TampaBLAB

This morning, Mr. Litbrit was thoroughly engrossed in watching the Rolex 24 Hours of Daytona–only seven more hours worth of exhausted drivers trying to stay awake and manage their seriously compromised race-cars while going in circles with the odd engine fire just to keep things interesting!–and I was puttering around the place in my Not-from-Wal-mart pajamas, indulging in the customary vat of coffee and gathering up stray tea-plates and buttered toast crusts. Mostly I was trying to stay away from any manifestation whatsoever of the dread Sunday news–the shows and the periodicals–all the while amusing myself (and horrifying the children) by singing:

Mother doesn’t go out anymore–
Just sits at home and rolls her spastic eyes;
But every weekend through the door
Come words of wisdom from the world outside.

If you wanna know about the bishop and the actress;
If you wanna know how to be a star;
If you wanna know about the stains on the mattress–
You can read it in the Sunday papers, Sunday papers…

Suddenly it occurred to me: there are probably quite a few of us out here doing likewise–that is, engaging in one form or another of this very behavior. And thus a recurring blog bit was born: Sunday Avoidance Therapy. If you’re interested in escaping the frustrating political domain for a blessed hour or two–or simply looking for a bit of time-suckage so you can put off doing the laundry while simultaneously convincing yourself that broadening the mind and having a laugh or two are more important than having clean socks–this post’s for you.

In the spirit of camaraderie, then, I’ll share a few of the bits and pieces I found while taking a Sunday spin around the ‘Tubes, only one of which is (tangentially) related to politics and the mainstream media, but hey, it is by Matt Taibbi–here you go–who rips David Brooks a well-deserved new one, which, come to think of it, begs the question as to exactly how many new ones a single human can endure having ripped before he becomes more orifice than substance and thus simply evaporates?

So then…let’s go: First, to sunny Barbados, land of my grammar-school years, where Prince Harry–the irreverent, naughty prince, and definitely the one with whom I’d want to be stranded on a desert island–told the audience at a recent Haiti fundraiser that if they were able to raise BBD$5,000 (about USD$2,500) in the next 25 minutes, he would get up and dance for them. They did, and he did. See? We’re not all stiff-upper-lip sorts.

Next, we’ll go back in time a few months, to Hallowe’en, and alight in England just in time to see Christopher Walken’s reading of Lady Gaga’s Poker Face for the Jonathan Ross show on BBC1 (if you haven’t seen this yet, and you’re as big a Walken fan as I, be sure to click through.)

Onward to yesterday’s time plane, where yet more Lady Gaga action was taking place back in America, land of Miss America (and what I wouldn’t give to see a contestant sing the theme song to Team America, World Police in the talent portion, but I digress). As you may have heard, one of the celebrity judges for this year’s pageant was Rush Limbaugh. As you may not have heard, Rush got up and danced. And shook his groove thing and pumped his fist, kinda-sorta in time with the music, so help me.

You’re welcome.

And now, here’s some real rhythm-making goodness: check out Terry Bozzio’s roadies setting up what is easily the biggest drum kit I’ve ever seen.

Finally, in the interests of science, we’ll wind things up in Ecuador, where field researchers continue to discover new species; my personal favorite, the adorably tiny scaly-eyed gecko, is shown perching his half-inch-long bad self on the tip of a pencil-eraser.

Got any fabulous and fascinating links you’d like to share? Mi comment section es su comment section, estimados amigos.

Are you looking for a reason to watch the 52nd annual Grammy Awards on Sunday night? For some, it might be the live performance by Bon Jovi. Others might tune in just to mock Lady Blah-blah (and rightfully dismiss her as a regurgitated version of 1990s Madonna). And you never know when you'll see another historic reunion, like Morris Day and the Time at the 2008 awards.

Me? I'll be at Stuck in the '80s headquarters to follow the event live along with co-hosts Sean Daly and Stephanie Hayes. And I'll be holding out hope that some of our beloved '80s artists come home with the gold. U2 and Bruce Springsteen are names you're going to hear a lot tonight; they're nominated for three awards each. AC/DC and Depeche Mode are up for two awards each.

