Absurdly Expensive Pan-Roasted Veal Chops with Chipotle Lime Butter recipe
Have you ever been in a situation where you wrongly assumed something, then realized your mistake in front of a bunch of people and were too embarrassed to say anything? I have, and it can be a sticky wicket, indeed! Let me tell you what happened to me the other day. I found myself downtown…
On the Radar: Art of Fashion
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. This weekend, the Leepa-Rattner Museum fuses the worlds of art and fashion, begging the question — do you drool at the sight of a sexy pair of Manolo Blahnik shoes? Do you refer to Vogue as The Bible? Do…
Review of The Age Of Stupid: A docu-drama about climate change and our possible future
[Tampa, FL- Sept.21, 2009] Tonight I attended the global premiere of the film The Age of Stupid. I was invited to this event by my friend Ingrid Esteves, a French national who doesn’t understand how the U.S. could back out of the Kyoto Treaty, or why we’d want to be as stupid as Napoleon and start…
Marvel’s X-Men square off against allegorical Proposition 8
Marvel Comics has always been known for its human touch – for its focus on continuity before capes. Spider-Man wasn't born of Krypton, but Queens: your average boy next door. The Fantastic Four were fantastic, yes, but a family first. Before getting his act together, Tony Stark, Iron Man, drank more than my dad on…
Howdy new co-worker! How about some sex?
It stands to reason that at some point in our lives, we are going to have to deal with the, "sex/relationship with a co-worker" situation. As it stands, most of us spend more time at the office than anywhere else. It's a great dating pool, as long as you ignore every rule of human resources…
Tampa Bay Food, wine and beer events
Tuesday, September 22: The NoHo Bistro Harvest Wine Dinner. Underdog Wines are paired with each of the meal’s five courses, which include crudites and red pepper aioli, seared scallops with cauliflower puree, a green salad with sweet potato crisps, a duet of veal or a vegetarian option of polenta and wild mushrooom torta, and cardamom-buttermilk…
CD Review/Concert Preview: Islands, Vapours (the Montreal ensemble plays the Ritz next Monday)
Montreal rock ensemble Islands made an indie splash in ’06 with their breezy, mellifluous popadelic debut, Return to the Sea. The adventurous and progressive second effort, Arm’s Way, followed on a wave of dramatic symphonics in ’08. The third, Vapours (out Sept. 22, today, on Anti-), finds the band moving in a New Wave-wheeling and…
Lack of rack: Why does running make for smaller breasts?
Attention who run for fun or sport: There is a serious epidemic* occurring which could be personally affecting you. It's called "Runner Boob Loss." Queue scary music. Since you began running has your cup failed to runneth over? As your training progressed did you find that your chest, or chest plate rather, resembles that of…
Break-Up Bars Are Sweet Revenge, with recipe
Few things in life are certain. We’re born. We die. And somewhere in between the two, we all get our hearts broken at least once. There’s no escaping it. It’s as inevitable as the rising and the setting of the sun. This is the risk we take for that giddy, glorious feeling of being in…
Experiment with Yoga to balance your body, mind and soul
The study of yoga was first brought to the Western world by Paramahansa Yogananda as a way of spreading enlightenment. He popularized yoga and meditation through his autobiography, “Autobiography of a Yogi” which was first published in 1946. This ancient tradition offers many esoteric and physical benefits with regular practice. Some of the physical benefits…
Do It Today: Ask This Old House, ladies night out, community conversation on Latino education
If Tim "The Tool Man" Taylor were a real dude (and not so accident prone), he'd be totally jealous of PBS' ultimate "home improvement" guys on This Old House. Today, proud DIY-ers (and those looking to save a few bucks on contracting fees) can Ask This Old House, which makes a house call at a…
On the Radar: Record Remix Art Party and Live After Dark
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. This weekend brings us two nifty art events. Before you fret about which one to attend and start flipping coins, hold your horses — you won't have to forsake any of our rad local art, because you can spin…
Sex with strangers: am I really that strange?
Who has sex with strangers? I think the answer to that question is most of you. Whether you are a swinger, single person, or a perpetual cheater it is likely you have had sex with someone you may consider stranger. So why do so many people think the swinging lifestyle is so strange – because we…
On the Radar: Black Box Film Festival
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. This Thursday marks the beginning of the University of Tampa Film Society's Black Box Film Festival, a showcase of the year's best student-directed films complete with a plethora of panel discussions and workshops with film industry professionals from across…
“Godfather of neoconservatism” Irving Kristol dies
This past friday, the "godfather of neoconservatism" Irving Kristol died after complications with lung cancer. He was 89. As a writer and editor, Kristol's ideas had a profound affect on American politics and ideological identities, influencing major political figures such as George W. Bush. Coined by notable socialist Michael Harrington, the term "neoconservatism" referred to…
Fetish duo, Stryker Vawn, does Ybor (pics NSFW)
The XXX fetish tag-team from Austin, Texas, took a break from whipping and prodding each other on stage to bare it all for Creative Loafing. -How would you describe a Stryker Vawn performance? 2 parts burlesque, finely chopped 1 part Vaudeville, peeled and pressed 6 parts perversion, stewed in sex butter 3 parts fantasy, drizzled…
Tampa Bay solar homes tour – Saturday, October 3
We all want to save money on energy and utility bills during this time when money is tight. Some people have the misconception that going 'green' and putting energy efficient installations in their home can be expensive, but it's quite the contrary. Why not learn how these solar powered/energy efficient components work and see them…
It Happened This Week-ish: We lost The Swayze, The Emmys, Audrina Patridge does laundry naked, Ben and Zooey’s hipster bliss and more
*Patrick Swayze was the next victim of Death's War on Hollywood 2009 Edition. This makes me sad because this one time I swam in the lake where they shot Dirty Dancing. So yeah, basically he was like a father to me and I am awaiting my flowers and sympathy cards. Sidenote: I like daisies. *Jessica…
The six dollar boob grab
Much as the Cat in the Hat had Thing 1 and Thing 2 to keep him entertained on rainy days, I have Boob 1 and Boob 2. Most times, in the privacy of my own home, they don't do a whole hell of a lot for me. They get in the way, I spill things…
Best Indie Concert: of Montreal @ The Ritz Ybor
: "Of Montreal put on a stage show that was an aural and visual hallucination brought to dazzling life. The six-member band played against a huge backdrop of vivid, psychedelic animations and under washes of saturated lights. Two sets of drums were mounted on risers on either side of the stage and a revolving screen…
Grilled Shrimp with Roasted Red Pepper Aioli recipe
The summer in San Francisco arrives late, in September and October, as the days get longer and the cold bay breezes subside. While the East coast is planning for fall, we sit in our city and soak in the rare sunshine that has been so graciously bestowed upon us, knowing that November brings fall and…
Do It Today: Political Roundtable at CL, career fair, The Age of Stupid
CL hosts "A National Dialogue: America In the World," an open political roundtable about the "use and purpose of American power," in conjunction with the Patel Center for Global Solutions at USF. Topics include the U.S.'s true nati0nal interests, the goals we do and should have for the world, and how world events influence you…
Most Improved Venue: The Ritz Ybor
When the former Masquerade got a $2 million makeover and re-opened as The Ritz last June, it didn’t seem like many shows were making it to the marquee and some of us wondered whether the booking folks set the bar too high in their selections or if the 1,000-capacity place had become a bit too…
Best Tampa Chain That’s Actually About Tampa: The Floridian
There’s only one of Harold Seltzer’s (of Sam Seltzer fame) new Cuban sandwich chain concept, but it’s already good enough — and authentic enough — to put Tampa’s handheld icon on the map the way Outback popularized Australia’s traditional deep-fried whole onion. 4424 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813-287-6662, finestcubansandwich.com.
