SEPTEMBER 27, 2015

A FOND FAREWELL TO POPE FRANCIS, AN INSPIRATIONAL LEADER FOR ALL MANKIND....WE ARE ALL THE BETTER  FOR HIS VISIT....

From his first meeting with President Obama; his address to a joint meeting of the United States Congress; United Nations; Ground Zero; Central Park to Benjamin Franklin Parkway to all stops in between he charmed and thrilled thousands.  Pope Francis is truly a world leader beloved as no Pope before .  Bon Voyage and safe journey home.  We hope he comes  back again soon.  We need his humility, dignity and grace which is so lacking now in our country.

It's hard to believe that 2015 marks the SEVENTH year of the Ringling International Arts Festival experience.  During that time RIAF has grown into one of our major cultural events drawing talent and attendees from around the country and world.  Time Out London states.."progressive programming that would rival anything in New York and London" this year's edition is as creative and innovative as any that have come before.

Party closing fireworks display

BOLLYWOOD DREAMS opening night party is Thursday, October 15th. It includes open bar, great food stations, dancing, entertainment and a gigantic fireworks show to end the evening.

Performances begin Friday October 16th and continue through Sunday October 18th with last show at 5pm. For specific details and to order tickets click here.  Since most of the performances sell out I suggest you act NOW!!!

If you go to RIAF, visit the Ringling or are planning to attend a performance this season at the ASOLO REP, then make your experience complete by dining for  lunch or dinner at MUSE. You can also drop by from 3-5 and snack on a smaller version of both menus.  Formerly Treviso, Muse is managed by Tableseide Restaurant Group, owners of Libby's, Louies Modern ,The Francis and under construction Oak and Stone.

Smoked Trout Appetizer

Since lunch has been my only meal,  I will not address the other menus.  The food was delicious.  My group had the Chef's Lunch Salad, and though small, it was exceptionally tasteful.  After speaking to the manager, and then he to his chef, we were  promised a larger portion on a future visit.  Those smart enough to order a hamburger, grinder, or tuna salad wrap with all those french fries made a better lunch decision than we did.

MUSE is open for lunch daily and dinner Tuesday-Saturday.  My strong suggestion is to book early this season; especially dinner before ASOLO where you park your car in one convenient location for both events.


The American Character continues to be the theme for ASOLO REP'S 57th season.  Single tickets for all shows are now on sale at box office or 351-8000 or by clicking here now!  The season kicks off in grand style with one of Broadway's classic musicals, West Side Story; previews November 10,11&12 opening the 13th and running  through December 27.  A great Christmas gift for the entire family.

Also new this year are earlier starting times for Wednesday and Thursday performances 1:30 for matinee and 7:30 evening.  The season continues into the summer.  Of particular note is the WORLD PREMIERE in May of JOSEPHINE, which is heading to Broadway after its run here. 

More on the entire season in future blogs.  We've come a long way from Jackie Mason....Renee Fleming to Josh Groban to West Side Story!  SARASOTA is the place to be for the best in music, dance, theatre and performers.  No longer can you call us SLEEPY.  We are now one of the most cultural exciting spots in all of Florida.

TELEVISION ALERT!!! Tonight (Sunday) 60 Minutes begins its 47th season with a blockbuster program featuring an exclusive interview with Vladimir Putin, who is due here this week to meet with President Obama and speak at the UN.  Charlie Rose, the best when it comes to any type of interview, but especially with a world leader,  traveled to Moscow to land this one. 

 AND, Scott Pelley in a no holds barred interview with Donald Trump where he attempts to pin him down on issues.  There is more, but those of us on the east coast may see a shortened version due to football.  Check your listings and if you can't watch live, I suggest taping the show following for extended coverage.


During the summer, one of my favorite Sarasota restaurants changed hands.  Located  a mile east of I75 in Lakewood Ranch, Lucky Pelican looks, tastes and feels no different than previous owners.  Why mess with a good formula?  Obviously they didn't.  And, business is as brisk as ever.

  Lucky Pelican is to that end of town as Dry Dock is to the other.  No surprises; just good food, good service and reasonable prices. And lo and behold, it was announced this week that Gecko's Hospitality Group has purchased Dry Dock!!! According to published reports no change anticipated.  More restaurants seem to be leaning to consolidation.  Stay tuned.

JIM'S RANT...Dealing with a cable company is an awful experience.  From phone prompts to the correct department to finally connecting with a person not trained with phone etiquette to getting cut off numerous times....well, frustrating to say the least.  Attempting to cancel one service, several additional services were also deleted from email confirmation necessitating additional calls and more dropped calls.  Life was much simpler with that 13" black and white picture and 4 channels.

As always a great thank you to Tracy.  Until next week, you all have a great one.......JIM...... and as always please email suggestions or comments to jfox1043@comcast.net

This past Wednesday we went from summer to fall
In a few weeks those of you back North will see this!!! 
Here in Sarasota summer lingers!!!