Ask Dream Momma: driving on the highway to hell
"Dream Momma, I’m a Tampa guy who never remembers dreams but this one I sure did. I woke up with my heart thumping in my chest. Heard about you, read Creative-Loafing and eventually found your blog so I thought you could help me figure this one out. In the dream, I’m on the ground driving…
Photo review: Selby plays Best Buy in Clearwater, Florida
Although Best Buy might not top the list of cool, Tampa Bay-area music venues, that may soon change. Last night, modern pop/rock group Selby followed the success of a recent in-store promotion by metal band Disturbed with a well-received live performance of their own. Performing from the center of the Best Buy Music Instruments department,…
Do It Today: MLK’s son at USF and the art of Ben Hamburger
Martin Luther King Jr.'s son, Martin Luther King III, makes an appearance at USF as part of a campus-wide initiative that examines MLK's life and work. Hear him speak from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at the Marshall Student Center Ballroom, and meet him afterward at the Centre Gallery for a book signing at 9 p.m.…
Changing the definition of craft beer
What is your definition of "craft" beer? Did you know there was an official definition? According to the Brewers Association, the trade association representing the majority of U.S. brewing companies, the definition is "small, independent, and traditional." Independent simply means that "less than 25% of the craft brewery is owned or controlled (or equivalent economic…
Tampa City Council Chair Tom Scott discusses why he should be Tampa’s next mayor
Tampa City Council Chairman and mayoral candidate Thomas Scott showed a taste of his other, non political life last week at the end of his presentation before the GaYBOR monthly meeting, where the first time that all six of the candidates for mayor spoke at one time under one roof. Scott, who serves as the…
The Suncoast Surfrider Foundation’s 2011 kickoff beach party at The Postcard Inn – Saturday, January 22
On Saturday, January 22nd, Join the Suncoast Chapter Surfrider Foundation for their 2011 kickoff party at The Postcard Inn on St. Pete Beach from 6 – 11 p.m. The Suncoast Chapter‘s annual party gives thanks for a successful 2010 while kicking off the 2011 season. The group had a record breaking year accumulating 25 events…
The sweet and the savory: Bread pudding two ways (recipes)
Who doesn't love bread pudding? It is warm, comforting, inexpensive and incredibly easy to prepare. It also makes for a great last-minute or make-ahead brunch or dessert dish, as you can have the ingredients prepped in no time and either throw it together and pop it right into the oven, or let it sit in…
Bill’s Sports Binge: Pathetic playoff picks, Bucs boast cheaper tix and drinking and sledding don’t mix
And then there were four. If you went to your local bookie after taking my picks for the NFL Divisional Playoffs to bet the farm and wish to contact me about it, my name Peggy. You have problem? But let's face it, my prognosticating methods are a bit unconventional (see: demented). I picked Seattle for one…
Concert review: Lost In The Trees at Orpheum, Ybor City (setlist)
North Carolina folkestra Lost In The Trees played an intriguing set at Orpheum in Ybor City. Though the size of the crowd indicated it was a Monday night with only around 50 people packed into the dark pit of a bar, the quality of the performance didn't suffer in the least and will likely be…
Kanye West, Kings of Leon & Arcade Fire the big headliners in Coachella 2011 line-up
For those who have attended the Coachella Valley Music & Arts Festival in Indio, California in the past, there is always much anticipation at this time of year about who will be performing at what many contend is the country's best rock music festival (with apologies to Bonnaroo & Lollapalooza) that takes place every spring…
MOSI’s Science Cafe: “Supplying Our Energy Addiction” – Friday, January 21
This Friday, MOSI's monthly Science Cafe meeting will be all about energy — the political, scientific and economic issues surrounding it that will affect us and future generations. The Science Cafe is welcoming guest speaker Dr. Yogi Goswami, Co-Director of the Clean Energy Research Center at USF, who is an expert in all areas of…
Theater review: Rock of Ages rolls out a high-energy nostalgia fest of bad hair and cornball humor
The 16-year-old me would shudder in disbelief if told I'd attend a musical that celebrates the power ballads of the '80s and feathery hair bands. But there I was getting my butt rocked by Journey and Foreigner songs during the Broadway touring production of Rock of Ages at Ruth Eckerd Hall. The scene depicted in…
Jobs Creation Summit set for this Friday in Clearwater
In what ultimately would be considered an iconic part of his successful campaign, St. Petersburg House Republican Jeff Brandes last fall aired a television ad where he discussed how local businesses like the one he used to work at were under siege in Florida, due to a surfeit of higher taxes and government regulations. He…
Joe Lieberman to quit, Rose Ferlita delivers her policy positions, and Tampa Republicans feud: Mitch Perry Report:1.19.11
