six Flags before, so by comparison to that I feel like this would be a great deal. I haven't been to any of the parks we're visiting, however, so I don't know how the total price compares to the individual costs of food. more

Resolved Question: Spring Break in Florida?

I want to go to South Florida for Spring Break 2010. I'm not looking for any big crazy parties in fact i want more of a family vacation. a good party would be okay but not some crazy thing where everyone is taking of their clothes off. I'm undecided between a couple of cities: Naples, Palm Beach, Cape Canaveral, and Tampa. Which do you recommend? Would it be a good idea to take a road trip that goes: from Miami to Palm Beach one day then to Port St Lucie then Cape Canaveral then Tampa then Port Charlotte back to Miami? Or is that too much and too crazy to do? Please help and thank you. more

Resolved Question: Can anyone recommend a beach resort on Florida gulf coast that has restaurants/bars within walking distance?

We are going to Florida in May for one week and would like a beach vacation on the Gulf Coast. We are 2 adult couples travelling from the UK. We would prefer somewhere that is not too far south as we have to fly home from Tampa. We have been to Naples before but found the hotels a bit spread out. We were miles from the beach and had to get taxis to restaurants in the evening as we like a glass of wine! We also found Naples very pricey. Ideally we would like a two bedroom suite/condo close to a nice beach but walking distance to lively restaurants and bars in the evening. Any ideas? more

Resolved Question: My bf and I want to go on vacation in july ,I want to go to the beach and he wants to go to a theme park?

What are some places you can think of? I already looked in Orlando and couldn't really find anything and we live in Florida so we have both been to Busch Gardens Tampa a trillion times. more

Resolved Question: How many hours drive is it to Dinsey world,Florida from St. petes beach,tampa?

Resolved Question: Why do people from the British Isles move to Florida?

I live in Florida. The Tampa Bay area. I am also an artist. I create surreal or fantasy landscapes in which I use a lot of photos of places like the British Isles and elsewhere in my work. Why? I like the hilly fairytale landscapes with the topiary gardens, ruins and hedgerows, etc. I would love to live in the British Isles and walk among those places. I realize that it gets cold and it is frequently cloudy there. I like a cloudy day now and then but too many can be depressing. Here in Florida, it is sunny most of the time. It is also hot and humid most of the time. We need to have the air conditioning on at least eight months each year. What I mainly dislike about Florida is the terrain. It is flat and modern housing developments are everywhere.There are no mountains at all and very few hills or valleys. To me, this gives one a sense of perspective when you are up on a hill looking over the landscape. Here in florida, out in the country (what's left of it) it is just flat palmetto scrub and thin pine trees in the interior. The beaches at sunset are nice when they aren't too crowded but otherwise you cannot walk anywhere. If you approach a field or lake that hasn't been developed yet, you aren't allowed to get too close because they are always fenced off with 'no tress-passing ' signs everywhere. Yet I meet people from England or Ireland who have moved here and it baffles me. Do you realize how truly beautiful your countries are? more

Resolved Question: What is a good city for vacations in Florida?

All I am looking for is a quiet and clean beach. I've been to st. Pete's Beach but I want to see something else this time. How about Clearwater or Tampa? I want the place to be right by the beach so I won't have to take a bus or anything like that. Preferably, not that expensive. Thanks! more

Resolved Question: Live Music In FLorida?

I live in the Tampa bay area in Florida and for valentines day i want to get my GF a musician to play us some songs at the beach does anybody know where i can find one thanks more

Voting Question: Florida Gulf Coast University vs. University of Tampa?

I was accepted to both of these schools for fall 2010. I'm looking for a school where there is a lot to do on and off campus. I am hoping to go to a school with a good night life and where I can meet many people. I'm willing to any topic suggestions (food, dorms, academics, beaches, sports teams, sorrorities/frats, etc). Also, I am wondering which is more expensive for out of state tuition and by how much. Any personal experiences or opinions would be much appreciated! more

Resolved Question: If I'm moving to Florida, near Tampa, which areas are Liberal, progressive, moderate and conservative?

