MAY 26, 2019

MEMORIAL DAY MAY 27, 2019.........................................
REMEMBERING THOSE WHO SERVED TO PROTECT OUR COUNTRY

This extended holiday weekend of family and picnics, also gives you an extra night out to enjoy one of Sarasota's expanding list of restaurants or catch final performances of  The Wonder Years at FST Cabaret or the critically acclaimed Sweeney Todd at Asolo Repertory Theatre.  Whatever you're up to have a great weekend.

Howard and Steven Colbert Tuesday Night

If you're going to beach or pool and looking for a book, I suggest Howard Stern Comes Again.  A collection of some of his most memorable interviews; especially his 11 with Donald Trump!  When Stern went to satellite radio, with little or no restraints, he became the best interviewer on that medium.  If you are a Stern listener or not, you will enjoy this book.


At my urging, my Tuesday Romeo group had lunch at Wicked Cantina.  Located south on the Trail , it is easy to get to, and will be just as easy to avoid.  The food wasn't bad, but not great either.  For Mexican or lunch salad there are several restaurants I could recommend before this one.  On the plus side,  the service was good, portions ample, low noise volume, and accessible  parking adjacent to restaurant.  Next week we return  to Libbys.

Stephanie and Allen H went to Libbys a few weeks ago and write..."It's a beautiful restaurant and great service.  We love the bar, but get there early 4:30-5, as it was packed.  Ordered the brisket burger which was cooked the way we requested.  Served with fries and coleslaw.  Drinks were very good.."  Hope I agree next week as my ROMEO group make a return visit to Libby's in their totally reconstructed restaurant.

It's not too late to purchase great seats to next month's Sarasota Music Festival.  Running June 1-22, classical musicians from around the world converge on Sarasota for three weeks of master classes and breathtaking performances.  Two locations, Holley Hall and Opera House.  Tickets are reasonably priced and can be purchased by calling 941-953-3434 or SarasotaOrchestra.org/festival, where you will also find a full schedule of concerts and events.

I read this morning that consideration of Payne Park as a home for Sarasota Orchestra is dead.  Too many objections from those living in and near using the Park to overcome, and  so another viable location is gone.  Many years ago, Benderson at UTC offered land for a home along with a substantial  cash donation, only to be turned down.

Hard to envision our wonderful Orchestra continuing to grow at its current Holley Hall location.   Eventually a move will have to come as new construction at the Quay will make a move mandatory.

As Selby Gardens continues along their path of expansion,  homes within the vicinity of Selby have posters posted opposing the plans.  The roof-top restaurant with Michael's On East sounds like it should be a good addition to our dining options.


This weekend marks the beginning of summer movie releases with Aladdin the first of what promises to be an active season.  I am really looking forward to next week when Rocketman opens in several theatres throughout Sarasota.  

A biopic of Sir Elton John, Rocketman earned rave reviews in Cannes at the recent Cannes Film Festival,  and generated enthusiastic reviews after last weekend's sold out preview showings.  Whether it achieves the popularity of last winter's Bohemian Rhapsody remains to be seen.  

Only a few more days until SAVOR SARASOTA begins all across Sarasota County.

Many of your favorite restaurants are participating offering 3 course lunch for $16 and $32 dinner.  Running for 2 weeks, though many restaurants extend way beyond June.  For a list of restaurants go to SavorSarasota.com  or watch for their ad in this weekend's paper.

This week's TICKET (available around Sarasota) feature article lists the best burgers in town; noticeably missing is Hyde Park.  Also, one of their feature articles is about a Southside Village restaurant reviewed here a few weeks ago.  Origin is holding a Craft Beer Festival June 2, and food critic Jimmy Gourts took a well-reviewed visit.   Sounds like a fun neighborhood event.













JIM'S RANT....The nonprofit SANCA which operates Nathan Benderson Park recently received approval of financing for next year.  Money well spent, as the Park and tourism surrounding it continues to grow.  Just this week the Park was chosen as sight of 2020 US Olympic Paralympic Team Trials for rowing.   Just one more example of why this venue needs budget approval for several years, not just one......Have a great holiday and I'll see you next week...JIM

Sarasota st Sunset