The Avenue

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Netflix-binge drinking game: Scandal

Today, on the eve of my 21st birthday, I am honored to present the ultimate drinking game to complement your three-seasons-long, binge-watching marathon of “Scandal,” available for your convenience on Netflix. Each swig will accompany you through every incredibly uncomfortable, sexual-tension-ridden scene with Olivia and Fitz and every Pope family interaction that makes your own family seem that much more normal. Whether you’re a high-powered D.C. senator with a few skeletons in your closet or an agent in the super-secret B-613 agency, this drinking game has the potential to create a PR crisis that would even challenge Olivia Pope. For extra authenticity, make your drink a tall glass of fine red wine. And if you find yourself quickly catching up to the latest episode, don’t worry: “Scandal” will be back on ABC on Jan. 29.

A breakdown of J. Cole’s latest album: 2014 Forest Hills Drive

As 2014 came to a close, J. Cole released his third studio album, “2014 Forest Hills Drive.” It’s titled after his childhood home in Fayetteville, North Carolina, which seems appropriate as much of the music deals with J. Cole going through various stages of his life. 

Lucky's Market and the evolution of the supermarket industry

The recent opening of Lucky’s Market sparked a flurry of excitement. People are buzzing about the amazingly low prices and exceptional, fresh, locally grown produce. Functioning as a central source of goods, Lucky’s provides customers a place to purchase food and socialize. Small, specialized “superettes” like The Fresh Market, known for its European-style experience, and Trader Joe’s, known for its Hawaiian T-shirt-clad crew and brand-name packaging of hard-to-find goods, thrive alongside larger supermarkets like Publix. Ward’s Supermarket has a niche as well, as it is the only locally owned grocery store in Gainesville.

Former marine’s photography on display at Gainesville Church art exhibit

While serving the country when he was in the Marines, Evan Strouse took photos of his surroundings, and the Gainesville community took notice.

The Hippodrome to host first 2015 Cocktails & Classics event

Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis and Jack Lemmon will take the screen Saturday as the Hippodrome State Theatre presents “Some Like It Hot,” its first Cocktails & Classics film of 2015.

Glorious heap of rock: Q&A with Kyle Thomas, aka King Tuff

You may or may not have heard about King Tuff, but you knew someone like him once. He was the guy perpetually in and out of rock bands in high school, the guy in the faded Black Sabbath T-shirt reading a Richard Brautigan novel and the white guy who worshipped Jimi Hendrix. He was the guy you suspected might actually make it.

Brad Schultz: kindergarten teacher in Ocala, fashion designer in Gainesville

Each day, Brad Schultz seamlessly transitions from a kindergarten teacher in Ocala to a local fashion designer in Gainesville, and he manages to keep both jobs separate.

Netflix-binge drinking game: Gilmore Girls

Whether you’re an original fan or a lazy bones who waited until the show hit Netflix to binge indulge (raises hand), pop culture’s most iconic mother-daughter duo holds a special place in many people’s hearts. First-timers to the show may be confused by the rapid-fire dialogue, the obscure, outdated pop-culture references and the ever-perplexing but indefinitely entertaining relationship between Lorelai and Rory. And, oh, the ‘90s fashion.

Beatles fan has ‘every little thing’

Heartbreak stories tonight at The Bull downtown

Hearts will break at The Bull tonight.

What's up this week

Thursday

Trophy Hunting: Golden Globes Awards

A little glitz, a bit of glam and a whole lot of celeb power — the 72nd Annual Golden Globe Awards showed off the year’s best film and television actors, actresses and artists with its usual elegance and excitement.

Indie-pop giant of Montreal talks new record, Gainesville appearance

If you’re dying for a taste of what’s to come on of Montreal’s next album, Aureate Gloom (dropping March 3 on Polyvinyl Records), here are some hints: It involves Talking-Heads-inspired funk, traces of pain and identity-searching following frontman Kevin Barnes’ separation from his wife in 2013 and a little bit of 1970s New York City.

Gainesville High School teacher helps families in need

If you ask Louise Yariv how long she and her husband have been donating items to families in need, she’ll chuckle and won’t give you a straight answer.

Netflix binge drinking game: Friends

So no one told you life would bring you “Friends” on the silver platter that is Netflix. All 238 episodes of the decade-old sitcom came with the New Year, and it even has Central Perk frequent visitors reliving the highlights: the will-they-won’t-they Ross and Rachel; the fan-favorite, sarcastic Chandler; and, oh my God, don’t forget Janice. For those of you unconvinced to watch it again, might I remind you that you don’t have to wait for reruns or get up after every sixth episode to change the DVD in the box set. Whether you’re reliving the ‘90s for the umpteenth time or experiencing it for the first time, here’s a drinking game to take you from opening song to ending credits.

Men's cooking more about leisure

The constant presence of the male chef on food-related TV shows and the rising number of books, magazines and blogs about men’s cooking seems to indicate a growing enthusiasm for cooking among men. Indeed, American men are spending about twice as much time in the kitchen compared to the 1960s.

'The Interview' not worth hack, debate

In the turbulence surrounding Seth Rogen and James Franco’s “The Interview” emerged a stereotypical, well, Rogen-Franco movie full of frat-boy humor — not a movie worth intense political debate and hackings.

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Tonight

Trophy Hunting 2015: Golden Globes Preview

The holidays may be over, but the second-best time of the year is just beginning — and Trophy Hunting is back once again to cover it all! Awards season kicks off with the 72nd annual Golden Globes, which highlights the best of the year’s film and television. What makes this ceremony stand out is its dual focus on both mediums rather than just motion pictures, as well as the distinction of Drama and Musical/Comedy categories. Let’s review some of the most notable nominees and the major contenders leading the way. (Note: These picks are my own based on my research and personal viewing.)

British baebes bring medieval music

Students and Gainesville residents will have the opportunity to ring in the holiday season by hearing a unique take on Christmas classics.