Let's be honest. Hate is a strong term, but a lot of Democrats across the country might not hesitate to use that word when it comes to their feelings about 68-year-old Connecticut independent U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman, who will announce today that he will not run for a fifth term as Senator of the Nutmeg…
Looking for a “green” degree? Search the Green Degree Directory
Are you looking to earn some type of certification in sustainability? What about a degree in environmental studies? Look no further than Green Degree Directory. A site that offers easy to use search filters to help you further your education, listing everything from higher level degrees to certification courses in a variety of fields in…
Tampa Bay food and drink events
Wednesday, January 19: Publix Apron's Cooking School Couple Cooking – A Night in Italy: Learn how to prepare Italian classics with your amore. Menu includes: Spaghetti al la Pomodoro; Involtini di Melanzane; Mussels Arrabbiata; Veal Saltimbocca; Limoncello and Tangerine Sorbet filled Oranges. Register here. $80 per couple; 6 p.m. 7835 Gunn Hwy, Tampa; 813-926-4465, publix.com/aprons/schools/Tampa…
Taking the Freud stick by the short end: a look at small penis humiliation
When I read Shawn Alff's post on The Penis Name Book, I knew I had to say a few words on the subject of humiliation: specifically, small penis humiliation. Believe it or not, some guys actually want a woman to point and laugh at their wee winkie. These men would never dream of describing their…
Do It Today: Free art and avant-garde music, The Lion in Winter and Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom
In the mood for something fascinating and different but academically accomplished and complex? No, I'm not talking about your bipolar cousin in graduate school — we're talking about college-y stuff that's way more appealing, like the University of Tampa presenting a pair of free concerts exploring the diversity of American Modernism. First, there will be…
Lightning beat Blue Jackets 3-2 in shootout
The Tampa Bay Lightning returned to home ice Tuesday night after two days off, hoping to put an end to a two-game losing streak when they took on the Columbus Blue Jackets. It was an interesting test for a Lightning team that has struggled against teams below .500 this year. It was a test the…
Concert review: of Montreal brings their psychedelic glitz and funked-out glamour spectacular to The Ritz Ybor, Ybor City (with photos)
If there’s one thing I can depend on in my concert-going life, it’s getting my hop-socks rocked off by of Montreal while shifting and moving amidst a circle of similarly dance-ecstatic friends, all of us enjoying plenty of stop-and-awe moments, gazing at the stage with mouths grinning and agape, or loudly singing our favorite lyrics…
Rose Ferlita unveils her priorities on website
When we visited with Tampa mayoral candidate Rose Ferlita a week and a half ago, she informed CL that she would soon be coming out with her own detailed policy paper – on her timeline. This afternoon the former city council and county commission member did just that today, producing what she is calling the…
Concert review: An Evening with Cake at Jannus Live, St. Petersburg (with photos)
There’s something delightfully odd, even kind of lovable, about Cake frontman John McCrea. His deadpanned, half-sung delivery; the implicit, oft-coded tales of subjects like girls with minds like diamonds and fingernails that shine like justice; his undying love for the vibraslap, quite possibly the most awesome sounding piece of auxiliary percussion in existence… McCrea is…
Buckhorn to host town-hall meeting via his Facebook page
The Tampa mayoral race is, well, if not "heating" up, perhaps thawing out a bit. There are dozens of forums and debates that will start taking place over the course of the next six weeks, but Bob Buckhorn wants to make it a little easier for the interested Tampa voter to learn about what he's…
Spoiler Corner: Gossip Girl, PLL, 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! Gossip Girl New episodes air next monday and the scoop is good for this week's episode. Lily seems to have tried to sell Chuck's company…
Water Cooler: Scott dumping rail? Crist’s boy Pinocchio; Blowhard Bunting;
The Water Cooler is a snapshot of some of the things people are talking about in politics By Chris Ingram Rick Scott is on the right track in abandoning rail Though he hasn’t formally announced a position on the high-speed rail boondoggle between Tampa and Orlando, Governor Rick Scott appears to be heading that way. Scott’s…
A healthier way to snack?: Smoothie King taste test
Whether you're looking for a healthful snack or a meal replacement, smoothies can be a nutritious option. They're also great alternatives over fast food when you're on the go. Recently, I took part in a tasting at Smoothie King to taste some of the smoothie creations they're promoting for healthier diet in the new year.…
REHAB event at The Roosevelt 2.0: Moving towards a sustainable culture – Wednesday, January 26
in Ybor invites the community to celebrate the launch of R.E.H.A.B. — an event that looks at five innovative and sustainable living concepts. "REHAB envisions a rehabilitation from 'business as usual' through the culmination of new techniques in community development, financial practices and business methods," states the event's press release.
