MARCH 5, 2017

SARASOTA DOES IT AGAIN....BEST PLACE TO LIVE IN FLORIDA

According to  U.S. News & World Report , in  its 100 best places to live in the USA, Sarasota is ranked #21.  Tampa is a distant #35.   "Warm-temperatures year round, award-winning beaches and a thriving arts and cultural scene have made Sarasota a go-to-place for retirees and families, not to mention a handful of celebrities, " the report says.  But we already knew this!!!


When  Piano Men closes April 15 it  will end a very successful 20 week run;  a  record for a show at FST's Winter Cabaret.   Starring two very talented singing musicians Brian Walters and John Grecco who work their way through the music of Billy Joel,  Elton John, Fats Waller and Stevie Wonder among others.

Doesn't get much better than this!!

I saw this a few weeks ago and was so entertained, I am going back this week.  The songs are memorable from Piano Man to Your Song to Tiny Dancer.  All arrangements are new and nostalgic.  I challenge you to go through the evening without memories of your youth.

For ticket information call 941-366-9900 or order tickets from the comfort of your home by clicking here.

Westcoast Black Theatre continues their season with an instant classic, "Girl Groups:The 60's Explosion"  Obviously, just the opposite of above, but every bit as good.  I've heard this from some who attended an early performance.

In the early years of contemporary music, girls were mostly backup for men's groups.  Once in front of the microphone they morphed into the Supremes, Martha and the Vandellas and The Marvellets among others.

Next weekend welcomes the 46th Annual Creators & Collectors Tour.  Benefiting the Fine Arts Society of Sarasota;  this event brings together several  of the artists thriving in our community. Dates are March 10-11.

William-Kidd

This self-guided art studio tour provides experienced and novice art lovers with an insiders look at the six private work spaces of  some of Sarasota's top artists; each with their own expertise from art to craft to sculpture

After the studio tour,  visit with several artists at the Galleria on Ringling College of Art & Design Campus 2700 N. Tamiami Trail.  Both days the schedule is 10am-4pm.  For additional event information you can go to the site below.

  Click here to purchase advance tickets as well.  Tickets are also available at several of your favorite galleries around Sarasota. 


Academy  Awards Recap....I did have a smile on my face; then all hell broke loose.  So as you see from the graphic, it's egg I'm wearing  as I write this.  Saw the entire 10 hour telecast ( at least it felt that long) .  Thought Jimmy Kimmel was terrific as host; his  handling of the wrong envelope  was spontaneous and spot on.

The opening number set the tone for an upbeat evening ; the gowns were beautiful; the Awards predictable.  Moonlight was tough to watch, but in reflection, it was worthy of Best Picture.  At least La La has spurred a re-wind of the movie musical; and for that we call ALL be thankful.  

Marlene Meyer, along with a few other readers, has discovered a gem of a restaurant you would not normally frequent.   Located 4900 N. Tamiami Trail, Sunnyside Cafe is serving from a huge menu 7 days a week.  She writes..."13 of us went and each got something different from pancakes, eggs benedict, salads with fresh tuna, fish&chips, lox and bagels, and more!!! 

 Everyone loved it.   Went back the next day, and had a lamb burger; also delicious.  Cute atmosphere, breakfast all day, attentive-friendly staff, good prices."

Owners are Hungarian and specialize with  dinners on  Friday 5-9p.m.with Hungarian music, candles, and great food.  Reservations are a must.  Call 941-359-9500.  For a look at both menus click here.


Give it up for the Baltimore Orioles.  A recently released economic impact analysis commissioned by Sarasota County Government concludes close to $89 million is generated in the area by this organization.   This takes into account a wide range of advertising spread over seven Mid-Atlantic states along with management of youth sport tournaments and recreational programs at their complex.  

What with every game a sellout, in addition to other events around the ballpark, you would think an airline might show interest in a direct flight to and from Baltimore.

