#i like the style of your pie chart OP!

[tacky-optic]

gonna be normal about lupin up top and insane about zeni at the bottom for a sec.

i love when people talk about lupin and Legacy because i. cannot. it eludes me. lupin eludes me. but for the variations of lupin where I and II's ghosts are very much prevalent, yes. simply yes. lupin III earned his rivalry with zenigata.

anyway, zaza man. good god ok one second. im fine im okay im so okay about this

i love thinking about past/transition/present zeni. you made me crack out my list op. my little zenigata timeline list that i made to try and define what the hell he is, or what he could be from special to movie to series. there are SO MANY goddamn depictions of this guy, but this was the easiest way to nail it down for me. inside you there are three zenigatas....

early zeni

- generic noir detective angstlord - tired - one of those total workaholic hardasses. no fun, no chill, ever - not even remotely pleasant to be around. runs solo because getting assigned to be his partner is some sorta Higher Form of Punishment - cruel, cold, calculating, etc etc, to a borderline villainish degree - anger issues because of-- - VERY repressed fellings for lupin. surely that tight little feeling he gets in his chest whenever he sees him must be hatred

mid zeni

- insane - tired - probably subconsciously aware that he's into lupin, but the denial is still off the charts - bombastic? that's a word - actually lets himself be happy! sorta. he's trying but its still kind of a lie - probably the simplest phase imo, if only bc he's going through a wholeass Total Restructuring right under everyone's noses

late zeni

- took over a decade but he actually mellowed out, good for him - tired - calculating in like, a cool unscary way - still has bursts of anger/insanity, just not as intense as early/mid - definitely more amicable/tolerable to be around, both on and off the case - wholly aware he loves lupin in some regard. the guy, the rivalry, the chase, the whatever. he feels love and no longer denies that it is, in fact, love

the basic gist tends to be "he was Miserable and Horrible until he Wasn't." ok ok, to be fair, there is still a degree of fatigue at play here that'd drive most other folks insane. he kinda had to become that little piece of the pie that "most" doesn't cover to compensate, hence why he's still totally miserable, just in a new special edition "indeterminably lupin" flavor (and the extra side of hypercompetency he's adopted that comes with it).

zenigata really did throw everything away for lupin. that's going to fking hurt and we're shown it fking hurts, whether it's played off for laughs or for genuine sympathy, and it's a real and resonant feeling, despite the oddness of its origin. but when presented with the choice between misery within perpetual mediocrity versus self-isolationist misery with the chance of a madcap burst of genuine, bone-deep, near-manic enjoyment here and there, we all know what this guy will end up choosing 100% of the time.

one of my favorites from the untranslated manga was this short storyline where zeni starts out as this mega cliche Serious Noir Detective Guy (from what i can gather the first panel is basically your run-of-the-mill angsty monologue about how crummy the city is) but the literal second lupin's mentioned the entire genre of his life changes.

friendlier art style. genuinely smiling. the japanese roughly translates to "playtime's over". all of that intense shit they just showed him doing?? that's nothing. easy. just another day. but then BAM. LUIPIN. AND HIS LIFE STARTS FROM HERE. HIS LIFE STARTS FROM HERE.

there's no way the more introspective variations of his character don't think about, or at the very least consider it. he doesn't wholly understand everything about himself, but he knows what he is at his core and he knows what feels right and wrong.

the split between then and now probably throws him off. there's totally embarrassment for how he behaves with lupin versus dealing with the aftermath of lupin. imo the distinction between that transition period and now would probably be that he doesn't deny when he gets out of line anymore. takes it more in stride than being all denial-crazed/cagey about it, doesn't try to write it off as entirely lupin's fault. "there's always some softcore justice in there but that was mostly me doing what i wanted to do" he says to some effect in front of the burning dozen-car freeway pileup

but yeah. now this might just be how i interpret "self" in a general sense, but his true self is whatever he is at the present moment y'know? but there's no shot in hell that'd ever cross his mind lmao. nothing's ever so simple and it's alllllll lupin's fault

Sometimes I think about how Zenigata gave up his entire life for Lupin and I feel so full of every nameless emotion. Like… that is such pure love to me.

Imagine living a life where you’re respected by your peers and good at your job and every day when you go to the store the man at the counter knows you not because you’re on tv but because you’re a stand-up guy and a pillar in your local community, and then one day you realise you could have everything and nothing every day forever INSTEAD of a guaranteed regular adequacy all the time and you go, “that works,” because it means that you get to lay eyes on someone you hate to your core and love to your core and feeling everything is better to you than feeling just a little.

I wonder if Zeni lost himself a little in that transition, and how much he ‘found’ once it evened out. I wonder if he’s closer to two selves than one, now. The person he was before Lupin is so disconnected from who he is with Lupin to me. I’m not sure I could pinpoint which one is his ‘true’ self tbh. Also like.

Do you think in the same way Zenigata lost himself— his old self— when he found Lupin, Lupin found himself when he found Zenigata? Because I figure that kind of thing must click into place when, as someone who has spent their entire life feeling like a clone of those before you, suddenly you have a driving force that is all your own. You have a person who never went after your father or your grandfather, you have someone who hears your name and thinks of you and not them and it’s like. Wow I finally have the agency I’ve been craving.

Is that love? I think this is love. Maybe this is what they mean when they talk about how a relationship requires give and take. Sigh.

[snkpolls]

SnK Episode 60 Poll Results (for Anime Only Watchers)

The poll closed with 159 responses. Thank you to everyone who participated!

Please note that these are the results for the Anime Only Watchers’ poll. If you wish to see the results for the Manga Readers’ poll, click here. 

Anime only watchers, beware of spoilers if you venture over to the manga readers’ poll results.

--

RATE THE EPISODE 130 Responses

And we’re back! An explosive premiere brings the series back. The vast majority seemed to enjoy the episode, with only 2.3% of folks giving it a score below a 3.  

I thought some of the directing in the action scenes was odd and the music didn’t feel as well integrated/utilized as in past seasons.

If this season is consistently as good as this first episode, AOT will indeed end as a perfect masterpiece

ARE YOU HAPPY ABOUT THE CHANGE FROM WIT STUDIO TO MAPPA? 127 Responses

The Studio change from WIT Studio to MAPPA was a subject of much scrutiny and debate before the season’s release. With almost 61% showing some form of enthusiasm about a new studio’s take on the series. The opinion is not uniform, of course, with just over 18% stating their preference for WIT studio. Slightly less (17.3%) can’t give an answer yet and the rest don’t seem to care at all.  

I wished MAPPA would make the latter episodes a little more vibrant and lessen the blur

mappa as some of my favorite shows (banana fish, yuri on ice, etc) so it was kinda cool to see they picked up AOT szn 4 ! i’m excitedly waiting to watch the next episode, (and with my ‘watch partner’ aka tumblr friend who discusses with me as we watch LOL).

WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT THE CGI TITANS? 127 Responses

If there’s one thing that’s rather controversial about the series’ animation adaptation, then it’s certainly the use of CGI (particularly when animating Titans). The opinion of the fanbase seems to be rather positive, nonetheless. 72.4% of responders gave the CGI some praise (be it more open or more reserved), while 18.2% were more negative about the use of CGI. At the bottom was 9.4% who stated that they preferred WIT’s style of CGI to the one utilized in the episode.  

cgi wasn't bad but I was disappointed that it wasn't the 2d animation from the trailer

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE NEW OPENING? 128 Responses

When it came to the season’s opening, there was a positive response, with more than 72% expressing a favorable opinion. 21.1% didn’t seem to care for it and about 6% stated that they thoroughly disliked it. 

OP is WAY too overrated, nowhere near as good as the original, too much glorification of the kind of nationalism that led to Nazi germany's rise to power

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE NEW ENDING? 130 Responses

The new ending received very similar scores, with a similar figure of more than 72% expressing a positive view of the ending and a little over a quarter not caring for it. The proportion disliking it was much lower however, with only 2.3% of folks expressing those thoughts.

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE 4 YEAR TIME SKIP? 126 Responses

One of the grandest developments that came about in this episode is the fact that a 4 year time skip has occurred since the defeat of the Warriors in Shiganshina. Although there is a sizable minority expressing negative feelings (13.5%), the definitive majority is coming in with enthusiasm (70.6%). The rest are still thinking this change over. 

wtf is going on? Who are these new people? Why are we supposed to care about them if they're from Marley? Where are the main characters? Yeah, I suppose Reiner and Zeke technically count as MCs, but there is an appalling lack of 104th characters that needs to be fixed asap!

HOW DO YOU FEEL ABOUT THE SETTING CHANGE? 125 Responses

In a similar vein, a remarkable new development is a change of setting. The majority (almost 61%) see it in a positive light, while 16% seem to dislike it. Just over 19% aren’t certain yet. 

After what Reiner and co. did, I am not at all interested in their side of the story and just want Eren and co. to completely decimate these people

Fun to meet new characters but I'm eager to know whats going on with the characters we know

It feels a little disorienting but it's a logical progression of the story

Strange

Wouldnt mind the change of setting if we at least had it from the 104th's perspective

I wasn’t expecting it to be so focused on new characters, and I was disappointed at first but I’m indifferent now.

Not liking the new perspective. At least for this new batch of kids. If Reiner and Zeke are going to be a major focus for a while, wouldn't a short series of flashbacks for their pasta work better than a completely new spin-off from the main story?

WHICH NEW CHARACTER IS YOUR FAVORITE SO FAR? 125 Responses

As this episode introduced a lot of new characters, we got a colorful pie chart for this one. The plurality of responses (40%) chose the kind-hearted Falco, while 28% went with passionate Gabi. 14.4% chose the caring Colt and 13.6% went with the cool Jaw Titan holder. The last couple of responses picked out the stoic General Magath and the quiet Zofia. Poor Udo didn’t get a single vote!

I loved it. I love the new art style, my favorite scene was Gabi destroying the train, she's awesome. I really love Falco as well and Colt. Galliard's titan design is sick

I literally don't give a shit about these new kids, I don't care about their story, just bring back EMA and the 104th already!

WHO DO YOU THINK WILL INHERIT THE ARMORED TITAN? 125 Responses

Another colorful pie chart! An almost even split for the (possible) future inheritor of the Armored Titan. 37.6% believe Falco will take it, while 27.2% went with Gabi. 33.6% do not see any of the cadets inheriting Reiner’s titan and the last couple of votes went ahead to Zofia instead.

WHO HAD THE BETTER GLOW UP? 127 Responses

When drawing comparison to Reiner and Zeke’s looks in the previous season, there was a clear favorite among the responses - Reiner, with 74%. Zeke had the preference of 15% and those who didn’t feel like either of them “went through a glow up” took 11%. 

can we acknowledge how good zeke, reiner, and [redacted] looked 😌🥰

REINER PLEASE FUCK ME

WHAT DID YOU THINK OF THE JAW TITAN? 126 Responses

New season, new setting, new titan! The vast majority of viewers seem hyped about the Jaw Titan and find its design really cool. 15.9% aren’t as thrilled about it, and 9.5% haven’t decided yet. Most of the write-in comments implied a connection with the Jaw Titan. But for the purpose of avoiding spoiling those who haven’t drawn the same conclusion, we won’t be publishing them. Just know we see you. ;)

i was lowkey scared lmao

CART TITAN - BETTER WITH ARMOR OR WITHOUT? 127 Responses

We are reunited with the eerie Cart Titan from S3, but this time flexing cool armor and machine guns on its back! The overwhelming majority of respondents prefer it better tricked out in its armor, over a small minority who appreciate its natural creepiness more.

