JULY 6, 2014

IN JUST OVER THREE MONTHS UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER WILL OPEN ITS DOORS TO THE PUBLIC....

Much has been accomplished since some of you went north for the summer.  Here is a view of rendering and current construction...

There have been several articles recently heralding new arrivals.  Before you left Apple, Crate and Barrell, Lululemon, Pottery Barn, Willaims-Sanoma, Tiffany's , Kate Spade, Michael Kors, White House Black Market, Champs, Aldo filed for construction permits.  Added within the past few months BeBe, Telsa Motors, Johnston and Murphy, Tommy Bahama, Moleskin ,Swaroski , OnedadeMar, plus several more.  In addition, construction permits are ready to be filed forArmani, Gucci and Ferragamo.  And just announced a  beauty and cosmetics product sold in high-end department stores, Kiehl's. Space does not permit all the listings.  Rest assured there are stores for every shopper. 

There will be a wide variety of restaurants.  Starting with Seasons 52, Cheesecake Factory, Brio Tuscan Grille, Capitol Grille and Sophie's at Saks.  Just announced Yo Sushi an overseas sensation.  Your sushi comes on conveyor belt.  I have been to the one in London, and it is terrific.  Rise Pies, a casual pizza chain, will make UTC their first foray into Southwest Florida.  A Sweet Doctors for those of us who like to indulge in pies and cakes.  Add two Starbucks locations along with Stone Cold Creamery, Zinburger, Kona Grill, and Manderin Express for quick take-out Chinese, and every conceivable appetite will be fed.

Beyond the mall in a location still to be determined,  Bass Pro Shops will start construction soon on a 140,000 square foot store. The mega-store outdoor chain, which sells fishing, camping, hunting, boating and other gear will be one of many more coming to the out-parcels surrounding the mall and Shoppes at University Center.  Plans also call for a theatre complex with enough screens for 1700 patrons.

Panera Bread is finally under construction and should open  along with mall in October.   Panera will be sharing its  parcel with an AT@T store, Joseph Bank and a yet to be announced pizza restaurant from West Coast.  Keeping my fingers crossed for California Pizza Kitchen, but that is a long shot.  There will be at least three similar buildings across from UTC.  A Homewood Suites will soon be under construction as well.

If you still haven't purchased your tickets for "The Sneak Peak" on October 15, most charities have sold their allotment.  For $100 you get to be one of the first to spend money at UTC, enjoy food, wine and entertainment and receive a $20 gift card.  The $100 is fully deductible. 

Causing almost as much interest as the mall opening was the announcement of Home Goods replacing a store at Cooper Creek Shopping Center.  They are not closing the Bee Ridge store; only expanding to University area.  As if we needed more traffic.  More about that in my rant this week.

Saw Clint Eastwood's movie Jersey Boys.  Though not receiving great reviews from either the NY Times or Wall St. Journal, it is nevertheless a revealing history of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons.  As always, his portrayal of the era and cast performances are excellent.  And the music is similar to the Broadway show only presented in an entirely different light.

If you see the movie, by all means see the show when it is at the Van Wezel March 11-15, 2015 for eight performances.  In addition, there are several other Broadway shows scheduled along with many entertainers.  If you want up to date information and a chance to buy tickets I suggest you get on their email list.  It's simple. Click here and an email prompt will pop up. Complete the process and you're in.

SARASOTA'S Super Boat Grand Prix Boat Race is today(Sunday)  at Lido Beach(between New Pass and Big Pass) 2 heats at 11:00 And 2.  This is the last event of a wonderful JULY 4TH weekend.

Recent news of Eat Here closing their downtown location on Main St. was a surprise. But in an email to clients from Sean Murphy, he admits location was too big for type of restaurant he was developing and will concentrate on his Anna Maria and Siesta Key locations.  His lease is being turned over to World of Beer who continues to enjoy great success in its University location.  There will be a lite menu as well.  With McCurdy's revitalizing the neighborhood, a Ker's Wing House location across the street as well as Hollywood 20, this could become a hot spot for the younger SARASOTA crowd.

Finally, the ROMEO'S continue their weekly luncheon adventures around SARASOTA.  They recently ventured to Libby's on Osprey and came away impressed with quality of food, service and reasonable pricing.  In addition, though I disagree, they have named Libby's french fries the market's best.  As the ROMEO'S travel around the country I will keep you up to date about their progress.

