Now that Dancing with the Stars is over and Shawn Johnson has taken home the coveted mirror ball trophy, it's time to break out the Spandex, sequins and high high high heels of your own and bust a move at Salsa Dance Night at the Gulfport Casino. Every Thursday, Carol Rivera teaches the wannabe ballroom-dancers among us to shake and shimmy like a pro. No partners are necessary, and dancers of all skill levels are welcome — so feel free for forgo those heels for some non-slip flats. 7-8:30 p.m., Thursdays, Gulfport Casino Ballroom, 5500 Shore Blvd., Gulfport, $7, 727-893-1070, ci.gulfport.fl.us.
The Alternative Career Seminar for Journalists is a don't-miss event for anyone — newsperson or otherwise — looking for career options in a new field. Speakers from the public relations, marketing, online and publishing industries offer advice, and a career coach is on hand to provide tips for the job hunt. A question and answer session with the experts follows the presentation. 6:45-8:45 p.m. Thurs., May 21, Hillsborough County Library, 3910 S. Manhattan St., Tampa, free, aaja.org.
Sample tasty treats and browse local business exhibits at Taste of Brandon, hosted by the Greater Brandon Chamber of Commerce. Admission includes a drink ticket, entry for prize drawings and a vote in the "taste off." 3:30-8 p.m. Thurs., May 21, Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. 301 N., Tampa, $10 in advance; $15 at the door, 813-622-7275, brandonchamber.com.
This article appears in May 20-26, 2009.