MOST OF THE EPISODE FOCUSES ON GABI. WHAT DO YOU THINK ABOUT HER? 124 Responses

Gabi appears to be a point of controversy among anime viewers already, with 38.7% viewing her favorably, 37.9% viewing her less favorably, and 16.9% not sure how to feel about her yet. Some comments feel she is similar to Eren in some ways, while others found her annoying. And yes, she did break international law. :P

Eren, but smol and female xD

I hate her already

I think she’s awesome

She's like Eren was

she passionately creepy but i like her lol

shes annoying

Gabi is SO annoying istfg really hope Falco gets more focus than Gabi, he seems nicer and more relatable

FALCO MENTIONED SOMETHING ABOUT “FLYING AROUND WITH A SWORD” AND “ATTACKING TITANS.” WHAT DO YOU MAKE OF THAT? 126 Responses

Overall, no one seems to know what’s going on, though many are theorizing that this is related to the paths, titan powers/memory transfer, or Eren somehow. What could this mean for the future of Falco’s character?

Dig at anime viewers returning to S4

He saw the memories of a survey corps member

I have a couple theories, regarding the memories that intelligent Titans share back and forth

maybe he had one of those flashback/forward things that erens dad had

WHO DO YOU THINK WAS BUYING THE NEWSPAPER AT THE END? 126 Responses

Nearly 90% of respondents are certain that this mystery character is someone we know, while just a small handful of people believe it’s someone new, and about the same amount not ready to make a call one way or the other yet. Some write-ins on the poll had guessed specifically who the character may be already. But we won’t spoil you just yet. 👀

The end credits guy is definitely someone we know, but I highly doubt it's Eren

The sharp-looking dude at the end just HAS to be someone we know on Paradis, there's no way they'd just throw us in to this new cast of nobodies without some connection to the main characters

WHAT DID YOU THINK OF ELDIANS BEING USED AS WAR FODDER? 126 Responses

The treatment of Eldians on the mainland is something that the majority of respondents see as detestable, with 87.3% finding the use of them as war fodder to be downright cruel. A smaller amount of people either felt it was a necessary evil, or didn’t feel strongly about it one way or the other. 

Literally waiting for the 104th to show up and fuck shit up for these inhumane monsters

That's what happens in the real world. The persecuted minority gets used as war fodder.

i d k 👀

DO YOU THINK IT’S POSSIBLE FOR RELATIONS BETWEEN ELDIANS AND MARLEYANS TO IMPROVE? 123 Responses

Colorful opinions mean more colorful pie charts! Most viewers feel that there is no way for the relations between Eldians and Marleyans to improve (30.1%) or that relations will never improve, with the exception of a rare few who are sympathetic to Eldians (22.8%). A smaller amount (totalling 32.5%) feel that it’s possible for things to improve whether it be due to a change in Marleyan leadership or due to the two sides having to come together for the greater good. 14.6% of respondents stand in the middle ground, unsure of whether relations can improve or not.

ADDITIONAL THOUGHTS ON THE EPISODE?

Honestly at first it was very confusing but overall I enjoyed it

So when do we get to see the 104th again?

I figured there would be more modern technology involved in the story, but I'm not a fan at all of the direction it's going so far. Makes me worried the ultimate basement reveal was the peak of AoT's greatness.

it was action filled!!! although i was sad so see that there are 16 episodes n not like 24(i think), it means every episode is gonna deliver!!! off to a great start, op and ed are amazing. renier had a nice glow up and JEAN WAS THAT U AT THE END?? yessir!!! beast titan looked ugly asf but when was he not ugly?? LOL

Idk wtf that opening was but I kinda like the ending. Falco seems like a good kid. I just REALLY hope he doesn't end up doing anything to hurt the protagonists (I fully expect Gabi to, she's already a violent ax-crazy kid)

just give me some Armin

WHERE. IS. EREN?

WHERE DO YOU PRIMARILY DISCUSS THE SERIES? 124 Responses

Thanks again everyone for participating in the poll! We look forward to seeing your responses for next week’s episode!

[playeroneplayertwo]

The Ten: 5.19

It seems a good icebreaker, or as good an icebreaker as any, to lay bare my top 10 of all time. Clear the air, so to speak. Get to know each other. It’s fair to say that this may be a make or break moment for us. Hopefully, I won’t lose you. Let’s see.

This is a list I imagine I’ll update periodically (which is why it’s dated), as my wife Kathleen (Player Two) and I play a lot of games, and a lot of new games. I’m a notoriously curious and searching type, and I love trying new games, sometimes to my wife’s chagrin. More often than not, my spare change goes to new games for the house. New games that make a splash tend to spike pretty high and then slowly fade. It’s not a great trait to have, especially in someone who tries to speak or write critically about quality (ie write reviews). But being that I’m aware of this, I hope that tempers it at least somewhat.

Anyway, where’s the list, you say? Here we go:

1. Brass: Birmingham (2018)

Oh boy, it’s a new one. Cult of the new? To be fair, Kathleen and I have played this game fairly regularly for the last eight months. By our third play or so, I knew it had locked itself into my top spot. I’d done a fair bit of research on the OG Brass (now Brass: Lancashire) prior to purchasing Brass: Birmingham, and by the time I eventually took the dive and purchased Birmingham, I was as excited to try it as I was unsure we’d actually enjoy it. At the time, it was the heaviest game we’d played, and it also relies heavily on route building–it’s in fact one of the most important parts of the game. I mention this because tactical spacial elements are not Kathleen’s forte. In fact, it’s one of her least favorite mechanics.

This is a good time to tell you that Kathleen and I think (and play games) very differently. Kathleen is a strategic player, relying on long term planning and execution to maximize scoring/performance. I, on the other hand, do not make long term plans. I find it not only remarkably difficult, but also unenjoyable. I’m a short term/tactical player. On my turn, I’m more likely to look over the board, get a lay of the land, and make the best, most advantageous play available to me at that moment.

Brass: Birmingham remarkably manages to cater to both of our play styles, which is one reason it ranks so high. Birmingham presents a myriad options for players to pursue. You’ve got a whole pile of different factory tiles you can build, a whole mess of locations or regions to move into, and about as many different strategies to pursue on your way to the end game. I don’t think I’ve ever played the same game of Brass: Birmingham twice, nor have I ever pursued the same options. The card play means, for me, that I will go where the cards lead, and I find using these cards as a guide to build my engine incredibly satisfying.

2. Covert (2016)

Dice placement. For some reason, this mechanic sounds incredibly unappealing to me, and I think it’s because it’s literally a portmanteau mechanic consisting of the worker placement mechanic using dice, two individual mechanisms that I seem to enjoy less and less. Dice I tend to avoid for their randomness (yes, I know that’s the point), and Worker Placement, in it’s most stereotypical application, I find frustrating. Why can’t I just put my worker wherever I want and just run my engine? Being stymied in a worker placement game just annoys the hell out of me.

So why do I love Covert?

It’s a pretty straightforward points race built around mission cards that have specific requirements. And using the dice as workers seems a fairly typical euro mechanism, but what I like about Covert is how puzzly it is. When you place your dice workers, they’ll be placed on round tracks with spaces numbered 1-6, and you won’t be able to place a die unless it’s adjacent to another die. In this case, you can do anything you want, but only if you plan correctly and work well with the other players. It becomes an order of operations puzzle, which may frustrate some, but I love it.

Also, I can’t get enough of that spy theme. And the production is fantastic.

3. Eldritch Horror (2013)

Ah, Cthulhu. For being the spawn of such a troubled person (HP Lovecraft), I find Cthulhu’s mythos and surrounding universe positively enthralling. 

But dice! Ugh yes, this is a huge, sprawling, long, and [sorta] bloated game that is built all around a very simple dice rolling resolution system. I have no way of justifying why this doesn’t bug me, but it just doesn’t.

Maybe I’m just a sap for the theme (Indiana Jones + Cthulhu = Win). Or maybe it’s nostalgia, considering this is the game on my top ten that I’ve played the most and had the longest. But, if I try to dig into the real reasoning here, it’s probably because this game manages to give you a big, rich, story-based experience that feels like an event when it’s over. Yes, it’s the biggest, longest play session on this list. But I love every minute of it. Even those maddening bad dice rolls.

4. Lord of the Rings: The Card Game (2011)

A long time ago, Kathleen and I came to this hobby via Magic: The Gathering, the deep, long standing king of the collectible card game. Magic is a great game, but it brings out the worst in me as a gamer. Playing Magic makes me both a bad winner and bad loser. Frankly, that’s a terrible combination. Why would you want to play with me at all?

This obvious problem led us to cooperative board games. If I’m gonna lose, why don’t I just lose with you. That’s a refreshing change of pace!

And speaking of losing, hey let’s talk about Lord of the Rings: The Card Game. The word used most frequently when talking about this game–by me and pretty much anybody who’s ever played it–is PUNISHING. And yes, it’s punishing. Kathleen and I have played a few punishing euros at this point (feed those people), but this is something else. Get a few bad card flips from the encounter deck and you’re suddenly up to your eyeballs in LOTR baddies. Orcs and goblins? Oh hai. But your dwarves or hobbits or whatever are never really out of it. Smart deck building (and luck) definitely has carried us out of the tall grass on more than one occasion. And there’s something to be said for a game as well balanced as Lord of the Rings. More than once, a game has concluded on a turn where we either win or lose based on that single turn’s outcome.

The theme doesn’t really do much for me, but I took the dive on this game because it looked like a well-designed and well-supported cooperative card game (of which there really aren’t too many). It’s stood tall over the years, and I hope it continues for a while. When I first played Arkham Horror: The Card Game, I figured it would knock this down a peg or two. But the designers’ ingenuity in the LOTR quests and encounter deck designs has been (for me, at least) a much more rewarding experience.

And I appreciate a cooperative game where you actually lose more often than you win. It seems a rarity in the co-ops we have.

5. Great Western Trail (2016)

I’d heard and read so much about this game prior to purchasing it that I almost didn’t even want to get it (which is exactly how I feel about Concordia and Trajan, subsequently). I dig the cowboy theme, but beyond that, I’d pretty much phased out all the actual details on this game’s gameplay.

But yeah, it really is good. Ya’ll were right. I love games that are heavy but are built around simple gameplay, and Great Western Trail epitomizes that. One your turn you move your cowboy on the (effectively) huge rondel board and then take an action on the space where you stop. That’s it. 

The beauty of the game comes from the remarkable breadth of options you can pursue. Using cowboys to buy cows, hiring engineers to move your train and build stations, hiring carpenters to build buildings and busy up the board, and completing objectives are some of the main tasks you’ll be focusing on, and what really clicks for me with Great Western Trail is that it’s a tactical player’s dream. The board is constantly changing, and as it changes, so must your plans. The objective cards steer you somewhat, but you’ve really gotta cut your own path across the wilderness here.