The Green Community week in review: Hillsborough County’s $7.6 mil energy grant, USDA’s new local food program, upcoming sustainability roundtable and more
What’s the buzz on the latest issues in the Green Community? Check out what you may have missed this last week: Hillsborough County receives $7.6 million federal energy efficiency grant- The county plans to use these funds to undertake energy efficiency and conservation projects on its facilities and vehicles. The pursuit of sustainable happiness- Sustainability…
Baby boomers banging again: 4 ways to have sex
Sometimes when I hear a person say, “having sex,” I start to wonder what kind of sex? When I was growing up, "having sex," meant sexual intercourse involving the penis and vagina. Doggy style was considered kinky. Today I find that most of my peers are willing to experiment with different kinds of sex, especially…
Best Restaurant You Might Forget About: Primi Urban Cafe
Really, just take the time to step a half-block off your downtown St. Pete Central Avenue restaurant crawl and you’ll find, or rediscover, one of the best restaurants in the Bay area. Primi’s inexpensive, classic Italian cuisine — filtered through the South African heritage of owners Arno and Irene Von Waltsleben — is simple stuff,…
Best New Restaurant: Z Grille
Although chef/owner Zack Gross has dished up fine food at Z Grille for years, this year saw such a quantum shift in the downtown St. Pete restaurant that it deserves rookie status. First, a move down the street and around the corner to beautiful digs in the Signature Place building, where artful interpretations of Gross’…
Fruity Nutty Chicken Salad recipe
I have a confession to make. I don’t like chicken breast. I especially dislike the boneless, skinless kind. Scandalous, I know, but despite its popularity in our culinary culture, I’ve just never taken to it. I know chicken breast is a healthier, low-fat option, but I don’t really care. It is ubiquitous and boring and…
Best Prog Rockers: Mogul Street Reserve
Made up of Ryan Wood (guitars/vocals), Jack Pfiester (bass/vocals) and Byron Clark (drums/vocals), this prog rock trio produces spirited, accessible, hot-jamming prog rock with lots of good clean shredding by Wood and Pfiester, a surprise since it’s not often you see a bassist traveling up and down the neck of his instrument and coaxing out…
Grab a free copy of Tales of Monkey Island for Talk Like a Pirate Day!
Yarr, mateys! It be Talk like a pirate day, in case ye not be knowin'. To give ye some fun on this day o' international piracy, LucasArts and Telltale Games be offerin' up the first episode in their new restart of Tales of Monkey Island. All you need to do to pick up your free…
Best Unsung Chef: David Miller
He’s been profiled in Southern Living, garnered the highest Zagat food rating in the Bay area, and owns three restaurants and a chocolate-making facility. But have you ever heard of David Miller? He is a humble culinary wunderkind still in his 20s who produces exceptionally beautiful and tasty fare at his high-end prix-fixe Savant Fine…
Theater review: Fascinating “Jails, Hospitals & Hip-Hop”
Actor/writer/performance artist Danny Hoch has made it his personal mission to bring an unusual type of character to the live stage. This character usually shows up only in the margins of dramatic literature: he may be a criminal or a drug addict or physically or mentally damaged. He may be a white kid who wishes…
On the Radar: Sex advice columnist Dan Savage at USF
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. Next Wednesday, everyone's favorite gay, straight-talkin', potty-mouthed sex advice columnist, Dan Savage, visits USF Tampa as part of the University Lecture Series. Bring your hammer: it's time to put another nail "Dear Abby's" coffin. Amid the rumors that his…
What NFL and NCAA football games to watch this weekend
Back by popular demand, sportschump.net has once again decided to preview the weekend’s most important match-ups. For those of you who don’t eat, drink and sleep SportsCenter, here’s what you should be watching this weekend. (10) Boise State at Fresno State – (Friday, 9:00 pm – ESPN – BSU minus 7.5) The Boise State Broncos…
Restaurant Preview: Ella’s Americana Folk Art Cafe
Yea, so Ella's opened last Friday and no one should really be judging any restaurant at this point. But I couldn't help myself. As a resident of "The Heights", my yearning for new food in my 'hood bubbled over. And after months of anticipation, watching the building go up (they bulldozed an existing structure and…
A Meditation-Spin class
Let’s get one thing straight: I don’t like spin classes. Five years ago, when I was in college, a sorority sister of mine was a spinning instructor. She suggested I attend her class one afternoon. Being the naïve individual I was at the time, I took my young, skinny body to this class thinking it…
Top Chef Las Vegas Podcast, Ep. 5: Campfire cuisine, Tim Love’s poker face, and we say ‘au revoir’ to Frenchy
This week, we're back in the Champagne Room (aka: the podcast bunker) to rag on episode 5 of the new season on Top Chef. I have to say that I really enjoyed the theme of this episode, cowboy/ranch-themed cookery, and that the Quickfire and Elimination Challenges went along with the main theme. I do wish, though,…
The Wizard of Oz 70th Anniversary Hi-Def Event — one night only!
When was the last time you visited the Land of Oz? Awhile? And when did you last see it in stunning High Definition, in theaters no less. That's right, never. On September 23rd at 7pm you'll have your first opportunity to do just that. Check out the press release below: NCM Fathom, Warner Home Video and…
This weekend’s best bets in Bay area music: Sara Haze, Great White, Damon Fowler Group and more!
A quick breakdown of this holiday weekend’s most worthy concerts. For a more comprehensive schedule, check out our Upcoming Events page. FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 18 /The Tenant/The Tape Delay Cincinnati indie trio Slow Claw doses their alt rock with dulcet-toned melodies and unexpectedly complex arrangements, proggy in an appealing and accessible sort of way. Slow Claw…
Best Steakhouse: Council Oak
The meat at Council Oak — stacked in a gigantic, glass-walled room in the foyer — is prime, aged and exquisite. Here, though, that’s just a starting point. The rest of the food, from subtle, brothy soups to classic steakhouse sides, easily competes with the finest non-steakhouse restaurants. And once you navigate past the obstacle…
Did you just cock block yourself?
Women have it easy. They can go out and get laid nearly effortlessly, but men on the other hand aren't quite so lucky. Even the male half of a swinging couple must put forth the effort to catch the eye of a pretty lady or the hottie soccer mom at a party. Vanillas (non swingers) may…
Project Runway Recap: liar liar newspaper dress on fire
The designers apartments may be getting a bit more empty but there are still a few who need to be auf'ed, ASAP. So let's get rid of another one, shall we? It's the newspaper challenge and this whole episode watches a lot like a bad gossip column: Sex, Lies and Bitchiness. Okay, no sex, but…
Area colleges to discuss sustainability at roundtable on Wednesday, September 23
How are academic institutions meeting the challenge to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and reduce their carbon footprint? What are the strategies that they are using to become more "green," less wasteful, and more energy efficient? Colleges and universities across the country are exercising leadership in their communities by modeling ways to eliminate global warming emissions,…
Best New (Hip) Band: Blind Man’s Colour
Given props by Kanye West and Grizzly Bear’s Ed Droste in January, featured on NPR this past August, Blind Man’s Colour is the new hip unknown and they happen to hail from right here in St. Petersburg. Co-visionaries Kyle Wyss (guitar and lead vocals) and Orhan Chettri (keys, laptop and back-up vocals, both pictured at…
Gossip Girl Season Three Premiere Recap: OMFGG
"Welcome back Upper East Siders. After a long hot summer away, I see it didn't take you long to dirty up the clean slates I gave you. My inbox is overflowing, so let's get to the good stuff, shall we?" – Gossip Girl OMFGG, Gossip Girl Season Three give us plenty of scandal, sex, and…
Top ten unnecessary costs to Hillsborough taxpayers
This is the first year I have really followed the county budget. While I have a lot of concerns about how politicians spend tax dollars I narrowed it down to the top ten for Thursday night's final budget hearing. This is the message I delivered to the County Commission regarding my picks for wasting tax…
Chicago ranks number one in the US for most ‘green’ buildings
According to figures from the U.S. Green Building Council, Chicago has the most certified green buildings then any other city in the country. That must be hundreds right? Not really. The council reports that 88 projects in Chicago have earned Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification. Still, that isn't too shabby especially since it was reported that…
Do It This Weekend: Jails, Hospitals and Hip-Hop, coastal clean up, Fences, Hippie Hop, Grapefather, and more
HCC’s Visual and Performing Arts Series presents Danny Hoch’s (pictured) critically acclaimed one-man show, Jails, Hospitals and Hip-Hop — with a twist. Accompanying lone actor Curtis Belz’s eight monologue characterizations – which include Flip, a good ol’ boy from the Midwest who has come to identify with urban hip-hoppers; Bronx, a sidewalk vendor who gets…
On the Radar: Industrial Strength Chili Cookoff
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. Next weekend brings something to heat up those chili, er, chilly autumn nights — the first ever Industrial Arts Center Chili Cookoff. Hey, hot shot — think you have what it takes to make an award-winning chili? Then whip…
Best Concert: David Byrne @ Tampa Theatre
Clad in all white, white hair standing on end, Byrne led a seven-piece ensemble (three back-up singers, a percussionist, a drummer, a bassist and a keyboardist/programmer, also all clad in white) through a concert of songs from his latest Eno collaboration, Everything that Happens Will Happen Today, as well as older crowd-pleasing cuts – “Houses…
Minestra Maritata (Italian Wedding Soup), with recipe
When most people think of Italian Wedding Soup, they understandably associate it with weddings. Sounds logical, right? Well, what if I told you that this popular Italian dish has nothing to do with weddings at all? Yes, it’s true. Before you scoff, let me explain.
