I'm a 39 year old retired combat pilot from the Army.  AFter finally
getting all of my back pay from the government (~$100k), I decided to
buy a house.  Before that, as embarrasing as it is, I had no place to
go (after retiring along with knowing I 2 was going to be in lawsuits
with the government (for unused off days) and with the V.A. to
determine my degree of disability (I was shot).  I'm not the athlete I
was, but would still love to know some NON political places I might
meet women from 20 somthing to 37 (I want kids).  I work as an Author,
so that's not an option as far as meeting people.  The dating sites
have never worked and I'm just about to give up.  Facts about me.  I
love kids, but only can handle them for so long.  I suffer from
dysthemia and PTSD.  I'm a roller skating fanatic and would love to
know if Tampa has an adult night roller skating rink.  I love fast
pitch baseball (not softball), as well as,  basketball, tennis,
volleyball, bicycling (though not fast due to my injuries--that's true
for all sports actually)studying, taking classes (I'm enrolled to
start at USF in FAll 2006 and have already taken 9 masters credits
which is all USF will transfer.  One of the things I'm thining of
doing is starting a flag football league down in Florida.  The main
problem is I'm living in New York now waiting for the people in my
house to have their new house finished. The tenants pay my mortgage
until they're ready to move. I'm satisfied with every part of
my life except my love life where once I meet someone I rarely have
problems (normally they lead to LTR's.  Since I'll be moving to Tampa
in 6-9 months, it's worthless looking in NY (Smithtown) isn't it? 
Second, I don't know anybody in Tampa except for oneperson.  My
problem is I'm not the type who approaches women becauseas soon as I
say hello, without looking up, they say "I'm notinterested" not even
knowing what I'm asking." (even if I just say something about the book
they've picked up if I've read it).  I've even considered marrying a
former Soviet woman.  All I can say now is HELP!  I am able to tell
any woman where to meet MEN! but I have no clue as to where men
are guaranteed to meet women and even make lots of new friends. Your
help would be greatly appreciated.  BTW, the house I bought is in New Tampa,
Pasco County, about 15 minutes from USF and the VA hospital (yes, I
still need counseling.  I never imagined what killing would do to my
soul). I could write much more, but to sum it up...  how do I meet
women in Tampa, What sporting events or other women meeting
suggestions or organizations would you recommend for someone my age in
Tampa,
is it feasible to start a flag football league of my own or a slow
riders bike riding group? (I was famous for my organization skills
both in the ARMY and my previous positions.  Of course the league
would be Co Ed.  One last thing--I signed up impulsively with Together
when I split with my last gf.  I never even
sent in the questionnaire.  I've called the office as well as the home
office.  I've never received any services.  How do you suggest I get
my $1,000 back?  Is putting up a half page ad for myself in a well
read newspaper offering a reward to anyone who can find the right
woman for me?  I'm seriously considering it.  I'm just not a bar/club
guy.
I have a high IQ, achieving my 4 year degree at 19 and
married at 20, After the military, spent years as change management
(effeciency expert) for Raytheon.  Now I'm getting a Ph.D. in
Criminology.  None of this seems to matter though.  I'm just shocked
at the shallowness of women.  I'm
only 5'8"  This makes me undesireable--according to 20/20 a full 40%
of women wouldn't consider dating me.  I usually end up dating taller
women anyway (no problems with the ego on my part).  I guess that's
all the information I'll give.  Help me the best you can for the $100.
 If you really believe I'd do much better with all this for $200, let
me know and I'll make it $200.  Thank you very much for you help.
Please feel free to to ask away if you have other questions.
ART SCOTT
CW3, USA
Retired

Hello there, mackspane-ga!

I have compiled a fairly good list of organizations that should give
you a head start in meeting singles of both sexes when you relocated
to Tampa. I fully understand your hesitancy in pursuing the bar scene
and I don't think most women in the age group you are interested in
are very comfortable looking for a single man in that atmosphere,
either!

