The rise, fall, and rise (again) of Cycle Brewing’s Rare D.O.S. stout
brewbokeh.com BARRELED ALIVE: Cycle Brewing releases its latest Rare D.O.S. batch this weekend. The first sign of trouble showed up on Cycle Brewing’s Facebook page. Soon, similar messages were appearing on influential online craft beer boards. Something was seriously wrong with Rare D.O.S., the bourbon-barrel-aged stout that earned brewer Doug Dozark world acclaim in craft…
Tampa celebrates its 126 birthday with almost all of its living mayors in attendance
Chip Weiner Dick Greco, Sandy Freedman, Bob Martinez, Bob Buckhorn & Bill Poe were the centers of attention on Tuesday. Although slightly less momentous than when all the living current and ex-presidents convene (which last happened this past April for the opening of the George W. Bush Library in Dallas), it isn't that often that…
Mitch Perry Report 11.20.13: Bill Nelson has to stop complaining when reporters ask him if he will run for guv in 2014
Viewers of comedian Bill Maher's weekly HBO show Real Time are certainly familiar with his bit that concludes each show called "New Rules." After reading what Bill Nelson said yesterday to a reporter in Washington, I'd suggest my own "New Rule" for Senator Nelson: Quit acting so aggrieved when reporters ask if you might run…
Skip the Eagles for a Rocky Mountain High
There is no denying that tonight's Eagles concert at the St. Pete Times Forum is the "Best of the Day," as far as "big" events go. But the truth is I've always been a hater. Oh sure, I'll grant you that "Take it Easy" is generally non-offensive, but that's where my ability to "praise" the…
The Well-Played List, 11-20-2013: Cate Le Bon, Nitemoves, Townes Van Zandt, Cocteau Twins & more
Music we’re jamming this week; audio, video & Spotify playlist included.
Go Thai high at Tampa’s Thai Gourmet Market
You can bank on the freshness at this restaurant and market.
Florida GOP Congressman busted for coke said his favorite vacation spot is Colombia
Trey Radel Fort Myers-area GOP Congressman Trey Radel's arrest on cocaine charges in Washington D.C. is prompting newshounds to check out the freshman Representative's previous comments regarding drugs. The 37-year-old lawmaker is serving in his first year in the nation's capital after succeeding Connie Mack in the Southwest area congressional seat in 2012. Politico reports…
Improvise some fun with Post Dinner Conversation
The improv troupe Post Dinner Conversation is a group of talented young adults who bring to the stage a unique style and what seems like a never-ending stream of improv games. They collaborate well together while giving the audience both dramatic and comedic spins on the games at play. PDC was organized at the University…
An African marketplace to love
Amina Jackson "Ask me what a Mzungu is." The phrase is one of the first things people see while walking into the I Love Africa marketplace. Mzungu is a term of endearment that means "white face," according to a volunteer. The question was written on T-shirts and written on a small blackboard in white chalk.…
Jack Latvala gets his way as Pinellas Republicans will now battle between themselves before facing Alex Sink in the spring
Jack Latvala takes control at SPC When David Jolly announced his candidacy for the GOP nomination for Congress in Congressional District 13 two weeks ago, he had a powerful supporter by his side – the late Pinellas Congressman's wife, Beverly. Soon endorsements came in from other powerful members of the GOP establishment, such as former…
Kathleen Peters says her candidacy gives Republicans a choice
Kathleen Peters meets the press after announcing her candidacy for Congress. When news first broke that there would be a special congressional election to fill the seat of the late Bill Young in Pinellas County, all sorts of local Republicans and Democrats were said to be considering a run for the seat, vacant for the…
Queens of the Stone Age, Avett Brothers hitting Tampa Bay & more concert news
Some pretty exciting concert news has come out over the past several days, in addition to the Flaming Lips headlining the third annual Gasparilla Music Festival. Brewing up a grungy grinding brand of alt rock seethe n' heavy psychedelic roil, California's dark sons Queens of the Stone Age make their way to Tampa Bay backing…
Do This: Tampa Celebration, Wordier Than Thou
Tampa's current mayor Bob Buckhorn with his predecessors: Pam Iorio, Dick Greco, Sandy Freedman, Bob Martinez and Bill Poe. All the mayors pictured except Iorio are scheduled to attend today's celebration. Feeling that special love for Tampa? Mayor Bob Buckhorn does and is hosting a Celebration of the City of Tampa with four past mayors…
Mitch Perry Report: Jeb Bush keeping the window open in 2016?