Pavement to reunite, tour in 2010
After a few weeks of rumors and innuendo, we have official confirmaiton that '90s indie rock band and lo-fi pioneers Pavement will reunite and tour next year. Matador, the band's record label, announced it all in a blog post this morning: "Mark Ibold, Scott 'Spiral Stairs' Kannberg, Stephen Malkmus, Bob Nastanovich and Steve West [are]…
Best Reunion Show: Ghetto Love Sugar @ Yeoman’s Road Pub (video)
Ghetto Love Sugar, a local experimental jazz jam outfit that enjoyed its heydey several years ago and played their last gig in ‘03, re-banded for a show on Friday, May 8, when drummer/percussionist Jon Priest – who’d re-located from Tampa to Boone, N.C. a few years ago – returned for a weekend of performing. That…
TUF 10 premiere ends with a two-round blood bath
The premiere of The Ultimate Fighter (TUF) season 10 on Spike TV last night left much to be desired for mixed martial arts (MMA) fans around the world. In the first and only preliminary bout of the night, Jon Madsen (1-0) pummeled Abe Wagner (6-1) for three long and bloody rounds while Wagner did absolutely…
Weird green video film festival
's Green site is hosting a Weird Green Film Festival, showcasing the craziest, funniest, most interesting (to say the least) green-related short films. You can go on their site to vote for your favorites or get creative and submit your own. You want to do good. You really do. You want to feel like you’re making a…
New music: A Fine Frenzy, A Bomb in a Birdcage
I think I'm obsessed with lady songwriters who play piano and sing really, really well. That's how I came to find one of my all time favorite artists, A Fine Frenzy (Alison Sudol). I distinctly remember going to Starbucks one day back in August of '07 and getting a free download of "Almost Lover" with…
First Look: Origami Sushi’s new location in Tampa
Great sushi- now closer to home (for me, anyway). I was introduced to Origami’s Hillsborough Avenue location about a year ago. They have a new location on Waters Avenue and a recent move to a new residence put me dangerously close to this location. There’s a huge selection of makimono, my favorite being
Interview with Director of Jobsite Theater’s And Baby Makes Seven, Karla Hartley
Actor, director and lighting designer, Karla Hartley has got to be one of the most versatile theater people in the Tampa Bay Area. She has directed such widely divergent plays as The Crucible and Psycho Beach Party, and she has designed and stage managed shows from such far-reaching locations as the Kennedy Center in Washington…
Be a credit to your kink 3: MTV shocks me
In April I wrote about a casting call MTV put out for their True Life series. The topic: Polyamory. Like many poly folk, I was concerned (and curious) about how MTV would portray polyamory. I predicted that MTV would focus more on the fighting, jealousy, and negative aspects of polyamory with perhaps a minuet mention…
New music video: Whitney Houston, “Million Dollar Bill”
Soul pop diva/former Bobby Brown punching bag Whitney Houston has been making a slow but steady comeback this year, re-building her tattered cracked-out image with the seeming normalcy of getting her life and career back on track, earning self-respect one sexy dress and public appearance at a time, and keeping us interested with the occasional…
Green Community Calendar weekend events: PARK(ing) Day, green markets, raw foods workshop, and more
Looking for something green-related to do this weekend? Look no further than our own Green Community Calendar. PARK(ing) Day- Friday, September 18th, 10 am-6 pm. Mini-parks will be sprouting up in parking spaces in Downtown Tampa as part of PARK(ing) Day – an annual global event where parking spaces are transformed into parks for the day. These…
The Stinky Drinkers encounter insult and injury…
(The Stinky Drinkers are a band of merry runners in training for the Women's Running Magazine Women's Half Marathon in St. Pete, November 22nd. Join them on Tuesday nights at St. Pete's Push Lounge for Stinky Drinker movie nights through September.) The past couple of weeks have been interesting for the members of the Stinky…
Best Alt Rock Duo: GreyMarket
Two smartly-dressed, energetic guys — Cave McCoy on lead vocals, guitar and pedals (left), and Michael Gargiulo on drums, laptop and backup vocals (right), and — make more rock-your-face-off noise than I’ve heard bands with twice the amount of members, and they even have a quaint little light show to go with it. (Photo by…
Why Bing trumps Google when searching for nude celebs (NSFW)
I admit to anyone who asks that I have a mild obsession with celebrity nudity. I also have a major aversion to paying for it. So part of my daily Web routine involves regular visit to some free celeb nude sites like Egotastic, Nudography, and Babes of Babylon. The pics are free, at least when…
HR 1207: Will Ron Paul’s House bill spell the end of the Federal Reserve System?
