Attorney and Gulf war vet Dennis Meyers latest candidate to get into Tampa City Council race in District 4
Although the announcements aren't as plentiful as say, a few weeks ago, there are still more people announcing their maiden candidacies for elected office in next March's Tampa City Council races. On Wednesday it was Tampa attorney Dennis Meyers who became the latest citizen to announce his candidacy for the South Tampa district four seat.…
Save natural resources (and money) on your heating bill this winter (video)
It's winter and even we down here in the Sunshine State are feeling the effects of the season. This time of year means donning many layers of clothing, shoveling snow (where that applies) and giving our home heating systems a workout. But bumping up the temperature on our heating systems can be costly and cause…
Concert review: 97X Next Big Thing 10 with My Chemical Romance, The Black Keys, Chevelle, Sick Puppies, Cage the Elephant, The Dirty Heads and many others (with lots of photos)
For a decade now, Tampa Bay’s alternative rock station, 97X-FM, has brought an amazing array of talent to town for the all-day concert event otherwise known as the "Next Big Thing." This year’s show lived up to its name and reputation, the bill featuring a stellar roster of high-quality bands delivering more than 12 hours…
Movie & TV links for Wed., Dec. 8, 2010: Daft Punk, Remembering John Lennon, Tron:Legacy, R.I.P. Elizabeth Edwards and much more …
Remembering John Lennon … Remembering Elizabeth Edwards … New York Times Magazine presents Fourteen Actors Acting, a strange little project that's kind of hypnotic. As of September 43 million people were on food stamps. That's one in seven Americans …
Mike Merrill to lay out priorities at Thursday Hillsborough BOCC retreat
On Thursday, the Hillsborough County Commission goes on their annual one day retreat, with the idea being to talk about the goals and strategies they want to implement in 2011. A sneak preview of what Interim County Administrator Mike Merrill plans to propose was unveiled on Tuesday at a joint meeting between the BOCC, the…
Mediocre celebrity Jim Belushi to host Gasparilla Parade (video)
Jim Belushi, an actor and performer of limited range who has gone a long way in his career based on his famous last name, was named on Tuesday as grand marshal for next year's Gasparilla Parade. We learned the news from NewsChannel 8's Jeff Patterson, who wrote that the parade is ramping up its "star…
EarthTalk: Factoring environmental degradation into economics
The following is from the environmental themed advice column EarthTalk®, by the Editors of the non-profit publication E/The Environmental Magazine, that we be regularly feature here on CL’s Green Community. Dear EarthTalk: In my business courses in college, we were taught that ecological degradation was an “externality”—something outside the purview of economic analyses. Now that…
Concert review: Jukebox the Ghost at Crowbar, Ybor City (with photos)
Philly's Jukebox the Ghost stopped by Crowbar in Ybor City last Saturday night for their second visit this year, this time to promote their second album, Everything Under the Sun. I've been a huge fan ever since seeing them open for Ben Folds, and even though they were just here in June, the band delivered…
Could a pact of conservatives and Dems kill Obama GOP tax compromise? Hillsborough school union head Jean Clements gets prominent play in Newsweek, and the lasting impact of John Lennon, 30 years after he was killed in NYC: Mitch Perry Report 12.8.10
The blowback from the political left after President Obama announced his compromise plan is fierce and unrestrained; Combined with a few influential conservatives also claiming the bill is insufficient, the idea that the proposal is a done deal might be a tad premature. Hillsborough County school officials are cheering the improved test scores and grading…
Hertz is the first car rental company offering EVs and car share program
The Hertz Corporation has just announced that they'll be adding electric vehicles to their rental and car share fleet starting next week in New York City, followed by Washington DC and San Francisco. Their new program, Connect by Hertz, allows users to rent vehicles for a few days or just a few hours and will…
On the Radar: The comedy of Doug Benson and Scientology
It’s hard to pin down what lies behind Doug Benson’s unique slacker mystique – his deadpan delivery? His sh**-eating grin between jokes? Benson’s charm might also have to do with how cleverly he walks the line between stoner space cadet and school-yo-ass. The comedian describes his Comedy Central show, The Benson Interruption, as “a bouillabaisse…
Can conservative AND liberal opposition in Congress kill Obama/McConnell tax deal?
