CD Review: Diplo, Riddimentary: Diplo Selects Greensleeves
It must be nice to be Thomas Wentz. The Philadelphia-based DJ – better known as Diplo – made himself the forbearer of dubstep in 2010, and as a reward for his hard work a legendary British reggae imprint opened up their vaults to let the Edgewater, Fla. native play curator on Riddimentary: Diplo Selects Greensleeves.…
CD review: The Civil Wars, Barton Hollow
The first time I heard The Civil Wars' breakout single "Poison & Wine," I about passed out from its all-around perfectness. Piano chords hesitantly keep up with a timidly thumping guitar, and two voices move in and around each other, seething with frustration but unable to untangle themselves. This is a pair of musicians who…
Concert review: An acoustic evening with Matisyahu at Tampa Theatre (with photos)
Following the Tampa Bay Jewish Film festival at the historic Tampa Theatre, Matisyahu made a brief appearance before his set at 7:30 p.m. The Hasidic Jewish reggae rock musician attracted quite the following and the sold-out show was definitely a testament to his wide and avid fan base. Tampa Theatre provided an entirely appropriate setting…
Florida Museum of Photographic Arts Celebrates Natural Fashion
The Florida Museum of Photographic Arts, a non-profit museum in downtown Tampa, held its first opening reception of the year last Thursday. Natural Fashion: Art and the Body features photographs by Hans Silvester and was welcomed to Tampa by an overwhelming crowd Thursday night. Natural Fashion exhibits thirty-nine color photographs by the German-born photographer/journalist/philanthropist Hans…
Local yokel: An egg “yolkaholic” comes clean about the pleasure of eating runny fowl yolk
My name is Hampton and I am addicted to runny yolks. Quietly sneaking out for some late night over-easing, mid-day poaching when my family is right there in the next room… Hell, I’ve even tried to capture some Ybor City street chickens and imprison them in the make-shift hen house in my shed. I wasn’t…
Scott quotes — very closely — from Reason report released in January on why high speed rail wasn’t good for Florida
In the first full week of January, CL posted a piece on a report released by the Liberatarian Reason Foundation that gave a "Florida taxpayer risk assessment" written by Wendell Cox and Robert Poole. Cox, who attended a Tampa Tea Party event back in September which featured former County Commissioner Brian Blair and others assembled…
Iorio slams Scott for decision to abort high speed rail in Central Florida
As Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio's reign in office comes down to its last weeks, the popular outgoing leader won't see her her dream of having light rail become a reality in the city happening under her watch. But at least there was the possibility of high speed rail coming to town by 2015, right? No,…
Album review/Show preview: Iration, Fresh Grounds + a Q&A with Iration bassist Adam Taylor in advance of the band’s Friday show at Jannus Live (with audio)
With their latest EP, Fresh Grounds, Iration’s island sound is brewed with a blend of catchy and soulful harmonic vocals that curl around swells of distorted and aggressive guitar riffs, bumping bass lines, kinky keys and crashtastic drums. The five tracks the Hawaiian-based rockers included on the EP create a wave-riding listening experience that builds…
In wake of Rick Scott’s rejection of high speed rail in Florida, St. Pete House Democrat Rick Kriseman introduces legislation allowing citizenry to recall state politicians
Although there had already been a Facebook page set up to recall Rick Scott, the fact of the matter is that for whatever reason, Florida law only allows citizens to recall locally elected officials. That's why St. Petersburg House Democrat Rick Kriseman introduced legislation today to remedy that. He did so shortly after Scott's decision…
Creative Loafing endorses Ed Turanchik for mayor of Tampa
Ed Turanchik gets slammed sometimes for dreaming too big. His resume is marked by wide-ranging efforts to make change happen — efforts that may not have always panned out, but that always reflected a vision for a better city. He tried to address the need for affordable housing with the Civitas project in 2004; as…
Kathy Castor calls Rick Scott’s rejection of over $2 billion for high speed rail “devastating”
Press releases from Democrats denouncing Rick Scott for his decision earlier on Wednesday to reject the $2.4 billion of federal funds already allocated to Florida for a high speed-rail-line are flying furiously through cyberspace. No doubt the business, political and professional classes in Tampa are shattered to hear this news (the Tampa 9/12 project is…
Photo review: Flogging Molly at The Ritz Ybor, Ybor City
Some shots from this past Sunday night's show featuring seminal Celtic punk rockers Flogging Molly at The Ritz Ybor. Check out the complete photo gallery after the jump.
CD review: Bright Eyes, The People’s Key
The release of Bright Eyes' The People's Key marks singer-songwriter Conor Oberst's 18th year of releasing music. The 30-year-old creative force and leader of the band has progressed from making obscure lo-fi recordings to critically-lauded multi-member odysseys, and has been lauded as "the new Dylan" by the press for his lyrical style, relevance and content. The…
Rick Scott rejects $2.4 billion in federal money for high speed rail
It shouldn't be surprising, considering that he unveiled his state budget nine days ago at a Tea Party-led event, yet it still is: Florida Governor Rick Scott has rejected $2.4 billion in federal funding for a high-speed rail route from Tampa to Orlando. He made that announcement at a quickly called press conference in Tallahassee…
Turanchik’s criticisms getting to Greco?; St. Pete officials “wowed” by unofficial proposal to redo the Pier, and a close read of the FDLE report on Pat Bean and Renee Lee: Mitch Perry Report 2.16.11
Good morning everybody. It's great to be writing this in CL's Ybor City office space this morning, after two days of being knocked off my keister due to a virulent flu virus that invaded my body over the weekend. Luckily, we started our recovery just in time to catch the latest Tampa Mayoral debate, as…
Japanese inventor builds machine that turns plastic bags into fuel
Though many cities, states and countries have banned plastic bags, it doesn't mean they're going anywhere any time soon. Besides the billions that are currently in circulation, there are billions more in landfills and in our oceans. And until someone comes up with a better solution to rid the planet of them, that's where they'll…
St. Pete officials say they’re impressed Carillon builder’s plans for Pier
A funny thing happened along with the way of Miami engineering consultant Bermello Ajamil & Partners presentation on what should happen with the St. Pete Pier, scheduled to go before the St. Pete City Council and then the public next week – they got preempted by a local developer on Tuesday. Darryl LeClair, the president…
FDLE reports slams Renee Lee – Beckner wants BOCC to look further into it
If you'll recall for a certain time frame in 2010, it seemed like the Hillsborough County Commission was paralyzed, meeting seemingly every other week to discuss whether to fire County Administrator Pat Bean and County Attorney Renee Lee for their offering to give themselves a 1% pay raise in 2007. County Commissioner Kevin Beckner called…
Theater Review: Jobsite’s The Odd Couple moves from marvelous to monotonous
Paul Potenza and Shawn Paonessa are so convincing as the leads in Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple, it comes as a shock to discover, a little way through Act II, that this couple is becoming monotonous. It’s worse than a shock: after all, these two formidable actors have easily delighted us in Act I, and…
The Gaily News: Brooklyn deli renames offensive sandwich, drug bust on the high seas, gay marriage debate in Indiana, Maryland
A popular deli in Brooklyn offering sandwiches with offensive names, such as "Butter Face" and "The Illegal," has changed the name of the "Gay Boy" to the "Garden Boy." The sandwich features egg, vegan bacon, vegan cheese, avocado, and sprouts in a sun-dried tomato wrap.