The Gaily News: Gay marriage in New York, D.C., Facebook founder announces engagement, UK students marry for art
The Supreme Court has rejected the National Organization for Marriage and the Alliance Defense Fund's appeal of a ruling that made gay marriage legal in Washington, D.C. Same-sex marriage became legal in D.C. last March. New York Governor Andrew Cuomo could be setting the stage for a move to legalize gay marriage in New York,…
CD review: The Decemberists, The King Is Dead
Even though I consider myself a huge fan, I’m never really sure what a new album from The Decemberists is going to sound like. It has always felt as though Oregon's indie darlings have an ongoing case of musical multiple personality disorder, as they seem to fully embrace a new genre with every release. There’s…
DC House Republicans psyched to debate repeal of “ObamaCare”; New poll shows support for some gun control legislation, and atheists in the military spokesman to speak in Tampa: Mitch Perry Report 1.18.11
For those of you fortunate enough to enjoy the MLK Jr. national holiday, welcome back to the working week. In Washington, today begins debate on repealing the health care legislation passed last March. Tampa area Democrat Kathy Castor says it's a fact that the deficit will rise without the bill's enactment, while Fort Myers Republican…
New polls show support for some type of gun control legislation: Washington Republicans, do polls only count when it’s about health care?
We have two different posts written this morning about the debate on health care repeal that will take place in Washington today. As we mention in our Connie Mack post, he and his GOP colleagues consistently trot out the reason that they must repeal health care is that the American people don't want it, when…
Interview with Sweetwater Organic Farm founder Rick Martinez (video)
Watch the interview below with Sweetwater Organic Community Farm's founder, Rick Martinez. Martinez talks about the CSA farm, activities, workshops and the zoning issues they're facing. Currently, the farm is under threat and facing zoning charges due to re-zoning issues. Martinez is calling on supporters of the farm to reach out to Hillsborough county commissioners…
Feelin’ Gru-ve: Grüner Veltliner, the sommelier’s friend
As a food and wine writer, I am frequently faced with a couple of challenges. One is being asked to bring a wine to dinner at someone's home without being given much information about the menu. The other is being asked to choose a wine for the table at a restaurant where everyone is having…
Florida’s Connie Mack says Dems and Republicans DO need to come together – to repeal health care, that is
Fort Myers area Republican Congressman Connie Mack IV, an all but declared candidate for the Republican nomination for U.S. Senate in 2012, appeared on MSNBC's Morning Joe program this morning in New York to discuss various issues in the news. When he was asked by hosts Joe Scarborough and Mika Brzezinski if he would sit…
Joe Lieberman to step down from U.S. Senate – Democrat Ken Conrad as well
Connecticut independent U.S. Senator Joe Lieberman will announce later today that he will not run for re-election in 2012, ending a career in the Senate that began in 1988. The Nutmeg State's former secretary of state, Democrat Susan Bysiewicz has already shot out of the gate in what tri-state observers say will be an extremely…
AltDotPop: Gucci Mane’s Face Tattoo, Golden Globes Worst Dressed, Twilight Sex Scene Photos Released, New Spiderman Suit and more…
Sometimes I like to start slow and ramp up to a big story. But this week I am starting with the biggest story of the year. Gucci Mane got a tattoo… on his face… of an ice cream cone… and the words "Brrr"… and lighting bolts… in red, obviously. Memo to Gucci Mane: It's been…
New music releases out this Tuesday, January 18: Cobra Skulls, The Decemberists, Damon Fowler, Pearl Jam, Social Distortion, Warpaint, and more! (with audio & video)
The new music in 2011 continues and this week, we've got a boatload of releases! Click here to check out new music releases that dropped last week (January 11) and here for new releases in the past several months… , Low Country Blues (Rounder) The Allman Brothers' Band frontman releases his first solo record in…
Insurance group says focusing on texting ban while driving isn’t enough
In the current issue of CL we've written an article about the potential for Florida to join 30 other states around the country who have already enacting laws banning texting while driving. Eight other states go further than the Sunshine State, and ban hand-held cellphone use in autos. In our piece, we quoted Ellyn Bogdanoff,…
Do It Today: Rock of Ages, Beauty and the Beast and more
Two very different Broadway shows take over big venue stages tonight — and both can be seen tonight through Sat., Jan. 23. First, experience the hair, nostalgia and bad fashion of Rock of Ages at Ruth Eckerd Hall. The arena-rock extravaganza is a five-time Tony Award nominee with songs from Foreigner, Pat Benatar, Journey, Poison,…
Military Association of Atheists & Freethinkers president to speak in Tampa
The U.S. Army now includes what is called a Spiritual Fitness section as part of their mandatory Comprehensive Soldier Fitness test. Launched in the fall of 2009, the Spiritual Fitness test is what the Army calls part of a Comprehensive Soldier Fitness program used by the Army to enable "soldiers, family members and Army civilians…
Baker’s Chocolate brownies: If it ain’t broke… (recipe)
There’s an old saying that goes, “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. I think its meaning is self-explanatory. I also think that it applies very well to cooking and baking. Foodies, especially those of us that blog, are always looking for the next best thing when it comes to recipes. We often dismiss the…