Oh, and I love deckbuilding as a sort of side dish mechanic. It isn’t always enough to sustain a whole game, but it’s great as a single piece of a pie.

6. Gloomhaven (2017)

All right, so this big beast has moved all over my ranking in the year+ since my first game. I won’t lie, it sat at #1 for a while. Then it slid a little, then a little more. I mean, it’s still at #6, so it’s not exactly plummeting. It’s the Board Game Geek #1 game of all time (as of this writing), and it’s hard to say if it’s deserving of this (and if not, what deserves the spot instead). Again, this is so subjective, and games like this or Scythe tend to be lightning rods for people who want to take a shot at the new hotness.

But yes, it’s good. It’s very good. I’m not as enamored by the sprawling nature of it as I was, nor the campaign, but being a person who loves variety, it’s scope is certainly a nice bonus. But after you haven’t played it in a while, it becomes a HUGE box that takes up a whole shelf and is a bear to set back up. And even though the box is 20lbs and takes up a whole shelf and the game takes 20+ minutes just to set up, the card play in Gloomhaven is just stellar. I love that this is essentially a tactical minis game with a euro engine. Tactical minis games rank incredibly low on my chart o’ interest, but this game takes that standard tactical minis expectation and smashes the shit out of it. 

Despite its niggling flaws, it’s an excellent game.

7. The Exit Series (2017-?)

This is the last co-op game on my list, and I just looked back and saw that there are four on here. I was just talking to Kathleen about how much I’d rather play competitive games instead of co-ops, and apparently I said that in a moment completely lacking self-awareness. Also, this is a cheaty kind of entry considering we’ve played at least eight Exit games.

Remember when I said that I liked Eldritch Horror because it was an event game that provided a big, rich experience? Well, the Exit games give you a meaty, brainier experience in a slightly shorter time period. There’s not much story–despite the designers really trying to cram one in there–but I’ll always love Exit because it’s become our Date Night game. Kathleen and I will get some nice booze, take out food, and sit down with a new Exit after we put our son to bed. The experience can be frustrating–remember we think very differently, but each experience has always been something to remember (except the Secret Lab; what happened in that one?). Special props to Exit: Dead Man on the Orient Express, in particular.

The puzzles are really satisfying when you crack them, especially after working on them for a while. We take longer than average to do these because we resist those hint cards as much as possible, so our games can stretch. But Exit should be an event, and when savored like one, it doesn’t let you down.

Also, if you have concerns about the value of an Exit game, if you look at it as an event (like going to the movies or *cough cough* playing T.I.M.E. Stories), it’s actually a very good value. Recycle it!

And finally, yes, Exit trumps Unlock any day of the week.

8. Glory to Rome (2005)

That Glory to Rome is out of print is a cryin’ shame. Our copy isn’t even a real copy, I printed a crappy DIY version at Staples and then cut and sleeved them with old Magic commons. Our copy looks bad, is cut unevenly, and has eery MTG watermarks shining through the thin weight paper, and I couldn’t care less. This game is awesome. It’s got about a million different combos that are all seemingly game-breaking, but the fact that everything is so powerful is really what makes this game so exciting.

Multi-use cards are one of my favorite mechanic, and this game is completely built around them. And like any well-designed game that is build all around cards, the design of this never leaves you feeling hamstrung by bad card draw. If you’re doing badly at Glory to Rome, it’s your fault. Sorry. You haven’t found the combo that will win the game for you. I can say this because I’m terrible at Glory to Rome, and I know it. That’s not saying I’ve not won before. I have, but more likely than not it was because I accidentally stumbled onto something good. 

Like Brass: Birmingham, no two games of Glory to Rome are the same. There are so many cards in the box, and the subtle sense of humor that permeates some of the cards just tickles me (please see: latrine).

It’s fast and exciting, and giving you options on other players’ turns is also one of my favorite mechanics.  I’ll happily play and lose Glory to Rome anytime.

9. Nippon (2015)

Full disclosure, this is the newest edition to this list, and Kathleen and I have only played this a few times, but there’s something about this game that really fascinates me. 

At first blush, it feels like Brass, but it’s not. Like Brass, this is an economic engine, but it doesn’t allow the multi-turn build up to The Big Turn like Brass. Then I thought it was a little like Great Western Trail, but it’s not really like that either. Great Western Trail presents a ton of options, but by the end of the game, you really need to work on all of them, at least a little bit, or else your score will suffer. Nippon, however, doesn’t make you do a little bit of everything. There are a number of elements in Nippon (like trains), that can be all but ignored except for certain circumstances. It’s a game built around area control via slow burn engine building. A number of other elements to the game are very specific tools you can use to hone that engine, but could just as easily prove useless under the wrong conditions.

This may be misdirected musings by someone who hasn’t played the game enough, but it feels right to me. The last time we played, I came to the realization that the game felt so fraught because I was trying to do too much. The game presents you with a large amount of avenues to pursue because you don’t actually have to pursue them all; you can’t, there’s not enough time in the game (or money!). You need to choose your actions and build the best engine as quickly as possible.

Nippon is a cutthroat fight that feels both wickedly fast and frustratingly slow at the same time. Special bonuses for completely subverting the worker placement mechanic with its own implementation that runs the whole game. It’s a puzzle that I have relished greatly.

10. Star Wars: The Card Game (2012)

Two Fantasy Flight LCGs on the list? Sweet Christmas!

But yes, this is a great game. I’m not sure it ever got much love, and it saddens me that it’s now dead, but it’s such an interesting design. That it does a fine job of simplifying deck construction is just a bonus.

I appreciate that Star Wars feels like a game of high stakes gambling. The first few turns are slow and quiet as you work through your deck and build your forces, but once conflict erupts, everything tends to break wide open. Each decision you make has massive repercussions, as single large mistakes will lose you the game. Add in some actual bluffing and a ticking clock, and this is the simplified and streamlined (if safer and less wild) version of Doomtown: Reloaded, another card game that I absolutely love. 

But where I think Doomtown ultimately fails, Star Wars succeeds. The game doesn’t get bogged down in complexity, and instead feels relatively streamlined considering its medium weight. Every time I play this game, I’m impressed by how smart Eric Lang’s design is. I feel like he played a ton of Magic: The Gathering, and then he removed all the things that bothered him (and bothered me, too).

I think this game is overlooked and underplayed, and dare I say forgotten, but for my money, it’s absolutely worth revisiting. And played over and over again.

Please remember, this list will change. Check back occasionally to see how. If you have any questions or opinions of your own, let me know in the comments!

Thanks for reading!

Eric (Player One)

[sweetlifetownsville]

Hi-Jacking Australia Day: Photo Op Fail Shows That The Mayor Knows How Deep She Is In The Electoral Doo-Doos