Progressives frustrations with President Obama are boiling over in the wake of his compromise on extending the Bush-era tax cuts with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell on Monday. That anger is also widespread with many Democratic House members, and with a lot of activists who campaigned for Obama and have stood by him for the…
Tampa Bay food, wine and beer events
Wednesday, December 8: ABC Fine Wine and Spirits (N. Dale Mabry) It's another one of ABC's infamous tastings where you'll get to try more than 50 wines from around the globe along with gourmet appetizers. Wine experts will be on hand to assist you with all of your holiday vino needs. Cigar lovers can also…
Hillsborough County Union head Jean Clements gets the star treatment in Newsweek
At a meeting with members of the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce, the Tampa City Council and Hillsborough County Commissioners, School Board Chair MaryEllen Elia and board member Dorothea Edgecomb took pride in announcing improved scores with a number of public schools in the county. 16 of 27 traditional high schools improved at least one…
Lightning down early, lose 4-2 to Flames
The Lightning took to the long road west on Tuesday night in a rare match up against the Calgary Flames, 6.5 years to the day after defeating Calgary for their first Stanley Cup. The Bolts entered the game hoping to continue their winning ways, coming off a victory Saturday night against the Colorado Avalanche. They…
Reflections on the 30th anniversary of John Lennon’s death (videos)
Like many people in America, I first learned that John Lennon had been assassinated from Howard Cosell on a Monday night on December 8, 1980. It was at 8:38 P.M. Pacific time, 11:38 on the east coast when Cosell told the nation. As has been reported by others, there was no Internet and barely cable…
Do It Today: Amnesty International Global Write-a-Thon and more
Tampa Bay may be undergoing an epidemic of Bieber Fever today, but there are other things to do besides seeing a teen superstar in concert – events that with fewer screaming 13-year-olds. We promise. Amnesty International’s Global Write-a-Thon is an occasion for everyone — not just Amnesty members. All are encouraged to spend 90 minutes writing…
“All Hands on Deck”: Pick up the phone for the Gulf today
The Surfrider Foundation's 'Not the Answer' campaign has been working to help Gulf residents and ecosystems before and after the April BP oil spill disaster — and we will not stop until a full resolution is reached. Currently, we are doing chapter sponsored water testing, and partnering with several local organizations to find the truth.…
A taste for Champagne on a beer budget? Holiday bubbly for any allowance
As you obsess about jazzing up what holiday feast you’ll put in the oven, don’t neglect what you sip from your glasses. You see, the right wine can be a key ingredient in your holiday meal, including how you kick things off. Sure, few things are more festive than champagne, but bubbly can be too…
Chuck Sykes clarifies Tampa Chamber’s stance on Tampa Bay Rays stadium issue
Recently the Greater Tampa Chamber of Commerce's executive committee voted to make the financing of a new ballpark for the Tampa Bay Rays one of their top three focuses for 2011. The full board will vote on whether they want to utilize their resources on that goal next week. But Chuck Sykes, the chairman of…
Obama strongly defends his compromise deal with GOP on taxes at White House press conference
President Obama appeared confident and at times defiant today at a White House press conference where he defended his compromise agreement with Congressional Republicans that not only insures that the wealthiest Americans will continue to enjoy a tax cut for the next two years, but also raised an exemption on the estate tax as well.…
Is George Lucas God? Because he’s planning some resurrections …
There are those who would consider that headline blasphemy. Many more can be counted on to say that Star Wars director George Lucas is a moron. But there are others who say Mr. Lucas is God. No matter your position, the latest rumor surrounding the famous director will no doubt strengthen your opinion of him…
Spoiler Corner: Glee, Dexter, Vampire Diaries and more!
Curious about your favorite shows? Is someone dying? Is your favorite couple getting engaged? Hook-ups? Break-ups? Well, here you will find the answers to your burning questions! Enjoy television lovers! 90210 Ivy is getting a new hot man, a skateboarder in fact and his name is Raj. How cute young, sporty, love very California! Listen…
AltDotPop: Lady Gaga is dead (sort of), Miley Cyrus is nude (probably), Britney Spears had an abortion (allegedly), Kim Kardashian is pregnant (maybe) and more …
Lady Gaga, Ryan Seacrest and a bunch of other, less famous people died on Twitter to make some statement about AIDS and raise cash. America either thought this was as insensitive as I did or they just didn’t care to buy their favorite tweeters their virtual lives back, and it took some rich dude giving…
Collins Veterans Museum Building Dedication to be Held on Dec. 8
Hillsborough County News For Immediate Release November 30, 2010 Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum Building Dedication to be Held on Dec. 8 What: Rear Admiral LeRoy Collins, Jr. Veterans Museum Building Dedication When: Wednesday, Dec. 8, 2 p.m. Where: Veterans Memorial Park and Museum, 3602 Hwy. 301 North in Tampa The life of…
Movie & TV (& Politics) links for Tues., Dec. 7, 2010: Obama’s billionaire tax cuts, Inception in real time, The Economist Film project and more …
Washington Post blogger Ezra Klein says the Obama Tax Cuts compromise may not be as bad as you think. (But they're still kinda bad …) A look at The Economist Film Project: a collaboration between The Economist magazine and PBS NewsHour to showcase independent documentary films from around the world.