St. Pete welcomes Suncoast Electric Vehicles, Florida’s first all-electric car dealership
This past weekend, 4th Street in St. Pete welcomed a new business that's a few shades greener than the rest: Suncoast Electric Vehicles. They're not only the first all-electric car dealership in the Tampa Bay area, but also first in the state. The EV dealership, located on 4th Street North and 24th Ave. North, is…
GOP-led House to begin debate on their dream of repealing health care bill
Tampa area Democratic Congresswoman Kathy Castor thinks the new House Republicans are making a big mistake by focusing on repealing health care as their signature initial item to address this week in Congress, and apparently more Americans are starting to side with her. An AP-Gfk poll released on Sunday, finds 40 percent support the new…
The Gaily News: Gay at the Golden Globes — Glee wins big, Annette Bening and The Kids Are All Right, Ricky Gervais pokes at Scientologists
Everyone is talking about the Golden Globes. And the LGBT community was well represented last night. Fox’s hit show "Glee" racked up the awards at this year’s Golden Globes. Not only was it named best comedy or musical for the second year running, but Chris Colfer and Jane Lynch walked away with awards for best…
Greatest Sundance hits: Must-see indie classics
Sundance starts up again this week, and I'll be there to cover the highlights with a group of my students. In preparation, here's a list of some of the greatest Sundance hits since the festival got its improbable start in the snowy mountains of the cozy resort town of Park City, Utah. (I'm updating a…
CL Feature: The Bright Light Social Hour, an Austin foursome that brings their Southern grimy funk-dance-prog-psyche rock to The Hub on Thursday (with video)
No indie rock band has ever banked on the marketability of a mustache quite like The Bright Light Social Hour did with bassist/singer Jack O’Brien’s handsome handlebar. In fact, the shaggy ‘stache earned the Austin foursome a good chunk of the money to record their 2010 eponymous debut. “We’d heard about a lot of bands…
EarthTalk: 75% of world’s fisheries are overexploited or significantly depleted
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: What is being done to enable ocean fish populations to rebound after being so over-fished? Are nations coming together on this in any…
Gateway microbrews for the novice craft beer drinker
Light, cold, crisp, drinkability are all terms that are used to describe most of the brews in the macro beer scene. Brands like Coors, Miller, Bud and Busch all boast about how light and flavorless they all are. Sure, someone who enjoys slamming 30+ brews might be drawn to their water-like quality — and, if…
How to keep that relationship spark burning
Every relationship is different. Some people fall in love in months while it takes others years. No matter what the particulars of your situation, the key to any relationship is to keep that fire of attraction stoked and burning strong. You should not have to battle just to keep a relationship alive, but like a…
Do It Today: Soul Roll Invitational Skate Jam Gospel Skate and Festival of Chocolate at MOSI
It's a bummer that a nasty downpour is interfering with the MLK festivities today, but don't fret — there are two really cool and fun indoor events to take the pain of the rain away. No cancellations announced; let's keep our fingers crossed. In the meantime, for indoor fun, the Soul Roll Invitational Skate Jam…
First Tampa mayoral forum of the season takes place; TIA direct flights to Cuba about to happen? And Chris Christie & Tim Pawlenty on Fox News – is the wrong Republican running for President? Mitch Perry Report:1.17.10
Happy MLK Day to each and every reader out there on this very wet and stormy morning in Tampa Bay. We want to lead off today's report with our story that we posted Friday night – that being the first Tampa mayoral forum of the 2011 campaign. It was rather low key- a late afternoon…
Pawlenty & Christie – one GOP presidential aspirant among them- but is it the wrong one? (video)
On Fox News Sunday yesterday, two big name Republicans faced host Chris Wallace's line of questioning. One was former Minnesota Governor Tim Pawlenty, who is all but officially a candidate for the GOP 2012 nomination. The other was Chris Christie, the rambunctious New Jersey Governor, who is one of the party's rising stars, and a…
An Inconvenient Truth presentation at SPC – Wednesday, February 9
Without a doubt, this might be the most terrifying presentation you will ever attend. Adrian Brunari, personally trained by Vice President Al Gore and charter member of The Climate Project, will present the updated information as seen in the Academy Award winning documentary An Inconvenient Truth. Mr Brunari's area of expertise is policy and solutions,…
Get your fix: Chocolate Sunday at Ruth Eckerd Hall – Sunday, January 23
Get your chocolate fix this Sunday, when Chocolate Sunday comes to Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater. This sweet event will feature chocolatiers, confectioners, pastry chefs, mixologists, chocolate sculptors and other culinary artisans. To satisfy your sweet tooth, Chocolate Sunday will also include chocolate tastings with over 40 vendors participating, as well as contests, chef demos,…
Sa-weet! The Chocolate Festival comes to MOSI in Tampa (photos)