Maggie  Menderski had an interesting item  in Wednesday's paper.   Instacart, a  new online service that delivers  groceries from a variety of stores has launched in our area. Their roster includes  Publix Super Markets, Whole Foods Market, Costco, and ABC Fine Wine & Spirits. 

For much more information I suggest you click here. Once on their site, you can enroll for the service as well.

As an incentive to sign for the Instacart,  they are offering a year membership for $49.  In addition, there is a weekly program as well as a 14 day free trial period.  A wave of the future here now! 
 

JIM'S RANT....I've been stopped more than once at various venues with an old refrain..."Longboat  traffic  has never been worse.  More back-up than previous years.  More time to cross bridge."  After several years, I've stopped listening.  With more development on the way, I guess you'll have to put up with congestion. One solution, a water taxi shuttle from the north end of the island is not going to cut it.  




Until next week have a good one......JIM

FEBRUARY 26,2017

SIESTA BEACH #1 IN USA..........

NAMED #5 IN WORLD BY TRIP-ADVISOR

Ryan Gosling with Emma Stone

This year's Oscar story begins with a bold  prediction: Surprise!!!  LA LA LAND will be the clear winner by the end of the evening!   Creatively,  it was the best picture  I saw last year.  Many, if not most of you disagree.  However,  its originality, risk taking, music, directing, acting, tops them all.  And Hollywood loves to love itself.

Host Jimmy Kimmel

A sleeper is Hidden Figures, which came out late without much hype and did very well at box office.  It is a compelling tale of our early space program, with terrific acting from the entire cast.   Octavia Spencer deserved her  supporting actress nomination as did the other two leads;  but Viola Davis chose this category for her role in Fences.  She is a lock.

I predict Emma Stone will win for best actress, while her co-star Ryan Gosling will take a back seat to either Danzel Washington for his tour d force performance in Fences or Casey Affleck for his star making role in Manchester by the Sea.

The musical highlight of the evening is the opening number where all nine nominated films will be featured.  

 The five songs vying for  Best will be performed by an A list of entertainers  including  Lin Manuel Miranda performing his song from Moana, How Far Will I Go; Justin Timberlake's Can't Stop The Feeling from Trolls,; Sting's The Empty Chair from Jim: The James Foley Story, and John Legend singing City of Stars from La La Land.

I am going with City of Stars, from La La, but with two songs from film nominated, look for a possible upset here.  The fun begins tonight with Red Carpet at 7 on ABC.

See you next week with either a smile or egg on my face! 

You still have time, but not much, to sign up for the many courses offered by The Ringling College Lifelong Learning Academy beginning early March.  You can search their many broad course options for spring semester. by clicking here.  

One option is taught by friend and technology whiz, Gayle Yaverbaum.  Beginning March 7 and running 6 weeks : IPAD: Photo Books, and Videos. 

In this course you  learn how to enjoy your pictures and video clips;  learn editing techniques, as well as become more comfortable with the IPAD.  To enroll  call 941-309-5161.  Gayle tells me she is close to capacity, so do it today. Cost is a reasonable $75 plus discount for members.



Who isn't looking for a laugh these days?   Jay Handelman writes, the recently opened 1930 Gershwin classic Crazy For You at the Venice Theatre will provide many laughs and pleasant memories as well.  Filled with classic hits such as  Embraceable You, I Got Rhythm and Someone to Watch Over Me.  They don't write them like that anymore.  Running through  March 19   To order tickets call 941-488-1115.

 
Gayle's husband,  Harry is also a contributor this week.  He recently had dinner at Cas Antica, and gave me a review while we were walking a few Saturday's ago.

 Harry's group of six  were fortunate to find themselves in a private room away from the noise.  The entire restaurant is a former residence and reeks with ambiance and  on beautiful  days like we've been experiencing, outside dining is available in their enclosed garden area.