CL Holiday Auction 2010 Item #036: Dinner and a show at Skipper’s Smokehouse
North Tampa's longtime outdoor venue, Skipper's Smokehouse, and restaurant is a bona fide Tampa landmark and favorite of live music aficionados. This package includes dinner for two ($30 value) and two tickets to virtually any show of your choice that takes place between Dec. 16, 2010, and Dec. 16, 2011. Upcoming concerts include Todd Snider…
Bill’s Sports Binge throwback edition: Bucs, blackouts and bowl games
I must sound like a broken record because now even I'm starting to get sick of hearing my own opinion about the Buccaneers. And I love my opinion. I agree with it 90% of the time. Oh, you should see the looks I get when I disagree with myself. Awk-waaard. Speaking of awkward, does anybody even know…
DIY green beauty: Make your own natural bath and body care gifts
Personal care items like soap and fragrances are big sellers during the holiday season. People tend to drop a fair amount of dough on cosmetics gifts at stores like Bath and Body Works and Victoria's Secret. But, as we've preached before on this site, numerous brands of cosmetics on the market contain chemicals that aren't…
CL Holiday Auction Item #67: Taste the best of Cigar City’s limited edition brews
This item is a mystery grab bag of sorts, but if you or someone you know is a Cigar City brew fan, this is a must-have item. Joey Redner will be handpicking a number of special-edition, limited-release — and highly coveted — bottles, including ones that you can longer find in stores, for this "best…
New music releases out this Tuesday, December 7: Daft Punk, Natasha Bedingfield, Deadmau5, Duffy, Ministry, Plain White T’s, Frank Turner and more! (with audio & video)
More new music releases hit shelves before the big gift-giving holiday season. Here’s a breakdown of the ones you want to know about; to see releases that came out last week (November 30), click here; and for albums out November 22-23, click here. , Anika (Stones Throw/Invada Records) The psyche singer who lives between Berlin…
Too barking cute: SPCA Calendars available now
Here's a great gift idea: SPCA Tampa Bay 2011 calendars are now available! The calendar comprises 13 favorite photos Tampa Bay residents voted on to determine the pets representing each month. Calendars cost $11.95 (tax included) and can be purchased at the SPCA Tampa Bay Pet Boutique. Funds raised benefit the Save the Tails medical…
Get laughs, help needy at Gorilla Theater
Audiences of Gorilla Theatre’s seasonal comedy Christmas Stopping have donated a total of 486 pounds of food to Metropolitan Ministries. The theater’s Thanksgiving Special (Bring a non-perishable food item to donate and Pay What You Can at the door) was such a success that Gorilla decided to extend the special for the entire run of…
Dissecting Dexter: Season 5, Episode 11 “Hop a Freighter”
This episode starts fast and furiously, with a heated exchange between Deb and Jordan Chase. Deb knows that there's one common thread between all of the recent mishaps: Jordan Chase. She also knows that Julia Stiles has escaped and is eliminating Chase's buddies. And that Jordan's next. Meanwhile, Dex and Lumen are planning on they're…
Feuding Democrats in Tallahassee leads for call for Jimmy Carter to mediate
As we reported in an earlier post, Hillsborough County Democrats, who have become famed for having "issues" amongst themselves that stretches back to the earlier part of the last decade, came together last night and showed a display of unity in selecting their new head officials to lead the party over the next couple of…
How to give and receive: A CL Holiday Auction shopping list (plus a challenge)
Do I hear $16,000? $20,000? How about we double last year's total and go all the way to $25,000? As of today at 9:30 a.m., Creative Loafing's Holiday Auction had pulled in $15,728.14 for The Children's Home. If all bids stand, that's almost $4,000 more than we raised in last year's auction — and the…
Pornstar Ann Marie Rios on her talented feet, bilingual dirty talk, and porn set myths (NSFW)
Ann Marie Rios has been performing in x-rated films for nearly a decade, which makes her around 80 in porn years, and yet she's still being cast as the naïve nymphet with an innocent voice as well as the fierce-tongued Latina vixen. Rios has done everything in the adult world from directing to acting as…
Will House Dems revolt against Obama/GOP tax cut deal? Chris Mitchell chosen to lead Hillsborough Democratic Party, and another survey shows Tampa/St. Pete way down the list of America’s smartest communities: Mitch Perry Report 12.7.10
Good morning, welcome to the 69th anniversary of the invasion of Pearl Harbor. For some Democrats, December 6, 2010 will live as a day of infamy, after President Obama came to an agreement with Republican leaders on extending the Bush-era tax cuts for all, including millionaires, for two more years. But will House Democrats revolt…
Offshore drilling banned for next 7 years: The Surfrider Foundation says “thanks” to those who helped make it happen
thanks you for your help in restoring the offshore drilling moratorium. While the national press release is listed below, the Suncoast Chapter of the Surfrider Foundation would like to say “thank you” to all who helped spread the word and raised their voices to share in our common victory. Also noteworthy is the act concludes…
Tampa Bay area again comes up looking bad in latest survey of America’s smartest communities
With a nod to Peter Schorsch for first tweeting about this, we have yet another survey that reports that when it comes to ranking communities in terms of brainpower, the Tampa Bay Area ain't at the top of the list. It's not even in the middle of the list. Portfolio.com has just produced a survey…