Turanchik blasts Greco on mid-’90s purchase of downtown police station
Ed Turanchik last night blasted former Tampa Mayor Dick Greco for leaving the city with a mountain of debt by the time he left office eight years ago. Specifically, he pointed to the purchase of the old Sun Trust Bank building in downtown Tampa to use as a new police headquarters in 1996, saying the…
Lightning fall to Flyers in shootout, gain point in Southeast Division race
To look at the standings, Tuesday's game between the Tampa Bay Lightning and the Philadelphia Flyers was a match up of the two best teams in the Eastern Conference. To look at the on-ice product, the game lived up to the hype. In one of the most exciting and intense games of the season, the…
Do It Today: Willie Nelson, Berlin ’36, DinoQuest at Lowry Park Zoo and more
Willie Nelson returns to the Bay area tonight to fill the giant oyster shell of Ruth Eckerd with his mellifluous and soulful croon. You gotta love Nelson for still sporting a self-possessed sincerity and dignity that distinguishes him from the fat cats in the country hall of fame. This past April, Nelson's Country Music, produced…
Bill’s Sports Binge: Pitchers and catchers punch the clock, the lockout crock, and a loogie hocked
Football's over, baseball barely called roll and March Madness isn't even in it's "I taste pennies" phase. We're in the proverbial eye of the sports hurricane, people and right now my bellybutton lint seems more exciting than the current goings-on. How's that for a lead in? This is why I suck at sales. When millionaires and…
Spoiler Corner: Glee, Grey’s Anatomy, Vampire Diaries and more!
Curious about your favorite shows? Is someone dying? If your favorite couple getting engaged? Hook-ups? Break-ups? Well, here you will find the answers to your burning questions! Enjoy television lovers! Glee The next few episodes will be filled with lots of Wemma goodness, but unfortunately not very much Blurt goodness. Although our favorite teacher and…
2011 Florida Renewable Energy Tour makes a stop in Tampa – Saturday, February 19
The Florida Alliance for Renewable Energy (FARE) is hosting this year's 2011 Florida Renewable Energy Tour in ten different cities in our state. They'll be making a stop here in Tampa Bay this Saturday, February 19, bringing with them tidings of renewable energy for our state. Be part of shaping the renewable energy and energy…
Mixology 101: Choosing a bar spoon and the proper way to stir cocktails (video)
Apparently, I've been doing it wrong this whole time. Bartender Evan Zimmerman, from Laurelhurst Market in Portland, OR, gives us mixology newbies the 411 on proper cocktail stirring and how to choose a bar spoon in this video below by Imbibe Magazine. Who knew there were so many darn types of stirring spoons and a…
Must-click links: Chaplin on Criterion, Jonny Greenwood scores another movie, Esperanza Spalding, movie posters, The Turin Horse and much more …
The Criterion Collection has announced its May slate and its a big one: Charlie Chaplain's The Great Dictator, Jonathan Demme's Something Wild and Masahiro Shinoda's Pale Flower all made the list. Also, Criterion has made dozens of films available for streaming through Hulu, including some titles that are not available on DVD. To the Best…
DVD review: A Man Within, featuring William S. Burroughs, Patti Smith, Steve Buscemi and more (with trailer video)
During a time when sexual and artistic expression were highly frowned upon, William S. Burroughs — a controversial figure to say the least — challenged society to question itself and its motives. As one of the leading writers of the Beat Generation, Burroughs had a significant influence on art, music and the literary world. In…
Day off on hump day? Attend the free Black History Celebration Wednesday morning in downtown Tampa
Attend a free celebration that’s guaranteed to be inspirational. The 23rd annual City of Tampa Black History Celebration (the theme: “Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve: The Importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities”) features Mayor Pam Iorio with Tampa City Council Chair Rev. Dr. Thomas Scott. Dr. Walter L. Smith, president emeritus of Florida…
Obama meets the press to defend his budget
In the 24-hours plus since President Obama released his $3.73 trillion budget, it, and the President, have been attacked by various politicians and groups on all sides of the political spectrum. From the right, Obama is said to have "punted," because he doesn't address the growing problems with our entitlement programs, ignoring his own deficit…
Concert review: Broken Social Scene at The Ritz Ybor, Tampa (with setlist and photos)
My introduction to Broken Social Scene was their 2001 debut, Feel Good Lost. For years I listened to that album over and over, its dark instrumental post-rock becoming one of my favorites. And then the band went and completely changed their sound, becoming the multi-membered indie stars they are now. Fortunately, their new sound was…
New music releases out this Tuesday, February 15: Mogwai, Cowboy Junkies, Deicide, PJ Harvey, The Twilight Singers, Drive-By Truckers, Ginuwine, and more (with lots of audio & video!)
