Chelsea Lounge vandalism prompts resignation
It sounds like the neighborhood around Chelsea Lounge in Tampa is getting a little rougher. Recent vandalism at the former Azalea Lounge has led to a popular karaoke jockey leaving the establishment after four tires were slashed on a truck and a trailer. She had been there for three years and the incident cost the her about $1,700. According to the KJ, security at the bar has declined and a throng of homeless men have set up camp just outside the bar. Several patrons have contacted Watermark, backing up the story, adding that they are hassled for money every time they enter or leave the bar. Attempts to reach Chelsea Nightclub about the incident were unsuccessful. It is unclear whether the establishment will reestablish security at the venue.
OMG! Mag publisher arrested
As this issue of Watermark was going to press we learned that OMG! Magazine publisher Scott Spar was arrested by the Tampa Police Department on July 30. While details weren’t immediately available, his arrest report states he was charged with third degree grand theft and depositing an item with the intent to defraud—both third degree felonies. He was released from custody nearly four hours later after posting $4,000 bond. Calls to the Tampa Police Department seeking details were not returned by press time.
Mishra heads north
Unitarian Universalist Church of St. Petersburg pastor Manish Mishra has left the building. The popular minister left the church in June to pursue a call to a larger congregation in Cherry Hill, N.J. According to the St. Petersburg Church, Mishra left Florida for two reasons—he wed his long time partner in New Jersey shortly after the state legalized gay marriage and the couple plan to adopt—something they cannot legally do in the State of Florida. UU St. Pete is now under the capable leadership of Jim Culver.