Shameless in its hypocrisy, utterly stupid in its transparency Jenny Hill and her team claim honours they WERE NOT awarded, in a bumbled bit of cheap campaigning chicanery. For all that, The Pie owes Jenny Hill an apology or does he? Could it be that he err short-changed her when writing about the LGAQ last week? There seems to be some murky financial (albeit apparently legal) fancy financial footwork in the local governments published reports. The Pie has a beak around to see if he really must offer to Jenny what she was forced to offer Clive Palmer an abject apology. (Good luck with the $50 grand part of it, though.) An unfortunate choice by the Townsville Chamber of Commerce and a truly shameful one by the Bulletin.. Plus, Bentleys hilarious take that will make Katter go Katter-tonic and in addition to our usual visual visit to the week in Trumpistan, a wonderful pictorial insight into how time reverses our values. But first Bobs A Real Pain The Arse The Mad Katter was at again this week, describing homosexuality as a fashion trend, and making the ingenuous dopey statement that In my whole life up to 50, I had never seen or heard of a homosexual person. Well, you probably met heaps of them, Bob, but in that time period, the laws of the day made it advisable not to advertise the fact. And one wonders if he doth protest a tad much could the Member for Kennedy be on a late-life slide into iniquity? Theres been a hint when you host a barbie in a shirt that looks like it was bought at Peter Allen garage sale, casually slung over a Ripcurl T-shirt, youre poised at the top of the slippery slope we call life-style choices. Indeed, our visionary toonist Bentley can clearly see the next passing phase for our Bob. Of course, this is all in fun, we all know that Bob is a solid, upstanding member, a real hands-on bloke who has a strong grip on things despite all his giggling and gasping. Still In Bentley territory, our man reckons not everybody is unhappy with our current heat wave across the country. And he is right about The Pies reaction, but being a considerate chap, Bentley has omitted the brown stains in the water behind the old bird. Low Blow In a shameful tabloid attempt at sensationalism, the Townsville Bulletin has surpassed itself on this, our national day when we talk up that we live in The Land of the Fair Go. In one of the most denigrating efforts yet by this floundering fish of a paper, we were treated to this below-the-belt guilt by association dog whistling front page. And the sleazy effort just got worse and worse, especially when a reporter quizzed him with what can only be an accusatory question on any possible involvement with his aunts drug dealing, indicated by the use of the word denied. QUOTE: Mr Dametto denied having any prior knowledge of his aunts alleged involvement with drugs before her arrest and assured his constituents, he did not condone the use of dangerous drugs. I havent (been involved in drugs) nor any other member of my family to my knowledge, Mr Dametto said.(The alleged offending) has nothing to do with me, its something she has to sort out herself. UNQUOTE The fact that they asked the question no one had considered, with not a shred of even remote suggestion, is straight up political dog whistling the chorus of Ha! yeah, right from the LNP and Labor banjo-playing set is already plunking away. If Jenna Cairney and her band of work experience reporters think this is a good tactic to fill space, perhaps theyd like to door knock the parents and relatives of the juvenile little shits charged with stealing cars and property, and ask them if they had any prior knowledge or involvement the exploits of their little snots. One imagines such effrontery would meet with what some cops describe as summary justice and no argument there from this old bird. Truly base stuff, Ms Cairney. And Your Bizarre Story Placements Continue Apace Jeez-us, fair dinkum. When It Comes To Snide Stupidity, Jenna And Jenny Make A Pigeon Pair If ever proof was needed that our mayor is wetting herself about her plunging popularity and failure to fool ANY of the people ANY of the time, it came in the online Bulletin this weekend. Heres a little puzzle of current affairs test for you. Read the caption first, and then see a) how many Australia Day award winners you can spot, and b) see how many Team Hill councillors you can spot. And the Astonisher certainly has its political priorities right the caption lists Mayor Mullet and Premier Alphabet but failed to mention that dorky looking bloke in the center. Oh, him, hes not worth mentioning, just the Governor of Queensland and former Chief Justice Paul de Jersey. But then have a look along the line search as he could, The Pie was not able to see it reported anywhere that either Clr Ann-Maree Greaney, Clr Maurie Soares, Clr Colleen Boo Hoo Doyle, Clr Les Messagebank Walker, Mayor Mullet Jenny Hill, or Clr Kurt Rehbein had received any Australia Day honours. So WTF are THEY doing, holding some sort of prize, which if it is an Australia Day Award, is grossly dishonest to say the least a pathetic please re-elect me plea? They are making themselves out to be winners of some sort which is looking more and more unlikely next time around. But OK, why is the old bird surprised, this is about the level of honesty weve come to expect from these denizens of the Walker Street trough. Its such a thigh-slapping inept attempt at campaign virtue signalling it has just proved two things shes desperate and shes dumb. But or All that, Mayor Mullet May Get Back In A new study of Townsville voters has discovered why we have the political representation we have. Well, at least it explains it for us, but not much can be done, youd reckon. Now, Having Said That, Maybe The Magpie Owes Mrs Hill An Apology Last week and on a couple of previous occasions The Pie has snidely written that Mayor Mullet picks up $31K a year in fees plus expenses for attending 6 LGAQ meeting a year as one of the three ordinary directors of the Association. She will retain that position until June 2020. Well, shame-faced as he is to say it, it appears that The Magpie may be WRONG (clutch the pearls to throat, gals, splutter in your Scotch and Fanta, gents). And this error is a direct, albeit unintended, slur on our mayor, by wantonly questioning the worth of her invaluable visionary qualities and her legendary financial acumen, particularly in Indian industrial and aviation matters. Because it seems her spare-time gig at the LGAQ earns her nowhere near $31,000 p.a. It looks like its closer to $95,000 per annum! Which becomes even more interesting when you consider that the TCC pays about $250K a year membership, so it in essence means that her services to the LGAQ are in fact paid for by Townsville ratepayers as part of the citys membership fee. Indeed, it seems we stump up a total a very worth while total, mind you, who could argue of just under $300,000 a year for her incomparable leadership as she charts a clever path out of our current financial and employment morass. The Pie humbly apologises for underselling you so despicably, Mrs Hill, when you devote so much of your time so selflessly to the public good of Townsville. There will be sneering Doubting Thomases who question your championing of the Local Buy procurement arm of the LGAQ, which actually takes work OUT of this city. Those doubters say that the claimed efficiencies dont actually save the council anything, but pshaw! what would they know? They simply have no head for these sorts of figures and deals and they certainly dont understand the pressures of your obligation to an organisation that slips you almost a hundred grand a year to raise your voting arm when told. Oh, the irony, the irony. But, You Cry, Is This True? Well, it certainly seems so to better financial sleuths than The Magpie, but it all depends how you decipher the murky and ambiguous figures published by he LGAQ. Rubbery was a word bandied about frequently. And just to pique our interest, there is a little mystery item mentioned, but that later on. Lets go the LGAQ Annual Report, where on page 35 we find this as a starter. Now the remuneration seems pretty clear there sort of but it has the rubbery words ranged between. (And a brief digression they sure aint bound by pissant thoughts of CPI or inflation down at the LGAQ note the rise in fees from 2017 to 2018 a tasty 35% for the president and an eye-watering 100% for directors. And the 2017 figures dont add up anyway, which is rubbery/sloppy in itself, with no explanation offered. Makes one wonder. The question here is would someone like Jenny Hill from a place the size of Townsville (for round figures, let say 200,000) be willing to accept the same stipend as say Alf Lacey from Palm Island, which has what, about three to five thousand people? Methinks not in a month of Sundays, and PI membership would be a tiny fraction of Townsvilles.) Then we see this chart, which again seem clear. Or is it not? The disparity between the President and the directors $137,422 v $31,000 ($94,280 split three ways rounded out here) is not believable to one executive who deals in these areas. He thinks the real remuneration, especially for Jenny Hill, is actually about $94,000. But whether it totals that from these figures (where there would obviously have to be some accounting error), things get even more interesting if he scroll back to page 20, we find this And this Now these reports can be heavy going even for accountants at times, and impossible for the likes by The Magpie, but our experienced Magpie mate writes: The cost of directors fees and meeting fees for the year are $618,294 (page 20) this would kind of add up to me like 3 directors @ $95k plus the president @ $137k total of $422k leaving another $196k to be accounted for so I think the directors get 95K still and travel and accommodation listed separately as $734,441 (page 20) So all in all, maybe Jenny Hill is worth the money she gets as a director worth it to the LGAQ, anyway, when it presumably is she who calls the shots on the councils membership fees. All this is courtesy of the Townsville ratepayers. The loveliness continues. Oh, and that little mystery. Just this But to be sure, since the LGAQ runs an insurance arm, it will surely be covered for whatever alleged indiscretion did or did not take place either way, it gunna cost. A (un-doctored) Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words A somewhat antiquated clich borne out by an alert reader who reckons his shot in Flinders Street just about sums up Townsvilles quandary. And another reader pic is being repeated across the city at a growing rate. Sloppy unfinished work and weeds all around contractor or council, totally unacceptable, and could be a traffic hazard, especially in the wet. Of course, not all councils can get things right, even the mighty Randwick Council in Sydney which has its own wrestle with signage. Be interesting if a Great Dane owned by a dwarf takes a dump. Did The Townsville Chamber of Commerce Really Think About The Wisdom Of This? Putting an image of a hungry looking porker on the stationery of an outfit representing private business seems a bit risky. But it gets more pointed when it is advertising a Townsville information session for the LGAQs Local Buy mob. Of course, in very small print, the presence of porky is explained as recognition of the Chambers Chinese membership, it is the Year of the Pig. Well, come to think of it, it IS an election year Pot Calling Kettle Award Of The Week. This goes to US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, addressing an emergency meeting of the Organisation of American States last Wednesday on the unrest in Venezuela, and rescinding recognition of the elected leader. He said: The time for debate is done. The regime of former President Nicholas Maduro is illegitimate. His regime is morally bankrupt, economically incompetent and it is profoundly corrupt. It is undemocratic to the core. All absolutely correct except for two words, and many Americans know which two they are but guess you wouldnt know, Mikey, what a gerbil performance history awaits you, fella. We can shortly expect Trump to recognise Pauline Hanson as Australias legitimate leader, and for the forthcoming elections to be cancelled, since elections have little meaning in Washington. Apparently. But before Trump can make any such declaration how Australia can be governed, he will need the permission of the man behind him. And thats just the start for this week in Trumpistan. And Finally, For A Final Rueful Laugh Or Two. Time and technology play unexpected tricks on us, taking just a few short years to reverse human behaviour. .. Thats it for this week, but as usual, comments are running hot on all sorts of topics, so have your say, comments can be posted 24/7. And if youre in a kindly mood (or just drunk, doesnt matter) a donation to help the old bird keep floating above it all is always appreciated and put to good use. The how to donate button is below. http://www.townsvillemagpie.com.au/hi-jacking-australia-day-photo-op-fail-shows-that-the-mayor-knows-how-deep-she-is-in-the-electoral-doo-doos/

[cynthiajayusa]

What’s Hot Central Florida: March 2018

Friday, March 2

Southern Nights Tampa presents NeiBEARhood Takeover: Green Kilt Ball, which is a fundraiser by Brady Bodiford for Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and will feature adult male video star Jack Vidra and DJ JB Burgos. They will also feature Gobearr Gear & Tampa Bay Bears and a 1am Jock Strap Auction. This is a 21+ only event and is free before 10. 

Stonewall Bar Orlando presents the 1st Annual Stache Bash. Check your pants at the door and wear your mustache proudly. They invite everyone to dance, drink and celebrate The Stache featuring hot mustached Go-Go Men, DJ Skinner & your favorite Stonewall bartenders! Cash and prizes for Sexiest and Trashiest Stache!

Celebrity Management presents “The Bitch is Back” starring Joe Posa as Joan Rivers with special guest Tony Tripoli tonight and tomorrow night (Sat March 3) at 7:30p.m. at the Parliament House. Admission is $25 and VIP is $30 (includes Photo Op), and can be purchased at phouseorlando.eventbrite.com.

Saturday, March 3

Hamburger Mary’s Brandon presents Darkiel live in concert. Doors open at 10p.m. with concert at 11p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at Tickeri.com, and $20 at the door (VIP – $30). This is an 18 and over event!

The Parliament House presents their annual Mardi Gras extravaganza and Parade Spectacular. This event includes floats, marching bands, beads, the Footlight Players and much more!

Sunday, March 5

The Flamingo Resort presents Central Florida National Showgirl, Showgirl at Large & Showman pageants…a triple crowning hosted by Iman and starring the national court: Alexis Mateo, Crytal Belle and Aries M Kelly. The categories include: Personal Interview, Evening Gown (Showgirl, showgirl at large), Glitz Formal Wear (Showman), and Talent. Admission is $10 and doors open at 6p.m. with the pageant starting promptly at 7p.m.

Tuesday, March 6

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents The Color Purple from today until March 11, which is the 2016 Tony Award winner for Best Musical Revival! This joyous American classic has conquered Broadway in an all-new “ravishingly reconceived production that is a glory to behold” (The New York Times) directed by Tony winner John Doyle. With a soul-raising score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues, The Color Purple gives an exhilarating new spirit to this Pulitzer Prize-winning story. Don’t miss this stunning re-imagining of an epic story about a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language, with tickets starting at $31.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents The Wizard of Oz tonight and tomorrow at 7p.m. A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, this production will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling Oz. The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. Tickets start at $56.

Wednesday, March 7

The Straz Center for the performing Arts presents “Blame It On Bianca.” The alter ego of comic Roy Haylock and season six winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Bianca Del Rio remains the reigning queen of hate with her hilarious, double-edged and triple-barbed stand-up shows. Audiences loved her Not Today Satan performance at The Straz two years ago, and she is back with a brand-new show. The New York Times calls Rio “the Joan Rivers of the drag world,” and Rivers herself called Rio’s humor “so funny! So sharp!” Tickets start at $49.50. 

Thursday, March 8

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents the American rock band Daughtry, which was formed and fronted by namesake Chris Daughtry, a finalist on the fifth season of American Idol. Since forming, Daughtry has released four studio albums, scored four No. 1 hits, garnered four Grammy nominations, won four American Music Awards, won three People’s Choice Awards, sold over 8.2 million albums and 16 million singles worldwide and sold out concerts around the globe. The concert starts at 8pm with tickets starting at $56.

Friday, March 9

Today and tomorrow, Saturday, 10, the Improv Comedy Club and restaurant Tampa presents the one and only Margaret Cho. This is a 21 and up show with tickets starting at $25.

Saturday, March 10

Southern Nights Orlando presents “The Devil Wears Prada: The Dragsical” with doors opening at 8p.m. and show time at 9p.m starring  MR MS Adrien as Miranda, Natalia Taylor Adonis as Andy,  Natalie Nayles as Emily, Mike Van Dyke as Nigel and featuring Dallas Cole & Dre Green. Tickets are $20. The Devil Wears Prada: The Dragsical is a 45 minute live musical show based off of the iconic film. Written and directed by MR MS Adrien, this show is the first in a series of Dragsicals… not quite a drag show, not quite a musical, where they retell your favorite stories the way they were meant to be told… with drag queens and music! 

Tuesday, March 13

Amway Center presents Romeo Santos in his “Golden Tour” at 8p.m. The tour is titled after Santos’ latest studio album “Golden,” which was released in 2017 and earned the biggest sales week for a Latin studio album not only of 2017, but in over two years. The album also marks Santos’ fourth No. 1 on the Top Latin Albums chart and his third top 10 on the Billboard 200. Tickets start at $36.50.

