This past May, Tampa International Gay & Lesbian Film Festival Executive Director Margaret Murray led more than 100 literature (and liquor) lovers on a circuitous bike tour of the ’Burg, stopping off at a number of places near and dear to the late Beat writer and hipster icon. The marvelously educational trek benefited from great company, great weather and a great starting/ending location at local dive The Flamingo, one of Kerouac’s favorite haunts.
People & Politics
Don Zimmer was one of the few Yankee or Red Sox players that Rays fans adored, and that’s because the effervescent, super-cuddly “Zim Bear” spent 10 years on our side as a coach and advisor. Zim — who died in June at the age of 83 — got a touching tribute when Rays broadcaster Todd Kalas announced his death during a game against the Miami Marlins. “I felt like I was getting a gift every time we talked,” Kalas said as he choked back tears. “Really sad news.” Deadspin ran this video clip of his remarks.
“This court concludes that a citizen’s right to marry is a fundamental right that belongs to the individual.” Those were the words of Judge Luis Garcia of the Monroe County Circuit Court, whose July ruling was the first in a slew of similar decisions by “activist judges” that may eventually wind up toppling the state’s anti-gay marriage amendment. Fun fact to rub in the face of John Stemberger Republicans: Garcia was appointed by Republican Governor Jeb Bush.
Runners-up: Water Works Park, more breweries
Runners-up: Vinoy Park (St. Petersburg), Crescent Lake Park (St. Petersburg)
