Leena's to Offer Night of Romance

Romance shouldn't be just for Valentine's Day.

Leena and Anthony Caligiure, owners of the , will give couples a chance at some post-Valentine's Day romance when they host Romance Night.

Romance Night will take place Friday, Feb. 17 beginning with a pasta station at 6 p.m. followed by instruction in ballroom, salsa and tango dancing with New York professional ballroom dancer Sanj Hira from 7 to 9 p.m. at the chocolate shop, 1048 Bloomingdale Ave., Valrico, in Plaza Bella.

Hira, Leena Caligiure's brother, has more than 20 years experience performing, choreographing, coaching and competing in ballroom and Latin dancing.

The founder of the Ballroom Academy of Long Island where he works with Maks Chmerkovskiy, producer of TV's "Dancing With the Stars," Hira's choreography has been featured in Genovese television commercials. He also has appeared on the TV soap, "All My Children," as well as an independent film, "Angelo My Love."

He currently volunteers with the Coalition Against Child Abuse and Neglect, directing a new ballroom program for at-risk children to enhance their self image and well being.

There is a cost for the pasta station. Residents are invited to bring their own bottles of wine to enjoy with the food. The dancing, a disc jockey and a photo booth for romantic photos is all free.

"It'll be a great chance to relax and have a good time," said Anthony Caligiure.

"We've had three other events at Leena's, including a night of jazz with singer Ella Chadwell, that attracted 125 people," said Caligiure. "I want this to be a place where people feel comfortable coming and have a good time."

For more information, call 813-643-8500.