By Al Coryell PoHo correspondent In Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 of this series of articles we have learned that, at present, there are two important competing economic philosophies. There is the Keynesian philosophy, practiced by the Federal Reserve, which purports to centrally control economic stability through price and monetary manipulation — and…
On the Radar: The Age of Stupid
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. Next Monday, you can check out The Age of Stupid, an eco docu-drama directed by Franny Armstrong (McLibel, Drowned Out). It's shown as a "first of it's kind" worldwide event — simulcast live from a solar tent in New…
Do It Today: Warped Tour at the theater, Devil’s Backbone at the Dali, coffee and art at DFAC, Sunny premiere party in Tampa
If you thought Warped Tour was over, think again. For one night only, movie theaters across America screen the Vans Warped Tour 15th Anniversary Celebration, a two-hour tribute to the beloved music fest and its talented artists. Warped Tour is often associated with punk music and culture, but this showcases the diverse bands that have…
Best Outdoor Filmfest: Sunset Film Festival
Outdoor movie screenings are a popular Tampa Bay pasttime, but until recently your choices were pretty much limited to family fare in public parks or the time-warped charms of Fun-Lan Drive-In. But this summer The Studio@620 and Push Ultra Lounge came up with an inspired new variation, the Sunset Film Festival: sophisticated programming of can’t-miss…
Iorio appoints Tampa’s first woman, first openly lesbian police chief
Special Report by Mike Wells for Creative Loafing Tampa native Jane Castor humbly accepted an appointment today from Mayor Pam Iorio to become the city’s next police chief. The 6-foot, lanky mother of two will be the first woman to command the Tampa Police Department when she is sworn in on Oct. 1. She also…
Write it right: sex
So you’ve decided to write a novel and you come to the question of sex. I’ve discussed how I feel about writing young adult, but what about everything else? Sex and romance come in all shapes and sizes…and genres. You don’t have to be writing for Harlequin to include some steamy scenes in your prose.…
Tonight at Tampa Pitcher Show: James Brown Film Festival (video)
hosts another one of its fundraising film events, this one a James Brown film spectacular held at the food and alcohol-serving Tampa Pitcher Show. The evening kicks off with The Night James Brown Saved Boston, which documents the funk father's legendary performance on April 5, 1968, at Boston Gardens, the evening after the assassination of…
Best Fusionists: Poetry n’ Lotion
The heavy drive of metal, the old-timey bounciness of swing jazz and groovin’ slinkiness of funk jazz, the organic backporch feel of roots, the swagger of ’70s prog rock, the easy-going sway of reggae – all these elements and more are thrown into the fusion fabulous sound of Poetry n’ Lotion, a mostly instrumental fourpiece…
Game Review: Batman Arkham Asylum – The Best Batman Game Ever
The best game I've played all year. Go buy it now. There have been a lot of super hero games (I myself helped make one), and there have been even more games based on licensed properties. Most of them have been bad, disappointing, or insulting in some combination. Batman Arkham Asylum is great, totally satisfying,…
Must-see shows this Saturday: Truckstop Coffee at New World, Joe Buck at the Emerald
Oh, Tampa/St. Pete. Please, please, please don't let me down. The DJ and his records and that theme night at [insert club here] will all be there next weekend, and every monotonous weekend thereafter, but Truckstop Coffee and Joe Buck are only gonna be here this weekend. Get out and see a show… TRUCKSTOP COFFEE…
Wednesday-music.com profile: Grizzly Bear
Brooklyn based Grizzly Bear is made up of Daniel Rossen (songwriting/guitar), Ed Droste (songwriting/guitar), Chris Taylor (bass/woodwinds/electronics/vocals) and Christopher Bear (drums/vocals). All four members of the acid-folk/neo-psychedelic lo-fi quintet contribute vocals. Grizzly Bear connected while students at New York University. During freshman year, Daniel met Chris Taylor in the dorm. Sophomore year, Chris Taylor met…
What’s hot in ‘green’: Solar-powered gadgets
If you’re looking for a simple, fun way to save money on the little things you use every day, consider solar powered gadgets. These also make really great gifts you can give to friends or family members. Electronic gadgets all need a power supply in order to work the devices, so why not go solar-powered?…
Open political roundtable held at CL this Monday, Sept. 21
This Monday, September 21, Creative Loafing will be hosting a political roundtable here at our office. It is free to attend and open to the public. We will be recording the event and serving light refreshments. More information below, hope to see you there! The Patel Center for Global Solutions at USF and Creative Loafing…
USDA’s new “Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food” program promises local food money and “tactical teams” in schools (w/video)
Yesterday, the USDA announced a new initiative — called "Know Your Farmer, Know Your Food" — aimed at linking consumers with local agricultural products. The organization said that there'd be $65 million in funding for the program announced within the next week. Impressive? Sure, but keep that number in perspective. The USDA's 2010 budget will…
Sexual identity dream
Dream Momma, “Okay, so I am dating this girl which I am a female.. .and I've also dated her cousin. Who is a guy. He calls and talks to her but asks for me at first. Is it to hear my voice?…now I've let go of him other than as a friends because of dating…
It Happened this Week-ish: Megan Fox is kind of bitchy, Nicole Richie’s baby bird, Ellen is the new Paula, the VMAs on Twitter and more
*Kate Gosselin has been offered $400,000 to pose for Playboy. I propose that Hugh takes that money and offers it to Jon Gosselin to never speak in public ever again. I think it is time that Playboy does something good for the world and this is a win-win…because no one wants to see a mother…
The amazing disappearing finger trick
Hey guys, guess what? We masturbate too. It seems that lately anytime I am with a group of friends and the topic of masturbation and methodologies is broached, voices become hushed, giggles escape with each breath, and the clitoris of every nearby woman seems to perk up and listen. Why is it that for CENTURIES…
Tampa Bay food, wine and beer events
Wednesday, September 16: Whole Foods Cheese Course Erik Woody leads this tasting of French cheeses. Contact sherell.white@wholefoods.com to register. Free. 6:30-7:30 p.m., 1548 N. Dale Mabry Hwy., Tampa (813-874-9724) Wednesday, September 16: The NoHo Bistro A Palette for Your Palate. The bistro’s ingenious culinary team pairs five tapas tastings with a new wine each week.…
Island Cassava Pone (sweet treat of tropics) recipe
Wanderer of ages. There was a time when I dragged my car across the country, life in back pocket, convinced the next great thing lay under one of those rocks out there. My adventures took me far and wide, hemmed in only by this country's borders and the limits of my own imagination. At the…
Best of the Bay 2009: Julie Rowe wins a double
Isn't it nice when the readers and critics agree? Last night, Julie Rowe (right) won the Best Local Actress award in Creative Loafing's 2009 Readers' Poll (repeating her win from last year). She also won the Best Actress award from theater critic Mark E. Leib. Bittersweet, perhaps, since she's just begun a new job in…
Tankless water heaters – compact and energy efficient
In the era of ever increasing utility bills and shrinking storage space, tankless water heaters seem to be all the rage. Let's take a minute to discuss the benefits and disadvantages of going tankless. Conventional water heaters require a great amount of time and energy to warm. Tankless water heaters provide instant, unlimited access to…
Best of the Bay 2009: And the winners are…
It's safe to say the CL offices have never been as crowded as they were last night, when 400-plus folks squeezed into our cube farm for the Best of the Bay Awards Party, aka The Loafies. We'll be reporting on the various awards throughout the coming week online (and in our Best of the Bay…
The High Holy Days are upon us, Heebs. Ante up.
By Catherine Durkin Robinson PoHo contributor Catherine Durkin Robinson is a handful creating quite a scene over at Out in Left Field. Every year before Rosh Hashanah, synagogues send tickets to members for High Holy Day services. Non-members in the Tampa Bay area usually pay around $200. That's right. Local Jews pay that kind of…
On the Radar: August Wilson’s Fences at American Stage
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. This weekend marks the return of American Stage's August Wilson series, the third in a ten-year commitment to producing each of the acclaimed African-American playwright's major works. (Check out what CL theater critic Mark Leib thought of the first…
Do It Today: Leading Ladies, Global Lens Film Series
Leading Ladies is sort of like Some Like It Hot for the theater world — a funny farce that follows Jack and Leo, two down-on-their-luck Shakespearean actors who resort to cross-dressing in an attempt to swindle a little old lady out of her fortune, with a mix-up of romantic entanglements along the way! Visit franciswilsonplayhouse.org…
It finally happened: robotic sex dolls (pics NSFW)
German company First Androids has created the ultimate sex doll. According to the latest issue of H+ magazine, these sex droids "can hold multiple sex positions, be ordered to simulate breathing, perform oral sex acts, have a pulse, be equipped with a g-spot that responds to orgasm, and much, much more." It's the future, folks!…
HOT MMA News: Be part of an MMA movie on Oct.17
The Guzzo Bros. Film company is producing the mixed martial arts (MMA) movie Caged Dreams in association with the Tampa MMA promoter, Xtreme Fighting Championships (XFC) and American Top Team trainers, and needs extras on Oct.17.
What’s your gym personality? Try techie junkie, awkward starer, miss chatterbox and more
Lately, I haven’t been sleeping very well. Friends and family tell me that it is because I am living alone for the first time in my life. Perhaps this is true but what I’ve discovered from my newly poor sleeping habits is my appreciation of dawn. On the few nights when I grow tired, I’ll…
Best Neo-Jazz Outfit: Jim Morey Band
Trumpeter/warm drawling vocalist Jim Morey leads this capable quartet featuring bassist Ann Van Atta, banjo player David Crisler, and drummer Billy Carr (all four of them also current members of Lounge Cat). The band offers a fresh take on old jazz using swing and muddy river Creole as their foundation, incorporating elements of gypsy, ragtime…
The race for the bottom: Who will win Readers’ Poll for Worst Local Politician?
