NOVEMBER 8, 2016

PLEASE PAUSE FOR A MOMENT OF TRIBUTE WEDNESDAY AS WE CELEBRATE
VETERANS DAY....2015

 

This week also marks the beginning of ASOLO Rep's 2015-16 season.  It promises to be one of their best in years starting the 13th with one of the best Broadway musicals EVER....WEST SIDE STORY.  And, Joey McKneely, a former Tony nominee is directing  this stunning revival.  Some of our most memorable theater music comes from this one; including Tonight, America and Maria.

Tickets are going fast for ALL performances so I urge you to act now as the show must close December 27 to make way for the January opening of 2014 Tony Award winner for best play, ALL THE WAY.  It's 1964 and Lyndon Johnson is about to change America forever. To purchase tickets for these performances and the ones that follow click here.

I Saw a movie at Burns Court which is on the shelf until after Cine-World.  VICTORIA was shot in real time over the course of 21/2 hours starting sometime around 4:30am and ending close to 7:00.  Very few movies are done this way, and most don't get away with it. VITORIA does, though the first hour which sets up the "caper" is confusing; so I suggest you read the synopsis before going.  But, if you do go, and you like creative movies, you will like this one.  It involves a heist, some violence and lots of good acting.  Check the listings to see if it's playing.



Looking for a place for lunch that comes along with a beautiful view,  or would you prefer a big Sunday Brunch buffet?  You'll find them at  University Park Country Club.  Though a private club, they do open the doors to non-members for lunch and Sunday Brunch.

    This time of year reservations are a must so call The Park Grille & Cafe 355-3888 ext.247. Lunch is served 11:30am-2:30pm with typical lunch menu; Monday is soup, salad and deli buffet for $10.95.  Sunday Brunch 10:00am-2:00pm $21.95. Price does not include tax and tip.
 
Turkey season is upon us, though it's hard to recognize what with the Benderson lights and decorations already up since late October and FM radio station  92.1 wall to wall Christmas music.  I for one, eat turkey year round not just on holidays, and made a discovery a few years ago I am going to share.  BJ'S, along with their rotisserie chicken also has a rotisserie turkey available every day.  Two pounds of turkey breast from Harvestland for the ridiculous price of $4.99.  Of course to get this exceptional product you have to be a BJ'S member. 


And, while on the subject of food, Contributing editor,  Debbie Yonker sent an interesting cooking tip not only for the holidays, but year round.  She states..."when slicing, dicing or chopping onions light a tea candle next to the cutting board.  The flame will absorb the fumes from onion that cause your eyes to water and burn..."  I now can state without equivocation...Jim Knows Sarasota has information well beyond what I know about living here!!!



Blu Kouzina has become a very popular restaurant on the circle, with people waiting for tables as late as  8:30,  and this is with the addition of several sidewalk tables.  The food is as good as ever, in fact, maybe even better than you remember; however, buyer beware.  The prices are higher this season; especially the fish and the portions, again the fish, smaller.  However, if you are the mood for authentic Greek cuisine, this is the place for you.

Sarasota will be home for the 2015 ISPS Handa Cup Tournament November 12-14.   Presented by Palm Aire Country Club & The LPGA Legends Tour, the event kicks off with a 9:30 exhibition on the 12th with Nancy Lopez, Sally Blalock and other legends.  If you're  unfamiliar with Palm Aire it is located at University Park Blvd and Whitfield Rd.  Call 877-776-8162 or go online to order your tickets in advance. 

Mark your calendar for next weekend as the27th annual St. Armands Circle Fall Craft Festival fills the area with artists, craftsmen, jewelers each day 10:00am-5:00pm.  Arrive early as parking around the Festival is at a premium.

 

As I sit here writing this week's blog it is 88 degrees and sunny.  I am also listening to 92.1  playing wall to wall Christmas music NOW!!! 

And the Christmas lights are on all over UTC as well as every Benderson shopping center in and around University.  If you don't live near University and I75 it is well worth the trip to see this year's beautiful displays.  They've outdone themselves.

JIM'S RANT.....Last week's rant hit a nerve.  Much negative reaction from readers who felt I was targeting  states and countries unfairly as well as snowbirds and tourists.  The states were chosen at random; did not mean to single out any one state.  However, every Florida plate does not necessarily mean a full timer.  Many have opted to become Floridians for at least 6 months to avoid the tax back home.  Bottom line, even with a green light look both ways.  People do drive crazy here!!!

 Once again, Tracy has put her fine touches on this week's blog.  See you next week....JIM

IF YOU'RE READING SATURDAY EVENING HE'S HOSTING SNL AT 11:30