Here's a list of all of our era's acts that are up for awards tonight:

AC/DC (best hard rock performance, best rock album)

Beastie Boys (best rap performance)

Bon Jovi (best pop performance by a group or duo)

Brian Setzer (best rock instrumental performance)

Bruce Springsteen (best solo rock performance, best rock song, best song for a motion picture)

Carrie Fisher (best spoken word album)

Danny Elfman (best score soundtrack album)

David Byrne & Brian Eno (best alternative music album)

Depeche Mode (best alternative music album, best music video)

Elvis Costello (best contemporary folk album)

Hall & Oates (best pop performance by a group or duo)

John Fogerty (best solo rock performance)

Judas Priest (best metal performance)

Madonna (best dance recording)

Megadeth (best metal performance)

Metallica (best hard rock performance)

Michael J. Fox (best spoken word album)

Ministry (best metal performance)

Pet Shop Boys (best electronic/dance album)

Prince (best solo rock performance)

Slayer (best metal performance)

Spinal Tap (best comedy album)

Stevie Wonder (best male pop vocal performance)

Tracy Chapman (best contemporary folk album)

U2 (best group rock performance, best rock song, best rock album)

Weird Al Yankovic (best comedy album)

[AP photo]

Sunday night, the usual lineup of current musical industry phonies (hat tip: J.D. Salinger) gather in Los Angeles for a night of back-slapping and self-indulgent performances at the 52nd annual Grammy Awards.

For years, I've largely mocked it as "the least important awards show in the entertainment biz" for a couple of reasons. First, it's obvious Grammy Awards go to the biggest sellers (or sellouts) rather than the more talented artists. Second, the award for "Best New Artist" is often more curse than commendation, practically dooming the winner to footnote status for all eternity. (Hello, Milli Vanilli.)

Technically, the "best new artist" is supposed to go to the performer who releases, during the previous year, the first recording which establishes the public identity of that artist (which may not necessarily be their first release). So it's not really supposed to go to the band expected to achieve the greatest fame. And that's good. Because that rarely happens.

This year's list of future trivia questions: Zac Brown Band, Keri Hilson, MGMT, Silversun Pickups, The Ting Tings. (Cricket, cricket.)

But, '80s fans, it turns out that in our beloved decade, the winner was usually worthy of the honor. (Another thing to love about the '80s.)

BEST NEW ARTISTS: 1980-1989

1980: Rickie Lee Jones
Other finalists: The Blues Brothers, Dire Straits, The Knack, Robin Williams
In retrospect: She hit gold with Chuck E.'s in Love, an ear-worm for sure. But is anyone else shocked that the Blues Brothers were nominated for this award?

1981: Christopher Cross
Other finalists: Irene Cara, Robbie Dupree, Amy Holland, The Pretenders
In retrospect: Cross owned the FM dial in the early '80s. The Pretenders were still a couple years away from their best work.

1982: Sheena Easton
Other finalists: Adam and the Ants, The Go-Go's, James Ingram, Luther Vandross
In retrospect: There's no such thing as a new wave band winning this award, is there?

1983: Men at Work
Other finalists: Asia, Jennifer Holliday, The Human League, Stray Cats
In retrospect: Perfect pick. Though any other year, Asia, Human League or Stray Cats would have worthy too.
Podcasts: Interview with Human League's Phil Oakey | Interview with Asia's Carl Palmer

1984: Culture Club
Other finalists: Big Country, Eurythmics, Men Without Hats, Musical Youth
In retrospect: I'm pleasantly surprised to see Big Country as a nominee.

1985: Cyndi Lauper
Other finalists: Sheila E., Frankie Goes to Hollywood, Corey Hart, The Judds
In retrospect: Relax, Frankie. There's no need for you to write an acceptance speech if you're up against Cyndi Lauper.

1986: Sade
Other finalists: a-ha, Freddie Jackson, Katrina and the Waves, Julian Lennon
In retrospect: Zzzzz

1987: Bruce Hornsby & The Range
Other finalists: Glass Tiger, Nu Shooz, Simply Red, Timbuk3
In retrospect: You get the feeling the '80s were in its death rattle at this point.

