Time is running out. So are tickets!

The Ultimate Social Media Marketing Extravaganza for Small Businesses, co-sponsored by Patch and LocalShops1.com, is Thursday – with a long list of local merchants and nonprofits attending what’s sure to be an informative and fun evening on the panoramic Third Floor of the St. Petersburg Pier.

From 6-9 p.m., local experts will share power tips for promoting small business through social media – from newsletters to Facebook to blogging. 

This is a great chance to see old friends and meet new ones, with American Stage, Saturday Morning Market, Grand Kitchen & Bath, Adult Care & Respite, Sunset Appliances, and Grandma's Auto Care among the guests.

The evening will be fast-paced and fun, a chance to network, sample free appetizers from Bowled Restaurant and seize on useful advice for helping your small business.

Wine and beer will be sold, with a portion of the proceeds to benefit the Downtown Business Association in St. Petersburg. There will be free massages from Peaceful Warrior Massage, St. Petersburg.

Keynote speaker is Bowled Restaurant owner Michael Cecere, who will discuss how Facebook helped save his business. Michael will offer tips for what to do and what not do on Facebook.

Guest experts include:

• Patch Editors Linda Hersey and Cherlene Willis on how social media can drive consumers to your organization and keep loyal customers happy.
• Jon LaBudde, owner of Jonny Reno's restaurant and publisher of "Blasts From the 'Burg" e-newsletter on email marketing.
• Michele Northrup, a.k.a., Saucy Queen, founder of Intensity Academy  Gourmet Sauces, on how social media helped to grown her business.
• Ebony Grimsley, founder of Above Promotions in Tampa.
• Mo Venouziou, Vice President of LocalShops1.com.
• Blogger Gene "Doc" Webb on the power of the virtual word.

If you go

There is plenty of opportunity to ask questions and meet one-on-one with experts. Both Patch.com and LocalShops1.com will have special promotions and giveaways for business professionals.

Seating is close to sold out, but $20 admission standing room only tickets are  still available for standing room only. A couple of vendor slots still also may be available. You may register online for tickets or vendor space through LocalShops1.com.

At the door: $25 if seats are available, $20 otherwise for standing-room.