You can only find out by reading Best of the Bay when it's published Sept. 16 — or by attending tonight's Best of the Bay Awards Party, aka The Loafies. It's a tough category to predict because, well, there were so many deserving candidates. Readers named a whole slew of 'em. Among those nominated: "All…
Album review: The Stone Roses, The Stone Roses (20th Anniversary Edition)
In 2006, writers for the English music magazine NME voted 1989’s The Stone Roses the “greatest British album of all time.” I would not go that far. But I will assert this: Anyone who aspires to a rock music collection considered definitive should make unequivocally sure that the Manchester, England band’s debut album is part…
Meet Peaches: our newest sex and love voice
In the 80’s I did some things I'm not proud of, one of which was having sex with a married man. Yeah it was fun and he gave me money and lots of things, but eventually my morals kicked in and I broke it off. This guy had a horrible sex life with his wife…
Who will win a Loafie? Find out tonight at the Best of the Bay Awards party
On September 16, Creative Loafing releases The Best of the Bay , the annual blockbuster issue in which CL readers, writers and editors celebrate the highs (and the lows) of life in Tampa Bay. But if you can't wait till Wednesday, you can get a sneak peek of the results tonight at the Best of…
Recommended New Music for the Week of September 15 (Karl Denson, Muse, Avett Brothers and many others!)
CDs: Big Star – Keep an Eye on the Sky 4xCD This four-disc collection spanning 1968-1975 offers a trove of unreleased demos, unused mixes, alternate versions of songs, and a 1973 concert recorded in Memphis. The lavish packaging includes extensive liner notes, rare and never-before-seen photos, and insightful essays about the cult of Big Star…
Downtown Tampa parking spots transform into mini parks for PARK(ing) Day this Friday
Downtown Tampa is going green this Friday by participating in the national event, PARK(ing) Day, where ordinary parking spaces are transformed into mini "parks". Yes, you may be thinking, "Isn't parking there bad enough already?", "Where am I going to park?" Well, the purpose for this event is to get people to not drive their…
Pollo Tropical gives away free chicken again
Wear yellow from head to toe and cluck like a chicken for a free 1/4 chicken value meal at Pollo Tropical today, September 15. Why? Just because. I have to give kudos to this chicken chain for their constant and unrelenting free-food promotions. Finally, they're rewarding the small percentage of people who look good in…
Help save Cone Ranch from our County Commission (attend ELAPP meeting Sept 15th)
Welcome to another edition of "Can Hillsborough County Commissioners successfully preserve 'preserved' land?" Which, as it has unfolded, has actually turned into "Can Hillsborough County citizens successfully save publicly owned preserved land from the Hillsborough County Commission?" Photo Credit: MariellaSmith at Flickr.com
The Godfather Feast, part one
She had never seen the Godfather. So I made her a meal she couldn’t refuse. When Steebo told me that she had never seen the Godfather, I felt a dinner coming on. I had always liked the first two Godfather films, but I found a new appreciation for them upon reading a fascinating article in…
Heroes and Heroines dive into St. Petersburg’s ARTpool
Paula Abdul and regret. Ellen DeGeneres and opportunity. Kanye West and unwarranted opinion. Beyonce and PR. Peanut butter and jelly. Jelly and John Goodman. Some things just go together – like vintage clothing and artwork. Don't believe me? Just ask those in attendance of St. Pete's ARTpool's monthly gallery opening, Heroes & Heroines. Or any…
Closet masturbation: the key to my heart
I believe the saying goes 'everyone masturbates'. I have to admit that I was in my late 20s before I discovered the beauty of self pleasure. Since that time I turned into a closet masturbator. No, this doesn't mean that I pretend that I don't; it simply means I masturbate in the closet. This may…
Concert review: Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band at Ford Amphitheatre (with setlist + photo gallery)
All photos by Tracy May. Bruce Springsteen is not a God. He’s not a hero. He's gone so far as to refer to that sort of misplaced adulation in his 1992 self-mocking “Local Hero,” a song where he jokingly refers to seeing himself depicted on a black velvet painting between other works of art that…
Richard Blais on Top Chef Las Vegas: Second Helpings – Oh Brother!
This week’s Top Chef certainly clarified that the cast’s brothers, Bryan and Michael Voltaggio, are more than just a slick casting call exploited by the show to infuse more drama. Of course, if they were gay, well, that would have been network gold, I’m sure! Happily though, they are short on controversy and big on…
Concert announcements: Vivian Girls, The Bravery, KISS, Natalie Cole, Jackson Browne, and more!
Mark your calendars — the latest batch of concert announcements has arrived. For a more comprehensive list that includes both local and national acts, check out our Upcoming Concerts page. Thursday, October 1: Third Eye Blind (The Ritz Ybor, Ybor City, $28.50; on sale now) Friday, October 9: Luke Bryan (Dallas Bull, Tampa, $15 admission…
The pursuit of sustainable happiness
‘There can be no real Happiness until the soul finds its Peace. “ Dadi Janki Administrative Head, Brahma Kumaris Everyone in the world I know is either in the pursuit of peace or happiness or both. Welcome to my blog, dear readers, which is going to be all about: . . . in…
Lightning training camp event today— 9-15
While the Rays are wrapping up their season and the Buccaneers kicked off their year this past Sunday, another pro team is gearing up for another year. The Tampa Bay Lightning has opened its training camp, and that means freebies for fans.
Do It Today: The Loafies, and some other stuff that is less exciting than CL’s awards show
The Loafies — our annual celebration in honor of the Best of the Bay issue — are your chance to meet the winners and mingle with the tastemakers of Tampa Bay at our homecoming/house party/awards show (no word on whether Kanye's gonna ruin my award presentation). Come out for food, fashion, drink, dancing and more,…
On the Radar: Jails, Hospitals and Hip-Hop in Ybor
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. This weekend, HCC’s Visual and Performing Arts Series presents a limited run of playwright Danny Hoch's (pictured) acclaimed one-man show, Jails, Hospitals and Hip-Hop — with a twist. Accompanying lone actor Curtis Belz’s eight monologue characterizations – which include…
CD review: Yonder Mountain String Band, The Show (video)
Last month, Yonder Mountain Stringband released, The Show, their 10th studio album and the first on their own Frog Pad label. Normally I don't write bad reviews, but when you take on an assignment for Creative Loafing, they expect you to write about the album regardless of whether you like it or not and the…
Patrick Swayze dead at 57
Patrick Swayze, star of hit films like Ghost and Dirty Dancing, died Monday, September 14 after a drawn-out struggle with pancreatic cancer. Swayze first became a superstar after 1987's Dirty Dancing. He followed it just two years later with the barroom action-adventure stomper, Road House, and the Academy Award-winning Ghost in 1990. He also starred…
My so-called pregnancy: an abortion story (part three)
Here is the final portion of a story about my recent abortion. If you missed the last part, please read it here. It left off with my walking into the Planned Parenthood office. I signed in, then sat for about ten minutes, reading Tom Robbins' Even Cowgirls Get The Blues. When they called me, I…
Concert review: WMNF 30th Birthday Bash at the Ritz (Paul Thorn, Amanda Shires and others, with lots of pics).
All photos by Sam Goresh. WMNF celebrated its 30th birthday in a big way this past Saturday September 12, at the Ritz Ybor. My mission, and I chose to accept it, was three rooms, 12 bands, and about six hours worth of music: GO! The schedule included a line-up of amazing talent and I wanted…
8 tips for dating younger women
I've spoken with many women about their experiences dating older men. After repeatedly hearing the same pros and cons, I decided to compile a list of tips for men who would like to successfully date younger women. You're welcome. 1) Don’t make a big deal about the age difference. You can’t completely avoid the discussion, but…
Photo review: Vasti, Acho Brother & Chris Tolan
And now for something completely different … An anomalous evening of music was presented by ThxMgmt at New World Brewery featuring Orlando's Vasti, and Tampa's Acho Brother and Chris Tolan this past Saturday, September 12.
Photo review: Pet Shop Boys at Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center
Here are some pics of British electro music duo Pet Shop Boys from their show at Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center's Carol Morsani Hall last Thursday, September 10. Neil Tennant; check out the full gallery after the jump.