Lots of tasty new music out this Tuesday, February 15. Check out all of the ones you want to know about (some with audio, some with video) below. Click here to check out new music releases that dropped last week (February 8) and here for new releases that have come out in the past several…
Learn more about MMA at the Florida State Fair this weekend
The Tampa-based mixed martial arts promotion, Art of Fighting, will host an inaugural MMA expo at the Florida State Fair this Saturday and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. "We wanted to bring something to MMA fans in Florida that will help grow the sport in our state and reward loyal fans with a…
Apply for the Sierra Club’s “Best Internship on Earth” for a summer full of outdoor adventures (video)
If you've got a certain love for the great outdoors, then this internship should be right up your alley. The Sierra Club is looking for an Outdoors Youth Ambassador intern who will spend this summer hiking, rafting, and exploring with the Sierra Club's youth programs around the country, and video blogging about their experiences. Bonus:…
The Florida State Fair: I thought I’d never go, but then…
There are certain things I never thought I’d do, like forget to shave my legs on a regular basis or curse at my DVR when it stopped working properly. I also never thought I’d attend a fair, theme park, or carnival and actually enjoy it. But here I am, getting older, unable to understand modern…
Kelly Benjamin slams St. Pete Times editorial board — and Charlie Miranda — for the paper’s endorsement of Miranda in the Tampa City Council District 6 race
The St. Pete Times endorsement of Charlie Miranda over Kelly Benjamin in the District 6 Tampa City Council race is not going over well with Benjamin, who has responded with a wicked denunciation of the editorial board, but also more explicitly blasts Miranda in a way that we haven't heard from him during the campaign.…
On the Radar: Bugging Out at MOSI
Leave the Raid at home and gain a new appreciation of creepy crawlies at the Museum of Science and Industry on Sat., Feb. 19. That’s when MOSI premieres its new, all-ages-friendly Bugging Out series. First, amble through Harry’s Big Adventure: My Bug World, an exhibit that features immersive virtual habitats and live activities that allow…
Ozzy and Slash bring hard rock and fine wine to the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa this Friday
I’ve always been a big fan of hard rock / heavy metal. In my high school years I avoided the disco/pop dominated craze like the plague. Well, there was that one Debby Boone album, but that was just for the cover. My record collection included bands like Van Halen, Iron Maiden, Motorhead, AC/DC, Ted Nugent,…
Reports of The Death of Books have been greatly exaggerated
Did you see the numbers for e-reader sales for last year, particularly the ones for the fourth quarter, as Christmas approached? Have you heard that eBook sales of bestsellers have been beating physical book numbers in the new year? Are you sick to fucking death of endless tastemaker proclamations, manufacturer projections and tech-blog suppositions heralding…
Buckhorn takes to the airwaves for the first time (video); Turanchik takes digs at his mayoral opponents in video
It's getting down to crucial time, as there are only two weeks left in Tampa's mayoral election campaign. Previously, only Dick Greco and Rose Ferlita have aired television ads boasting their credentials. Today Bob Buckhorn took to the airwaves with this wholesome ad featuring his wife and kids: Meanwhile, Ed Turanchik released this David Letterman-esque…
Gasparilla Distance Classic continues to offer Tampa area runners opportunity to support local charities
Ready, set … Gasparilla Distance Classic Association will host its annual Publix Super Markets Gasparilla Distance Classic on Feb. 26 and 27 in downtown Tampa. Participants have the option of running either a 15K, 5K, 5+3K or half marathon. Prices for current registration range from $30 to $75. The 15K will begin at 7 a.m.,…
Green Earth Literature Program infuses environmental education and entertainment for youths
According to Sandy Bauers from the Philadelphia Inquirer, Mallory Goes Green was one of the book winners of the 2011 Green Earth Award by the Newton Marasco Foundation (NMF). NMF created the Green Earth Literature Program featuring the Green Earth Award to “get more books with a message of environmental stewardship into the hands of…
Crepes get a savory makeover: Porcini mushroom crepes with lemon bechamel
When we think of crepes generally what comes to mind is a sweet, fruity dessert topped with fresh whipped cream, such as the famous Crepe Suzette with caramelized sugar, butter, orange and Grand Marnier liqueur. However, savory crepes have been making their way onto American menus for a while now, filled with everything from seafood…
New books on sex, love, and relationships
The Manual: What Women Want and How to Give It to Them by Anton: To every Lothario-in-training, Anton offers the following advice: -“Don’t be afraid to ask for what you really want. A woman knows already. Whether or not she says yes depends upon… -“CONFIDENCE. Women demand it. They can smell a lack of it…
Harry Cohen dominates in Tampa fundraising, Rick Scott lazily invokes Texas as Florida’s model, and Charlie Cook rips Mitt Romney: Mitch Perry Report 2.15.11
We got a kick about reading that at the Governors Luncheon at the State Fair yesterday, Tampa City Council Chairman, mayoral candidate and minister Thomas Scott implored Governor Rick Scott to okay high speed rail while giving the invocation. Even though private businesses who will bid for the Tampa-Orlando route may be compelled to make…
Among Tampa City Council aspirants, nobody is raising more money than Harry Cohen
The St. Pete Times today made endorsements in the four single member districts in Tampa, picking Harry Cohen in District 4, 26-year-old Herald Lord in District 5, Charlie Miranda over Kelly Benjamin in District 6, and Lisa Montelione in District 7. The Times calls Cohen "the sharpest candidate running for council this year," and not…
Rick Scott and other conservatives need to stop using Texas as an example of a state budgeting wisely
At the State Fair Governor's Luncheon in Tampa on Monday, Governor Rick Scott repeated his mantra that Texas, under Governor Rick Perry, has been the best state in the nation at economic development. "Texas has done a better job of building jobs than any place in the country by a long shot," he said Scott…
The Gaily News: Flash mob, angry grandma support gay marriage in Iowa, Donald Trump opposes same-sex nuptials, gay world record for longest kiss broken, Prince William’s lesbian stag party
