CHARLIE'S WINE BAR: 533 S. Howard Ave., Tampa; (813) 250-1967. These events are scheduled: Champagne Tasting, 7:30 p.m. Friday; $25 in advance. ...more

November 13, 2007

Karen Shuey isn't a krewe member, but she knows all about Gasparilla. Especially costumes. ...more

October 31, 2007

The annual art extravaganza known as Gala Corina is about to take off. ...more

October 31, 2007

SEAFOOD BACKFIN BLUE CAFE, 2913 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport; (727) 343-2583. Be prepared to wait at this funky, friendly cafe that showcases the crab - owner-chef Harold Russell cooks about 150 pounds a week. Good suggestions include the Backfin Blue Jumbo Lump Crab Cake, portobello mushrooms and a macadamia nut-crusted fish dinner. ($) ...more

October 24, 2007

SANDWICHES/ SALADS BARROW'S GOURMET FOODS, 3660 Henderson Blvd., Tampa; (813) 870-0950. This friendly, family-owned restaurant stacks up against the competition. In addition to an array of hot and cold sandwiches, the menu features soups and salads. There's also a salad bar with olives, beets, tiny pickled corn, peas, garbanzo and kidney beans, pasta and potato salad, and fresh and dried fruit. Catering is available. ($) ...more

September 26, 2007

PUBLIX: Publix Apron's Cooking School, 7835 Gunn Highway, Tampa; (813) 926-4465. These classes are scheduled: ...more

September 25, 2007