Below you will find a variety of different groups, from singles
get-togethers, to sports activities, to several pages of "MeetUp"
groups that offer a non-threatening way to potentially find single
women who share your interests. Don't overlook volunteer
opportunities, either. Many single people volunteer their time to
causes they care about and it can be a wonderful way to meet women.
Charity walkathons are also a good way to stay fit and converse with
new people (often women!) while moving forward for a good cause.

As far as placing an ad - I don't advise it! I understand your
frustration, but most women would be very wary of any man who
advertises a reward for the right gal!


Now, for the links...



Brandon Singles Group
======================
"Brandon Singles Group is a not for profit organization of single men
and women, in the Brandon and Tampa, Florida area. Because Brandon
Singles Group is web and e-mail based, overhead is low (our sponsor
pays for the domain name, and to keep the site ad free) so there are
no singles club membership dues, or fees, in our group. Membership is
open to any Brandon - Tampa, Florida area single (divorced, widowed,
never married, or separated) adult." http://www.brandonsingles.com/



Tampa Singles
==============
"Opportunity to meet other adults who are interested in sharing
social/cultural/athletic activities together in an adult atmosphere.
Great way of introducing yourself to different activities and
participate in Tampa Bay events...."
http://www.tampasingles1.com/

Meetings and Map
http://www.tampasingles1.com/meetings_page.html

Sample Calendar
http://www.tampasingles1.com/sample_calendar_page.html



Activities Unlimited Social Club
=================================
From the Bulletin Board section of the Tampa Tribune, June 9, 2005:

SINGLES CLUB: Activities Unlimited, a social group for ages 35 and
older, meets at The Oaks, 108 Lithia-Pinecrest Road. Social hour is at
6 p.m., followed by activity planning at 7 p.m. For details, call
Diane at (813) 340-5144. http://tampatrib.com/News/MGBIT3XWP9E.html



TAMPA MEETUP GROUPS 
=====================
I think these groups offer "excellent potential" for meeting single
women. Don't just concentrate on singles groups since women are often
threatened by such outright "advertising." Go to some groups which may
be along your lines of interest - there are a host of groups listed -
everything from political groups, to pet groups, to business groups,
etc. http://www.meetup.com/cities/us/fl/tampa/
 
Some singles groups listed in the mix:

Join the Tampa Singles Meetup Group forum:
http://singles.meetup.com/93/

The Tampa New In Town Meetup Group
http://newintown.meetup.com/72/



SINGLE GOURMET CLUB (different, but you might like some good meals!!)
=======================================================================
"The Single Gourmet Club is a social membership club for professional
men and women in their 30's, 40's, and 50's who are looking to meet
and socialize with other singles. The Single Gourmet Club plans
numerous social and leisure activities every month throughout the
entire Tampa Bay area and special events in and around the State of
Florida. These events are detailed in our club's monthly newsletter
which is mailed and sent via email to our members."
http://www.singlegourmetclub.com/


Excerpt from the FAQ's page:
http://www.singlegourmetclub.com/questions.htm

How many singles attend an event? "Generally speaking, that depends on
the type of event and the size of the restaurant or venue. Our dinners
are usually attended by 20-50 singles, and our happy hour dance
parties, between 70-125."

How old are your members? - "The Singles Gourmet Club is open to all
age groups with most of our members being in their 30's, 40's, & 50's.
So no matter what your age, feel assured that you won't feel out of
place and will meet other singles around your same age."

Is the Single Gourmet Club a Dating Service? - "The Single Gourmet
Club is neither a dating nor matchmaking service. We offer our members
a comfortable way to socialize with other local singles. It's entirely
up to you whether you're looking to make new friends, network, or to
date other singles."

(Read further....


