Our politicians keep telling us to spend, spend, spend, presumably at the big box stores that are all part of the problem. Instead, why not block off some time to slip a fiver to a local band for one of theirCDs or $50 for a one-of-a-kind masterpiece to hang on the wall? That will really make a difference.

With the excitement of Pride, the 4th, and most of the summer behind us, it’s time to mellow out and enjoy the time before the fall. Visit a farmer’s market, brew some good old fashioned Southern iced tea, and sit back and creak away on an old rocking chair.

[caption id="attachment_11263" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Photo by Hans Bruesch"][/caption]The weather in Tampa has been sweltering for months now, and the frequent thunderstorms we’ve been experience have almost been a relief (even with the flooding, water damage, and leaky roofs). With summer more than halfway over, I say it’s time to revel in the sticky, hot, humid weather while we have it. Because for three or four whole months, it just might get under 70 degrees.

[caption id="attachment_10817" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Photo by Hans Bruesch"][/caption]This weekend is going to be so filled with art, music, fashion, and more art, that you would think we were really in the land of Bohemia (which, in the world of RENT, is New York City). The big news is that RENT is playing through Sunday, but if you’ve already seen the show or it just isn’t your thing, have a gander at the other events for this weekend and support real starving artists trying to make it in a Southern city that doesn’t always provide shelter for creatives in its midst.

Why not brave the heat and enjoy the 4th of July the way it was intended: with a nice cold beer, some smoky BBQ or other good eats, and a fireworks show by a bunch of professionals, not the guy four doors down who sports a greasy mullet.

[caption id="attachment_8349" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Photo by Michael Hicks"][/caption]Friday

[caption id="attachment_10337" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Logo provided by GaYbor.com"][/caption]The Tampa area is recovering from Pride. The last of the glitter has been brushed from our hair, our sunburns fresh and new, and photos from parades and parties decking out our Myspace and Facebook profiles. What better way is there to finish off the festivities than another week of partying and debauchery?

[caption id="attachment_10145" align="alignright" width="128" caption="St. Pete Pride, 2007. Photo Copyright 2007 Dorian Aerial & Architectural Photographics, Inc."][/caption]It’s here. St. Pete Pride is upon us. The weekend is going to be filled with parties, a parade, backyard barbecues, and more.

Years ago (and, it’s weird to think of my college days as years ago) I put my zombie obsession aside for a few weeks. I decided that I was probably a furry, because I liked cats and thought cartoon animals made to look like people were really cute (Yay cat girls!). As time went on and I met more and more furries, I realized the lifestyle just wasn’t for me. However, my brush with the furrydom made me realize how accepting the movement is, and how much crap they take from other people.

[caption id="attachment_9543" align="alignright" width="300" caption="Photo by Ed Jackson"][/caption]Pride’s about to hit the Tampa area in a big way. Before that happens, enjoy the local nightlife without smothering crowds and endless parties.