 JIM'S RANT...Why has it taken FDOT this long to address the growing congestion on University and 75?  The impact of UTC will be felt in October only multiplying the increasing traffic from a developing Lakewood Ranch community that continues to expand without much of an east-west alternative other than I70, and no outlet south of University . At 5 pm traffic going west on University from the Ranch onto the expressway can be backed up for miles...

Tracy has done her usual fine job of editing this edition.  Until 7/20....JIM

DECEMBER 15, 2013

Where else, but in SARASOTA, will you be able to visit downtown and find pianos on several street corners?  The City Commissioners this past week approved a pilot program to place up to six pianos on public sidewalks during the day.  Downtown businesses will sponsor and store them at night, and local artists will decorate the Spinet pianos with the public encouraged to play.  Current plans call for at least four in place before the end of the holiday season. There will be an opening night celebration.  Keep checking your blog for date.

While Downtown, I encourage you to visit the new restaurant ROAST.  Located on the corner of 1st and Pineapple adjacent to the Opera House, it has dining rooms on two floors with beautiful courtyard dining when the weather cooperates. 

An eclectic menu offers  burgers, fish, steaks, along with small plates and sides of fries, vegetables, deviled eggs, tuna tartar and more. Complimentary Valet parking is available across the street.  Open as well for lunch and Sunday brunch call 941-953-1971 or click here for view of menu and more information.

I am embarrassed to admit I had never eaten at SOUTHSIDE DELI until last Friday.  Boy,  what I've been missing! They have one of the most expansive menus this side of Naples, and ALL good, or at least what we ate.  Located on Hillview St. in an area of SARASOTA housing among others Hillview Grill, Pacific Rim, Sam Snead's and Morton's, it is easy to overlook, but not anymore.

The sandwiches can be halved, soups come in all sizes and everything is served HOT and quick.  And of course there are several salads on the menu. To complete the experience they offer homemade desserts, sixteen flavors of homemade gelato or soft serve ice cream. Open Mon-Fri until 8, Saturday until 6.  Closed on Sunday.  Breakfast is also served daily.

I recently wrote about Madison Cafe and Deli opening for dinner with a deli menu featuring brisket, stuffed cabbage and more. That is still being considered; however their policy for the next few weeks is to open for dinner with reservations only.    So, if are interested in REAL deli call SOL at  942-388-3354 and he won't disappoint.

This week, we had dinner at COLUMBIA, where the Cuban Black Bean soup and 1905 salad were as good as ever.  Sometimes taken for granted due to longevity,  you can never go wrong here especially on a warm SARASOTA evening where sitting outdoors was preferable to eating inside.

all faiths food bank sponsored a luncheon at Temple Emanu-El honoring its more than 3000 volunteers.  Quite a number for any organization, especially one in SARASOTA.  Executive Director Sandra Frank gave out several awards while Rabbi Brenner Glickman, who not only is Emanu-El's Rabbi, but works tirelessly with all faiths gave a welcoming and invocation to the group.

Catered by Paul Mattison, who is also on the board, it was a tasty lunch and showed the appreciation the food bank has for its volunteers.  The picture above is of Temple volunteers who attended the luncheon including Rabbi Elaine Glickman, Rabbi Brenner Glickman's wife and an Executive Board Member with all faiths.    If you are looking for a volunteer opportunity please call Fran Talley, volunteer coordinator at 941-375-1107 after 1/1/14!

SARASOTA'S ascendancy from small sleepy Florida city to a thriving metropolis has never been more evident than in our recent awarding of :  World Rowing Championships  at Benderson Park in 2017;  NCAA 2018 Rowing Championships,  the 2014 and 2015 YMCA National Masters Swimming championships and now selected to host Pentathlon events starting next year and leading up to OLYMPIC trials in 2017.

The Pentathlon is the oldest OLYMPIC competition consisting of fencing, swimming, equestrian show jumping, running and shooting.  Most of the events will be held at Benderson Park.

From time to time I am fortunate to meet and use the services of several or more of SARASOTA'S skilled practitioners   One such person is DOREEN CLYNE who is a licenced  therapeutic massage therapist.   Doreen  provides private in-home services.  She specializes in Deep Tissue and Swedish Relaxation.  She also offers Sports Therapy, Reiki and Hot Stone Therapy among others.