1988: Jody Watley
Other finalists: Breakfast Club, Cutting Crew, Terence Trent D'Arby, Swing Out Sister
In retrospect: (blank stare)

1989: Tracy Chapman
Other finalists: Rick Astley, Toni Childs, Take 6, Vanessa L. Williams
In retrospect: One final worthy winner and just like that -- poof -- the '80s are over.

Today at 2 pm, the Harrison School For The Arts is holding a benefit for Haiti. Participating are Florida Dance Theatre, Florida Southern College, Harrison School For The Arts, Lakeland Community Theatre, Platform Art, Polk Museum of Art and Theatre Winter Haven. Local artists will perform including pianist Robert McDonald and actor Eric Nutting.

A suggested minimum donation is $5 with Red Cross representatives collecting any donations at the door.

The show is at the school, 750 Lake Hollingsworth Road. For more information: (863) 499-2855.

Harrison Benefit for Haiti Today

Lakeland Local and Metro I4 News have a new design.
When was the last time you visited?

Originally Published as Harrison Benefit for Haiti Today

photo credit: Tom Hagerty for Lakeland Local

Fantasy Campers

Lakeland Local and Metro I4 News have a new design.
When was the last time you visited?

Originally Published as Fantasy Campers

It looks as if Boston hedge fund manager, Jeffrey Vinik will be the next owner of the Tampa Bay Lightning, and it will happen quickly. Vinik is working hand in hand with the NHL to make the deal happen and this will work wonders to push him quickly through the approval process. Another appealing point of approving Vinik is that he is self financing the deal…Read more at Hockey Independent

I just got back this past week from the largest international trade show of its kind, in my industry, in the world. If I had a nickel for every person who said I should write for one of our industry's...

• @crashsystems hah! but FAR better than anyone elses speech recognition! in reply to crashsystems #

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The new 25,000 sq. ft. Wesley Chapel Goodwill Superstore on Willow Oak Dr. (off of SR 56) has a February 6, 2010 Grand Opening date and will employ 45 people.  Goodwill provides both short and long term employment services to people with disabilities. In addition, the Wesley Chapel store will serve as Pasco County headquarters for Goodwill’s BookWorks, an early childhood literacy program. Store phone:  (813) 751-2047.

A few weeks ago I posted the Lee Roy Selmon UW commercial, but this one is even more special, as Ricky Bell was lost at such an early age. He was our first 1,000 yard rusher, and he punished defenses in 1979 to the tune of 1263 yards. He added another 142 in a playoff game vs Philadelphia. 

Ricky Bell was never the same again, as it was discovered in 1983 he had a degenerative muscular disease. He died in 1984. He was one of the first ever Tampa Bay Buccaneers sports heroes.

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Did you hear about the I Don’t Want To Miss contest held last year? It was so popular that it’s being held again this year and the grand prize is that Danny Gokey, former American Idol finalist, will lead a music class for the winning school. For the first 10o videos entered, the teachers will win a care package from Clorox.

The contest is based on what students miss when they have to stay home because they are sick with the flu. My daughter doesn’t like missing school when she’s sick. There’s so much to miss, not only school work, but what’s happening with her friends, the latest gossip and recess. Let’s face it, kids will say that they don’t want to go to school, but when they are out sick, they really do miss it. You can learn about flu prevention by visiting Clorox’s Facebook page.

About the contest:

• Download the song I Don’t Want To Miss…
• Get your music class, group or glee club to learn the song and create a video
• Include a video introduction and be sure that your teacher is in the video
• All students must sign consent forms
• Upload your entry onto School.Tube
• Open to USA middle schools and high schools that are not-for-profit schools
• Entries can be submitted up to March 4 at 11:59 ET
• See complete rules for more information

The I Don’t Want To Miss Contest is a great way to do something creative while spreading the word about flu prevention.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Clorox and received $20 thank-you gift certificate.

See if you can spot the problem with the following C# code:


var list = new List { "fish", "and", "chips" };
for (int i = 0; i < list.Count; i++)
{
  list.Add(list[i].ToUpper());
}


As the title points out, this will cause an infinite loop, and will eat up all of your memory. What happens is that we iterate through the list once (i=0; list.Count = 3) and then add an element to the list. So the next loop we have (i=1; list.Count = 4). This is because anything in the parenthesis of the for operator will be evaluated every loop.