The Festival of Chocolate debuted in Tampa this weekend at The Museum Of Science And Industry (MOSI). The three-day event features the best regional chocolate and confection companies, classes for designing your own chocolate delights, and even ice cream eating contests. There were competitions in several confection categories and a chocolate and wine pairing demonstration. The…
GOP Senator says stopping guns from getting into the hands of the mentally ill might be addressed in Congress
In the past eight days, there has been some – but not much – discussion about the issue of guns in the wake of the assassination attempt of Arizona Democratic Congresswoman Gabrielle Giffords. Most of that discussion has centered around the idea that ultimately, nothing will happen in Congress, primarily because the power of the…
The Green Community week in review: Sweetwater Farm’s location threatened, mass animal deaths worldwide, 10/100/1000 Challenge and more
What’s the buzz on the latest issues in the Green Community? Check out what you may have missed last week: EarthTalk: Saving forests with (among other things) cardboard tube-less toilet paper – Kimberly-Clark, the largest manufacturer of tissue products in the world, caved into pressure from Greenpeace and other environmental groups and has agreed to…
Lightning drop 2nd game in a row 6-4 to Hurricanes
The Tampa Bay Lightning needed a bounce back effort in the worst way after a letdown Friday night against the New Jersey Devils. Their opponent Saturday night, thee Carolina Hurricanes, have been a team on the rise of late, quietly working their way towards the top eight in the Eastern Conference. And the Hurricanes showed…
Lightning fall to Devils 5-2
Sometimes, history repeats itself. The Tampa Bay Lightning entered their game against the New Jersey Devils Friday night with one goal: to avenge the 6-3 loss they suffered at the hands of the Devils earlier this week. They were also hoping to avoid another let down to a team near the bottom of the league,…
Obama administration loosens travel rules to Cuba back to where they were during Clinton administration — though flights could leave from TIA
Though the possibility that direct flights might soon flow from Tampa International Airport to Cuba is undoubtedly big local news and befits front-page headlines in Saturday's Tampa Tribune and St. Petersburg Times, the fact is that the Obama administration's loosening of travel restrictions to Cuba for the most part puts U.S. policy simply back to…
GaYBOR monthly meeting first time all 6 Tampa mayoral candidates meet in 2011 campaign
Although there are just 52 days left before Tampa citizens choose their next mayor, all six candidates who are looking to succeed Pam Iorio as Tampa's chief executive had never met together under one roof until late Friday afternoon in Ybor City. And for a bonus, that included the mysterious candidate, Arthur Richardson (right), making…
Gratuitously yours: Tips on tipping and how to score a table at a hot new spot
Plenty of ink — and pixels — are spent recommending restaurants. Less talked about, but equally important, are knowing how to score a table and why not to be a cheapskate tipper. Indeed, scoring a table at a hot new restaurant can be maddening. While this might not be as much of a challenge in…
EarthTalk: Is organic tobacco healthier for smokers?
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: Is it true that organic tobacco production is booming in the U.S.? And are cigarettes made from organic tobacco any healthier for smokers?…
Chris Hart & Susan Long latest (and last) entrants into Tampa City Council election
On the last day for qualifying for Tampa's City Council elections on March 1, two more candidates are getting into the races. In District 2, which so far has looked to be one of the few races that may not end up in a run-off, between incumbent Mary Mulhern and her challenger Scott Strepina, neighborhood…
12 steps to reform the Republican Party of Florida
The next party boss has an opportunity to make needed reforms to restore credibility By Chris Ingram In fewer than 24 hours, the much maligned Republican Party of Florida will have a new chairman. Regardless of who wins, the victor needs to show some leadership. While John Thrasher did an able job giving the party some…
Photo review: Ivan Neville’s Dumpstaphunk at Crowbar, Ybor City
Fresh off the 2011 Jam Cruise, New Orleans ensemble Ivan Neville's Dumpstafunk wasted little time in hitting the road and last night's show, the band's first at The Crowbar, did not disappoint. The at-capacity crowd was treated to two-plus hours of hard and funky jams, and were left begging for more when it was all…
Asian brew: Vietnamese coffee may have saved my life (and my kidneys)
Of all the bad ideas I’ve had while traveling, the worst by far was my bus trip through Cambodia. Instead taking an airplane like a sane person, I decided that the best way to see the country was by going overland from Bangkok all the way to Saigon. In a trip that consisted of 32…
The Gaily News: Chick-fil-A’s defense, Obama appeals DOMA cases, Yale’s payroll gaffe and Jane Lynch on roles for gay actors
Chick-Fil-A President Dan Cathy has released a video in an attempt to quell the backlash against the company donating money to an anti-gay marriage group. Earlier this month, it came to light that Chick-Fil-A was a sponsor of a marriage seminar affiliated with Pennsylvania Family Institute. Cathy says that the donation is not an endorsement…
A second look: Hard Rock Cafe grand opening celebration – celebrity red carpet entrances and a high-octane Styx performance
Some shots from the celeb-attended grand opening of the new Hard Rock Cafe at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Tampa this past Wednesday, January 12. Complete photo galleries of the festivities after the jump.