Doreen has an MBA in Health care Administration and most recently moved here from Maui, Hawaii where she served as massage therapist at the Ritz Carlton, Kapalua.  She was on an advance team helping establish the SARASOTA Ritz Carlton spa. She recently left the Ritz to form her own massage therapy business which is divided among private clients and offices of several medical professionals, complimenting their practices with specific massage therapy.

Services start at $80 for one hour, $100 for 90 minutes and $140 for two hours.  If you mention Jim Knows Sarasota you will receive a %10 discount for your first appointment.  Call 941-487-0134 and schedule one now!!!

JIM'S RANT.....Our paper must be pleased with itself for featuring their 'GRIDLOCK" article on last Sunday's front page.  We've been here 11 years and traffic on University has increased every year, but not to the extent implied in the article.  We will wait and see what happens when UTC opens before passing any more traffic judgement.  AND, if you live this way, by now you know the
short-cuts to avoid any "gridlock" on University or I75.....

As usual, Tracy did her great job of editing.  I leave you this week with a picture of the Great Bobby Hull whom I spent time with on Thanksgiving.  He is wearing the Stanley Cup ring from 1961 and the commemorative 50 year anniversary  ring from 2011.  I am wearing this year's Ring...won by his and my CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS......JIM

The cup is a small replica of the 1961 Championship Cup.

 

 

DECEMBER 8, 2013

Saturday, December 13 marks the 28th annual SARASOTA Christmas Boat Parade.  It starts at 6:30pm, with best viewing along Bay Shore drive. Several boats will be decorated with lights, trees and even Santa will be parading along the bay during this yearly holiday tradition.  Arrive early and eat at one of the many downtown restaurants.  For more information and good viewing suggestions click here.

Celebrating it's 10th anniversary, THE PERLMAN MUSIC PROGRAM/SUNCOAST, will be offering free rehearsal tickets at its winter residency Monday, December 9 through Wednesday December 11, at the Rotunda, USF Sarasota-Manatee 8350 N. Tamiami Tr 10am-2pm.  On Tuesday tickets will also be available at Pritchard Pianos-Venice 1855 S. Tamiami Tr.  $5 E tickets are also available on line for guaranteed up-front seating. Recital and Rehearsal performances begin on Monday December 23. The last performance will be Jan 4 with a final concert  at  Sarasota Opera House For a complete schedule of rehearsals, how to contribute and to purchase E tickets click here.

CIRCUS SARASOTA is offering two special productions to celebrate the season.  A new show CIRQUE DES VOIX  has performances  beginning Friday December 13-Sunday the 15th.  It will be performed under the big top at Tuttle and 12th.  This show is spectacular combining circus arts with the 100 voice Key Chorale.   Also returning is SAILOR CIRCUS holiday spectacular "It's a Wonderful Life" at their arena at 2075 Bahia Vista St. For a complete schedule and to purchase tickets in advance click here.

UTC update.....Had lunch at CHEESECAKE FACTORY/
International Mall in Tampa last week.  We have been going to this restaurant since discovering it in Silver Spring MD. several years ago, and am happy to report it just keeps getting better with age.  Their Cobb salad compares quite favorably with the one I always eat at SAM SNEAD'S.  The menu has been downsized, but not the portions. Also learned NORDSTROM is putting its money and energy into a New York location opening next year.  The fourth anchor pad  is still available for them, but if NORDSTROM does come this way it won't be in time for the Mall opening.

If you are hungry after reading the above, I am pleased to report the opening of DEMETRIO'S on University and Lockwood Ridge.  Literally impossible to drive into other than Lockwood ridge going South,  the place was packed with people waiting inside and out.   The menu is extensive as well as  inexpensive with portions that come in several sizes.  Tried the meat Lasagna and Sausage Sub.  The Lasagna comes with salad.  For a casual Italian or Greek meal try  DEMETRIOS;  just be prepared to wait.

AT LONG LAST.......The Fall/Winter movie releases are rolling out and there are three I can easily recommend.  I have not seen  12 Years A Slave, All Is Lost ,The Hunger Games: Catching Fire or Inside Llewyn Davis.  I did previously recommend Academy Award possible  Best Documentary,  ARMSTRONG LIE now exclusively at Hollywood 20 and MANDELA which will be here CHRISTMAS DAY ; now more than ever compelling with his passing on Thursday.  If you are not fatigued of the television coverage  of his life, death and funeral, you will find this a fascinating biography of one of the world's most influential people of all time.  I did see the following...........