Some House Democrats say they won’t “rubberstamp” Obama-GOP tax deal
The White House and Republican leaders in Congress reached a big agreement Monday to extend the expiring income tax cuts for two years (meaning this will be debated once again in 2012), while extending unemployment benefits and cut how much millions of workers pay in Social Security payroll taxes. Most disturbing to Democrats is on…
Joe Maddon and Rays staff play guest chef and bartenders at 717 South – Thursday, December 9
They can run a baseball team, but can they cook and mix cocktails? Tampa Bay Rays coach Joe Maddon will play guest chef and some of his pals will be mixing the drinks this Thursday night at 717 South. While Maddon is in the back of the house whipping up his family recipes from his…
Chris Mitchell officially becomes new head of Hillborough County Democratic Party
For years, the Hillsborough County Democratic Executive Committee has been riven with dissension, which, considering their spotty record in elections over the decade, has obviously been a distraction. Now the newly minted chair of the party, 26-year-old Christopher Mitchell, says that will be a relic of the past. In a surprisingly packed room at the…
Do It Today: Fun at the Orpheum, Karaoke Night at the Refinery and Florida Craftsmen’s My Wish List Soiree
Brr, it's cold! Add some heat to your Tuesday-Bluesday with some music, dancing, singing and art. For starters, if it's Fun you're after, head to the Orpheum in Ybor City. Really, how can you really go wrong with a band name that has a built-in good time? The band, which includes Nate Ruess (formerly of…
On the Radar: A wide array of art shows open this weekend
Attend an art show that is all Work and all play in the historic Santaella Cigar Factory building. The recently organized Bay Art Collective, whose objective is to create a social outlet through art, presents its first art party, Work, at the historical West Tampa Center for the Arts. The exhibit features more than 75…
Bucs players react to Sunday’s loss to the Falcons
Earnest Graham had his second career touchdown pass Sunday afternoon, but it came during a loss to the Atlanta Falcons, dealing a crushing blow the Buccaneers playoff hopes. Hear what Earnest and teammate Gerald McCoy had to say about the loss in the videos below. As I tweeted yesterday after the game, perhaps my favorite…
Welcome home, John McKay (Ring of Honor video)
Sunday night in Tampa, during halftime of the Buccaneers-Falcons game, the Bucs inducted their inaugural coach, John McKay, to the Ring of Honor at Raymond James Stadium. McKay's name will now forever be displayed in lights next to his stand-out defensive end and the first electee into the Bucs' Ring of Honor, Leroy Selmon. J.P.…
South Tampa stores that will make shopping for delectable food gifts fa-la-la-la-lovely!
Tis the season to give, deck (not fellow shoppers, but boughs of holly) and keep a jolly song in your heart — or at least on your tongue! The best way to do that is with lots of cheese and foodie treats. South Tampa’s local retail shops are singing joyous, all together with amazing selections…
#MusicMonday, Vol. 22: Paul McCartney, Pantera, Freelance Whales, Kid Cudi & more (with video)
What the Creative Loafing music team is jamming to break through the Monday malaise and rocket launch the work week… Click here to check out previous entries. – Paul McCartney, Band On The Run Deluxe (1973 originally, 2010 remastered) Deluxe, lavishly packaged remastered reissue of Macca's classic album. A second disc of rarities and outtakes…
Dave Aronberg talks about his work helping Pam Bondi, and the future
Although the final result wasn't that close, the most contested statewide race in the Democratic primary this past year was for Attorney General, where south Florida state senators Dan Gelber and Dave Aronberg duked it out. The 39-year-old Aronberg lost out to Gelber, but was one of the most dynamic public speakers advocating for the…
Friends, family and fans celebrate the Pinellas Trail’s 20th anniversary
On Saturday, December 4, a green ribbon was cut to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the opening of the Pinellas Trail. Like any birthday celebration, the parents, all of the closest friends, and the people who were there from the very beginning came out to celebrate. There was a heartwarming speech, lots of reminiscing, plenty…
Movie & TV links for today, Mon., Dec. 6, 2010: Tron: Legacy, The Kubrick Series, Sundance, Tree of Life and more …
The New York Times looks at Disney's decision to entrust first-time filmmaker Joseph Kosinski with the nearly $200 million Tron: Legacy. Here's a sampling of Joseph Kosinski's graphic design work commercials (For more see Kosinski's YouTube channel):
CL Holiday Auction Item #62: The Whole Foods Experience – Wine, Cheese and Charcuterie Party and Gift Basket
A delectable fete for you and nine of your friends, featuring some of the best that Whole Foods Market has to offer from their international wine, cheese and meat departments. To sweeten the deal, the Market will also give you a primo gift basket filled with cheese, chocolate, coffee, pasta, sauces, spices, and more —…
Perry Farrell @ Bardot in Miami for Art Basel
Exclusive pics from Perry Farrell performing at Bardot in Miami during Art Basel Thursday, Dec 2. Perry, legendary frontman for Jane's Addiction and founder of Lollapalooza, performed to launch his new Precision Musicians (PGM) artist's grant. He sang vocals with his scary-looking-up-close plastic wife Etty Farrell while DJ Chris Cox mixed a fairly standard-sounding set.…
Cynical and Southern: What the hell is a bubble butt?