Movie review: Michel Gondry’s The Green Hornet, starring Seth Rogen, Jay Chao, Christoph Waltz and Cameron Diaz (with trailer video)
I'm a sucker for superhero movies. You know the story: An average Joe overcomes a major trauma (parent's murdered, radioactive spider bite, etc.) and ends up clad in spandex, risking life and limb to save the world. The Green Hornet is not exactly that kind of movie — but you probably figured that out when…
Obama’s got his groove back? MLK Jr. festivities begin, and Mike Haridopolos wants to be your next U.S. Senator from Florida:Mitch Perry Report 1.14.10
It's been an incredible week in terms of the national political scene, with so much focus on our discourse, and just a little bit about the realities of gun violence and mental illness. Nonetheless, we are somewhat amused to hear Rush Limbaugh fulminate on air yesterday because the pundits over at Fox News couldn't help…
Ruby’s Elixir, St. Pete’s new speakeasy-style joint, celebrates its grand opening
We don't know the password, Jack, but if you play your cards right, you might get in!
Tampa City Council talks more specifically about possible panhandling ban – but still aren’t close to approving anything
The news story that keeps on giving for Tampa political reporters – whether to ban panhandling on street right-of-ways in Tampa – will continue to play out, as the City Council Thursday night scheduled a workshop on a comprehensive look at homelessness – 6 weeks from now. In the past week City Attorney Chip Fletcher…
10/100/1000: Proposals for community gardens, mentoring, local shoppers, persons with disabilities and more
The 10/100/1000 Challenge is not even a day old, but we already have an impressive roster of applicants. Go to cltampa.com/ten100 to read about — and perhaps vote for — such projects as the following: • A contest to find the most community-minded shopper in Tampa Bay • An art-based employment initiative for people with…
Mike Haridopolos ready to challenge Bill Nelson for U.S. Senate – if he can win GOP nomination first
The very strong rumors that Florida Senate President Mike Haridopolos was poised to make a run for the U.S. Senate seat currently occupied by Democrat Bill Nelson is no longer idle speculation, as every newspaper in the state is reporting that the Merrill Island legislator is inviting big Republican donors to a "private strategy meeting"…
Naming your Freud stick with The Penis Name Book
It's an important day in every man's life when he christens his Pink Panther with a classy, yet masculine title that not only conveys his Big Lebowski's physical prowess, but also his domineering personality. Is your Dirty Harry an olive skinned Spanish gentleman, like Christopher Columbus, who risks his life to explore virgin territory, or…
Have no fear, St. Pete College’s Eco-Man is here! (video)
To further their mission of incorporating sustainable values and practices into the global culture of St. Petersburg College and that of its stakeholders, the SPC Office for Sustainability has released the first in a series of entertaining, environmentally focused short films. The serialized films, titled “The Adventures of Eco-Man,” focus on Eco-Man, whose alter ego…
Dining Guide: Late night eats
CL regularly presents focused listings of the best dining options in Tampa Bay’s neighborhoods. This week we’re giving you a guide to the spots in Tampa Bay that are best known for their late night dining hours and pre-hangover fare. ANGIE'S CAFE 200 1st Ave N., St. Pete; 727-823-6437. The gyros and Philly cheese steaks…
Do It This Weekend: MOSI’s Festival of Chocolate, Star Trek Live, the Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival, Hitchcock’sThe Birds and more
Chocoholics rejoice! MOSI will be hosting The Festival of Chocolate, a unique, educational and interactive event for all the senses.
Martin Luther King III to appear at USF next week as part of MLK Jr. celebration
This coming Monday is the national holiday that is Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a holiday that still is not observed by much of corporate America (my former employers at WMNF radio honor the day by giving employees the day off – alas, no such luck with our bosses at CL). At the USF Tampa…
Sweet and spicy pecans: A sweet excuse to break your New Year’s resolutions
Well, here we are again. Another year gone by and I honestly didn’t see it coming. Seriously. Where did the time go? They say that time flies when you’re having fun. If that’s true, then 2010 must have been one helluva nonstop party. Too bad I can’t remember it! I don’t usually make a lot…
Attention Internet folks: help decide This or That’s 2010 Song of the Year
What's one thing that isn't fun about the People's Choice Awards? That your voice really isn't heard and you have to sit through three hours worth of awards show to see who the winners are. Mind you, sometimes you see a bunch of awesome performances during the ride, but being able to decide the outcome…
Climate Refugees documentary screening and talk back at the Palladium Theatre – Sunday, January 30
St Petersburg College today announced a partnership with the US Green Building Council, Florida Gulf Coast Chapter to present the documentary Climate Refugees at SPC's Palladium Theatre in St. Petersburg. A climate refugee is a person displaced by climatically induced environmental disasters. Such disasters result from incremental and rapid ecological change, resulting in increased droughts,…
Toyota social media case study for ‘less successful’ auto manufacturers
Reaching more than 106 million readers, video viewers, and customers with its social media campaign, Toyota is a perfect case study for other big brands. Though Ford and GM have also been set aside for their social marketing success, Toyota alone is successful in spite of minor setbacks and brand misconceptions. Toyota has proven it can…
Kriseman files bill in Florida House that would lengthen state legislators’ terms in office