DALLAS BUYERS CLUB starring Matthew McConaughey in his second Academy worthy performance this year (the other being Mud) is a true story of one mans fight for drugs against the FDA to help him battle HIV in the early days of the AIDS epidemic, and is gripping from start to finish.  Jared Leto also gives an Academy worthy performance portraying a transvestite so believable I thought him a woman until he revealed his real self.

 

THE BOOK THIEF , based on the hit novel of same name gives you a feel of what life was like in Nazi Germany as a couple hides a young Jewish girl who has a great fascination for books.  Geoffrey Rush and Emily Watson are suburb as the parents and newcomer Sophie Nelisse will steal your hearts with her performance.  This one is playing at Lakewood Ranch Cinemas.

Judy Dench gives a gut-wrenching performance as a woman who searches for a son she was forced to give up as a teenager in PHILOMENA, playing at Lakewood Ranch Cinemas as well as  Burns Court. Her performance is Academy Award caliber, but after seeing Meryl Streep in AUGUST: OSAGE COUNTY, Streep is the one to beat next February.

THANKSGIVING with the MILES family.  A most enjoyable afternoon and evening with George, Janet, Tammy, Taylor and several of their family flown in from New Jersey, Pittsburgh, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina and University Park.  Three delightful Ringling College students were also invited and one is studying here all the way from Swaziland.  The warmth of the evening along with an unending parade of turkey, sides and desserts made this one of my more memorable Thanksgivings.

 

Looking for something different to do over the holidays in of all places SARASOTA?  The OR1OLES are turning Ed Smith Stadium into an ice rink with "ICE ON THE DIAMOND" a dazzling holiday themed show on a specially engineered ice stage on the ballpark's main field on Friday Dec. 20 at 7pm.  Tickets are on sale now at the stadium box office daily 10-4 and 10-2 on Saturday.  

While at the craft show this weekend, we saw local artist Su Griggs who invited us and all of you to an open house Saturday, December 14 1-6pm at her home 1750 Loma Lind St. SARASOTA, 34239.  You can RSVP 941-586-7972.  Art will be on display for sale along with refreshments for good cheer. 

JIM'S RANT.....Wonder why more and more of us use the DVR to record regular television programming?  Just count the commercials on any given break.  You can watch a 60 minute program in under 45...Oh for the good old days of real FCC control......saw The Sound Of Music,and though it garnered big ratings, it seemed dated and was slammed by most critics as being stiff and out of touch......

Have fun shopping this week.  I saw an interesting feature  comparing Black Friday prices to earlier ones in August....THE SAME!!!!  Buyer beware!!!

As usual, Tracy did a fine editing job........Until next week....JIM

If you did not attend Farmer's Market last weekend you missed a great opportunity.

DECEMBER 1, 2013

It has started and will not stop until midnight 12/24.......the CHRISTMAS shopping season began in earnest last week.  Stores opened early and closed late as Thanksgiving gave way to profits for retailers.  The best buys are yet to come.  These next few weeks you will need a cart to carry your paper from the driveway to the kitchen.  So many inserts....have fun!!!!


With all your driving from store to store you MUST drive east on University and view the magnificent Benderson light displays on both sides of the road and inside all of their shopping malls.  I've lived in Chicago and Baltimore among other cities and have never seen anything like this!!!  Can't wait until 2014 when UTC opens and their CHRISTMAS decorations are up and running. 

There are several new dining opportunities along University.  I've written about some in the past few months:  Appolonia, Rev.el.ry, Infuzions, JPAN, Pei Wei,  Michelangelo's as well as old standbys Stonewood, Lucky Pelican and John dough. And now Demetrios is open  on University and Lockwood Ridge in the former Friendly location.  And don't forget Outback, Carrabba's, Carmel Cafe..........

Next weekend is the annual SARASOTA Craft Show Robarts Arena December 6-8 beginning from 10am til 6pm Friday and Saturday and until 4pm Sunday.   More than 115 Juried Artists will be displaying and selling everything from fine jewelery to baskets, painting, clothing, baskets, throw rugs and ceramics.  Admission is $9 adults and $8 seniors.  A weekend pass is available for $12.  You can purchase discount tickets on line by clicking here.