As Iowa legislators mull over repealing its legislation that legalized gay marriage in 2009, a flash mob supporting same-sex nuptials in the state danced to the Beatles' "All You Need Is Love" in the statehouse rotunda yesterday. At the same time, a video by an Iowa grandmother supporting her gay son and expressing her outrage…
Do It Today: Alvin Ailey Dance Theatre’s Revelations, Helios Jazz Orchestra and karaoke post-VD therapy
The physically astounding and fluid dancers of the Alvin Ailey Dance Theater bring their breathtaking moves to Ruth Eckerd Hall tonight. The theme for tonight's show is an expanded take on a perennial favorite, Revelations. Considered a signature work, Revelations draws upon the late founder's "blood memories" of Texas, translated through the blues, spirituals, and gospel music. Ailey originally intended the dance to be…
Political expert Charlie Cook weighs in on some of the heavyweights running for the GOP nomination for president (part 1)
Charlie Cook is editor and publisher of The Cook Political Report, as well as a political analyst for the National Journal Group. He'll be appearing next Monday night at 7:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Hyatt Regency (more information below) to talk about the current political scene. In the first of a two-part interview, we spoke…
Eckerd College hosts 13th Annual Environmental Film Festival – February 18-26
The 12th Annual Visions of Nature/Voices of Nature Environmental Film Festival begins this Friday, February 18th. The festival brings films to the Tampa Bay area in order to raise awareness and promote discussion of questions relating to nature, place and the environment. This year's program begins at 7 p.m. on Friday with the winner of…
Restaurant News: Texas de Brazil steakhouse to open in Tampa, February 23rd
If the thought of large skewers of meat, cooked over an open flame and carved tableside gets you going, then you're in luck. Texas de Brazil, a Brazilian steakhouse that combines the cuisines of Southern Brazil with the "generous spirit of Texas," is set to open on Wednesday, February 23rd in the Westshore area of…
Concert review: Curren$y at Jannus Live, St. Petersburg (with photos)
Hip-hop force Curren$y played to a modestly packed Jannus Live last Thursday night, offering up a powerful and dexterous, albeit short, performance. …Which is fine, but don’t open the night with two hours worth of anyone and everyone in your posse wandering on and off stage, yelling random generalities on smoking weed/poppin' bottles in a…
Come together, theater folk — Jobsite plants seeds of inspiration for new theater guild
Enlivening the local live theater scene has been an ongoing challenge over the past few decades. Too many egos get in the way, but we don't need to tell you that, and what we're left with is a fractured scene with insular niches. One of the biggest hurdles has been getting quality theater companies —…
Jaded advice on what your husband really wants for Valentine’s: a threesome, a mancation…
While single women apparently need survival guides for Valentine's, single men use the day to celebrate their freedom by hunting the wounded and love-starved women nursing their loneliness at the local watering hole. For men in long term relationships, Valentine's is a day of obligation. While there are plenty of standard gifts for women—-flowers, chocolates,…
#MusicMonday, Vol. 28: Valentine’s Day playlist edition (with audio & video)
The CL Music Team kicks off the week with Valentine's Day-inspired selections and playlists that range from more traditional balladry to indie rock odes to anti-love songs. Leilani “Detroit,” The Bright Light Social Hour “Loving You Is Killing Me,” Aloe Blacc “Naive Melody,” Talking Heads “Dirty Little Whirlwind,” TV on the Radio “Love,” Air “Sweethearts…
A Night of Knights: photos from the 2011 Knights of Sant Yago Knight Parade
One of the largest celebrations of the year for Ybor City — part of the annual Gasparilla celebration — rolled down Seventh Avenue Saturday night. The parade route for 2011 Knights of Sant Yago Knight Parade was shortened significantly this year, encompassing only seventh avenue. But the crowds were loud, the beads were flying, and the parade goers were the best…
Must-click links: Grammy wrap, new Radiohead album, Atlas Shrugged, Michael Lewis, Rep. Giffords speaks and more …
WOO!!! Radiohead to release new album THIS SATURDAY!!!! Happy Valentines Day from Salon.com: Matt Zoller Seitz presents Cinema's great declarations of love. Major Grammy upsets included Arcade Fire winning coveted Album of the Year award and Jazz artist Esperanza Spalding taking home the Best New Artist award, beating out superstars Justin Bieber and Drake. Rep. Giffords: "Hi,…
“Pork Soda” beer debuts in Chicago (video)
What happens when you combine the pork craze (that doesn't seem to be going anywhere) with the current craft beer mania? Pork Soda! To be exact, it's beer. (Not to be confused with the song by Primus.) Chicago's Goose Island Brewery and Longman & Eagle Restaurant have teamed up to make this unique brew that's…
Florida politicians rally with activists for ban on offshore drilling
Political leaders rallied with local activists last Wednesday at Tallahassee's Old Capitol to raise support for a ban on near shore oil drilling. Former Governor Charlie Crist and CFO Alex Sink were among many petitioning for House Joint Resolution 383. If passed, Florida voters will be given the chance to vote for or against the…
The 2011 Grammys: CliffsNotes review by a douchebag
We open with a tribute to Aretha Franklin featuring Christina Aguilera, Jennifer Hudson, Florence Welch of Florence + The Machine, Martina McBride and a black chick who is not Jennifer Hudson. Christina’s mic doesn’t seem to be working properly – a problem that may be due to over-bedazzling. Jennifer Hudson looks and sounds great. Man,…
Will she be my Valentine? Relationship answers from Rebecca Ammon
Valentine's is the season of love. It's also the season of fumbled romance and missed connections as singles scramble for someone to play the role of a new lover. That also makes Valentine's the perfect time for relationship advice. This week's question comes from a reader who is flirting with being stuck in the friend…
Chocolate bliss: The best (not-so) little sheet cake in Texas
They say “Everything’s bigger in Texas”. I haven’t spent much time there, but if they’re talking about the airports, I’d say it’s true. Both the Dallas and Houston airports are huge! I know this because I’ve spent my share of time in each, wandering about and hopelessly lost, as I frantically tried not to miss…
EarthTalk: Have E-ZPass and similar programs reduced traffic and pollution?