Wednesday, March 14

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents Audra McDonald, who is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry as both a singer and an actress which makes her the powerhouse artist that she is. The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and an Emmy Award, she was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2015 and received a 2015 National Medal of Arts from President Barack Obama. “She is a one-of-a-kind musical super-talent … as a singer she is an irreplaceable resource.” – The New York Times. Her show starts at 8p.m., and tickets starts at $56. 

Thursday, March 15

Comedian, actor, radio host and bestselling author, Jay Mohr has been performing stand-up comedy since he was sixteen years old, with a career that has spanned over three decades. Catch Jay performing in two locations in central Florida: Improv Comedy Theater and restaurant Tampa from today until March 17 and then Improv Comedy Theater and restaurant Orlando from March 22-24.

Side Splitters Comedy Club presents, direct from America’s Got Talent, Preacher Lawson from tonight through Sunday, March 18. Daily show time is at 8 pm with admission $25 and 2 drink minimum. This is an 18 and over event! 

Friday, March 16

Stonewall Bar Orlando presents The Glitter Ball at 9p.m. This Emerald Fantasy will take you through a whole new journey as they come together to support two great organizations: Miracle of Love and Stafford House, Expect to be entertained with hints of green, glow, and glitter throughout this amazing fundraising extravaganza, which is hosted by Lacie Browing. The night will also feature a 50/50 Raffle. Tickets are only $5 in advance or $10 at the door. If you’re having a blast at the fundraiser, stay a little longer as they transition the evening into an Emerald Fantasy Fetish Party from 11 p.m. to 2 am. 

The Dr. Phillips Center presents Anita Baker at 8p.m. in her farewell concert series to express gratitude to her second generation of millennial fans that keep her name trending on Twitter, have viewed her videos on YouTube more than 20 million times and have streamed her more on Spotify than the sales of her platinum albums! Kendrick Lamar, Lalah Hathaway and Andre 3000 claim her as their musical inspiration and seek her out! Anita has won 8 Grammy Awards, had 7 albums (including 6 platinum) and 6 world tours. Tickets start at: $49.50.

Saturday, March 17

Southern Nights Tampa presents “Let’s Get Shamrocked…A St Patrick’s Day Event”  with doors opening at 4p.m. and the parade at 8p.m. Drag Show at 12am with Roxxxy Andrews, Jade Embers and guests with DJs Dutch and Scott Robert, This is a 18 and over event!

Dr. Phillips Center presents in Joe Rogan in his “Strange Times 2018 Tour” with 2 shows: 8p.m.and 10:30p.m. A stand-up comedian for more than 20 years, Joe Rogan sells out theaters internationally with his inquisitive and intense comedic style. Rogan is host of The Joe Rogan Experience, featuring long-form conversation with guests, and it’s one of the most popular comedy podcasts on iTunes. Tickets start at $39.50.

Sunday, March 18

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents 2 shows tonight: The first is Ana Gasteyer, who when stepping up to the mic evokes the swagger of an era when a lady ruled a nightclub and an audience knew they were in for a good time. The patter is real, the themes adult; the lyrics are timeless and the music swings like crazy. This six-season Saturday Night Live alum graduated from Studio 8H to Broadway, eventually landing in her ultimate element – the cabaret. Tickets start at $35.50.  The second is Tiffany. Red-haired 80s pop sensation Tiffany charmed America with her legendary mall tour that gave a generation “I Think We’re Alone Now” and “Could’ve Been.” From skyrocketing teen success, Tiffany settled in the tight-knit Nashville songwriting community in her adult years — which led to her acclaimed EP Rose Tattoo and latest album A Million Miles. This storied singer appears with a pop-country concert packed with her greatest hits and more. Tickets start at $34.50.

Tuesday, March 20

Fairwinds Broadway in Orlando presents Waitress from today through March 25–25 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Waitress is a musical version of the film of the same name, featuring creatively titled pies and a score by Sara Bareilles. Waitress tells the story of Jenna – a waitress and expert pie maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life. Tickets start at $34.25.

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents The Bodyguard from today until March 25. Based on the smash hit film, the award-winning musical will star Grammy Award nominee and R&B superstar Deborah Cox! Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from and unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A breathtakingly romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features a host of irresistible classics including “Queen of the Night,” “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and one of the biggest selling songs of all time – “I Will Always Love You.”  Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language. Tickets start at $39.

Thursday, March 22

Southern Nights Orlando presents The Animation Party, A night where your favorite cartoon characters are brought to life on the dance floor stage! Two show times: 10:30 Freshman Lineup hosted by MrMs Adrien with special guests and 12:30  main show hosted by Axel Andrews, and stars Roxxxy Andrews , Kaija Adonis , Kitana Gemini and Dollya Black.  DJ DLUX spins all night! 

Amalie Arena presents Disney On Ice: Reach For The Stars from today until March 25. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Sebastian, Ariel, Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Belle, and much more take to the ice. Tickets start at $18.

Friday, March 23

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents Lewis Black in his “The Joke’s on US Tour” at 8p.m. Lewis is a Grammy-Award-winning, stand-up comedian, and is one of the most prolific and popular performers working today. He executes a brilliant trifecta as a stand-up comedian, actor and author. He is a passionate performer who is a more pissed-off optimist than a mean-spirited curmudgeon. Lewis is the rare comic who can cause an audience to laugh themselves into incontinence while making compelling points about the absurdity of our world. Tickets start at $41.

Saturday, March 24

The 4th annual Tampa Pride Parade and Street Festival will take place on Saturday March 24, from 10:00am – 5:00pm in historic Ybor City, also known as the GaYBOR District. This is now an annual spring event when Florida weather is at its best!  For more information on the parade, festival, Grand Marshall’s, parties, etc. visit TampaPride.org.

Tuesday, March 27

FL Falun Dafa Association presents Shen Yun 2018, where they invite you to experience a Divine Culture today and tomorrow at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Heroes, mischief and miracles, everyone likes a good story, and. Chinese culture has 5,000 years of them. Folktales, legends, and timeless classics make up this magical world of immortals and miracles. Tickets start at $80.

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents Beautiful – The Carole King Musical from today until April 1. Long before she was Carole King, chart-topping music legend, she was Carol Klein, Brooklyn girl with passion and chutzpah. She fought her way into the record business as a teenager and, by the time she reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flourishing career writing hits for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll.  But it wasn’t until her personal life began to crack that she finally managed to find her true voice. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language. Tickets start at $46.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Center presents Motown, The Musical starting tonight and going through April 1. Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music! Tickets start at $56.

Friday, March 30

Dr. Phillips Center presents Maks, Val & Peta on Tour: Confidential. Confidential is their all-new dance tour following their smash hit “Our Way” national tour that was all about family. The greatest performances come from artists with deep emotional connections to their work. Confidential provides the deepest connection possible, with the cast able to draw upon their own family bonds, lives and love stories. Confidential will be their most honest show yet, revealing secrets, hopes and dreams. The show will inspire and delight, and by learning a little more about Maks, Val and Peta you might learn a little bit more about yourselves. Tickets start at $39.50.

Saturday, March 31

Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum singer and songwriter Demi Lovato, and special guest multi-platinum, hip-hop icon DJ Khaled wrap up their 20 city tour today at 7:30 PM at the Amalie Arena. Ticket start at $29.95.

source https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/02/22/whats-hot-central-florida-march-2018/ from Hot Spots Magazine http://hotspotsmagazin.blogspot.com/2018/02/whats-hot-central-florida-march-2018.html

[demitgibbs]

What’s Hot Central Florida: March 2018

Friday, March 2

Southern Nights Tampa presents NeiBEARhood Takeover: Green Kilt Ball, which is a fundraiser by Brady Bodiford for Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and will feature adult male video star Jack Vidra and DJ JB Burgos. They will also feature Gobearr Gear & Tampa Bay Bears and a 1am Jock Strap Auction. This is a 21+ only event and is free before 10. 

Stonewall Bar Orlando presents the 1st Annual Stache Bash. Check your pants at the door and wear your mustache proudly. They invite everyone to dance, drink and celebrate The Stache featuring hot mustached Go-Go Men, DJ Skinner & your favorite Stonewall bartenders! Cash and prizes for Sexiest and Trashiest Stache!

Celebrity Management presents “The Bitch is Back” starring Joe Posa as Joan Rivers with special guest Tony Tripoli tonight and tomorrow night (Sat March 3) at 7:30p.m. at the Parliament House. Admission is $25 and VIP is $30 (includes Photo Op), and can be purchased at phouseorlando.eventbrite.com.

Saturday, March 3

Hamburger Mary’s Brandon presents Darkiel live in concert. Doors open at 10p.m. with concert at 11p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at Tickeri.com, and $20 at the door (VIP – $30). This is an 18 and over event!

The Parliament House presents their annual Mardi Gras extravaganza and Parade Spectacular. This event includes floats, marching bands, beads, the Footlight Players and much more!

Sunday, March 5

The Flamingo Resort presents Central Florida National Showgirl, Showgirl at Large & Showman pageants…a triple crowning hosted by Iman and starring the national court: Alexis Mateo, Crytal Belle and Aries M Kelly. The categories include: Personal Interview, Evening Gown (Showgirl, showgirl at large), Glitz Formal Wear (Showman), and Talent. Admission is $10 and doors open at 6p.m. with the pageant starting promptly at 7p.m.

Tuesday, March 6

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents The Color Purple from today until March 11, which is the 2016 Tony Award winner for Best Musical Revival! This joyous American classic has conquered Broadway in an all-new “ravishingly reconceived production that is a glory to behold” (The New York Times) directed by Tony winner John Doyle. With a soul-raising score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues, The Color Purple gives an exhilarating new spirit to this Pulitzer Prize-winning story. Don’t miss this stunning re-imagining of an epic story about a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language, with tickets starting at $31.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents The Wizard of Oz tonight and tomorrow at 7p.m. A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, this production will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling Oz. The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. Tickets start at $56.

Wednesday, March 7

The Straz Center for the performing Arts presents “Blame It On Bianca.” The alter ego of comic Roy Haylock and season six winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Bianca Del Rio remains the reigning queen of hate with her hilarious, double-edged and triple-barbed stand-up shows. Audiences loved her Not Today Satan performance at The Straz two years ago, and she is back with a brand-new show. The New York Times calls Rio “the Joan Rivers of the drag world,” and Rivers herself called Rio’s humor “so funny! So sharp!” Tickets start at $49.50. 

Thursday, March 8

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents the American rock band Daughtry, which was formed and fronted by namesake Chris Daughtry, a finalist on the fifth season of American Idol. Since forming, Daughtry has released four studio albums, scored four No. 1 hits, garnered four Grammy nominations, won four American Music Awards, won three People’s Choice Awards, sold over 8.2 million albums and 16 million singles worldwide and sold out concerts around the globe. The concert starts at 8pm with tickets starting at $56.

Friday, March 9

Today and tomorrow, Saturday, 10, the Improv Comedy Club and restaurant Tampa presents the one and only Margaret Cho. This is a 21 and up show with tickets starting at $25.