St. Petersburg House Democrat Rick Kriseman has been concerned for awhile amount the lack of institutional knowledge in Tallahassee. He's also expressed frustration about how there always seems to be an ongoing perpetual election cycle that he and other representatives must contend with because they run for for re-election every two years So Kriseman today…
Bill’s Sports Binge and Grind podcast 1/13 combo: Wildcard wackiness, SEC gets one for the thumb and realistic resolutions
Back with a hybrid of the Binge and the Grind (think shampoo and conditioner or Alien vs. Predator dumbed down) for your reading and listening pain pleasure. Flip and Bill meet at the studios, shake hands, turn on the mic and go. It's raw, it's unrehearsed and it's awful… Awful good! Sorry, I was choking…
Must Click Links: Obama speaks in Arizona, the green “arc,” 2011 foreign films, Chevy Volt and more …
Obama: "What we can't do is use this tragedy as one more occasion to turn on each other." This undeniably moving speech should make anyone who has used this tragedy to point fingers feel ashamed. (Note I said should …) This Green "Arc" could very well be the model for future living. That it looks…
Shady Records signs Slaughterhouse and Yelawolf
Hip hop's worst kept secret became official this week as Shady Records (the label founded by Eminem and manager Paul Rosenberg) finally worked out a deal that will add Slaughterhouse [pictured right] to their roster. The supergroup — which consists of former Eminem collaborator and fellow Detroit native Royce Da 5'9, Joell Ortiz, Joe Budden,…
The 10/100/1000 Challenge: Can you help make Tampa Bay a better place to live?
Ten ideas, 100 days, $1,000: Beginning January 13, 2011, and continuing for the next 100 days, Creative Loafing and Creative Tampa Bay invite you to share your ideas for making Tampa Bay a better place to live, work and play. The 10 best projects will be selected by judges from CL and CTB, reserving one…
Captain Planet and the Planeteers coming to DVD in time for Earth Day
The power is yours, Planeteers: the power to watch the first season of Captain Planet on DVD! After premiering almost 20 years ago, the eco-themed kid's show — that was also the longest running cartoon of the '90s — will be released on DVD for your home viewing pleasure just in time for Earth Day…
Join CL’s Beer Club at the Clearwater Brew Garden – Wednesday, January 19
Do you like beer? How about free beer? Then come to CL’s last Beer Club event for the season at the Clearwater Brew Garden, on Wednesday, January 19, from 7-9 p.m. Sample different craft beers and an offering from Blue Moon at no charge, then grab a pint of Blue Moon at the bar for…
Obama popularity slowly rising again – and that was before Wednesday night’s address in Tucson (video)
President Obama is receiving mostly plaudits for his address at the memorial for the victims of last Saturday's violent outburst in Tucson (Joan Walsh in Salon called it his finest speech as president, while noted Obama agonistes Brit Hume and Charles Krauthammer waxed absolutely positive) Brit Hume: “It wasn’t a memorial, it was more like…
Celebrities walk red carpet in Tampa debut of Hard Rock @ Nite
Nicky Hilton, fashion model and sister to Paris, walks the red carpet for the debut of Hard Rock @ Nite The Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Tampa held its premiere Wednesday night for the opening of its new Café. Billed as a celebrity-studded soiree to kick off the opening of the Hard Rock…
Greco and Turanchik discuss why they want panhandling ban; Thomas Scott talks gay rights, and Tallahassee’s powerful supporter of high-speed rail :Mitch Perry Report 1.13.11
As the nation reflects on President Obama's powerful address in Tucson last night (and the decidedly less enthusiastic response generated from Sarah Palin's video statement released yesterday morning), we'll stay with local politics today. Leading off the list is our discussion with Tampa City Council chairman Thomas Scott, attempting to become Tampa's first black mayor. …
The Gaily News: The gayest cities in America, San Francisco’s gay museum and Dire Straits’ gay slur
"The Advocate" has released its 2011 list of the 15 gayest cities in America. While the Tampa Bay area didn't make the cut, two locales on the list are right here in Florida. Though people not from here often assume that all Orlando has going for it is Mickey and Minnie, the city landed the…
Tampa mayoral candidate Tom Scott doesn’t take back 2005 BOCC vote against gay pride
In the fall of 2009, the Tampa City Council voted to add Gender Identity to their Human Rights Ordinance, and nobody was more powerful in speaking up for the transgendered during the debate on that vote than City Council Chairman Thomas Scott, a candidate for Mayor of Tampa this year. At the time Scott, who…
Lightning blank Caps twice in a week, extend Southeast Division lead
For the second time in just over a week, it was a battle for first place in the Southeast Division when the Washington Capitals took on the Tampa Bay Lightning Wednesday night at the St. Pete Times Forum. And for the second time in just over a week, the Tampa Bay Lightning held the Capitals…
Downhome food, upscale spot: Bailey’s moves its serious comfort food to a chic setting on Davis Islands
Bailey’s Catering & Restaurant 3 1/2 stars 238 E. Davis Blvd., Tampa, 813-254-8018, baileycatering.com Bailey’s is not the kind of restaurant that you can get a feel for at first glance. The restaurant’s Davis Islands space — the former home of Chez Bryce — has a gorgeous outdoor courtyard that often sits empty. The main…
Green Community Calendar weekend events: Free compost workshop, beekeeping course, markets 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…
The 10/100/1000 Challenge
Beginning January 13, 2011 and continuing for the next 100 days, Creative Loafing and Creative Tampa Bay invite you to share your ideas for making Tampa Bay a better place to live, work and play. The 10 best projects will be selected by judges from CL and CTB, reserving one spot for the project that…
Where were the parents?
