THURSDAY, MARCH 4

Spring Training 2010 starts at Ed Smith Stadium with the Baltimore Orioles. Florida has 15 baseball training facilities. The experience of attending a game no matter who is playing is so much fun and you get to meet people from all over the country. www.baltimoreorioles.mlb.com/spring_training/tickets Call 888-329-3365 or 954-4101

Gary Gorman’s exhibition  of “Critters and Comforts” paintings at the Local Coffee and Tea, 5138 Ocean Blvd thru April.

FRIDAY, MARCH 5

Sarasota Opera’s free winter concert series featuring “Operetta” at noon in the Opera House Lobby at 61 N. Pineapple Ave. www.sarasotaopera.org or 366-8450

Music on Main at Lakewood Ranch Main St starting at 6-9 pm. Visit from the Clydesdales, music by the Venturas, art, face painting, food, beer and wine. Benefits the Family Network on Disabilities. www.LWRmainstreet.com

Baobab Tree Gallery in Village of the Arts, Bradenton will host  an exhibition of recycled material in conjunction with “reVISION” a show and sale of works by more than 25 artists with an opening reception at 6 pm at 1113 12th St. W. Bradenton.

Orioles vs the Pirates at Ed Smith Sadium at 7:05 pm.

Patti Star’s Birthday Party at Lonjevity Cafe at 8 pm. Cake is served at 9 pm. Jazz band will be playing. Come early at 6 pm and have dinner with her.

First Friday Art Walk downtown from 6-9pm. Parkland Art Boutique & Gallery fine art, contemporary crafts and unique gifts at 506 Pineapple St, a new store in town, would like to invite you to drop by for wine and cheese and take a look around.

SATURDAY, MARCH 6

Sarasota Folk Festival goes Green with a weekend full of folk music, food and children’s activities as well as eco friendly vendors at Oscar Scherer State Park, 1843 S. Tamiami Tr, Osprey. 11-6 pm Sat and 11-4 pm Sunday.$25 all day Sat, $15 after 5 pm. www.sarasotafolkfestival.org Elaine Silver will be performing

Backroom Short Film Festival, a visual and interactive evening of short films by local filmakers, with conversations, food and beverages. Art Center Sarasota, 707 N. Tamiami Tr. $10 ACS members, $12 non members. www.thebackroom.tv

5th Annual Sarasota Downtown Fine Arts and Crafts Show. More than 70 exhibitors in all types of mediums at Selby Five Points Park downtown by the Library. Sat 10-5 pm and Sun 10-4 pm. www.communityaffair.com Benefits in part the Humane Society of Sarasota County.

Lakeside Concert at Summer’s House, 7336 Curlew St., 3 –5 pm. Troupador Dana Lyons who sings, tells stories and is a long time environmentalist and social justice activist and will inspire you to action. He recently released his 8th CD, “Three Legged Coyote”. Sample his music online: www.cowswithguns.com $10 donation. Park along south side of Curlew St. and BYO chairs and eats to share.

Melanie Massell and her band plays at the Ritz Carlton 9:30 pm. www.mmmusic.net and www.hotitemband.com

SUNDAY, MARCH 7

2010 Parade of Homes, started on Feb 20th to March 7th. www.paradeofhomesinfo.com

Jewish Film Festival, March 7-10 at the Beatrice Friedman Theatre on the Federation Campus, 580 McIntosh Rd. Individual tickets $7 or festival pass for all four films $21 www.jfedsrq.org for movie info and tickets.

Orioles vs Boston Red Sox at 1:05 pm. Ed Smith Stadium.  Standing room only available

MONDAY, MARCH 8

Orioles vs. Minnesota Twins 1:05 pm at Ed Smith Stadium

TUESDAY, MARCH 9

A Visual World View of Global Warming through the eyes of a photojournalist, 4 pm, at New College, Mildred Sainer Pavilion, 5313 Bay Shore Road. $15. 941-487-4888 or www.events@ncf.edu

Orioles vs. Rays 1:05 pm at Ed Smith Stadium

WEDNESDAY, MARCH 10

FUTURE EVENTS

March 12, Norman invites you to a Blindfolded Trance Dance from 8-10pm at the Prana Yoga and Healing Center, 3840 Osprey Ave. http://www.facebook.com/l/91692;www.throughfrequency.com

March 13, Shamrock Festival on Hillstreet from noon to 7 pm. www.shamrockfestivalsrq.com

March 20 and 27 Sarasota’s Got Talent Contest at the Glenridge Performing Arts Center, 7333 Scotland Way. For tickets call 941-552-5325. Auditions (by appointment only call 941-359-6717) are March 4 and 8 from 7-9pm at the Palm-Aire Country Club, 5601 Country Club Way. Various categories.

March 24-April 3 Pal Sailor Circus presents A Night at the Oscars www.sailorcircus.org

March 27-28 is the 8th Annual Downtown Sarasota Art & Craft Festival. www.artfestival.com

April 4, Easter Fest at Payne Park from noon to 7 pm with a Christian rock concert. www.easterfestsrq.com

April 9-11 the Gulf Coast Rhythm & Ribfest at Manatee County Fairgrounds featuring The Charlie Daniels Band, Eric Darius, David Nail and Ginuwine.