The universe is full of mysteries. What is the meaning of life? How vast is the universe? Where did we come from? Add to that list of perplexities a mystery that’s been haunting me my entire gay life. What the fuck is a “bubble butt”? It is interesting to note the wordage applied when merchandise…
Superchunk, Titus Andronicus & New Bruises: SPOT 18th Anniversary Party
Superchunk turned out to be a stellar choice for the Skate Park of Tampa's 18th Anniversary Party at Czar, Ybor City (in conjunction with the Tampa Am), bringing people out of the woodwork to celebrate SPOT and the re-emergence of one of THE '90s indie rock bands. Especially because Superchunk was the band that most…
Brain food: Tilapia with lemon butter sauce and sauteed spinach
I'm writing this two days before my first 1L exam on Civil Procedure. Gasp! Yes, students who are currently freaking out, I took fifteen minutes out of reviewing to do this. I came to the realization yesterday, while watching some fellow students walk around campus in a crazed-paranoid panic, that at this point in the…
EarthTalk: Endangered species in the plant kingdom
The following is from the environmental themed advice column EarthTalk®, by the Editors of the non-profit publication E/The Environmental Magazine, that we be regularly feature here on CL’s Green Community. Dear EarthTalk: When we talk about “endangered species” we usually think of animal species, but someone recently told me that there was a worldwide crisis…
Hillsborough area tea party activists want to make it harder to pass local referenda, Bill Nelson NOT one of a handful of Senate Democrats voting for tax cuts for the wealthy, and will Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell not get a vote for a few more years? Mitch Perr
Good Monday morning, Tampa Bay. What's going on today? Sorry about your Bucs yesterday, to those who care. Thanks to the NFL Channel's Red Zone, Buc fans at the local tavern I was at last night were able to catch significant moments of the blacked out affair against Atlanta, in which the locals played a…
Bill Nelson sides with fellow Democrats on trying to end tax cuts for the rich that could add $500 billion to the deficit (video)
Although many Democrats say they're unhappy that President Obama isn't playing hardball enough with the GOP when it comes to the Bush-era tax cuts, the Democrats did put everybody on record on Saturday when the Senate voted down two measures — one that would end the tax cuts for all individuals making more than $200,000…
Will “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell” be voted on this year, or anytime before 2013?
Last Thursday and Friday, the Senate Armed Services Committee heard at times fascinating testimony on the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" (DADT) 1993 policy that prohibits gay or lesbian Americans from serving openly in the military. But the real story is whether the Senate will vote on repealing it within the next couple of weeks, and…
Do It Today: Three different concerts — Amy Speace, SPC Orchestra and Monotonix
The Straz Center’s last Club Jaeb concert of 2010 spotlights Nashville-by-way-of-NYC alt country singer-songwriter Amy Speace , whose observational lyrical style and drawling, husky soulful vocals earned her a spot on Judy Collins’ Wildflower Records label roster. Her 2009 album, The Killer in Me, got high marks from The Washington Post, which wrote, “If you…
Lightning succeeding despite goaltending slump
Lately, goaltending has become an Achilles heel for the Tampa Bay Lightning. In contrast to four skilled lines that are all notching points or league superstar Steven Stamkos, a tremendous deficit in net starts to stand out. In 27 games Dan Ellis has notched a 3.15 goals-against average, and Mike Smith a 3.57, respectively. The…
Tea party activists pushing for Hillsborough County to have super majority to pass local referenda
In 2006, Floridians voted to make it harder for themselves, the citizens, to change their government, when they voted to require a super majority to pass constitutional amendments. That measure made Florida one of only two states that requires 60% to pass a referendum. Now a group led by local tea party activists want Hillsborough…
The Green Community week in review: Greener gift ideas, Atlantic wind farms create new jobs, Buy Local Week and more
What’s the buzz on the latest issues in the Green Community? Check out what you may have missed last week: TED for teens: Highlights from the TEDx Youth Tampa Bay event (videos) – Video highlights from the TEDx Youth Tampa Bay event. EarthTalk: Greener electronics – Where can I find information on which electronics and…
International Human Rights Day to be observed this week at St. Petersburg’s Studio@620
Next Friday, December 10, is International Human Rights Day, which was first observed by the United Nations in 1948. This year's theme is human rights defenders who act to end discrimination. The occasion will be observed in St. Pete at Studio@620, which is sponsoring, in partnership with Eckerd College and the Tampa Bay Refugee Task…
A different shade of macaron (recipe)
When I was growing up, my mom always went crazy when baking cookies for the holidays. She baked the same ones every year, and it was something my sister and I always looked forward to. The exception: her macaroons. My sister and I complained so much that she finally stopped making them. These pastry nightmares…
The Grind podcast 12/3- College football wraps up, Raheem stoops down and ass-kicking karaoke
Back by popular demand (What? Yes, were gone for like three weeks. Glad you noticed. Jerk). Flip Satchel and Bill Freitas once again take to the cyber-waves to give you some stripped down, raw-ass, FCC can't touch us sports news and comment guaranteed to make you dive for the volme control when you realize you just…
Amnesty International’s Global Write-a-Thon comes to Tampa