There are three options:

1. Don't modify the list you are working on
2. Save off list.Count to a variable and use that variable in the loop
3. Use generics and/or Linq instead of manually walking the list yourself.

And the code was a dummy example code, nothing in use in any real system.

You heard me, the useless Lukas Krajicek is no longer a Bolt. Woooo! We should have a party! The Lightning have found a way, and by found a way, I mean stuck him on unconditional waivers and then terminated his contract (I'm going to overlook the whole issue that we just waived a guy away for nothing by cap relief).

This useless piece of junk that we acquired in a swap with Vancouver (we sent away Shane O'Brien), and then gave a 1 year contract extension worth $1.475 million, continued to be a useless piece of junk in Tampa. In 23 games with the Lightning this season, he had 1 assist. The Lightning had already sent him through waivers down to Norfolk back in December to take his contract off of the cap.

The Flyers have already signed Krajicek. I feel bad for you Flyers, since if you need a player like Krajicek, you must really be in a need of a defenceman, since Krajicek is shit.

Leap into the fun, action, savings, benefits, memories, options, passion and excitement of Broadway at the Straz!

It will be a dream season in 2010-2011 at the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts (formerly the Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center). Filled with Tony® Award-winners, audience favorites, stunning classics and amazing spectacle, the Straz Center’s 2010-2011 Bank of America Best of Broadway Tampa Bay season is full of fun, passion and excitement.

Shows scheduled on the Broadway series include Billy Elliot, the 2009 Tony Award-winner for Best Musical; Hair, the 2009 Tony Award-winner for Best Musical Revival; the Tony Award-winning revival of West Side Story; the holiday spectacle of Irving Berlin’s White Christmas and the family favorites Shrek the Musical and Disney’s Beauty and the Beast. The series also will include 9 to 5: The Musical, the Apollo Theater revival of Dreamgirls, a production of Forbidden Broadway, produced by the Straz Center, and the eagerly anticipated return of Jersey Boys.

“Our Broadway season is once again filled with the top-notch shows that our devoted audiences have come to expect and enjoy,” said Judith Lisi, president and CEO of the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts. “This entertaining and rewarding series has something for everyone. We’re particularly thrilled to be the first venue in Florida to host the Tony Award-winning Best Musical Billy Elliot with music by Elton John.”

The series is presented in the Straz Center’s acoustically perfect Carol Morsani Hall, the largest on the west coast of Florida, with more than 2,600 seats. Forbidden Broadway will run in the intimate 280-seat cabaret-style Jaeb Theater.

The 2010-2011 Bank of America Best of Broadway Tampa Bay season features:

9 to 5: The Musical

Oct. 19 – 24, 2010

9 to 5: The Musical is a hilarious story of friendship and revenge in the Rolodex era. This new musical comedy, direct from Broadway, is based on the hit movie and features Dolly Parton's original hit title song along with her new Tony Award- and Grammy®-nominated score. The book is by Patricia Resnick (co-writer of the original screenplay) .

9 to 5: The Musical tells the story of three unlikely friends who conspire to take control of their company and learn there’s nothing they can’t do – even in a man’s world. Outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic, 9 to 5: The Musical is about teaming up and taking care of business ... it’s about getting credit and getting even.

Forbidden Broadway

Oct. 26, 2010-Feb. 27, 2011

Forbidden Broadway is a cabaret revue sharply spoofing show tunes, characters and plots of contemporary and current Broadway musicals. Created and written by Gerard Alessandrini and directed by Alessandrini and long-time collaborator Phillip George, the original version of the revue opened on Jan. 15, 1982, at Palsson’s Supper Club in New York City and ran for 2,332 performances. It has been rewritten several times to include parodies of newer shows and has taken on many different incarnations including Forbidden Broadway Goes to Rehab, Forbidden Hollywood and Forbidden Broadway: Special Victims Unit. Forbidden Broadway has mocked popular shows like The Phantom of the Opera, Wicked and Les Misérables and notable Broadway personalities including Carol Channing, Kristin Chenoweth, Elton John, Bernadette Peters, Patti LuPone, Mary Martin, Idina Menzel, Ethel Merman, Stephen Sondheim and Andrew Lloyd Webber. Forbidden Broadway will play in the Straz Center’s Jaeb Theater.