April 9-18 Sarasota Film Festival

FOOD FOR THOUGHT

Pincher’s Crab Shack has the freshest seafood in town at 5501 Palmers Crossing Circle off Clark Rd at Honore. They have their own fleet of fishing boats that literally catch it and serve it. Always happy hour specials.

BUSINESS BUZZ

Kroaky’s Karaoke is Sarasota’s ultimate karaoke venue at 4400 S. Tamiami Tr. Kroaky’s offers ten soundproofed private rooms that cater for parties of up to 50 people, as well as a public lounge that holds 50 people. All rooms have a computerized karaoke system with 18,000 English songs and 25,000 Asian songs. They have a karaoke contest running every Wednesday thur March 17 ending on St. Patty’s Day with a $1000 prize. They also have a kids karaoke contest going. Check it out on  www.kroakys.com

WEBSITES TO REMEMBER

www.wherewillwegotonight.com will tell you what is happening musically around town by venue or band.

www.glowingtemple.com is Natalia’s website who is a trained raw and living food chef and can prepare healthy fresh food for any event you may have.

www.qbcrystal.com read about quantum balance crystals which are infused with beneficial and specific frequencies which optimize the health and vital energy of all living beings.

www.naturesgift.com where you will find the best quality essential oils and products with oils in them. I love this site. They have a germ beater esssential oil mix that you can add to any cleaning product that kills most of the common bacteria that we live with it smells fabulous. Order a tube of calendula skin lotion and use it on your hands and face. It is a superior product and not expensive.

www.greenridgeherbals.com to find some of the best skin care that is based on essential oils and other organic plant derived materials. I have been buying my skin care from them for many years now.

www.naturalzing.com a great site for all kinds of natural organic products from skin care to food that many raw or organic restaurants use. They have a sunscreen with SPF 30 in it that is amazing because it is only made up of physical sun blocks and other essential oils and is not greasy at all. It smells great and I love it for the face and neck.

PET PEEVES

Cosmetic companies like Estee Lauder, Lancome, Prescriptive, Skinmedica, and many others that you can only buy thru doctors that overcharge the consumer for skin care products that are full of additives, cheap fillers, preservatives. There are so many great small skin companies that produce great products, many of which are organic, that can give you better results without sacrificing your health. Sanre is a local product and you can buy it at Whole Foods and the Granary. Mychelle is another. Or go online and google organic skin care.

THURSDAY, FEB 18

Cocktails at the Ca D’ Zan from 6-9 pm. admission $5. Sheri and the Vision plays.

Circus Sarasota now thru Feb 28 features Nick Wallenda in the “Legend Lives On”. www.CircusSarasota.org for more info

Sarasota Pet Choice Awards on February 18, at 7:30pm at Animals by Nature, 1215 Mango St. Everyone is welcome to attend, reservations are recommended. To reserve your admission ticket, call Animals by Nature at 941-953-2983.

FRIDAY, FEB 19

Benefit for WSLR featuring Samatha Crain and the Midnight Shivers, 8 pm Lake Osprey Village Cabaret, 6265 Lake Osprey Drive in Lakewood Ranch.  Lake Osprey Village is conveniently located off University Parkway east of I-75, exit #213.  Turn right at the first traffic light, then right again onto Lake Osprey Drive. $15 in advance, $20 at door.www.wslr.org or by calling 941-894-6469.

Elaine Silver’s CD release concert in St. Petersburg, FL at Sacred Lands, 7pm, 1620 Park Street North. 727/347-0354 www.sacredlands.info.

Clearwater Sea Blues Festival 2010 takes place from Feb 19 to 21 at Coachman’s Park overlooking the intercoastal waterway. Food, music and lots of high energy. Feb 19 is Tab Benoit, Feb 20 is Robert Cray Band, Feb 21 is John Mayall. www.clearwaterseablues.com Free Admission

Towles Court Art Walk from 6 to 10 pm third Friday.

Los Listos” A Nuevo Flamenco, Gypsy, Swing Guitar Duo Live at Ceviche  5:30 pm

Juno and Jove’s Love Thyself Sale,100 Central Avenue at Second St.  Fri. Feb 19 thru Tues, Feb 23 at 9 am. Stunning eco friendly clothing. ***** stars

Libby’s Two Dine for $25, 1917 Osprey Avenue. Dine both Fri, Feb 19-Tues, Feb 23 at 4 pm

Live Entertainment at Sarasota Vineyard, 1528 Main Street at 7:30 pm on Friday and Saturday

SATURDAY, FEB 20

Elaine Silver’s Noise Ordinance CD Release Party, Noon to 2am. Don’t miss this opportunity to Enjoy Local Original Music in one place! Cock and Bull Pub. MANY artists will be performing all day, including Radio Free Carmela and the Transmitters, Tanya Radke and many more.  Elaine goes on about 9pm. www.facebook.com/noiseordinance.

Glass Onion plays at the Polo Grill in Lakewood Ranch. They are a Beatles Tribute Band.