In response to the massacre last weekend in Tucson, when a troubled young man killed six people including a child and attempted to assassinate a Democratic congresswoman, reporters pointed to the disturbing trend in the writings and statements of some conservative leaders: language that encourages people to consider "2nd Amendment remedies" in order to "take…
Open for business
Any time I have relationship questions, I always ask my inner Dan Savage, and he never leads me astray! My boyfriend and I have had a wonderful relationship for six years. We have had "girlfriends" in the past who were involved with both of us simultaneously. But he recently met a girl and they instantly…
May I see your I.D.?
According to a January 7 article on tech-news purveyor CNET.com, the Obama administration has announced plans to assign to the U.S. Department of Commerce a still-vague project involving the creation of a verifiable online I.D. for Americans. The program, titled the National Strategy for Trusted Identities in Cyberspace, has apparently been evolving for some time;…
The gospel according to Barnes
Kevin Barnes is the high priest of intellectually stimulating, cleverly cheeky pop culture-infused lyricism, an idiosyncratic self-trained musical genius who serves as the visionary frontman of Athens, Ga. electro-lush glam-rock and psyche-pop outfit, of Montreal. The band released a Top-10-of-the-year worthy LP in 2010, False Priest, which found them fully exploring their funkadelic and R&B…
Downhome food, upscale spot
Bailey's is not the kind of restaurant that you can get a feel for at first glance. The restaurant's Davis Islands space — the former home of Chez Bryce — has a gorgeous outdoor courtyard that often sits empty. The main interior dining room is an oddly tight space painted a uniform cafe au lait…
Catch him if you can
Every few years or so, local audiences discover an actor or actress with miles of talent and a wide-open future. A decade ago, it was Stephen Clark Pachosa. Early in 2010 it was Dahlia Legault. But these days, the impressive figure is Chris Jackson, the 21-year-old actor, director, writer and producer who recently shone in…
Do It Today: Kurt Piazza, Forever Plaid and Global Lens’ Belvedere
If you’ve been plugged into the Bay area’s visual arts scene at all over the past few years, you’ve enjoyed the fruits of Kurt Piazza’s labor in some form or another — whether through his work as a curator (circa 2006) at the former Gulf Coast Museum of Art or in the many exhibitions organized…
Alcohol-infused chocolate milk has many reliving their youth “at 40 proof”
Turning a classic childhood drink into an adult favorite is as easy as adding booze. The newest instance of this is Adult Chocolate Milk, which features 40-proof vodka that adds a twist to the kid-inspired favorite, chocolate milk. According to the official website, the beverage was created by Tracy Reinhardt — a California mom with…
The Dalí Museum, 1.11.11: Stilt-walkers, surrealists and more (photos)
Salvador Dalí may not have physically been there to relish the glory of the grand opening of his new museum in St.Pete Tuesday, but his spirit sure was. From the stilt-walking conquistador with a snail on his head to the deep sea diver to the lady wearing a huge droopy watch, living representations of Dalí’s…
The Green Community week in review: Scrapping for the Arts, deepwater drilling resumes in the Gulf, Green Deals and more
What’s the buzz on the latest issues in the Green Community? Check out what you may have missed last week: EarthTalk: Time to reform the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) of 1976 – The 1976 Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), enacted in 1976, is widely considered a failure. When enacted it enabled some 62,000 chemicals…
Top Chef Podcast – All-Stars Ep. 5: Big trouble in little Chinatown
Oh, Top Chef All-Stars, please don't ever leave me for a week like that again! I have to admit, last Wednesday with no Top Chef was rough on many of us. Anyhow, it was back in full, well, half force this week, beginning with a cooking throwdown Quickfire starring none other than the big poppa…
Join CL’s Beer Club at New World Brewery – Tuesday, December 21
Do you like beer? How about free beer? Then come to CL’s next monthly Beer Club event at New World Brewery in Ybor (and conveniently located right across the street from our office), on Tuesday, December 21st. Sample different craft beers and an offering from Blue Moon at no charge, then grab a pint of…