I just moved here from up North. I do have family in Orlando, but chose to move closer to Tampa because of the Ocean. Does anyone know of what the different areas around are like? I had been thinking about Miami, but my family suggested it was sort of dangerous...does anyone agree? It has actually always been my dream to move to California. I love it out in LA, but I don't have the chance to do that right now. Anyways, I'd love opinions about the Tampa, St. petes, seminole and clearwater areas. I am also interested in any good art and theatre areas, good places to walk pets, good beaches, etc. thanks! =o) more

Resolved Question: Why is Obama trying to take credit for Floridas' High Speed Rail Project?

Especially, When he was in college when the project actually began, and WE the taxpayers have funded the meetings and planes trips to Japan etc. Here's the facts: History of High Speed Rail in Florida Chronology of Events 1976 Florida Transit Corridor Study Is mandated by the Florida Legislature. Feasibility for a High Speed Rail (HSR) between Daytona Beach and St. Petersburg Concludes that implementation of this system is feasible if implemented in stages and recommended the joint use of the existing highway corridors Capital cost of an advanced high speed rail system capable of speeds in excess of 150 mile per hour was estimated at $585 million. 1982 Governor Bob Graham Visits Japan Governor is impressed with the operation of the Shinkansin high speed rail system and, upon his return to Florida he authorizes the creation of the Florida High Speed Rail Committee. 1984 Florida's Future Advanced Transportation Report The report is issued by the high speed rail committee. It concludes that Florida's transportation infrastructure is inadequate to accommodate future growth and that an advanced high speed rail system is essential to Florida's mobility in the 21st century. The report recommends that public/private partnerships be formed to proceed with implementation of the system and that existing publicly owned rights of way should be used. 1984 Florida High Speed Rail Commission The Florida Legislature enacts the Florida High Speed Rail Transportation Commission Act. The act includes strong legislative findings regarding the need for high speed rail in Florida. It creates a seven-member Florida high speed rail commission and charges it with the implementation of high speed rail in Florida. A franchise process is dictated and great emphasis is placed on the establishment of the system through a public/private partnership with extensive reliance on use of real estate development rights to fund the system therefore minimizing the need for public funding. 1986 Florida High Speed Rail Study Completed The final report for the high speed rail study is issued by Barton Aschman Associates. The report concludes that the State should proceed with the implementation of the system connecting Miami, Orlando and Tampa. The study estimates the total infrastructure costs at $2.3 to $2.7 billion. It estimates the ridership at 6 million riders per year It concludes that financing could be achieved through joint land developments, benefit assessment districts and tax increment financing. 1986 Commission Issues Request for Proposals (RFP) 1988 High Speed Rail Proposals Submitted Two proposals are submitted by Florida TGV Inc. and the Florida High Speed Rail Corporation. The Florida TGV Inc. proposal will use the French TGV train with speeds up to 170 mph. The total system cost is estimated at $2.2 billion Ridership is estimated at 5.8 million per year. The TGV company insists from the start that the project could not be completed without public funding The Florida High Speed Rail Corporation proposes to use the Swedish built ABB X2000 train technology with tilt capabilities. The total system capital cost is estimated at $1.9 billion Ridership is estimated at 3.7 million riders. The proposal suggests that extensive real estate development rights will be needed to finance the system and no other public investment should be needed. 1989 TGV Company Withdraws its Proposal With the lack of Commission support for public funding, TGV of Florida withdraws its proposal. 1990 Florida High Speed Rail Corporation Revises its Proposal Following the Commission's staff assessment that utilizing the extensive development rights proposal offered by the Corporation is not tenable, the Corporation revises its proposal to include benefit assessment districts, tax increment finalizing, impact fees and new gas tax to help fund the system. 1991 Governor Chiles Rejects New Proposal, Florida High Speed Rail Corporation Withdraws from Further Consideration 1992 Florida Legislature Enacts the New High Speed Rail Act This act transfers responsibility of HSR from Commission to FDOT. The new law also streamlines the franchise and certification process and limited the use of real estate development for project funding. This act is still valid (F.S. 341.3201 to 341.386) and the Department retains authority for implementation of high speed rail in the State. 1992-1994 Statewide Ridership and Corridor Studies Conducted Extensive transportation and ridership surveys including largest ever intercity market surveys are conducted in the US. 1995 FDOT Announces Funding Commitment for HSR FDOT funding will be $70 million per year for thirty years to be escalated at 4% 1995 FDOT Issues Request for Proposals (RFP) Five Proposals Submitted 1995-1996 Review of Applications Extensive review is conducted by the Department, Citizens Advisory Committee, local governments and state more