Uber & Lyft are the two ridesharing services that have revolutionized transportation, and pissed off a lot of entrenched interests while doing so. Uber was more in the news, as the San Francisco-based service was working with local legislators to have the Hillsborough County Public Transportation drop its minimum fare of $50 for any ride in a towncar (like the “Uber Black”). But then in April, both UberX and Lyft said to hell with the rules, and began offering rides in Tampa and St. Pete, much to the consternation of local officials.
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)