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: Has the use of E-ZPass and similar programs to facilitate faster highway toll-paying cut down on traffic jams and therefore tailpipe pollution? Why…
Buckhorn & Turanchik get newspaper endorsements in Tampa mayor’s race; Pawlenty, Barbour & Gingrich fail to impress, and Andrew Breitbart gets served:Mitch Perry Report: 2.14.11
Happy Valentine's Day, MPR readers. (I wonder if this is some type of metaphor that I'm writing this from home, sick with a fever? Oh, never mind. In the Tampa's mayor's race, Bob Buckhorn and Ed Turanchik received key newspaper endorsements over the weekend, with Buckhorn getting the nod from the Times, and the Tribune…
Andrew Breitbart gets sued by Shirley Sherrod (video)
Over the weekend while he was addressing the CPAC conference in Washington, right-wing blogger Andrew Breitbart was served with a lawsuit by Shirley Sherrod, the former Agriculture Department employee who lost her job last year over a video that Brietbart posted at his site biggovernment.com. You'll remember that the video was edited so that it…
The proposal: big weddings vs. small weddings
About a month ago my boyfriend took me to the most "magical" place on earth: The Magic Kingdom. After posing for a picture on the side of the castle, he got on one knee and told me how beautiful I was and that he wanted to spend the rest of his life with me. The…
Unhappy Valentine’s Day: The Top 10 Most Miserable Songs, Ever (with video/audio)
Around the middle of the month I see Cupid walking past my apartment and I run outside to fuck some shit up. The cops get called, I go to jail, and February 15th, I wake up alone and as unromantic as ever. I have no romance to celebrate this year. I don’t even have a…
Do It Today: Tampa Bay Symphony, stand-up yuks, a sassy single-gal cabaret and more
Looking for something special to do with the other half for V-Day? Take in some beautiful music before making beautiful music together. The Tampa Bay Symphony under music director Jack Heller, with guest cello soloist Scott Kluksdahl, can be heard live at the Mahaffey Theater at 7:30 p.m. The program features Kluksdahl performing the Dvorak Cello…
I ♥ [heart] the Grateful Dead: a Valentine’s Day confession
I love the Grateful Dead. There. I've said it. Go ahead and judge me, I don't care. I know just how un-hip that makes me. Young, tattooed women these days often respond to that admission with something approaching "Ewww!" I love tattooed women, too. It's okay if they don't love me back. The thing is,…
T-Paw and Barbour start sounding serious about running for president in 2012
Now that it's Valentine's Day of 2011, it's not outrageous for political junkies to wonder who the heck is going to become the first major candidate to declare he's (or she's) running for the GOP presidential nomination for 2012 — forget about who the "front-runner" is (and no, Herman Cain doesn't count). The headline coming…
Tampa Tribune endorses Ed Turanchik to be Tampa’s next Mayor
In what has to be considered somewhat of a surprise, the traditionally conservative Tampa Tribune editorial board on Sunday endorsed Ed Turanchik to be Tampa's next mayor. Acknowledging his "long-shot status" and reputation for "being more visionary than practical," the traditionally staid editorial page says writes that they know former Mayor Dick Greco "can do…
Lightning hold on, beat Hurricanes in OT
The Tampa Bay Lightning met the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday night at the St. Pete Times Forum. Both teams also met the inside of their respective penalty boxes frequently as well, as the Lightning needed overtime go beat the Hurricanes in a penalty-filled affair. "With everything going on in the league right now, I am…
Gastronomic Gallery: Food photos from the Florida State Fair
Grilled Meatloaf Sundae The Florida State Fair hit town on Feb. 10. There was a lot of publicity about some of the new culinary offerings prior to the opening. I’m a meat and potatoes kind of guy and certainly don’t consider myself a food critic. I’ll leave that job to Katie Machol and Brian Ries. But…
Tampa Trib endorses Lisa Montelione over Joe Caetano in District 7; also endorse Harry Cohen, Frank Reddick & Charlie Miranda
On Saturday the Tampa Tribune endorsed candidates in City Council Districts 4-7. In District 7 (New Tampa), the paper is bypassing incumbent Joseph Caetano for Lisa Montelione, who entered the race at nearly the last hour. The editorial board calls her the best choice for the district because: She knows the whole county and understands…
Hillsborough County presents the 19th Annual Black Heritage Celebration in downtown Tampa
In times of despair, people come together to achieve great things and today was no exception at the 19th Annual Black Heritage Celebration. At Joe Chillura Courthouse Square in downtown Tampa, county officials came out to present the 2011 Legacy Award to Spencer Albert and to honor black-owned businesses that have stood the test of…
The CL Mayoral Debate Scorecard, Tweet Sheet & Drinking Game (video, photos)
Last night a capacity crowd gathered in Creative Loafing's events venue, CL Space, to hear a Tampa mayoral debate moderated by CL News & Politics Editor Mitch Perry. A diverse crowd listened (and in some cases tweeted) intently as the five candidates discussed a range of topics, from homelessness to transit, from the airport to…
Tampa Theatre hosts Tampa Bay Jewish Festival Sunday (w/special appearance by Matisyahu)
The Tampa Bay Jewish Festival is highly recommended this Sunday for movie fans and people who enjoy the historical splendor of Tampa Theatre. See Nora’s Will at 11 a.m. The film introduces us to Jose, whose wife, Nora, has committed suicide. Before she died, Nora devised a plan in order for him to take care…
At debate, Buckhorn attacks Greco for trying to get rid of set asides for women and minority businesses in Tampa
Dick Greco's apology on Thursday night about his comment comparing racial riots in the late 1960's in Tampa to a "panty-raid," has dominated coverage of the Tampa mayor's race the past few days. Bob Buckhorn said that he was "thankful" that Greco apologized, saying those comments "did a disservice to the victims families, that it…
Liquid love: Cocktails to enhance your amorous efforts