Saturday, March 10

Southern Nights Orlando presents “The Devil Wears Prada: The Dragsical” with doors opening at 8p.m. and show time at 9p.m starring  MR MS Adrien as Miranda, Natalia Taylor Adonis as Andy,  Natalie Nayles as Emily, Mike Van Dyke as Nigel and featuring Dallas Cole & Dre Green. Tickets are $20. The Devil Wears Prada: The Dragsical is a 45 minute live musical show based off of the iconic film. Written and directed by MR MS Adrien, this show is the first in a series of Dragsicals… not quite a drag show, not quite a musical, where they retell your favorite stories the way they were meant to be told… with drag queens and music! 

Tuesday, March 13

Amway Center presents Romeo Santos in his “Golden Tour” at 8p.m. The tour is titled after Santos’ latest studio album “Golden,” which was released in 2017 and earned the biggest sales week for a Latin studio album not only of 2017, but in over two years. The album also marks Santos’ fourth No. 1 on the Top Latin Albums chart and his third top 10 on the Billboard 200. Tickets start at $36.50.

Wednesday, March 14

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents Audra McDonald, who is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry as both a singer and an actress which makes her the powerhouse artist that she is. The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and an Emmy Award, she was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2015 and received a 2015 National Medal of Arts from President Barack Obama. “She is a one-of-a-kind musical super-talent … as a singer she is an irreplaceable resource.” – The New York Times. Her show starts at 8p.m., and tickets starts at $56. 

Thursday, March 15

Comedian, actor, radio host and bestselling author, Jay Mohr has been performing stand-up comedy since he was sixteen years old, with a career that has spanned over three decades. Catch Jay performing in two locations in central Florida: Improv Comedy Theater and restaurant Tampa from today until March 17 and then Improv Comedy Theater and restaurant Orlando from March 22-24.

Side Splitters Comedy Club presents, direct from America’s Got Talent, Preacher Lawson from tonight through Sunday, March 18. Daily show time is at 8 pm with admission $25 and 2 drink minimum. This is an 18 and over event! 

Friday, March 16

Stonewall Bar Orlando presents The Glitter Ball at 9p.m. This Emerald Fantasy will take you through a whole new journey as they come together to support two great organizations: Miracle of Love and Stafford House, Expect to be entertained with hints of green, glow, and glitter throughout this amazing fundraising extravaganza, which is hosted by Lacie Browing. The night will also feature a 50/50 Raffle. Tickets are only $5 in advance or $10 at the door. If you’re having a blast at the fundraiser, stay a little longer as they transition the evening into an Emerald Fantasy Fetish Party from 11 p.m. to 2 am. 

The Dr. Phillips Center presents Anita Baker at 8p.m. in her farewell concert series to express gratitude to her second generation of millennial fans that keep her name trending on Twitter, have viewed her videos on YouTube more than 20 million times and have streamed her more on Spotify than the sales of her platinum albums! Kendrick Lamar, Lalah Hathaway and Andre 3000 claim her as their musical inspiration and seek her out! Anita has won 8 Grammy Awards, had 7 albums (including 6 platinum) and 6 world tours. Tickets start at: $49.50.

Saturday, March 17

Southern Nights Tampa presents “Let’s Get Shamrocked…A St Patrick’s Day Event”  with doors opening at 4p.m. and the parade at 8p.m. Drag Show at 12am with Roxxxy Andrews, Jade Embers and guests with DJs Dutch and Scott Robert, This is a 18 and over event!

Dr. Phillips Center presents in Joe Rogan in his “Strange Times 2018 Tour” with 2 shows: 8p.m.and 10:30p.m. A stand-up comedian for more than 20 years, Joe Rogan sells out theaters internationally with his inquisitive and intense comedic style. Rogan is host of The Joe Rogan Experience, featuring long-form conversation with guests, and it’s one of the most popular comedy podcasts on iTunes. Tickets start at $39.50.

Sunday, March 18

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents 2 shows tonight: The first is Ana Gasteyer, who when stepping up to the mic evokes the swagger of an era when a lady ruled a nightclub and an audience knew they were in for a good time. The patter is real, the themes adult; the lyrics are timeless and the music swings like crazy. This six-season Saturday Night Live alum graduated from Studio 8H to Broadway, eventually landing in her ultimate element – the cabaret. Tickets start at $35.50.  The second is Tiffany. Red-haired 80s pop sensation Tiffany charmed America with her legendary mall tour that gave a generation “I Think We’re Alone Now” and “Could’ve Been.” From skyrocketing teen success, Tiffany settled in the tight-knit Nashville songwriting community in her adult years — which led to her acclaimed EP Rose Tattoo and latest album A Million Miles. This storied singer appears with a pop-country concert packed with her greatest hits and more. Tickets start at $34.50.

Tuesday, March 20

Fairwinds Broadway in Orlando presents Waitress from today through March 25–25 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Waitress is a musical version of the film of the same name, featuring creatively titled pies and a score by Sara Bareilles. Waitress tells the story of Jenna – a waitress and expert pie maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life. Tickets start at $34.25.

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents The Bodyguard from today until March 25. Based on the smash hit film, the award-winning musical will star Grammy Award nominee and R&B superstar Deborah Cox! Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from and unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A breathtakingly romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features a host of irresistible classics including “Queen of the Night,” “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and one of the biggest selling songs of all time – “I Will Always Love You.”  Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language. Tickets start at $39.

Thursday, March 22

Southern Nights Orlando presents The Animation Party, A night where your favorite cartoon characters are brought to life on the dance floor stage! Two show times: 10:30 Freshman Lineup hosted by MrMs Adrien with special guests and 12:30  main show hosted by Axel Andrews, and stars Roxxxy Andrews , Kaija Adonis , Kitana Gemini and Dollya Black.  DJ DLUX spins all night! 

Amalie Arena presents Disney On Ice: Reach For The Stars from today until March 25. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Sebastian, Ariel, Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Belle, and much more take to the ice. Tickets start at $18.

Friday, March 23

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents Lewis Black in his “The Joke’s on US Tour” at 8p.m. Lewis is a Grammy-Award-winning, stand-up comedian, and is one of the most prolific and popular performers working today. He executes a brilliant trifecta as a stand-up comedian, actor and author. He is a passionate performer who is a more pissed-off optimist than a mean-spirited curmudgeon. Lewis is the rare comic who can cause an audience to laugh themselves into incontinence while making compelling points about the absurdity of our world. Tickets start at $41.

Saturday, March 24

The 4th annual Tampa Pride Parade and Street Festival will take place on Saturday March 24, from 10:00am – 5:00pm in historic Ybor City, also known as the GaYBOR District. This is now an annual spring event when Florida weather is at its best!  For more information on the parade, festival, Grand Marshall’s, parties, etc. visit TampaPride.org.

Tuesday, March 27

FL Falun Dafa Association presents Shen Yun 2018, where they invite you to experience a Divine Culture today and tomorrow at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Heroes, mischief and miracles, everyone likes a good story, and. Chinese culture has 5,000 years of them. Folktales, legends, and timeless classics make up this magical world of immortals and miracles. Tickets start at $80.

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents Beautiful – The Carole King Musical from today until April 1. Long before she was Carole King, chart-topping music legend, she was Carol Klein, Brooklyn girl with passion and chutzpah. She fought her way into the record business as a teenager and, by the time she reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flourishing career writing hits for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll.  But it wasn’t until her personal life began to crack that she finally managed to find her true voice. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language. Tickets start at $46.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Center presents Motown, The Musical starting tonight and going through April 1. Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music! Tickets start at $56.

Friday, March 30

Dr. Phillips Center presents Maks, Val & Peta on Tour: Confidential. Confidential is their all-new dance tour following their smash hit “Our Way” national tour that was all about family. The greatest performances come from artists with deep emotional connections to their work. Confidential provides the deepest connection possible, with the cast able to draw upon their own family bonds, lives and love stories. Confidential will be their most honest show yet, revealing secrets, hopes and dreams. The show will inspire and delight, and by learning a little more about Maks, Val and Peta you might learn a little bit more about yourselves. Tickets start at $39.50.

Saturday, March 31

Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum singer and songwriter Demi Lovato, and special guest multi-platinum, hip-hop icon DJ Khaled wrap up their 20 city tour today at 7:30 PM at the Amalie Arena. Ticket start at $29.95.

from Hotspots! Magazine https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/02/22/whats-hot-central-florida-march-2018/ from Hot Spots Magazine https://hotspotsmagazine.tumblr.com/post/171171278255

[hotspotsmagazine]

What’s Hot Central Florida: March 2018

Friday, March 2

Southern Nights Tampa presents NeiBEARhood Takeover: Green Kilt Ball, which is a fundraiser by Brady Bodiford for Tampa Bay Sisters of Perpetual Indulgence, and will feature adult male video star Jack Vidra and DJ JB Burgos. They will also feature Gobearr Gear & Tampa Bay Bears and a 1am Jock Strap Auction. This is a 21+ only event and is free before 10. 

Stonewall Bar Orlando presents the 1st Annual Stache Bash. Check your pants at the door and wear your mustache proudly. They invite everyone to dance, drink and celebrate The Stache featuring hot mustached Go-Go Men, DJ Skinner & your favorite Stonewall bartenders! Cash and prizes for Sexiest and Trashiest Stache!

Celebrity Management presents “The Bitch is Back” starring Joe Posa as Joan Rivers with special guest Tony Tripoli tonight and tomorrow night (Sat March 3) at 7:30p.m. at the Parliament House. Admission is $25 and VIP is $30 (includes Photo Op), and can be purchased at phouseorlando.eventbrite.com.

Saturday, March 3

Hamburger Mary’s Brandon presents Darkiel live in concert. Doors open at 10p.m. with concert at 11p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance at Tickeri.com, and $20 at the door (VIP – $30). This is an 18 and over event!

The Parliament House presents their annual Mardi Gras extravaganza and Parade Spectacular. This event includes floats, marching bands, beads, the Footlight Players and much more!

Sunday, March 5

The Flamingo Resort presents Central Florida National Showgirl, Showgirl at Large & Showman pageants…a triple crowning hosted by Iman and starring the national court: Alexis Mateo, Crytal Belle and Aries M Kelly. The categories include: Personal Interview, Evening Gown (Showgirl, showgirl at large), Glitz Formal Wear (Showman), and Talent. Admission is $10 and doors open at 6p.m. with the pageant starting promptly at 7p.m.

Tuesday, March 6

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents The Color Purple from today until March 11, which is the 2016 Tony Award winner for Best Musical Revival! This joyous American classic has conquered Broadway in an all-new “ravishingly reconceived production that is a glory to behold” (The New York Times) directed by Tony winner John Doyle. With a soul-raising score of jazz, gospel, ragtime and blues, The Color Purple gives an exhilarating new spirit to this Pulitzer Prize-winning story. Don’t miss this stunning re-imagining of an epic story about a young woman’s journey to love and triumph in the American South. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language, with tickets starting at $31.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents The Wizard of Oz tonight and tomorrow at 7p.m. A spectacular celebration of the iconic 1939 MGM film, this production will blow you away from the moment the tornado touches down and transports you to a dazzling Oz. The entire family will be captivated as they travel down the Yellow Brick Road and beyond with Dorothy, Toto and their friends the Cowardly Lion, Tin Man and Scarecrow in this lavish production, featuring breathtaking special effects, dazzling choreography and classic songs. Tickets start at $56.