As for the food.  "It was tasty with much variety to choose from.  I had their scallops special, while others had sauteed veal scallopini with several sauce toppings.  Along with fresh vegetables and a variety of appetizers,  great service and an endless wine list;  this was more of a "dining" experience than your normal restaurant here.  Not every week, but we will definitely be back." 

Located 1213 N. Palm and within easy walking distance from FST.  Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner.  Call 941-366-1846 for reservations.


I've  heard nothing but rave reviews for the current season  of  Sarasota Orchestra POPS concerts.  Tickets still remain for next  weekend's Leading Ladies of Broadway.  Featuring three stars who have appeared on the great white way,  Susan Egan, Liz Calloway and Deede Mango.  Their credits include favorites Miss Saigon, Cats and Wicked. 

It promises to be a memorable evening, with music  from A Chorus Line, Evita, Funny Girl, Hamilton (sound familiar?), South Pacific and Wicked.    I don't know of a more relaxing way to spend an early spring evening or afternoon.
 
New this year are Saturday matinee performances at 2:30 pm.  Tickets for the two evening and matinee performance for as low as $38 are available by clicking here. 



JIM'S RANT.....Finished watching "The Good Fight" Sunday on CBS.  This follow-up to The Good Wife is excellent;  in  fact, I'll be taping it  this week.....WAIT....no longer available on CBS Network.  No, if I want to see future episodes they'll be on  their streaming CBS All Access at a cost....remember when television viewing was free and was limited to four choices...........

Thanks for reading...see you next week....JIM 


            

 

FEBRUARY 19, 2017

CELEBRATING PRESIDENTS DAY WEEKEND...SALE AFTER SALE...ENJOY

TICKETS ON SALE NOW FOR THE 8TH ANNUAL JEWISH FILM FESTIVAL MARCH 12-19, 2017

The Jewish Federation of Sarasota-Manatee, along with several major sponsors are bringing ELEVEN great films for this year's Festival.  And, all will be screened multiple times at Hollywood 20-giving you no excuses for missing any of them!!  Most have either received a nomination at another Festival or have actually won several awards.

For a complete schedule, including special events click here. You can also purchase advance tickets here as well.

Sol in his first Main St. location

Less than 2 months ago Sol's NYC Delicatessen,  for the second time short of  2 years,  closed its doors and promised to return in a new "secret" location.  The "secret" is out.  Sol is reopening this week inside the Il Pancifico restaurant at 6644 Gateway Ave in Gulf Gate. 

 Along with their variety of pizzas, calzones, signature sandwiches and pastries;  you now will be able to purchase Sol's reuben, pastrami,  corned beef sandwiches, and for dessert his cheese cake.   Almost like a mini eatery!!!  Sol states "the third time is the charm. " 

Nik Wallenda at Circus

Circus Sarasota was as good as advertised.  The finale featuring  Nik Wallenda along with members of his family was breathtaking to watch.  With the recent rehearsal accident fresh in everyone's mind, you could literally hear a pin drop as the family began its presentation.  Friend Randy called the experience "surreal".  I can't top that.  If you haven't purchased tickets do so now  by clicking this link. Performances extend though 3/5.


The year was 1987.  A new restaurant opened at 1212 East St.  THIRTY years later, Michael's On East has become one of a handful of  Sarasota "go-to" restaurants for lunch, dinner, parties or catering.  Their Wine Cellar has become an intimate destination for those parties.  Recently I was a  guest at birthday brunch in Cellar.  For a restaurant not known for breakfast, Michael's put on one heck of a spread.
 
The menu is elaborate with selections ranging from salads as simple as Caesar  to Michael's Famous chopped salad.  Most restaurants call a menu item  "famous"; but only Michael's can get away with it.  Be sure to save room for  one of their home-made desserts.   Open for lunch and dinner Monday-Saturday.  For reservations call 941-366-0007 or go to their web-site for lunch and dinner menus.