Chocolates, flowers and jewelry? I don't think so. Much like many other "Hallmark" holidays, Valentine's Day is really about the food and booze. The first big decision to make is where to dine (or what to cook), the second is what to drink and the third (for some) is what overpriced flowers and bling they'll…
St. Pete Times endorses Bob Buckhorn for Tampa Mayor
In what can't be considered a surprise if you've closely followed the editorials written so far in the St. Pete Times on the mayor's race, the newspaper this afternoon announced on their website that they are endorsing Bob Buckhorn in the March 1 election. In an excerpt, the editorial staff writes: The five candidates for…
Sierra Club’s Picnic for the Planet and bike ride – Saturday, February 12th
Meet with like-minded eco-minded folks at this cookout picnic and bike ride hosted by the Suncoast and Tampa Bay Sierra Club groups. It'll be a great way to meet fellow members and enjoy the great outdoors at the beautiful Philippe Park in Safety Harbor. The bike ride will commence at 10 a.m. a Philippe Park,…
Restaurant News: St. Pete Taco Bus to open Monday, February 14th
I am happy to announce that the Taco Bus #2 in the Grand Central District of St. Pete will be opening at 11 a.m. on Monday, February 14th. Closing time will be at 11 a.m. the following day. And yes, they'll be open through the night on Monday, so all of you 'Burg folks and…
Must-click links: Mubarak steps down, Lady Gaga’s “Born This Way,” X-Men: First Class, Conan 2.0, The Grandmasters and much more …
This just in: Egyptian president Hosni Mubarak has resigned; the military takes power. Lady Gaga releases new single Born this Way. After all the hype, it's a pretty damn underwhelming. I'll take Madonna's Express Yourself any day. Trailer for X-Men: First Class:
The Gaily News: antigay iPhone app, Maryland gay marriage protestor says its legalization will pave the way for android nuptials, Scott Mills nearly arrested in Uganda, and more
Gay advocacy group Truth Wins Out is railing against an antigay iPhone app that asks Catholics if they have been guilty of any homosexual activity. According to TWO, the app is ranked at number 22 in worldwide sales by iTunes.
Cheesemaker Willi Schmid brings his not-so-“Swiss” Swiss cheeses to Mazzaro’s in St. Pete
Switzerland: sun, hiking, mountains, biking, museums, culture, skiing, sledging and cheese! Cheesemaker Willi Schmid from Switzerland recently held a tasting with nine of his cheeses at Mazzaro’s Italian Market in St. Petersburg. He came all the way from Lichtensteig to talk about his love for each cheese and brought our friendly neighborhood cheesemonger Caroline Hostettler,…
“Where Are the Jello Shots?” Rabid Nick Refer reviews Justin Bieber: Never Say Never, starring the Bieb, Miley Cyrus and a theater full of screaming pre-teens (with video)
As I was set to return to Creative Loafing after a sabbatical in Siberia spent living amongst the wolf-people, my interest was piqued when the documentary Justin Bieber: Never Say Never popped up for review. Rabid Nick has a serious thirst for knowledge, and I crave the clean quench that only non-fiction cinema can provide.…
Unbreak your Art: Valentine weekend vis-art openings/events
If you choose to forgo the big ruckus-filled blowouts this weekend — i.e., the Florida State Fair and Ybor's Sant'Yago Illuminated Knight Parade — there's a bevy of wonderful gallery crawls and fresh-air art walks tonight and tomorrow night — in Dunedin, Ybor, Gulfport and Downtown St. Pete. Here's a handy list to help you…
Photo review: The Indigo Girls at The Ritz Ybor, Ybor City
With a large, diverse crowd providing word-for-word backing vocals for much of the evening, folk-rock duo The Indigo Girls showed their appreciation with another flawless performance. Even after more than two decades together, Amy Ray and Emily Saliers still seem to be having fun and it shows. If you missed last night's show at The…
Movie review: Kelly Asbury’s Gnomeo and Juliet, starring James McAvoy, Emily Blunt and Ashley Jensen (with trailer video)
The title Gnomeo and Juliet brings with it some measure of hope — however faint — of a knowing yet accessible parody of Shakespeare, one that maintains relevance for today’s audiences and youngest viewers while exhibiting the proper reverence for its esteemed source material. Such hope would be in vain. Instead, that weak and too…
Greco apologizes for “panty-raid” comment at CL debate, Florida Republicans want to move up their presidential primary, and Charlie Crist and Alex Sink come out of political hibernation to campaign for a constitutional amendment banning offshore drilling
Former Tampa Mayor Dick Greco last night apologized to those specifically in the black community who were offended by his comments at a mayoral forum earlier week that"it was more like a panty raid-type thing," when asked about race relations in Tampa, and specifically riots that occurred back in 1967. At the Creative Loafing Mayoral…
Fifty-four jewelers pledge against using gold from Alaska’s Bristol Bay this Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day is recorded as the biggest holiday for U.S. sales in gold. However, according to a new Earthworks press release, this Valentine’s Day, fifty-four jewelers—including Zale Corp., Helzberg Diamonds, Boucheron and others—have pledged not to use gold taken from the proposed Pebble Mine at the headwaters of Bristol Bay in Southwest Alaska. The proposed…
Tribune endorses Suarez, Mulhern and Jason Wilson in city wide Tampa City Council races
The Tampa Tribune today announced their first endorsements in Tampa's municipal elections to be held on March 1st, starting with the three City Council races that everyone registered voter can participate in when early voting begins a week from Saturday. Districts 1 & 3 are among the most crowded fields of the entire contest. Then…
A little history on aphrodisiacs and the “perfect” Valentine’s Day meal (rhino horn not included)
What does Valentine's day mean to you? For some, it's a day to justify being single and loathe all those mushy couples holding hands at the park. For others, it's a chance to express their love and appreciation for their partner. But most can agree that it's about the food. Thrugh the ages, immemorial people…
Will Floridians pass a measure banning offshore drilling off state waters?
