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The biggest film festival of the year — sorry Sundance and Canne — Gasparilla Film Festival takes over theaters across the Cigar City through Sunday, March 9.
Here’s a few films we’re eyeing:
“A Portrait of a Postman” takes viewers to Waco, Texas, sharing the story of the only American ever commissioned by Hermès.
“Billy Knight” chronicles a film student as he chases a cinematic ghost across Tinseltown.
“Silver Screamers” follows a group of senior citizens as they make — you guessed it — a horror movie.
It’s not all movies, so make sure you also check out panels, workshops, and bonus programming.
Bonus: If you love going to the movies and discussing them with fellow cinephiles, consider checking out a screening with The Jekyll Film Society. The Hyde Park bar screens everything from classics like “The Godfather II” to newer hits like “Ratatouille.”
Asked
Asked
Which movie WASN’T made in Tampa?
A. “Goodfellas” B. “Strategic Sea Command” C. “Magic Mike” D. “Zola”
Remember the project to redevelop The Claw? Earlier this week, the Hillsborough County Board of County Commissioners approved $24 million toward the effort. The county is pulling money from its Community Investment Tax to pay for a pedestrian bridge over Fletcher Avenue and other safety upgrades. (Tampa Bay Times)
Coming Soon
The old manager of The Pearl is debuting a brand-new venture on the ground floor of the Ave Tampa Riverwalk. La Victoria will serve dishes like shrimp tostadas, chilaquiles, and empanadas, along with cocktails. We’ll keep you posted on the timeline. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Biz
Outback is on the way up. Bloomin’ Brands, one of Tampa Bay’s biggest companies, just reported increased traffic at the steakhouse brand for the first time since 2021. It’s part of the Aussie-themed spot’s $75 revamp plan. (Tampa Bay Business Journal)
Transit
The Burg is rolling out a slew of road improvements this spring. Workers upgraded the flood-prone 37th Street North and 9th Avenue North intersection with a new stormwater system featuring better catch basin capacity + underground water flow for faster drainage. They also installed a new traffic signal + added ADA accessible ramps.
Sports
The 2026 World Baseball Classic is underway, with Team USA set to play its first game today, against Brazil. Want to catch America’s pastime closer to home? See what ballpark promotions the Rays have lined up this season.
The Word
Swiftie. The term is officially in the dictionary, defined as “a fan of the music of Taylor Swift.” While Swift isn’t set to perform in Tampa Bay anytime soon, there are plenty of other upcoming concerts to look forward to in The Big Guava. (USA Today)
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Pro Tip
If you’re a Costco shopper, you’re probably familiar with the ever-popular $1.50 hot dog. But are you in on these other 10 lesser-known hacks all Costco shoppers should know about? Don’t miss the details on vacation deals, members-only movie tickets, and more.*
Even if you aren’t headed to see Tampa’s own Erin Andrews speak at the Bucs’ She Is Football weekend, you can still get in on the International Women’s Day action.
Head to AdventHealth Training Center Indoor Practice Facility on Sunday, March 8 for the Mezzo Market at She Is Football Market & Festival to shop with 165+ small businesses, Vendors, grab food, and groove to live tunes.
A really good retinol serum without the premium price tag. For under $25, it’s clinically proven to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, brighten skin, and boost elasticity.
Please enjoy this gem that caught my eye at the James earlier this week — which feels fitting with the recent expansion news. I stopped by for a scavenger hunt + to wander the Edward Curtis exhibit for free during World Wildlife Day.