DOLLIES
=========
"We focus on singles, but couples are welcome as long as they come
together. Most singles are 35 and over at all events and travel. That
seems to be the age that needs a singles group. I do not have a
membership. Parties, travel and events are open to all at the same low
prices I offer. At times you will find I work with other singles clubs
to help bring in new faces and marketing."
http://www.dollies-partybook.com/




SPORTS
=======

Tampa Bay Club Sport
=====================
"From sport leagues to parties and happy hours to special sporting
events, active young professionals can do it all with TBCS. Club Sport
is the area's largest provider of social sports leagues. We are here
to make sure you get involved, stay active, and meet new people.
Year-round leagues include: flag football, soccer, softball, sand
volleyball, basketball, kickball, golf and more! It is a great way to
get out, get social, & have fun in a friendly atmosphere. Visit our
FAQ page for answers to all your Tampa Bay Club Sport questions. We're
looking forward to seeing you out there!!"
http://www.tampabayclubsport.com/

FAQ's
http://www.tampabayclubsport.com/FAQ.htm

"Will I meet people? YES!!! If you are new to the area or just looking
to expand your horizons, Club Sport is an excellent, low pressure way
to meet some great people. All Club Sport functions offer a friendly
and safe atmosphere in which to interact using the desire to play
sports as a common interest. In fact, a number of Club Sport members
have met their perfect match or best friends right there on the field.
More than one on field proposal has taken place at TBCS games."
http://www.tampabayclubsport.com/FAQ.htm#faq4


Tampa Bay Singles Golf (another sport you might like to learn)
==============================================================
"The Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Singles Golf Association (ASGA)
is a golf organization dedicated to getting single people together
both on and off the course! Tampa Bay members range in ages from 30 -
70 years with the majority being in their 40's and 50's. Most members
have handicaps ranging from 10 to 40. A golf tournament is held once a
month on weekends at different courses throughout the bay area and
social activities are planned on a regular basis...."
http://www.tampabaysinglesgolf.com/AboutUs.htm 

"The Tampa Bay Chapter of the American Singles Golf Association is a
golf organization dedicated to getting single golfers together on and
off the course. We meet the second Tuesday of each month at Landry's
Seafood House on the Courtney Campbell Causeway. Call (813) 289-7773
for directions. Cost at the door is $10 for members and first or
second-time guests. Cost for non-members on third or higher visit is
$15. An hors d'oeuvre buffet is included and cash bar is available.
Doors open at 5:30 p.m. and the meeting begins at 7:00 p.m." 
http://www.tampabaysinglesgolf.com/


 
ROLLER SKATING AND INLINE SKATING
===================================
Can you learn to Inline Skate? Inline skating seems to be more the
rage in Tampa than skating in a rink.

The Sunday Bladers
------------------
"The Sunday Bladers is an informal Social group that enjoys More than
just Roller Blading. We Blade at various locations around the
Tampa-St. Petersburg metro area. Every Sunday is a New Adventure from
Tarpon Springs to Longboat Key, from St. Petersburg to Brandon. We
usually Blade 10-12 miles in the summer and 12-20 miles in the cooler
months. We meet at 8:00am and roll out at 8:30."  ****Brunch
afterwards Always****
http://www.sundayblade.com/default.htm

Summer schedule - http://www.sundayblade.com/Schedule.htm


SkateTampa
-----------
For monthly skates at all levels and instruction, see the SkateTampa website:
http://www.skatetampa.com/NewSkateTampa/Active_Schedule/jacksons.htm

"NOTE:  Bill Jackson's offers a novice skating class on Select
Saturday mornings and private instruction for all levels.  Please call
576-4169 for more info.

=

The inline skate forum will give you an inside look into several
singles in Florida who enjoy this activity. You might want to post
your name on the site.
http://groups.msn.com/CFTBInlineSkateClub/mymemberprofile.msnw

=

United Skates of America in Tampa does have two adult skate nights but
they include ages 17 and older. See the calendar below:
http://www.usa-skating.com/dynamic.asp?schimg=reg_sch.gif&sel=5&LinkID=1



A FEW MORE SUGGESTIONS:


TAMPA'S YOUNG PROFESSIONALS COMMUNITY
======================================
Many singles join Young Professional's groups to meet others in a more
productive and interesting manner than the club scene. Although you
are a writer, a group like Verve might serve your purpose. The age
group might be a bit younger than you but it is worth a phone call to
see if you can get involved.