Just a few weeks after there was an explosion on Deepwater Horizon offshore oil platform last April, creating the largest marine oil spill in history, three Democratic state Legislators in Florida – St. Petersburg's Rick Kriseman, Sarasota's Keith Fitzgerald, and Miami Beach's Dan Gelber, called on Governor Charlie Crist to hold a special session to…
Here we go again? Florida Republicans want presidential primary in January, Dems a little later
Was it just three years ago that Florida's January 29,2008 Presidential Primary election was boycotted by Hlilary Clinton and Barack Obama, with the DNC stripping Florida of its delegates until long after the nomination officially went to the U.S. Senator from Illinois? Yeah, of course it was. Those were some bitter days between friends and…
Valentine’s advice from relationship coaches, reality stars and self-help gurus
Every year near the end of January my inbox explodes with press releases from PR reps plugging clients who have the secrets to unlocking Valentine's Day. The advice covers everything from "how not to drop the L-bomb prematurely" to "tips for texting love letters." These "sexperts" include authors of self-help books, life coaches, and even…
Do It This Weekend (besides the Fair): Seance for No One, Dali look-alikes, parade hoo-ha, animatronic dinos, Woofstock and more
If you’re looking for inspiration for the Dalí Museum’s Third Annual Dalí Look Alike Contest & Event, just ask yourself — WWDD? (That’s short for ‘What would Dalí do?’) On Friday, the wacky costume-cum-performance-art party invites visitors to step into Dalí’s shoes by crafting an outfit, behavior or other spectacular display that pays homage to…
Tampa suspends top water rates — but questions remain as to what’s leading to huge water bills for some customers?
Acting upon a recommendation by Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio, the Tampa City Council on Thursday voted to suspend the two highest water rates as a means of reducing the massively high water bills experienced by thousands of citizens in the past few months — with over 500 claiming rate hikes ten times their normal bill.…
Bill’s Sports Binge: Putting a belated bow on the big Bowl
Daisy Duck and Minnie Mouse held each other's hands and breathed a tearful sigh of relief after the final ticks of Super Bowl XLV when they realized Big Ben would not be headed to Disney World…to rape them again (No, I won't let it go). The Packers brought the Lombardi Trophy back to the land…
Must-click links: 100 greatest British films, Egypt in transition, DiCaprio in Eastwood’s J. Edgar, Obamacare, Natalie Portman, the end of trends and much more …
Time Out London: 100 greatest British films. Egypt's military to Protesters: "Demands will be met." First Look at Leonardo DiCaprio in Clint Eastwood’s J. Edgar. The Daily Beast: Four reason's the Supreme Court will uphold Obama's health care reform bill.
Whither The Pier? Renovate or replace? Differing ideas on the future of a St. Petersburg icon
"This is a city — and also a national — treasure," says St. Petersburg City Councilman Wengay Newton of the venerable St. Petersburg Pier. On this Friday afternoon in early January, sitting in the Columbia Restaurant on the Pier's fourth floor with a panoramic view of Tampa Bay, it's hard to argue with him. But…
The “plight” of the honey bee is affecting pollinated food sources globally
Honey bees are largely responsible for about a third of the global pollination of farm output. Needless to say, the honey bee is a valued component in food security. But since 2006, there has been a steep decline in bee colonies that have gone under the public radar up until recently. So what sparked the…
Buddy Johnson not criminally charged; a kinder, gentler (sort of) Tampa mayoral debate, and who’s going to be the GOP nominee for President in 2012? Mitch Perry Report 2.10.11
The big news locally today is the report that the FBI will not be charging former Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Buddy Johnson with any criminal violations. This is obviously important news for Johnson, but his reputation will always be left in tatters, for the incompetent way he ran his office. We spoke this morning…
Longtime attendee at Tampa City Council meetings, Moses Knott Jr., dies at the age of 74
The Tampa Tribune's Kathy Steele reports the sad news that Moses Knott Jr., who regularly attended Tampa City Council meetings for over 30 years, died on February 3 at the age of 74. Knott Jr. was a voice for the voiceless and less powerful at City Hall. I covered City Council meetings virtually every Thursday…
FBI says former Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Buddy Johnson won’t be charged with any criminal violations
Former Hillsborough County Supervisor of Elections Buddy Johnson, whose competence was challenged on a host of issues during his time in office, will not be charged with any criminal violations by the FBI. That news came down on Wednesday. The St. Petersburg Times reported that in March of 2009, the FBI seized papers related to…
Restaurant Review: Give in to the temptations of The Burg Bar
The Burg Bar Bar & Grill 3.5 stars 1752 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-894-2874, theburgbar.com There’s a certain freedom — joy, even — in the simple pleasure of ignoring dietary concerns and self-imposed culinary constraints to revel in unrepentant gluttony. Some people find opportunities to engage in this behavior frequently, but like a drug, repeated…
Marital espionage: Private eyes who spy on cheating spouses
In a waterfront hotel in Tampa, a Miami businessman sits gulping $14 martinis in a dim corner of the lobby bar. A young woman with dark hair and a red dress enters. The businessman approaches her, tries to shake her hand, then accepts an awkward hug. They return to the corner of the bar and…
His favorite things: Kent Lydecker, new director of St. Pete’s Museum of Fine Arts, takes us on a tour
Last October, the Museum of Fine Arts welcomed a new director, Kent Lydecker, who spent 18 years managing the education department at New York's Metropolitan Museum of Art before landing in St. Petersburg. In the months since, Lydecker has been busy familiarizing himself with MFA's expansive collection. Through Lydecker's eyes, the MFA collection looks like…
The cheating kind