As the Group Coordinator of Amnesty International's Tampa Bay area chapter (Group 240), I have a special respect for the annual Global Write-a-Thon event. This is an occasion for everyone — not just Amnesty members — to spend 90 minutes writing letters to foreign governments about human rights activists who have been denied justice, are…
Movie & TV links for today, Fri., Dec. 3, 2010: Brad Pitt’s Tree of Life, Black Swan, magazines from the future, And Everything Is Going Fine and more …
Terrence Malick fans are excited for the highly-anticipated Tree of Life, which stars Brad Pitt and Sean Penn. The film's first trailer will roll with Black Swan this weekend (in select cities, not Tampa Bay), but it's still unclear when the preview will land online. Steven Zeitchik at 24 Frames has seen it, and he says it "exceeds expectations."…
EarthTalk: “Trayless Tuesdays” in school cafeterias to reduce waste
The following is from the environmental themed advice column EarthTalk®, by the Editors of the non-profit publication E/The Environmental Magazine, that we’ll be regularly featuring here on CL’s Green Community. Dear EarthTalk: I’ve heard that New York City schools are trying out “Trayless Tuesdays” in their cafeterias in order to reduce waste. Why are trays…
Harry Cohen latest candidate getting into Tampa City Council District 4 race
Harry Cohen, who has been the Chief Deputy Clerk of the Circuit Court for Hillsborough County for nearly six years, announced today that he is running for the District 4 seat in next year's Tampa City Council election. In a press release issued today, Cohen said: “I was born in Tampa and I understand that…
Going Rogue: Cheesemaker David Gremmels celebrates Rogue Creamery’s 75th year with a visit to Tampa
A stalker is defined as: a person who follows or observes (a person) persistently, especially out of obsession or derangement. Phew! I don’t qualify, as I am clearly not deranged. Close though, considering I shadowed David Gremmels of Rogue Creamery and the American Cheese Society around Tampa on his latest visit. In my world of…
Pinellas BOCC approves extension of 5 cent bed tax until 2021
After a four and a half hour meeting Tuesday night, the Pinellas board of county commissioners voted to continue the five percent bed tax until 2021. The tourism and development council (TDC) handles the tax which comes from the five percent charged on hotel stays in the county. Dubbed the bed tax, it generates more…
Local DEC’s the place where Florida Democrats need to rebound; Cigar City Brewing wins at Tampa City Council, and can the “old ball coach” pull off a stunning college football upset? Mitch Perry Report 12.3.10
Happy Friday morning to those in the Tampa Bay area and beyond. With Rod Smith now assured of victory as the next chairman of the Florida Democratic Party, we analyze what his biggest challenges will be, and how the real hope for any growth for the party in the next two years must come from…
How to tell a pro domme from a faux domme
Lots of guys who're looking for professional domination want to be sure the domme they hand their money over to is "real." They want a domme who's into domination as a lifestyle and not just as a job. There's another contingent of subguys that want a domme who's out to use them financially, but that's…
Rod Smith to be new Democratic state leader – but the real work for Dems is within their DEC’s
Yesterday it became all but official that former state legislator and prosecutor Rod Smith from Alachua County will become the next state party chief for the Florida Democratic Party. But the two biggest challenges for Smith (or whomever is to lead the party) are formidable, at least as it looks a month after the midterm…
Forget material possessions: Greener holiday gift ideas
The holiday onslaught is upon us, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday screeching at us to buy more and more and increase our world of stuff. Big box stores and mega marts are doing everything in their power to get your increasingly limited money, and it can be a daunting task indeed for an eco-conscious…
Currying favor: A spice-a-phobe learns to love (and make) the Indian dishes her father grew up with
When I was a kid, I would often be the last one at the table, poking at some okra coated in a neon yellow sauce, prodding at a piece of chicken smothered in red and thinking to myself, “How am I going to get rid of this stuff?” Spicy food was my nemesis; dinner, the…
Can the “old ball coach” pull off a stunner to end the college football regular season?
No needs to play taps, but I'll be a bit bummed at the end of tomorrow, as another fantastic college football season's regular season concludes. And there's still suspense in the air, even without a playoff format. There are two important games that will decide whether we will have an Oregon/Auburn National Championship game five…
Bruins brutalize Bolts 8-1
After a huge come-from-behind victory against the Toronto Maple Leafs on Tuesday night, the Tampa Bay Lightning were hoping to keep their winning ways going and improve their woeful record in the city of Boston on Thursday night. They came up just a bit short on both counts, falling to the Bruins by a final…
Do It This Weekend: Fused, Superchunk at Czar, Mambo No. 8, Friday Night Fallout and Jobsite Rocks
Chapel Hill's Superchunk had its heyday in the '90s but remains relevant and holds a place in the hearts of aging DIY folks , indie kids, punk rockers and many others of tastes across the rock spectrum. The band gets love and respect for their sweet 'n' tasty mix of pop confection, smart songwriting and…
City Council Chair Thomas Scott clarifies quote re Cigar City Brewing
Perhaps it was a breakdown in communications? Let's explain. Tampa City Council Chairman Thomas Scott began Thursday morning's discussion of Cigar City Brewing's wet-zoning application (which the Council approved on a 4-3 vote) by saying that CL had misquoted him in our recent cover story about the issue. In the article, I reported on charges…
Tampa Bay area live music weekend: Matt Butcher, Jukebox the Ghost, Mystikal, Joe Satriani, 97X Next Big Thing with My Chemical Romance, and more!
