Best Of 2014

Best Political Wunderkind

This 24-year-old political powerhouse played an invaluable part in Rick Kriseman’s stunning 12-point victory last November over Bill Foster for St. Pete mayor. He’s now part of the team trying to get former Republican Governor Charlie Crist back to Tallahassee.

People & Politics

Best "I'm gonna miss that guy"

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.

Best beach

Runners-up: St. Pete Beach, Pass-A-Grille

Best beach town

Runners-up: St. Pete Beach, Treasure Island

Best bizarro local news story

Runners-up: Jill Kelley, Mystery Monkey

Best Bucs player

Runners-up: Vincent Jackson, Doug Martin

Judge Luis Garcia.
Judge Luis Garcia.

“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.

Best change in Tampa Bay since last year's Readers' Poll

Runners-up: Water Works Park, more breweries

Best city

Runners-up: Tampa, Clearwater

Best city park

Runners-up: Vinoy Park (St. Petersburg), Crescent Lake Park (St. Petersburg)