Wednesday, March 7

The Straz Center for the performing Arts presents “Blame It On Bianca.” The alter ego of comic Roy Haylock and season six winner of RuPaul’s Drag Race, Bianca Del Rio remains the reigning queen of hate with her hilarious, double-edged and triple-barbed stand-up shows. Audiences loved her Not Today Satan performance at The Straz two years ago, and she is back with a brand-new show. The New York Times calls Rio “the Joan Rivers of the drag world,” and Rivers herself called Rio’s humor “so funny! So sharp!” Tickets start at $49.50. 

Thursday, March 8

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents the American rock band Daughtry, which was formed and fronted by namesake Chris Daughtry, a finalist on the fifth season of American Idol. Since forming, Daughtry has released four studio albums, scored four No. 1 hits, garnered four Grammy nominations, won four American Music Awards, won three People’s Choice Awards, sold over 8.2 million albums and 16 million singles worldwide and sold out concerts around the globe. The concert starts at 8pm with tickets starting at $56.

Friday, March 9

Today and tomorrow, Saturday, 10, the Improv Comedy Club and restaurant Tampa presents the one and only Margaret Cho. This is a 21 and up show with tickets starting at $25.

Saturday, March 10

Southern Nights Orlando presents “The Devil Wears Prada: The Dragsical” with doors opening at 8p.m. and show time at 9p.m starring  MR MS Adrien as Miranda, Natalia Taylor Adonis as Andy,  Natalie Nayles as Emily, Mike Van Dyke as Nigel and featuring Dallas Cole & Dre Green. Tickets are $20. The Devil Wears Prada: The Dragsical is a 45 minute live musical show based off of the iconic film. Written and directed by MR MS Adrien, this show is the first in a series of Dragsicals… not quite a drag show, not quite a musical, where they retell your favorite stories the way they were meant to be told… with drag queens and music! 

Tuesday, March 13

Amway Center presents Romeo Santos in his “Golden Tour” at 8p.m. The tour is titled after Santos’ latest studio album “Golden,” which was released in 2017 and earned the biggest sales week for a Latin studio album not only of 2017, but in over two years. The album also marks Santos’ fourth No. 1 on the Top Latin Albums chart and his third top 10 on the Billboard 200. Tickets start at $36.50.

Wednesday, March 14

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents Audra McDonald, who is unparalleled in the breadth and versatility of her artistry as both a singer and an actress which makes her the powerhouse artist that she is. The winner of a record-breaking six Tony Awards, two Grammy Awards and an Emmy Award, she was named one of Time magazine’s 100 most influential people of 2015 and received a 2015 National Medal of Arts from President Barack Obama. “She is a one-of-a-kind musical super-talent … as a singer she is an irreplaceable resource.” – The New York Times. Her show starts at 8p.m., and tickets starts at $56. 

Thursday, March 15

Comedian, actor, radio host and bestselling author, Jay Mohr has been performing stand-up comedy since he was sixteen years old, with a career that has spanned over three decades. Catch Jay performing in two locations in central Florida: Improv Comedy Theater and restaurant Tampa from today until March 17 and then Improv Comedy Theater and restaurant Orlando from March 22-24.

Side Splitters Comedy Club presents, direct from America’s Got Talent, Preacher Lawson from tonight through Sunday, March 18. Daily show time is at 8 pm with admission $25 and 2 drink minimum. This is an 18 and over event! 

Friday, March 16

Stonewall Bar Orlando presents The Glitter Ball at 9p.m. This Emerald Fantasy will take you through a whole new journey as they come together to support two great organizations: Miracle of Love and Stafford House, Expect to be entertained with hints of green, glow, and glitter throughout this amazing fundraising extravaganza, which is hosted by Lacie Browing. The night will also feature a 50/50 Raffle. Tickets are only $5 in advance or $10 at the door. If you’re having a blast at the fundraiser, stay a little longer as they transition the evening into an Emerald Fantasy Fetish Party from 11 p.m. to 2 am. 

The Dr. Phillips Center presents Anita Baker at 8p.m. in her farewell concert series to express gratitude to her second generation of millennial fans that keep her name trending on Twitter, have viewed her videos on YouTube more than 20 million times and have streamed her more on Spotify than the sales of her platinum albums! Kendrick Lamar, Lalah Hathaway and Andre 3000 claim her as their musical inspiration and seek her out! Anita has won 8 Grammy Awards, had 7 albums (including 6 platinum) and 6 world tours. Tickets start at: $49.50.

Saturday, March 17

Southern Nights Tampa presents “Let’s Get Shamrocked…A St Patrick’s Day Event”  with doors opening at 4p.m. and the parade at 8p.m. Drag Show at 12am with Roxxxy Andrews, Jade Embers and guests with DJs Dutch and Scott Robert, This is a 18 and over event!

Dr. Phillips Center presents in Joe Rogan in his “Strange Times 2018 Tour” with 2 shows: 8p.m.and 10:30p.m. A stand-up comedian for more than 20 years, Joe Rogan sells out theaters internationally with his inquisitive and intense comedic style. Rogan is host of The Joe Rogan Experience, featuring long-form conversation with guests, and it’s one of the most popular comedy podcasts on iTunes. Tickets start at $39.50.

Sunday, March 18

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents 2 shows tonight: The first is Ana Gasteyer, who when stepping up to the mic evokes the swagger of an era when a lady ruled a nightclub and an audience knew they were in for a good time. The patter is real, the themes adult; the lyrics are timeless and the music swings like crazy. This six-season Saturday Night Live alum graduated from Studio 8H to Broadway, eventually landing in her ultimate element – the cabaret. Tickets start at $35.50.  The second is Tiffany. Red-haired 80s pop sensation Tiffany charmed America with her legendary mall tour that gave a generation “I Think We’re Alone Now” and “Could’ve Been.” From skyrocketing teen success, Tiffany settled in the tight-knit Nashville songwriting community in her adult years — which led to her acclaimed EP Rose Tattoo and latest album A Million Miles. This storied singer appears with a pop-country concert packed with her greatest hits and more. Tickets start at $34.50.

Tuesday, March 20

Fairwinds Broadway in Orlando presents Waitress from today through March 25–25 at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Waitress is a musical version of the film of the same name, featuring creatively titled pies and a score by Sara Bareilles. Waitress tells the story of Jenna – a waitress and expert pie maker who dreams of a way out of her small town and loveless marriage. A baking contest in a nearby county and the town’s new doctor may offer her a chance at a fresh start, while her fellow waitresses offer their own recipes for happiness. But Jenna must summon the strength and courage to rebuild her own life. Tickets start at $34.25.

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents The Bodyguard from today until March 25. Based on the smash hit film, the award-winning musical will star Grammy Award nominee and R&B superstar Deborah Cox! Former Secret Service agent turned bodyguard, Frank Farmer, is hired to protect superstar Rachel Marron from and unknown stalker. Each expects to be in charge; what they don’t expect is to fall in love. A breathtakingly romantic thriller, The Bodyguard features a host of irresistible classics including “Queen of the Night,” “So Emotional,” “One Moment in Time,” “Saving All My Love,” “Run to You,” “I Have Nothing,” “I Wanna Dance with Somebody” and one of the biggest selling songs of all time – “I Will Always Love You.”  Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language. Tickets start at $39.

Thursday, March 22

Southern Nights Orlando presents The Animation Party, A night where your favorite cartoon characters are brought to life on the dance floor stage! Two show times: 10:30 Freshman Lineup hosted by MrMs Adrien with special guests and 12:30  main show hosted by Axel Andrews, and stars Roxxxy Andrews , Kaija Adonis , Kitana Gemini and Dollya Black.  DJ DLUX spins all night! 

Amalie Arena presents Disney On Ice: Reach For The Stars from today until March 25. Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy, Anna, Elsa, Olaf, Sebastian, Ariel, Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Belle, and much more take to the ice. Tickets start at $18.

Friday, March 23

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall presents Lewis Black in his “The Joke’s on US Tour” at 8p.m. Lewis is a Grammy-Award-winning, stand-up comedian, and is one of the most prolific and popular performers working today. He executes a brilliant trifecta as a stand-up comedian, actor and author. He is a passionate performer who is a more pissed-off optimist than a mean-spirited curmudgeon. Lewis is the rare comic who can cause an audience to laugh themselves into incontinence while making compelling points about the absurdity of our world. Tickets start at $41.

Saturday, March 24

The 4th annual Tampa Pride Parade and Street Festival will take place on Saturday March 24, from 10:00am – 5:00pm in historic Ybor City, also known as the GaYBOR District. This is now an annual spring event when Florida weather is at its best!  For more information on the parade, festival, Grand Marshall’s, parties, etc. visit TampaPride.org.

Tuesday, March 27

FL Falun Dafa Association presents Shen Yun 2018, where they invite you to experience a Divine Culture today and tomorrow at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts. Heroes, mischief and miracles, everyone likes a good story, and. Chinese culture has 5,000 years of them. Folktales, legends, and timeless classics make up this magical world of immortals and miracles. Tickets start at $80.

The Straz Center for the Performing Arts presents Beautiful – The Carole King Musical from today until April 1. Long before she was Carole King, chart-topping music legend, she was Carol Klein, Brooklyn girl with passion and chutzpah. She fought her way into the record business as a teenager and, by the time she reached her twenties, had the husband of her dreams and a flourishing career writing hits for the biggest acts in rock ‘n’ roll.  But it wasn’t until her personal life began to crack that she finally managed to find her true voice. Intended for mature audiences; contains adult themes and language. Tickets start at $46.

The Van Wezel Performing Arts Center presents Motown, The Musical starting tonight and going through April 1. Motown The Musical is the true American dream story of Motown founder Berry Gordy’s journey from featherweight boxer to the heavyweight music mogul who launched the careers of Diana Ross, Michael Jackson, Smokey Robinson and many more. Motown shattered barriers, shaped our lives and made us all move to the same beat. Featuring classic songs such as “My Girl” and “Ain’t No Mountain High Enough,” experience the story behind the music! Tickets start at $56.

Friday, March 30

Dr. Phillips Center presents Maks, Val & Peta on Tour: Confidential. Confidential is their all-new dance tour following their smash hit “Our Way” national tour that was all about family. The greatest performances come from artists with deep emotional connections to their work. Confidential provides the deepest connection possible, with the cast able to draw upon their own family bonds, lives and love stories. Confidential will be their most honest show yet, revealing secrets, hopes and dreams. The show will inspire and delight, and by learning a little more about Maks, Val and Peta you might learn a little bit more about yourselves. Tickets start at $39.50.

