Mitch Perry
It’s an age-old tradition, and Bob Buckhorn and Rahm Emanuel are following suit.
The respective mayors of Tampa and Chicago are betting on the results of the Stanley Cup, the National Hockey League championship. The series faces off Wednesday evening between the Chicago Blackhawks and Tampa Bay Lightning in Tampa’s Amalie Arena.
Buckhorn is putting a case of Cigar City Invasion Pale Ale as well as 122 (mini) Cuban sandwiches and the Original “1905” Salad from the Columbia Restaurant against Chicago’s 122 slices of Eli’s cheesecake, a case of craft beer from Slap Shot Brewing, a mustard-fried catfish and peach cobbler from BJ’s Market and Giordano’s best deep-dish.
“Tampa is electrified with excitement for our Tampa Bay Lightning. All season long, the team has made us proud, and they have what it takes to bring the Stanley Cup back to Tampa Bay,” Buckhorn said in a prepared statement. “I’ve offered up to send some of Tampa’s best beer and best food to Mayor Emanuel should the Lightning not prevail, but candidly, my staff is already looking forward to enjoying Chicago pizza and cheesecake.”
In addition to the food and drink, the two Democrats have agreed to also make a contribution to an organization of the winning mayor’s choice. Mayor Emanuel has chosen Becoming A Man — BAM — an organization for at-risk young men in grades 7 through 12. Mayor Buckhorn as selected the Boys and Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay.
