JANUARY 28, 2017

THE WAIT IS ALMOST OVER.......

 

If  you are reading this early Sunday, you still have time to see the seasons best craft show.  The next scheduled St. Armands Circle show is not until June.  We were at the show yesterday, and OUTSTANDING describes it best.

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Next Sunday is devoted to parties and football.  BUT if you're into running, walking or just plain partying, the annual SARASOTA MUSIC HALF MILE MARATHON is for you.  The fun begins at The Van Wezel and concludes there with hot breakfast courtesy of this year's corporate sponsor, METRO DINER.  With a second location under construction, and a third on the way, Metro is gaining traction in our market.

Friend Randy Silagi writes..."In addition to raising money for local charities, the race promotes everything we find great about our city; healthy living , fun in the sun, family togetherness, musical diversity, and our wonderful neighborhoods.  Runners and walkers along the route will encounter everything from a Girl Scout Cookie aid to FREE beer, and oh yes, there will be 22 bands.  For those not up to the full 13.1miles, there is a shorter 10k event of 6.2 miles."  There is still time to register by clicking here. I am told there are very few participant tickets available.

Unlike other running events, this one draws a big crowd of viewers.  So head downtown next Sunday morning and enjoy a Super event for the big one later in the day.

People are raving about the new PLAYERS stage version of one of our classic all-time movies, Singin' In The Rain.  Drove by on Wednesday night and their parking lot was full.  Deservedly so, as Jay Handelman wrote in his Herald review....."Dancing is the star as choreographer Brian Finnerty has created some energetic, fast-paced  tap routines.  

Couldn't resist the original!!1

 Musical support comes from a pre-recorded orchestral sound track, which does detract from the performance. "  However, Jay goes on..."still there's no denying the joyous affection that has been put into every movement and step of this lively production.  Playing through next weekend call 941-365-2494 or click here to purchase tickets and see remaining schedule.


A recently opened restaurant,  7219 South on the trail is getting lots of good vibes lately.  Good friend, Marlene Meyer went to NAPULE, and writes.."word is out.  Very crowded for an excellent addition to our growing list of restaurants.  Everyone loved their meal.  We shared a pizza with creative crust fresh from their wood burning oven.  Adding to atmosphere, an ancient black/white Italian movie plays on huge screen.  Service was exceptional.  Call 941-566-9639 for necessary reservation."

Many of you have been CLAMORING for a SOL update.  Unfortunately it is not a happy one.  After a few unsuccessful attempts at a deli, Sol took up residence in Gulf Gate and produced a delicious cheesecake.  Many restaurants, including The ROSEMARY,  added it to their dessert menu to rave reviews.  Mark Freed advises, the cheesecake is no longer.  If any of you know of Sol's whereabouts please advise.

On a happier note, FST  debuted its second show of the season, Heisenberg.  Critics have been enthusiastic calling this a 'must see", "well directed", and touching.  Written by Simon Stephens who brought us Tony winning "The Curious Incident..", it takes place in a London train station, bringing two strangers together in an unusual way.  Tickets this show, as well as Cabaret can be purchased by clicking here.


JIM'S RANT......I may be in the minority on this one, but I feel the Sarasota Herald Tribune has become a much better read in the past few months.  Better local reporting, improved sports coverage, and more information on local attractions.  Maybe they knew about last week's WSJ extremely psoitive article on Sarasota,  and decided to upgrade.  Whatever, it still takes less than a cup of coffee to read the four sections........

Until next week, make this week a great one........JIM