Also next Saturday, 12/7 from 11 am-8pm, you can enjoy the second annual BRADENTON Blues Festival.  This OUTDOOR event takes place along Bradenton's Riverwalk with performances throughout the day by Shemekia Copeland, Johnny Rawls, Eddie Shaw & The Wolfgang and many more.  Of course there will be food, drink, and many spectacular art vendors. For directions and information on artist appearance time click here.

It has been too long between trips to TOASTED MANGO,  but this past week I was treated to a wonderful birthday brunch at this unpretentious restaurant located on 430 N. Tamiami Trail 941-388-7728.  Prices are reasonable and the omelets divine.  They also bake their own biscuits and offer sides of fruit, potatoes or tomatoes are for one ridiculously low price.  Toasted Mango has added additional outside seating, but be prepared to wait most days as this cafe has become one of Sarasota's most popular spot for breakfast.  They also have a wide variety of lunch choices and are open daily 7am to 3pm.

iTN SARASOTA, an independent Transportation Network of volunteers giving rides to seniors who can no longer drive is celebrating its volunteers as are  most organizations this month with a luncheon at Plymouth Harbor on Thursday, 12/5.  If you are interested in volunteering a few hours a week with iTN  then click here to learn how you can get involved.  Hats off to all faiths food bank as well as all the other organizations honoring volunteers this week.  SARASOTA depends on its many volunteers to provide you with services beyond the normal.  Ushers at Symphony, Van Wezel, Opera House......ALL volunteers...public library...Mote Marine...you get the idea.  Thanks to each and every one of you who make living in SARASOTA so great!!!!

At the beginning of the fall television season I recommended American Horror Story, a show that has been a favorite of mine since its debut in 2011.  I am sure most of you don't watch due to its bizarre story and violence as well as horror; however, it has become the all-time watched show on FX and is 75% ahead in audience from last season.

Taped in New Orleans,  Coven, this year's theme about witches, both young and old, features an all-star cast including Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett, Gabourey Sidlbe (star of Precious), Emma Roberts and Frances Conroy and many more.  It is a hoot to watch and if you are looking for something fresh on TV during the holiday re-run season go to On Demand and check this one out.  Even my violence shy wife is watching and enjoying.

NBC is offering a live stage version of The Sound of Music, Thursday 8-11 as well as their annual Christmas in Rockefeller Center at 8 the night before.

The other night I went to my first SARASOTA ballet.  It was  brilliant, exciting and colorful.  With wonderful upfront seats provided by a friend we were able to see this first class company perform three sequences by Balanchine and Ashton.  I especially enjoyed the last as the corps danced to music of George Gershwin.  While this performance was at the Opera House, the next will be Circus NUTCRACKER December 20-21 at Van Wezel.   A perfect holiday treat or gift. For more information and ticket purchase click here.


Young Israeli pianist David Greilasmmer will be playing Mozart's Piano Concerto No.17 as well as conducting the SARASOTA Orchestra's second Masterworks series...SETTING NEW COURSES...this weekend, 12/6-12/8.  David is music director of the Geneva Chamber Orchestra and according to the New York Times..."has it in him to challenge, inform and delight audiences...the playing is exquisite.."Click here now to purchase tickets for Masterworks or any of the other remaining series.

JIM'S RANT....the holiday season should bring out the best in people, but as I witnessed this weekend, not really.  No one obeys the stop signs at major shopping centers, and no one stopped the gentleman I witnessed Saturday sampling soup at Whole Foods in his own cup.  He finally walked away..probably onto his next tasting.

Thanks to all of you who read and respond to some of my suggestions.  Just this week, two friends called to rave about INFUZIONS after their "wonderful" meals on Friday and  Sunday.  They read it here first!!!  Now is the time to go before word of mouth makes them one of our more popular restaurants.  Call942-359-3658 for reservations.   As always, a big hug to Tracy for making me look good.....Until next week.....JIM

Sights of the season at Benderson Shopping Center








 

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24, 2013

One of Norman Rockwell's most famous paintings helped spur a bond effort for the Second World War in the amount of $132 Million.  Can you imagine what  that number would be  in 2013?  As you celebrate Thanksgiving this Thursday give thanks for all your blessings.  As bad as things look at times,  we are in a far better place in the good old USA.