Restaurant News Round-up: The Table, Ella’s Columbia, OktoBEERfest, Grattzi’s, Macchia
The Table is in the midst of another shake-up, with 717 South Michael Stewart, former GM Joe Moledo out and Andrew Wilkins (formerly of Mad Fish and Ceviche) in as GM. This comes after a long history of turmoil, including the loss of chef Pedro Flores earlier this year. Looks like the restaurant's new thrust…
On the Radar: The Grapefather at Tampa Theatre
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. This Saturday, the Tampa Theatre invites you to kiss the ring of Don Corkleone at their wine tasting extravaganza. Each year, Tampa Theatre hosts a film-themed food and wine bash, and this eighth annual event honors Martin Scorsese with…
Restaurant Opening: Ella’s Folk Art Cafe in Seminole Heights, Tampa
After a long wait, the first in a series of new restaurants slated for Seminole Heights and Tampa Heights opened over this past weekend. Ella's Folk Art Cafe (5119 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa, 813-234-1000) looks like it has the right funky vibe to fit in with the Seminole Heights crowd, along with outdoor seating (albeit…
Sex bites: a match gone wrong, he/she runner, jelly bracelets…
Match.com gone wrong: This week, a 35 year old woman from Detroit was charged with third-degree criminal sexual conduct for having sex with her biological son. Aimee Louise Sword gave her son up for adoption 10 years ago, and was reunited with him after finding him on the Internet. Free on bond, Sword's lawyer says…
Best Video: Lush Progress, “Even Now”
Tampa area art rockers Lush Progress premiered their tasteful video for “Even Now” back in May. Produced by frontman Drew Cutler and directed by Jesse Newman, the video has a lush and dreamy feel, and showcases the song’s drifting, despondent melody with all the right elements of fantasy and easy-but-pretty special effects. Proof that with…
Worst Meals Series Volume I: Chef’s Special Congee — Special for all the wrong reasons
As a chef, you're only as good as your last meal. And for most of us, the memory of a bad meal tends to stick around a lot longer than the typical experience. I can describe to you every single detail of a terrible dinner that I had two years ago, but I probably couldn't…
Hillsborough County receives $7.6 million federal energy efficiency grant
According to this press release from Hillsborough County: Hillsborough County has been notified that it will receive $7,665,200 in federal stimulus funds to undertake energy efficiency and conservation projects on its facilities and vehicles. The award is the largest energy grant awarded to a County government in Florida to date. The funding comes from $2.7…
Chumpservations: Workout clothes and dress socks, poker tournaments and college football, solving the unemployment problem, and sports and the proverbial “we”
Since the inception of sportschump.net in April of 2009, I’ve written countless narratives about the world of sports. Yet the one piece that people remember most was not my detailed breakdown of the NBA Finals, the wild card races or my football season previews, but rather the fact that, when I go to the deli,…
Recapping the 2009 MTV VMAs: Kanye, Taylor, Beyonce, Pink, Gaga and more!
With the Loafies on Tuesday, I am getting ready for a little awards show action. What better way to prepare for my acceptance speech (I'm winning a Loafie for something, right?) than to watch the MTV VMAs? My favorite part of any awards show is the red carpet, generally…but this is the VMAs so I…
Late night music, Sept. 14-19: Miley Cyrus, Phoenix, Juliette Lewis, Megadeth, Pink and more!
A weekly bulletin about who’s playing on late night TV; set your TIVOs or DVRs if you’ve got an early bedtime. See a day missing? No musical guest that night… , NBC (he's baaacckk!) Monday, September 14: Jay-Z with Rihanna & Kanye West (likely performing their single, "Run This Town," pictured right) Wednesday, September 16:…
Photo review: Have Gun Will Travel, Matt Butcher, John Ralston & Mike Dunn at New World Brewery
Have Gun, Will Travel (pictured below), Matt Butcher, John Ralston, and Mike Dunn & The Kings of New England created a mini-Americana fest at New World Brewery this past Friday, September 11, a show brought to you by New Granada Presents.
Do It Today: fall arts debut at DFAC, Haven’t I Seen You Online? and more at [5]art
DFAC's myriad new fall exhibits include The Cabinet of Natural Curiosities, a group exhibit by Shihoko Amano, Lanny Bergner, Deon Blackwell, Ladislav Hanka, Timothy Horn, Adrienne Outlaw, Yuka Saito and Tanja Softic, who "explore the theme of Albertus Seba’s eighteenth century natural history classic by the same name." It inspired a variety of media, including…
Did someone say ‘vacation sex?!’
I'm back! Sorry for the leave of absence! I've spent the better part of a year living abroad, collecting many international affair stories for you 🙂 At first, I thought I'd keep this last year of adventures to myself. You see, many of us are aware of "vacation sex"… it's a right of passage, whether…
Daddy on Ice – A Father’s Review of “Disney on Ice: Princess Classics”
If you had asked me four years ago whether I’d ever be ringside at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa for a Disney on Ice show (let alone one named “Princess Classics”) I’d have laughed out loud. But last night, there I was, holding my breath in an arena full of 3 – 5…
Florida students honor 9/11 victims
Eight years ago today, nearly three thousand lives – the majority of which were civilians – were taken in a despicable act of terrorism. It is likely a day that will not be forgotten by anyone who witnessed the events unfold, or the countless lives that were affected by the tragedy. It is a day…
Which NCAA and NFL football games you should watch this weekend
Can you smell that, sports fans? The freshly cut grass? The grill at the tailgate loaded up with low-sodium, turkey kielbasa? The stumbling guy with matching hat and jersey who has had way too much to drink hours before tip-off? That’s right. It’s that time of year again and we are all ready for some…
Not a slut, just a swinger
After reading Rebecca’s 10 Reasons you might be a swinger, I realized I am one. I’ve toyed with this thought like I’ve toyed with hard cock; let it amuse me but never take it seriously. I fit 5.5 of the 10 listed reasons. (the half reason is because I know what Viagra is but the…
Smoky Chipotle Slider recipe
When I was a kid, as soon as winter melted into spring each year my family would take every opportunity possible to have a big, backyard, family barbecue. Dad’s grill was lit from Memorial Day right on through Labor Day. Each holiday, birthday, graduation and anniversary was celebrated in style under our lilac and cherry…
Deep Carnivale: A Celebration of Words returns this weekend
This weekend marks the third year of Deep Carnivale,Tampa’s premiere festival for readers and writers. It's this Saturday and Sunday, and features dozens of authors, poets, songwriters and artists. On Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the fest take over the Performing Arts Building of Hillsborough Community College, Ybor City Campus — and best…
Green Community weekend events: Seminole Heights Community Garden event, healthy home workshop, trash to treasure swap, green markets and more
Looking for something green-related to do this weekend? Look no further than our own Green Community Calendar. Join the Seminole Heights Community Garden to plant a garden in honor of 9/11- Saturday, September 12. The Seminole Heights Community Gardens has teamed up with Green Florida to plant a native and edible garden for a local…
Project Runway Recap: If Models Ruled the World
This week on Project Runway, the models are calling the shots. Shameless ploy to get us to watch Models of the Runway? Yes. Am I watching Models of the Runway? Yes. Mission accomplished, Lifetime, you have sucked me in. I love that the models have all these grand ideas but a little part of me,…
An angry drunk dream
Dream Momma, I was in my car waiting in line at a gas station. When it was my turn to put gas in my car the pump was dry. I was furious all of the other drivers got gas and I didn't. Dear Gas Station Dreamer, Did you know that the booze we all swill…
Dramatic new time lapse photos of Greenland melting (video)
Photographer James Balog shares new image sequences from the Extreme Ice Survey, a network of time-lapse cameras recording glaciers receding at an alarming rate, some of the most vivid evidence yet of climate change in his talk on TED. Video after the jump:
Is sleeping in the same bed harming your relationship? How ’bout your health?