Our part of the state is  once again hosting several baseball teams for Spring Training.  The Baltimore Orioles, right here at Ed Smith Stadium 700 12th St.  Sarasota, Pittsburgh

Pirates in Bradenton,  Tampa Bay Rays in Port Charlotte and soon to join them Atlanta Braves in North Port.  

The Orioles are encouraging you to watch practice on their back fields through February 23.  Exhibition games begin Friday.   The first home game is a week from Sunday, when the Orioles host those Pirates .  The regular season kicks off April 2 with 3 games, including Cubs at Cardinals.  Seems like only yesterday I was celebrating a World Series victory.


                                                   THE COLOR OF DREAMS/Marc Chagall
 

Glass- House Conservatory

For the next six months,  Marie Selby Botanical Gardens is home to an exhibit worthy of any major city in this country.   Marc Chagall's little known connection to flowers and nature are on grand display here.

Your trip begins in a glass- house conservatory where you will wonder at replicas of Chagall's stained-glass windows.

Next, featured  in the Gallery,  Chagall's 1937 masterworks painting,  'The Lovers", on loan from the Israel Museum, Jerusalem, along  with two privately loaned, never before displayed paintings from late in his career.  Included in this exhibit are Chagall ceramic vases, archival photos, and outdoor scenes reminiscent of the French Rivera.  

Finally,  walk the grounds which have been enhanced with flora, evoking the south of France.

Jean and Alfred Goldstein Exhibition Series

The Marsh family went Monday and were still talking of their experience several days later.  They did tell me the Gardens were packed, so if  you are here for a short visit then by all means go before you leave.  If not, you have until July 31. Open Monday Presidents Day.


One of the area's biggest craft shows takes place this coming Saturday and Sunday February25-26.
The Siesta Key Craft Festival stretches from 5124 Ocean Drive for blocks of jewelry, arts, craft, food, entertainment and lots more.  Click here for list of vendors.

-







JIM'S RANT....After experiencing a sixth year of record-setting tourism, Florida's House of Representatives is considering legislation to shut down the agencies responsible for that growth.  This action would probably eliminate an untold number of jobs, while at the same time put the state at risk of tourist stagnation.  Their rationale are a few "questionable" contracts.  Ridiculous.......


Our beautiful weather continues this week..enjoy the sunshine...Until next week....JIM

Couldn't resist!!!

   

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 12,2017

WHAT AN UNFORGETTABLE SUPER BOWL


Amazing New England comeback, PLUS Lady Ga Ga's incredible performance at half time.  BUT who can forget Michael Jackson? And so many above average commercials.  Can't wait til next year.

I am old enough to remember the first game in Los Angeles Coliseum.  Wow, how fast time flies and how much this game and telecast has changed!!!


HAPPY BIRTHDAY ABE....BORN FEBRUARY 12, 1809....

Our 16th President 1861-1865

Kicking off an event filled week  CBS, broadcasts the  59th Annual Grammy Awards.  This year hosted by their  late-night star, and fresh off last year's Tony Awards,  James Corden.  Not enough  time in this music driven show for his Carpool Karakoe, but the man can sing and dance and LOVES music.  Among the performers will be Adele, Beyonce, John Legend, Alicia Keys, Carrie Underwood and many many more.


As Award Shows go, this is one of the best with the musical performances mixed in along with the envelope opening.  Plus, add a talent like Corden, who can break into song without any prodding, and you have an entertaining and unpredictable evening.  Show begins at 8 and is scheduled to end 11:30. 

Opening Monday and continuing through July at Marie Selby Botanical Gardens, Marc Chagall, Flowers, and the French Rivera: The Color of Dreams.  In part sponsored by Jewish Federation of Sarasota.  Much more next week.

Opening Friday at  Asolo Repertory is one of the great classics of the 20th century, Born Yesterday.  I know many of you remember the Broadway show and later movie starring the incomparable Judy Holliday.   Broderick Crawford was her junk dealer boyfriend , and William Holden played political reporter, Paul Verrall,  hired to educate Holliday's character, Billie Dawn.  The rest is history, as Billie learns more than she bargained for, and falls for the Holden character. 