Saturday, March 31

Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum singer and songwriter Demi Lovato, and special guest multi-platinum, hip-hop icon DJ Khaled wrap up their 20 city tour today at 7:30 PM at the Amalie Arena. Ticket start at $29.95.

from Hotspots! Magazine https://hotspotsmagazine.com/2018/02/22/whats-hot-central-florida-march-2018/

[sweetlifetownsville]

Hi-Jacking Australia Day: Photo Op Fail Shows That The Mayor Knows How Deep She Is In The Electoral Doo-Doos

Shameless in its hypocrisy, utterly stupid in its transparency Jenny Hill and her team claim honours they WERE NOT awarded, in a bumbled bit of cheap campaigning chicanery. For all that, The Pie owes Jenny Hill an apology or does he? Could it be that he err short-changed her when writing about the LGAQ last week? There seems to be some murky financial (albeit apparently legal) fancy financial footwork in the local governments published reports. The Pie has a beak around to see if he really must offer to Jenny what she was forced to offer Clive Palmer an abject apology. (Good luck with the $50 grand part of it, though.) An unfortunate choice by the Townsville Chamber of Commerce and a truly shameful one by the Bulletin.. Plus, Bentleys hilarious take that will make Katter go Katter-tonic and in addition to our usual visual visit to the week in Trumpistan, a wonderful pictorial insight into how time reverses our values. But first Bobs A Real Pain The Arse The Mad Katter was at again this week, describing homosexuality as a fashion trend, and making the ingenuous dopey statement that In my whole life up to 50, I had never seen or heard of a homosexual person. Well, you probably met heaps of them, Bob, but in that time period, the laws of the day made it advisable not to advertise the fact. And one wonders if he doth protest a tad much could the Member for Kennedy be on a late-life slide into iniquity? Theres been a hint when you host a barbie in a shirt that looks like it was bought at Peter Allen garage sale, casually slung over a Ripcurl T-shirt, youre poised at the top of the slippery slope we call life-style choices. Indeed, our visionary toonist Bentley can clearly see the next passing phase for our Bob. Of course, this is all in fun, we all know that Bob is a solid, upstanding member, a real hands-on bloke who has a strong grip on things despite all his giggling and gasping. Still In Bentley territory, our man reckons not everybody is unhappy with our current heat wave across the country. And he is right about The Pies reaction, but being a considerate chap, Bentley has omitted the brown stains in the water behind the old bird. Low Blow In a shameful tabloid attempt at sensationalism, the Townsville Bulletin has surpassed itself on this, our national day when we talk up that we live in The Land of the Fair Go. In one of the most denigrating efforts yet by this floundering fish of a paper, we were treated to this below-the-belt guilt by association dog whistling front page. And the sleazy effort just got worse and worse, especially when a reporter quizzed him with what can only be an accusatory question on any possible involvement with his aunts drug dealing, indicated by the use of the word denied. QUOTE: Mr Dametto denied having any prior knowledge of his aunts alleged involvement with drugs before her arrest and assured his constituents, he did not condone the use of dangerous drugs. I havent (been involved in drugs) nor any other member of my family to my knowledge, Mr Dametto said.(The alleged offending) has nothing to do with me, its something she has to sort out herself. UNQUOTE The fact that they asked the question no one had considered, with not a shred of even remote suggestion, is straight up political dog whistling the chorus of Ha! yeah, right from the LNP and Labor banjo-playing set is already plunking away. If Jenna Cairney and her band of work experience reporters think this is a good tactic to fill space, perhaps theyd like to door knock the parents and relatives of the juvenile little shits charged with stealing cars and property, and ask them if they had any prior knowledge or involvement the exploits of their little snots. One imagines such effrontery would meet with what some cops describe as summary justice and no argument there from this old bird. Truly base stuff, Ms Cairney. And Your Bizarre Story Placements Continue Apace Jeez-us, fair dinkum. When It Comes To Snide Stupidity, Jenna And Jenny Make A Pigeon Pair If ever proof was needed that our mayor is wetting herself about her plunging popularity and failure to fool ANY of the people ANY of the time, it came in the online Bulletin this weekend. Heres a little puzzle of current affairs test for you. Read the caption first, and then see a) how many Australia Day award winners you can spot, and b) see how many Team Hill councillors you can spot. And the Astonisher certainly has its political priorities right the caption lists Mayor Mullet and Premier Alphabet but failed to mention that dorky looking bloke in the center. Oh, him, hes not worth mentioning, just the Governor of Queensland and former Chief Justice Paul de Jersey. But then have a look along the line search as he could, The Pie was not able to see it reported anywhere that either Clr Ann-Maree Greaney, Clr Maurie Soares, Clr Colleen Boo Hoo Doyle, Clr Les Messagebank Walker, Mayor Mullet Jenny Hill, or Clr Kurt Rehbein had received any Australia Day honours. So WTF are THEY doing, holding some sort of prize, which if it is an Australia Day Award, is grossly dishonest to say the least a pathetic please re-elect me plea? They are making themselves out to be winners of some sort which is looking more and more unlikely next time around. But OK, why is the old bird surprised, this is about the level of honesty weve come to expect from these denizens of the Walker Street trough. Its such a thigh-slapping inept attempt at campaign virtue signalling it has just proved two things shes desperate and shes dumb. But or All that, Mayor Mullet May Get Back In A new study of Townsville voters has discovered why we have the political representation we have. Well, at least it explains it for us, but not much can be done, youd reckon. Now, Having Said That, Maybe The Magpie Owes Mrs Hill An Apology Last week and on a couple of previous occasions The Pie has snidely written that Mayor Mullet picks up $31K a year in fees plus expenses for attending 6 LGAQ meeting a year as one of the three ordinary directors of the Association. She will retain that position until June 2020. Well, shame-faced as he is to say it, it appears that The Magpie may be WRONG (clutch the pearls to throat, gals, splutter in your Scotch and Fanta, gents). And this error is a direct, albeit unintended, slur on our mayor, by wantonly questioning the worth of her invaluable visionary qualities and her legendary financial acumen, particularly in Indian industrial and aviation matters. Because it seems her spare-time gig at the LGAQ earns her nowhere near $31,000 p.a. It looks like its closer to $95,000 per annum! Which becomes even more interesting when you consider that the TCC pays about $250K a year membership, so it in essence means that her services to the LGAQ are in fact paid for by Townsville ratepayers as part of the citys membership fee. Indeed, it seems we stump up a total a very worth while total, mind you, who could argue of just under $300,000 a year for her incomparable leadership as she charts a clever path out of our current financial and employment morass. The Pie humbly apologises for underselling you so despicably, Mrs Hill, when you devote so much of your time so selflessly to the public good of Townsville. There will be sneering Doubting Thomases who question your championing of the Local Buy procurement arm of the LGAQ, which actually takes work OUT of this city. Those doubters say that the claimed efficiencies dont actually save the council anything, but pshaw! what would they know? They simply have no head for these sorts of figures and deals and they certainly dont understand the pressures of your obligation to an organisation that slips you almost a hundred grand a year to raise your voting arm when told. Oh, the irony, the irony. But, You Cry, Is This True? Well, it certainly seems so to better financial sleuths than The Magpie, but it all depends how you decipher the murky and ambiguous figures published by he LGAQ. Rubbery was a word bandied about frequently. And just to pique our interest, there is a little mystery item mentioned, but that later on. Lets go the LGAQ Annual Report, where on page 35 we find this as a starter. Now the remuneration seems pretty clear there sort of but it has the rubbery words ranged between. (And a brief digression they sure aint bound by pissant thoughts of CPI or inflation down at the LGAQ note the rise in fees from 2017 to 2018 a tasty 35% for the president and an eye-watering 100% for directors. And the 2017 figures dont add up anyway, which is rubbery/sloppy in itself, with no explanation offered. Makes one wonder. The question here is would someone like Jenny Hill from a place the size of Townsville (for round figures, let say 200,000) be willing to accept the same stipend as say Alf Lacey from Palm Island, which has what, about three to five thousand people? Methinks not in a month of Sundays, and PI membership would be a tiny fraction of Townsvilles.) Then we see this chart, which again seem clear. Or is it not? The disparity between the President and the directors $137,422 v $31,000 ($94,280 split three ways rounded out here) is not believable to one executive who deals in these areas. He thinks the real remuneration, especially for Jenny Hill, is actually about $94,000. But whether it totals that from these figures (where there would obviously have to be some accounting error), things get even more interesting if he scroll back to page 20, we find this And this Now these reports can be heavy going even for accountants at times, and impossible for the likes by The Magpie, but our experienced Magpie mate writes: The cost of directors fees and meeting fees for the year are $618,294 (page 20) this would kind of add up to me like 3 directors @ $95k plus the president @ $137k total of $422k leaving another $196k to be accounted for so I think the directors get 95K still and travel and accommodation listed separately as $734,441 (page 20) So all in all, maybe Jenny Hill is worth the money she gets as a director worth it to the LGAQ, anyway, when it presumably is she who calls the shots on the councils membership fees. All this is courtesy of the Townsville ratepayers. The loveliness continues. Oh, and that little mystery. Just this But to be sure, since the LGAQ runs an insurance arm, it will surely be covered for whatever alleged indiscretion did or did not take place either way, it gunna cost. A (un-doctored) Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words A somewhat antiquated clich borne out by an alert reader who reckons his shot in Flinders Street just about sums up Townsvilles quandary. And another reader pic is being repeated across the city at a growing rate. Sloppy unfinished work and weeds all around contractor or council, totally unacceptable, and could be a traffic hazard, especially in the wet. Of course, not all councils can get things right, even the mighty Randwick Council in Sydney which has its own wrestle with signage. Be interesting if a Great Dane owned by a dwarf takes a dump. Did The Townsville Chamber of Commerce Really Think About The Wisdom Of This? Putting an image of a hungry looking porker on the stationery of an outfit representing private business seems a bit risky. But it gets more pointed when it is advertising a Townsville information session for the LGAQs Local Buy mob. Of course, in very small print, the presence of porky is explained as recognition of the Chambers Chinese membership, it is the Year of the Pig. Well, come to think of it, it IS an election year Pot Calling Kettle Award Of The Week. This goes to US Secretary of State, Mike Pompeo, addressing an emergency meeting of the Organisation of American States last Wednesday on the unrest in Venezuela, and rescinding recognition of the elected leader. He said: The time for debate is done. The regime of former President Nicholas Maduro is illegitimate. His regime is morally bankrupt, economically incompetent and it is profoundly corrupt. It is undemocratic to the core. All absolutely correct except for two words, and many Americans know which two they are but guess you wouldnt know, Mikey, what a gerbil performance history awaits you, fella. We can shortly expect Trump to recognise Pauline Hanson as Australias legitimate leader, and for the forthcoming elections to be cancelled, since elections have little meaning in Washington. Apparently. But before Trump can make any such declaration how Australia can be governed, he will need the permission of the man behind him. And thats just the start for this week in Trumpistan. And Finally, For A Final Rueful Laugh Or Two. Time and technology play unexpected tricks on us, taking just a few short years to reverse human behaviour. .. Thats it for this week, but as usual, comments are running hot on all sorts of topics, so have your say, comments can be posted 24/7. And if youre in a kindly mood (or just drunk, doesnt matter) a donation to help the old bird keep floating above it all is always appreciated and put to good use. The how to donate button is below. http://www.townsvillemagpie.com.au/hi-jacking-australia-day-photo-op-fail-shows-that-the-mayor-knows-how-deep-she-is-in-the-electoral-doo-doos/