Have you ever been rudely awakened at 3 a.m. when your bed mate takes all the covers or rolls on top of you? How about trying to fall asleep while your partner snores like an asthmatic hog? According to sleep specialist Dr. Neil Stanley, couples should sleep separately for the good of their health and…
Top Chef Las Vegas Podcast, Ep. 4: Famous French chefs, snails, unicorns, goodbye lady Jack Black
This week, we're back to rag on episode 4 of the new season on Top Chef. I do have to say, since they've been cutting the fat (2 people went home this week) it's been getting better. This episode had French written all over it: a Quickfire judged by Daniel Boulud featuring escargot (snails), an Elimination Challenge…
Coping with losses in college football
We have all been there. If you’re a college football fan and you bleed your school colors, then you’ve experienced it. You’ve painted your face. You’ve worn your lucky shirt, shorts and undergarments on game day. Your superstitions have become routine. You’ve tailgated from daybreak to sundown and beyond. You have eaten and drank excessively…
Best Cat Vet: Donna F. Shannon, DVM, The Cat Hospital of Tampa Bay
Dr. Shannon has been treating animals for nearly three decades, and although she’s run a string of veterinary clinics over the years, the Cat Hospital is her pet dream: a fully loaded feline-only care center that opened last November in a new plaza on the edge of St. Petersburg. The Cat Hospital is within easy…
Cracked reservoir causes more financial problems for Tampa Bay Water and the environment
By Kelly Cornelius PoHo contributor & R-LAND; activist Tampa Bay Water (TBW) could be slapped with some hefty fines for over-pumping ground water recently. They cited a drought and a cracked reservoir for breaking the rules on pumping limits. Anybody else think our elected officials have allowed too much growth without a thought in the…
Do It This Weekend: Comic book art party, Deep Carnivale, Meet the Browns, modern dance and more
Art lovers, comic fans and those in-between: time to throw on your tights, tie on your cape and iron your underwear! St. Pete’s co-op gallery and boutique ARTpool is having a Heroes and Heroines art party for its monthly show opening. The all-ages opening is expected to garner 100-300 attendees (including you) and showcases comic-inspired…
On the Radar: Vans Warped Tour 15th Anniversary Celebration
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. Today, we invite you to next Thursday's screening about the wonders of Warped Tour — without all the sweat, mud and mosh pits. Don't worry, it'll still be fun. If you thought Warped Tour was over, think again. Next…
My so-called pregnancy: an abortion story (part two)
Last week, I posted the first part of a story about my recent abortion. I left off on a Saturday, puking my guts out and trying to figure out how I was going to pay for the procedure. Here’s the second portion of my story: By Sunday, I was still a mess: sleepy, queasy, grumpy,…
Bacon Jam: Top Chef Las Vegas, Episode 4
In last night’s episode of Top Chef Las Vegas, Atlanta chef Kevin Gillespie became cheftestant royalty as he sat down for dinner alongside a panel of crazy famous French chefs, including the chef of the century “unicorn” Joel Robuchon. Kevin’s take on snails paired with southern inspired bacon jam (“I think you could put bacon…
Mitch Perry to join Creative Loafing staff as News & Politics Editor
Creative Loafing Editor David Warner made this announcement today: Mitch Perry, who served for over 9 years as assistant news director of WMNF-FM and created the WMNF Evening News in 2003, joins the staff of Creative Loafing as News & Politics editor beginning September 21. A respected voice in Bay area journalism with broad experience…
Sunday, Sept. 13: Children’s Cancer Center Benefit at Skipper’s; Shires and Picott at Studio@620
CORRECTION TO MUSIC WEEK, 9/9 PRINT EDITION OF CREATIVE LOAFING: THE FOLLOWING ACTS ARE PLAYING ON SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 13, NOT SATURDAY SEPT. 12 AS PRINTED IN THE PAPER. Benefit for Children's Cancer Center w/Patrick Foy & The Conch Critters/ De Lei' ed Parrots: Music for a good cause, featuring country blues about Florida by Foy…
Dreaming of an old house — or an old life?
Dream Momma, A dream that keeps repeating, from time to time, is buying a huge old house that is run down, and fixing it up, or traveling through cities in unknown areas and buying homes that are run down for a great price. I’m going to get pure Jungian here. That means I am going…
Nosh Pit Episode 25: Backyard gardening the GNATV way, Smorgasbord IKEA
After a break for the past couple of weeks, Brian invites Grayson and Alex from GNATV.com to come in and talk about their new season of video restaurant reviews and such. They're embarking on a four-episode adventure into the fine art of backyard gardening, mainly so Grayson can sate his incredible appetite for parsnips. We…
How to tell if your potential date is a loser: vol. 1
I consider myself an authority on spotting losers because, well, I used to be one. I only exempt myself now because I’m married. Not to say that all married men make quality boyfriends; I just feel that if you’re able to convince a woman to marry you after five years of dating, either you’re not…
What is Fair Trade?
What is Fair Trade? With the recent celebration of Labor Day (which, by the way, was started in 1894 by President Grover Cleveland as a way to distract attention from May Day) – the real anniversary of radical labor activism – I want to talk more about labor: fair labor. The fair trade movement sets…
Best Rap Artist: Shunda K
She raps in a lightning-fast, tightly reined, tongue-twisting, furious style, with her solid rhyming interrupted by occasional sung verses set against a backtrack of well-produced beats that make you wanna shake your rump. After getting dumped from UK-based Domino Records (Junior Boys, Arctic Monkeys), Shunda K (formerly of Yo Majesty) decided to give her entire…
Bill Foster’s posse: “Comforting continuity” on parade
As if to provide a visual demonstration of "comforting continuity" — the dubious benefit afforded to St. Pete voters by mayoral candidate Bill Foster, according to the St. Petersburg Times' endorsement — Foster assembled 19 past and present community leaders on City Hall steps yesterday to herald their support of his candidacy. And, in comfortingly…
If Carl Hiaasen isn’t pissing off someone, he isn’t doing his job
Ladies and gentlemen, I’d like to nominate the University Press of Florida for the state’s highest public service award. After all, the publisher has brought Carl Hiaasen’s two collections of newspaper columns back into print in handsome trade paperbacks. Check out Kick Ass and Paradise Screwed (both University Press of Florida, $24.95 apiece). Hiaasen has always said…
Want a sure thing? Take the Bucs under 6 wins this season
Woe is the Buccaneers fan. Let me preface this by saying I love the Bucs. They’re my NFL team and always will be. I’m not looking to switch allegiances and I never will. But the 2009 Buccaneers are in trouble. While other NFL teams are already executing their game plans with near playoff-like precision, the…
Lies and Lying Liars: Obama vs. Palin vs. McCain vs. Joe “You Lie!” Wilson
Lies, lies, lies. Lots of them flying around lately, or — more to the point — lots of accusations of lying. One of the strongest moments in Obama's joint speech before Congress last night was his in-your-face denunciation of "death panel" propaganda: Some of people’s concerns have grown out of bogus claims spread by those…
Do It Today: Barrage fiddlers, Swing Your Empire, meet Fearsome Creatures of Florida author
Ruth Eckerd Hall continues its partnership with the historic and recently refurbished Capitol Theatre in Clearwater by bringing another show to its stage: Barrage, a nine-piece performance troupe that takes fiddling to a whole new level of fiery fusion. The ensemble actually began rehearsing for their U.S. tour at the Capitol and kick off their…
On the Radar: Meet the Browns Comedy and Gospel Extravaganza, Gasparilla International Film Fest benefit party
Welcome to On the Radar, where we preview up-and-coming arts events to mark your calendar for. This weekend, check out a comedy show inspired by playwright Tyler Perry and a benefit party for the hardworking folks of the Gasparilla International Film Festival. Tyler Perry must the most inspired man in Hollywood, cranking out show after…
The strange and odd: those crazy swingers next door (NSFW)
Swingers need open minds that allow them to try new things, accept people who are very different, and witness sights that may test the limits of what they consider sexy.
