SUNDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2013

Last week a new law prohibiting texting while driving went into effect in SARASOTA and all of Florida.  In order to be given a $30 fine, you must be stopped for some other traffic violation.  What gives?  Isn't texting while driving just as serious as speeding while driving??? having lights off during a rainstorm???? driving in the wrong lane??? AND where is the promotion announcing this new law???  Is the NRA involved here as well as guns???

On a more cheerful note, ENOUGH SAID, starring Julia Louis Dreyfus and James Gandolfini, is a wonderful story of real people going through a second relationship that takes an unexpected twist.  It is a sharp, insightful comedy that humorously explores the mess that often comes with getting involved again.  Go see it and be rewarded with a feel good movie.  Now at the Burns. 

Mark your calendar for this year's CINE-WORLD Film Festival November 1-10 at Burns and Lakewood Ranch Cinema.  Over the years this Festival has brought Academy Award winner King's Speech, nominee Black Swan, The Wrestler and Quartet among others.  As soon as the list is available, I will give you my choices along with the web link for ticket ordering.  Members get first crack at tickets.

Staying cheerful, if you are looking for a great read and want to laugh yourself silly, pick up Billy Crystal's "Still Foolin' Em."  If you like Crystal, and who doesn't, he will keep you laughing from beginning to end.  You'll learn how he began his Ali/Cosell imitations,  and how at 65 he is still selling out his one man show on Broadway.

On FX starting this Wednesday is the most bizarre, frightening and entertaining show on television....the third season of AMERICAN HORROR STORY...starring Jessica Lange, Kathy Bates, Taissa Farmiga, Angela Bassett, Gabourey Sidbe among others.  It is unlike any show on any network.

Among the new shows, I recommend BLACKLIST NBC Monday at 9 starring James Spader and THE CRAZY ONES starring Robin Williams
Wednesday 9pm on CBS, though to be honest, week 2 was not as funny as week 1.  I haven't watched many of the new shows, but what I can tell from the comedies all trying to copy MODERN FAMILY with lots of yelling and predictable jokes they will be gone by Thanksgiving.

Cable and Netflix are still the best for quality adult entertainment.   Last season's BBC original series BROADCHURCH ended last week, but you can still see it ON DEMAND.  It remains one of the best from  this summer.

UNIVERSITY TOWN CENTER: Unconfirmed rumor, but very credible.....both Morton's Steak House and Too Jays are committed.  Stay Tuned!!! On THE DISTRICT across the street, work continues on ETHAN ALLEN, but has come to a halt on PANERA.  I earlier stated both would be open this year.  I stand corrected.

NEVER TOO EARLY:  If stores are already into CHRISTMAS mode and advertisers have started running their shopping ads, then why can't I make a HOLIDAY PARTY suggestion. For weeks you have been reading about one of my local favorites MOZZARELLA FELLA on main street downtown SARASOTA. This past week I was again invited to a party catered by them.  THE BEST!!!  The variety will suit any event; the prices are competitive with any caterer; and they serve you with a smile.   I strongly suggest you check their menu or create your own.  You won't be sorry.

For several years now, WHOLE FOODS, has been a downtown staple bringing an untold amount of visitors to their store.  Last week, I had dinner before a movie and must say there isn't another salad bar in town to equal them for freshness, quality and variety. From cold salads to hot to soup to delicatessen counter to fresh pizza,  you won't have any difficulty finding your favorite item.  The store itself has undergone a make over with more take out foods and better bakery items.  Open most days 9am-9pm with plenty of undercover parking, it is worth a look.  One note of caution, it is PRICEY!!!

STONEWOOD on University is at it again!!!! For the month of October, they are offering an early bird special prix fixe menu 3pm-5:30pm every day featuring two specials including salad, several entree choices and dessert for either $16 or $24. If you were one of the lucky ones to visit STONEWOOD last month you were treated to an outstanding meal at 1/2 off menu prices.  The promotion grew so large that it was nearly impossible to be seated by the 5pm cutoff.  This promotion is also being offered at their other location on Stickney Point 4pm-5:30 pm.

More restaurant news next week, as I revisit some of your favorites.  Most are easy to visit now as season is still a few weeks away.


JIM'S RANT started at the top with text while driving ban.  During the week, I paid close attention to drivers and you can only imagine what I witnessed.  Texting....yes....as well as combing hair...putting on lipstick....eating.....cell phones galore.....baby holding.....best to stay focused while driving; especially with those around you not doing so!!!

As always, I could have not done this without the fine efforts of Tracy.  She has dedicated countless hours to this small endeavor, and when she finished proofing last week's edition and learned of George Miles renegotiated contract, she was a little peeved to say the least.  Well, Tracy no worries, you are being promoted to Editor In Chief with the pay raise you requested!!!

Until next week........JIM