DECEMBER 14, 2014

 

COMING ALIVE IN A BIG WAY IS DOWNTOWN SARASOTA........NEW SHOPS....NEW RESTAURANTS....HOTELS UNDER CONSTRUCTION...

 

Jim Knows Sarasota has devoted considerable space to UTC, but now it is time to move on to other vibrant parts of town.  There are new shops on Main Street, old and new restaurant favorites, hotels and condos under construction and a new attitude as the city attempts to reinvent itself for future residents and tourists.

First Friday gave us an opportunity to see several new stores in the 1400 block of Main.  From soap to olive oil to chocolate they were unique, quaint and different from anything we've ever seen there before.          
                 

One of newest shops THE HERBARIUM had an open house complete with Italian wine, cheese and prosciutto along with small samples of their many products. From soaps to cream to cosmetics; and at reasonable prices, the charming Italian couple that owns the shop have plans of expanding not only here but around the country. Their website lists all and affords an opportunity to shop on-line once you've sampled and want more. Click here and enter a world of Italian beauty.

Other new stores of note are Blue Moon Antiques, Wine Rose Interiors, White Studios, Inc. and PJ's Boutique.  There are more including old favorites Brooks Brothers, Evelyn and Arthur, Eileen Fisher, JMcLaughlin, and Fit2Run.

 

Both Fit2Run and Brooks Brothers have stores east of Main street.  What I personally like best about Brooks Bothers is the difference in both stores.  While their UTC store continues to evolve, Main St. remains consistant.  I personally like the changing identity of UTC. 

 

 

 Include the Saturday Farmer's Market which continuets to attract huge crowds, the many arts and crafts shows, plus in a few weeks you can come downtown to be entertained all evening and watch the pineapple drop at midnight New Years Eve. My point is, SARASOTA is far reaching these days.  Go out and discover for yourself.

SAVE THE DATE.......The Len Mazur Memorial Lecture on Global Anti-Semitism series established by Ros in Len's memory is kicking off in grand style.  On the evening of Wednesday, February 25,  one of this country's most distinguished public Jewish defenders of civil liberties and a wonderful spokesperson on the anti-Semitism Alan Dershowitz will be guest speaker at a dinner event co-sponsored by The Jewish Federation.

Ticket information will be released early next month, and I will have it for you.  Be watching as this will surely be a sell-out. Of course the speech and dinner are open to people of all faiths.

THE PLAYERS THEATRE on the Trail near Blvd. of the Arts is our local theatre of note, featuring homegrown talent in all types of productions.  Playing now through December 21st is the delightful and seasonal A Christmas Story. 
Gayle and Harry Yaverbaum recently saw the production and write, " Never let it be said there is a lack of talent in the Sarasota area. Case in point, " A Christmas Story" at the Players Theatre, a musical from off Broadway showcasing much local talent, especially Sarasota's young talent.  The acting, singing and dancing will lift spirits and leave one feeling great.

Remember the name JUDAH WOOMART, playing the part of Ralphie.  He is bound to be a theatre favorite in the years ahead.  Remember you only have a week left to see this delightful presentation." For schedule and ticket information click here.
 

I have been searching for the word or words  that best describes SOPHIE'S at Saks.  Sophisticated, unique, quiet, tasteful decor, great food.  Guess what!!!  All of the above.  This is a special restaurant located on the second floor of a remarkable department store.  Only the second Sophies  to open; there is one in Chicago;  it is a bright spot at UTC with its own brand of diversification to satisfy most of you.

One of the early complaints heard about Sophie's were its high prices.  Ridiculous.  You don't have to spend a fortune to enjoy a good meal.  Yes, higher priced than most of the other fine restaurants at UTC, it nonetheless serves its purpose.  A quiet spot away from all the hustle and bustle to sit, eat, drink and relax from a day of shopping.  BUT, you don't have to be a shopper to enjoy a good meal.  I highly recommend Sophie's. A great addition to our community.

SARASOTA is a city with a huge dog population.  Just go to the Downtown Farmer's Market on Saturday. All shapes, breeds and dress attire; the dogs easily outclass the people.  Some are even better dressed.  Anyway, the daughter of neighbors, Erica Siegel, has recently  moved to Sarasota, leaving a successful dog  sitting company in Bethesda to join her parents in a warmer environment.

Erica has started a pet sitter and or walker company here!!  She will even stay overnight with your pets and walk them during the day.  References available on request.  Your best way to contact Erica is email ericasiegel01@gmail.com Erica is also available for parties as server.
 

JIM'S RANT.....Tis the season to be jolly.  Tis the season to be happy.  Tis the season to be kind to others etc. etc. etc.  Then why is it there are so many cranky and rude.  I see it at bridge, at the mall, in restaurants and almost everywhere I go.  Lighten up!!  We are so lucky to be in this place in time and instead of moaning ENJOY!!!

Taking a break after next week's blog to spend time with family.  More next week.  Thanks again, Tracy for your fine efforts.  And thank you to Gayle and Harry Yaverbaum, as they join my staff of contributors.....JIM

JUST ANNOUNCED...THE ONE AND ONLY DIANA ROSS FEB 13 VAN WEZEL TICKETS ON SALE NOW!!!  If you missed her sold-out show last year take advantage of this one.