With Thanksgiving and the first day of Hanukkah falling on the same day,  it's only fitting I bring you this YouTube video provided by Editor Tracy.  Click here to, watch, and enjoy! Remember to light your first Hanukkah candle on Wednesday evening.

New owners have turned MADISON AVENUE Cafe & Deli into one of the better casual eateries on St. Armands Circle.  Located next door to Chase Bank with indoor and outside seating they make a strong alternative to Starbucks or Blue Dolphin for a quick breakfast served with some of the best coffee this side of Starbucks.

Lunch is also available, and dinner Tuesday-Saturday will feature some of the best delicatessen this side of Too Jays.  You can enjoy matzo ball soup, brisket, corned beef, half roasted chicken, stuffed cabbage, potato latkes and more.  Also serving beer and wine.  Dinner reservations are a must at either 388-3354 or Chef Sol at 893-7599.

There are so many worthwhile events on a daily basis, it is impossible to attend them all.  A few weeks ago, we were among the sold-out AJC 2013 Civic Achievement Award Dinner honoring Teri A. Hansen, President/CEO of Gulf Coast Community Foundation.  Teri has served in her current position since 2002, and through her leadership and outstanding staff, Gulf Coast recently surpassed $160 million in grants invested in the community.

Current AJC Regional President, Anne Varig  has followed in the tradition established by long time companion, Nate Benderson, in leading an organization that promulgates their core values of equality and religious freedom, civil rights and women's issues regardless of race or religion.  She is capably assisted by Executive Director, Brian Lipton. 

This year marks the 40th anniversary of First SARASOTA Singing Christmas Tree.  If you have never seen this performance you will be swept away by the singing and staging on the largest church stage in Sarasota.  Performed by volunteer members, they will delight and entertain for 90 minutes.  Beginning Friday December 6, there are only 9 performances through December 15.  You can buy tickets in person 1670 Main St., call 1-888-684-5272 or click here to purchase tickets on line.

While shopping this weekend and working up an appetite for something different, I strongly recommend InfuZions in the Parkway Shopping Center on Lockwood Ridge and University Parkway.  Combining the best of Thai and Vietnamese cuisine , this is fusion dining at its best.  Located in the former location of a so-so Chinese restaurant in a shopping center that needs a kick start after the loss of Sweet Bay a few years ago, InfuZions  is the creation of Thailand/Gulf Gate owners as well as a few former Pho Cali employees.  Currently serving from a menu offering vegan, gluten-free and food allergies alternatives, it will soon be growing its own organic vegetables that will compliment the fresh organic produce already being purchased on the open market.

If you are a fan of Pho Cali or Lehan you will not be disappointed with the variety or flavors.  I found the food better, fresher and more favorable than either  restaurant.  Also featured at the bar are Bubble "Boba" Tea drinks.   Open for lunch and dinner daily,  they are already doing a brisk business thanks to word of mouth.  In fact, neighbor Malcolm Stearn gave me the heads up on InfuZions.  For reservations call  941-359-3658.

Next door to Infuzions  is the shuttered Sweet Bay.  A building permit has been posted, and though the posting does not indicate the business, I can state with good authority, a MOVIE THEATRE will be the tenant.  Whether it be reincarnation of Parkway Cinemas or a first run Cinema their opening will go a long way to reviving the shopping center.  At the very least, it will mean increased business for all current shopping center merchants. 

George Miles writes "We saw PURLIE yesterday at WBTT "Was the best show I have seen at West Coast....don't miss it..." PURLIE has showtimes scheduled Tuesday - Sunday until December 15.  For tickets click here or call 941-3676-1505.  Playing Captain Cotchippe is David Abolafia, a local talent, who is also doing a comedy turn at McCurdy's Comedy Club Sunday December l at 7pm. 

JIM'S RANT....in past years, I  have looked forward to black Friday and going out among the crazies just to be there!!!  So much fun, goodwill and excitement....NO MORE....black Friday has reinvented itself to Thursday..stores opening early on Thanksgiving to take advantage of eager Xmas shoppers....most of us know the best buys are at the last minute anyway..The shops at Ellenton are having midnight madness as usual, but even there many of the stores are opening early......
As always, thank you to Tracy,and especially this week for her timely and funny YouTube video. And those of you who are thinking about SHOW BOAT better get tickets NOW!! It is selling fast!!!!

Scene from this year's Chalk Festival. 
Especially timely on 150th anniversary of
Gettysburg Address