It's still more than 1,000 days until the next presidential election, but it's in the DNA of political reporters to speculate about who might run in 2016, despite the fact that Barack Obama was re-elected just over a year ago. Nevertheless, let's play that game! It's always interesting to ponder whether Jeb Bush might decide…
New Music Tuesday! (November 19): Booka Shade, Yo Gotti, A Perfect Circle, Polar Bear Club & more
Releases out this week; audio & video included.
The stunning 4.48 Psychosis
A MIND-BLOWING PERFORMANCE: Nicole Jeannine Smith. I’ve just seen Nicole Jeannine Smith’s brilliant performance in Sarah Kane’s 4.48 Psychosis and I want to alert theater lovers that they only have one more chance — Saturday, Nov. 23 at — to see this shocking, seldom performed piece. Written by Kane shortly before her suicide, the play…
New Obama directive to halt deportations of relatives of veterans could help Tarpon Springs man
Luis Varela Last Friday President Obama issued a directive that will allow some relatives of U.S. service members living in the country illegally to stay. The move is the latest by the president to relax some immigration rules in lieu of a comprehensive bill on immigration coming out of Congress. The order gives U.S. Citizenship…
Many notable names on Rick Kriseman’s transition team
Gypsy Gallardo is part of the large transition team. Rick Kriseman is getting busy. The St. Petersburg mayor-elect made news last week with the announcement that he had selected Dr. Kanika Tomalin, a vice president at Health Management Associates, to be his deputy mayor. But apparently he was just getting started. He announced an extensive…
Alex Sink asserts her independence on the campaign trail
Alex Sink talks with a participant at the UPARC Foundation in Clearwater On Sunday morning talk shows, various pundits sat around television studios in Washington to ponder whether the disastrous rollout of the Affordable Care Act could hurt Democrats running for office next November. But while no one can say for certain how resonant the…
Do This — Craig Ferguson: Hot and Grumpy
Scottish born, American made comedian/actor Craig Ferguson is the trippiest straight man you’ll ever see on TV. On The Late Late Show With Craig Ferguson, he’s ornery yet likable, his dry, self-deprecating humor and absurdist tendencies on full display, minus all the explosive cursing you see in his stand-up specials and plus two (non-human) sidekicks…
A celebration of water at Loy Krathong 2013: Photos
Bill Grable Wishes-in-waiting Rain fell from the sky in brief interludes on Saturday night, but the Palm River commanded the attention as hundreds paid tribute to the gift of water. Loy Krathong, originating in India and Thailand, celebrates all that rivers provide — life. Celebrated globally, Loy Krathong at Wat Mongkolratanaram of Florida (Wat Tampa),…
Get in on Movember Madness at these events
Brian James STIFF UPPER LIP? Photo of Ron Jeremy at Night Moves 2013. The month of November has men growing out the hair on their upper lips to promote preventive men’s health, and on Friday, the cause gets a special boost from well-endowed porn legend Ron Jeremy — what, he’s endowed with a nice 'stache,…
That’s a wrap for the 2013 Reel Terror Film Festival
We look back with a photo gallery of this year’s event.
Kelly Shibari, the full package
KellyShibariXXX.com Kelly Shibari is an architect of the adult industry; she not only influences which adult stars and products rise to prominence, but she helps shape how we view the pornosphere. Shibari got her start manipulating the entertainment landscape by working in design on mainstream television and film. Seven year ago she stepped out of…
Shipyard Brewing to open brewery in Tampa Bay
Shipyard Brewing Coming soon to Clearwater. Shipyard Brewing Co., one of the largest microbreweries in the country, wants to join the Tampa Bay craft beer revolution. So plans are underway to open its first production facility outside of Maine in the existing brewpub at Clearwater's Sea Dog Brewing Co., which opened last year. (Sea Dog…
This week’s top LGBT events
Monday, Nov. 18 Metro Wellness and Community Center and Trans*Action Florida have teamed up to present a Transgender Town Hall event, 6 to 7:30 p.m., at Metro Wellness’ St. Pete location, 3251 3rd Ave. N. A panel will discuss the latest issues facing the transgender and gender-variant communities. Topics include: transphobic violence, intersex issues, Pinellas…
Today is the 50th anniversary of JFK’s visit to Tampa
Commemorate the 50th anniversary of our visit by a sitting president.
Mitch Perry Report 11.18.13 – Dems fight back on ACA
Good morning CL readers. It's been awhile since we've been here. Approximately eight weeks ago I composed my last morning compilation of the news of the day – September 20, to be precise. I took a leave of absence to be with my mother, Lydia, who was diagnosed with pancreatic cancer this past spring. The…
House Democratic leaders insist everything will be okay with the ACA
The problems with the rollout of the Affordable Care Act have damaged President Obama substantially over the past month, leading 39 House Democrats to side with Republicans on Friday in voting to allow health insurers to continue selling plans canceled under the ACA through 2014. Coming to bat to defend Obama and his crumbling personal…
Best of the Day: Viva Cal! Sextet
A tribute to jazz vibes legend Cal Tjader.
