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Neighborhood notebook: What's in store for Samba Room? Mum's the word

HISTORIC HYDE PARK - Word has it that the Samba Room in Old Hyde Park Village will undergo extensive remodeling and reopen as Timpano, an Italian chophouse. Both are owned by Orlando-based e-Brands Restaurants.

Village general manager Pat Westerhouse can't comment on it yet. Officials at e-Brands could not be reached for comment.

The Samba Room opened in the village in mid 2001. It was known for its Latin fare, mojito drinks and stylish decor.

DAVIS ISLANDS - Tired of speeders on the Islands? Wish you could do something about it? Now you can. The Davis Islands Chamber of Commerce is holding a contest to write the "Best Slogan" for an anti-speeding bumper sticker. The winner will receive six movie tickets to Channelside Cinemas. Chamber members will vote on the best slogan at their June 9 meeting.

Participants can deliver slogans to Serendipity, 231 E Davis Blvd., or mail it to the chamber at P.O. Box 1717, Tampa, 33601.

The chamber is also participating in the city's "Neighborhood Speed Watch Program." Volunteers will work with a certified radar operator to document the speeds and license plates of people driving on the Davis Islands bridge. Those going 10 mph or more over the speed limit will get a warning letter from the city.

DOWNTOWN - The Lotus Room, 1101 W Kennedy Blvd., is hosting a "Yoga Nidra Workshop" from 7 to 9 p.m. Thursday. Learn the basics of yoga philosophy and train your mind to relax. The cost is $20.

The Lotus Room is also offering meditation classes with Sahara Rodriguez from 7 to 8 p.m. June 7 and June 21 and from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 19. Suggested donation is $10. Call 254-6777 for reservations or go to www.yogalotusroom.com

PALMA CEIA - Roosevelt Elementary is accepting applications for a new preschool program starting in August. The full-day classes, taught by a certified teacher, will serve 20 students who turn 4 by Sept. 1. Children in the attendance area with siblings at the school have priority. Tuition is $325 per month, plus a $40 quarterly supply fee. Applications are due at the school by June 4. For information, call 272-3090.

BAYSHORE BEAUTIFUL - The Moonlight Garden Circle will meet at 7 p.m. Tuesday at the Tampa Garden Center, 2629 Bayshore Blvd. The program will feature "Butterfly Gardening" by master gardener Pat O'Shea. Gardening tips will include selecting flowers that will attract butterflies to your flower beds. Members are encouraged to bring a photo of their yards to share during National Gardening Week. For information, call 251-5753.