I've written before, but I didn't hear back from you — probably because my e-mail didn't contain flogging or santorum or whatever. But I won't be IGNORED, Dan. I'm a 32-year-old female. Second marriage, two kids: one kid with my ex and one with the man I cheated on my ex with (my current husband).…
Recipe: Easy strawberry trifle “Tiramisu”
When you think about Valentine's Day, what first comes to mind? For most people, it evokes images of roses, Champagne and chocolates in heart-shaped boxes. But for some, the first thing that comes to mind is a decadent dessert. (Well, for me at least.) I know this is hard to believe, but there are many…
You’ll love The Burg (Bar)
There's a certain freedom — joy, even — in the simple pleasure of ignoring dietary concerns and culinary constraints to revel in unrepentant gluttony. Some people find opportunities to engage in this behavior frequently, but like a drug, repeated abuse results in reduced pleasure. Better in small doses. Well, small doses of very big food.…
The uncertain future of The Pier, a St. Petersburg icon under siege
"This is a city — and also a national — treasure," says St. Petersburg City Councilman Wengay Newton of the venerable St. Petersburg Pier. On this Friday afternoon in early January, sitting in the Columbia Restaurant on the Pier's fourth floor with a panoramic view of Tampa Bay, it's hard to argue with him. But…
Dining options for Valentine’s Day/Weekend 2011
Valentine’s Day/Weekend Menu Offerings
Theater Review: The Frogs is first show in freeFall Theatre Company’s new home
About a third of the way into Act II of The Frogs, Matthew McGee makes his first appearance, and the evening's comedy finally blossoms. Up until that moment, this freeFall Theatre production — the first in its new permanent home — has been pleasant and mildly funny, but not otherwise very remarkable. Then McGee appears…
Mouthy kids? Nine things you can do instead of shoot them
According to police reports, Julie Powers Schenecker, a 50-year-old Tampa mom, shot and killed her two teenage children because they were "mouthy" and talked back. Most moms are familiar with the frustration brought on by disrespectful children. But clearly, killing kids before they get to that wonderful age where they realize you were right about…
My blue Valentine
Cheese and chocolate, cheese and Champagne, cheese as an aphrodisiac and even heart-shaped cheese. All are worthy topics with Valentine's Day upon us, but did you know that legend says the mischievous ancient Roman deity Cupid is the reason we have blue cheese? Some 2000 years ago, a young impassioned French shepherd sat down for…
The Illusionist is an ode to a lost way of life
The latest animated film by acclaimed director Sylvain Chomet, The Illusionist can be seen as a simple eulogy for an extinct way of life. The film takes place in a melancholy Edinburgh populated by aging vaudevillian performers trying to stay alive in a fast-changing modern world that has left them behind. We center on Tatischeff,…
Theater Review: Billy Elliot: The Musical joyous, resonant at the Straz
I didn't know quite what to expect from Billy Elliot: The Musical. I hadn't seen the much-beloved 2000 film on which it's based, and all I knew of the stage adaptation was the frenetic excerpt performed at the 2009 Tonys, during which Billy hauled in 10 awards, including Best Musical (though not one for Elton…
Do It Today: Oy Vey! My Son is Gay, Florida State Fair and kickball kickoff
Attention film lovers — the Tampa Bay Jewish Film Festival continues. See La Rafle at 7 p.m. at Muvico Baywalk, and director Evgeny Afineevsky introduces the 9 p.m. screening of Oy Vey! My Son is Gay! starring Lainie Kazan and Carmen Electra. Visitors can meet the director at 7:30 p.m. during a pre-show reception at Mindy…
Marital espionage: The private eyes who catch spousal lies
In a waterfront hotel in Tampa, a Miami businessman sits gulping $14 martinis in a dim corner of the lobby bar. A young woman with dark hair and a red dress enters. The businessman approaches her, tries to shake her hand, then accepts an awkward hug. They return to the corner of the bar and…
Score some points on Valentine’s Day with this strawberry “tiramisu” trifle
When you think about Valentine's Day, what first comes to mind? For most people, it evokes images of roses, Champagne, and chocolates in heart-shaped boxes. But for some, the first thing that comes to mind is a decadent dessert. (Well, for me at least.) I know this is hard to believe, but there are many…
The Green Community week in review: Plastic-free February, antibiotics overuse in farm animals, agave as biofuel and more
What’s the buzz on the latest issues in the Green Community? Check out what you may have missed last week: EarthTalk: Reducing global population pressures – Global population numbers continue to rise, as does the poverty, suffering and environmental degradation that goes with it. Has the U.S., under Obama, increased or at least restored its…
Top Chef Podcast – All-Stars Ep. 8: Fuggetaboutit!
After yet another week-long hiatus, Top Chef All-Stars is back in action. I'd also like to point out that last night's episode was significantly more enjoyable due to the fact that we didn't have to suffer through any more of Marcel's boasting, bitching or gang signs. The guest judge for the Quickfire was one of…
Green Community Calendar weekend events: Permaculture courses, Fresh Market at Wiregrass, guided hikes and more
Looking for something green-related to do this weekend? Look no further than our own Green Community Calendar. Dunedin Green Market- Fridays: 8 am-1 pm, Saturdays: 9 am-2 pm (through April). Featuring fresh, local produced goods such as baked good, ready-to-eat-foods, organic plants and herbs, coffee, honey, seafood, clothing, and so much more. The Dunedin Green…
Great Spanish wine for cheap
Bern's Fine Wines and Spirits in Tampa is running a special on Borsao 2005 Crianza at $15.95 per bottle, $172 per case. A grenache, tempranillo and cabernet blend, my notes from a recent Spanish wine tasting: "bright cherry fruit, raspberry and sultry, elegant tannins. Plenty of depth and structure in a really inexpensive wine." This is a frickin'…
Erath 2006 Pinot Blanc Willamette Valley
Pinot Blanc is one of those obscure grapes people hear about but don't get to taste very often. Originally from the Alsace region in France, the grape sports tart acidity and citrus but tastes full bodied like a chardonnay. This Oregon version has pear, lime and green herb flavors with a refreshing mineral finish. Decent…