Christiana DeCicco/ Christopher Kelly

Yesterday is the third, and last show of current season's Washington Trilogy.  Included in trio and continuing along with Yesterday, are  The Great Society and The Originalist.  To order tickets click here.

If I have to remind you that Tuesday is VALENTINES DAY, then you're in deep trouble.  If you're reading before Tuesday,  there is still  time for candy or flowers.  Most of the better restaurants are booked, but I'm sure one of our  plentiful supply of casual dining spots  is available. 


Here's a place not to go Tuesday,  but as a once or twice a year trip, it's pretty good and CHEAP.  Sorry Randy, but on a recent late movie night with most of the chain restaurants off University full to capacity, we went to Five Guys in Cooper Creek shopping center. 

The grease on burger and fries is overwhelming; however, when several  toppings are added to burger, it is quite a meal.  I admit, Steak N' Shake is classier, what with their table service, but Five Guys is a good alternative when you don't want to drive a long distance late in the evening.

Still another new restaurant has popped up along the University corridor.   SPACCO opened last month in the home of shuttered Filipo's 6329 N. Lockwood Ridge Rd.  If you're not familiar with address, they are near Outback and north of two buck movies.  

Marlene Meyer, who eats out almost as much as we do, writes..."Went to Spacco tonight.  Opened a week.  Back up in kitchen so had to wait a long time for food.  It was good, but wouldn't rush back.  CPK is much better."

Two points.  Owners of Spacco have a successful operation in St. Pete; Grazzi.  Plus Florida ownership!  Drove by today, and interior looks modern and casual.  I'll give them a few weeks to get their act together before sampling.   Open  Mon-Sat 11am-9pm; 4pm-9pm Sun.





Circus Sarasota is now performing under the BIG tent behind UTC.  If you did not attend the opening weekend, you still have until March 5.  But better buy tickets soon, because most shows are selling out.  I am going on Sunday and will let you know how good it was next week.

In the midst of getting out this week's blog, news came of the Wallenda family accident while rehearsing an eight person pyramid.  Extensive television coverage that evening and into Thursday.  But in the true tradition of "the show must go on", go on it did with a new finale created in just a few days.  Based on reviews the entire production is worthy of community support.


JIM'S RANT.....Read in Saturday's Sarasota Herald Tribune about still another store closing at Westfield Southgate Mall.  This in addition to Dillards and countless others.   Which takes me to UTC,  University and I75.  Though there are days when traffic is almost non-existent, there are times like now when they thrive. Thanks to Circus, Rowing Events, and development of east side area, they will remain vibrant even in light of the growing popularity of on-line shopping.

Get out and enjoy our fabulous early spring weather.....Until next week.....JIM

Gaga brings her spectacular act to Tampa 12/1/17!!

 

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 5, 20017

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL???  SUPER SUNDAY IS FINALLY HERE!!!!

IN A FEW HOURS THE HYPE WILL BE OVER!!!!

 If you haven't been in awhile, Monday is the PERFECT day to visit The Ringling/The John & Mable Ringling Museum of Art.  Located 5401 Bay Shore Road, it is easily accessible from wherever you live or are staying; and Monday is FREE day at Museum of Art; though you will have to pay to visit other attractions.

We went a few Monday's ago.  The parking lot was full when we arrived before noon.  After a few circles we found a space and walked into the building.  To our surprise, wrist bands had been eliminated for Monday.  Instead we were greeted by a volunteer who checked off our zip code, and we breezed in.


Their current Gallery of Contemporary Art exhibit is Pathless Woods; an interactive, multi-media installation in which the visitor is invited to walk through a forest of ribbons.  Hard to describe here, but be prepared for lights, music and video as you walk your way through those ribbons.  Worth the trip; even if you have to pay.