Weekly SportsChumpdate feat. Chris Carpenter, Matthew Stafford, Melanie Oudin, Derek Jeter and the dangers of tequila
Proving once again that reality television is bad for you, San Diego Charger linebacker Shawne Merriman was arrested for allegedly restraining and choking his girlfriend, former reality television star, Tila Tequila. Tequila hasn’t done this much damage to someone on the west coast since my last trip to Tijuana. Tequila charged Merriman with battery and…
The Age of Stupid: An eco docu-drama simulcast live in a one-night-only event
is an eco docu-drama directed by Franny Armstrong (Mc Libel, Drowned Out) and will be shown as a "first of it's kind" worldwide live event- simulcast live from a solar tent in New York to only 440 movie theaters in the nation, in conjunction with UN Climate Week. The film stars Pete Postlethwaite (The Usual…
Wednesday-music.com profile: Passion Pit
With the intention of creating a Valentines Day gift for his then girlfriend Christine, Cambridge based Passion Pit started as a one-time/one-man project of Michael Angelakos. The resulting EP, Chunk of Change quickly found its way onto the iPods of his friends at Emerson College, who then passed it on to their friends and acquaintances. …
Smorgasbord IKEA: IKEA Grocery Store Shopping List
(This is the third installment of our week-long Smorgasbord IKEA series.) After a week eating out of IKEA's grocery store, I was impressed by the amount of food I tried that I'd actually make a trip to buy again, whether or not I'm picking up an area rug or cartload of picture frames. Here are…
Eco-friendly cleaning products: Healthy and safe alternatives for you and the environment
The Issue: Cleaning products that are full of chemicals! The Larger Issues: -Certain glass cleaners contain Isopropyl alcohol which can irritate the skin, eyes, nose and throat, and ammonia which can irritate the skin and eyes and cause coughing, wheezing and shortness of breath. -Many all-purpose cleaners contain 2-butoxyethanol which can cause headaches, dizziness, lightheadedness and…
Dreaming of an unhappy pregnancy
Dream Momma, I dreamed I was pregnant and not happy about it. In the dream I was a virgin and wondered how could this happen to me? People from all over, some from my past, were happy and congratulating me. My old boyfriend was there smirking. The dream was so strong I woke up wondering…
Swinger party potential: hit or miss
Soccer Dad and I are off to another swingers party this weekend filled with couples we know and many we don't. So how do we know a swinger's party will be worth the trip, and thr price of admission, if we have no idea if there will be anyone there we want to fuck? We…
CD Review: Drive-By Truckers, The Fine Print
In a way, The Fine Print (A Collection Of Oddities and Rarities 2003-2008), perfectly encompasses the “duality” the Drive-By Truckers have made a career of writing about. On one hand, it's the best album they've released in years. On the other, the bulk was recorded years ago. The Fine Print features that classic sound DBT…
Best Frontman: Ernie Locke, Nervous Turkey
He is the Bay area’s most entertaining and engaging frontman by far, leading his blues-rockin’, barroom-stompin’ trio with ball-blasting vigor and tongue planted firmly in cheek. Wielding his bulk like an oversized sex symbol, he swings his belly and swivels his hips in exaggerated twists, rubs his nipples through his always sweat-drenched shirt, makes fake…
Springsteen Week: Rabid Fiction, Roses Thrown in the Rain
Mary's open suitcase lay prone on her bed, empty as the thoughts in her mind. He'd left three messages on her machine just that day alone. The light on the machine blinked incessantly, matching the pounding inside her chest. It was a situation she could no longer avoid dealing with. The phone rings could…
Richard Blais on Top Chef: Second Helpings – Colonel Mustard (with recipe)
In the third episode of Top Chef: Las Vegas, both winning teams use one common ingredient. A very common ingredient, but one that I consider quite special. It’s probably sitting on your shelf right now. A container full of swagger and an essential, go-to-bottle for your next company quickfire. Mustard. In any form. I consider…
Tough questions and a mystery law firm: The Commissioner White Sex-Trial Sideshow continues
By George Niemann PoHo contributor and R-LAND and UCAN activist The circus continues as Hillsborough County muddles through the process of settling with the victim in the Kevin White Sex Trial. Hillsborough’s Board of County Commissioners held what could be truly called a sideshow on Sept 8, 2009. It even included a Barking Dog Act,…
Using the Earth to inspire inner joy
This is the time to take in the new energy arriving from our universe to assist in making the necessary changes needed in our lives at this time. Many are in a great state of turmoil – the economy is soaring downward quickly and environmental disaster is looming. So what can we do? Give in…
America’s seven deadly sins and Nude Milla Jovovich (pics NSFW)
Kansas State University has created this amazing map of sin by plotting per-capita statistics on things like violent crime (wrath) , STDs (lust) and gluttony (fast food joints). After seeing the pictures below you'll probably be committing at least one deadly sin… Ten years ago, Milla Jovovich showed off her birthday suit in the art…
Smorgasbord IKEA: Eating the Pseudo-Swedish Way
My nightly meal is brought to you courtesy of IKEA, food served on simple, gleaming white ARV plates, cut and delivered using SVIT utensils, with lemonade sipped from chunky POKAL tumblers. If we're feeling saucy, or it's a weekend night, there may be Cotes Du Rhone or Spanish grenache in OPTIMAL stems, or shaken Bombay…
MMA News: Pablo Alfonso submits Jason Goodall, becomes new XFC Bantamweight Champion; War Machine defeats Mikey Gomez
Mixed martial arts (MMA) fans In Tampa enjoyed an action-packed nine-bout fight card hosted by the Xtreme Fighting Chamionships (XFC) at the St.Pete Times Forum on Saturday. In the main event of the evening, Pablo Alfonso was crowned as the new XFC Bantamweight Champion after a four-round war against defending champion Jason Goodall. War Machine…
Green Community weekend events: Fresh movie screening, green markets, organic cooking class and more
Looking for something green-related to do this weekend? Look no further than our own Green Community Calendar. Grand Opening of the Achievement and Relaxation Center- Friday, September 4; 6-9 pm. Free Belly Dancing, Yoga, Biomat/Energy Sessions. Vegetarian Potluck. Meditative Art and Jewelry Show. 813-784-2023. 2510 South MacDill, Tampa, FL 33629. www.achieveandrelax.com, Sheryl@achieveandrelax.com Screening of Fresh at Studio@620-…
The Green Community week in review: Clean energy rally, legalizing marijuana, BOTB Readers’ Poll, and more
What’s the buzz on the latest issues in the Green Community? Check out what you may have missed this last week: Finding an emotional connection with our planet- Doing so allows us to look at what our needs are in life and what is of the highest and greatest importance to us and our environment.…
Is it too late to save this planet? Plus green pledges to try to make a difference
Scattered about me are books and magazines. On one the poster child of the climate change movement, the polar bear swimming in icy clear water. Audubon chose the title Sink or Swim: Another Assault on the Arctic and How You Can Help Stop It. In all honesty, I think it’s too late. We are currently witnessing the fifth or…
Website
The San Fernando Valley Folklore Society's Urban Legends Reference Pageswww.snopes.com So here's the scene at this year's company Christmas party: Sammi from Sales looks cockeyed over the rim of her blush wine glass. "Hey," she says in a stage whisper, "wanna hear something spooky?" "Yeah!!," blurts Frank from Finance, his fist slamming down drunkenly on…
Music Menu
Tab Benoit The electric guitar-slinging bluesman/tourhorse returns to the Skipperdome, after playing to a 600-strong crowd this past February. The 21-and-up show begins at 8 p.m., and tickets are $12 in advance, $15 day of show. (Dec. 1, Skipper's Smokehouse) The Dismemberment Plan w/Dälek/ Dumbwaiters Dateline: Tampa Bay. Hundreds of indie rockers and young punks…
GROUP SEX, ANYONE?
Having Group Sex for a year has been a total joy for Susan Tanner. This is just a very cool party. We only get together for special occasions and this time it's to have fun and to help Earth Challenge at the same time, she says of this week's Group Sex show to benefit an…
Top Spins
This debut full-length was released in England in August of 1999, and Athens, Ga.'s Kindercore Records has kindly issued it stateside. Expect soft vocals, gentle brass, and sweet '60s pop melodies from the core duo of Deborah Wykes (vocals, bass, piano, organs, mellotron, harmonica, glockenspiel) and guitarist Paul Kelly, two former touring members of Saint…
Coming Out for the Holidays
OK, so Thanksgiving is over and the Winter Shopolympics have officially begun. According to the Weekly Planet's extensive target-marketing research, our readership tends to have somewhat mixed feelings about such wanton consumerism. Basically, you like presents — some of you even like shopping. But you also like to think of yourself as the kind of…
Top Spins
Wu Tang Clan