Verve Homepage
http://www.vervetampabay.com/index.htm

Why Verve?
http://www.vervetampabay.com/W%20H%20Y%20V%20E%20R%20V%20E.htm



VOLUNTEER IN TAMPA
===================
 Volunteering is a great way to meet both men and women, single and
married. I don't know what opportunities might pique your interest or
suit your timeframe, but you might be interested in scrolling through
the pages in the following search string:
://www.google.com/search?hl=en&lr=&rls=GGLD%2CGGLD%3A2003-47%2CGGLD%3Aen&biw=1003&q=tampa+volunteers



Tampa Bay Online Chat 
=====================
There is a singles chat on Saturday night as well as several open chats.
http://tampa.about.com/mpchat.htm 


==

 I hope my suggestions provide a good start for you. I have no doubt
you will meet a great group of interesting new friends and I wish you
the very best of luck in your move. It's always fun to take a step
foward!


Sincerely,

umiat


Search Strategy
tampa singles
Tampa Bay "singles groups"
adult roller skating groups in tampa
new tampa singles
new tampa single recreation activities
athletic singles in tampa
roller rinks AND tampa
tampa relocation
young professionals of tampa
tampa volunteers

Hey bro it's all in the mind, I'm 5'5" and live over here in
california. I'm not mister personality nor am I someone that women
lust over being that I'm short; but if it weren't for David Deangelo I
would also be lame as well.

To make a long story short I bang about three different women every
week, and don't spend much time trying. Now that may sound shallow,
but that's what my goal was when reading his book. A lot of it is in
your mind and once you deal with the negative projections you have
about yourself. You can finally move on with your life and be
successful in any circumstance and situation. Go ahead and look up
this string of text.

http://www.doubleyourdating.com/

Double Your Dating
What Every Man Should Know
About How To Be
Successful With Women
By David DeAngelo

The book is not that expensive and the only big cost in this whole
process will be your time and perseverance.

If I could impart only a little of what I learned is:

All women want to be dominated (They want a man who takes charge! Not a wuss)
this also dips into the confidence issues.

Fear is very stinky, so the best mindset you can have when approaching
a 9-10 rating woman is...have something to do afterwards, you plan
something fun to do just in case you get rejected and that way when
you approach her your not worried if she'll go with you or not cause
hey!....you got plans!

Listen to Tom Leykis (www.blowmeuptom.com)this guy will give you a
glimpse on what a man should be. Not the pussified mainstream that the
media pushes on us guy's (I don't agree with everything he states, but
he is right on with many views)

After all this you have to find out who you are, why do you want to do
this and be at peace with yourself, then you can confidently "go
forth"

And the last thing:

Practice, practice practice! you cannot "be the man!" if you don't get
back on that horse after you get shot down, rejected and thrown off
many times; the positive side of all this is that you become stronger,
better, more refined and at last a master of your own destiny!

Try the Tampa Sports & Social Club at www.playtampa.com.  They have
all kinds of activities, parties, sports leagues that are co-ed, etc. 
I have met most of my friends from this club.

http://www.PlayTampa.com
is the correct site and they also cover the Greater Brandon area and New Tampa

The club in Tampa at 
http://www.PlayTampa.com
is now in the Greater Brandon Area which includes Brandon, Seffner,
Valrico, Dover, Bloomingdale, Lithia, Apollo Beach and Riverview. 
They were just on a local sports show telling about there softball,
flag-football, basketball, soccer, golf and adult volleyball leagues. 
I just signed up online, good luck.
Eric