Dreamgirls

Nov. 16 – 21, 2010

Catch the dream! Direct from Harlem’s world famous Apollo Theater in New York City, a sensational new stage production of Dreamgirls comes to the Straz Center featuring American Idol finalist and Sarasota native Syesha Mercado as Deena Jones. Full of onstage joy and backstage drama, Dreamgirls tells the story of an up-and-coming, 1960s singing girl group, and the triumphs and tribulations that come with fame and fortune. With music by Academy® Award nominee Henry Krieger and book and lyrics by Tony and Grammy Award-winner Tom Eyen, Dreamgirls features the unforgettable hits “And I Am Telling You I’m Not Going,” “One Night Only” and “Listen.” Broadway director and choreographer Robert Longbottom (Bye Bye Birdie Broadway revival) and co-choreographer Shane Sparks (television’s So You Think You Can Dance), along with some of Broadway’s top designers, re-envision this Tony- and Academy Award-winning musical so it sparkles like never before!

Irving Berlin’s White Christmas

Nov. 30-Dec. 5, 2010

Get ready to discover a delightful new show that’s as fresh and rare as newly fallen snow! The classic holiday tradition White Christmas comes to the stage at last, as a brand new Irving Berlin musical direct from Broadway. Brimming with such Berlin hits as “Blue Skies,” “How Deep Is the Ocean?” and, of course, the unforgettable title song, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas tells the story of two showbiz buddies putting on a show in a magical Vermont inn and finding their perfect mates in the bargain. Full of dancing, laughter and some of the greatest songs ever written, Irving Berlin’s White Christmas promises to be a merry and bright theatrical experience for the whole family!

Disney’s Beauty and the Beast

Jan. 18-23, 2011

“Tale as old as time, true as it can be.” Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, the smash hit Broadway musical, is coming back to Tampa. Based on the Academy Award-winning animated feature film, this eye-popping spectacle has won the hearts of more than 35 million people worldwide. This classic musical love story is filled with unforgettable characters, lavish sets and costumes, and dazzling production numbers including “Be Our Guest” and the beloved title song. Experience the romance and enchantment of Disney’s Beauty and the Beast at the Straz Center! Disney’s Beauty and the Beast is the classic story of Belle, a young woman in a provincial town, and the Beast, who is really a young prince trapped in a spell placed by an enchantress. If the Beast can learn to love and be loved, the curse will end and he will be transformed into his former self. But time is running out. If the Beast does not learn his lesson soon, he and his household will be doomed for all eternity.

Billy Elliot the Musical

Feb. 2-18, 2011

Tampa is about to be electrified by Broadway’s “best musical of the decade” (Time Magazine). Thrilling audiences worldwide and winning 10 Tony Awards in 2009, including Best Musical, “the best show you will ever see” (New York Post) is coming to the Straz Center’s Carol Morsani Hall. Billy Elliot the Musical is a joyous celebration of one young boy’s triumph against the odds. Called “the most inspiring show I’ve seen in years” by Ben Brantley of The New York Times, the story follows Billy’s journey as he stumbles out of the boxing ring into a ballet class and discovers his dream to dance. Billy Elliot is brought to life by the Tony-winning creative team — director Stephen Daldry, choreographer Peter Darling and writer Lee Hall — along with music legend Elton John, who has written what the New York Post calls “his best score yet!.” Billy Elliot will enchant the dreamer in all of us. Contains adult language.

West Side Story

March 1-6, 2011

More than 50 years ago one musical changed theater forever. Now it’s back on Broadway mesmerizing audiences once again. From the first note of Leonard Bernstein’s score to the final breath, West Side Story soars as the greatest love story of all time. Directed by Tony Award-winner Arthur Laurents, West Side Story remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever, transferring Romeo and Juliet to the streets of New York. “So exciting it makes you ache with pleasure.” – John Lahr, The New Yorker

Jersey Boys

March 23-April 17, 2011

Jersey Boys, the story of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons, makes its triumphant return to Tampa. Directed by two-time Tony Award-winner Des McAnuff, Jersey Boys won four 2006 Tony Awards including Best Musical and continues to set new weekly box office records at the August Wilson Theatre, where it has remained among the five top-grossing shows in New York since it opened.