Open daily 10:00AM-5:00PM.  Admission includes tram service available with stops located throughout the property. 

Just breaking!!! It was announced this week, the Ringling Museum is teaming up with Feld Entertainment, yes that one from recently shuttered circus, to produce its Summer Circus Spectacular at the Historic Asolo Theatre.  Always a sell-out, this year's show is destined for the same fate.  Stay tuned.

While in the area, you're not far from a familiar name among Sarasota restaurants: Captain Brian's Restaurant and Seafood Market.  Fresh fish arrives daily to eat in or take home.  Along with the one of the region's best  salad bars, Brian now offers a full bar to go along with their beer and wine favorites.  Conveniently located 8421 N. Tamiami Trail.

  
There is usually a wait at busy dinner hours; however, we took advantage of a not too well known policy of accepting reservations for parties of 6 or more.   As you can guess from picture, all of us were happy with dinner. PLUS, even in a crowded dining room, you could actually her the person across from you.




 My Romeo group had lunch this week at State Street, located 1533.  We ate in back room which can seat at least 12 comfortably.  Not much has changed since opening in 2013;  well there was a management change, but one would never know it from menu or quality of food.  We had various salads and sandwiches which were all very good.  Their Farmers Market Bloody Mary is excellent, as was the service.

One negative, which has been consistent since opening nearly four years ago is the up-charge for items which I feel should be included.  For instance, their side of Rustic Bread & Flat Bread with "pink sea Salt" is $3!  There is no other bread available.  I cannot recall another restaurant in Sarasota that doesn't offer bread at your table.  In addition, their side of coleslaw is minuscule. When asked, the waiter stated there would be a slight additional charge for another one.  Ridiculous.  However, I still recommend State Street.

Open Tuesday-Saturday lunch and dinner.  Saturday and Sunday for brunch; though a warning about Saturday.  They are extremely busy due to proximity of Farmer's Market.  If you haven't been there recently a lounge has been added and is open daily 4:30-close.  This is a good alternative to Boca;  which has a much younger appeal.   

Letters, I get Letters....Marlene M.  writes"...went to FST today.  Acting excellent.  Story line so true.  Lots of back flash.  I liked it, but didn't love it.  Gary didn't like it."(Brownsville Song)

Jane H. writes..." On your review of CPK, I have to disagree with you.  The service was very good, friendly and caring, but our food was not up to par.  Neither of us cared to finish what we ordered.  Pea soup had no taste.  The food was lacking in flavor.  Manager gave us a small pizza which was delicious.  Need to rethink new menu..." 


Going to a movie this weekend or during the week?  Then, I urge you to see an excellent Michael Keaton playing the role of  McDonald's presumed founder Ray Kroc.  You will learn, as I  did,  Kroc's fascinating life from door to door salesman to owner of one of America's first franchise success stories.  Though slow at first, the story is so compelling I was disappointed to see The Founder end.

 
  


If you weren't paying attention Tuesday,  Phil saw his shadow!! Tradition tells us we will have six more weeks of winter.  However, it should be pointed out Phil's forecasting skills are not always reliable.  His accuracy is about the same as flipping a coin.  In the past 28 years, he has been correct 13 times.  You do the math.
  


JIM'S RANT....A member of my illustrious Romeo group provides me with a rant this week.  It has nothing to do with traffic, weather or the rudeness of people these days.  It has to do with FOOD.  Larry C wonders not why so many restaurants offer gluten free options; but why so few offer diabetic options, which has more in that category than the other.  Could it be one is trendier at the moment????

Larry's wife Jan is also a contributor this week.  She heard Amore Restaurant is closing its Longboat location on 5/31 and moving either to Circle or Downtown.  More in coming months.

If Phil lived in Sarasota he would not have been able to get out from under his shadow this past week.   A spectacular preview of what SPRING is going to bring.  Until next week.....JIM