Great music is happening all over town over the next four days and you’re wondering, “What should I choose?” Look no further. Everything you need to know is right here beginning with today. Wanna take a look beyond this weekend? Check out our Upcoming Concerts page. Thursday, December 2 [pictured right] / Scott Harrell Acoustic…
Top Chef Podcast – All-Stars Ep. 1: Back in the saddle
I have to say, the premiere episode of Top Chef All-Stars last night did not disappoint. There was drama, excitement, laughs, tears and we saw old and new Top Chef pals uniting. The challenges were fantastic and give me hope for the future episodes. For the Quickfire, the chefs had to team up by season…
Cigar City Brewing wins approval from the Tampa City Council to maintain its tasting room
The Tampa City Council on Thursday voted 4-3 to approve granting a permanent license for the tasting room at Cigar City Brewery, the internationally acclaimed brewery that the local neighborhood group wanted to shut down. This was the first reading of the vote. A second reading will take place on December 16 at 9:30 a.m.…
Movie & TV links for today, Thurs., Dec. 2, 2010: Iron Sky, Night Catches Us, Rabbit Hole, Terrence Malick’s The Burial and more …
Check out the gorgeous new poster for John Cameron Mitchell's Rabbit Hole, which stars Nicole Kidman and Aaron Eckhart. Iron Sky — the Nazis in space movie — is finally going into pre-production. This is almost 3 years after the concept trailers became a sensation online. (And it's from the same production company that made…
Offshore Atlantic wind farms providing jobs and new energy supply
According to the National Wildlife Federation media report, the Atlantic coast shows much promise in the advancing of offshore wind projects. Besides the proposal of six gigawatts (GW) of offshore wind projects along the coast — the equivalent of about five coal-fired power plants — Florida has a total of 40 GW of wind potential…
CL Holiday Auction Item #87: Private Rooftop Cocktail Class and Tasting at Fly Bar & Restaurant
Release your inner mixologist with this class and tasting for up to 10 people in one of downtown Tampa’s most dramatic settings: the rooftop bar at Fly. The bar’s expert mixmasters will provide an introduction to “creative cocktailing,” including education on ingredients and liquors; tastings of Fly’s signature cocktails, accompanied by complementary foods from the…
Andrew Gillum out in race for Florida Democratic Party chair – Rod Smith is home free
Tallahassee City Commissioner 31-year-old Andrew Gillum, who just 8 days ago told CL that he was determined to become the next chair of the Florida Democratic Party, announced this morning that he is dropping out of the race, and is endorsing Rod Smith. "Rod Smith is committed to delivering the reforms that the Florida Democratic…
Hillsborough Commissioners rebuke Ronda Storm bill, new anti illegal immigration bill proposed in the Sunshine State and Schnitt makes Drudge:Mitch Perry Report:12.2.10
Happy Hanukkah to all out there on this crisp Thursday morning. Hillsborough County Commissioners got busy in their first regular meeting with their three new members – Victor Crist, Les Miller and Sandy Murman. They and the old guard got into a lengthy discussion about whether or not to offer the full time job of…
Todd Schnitt gets what he always wanted – a link on the Drudge Report
We haven't had anything fresh to report this week on the biggest story of the world, the latest WikiLeaks document dump, this time of U.S. State Department cables, that has dominated worldwide coverage. It does seem like the vise is tightening on the controversial leader of that organization, Julian Assange,with the news that Interpol, the…
William Snyder says he wants Hispanic buy-in before he’ll push his anti illegal immigration bill
Bradenton state Senator Mike Bennett has been in the news in the past few days with his immigration enforcement bill that he has just filed. The proposal would allow law enforcement officers during a lawful detention or arrest to ask for the detainee's immigration documents if the officer suspects they may be in the country…
Neighborhood Dining Guide: Downtown Tampa
CL regularly presents focused listings of the best dining options in Tampa Bay's neighborhoods. This week we're giving you an updated guide to the restaurants in Downtown Tampa. ASHLEY STREET GRILLE 200 N Ashley Dr., Tampa, 813-223-2222; sheratontampariverwalk.com/dining This waterfront spot in downtown Tampa, located in the Sheraton hotel, features classic American cuisine, and was…
Oy to the world: The solution to a ho-hum Chanukah: Theme nights!
Until our children were born, almost 11 years ago, we hadn't realized how boring our Chanukah routine had become. Year after year, we'd light candles, sing prayers, open a gift, eat latkes, open a window and go to sleep. Eight nights in a row and that routine gets old. When we became parents, Husband and…
Palm Reader: Dennis Lehane belongs to us
It might turn into a literary turf war. There's no denying that Dennis Lehane has emerged as one of America's greatest novelists during the last decade and a half. His books have touched millions of readers and inspired a number of great Hollywood films, including Mystic River, Shutter Island and Gone Baby Gone. And, of…
Currying favor: A spice-a-phobe learns to love (and make) the Indian dishes her father grew up with.
When I was a kid, I would often be the last one at the table, poking at some okra coated in a neon yellow sauce, prodding at a piece of chicken smothered in red and thinking to myself, "How am I going to get rid of this stuff?" Spicy food was my nemesis; dinner, the…
Cheery O? The trouble with orgasms.
I'm a 21-year-old woman with bi-curious tendencies who's been in a committed relationship for four years. He's sweet and kind. We share a lot of interests and get along very well. Thing is, I don't know if I'm meant to be in a committed relationship. For the past year and a half, I've been thinking…
Let’s build something together: When artists collaborate, the results can be marvelous.