Jersey Boys is written by Academy® Award winner Marshall Brickman and Rick Elice, with music by Bob Gaudio, lyrics by Bob Crewe and choreography by Sergio Trujillo. Intended for mature audiences. Contains authentic Jersey language.

Shrek the Musical

May 3-8, 2011

Based on the popular Dreamworks film, Shrek the Musical tells the story of a swamp-dwelling ogre who goes on a life-changing adventure to reclaim the deed to his land. Joined by a wise-cracking donkey, this unlikely hero fights a fearsome dragon, rescues a feisty princess and learns that real friendship and true love aren’t only found in fairy tales. You’ll be a believer after seeing this fun-filled fantasy. Songs include “Make a Move” and “Big Bright Beautiful World.”

Hair

May 24-29, 2011

Winner! Best Musical Revival 2009 Tony Award! The Public Theater’s new Tony-winning production of Hair is the most electric celebration on Broadway! This exuberant musical about a group of young Americans searching for peace and love in a turbulent time has struck a resonant chord with audiences young and old. Hair features an extraordinary cast and dozens of unforgettable songs, including “Aquarius,” “Let the Sun Shine In,” “Good Morning, Starshine” and “Easy To Be Hard.” Its relevance is undeniable. Its energy is unbridled. Its truth is unwavering. It's Hair, and it's time. “If this explosive production doesn’t stir something in you, it may be time to check your pulse.” (Variety) Intended for mature audiences: While many find this show suitable for young adults (13 and older), parental discretion is advised. There is a dimly lit 20-second scene with nudity that is non-sexual in nature.

The 2010–2011 Bank of America Best of Broadway Tampa Bay series is presented by the David A. Straz, Jr. Center for the Performing Arts. Those interested in purchasing season tickets should call the Straz Center Ticket Office at 813.229.STAR (7827) or outside the Tampa Bay area at 800.955.1045 or visit www.strazcenter.org for more information. Prices begin at just $196.88 for the full 10-show season package in the Cloud Club. Current season ticket holders will receive renewal information the first week of March and those renewals will be handled before new subscriptions are processed. Straz Center members are given first priority for new season tickets. Group tickets and individual show tickets will go on sale at later dates to be announced.

MyFox Tampa Bay

Gasparilla (39 images) Tampabay.com (blog) [SKIP O'ROURKE, Times] Crowds gather on the Davis Islands seawall as the The Jose Gasparilla heads down Seddon Channel toward the city of Tampa. ... Arrests more than triple at GasparillaTampabay.com all 60 news articles »

Standing on top of The Pier is one of the few viewpoints where you can get the entire skyline of St. Petersburg, Florida.

Having some time to kill before my annual on-location composition photography workshop being held this year on Clearwater Beach, Florida I found myself in downtown St. Petersburg, Florida. Since I have only photographed the skyline from the top of The Pier at sunrise I decided to shoot the sunset as the sun drops behind this picturesque city on the west coast of Florida.

The color on Friday night that also featured the brightest moon of the season called the Wolf Moon was simply amazing as the cool winter temperatures provided some of the most intense sunset colors then ay other time of the year. I certainly wasn't disappointed for the view and colors are simply unbelievable from this vantage point.



The Pier in St. Petersburg, Florida is one of those architecture wonders you either love or hate. Personally I kinda like it.



Standing on top of The Pier gives one an amazing panoramic view of downtown St. Petersburg, Florida and with the cooler weather the colors at sunset are simply breathtaking.

Without a doubt St. Petersburg is one of my favorite cities to photograph for the amount of interesting and unique subjects, architecture and color is simply amazing.

Week One, 1997- The Turn around of the Bucs franchise.

First game in Pewter uniforms, and the Bucs upset the San Francisco 49ers, on their way to a 5-0 start.

For some, enjoy the look back. This type of start is going to happen again, but will it be 2010?

Video taken from the ON THIS DAY series back on August 31st, one of the earliest opening days in a long time.

This year it will be three years that we’ve had this blog up and running and we’ve had over 50,000 page views.  And to celebrate those three years,  we are giving away 3 Coach frames! You could win FREE Coach sunglasses or Coach frames!