Mazzaroli’s cannon
Weapons of war can become pieces of art.
Sluts and such
Advice on avoiding labels. Plus: My pervy friend stole my stuff!
Do This: Cranksgiving
Give thanks for good Tampa fun on two wheels with Cranksgiving, an annual food drive and scavenger hunt that's been carving out a noble path through cities across the U.S. It began in New York City in 1999, and today the Tampa's Cranksgiving takes a spin again for the less fortunate. It's free to enter,…
Ace of Cakes’ Duff Goldman hosts Nocturnal Cravings at St. Petersburg’s Dali Museum
Brianna Enders A selection of desserts from Best of the Bay award winners, William Dean Chocolates. Twelve hours before, it was just a gift shop. But the mustache T-shirts, decorative coasters and melting clocks were moved aside for a red carpet to stumble down. The awards show-style backdrop for photos left plenty of room for…
Flaming Lips headline the third annual Gasparilla Music Fest; Q&A with Wayne Coyne included.
Early bird tickets on sale now.
Adam Putnam on high-speed rail, renewable energy and the art of compromising
Adam Putnam at Maestro's in Tampa on Friday Upon taking office in 2011, Florida Agriculture Commissioner Adam Putnam announced that along with water and nutrition, energy policy was an issue that he was going to put an intense focus on during his tenure in office. That's what led to him presenting a series of proposals…
Reel Terror: It’s baaaacccck…
Prepare to have your soiled pants scared right off! Today is the day of Creative Loafing's Reel Terror 2013, presented by Villagio Cinemas — a one-day film festival celebrating the local horror scene, and the many brave souls who risk their lives and finances in pursuit of their dreams. Reel Terror includes panel discussions, celebrity…
CL Holiday Auction: Two nights at the Don CeSar
The first week of Creative Loafing's Holiday Auction for the benefit of The Children's Home is off and running. Right away, we're seeing some hotly contested items. Top bid-getter as of this morning: The deluxe Loews Don CeSar/Maritana Grille package, with $305 in bids already in. And just so you know: This offer is not…
Do This: Loy Krathong Festival
A festival at Wat Tampa pays homage to rivers with the launch of tiny lotus-shaped boats.
St. Petersburg’s Beach Drive buzz
Fashion bubbles over at Bella Moda and Baubles & Bubbles.
New ideas for Tropicana Field, Ybor City
The Tampa Bay Rays are counting on a $1.3 million plan to upgrade Tropicana Field and enhance the “fan experience” to bring more visitors to the St. Petersburg ballpark. The Tampa Bay Rays are describing the makeover as providing “360-degree fan access,” enabling visitors to walk around the stadium and still watch the game without…
Celebrate with The Best Man Holiday
The holiday season kicks off with a winning mix of comedy and drama.
Do This: Let’s Dance, Cigar Heritage Party
Get in on a celebration of great dance tunes and old school styles with award-winning dancers showing their stuff. Let’s Dance kicks it with The Florida Orchestra backing up dancers performing the tango, waltz, cha-cha-chá, Charleston, blues, swing, dance hits from Broadway and films, and ’50s rock favorites, including “Blue Suede Shoes,” “I Got A…
Tampa Bay’s dining guide to Thanksgiving Day
Let one of these fine local establishments take care of the big feast for you.
Remembering Charlie Trotter
The late great Chicago chef Charlie Trotter brought improvisation to the menu.
The Laugh Tract — who’s bringing the funny through Nov. 18
Craig Ferguson and April Macie highlight this week’s round-up.
We’re off to see the wizard — again and again and again
Remember the joy of seeing The Wizard of Oz the first time? Boomers! Remember how CBS used to show the movie just once a year, then open it for us in prime time as a holiday gift? It was an Event, right up there with Halloween, Christmas and birthdays. You whippersnappers today, raised on home…
Do This: Seminole Heights sirens, Feast V, Marlee Matlin and Orbit 19
While working at home I like to leave the front door open with just the screen door between our household and the lovely fall outdoors. The compromised barrier allows sounds from outside to be heard. While it's usually a TPD copter or loud car or dog barking, for once I got to hear something sweeter.…
Nan Rich says it’s style vs. substance with Charlie Crist now in the race
Nan Rich addresses the faithful at J.J.'s in Ybor City Wednesday night If the progressive wing of the Florida Democratic Party had a dream candidate for governor, he or she would sound pretty similar to Nan Rich, who spoke to the Hillsborough County GLBTA Democratic Caucus at J.J.'s in Ybor City Wednesday night. But unfortunately…
Inside the Photo Booth: Dancer & Choreographer Erin Tracy
Kevin Tighe Erin Tracy (click to enlarge) Creative Loafing Best of the Bay winner Erin Tracy is the Artistic Director of the Tampa based dance theatre Spec Performance. Erin's recent work includes performances at the Gasparilla Arts Festival and the Florida Dance Festival as well as numerous performances with New York based dance companies. Kevin…
Creative Loafing Holiday Auction for The Children’s Home starts today
This year we’re on eBay.