Round up 19 Florida-based artists and team them up in pairs (eight pairs, that is, and one threesome). Turn them loose to make at least one collaborative artwork. Showcase the results. The premise of Visual Unity 2, an exhibit on view at the Polk Museum of Art in Lakeland, is simple. It would really be…
Transit: Voters shot down the Hillsborough transit tax proposal.
One month ago, the dream of Tampa Bay as transit utopia took a licking, but it's not going anywhere. In the minds of transit true believers, Tampa Bay residents do want better options. The question is how to implement them. The answer, increasingly, is: Think regional. That sentiment surfaced recently in meetings of officials on…
After nearly nine years of inactivity, legendary DIY indie group Superchunk re-emerges refreshed, and with a new album in tow.
When Chapel Hill, NC legends Superchunk disappeared into a semi-hiatus not too long after the promotional cycle for their 2001 album, Here's to Shutting Up, few could argue that they'd earned it. Over the course of more than a decade and eight-odd full-lengths, the group had traveled the world countless times, built their own label…
My first year of gaydom — Heartbreak, grief and alcoholism (part 4)
Author's note: This is the second installment of a series of pieces that reflect on the year that I first discovered that I like women. I celebrated my "Bi-versary" on Oct. 5, 2010, and felt amazed by all the growth, changes, realizations and events that had occurred in the past year. I went from not…
Do It Today: Shirts for Simpletons at the SPoT and the Got Jokes? Big Bang Talent Show Finale
The Skatepark of Tampa has a good track record for throwing fun and original art parties. From their shindigs at the Bricks to their events in the skatepark itself, you can usually count on a good time — regardless of whether you ride the ramps and rails yourself or just want to get in on…
Concert review: Underoath at The Ritz Ybor, Ybor City (with photos)
I've started practicing a new tradition on my Thanksgiving break in the Tampa Bay area. Visit the family, grub on some turkey, and head out to The Ritz to cover Underoath. For the past few years, the Christian metalcore outfit and Tampa natives have either ended their tour here, or randomly played a show for…
CL Holiday Auction: New totals, new items, great deals
The CL Online Holiday Auction had a very nice Cyber Monday. And Tuesday. And Wednesday. As of this blog post, we've already raised $14,408.24 for The Children’s Home. That’s about $2,300 more than we raised during the 2009 auction — and we still have two weeks of bidding left to go. (Items begin closing Dec.…
Dissecting Dexter: Season 5, Episode 10 “In the Beginning”
"You don't miss a thing," Dexter says to Deb. And boy is he right. Dexter's biggest problem in this episode are The DVDs that Miami Metro finds of the rape victims. Besides providing the backdrop for a disturbing episode, The DVDs start a chain reaction that threatens Dexter and Lumen's cover. Deb figures out everything…
Tampa Bay food, wine and beer events
Wednesday-Wednesday, December 1-8: Dunderbak's Candles won't be the only thing getting lit this holiday season! Shmaltz Brewing Company has chosen 88 bars across the country to feature all 8 of their award-winning recipes of Jewbelation® during the 8 days of Chanukah and Dunderbak's is one of them. 14929 Bruce B Downs Blvd., Tampa, 813-977-4104; dunderbaks.com,…
CD review: The Hip Abduction, Sun King EP
The sunny shimmering suite of tracks on The Hip Abduction’s new Sun King EP were apparently influenced by legendary Zimbabwean musicians Oliver Mtukudzi and Thomas Mapfumo, both known for bringing outside influences into their culture’s traditional Shona music. The eight-piece St. Pete Beach-based ensemble fully introduces the Afro-beat vibe into their own brand of world…
The Green Community week in review: Arsenic in poultry, local green gift guide, vermicomposting and more
What’s the buzz on the latest issues in the Green Community? Check out what you may have missed last week: Undercover investigation of Publix egg supplier reveals 'animal abuse and food safety threats' – The Humane Society of the United States (HSUS) has reportedly witnessed food safety issues and abuse of caged chickens after a…
9 on-the-go business iphone apps
I don’t care what anybody says. You don’t need to be in the office to get work done. If you’re self-motivated, have the right tools and are good at time management, your iPhone and/or iPad can be an excellent accessory, and help free you from the confines of your cubicle (or office). If you’re in…
Top Chef Podcast – Just Desserts Ep. 10: To the bitter(sweet) end
And so we bade a bittersweet farewell to Top Chef: Just Desserts last night. Well, maybe it was more of a sweet farewell because I think most of us (who still watch) aren't all that upset about it being over. Hey, guess what?! There were no inane challenges or crazy twists in the episode! And…
BERLIN! Photos of the 3rd Annual Fall Creative & Performance Arts Showcase by Square One Entertainment
The third annual Fall Arts showcase from the Square One art collective was held Saturday at the Ritz Theater in Ybor City. The theme this year was BERLIN!, a celebration of artistic freedom in a time of separation. It was a creative and performance arts showcase featuring great art, hot bands and a lively stage show. There were…
Youthful indulgence: Fresh gives you permission to eat the way you would have liked to as a kid
There aren't a lot of gimmicks left in the restaurant industry that haven't been played out ad nauseam in both independent and chain spots, even here in the often behind-the-times Bay area dining scene. I'm talking novelty that's not just for novelty's sake, and innovation that appeals to the needs of the customers. But that…