There are three ways you can enter, and no purchase is necessary. There will be one winner from each category.

1) Write a comment here on this post and tell us what you think of this blog. All comments welcome!

2) Become our Facebook fan and/or follower on Twitter. Then post a comment on Facebook Wall or mention @BrightEyesTampa in a tweet. UPDATE: You can enter via Twitter with our one-click contest entry!

3) Text the word “BrightEyes” to  74700. This will sign you up to receive occasional special announcements and deals from Bright Eyes and enter you to win the Coach eyewear.

On February 28, 2010, we will announce the winners on this blog. There will be one winner from each of the categories above and you can enter by any and all of the methods as many times as you want.

But take note.  We are not going to pick the winners at random. From each group above, we will pick a winner that is compelling.  The funnier or more interesting, the better. The more attention you draw to yourself (and Bright Eyes),  the more likely you are to win. You could win by entering many times or one exquisitely-crafted entry.

If you really want to get our attention, write a blog entry about why you want – or need – these Coach frames. The bigger and better your campaign, the more likely you are to take home some  shades or have some nice frames for the next time you need to update your glasses!

And although it will not be counted towards your entry for the Coach eyewear, keep in mind, we are looking for more Yelp reviews, too!

So, go nuts! And let the games begin!!

Nathan Bonilla-Warford, OD
Bright Eyes Family Vision Care
Connect with Us: Facebook Twitter Foursquare Yelp

Fine Print:

Contest ends at 12:00 a.m. on 02/27/2010. The winner will be able to pick from the selection of Coach frames we have available, but you must physically come to the office in person by 03/31/2010. The prizes are transferable, so guys, you can bring your special woman down to pick out some frames if you like. @DolceDebbie is not eligible to win because she has already won some fab Tiffany Frames.  No purchase necessary. Prescription lenses cost extra, but need not be purchased to win. A valid glasses prescription is needed if you would like to have prescription sunglasses or glasses. Text messaging service is provided by SUMOtext, and you may be charged for texts depending on your cell phone plan. You can opt-out of the service at any time. If you have any questions, contact doc@brighteyestampa.com.

Not a good day to be  at the beach…………….

Not a soul to be found……(yippee!!)……………..

 

But these guys didn’t seem to mind………..

Nor did these guys……………….

How sweet is that?

Weather tamps down Gasparilla crowd Tampabay.com The crowd in the Davis Islands area was also more subdued: There were no bikini-clad women in sight, no women baring their breasts and no one was throwing ... and more »

Good news for a-ha fans: The band may be calling it quits after its 2010 tour, but Morten Harket, Magne Furuholmen and Paul Waaktaar-Savoyat will play at least three U.S. dates first.

According to a-ha.com, here are the dates:

MAY 6: New York's Nokia Theater

MAY 7: New York's Nokia Theater

MAY 15: Los Angeles' Club Nokia

Presale tickets for all three shows begin Feb. 2. Keep an eye on a-ha's official website for more tour news.

In all these years I have not seen it this good for the Gasparilla pirate festival. Money was flowing, and I was having a good time to boot. I picked up Nancy and her boyfriend and their crew, but I...

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Hiltons of Branson. All opinions are 100% mine.

I learned about an Italian Cooking School weekend in Branson held at Hilton Branson Convention Center, called Italian Culinary Weekend. If you’ve read my blog for some time or follow me on Twitter, you already know how much I love food and traveling. Cooking, not so much, but food and Italian food, yes!

Included in this weekend, held on February 26 – February 27, is Deluxe king or double queen accommodations for Friday and Saturday night, the Friday evening reception, the Saturday evening five course dinner, a goodie bag filled with items for the home chef and the Saturday cooking school.

Now this is my plan if I were to attend – I’d attend the Cooking School, but I’d be sure to have my husband do most of the cooking and do a lot of eating! OK, I might learn a bit and try some new things out. I know for sure we’d see one of the famous Branson shows Friday night and how I’d love to renew our vows at the Titanic Museum for their Sweetheart Month. I’d have to keep my husband away from the 14th Annual Branson Tri-Lakes Building and Home Show. Or maybe I’d give in and let him go there on Sunday.

Think about ravioli, osso bucco, tiramuso and other Italian foods and consider making your reservations now.