Tampa Museum of Art’s new shows cast a spell
From an art film about a cruise ship to works by Ansel Adams, Calder and Miró, TMA’s lineup is magic.
The Gaily News: Gay marriage legal in Hawaii
Hawaii's Gov. Neil Abercrombie has signed a bill a marriage equality bill into law in the Aloha State. Hawaii's Gov. Neil Abercrombie signed a bill legalizing gay marriage in the state just one day after the Senate passed the legislation during a special session. Same-sex weddings will begin in the Aloha State beginning Dec. 2.…
Tyra Scott: the best of both sexes
The transsexual adult performer on why her penis is a business asset, transitioning, topping, and how she’s still a virgin in the biblical sense.
Morning Report: Raising the speed limit not a fast fix?
Plus: Typhoon fundraiser, Bay Pines VA gets a new name and more …
Cozy up to the apple pie martini at Tampa’s Carmel Cafe
Carmel Cafe & Wine Bar The apple pie martini will warm those Florida bones with just a sip. Holiday cocktails, especially those claiming to taste like dessert, tend to go overboard on ingredients and simple syrup. Thankfully, Carmel Cafe & Wine Bar's apple pie martini proves to be a great example of what happens when…
JFK’s day in Tampa
As the nation commemorates a tragedy, memories of a joyous visit live on.
Can urban gardens save our souls?
The advocacy of these green-thumbed Bay area resident is transforming our community.
Stageworks sexes us up with Venus in Fur
David Ives’ play is a tantalizing experience.
Jingle these bells: Holiday albums for your Yuletide playlist
A range of seasonal sounds from pop to punk rock to psychedelia; playlist included
CL Holiday Auction Week Two Preview: Nov. 21-28
Check out all the items available here before you bid.
Party on, Z Grille
The menu at St. Peterburg’s Z Grille continues to be a totally amazing, excellent discovery.
Book of Mormon’s blasphemous humor
The hottest ticket in town has big laughs — at the expense of many.
Review: Coastline Festival brings Passion Pit, Matt & Kim and others to the Amphitheater, Tampa
A look back at the Sat., Nov. 9 fest, with pics.
CL Holiday Auction Week One: Nov. 14-21
Check out all the available items here before you bid.
CL Holiday Auction Week Three Preview: Nov. 28-Dec. 5
Check out all the available items here before you bid.
Man v. Food Network coming to St. Pete’s Enjoy Arts & Tastes festival
Journalist Allen Salkin’s new book tackles the history of basic cable’s foodie favorite.
CL Holiday Auction Week Four Preview: Dec. 5-Dec. 12
Check out all the available items here before you bid.
Protesters urge Duke Energy to invest in solar energy
The crowd gathered Wednesday morning in downtown St. Pete to urge Florida’s largest utility to develop renewables.
Best of the Day: John Vanderslice
Nicole Kibert ONE OF THE CROWD: John Vanderslice with Rec Center's Susie Ulrey at his CL Space show in 2011. Those unacquainted with John Vanderslice might have newcomers surprised by the numerous associations he's made over the years. He has hosted Death Cab for Cutie, Mike Watt, Deerhoof, Spoon and many others at his Tiny…
Will $100 million buy the governor’s race?
The projected cost of Gov. Rick Scott’s re-election bid: $100 million. The value of grassroots mobilizing to put Charlie Crist back in the governor’s office: Priceless. That is how Democratic organizers see Crist's challenge in trying to take back the governor's office in Florida. Whether big organizing can trump big money remains to be seen.…
St. Pete’s Sake Bomb hosts honeys and hot rods
Downtown Carol Photo Second from the left is Miss Scorpio 2013, Megan Kennedy. On the far right is maven of ceremonies Judy Pop. St. Petersburg's 500 Block was a brim with vintage motorcycles, hot rods, Volkswagen buses, and even an old Morris Minor. At 7 p.m., Sake Bomb's third annual Scorpio Vintage Rides and Art…