Woof Gang Bakery in co-operation with Animal Health Services will be offering Low Cost Vaccines to your pet(s) from 2:30-3:30 pm. No appointments necessary. Rabies Vaccines $12. Woof Gang Bakery in Sarasota at 1809 S Osprey Avenue in Southside Village.

X & Y Festival at Ringling College of Art and Design, Exhibition Hall, 1130 Greensboro Lane. $10 in advance and $12 at door. Hosted by Driven Productions it will feature 10  multi-genre acts and a few bonus guests, all geared toward the “X” MTV Generation (those born between 1961 and 1981) and the  “Y” Net Generation (those born between 1982 to 2001). www.xyfest.com

Discover Lake Manatee starting at 10 am at Lake Manatee State Park, 20007 S.R. 64, E. Bradenton. Wild animal exhibits, nature walks, arts and crafts, junior fishing clinic, food and more. Free with admission into park. www.floridastateparks.org/lakemanatee.

Cortez Commercial Fishing Festival in the Manatee fishing village of Cortez both Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 6 pm. Lots of seafood and entertainment. Benefits go to the FISH Preserve which will purchase 95 acres of mangrove wetlands east of the village. Admission is $2, children under 12 free. www.cortez-fish.org

Noise Ordinance CD Release Party from noon to 2 am at the Cock & Bull Pub, 975 Cattlemen Rd. $10-15.free for children under 12. The CD is a double disc compilation  featuring 40 area performers playing everything from punk and folk to hip hop and rock. Experience Sarasota’s diverse music scene all at the same time. This concert celebrates local music, unifies area performers and brings attention to the area’s noise ordinances. God knows it needs to change because in order to play music outdoors in downtown Sarasota you have to leave it. www.noiseordiancecd.com

22nd Annual Downtown Sarasota Festival of the Arts, both Saturday and Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm. www.artfestival.com

Woofstock at Michaels on East Ballroom starting at 6:30 pm. $195 each. Cocktails, dinner and dancing. Fundraiser to benefit the Animal Rescue Coalition.941-957-1955 X7 for reservations.

SUNDAY, FEB 21

Clearwater Sea Blues Festival, tonite Ana Popovic shares the bill with John Mayhall and Walter Trout.

Chinese New Years Celebration,  to celebrate Year of the Tiger from noon to 3:30 pm at the Teahouse at Asian Arts and Decor, 5437 Fruitville, Sarasota Crossing. Free

MONDAY, FEB 22

Jam Session at the 5 O’clock Club 8:30 pm

TUESDAY, FEB 23

Elaine Silver plays at Rising Tide International Center, 8-11am; Providing Special Music for Joy Yackley’s Kundalini Yoga and Gong Meditation For Prosperity, 5102 Swift Road. $15 or more suggested Love Offering.  941/923-8983.

WEDNESDAY, FEB 24

Blaise Cafe, 5263 Ocean Boulevard presents Siesta Key Lei’s Jam Session every Wednesday 6:30 to 10:30. Lei just started this gig and it looks like it is a winner.

FUTURE HAPPENINGS

Friday, February 26th, 7:00 p.m. – Moon over Myakka Concert Series with Ben Prestage. Ben will make you live and breathe steamy and raw black water bayou Mississippi Blues – learn more at www.myspace.com/bprestage.  For more information, call 941 361-6511 or 941 373-7839. Tickets sold day of event. $8 per person or $6 for Friends Members

Saturday, February 27th, 4:30 p.m. – Full Moon Kayak Adventure,Reservations Required.  Join Dick Pfaff, local guide and kayak instructor,for a 2 and 1/2+ hour full moon trip on the Myakka, weather and water conditions permitting.  The group will meet near the Ranger Station at 4:30 and 4wd to launch site.  For reservations and more information, call Dick Pfaff at 941 955-8278. Limited space, reservations required.

March 8 the RITZ CARLTON HOTEL presents The Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon to benefit the F.A.I.T.H. (Families in Transitional Housing) program – a comprehensive program where homeless families can rebuild their lives from 11:30 to 1 pm. For more info go to www.wqmagonline.com

April 17 ECO FEST celebrates Earth Day downtown Sarasota. Details coming. Presented by Natural Awakenings.

BUSINESS BUZZ

Second Blessings Thrift Store is having its grand opening on Sat, Feb 20 at 2033 Princeton St. offering furniture, clothing, toys, appliances and everything in between. Entire store is 25% off from Feb 20-27. Free hot dogs and drinks on Saturday. (east of US 301, just south of 12th St.)

Check out Kate Alton’s unique very cool store called Samba on Main St. Classy yet reasonable priced clothes in town. 1652 Main St.

Decor Tile Design: 1668 Main Street, Sarasota, FL, 34236- 941-366-3366  Mon – Sat: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Check out their facebook page by typing in www.facebook.com/decortiledesign Unique one of a kind tile and tiled pieces that make a statement.

Clothesline at 546 Orange Avenue, the retail store, is a gallery and t-shirt boutique located downtown Sarasota in the Historic Burns Square neighborhood. Born on October 31st, 2008 by a group of aspiring artists, photographers and performers to support the underground arts that are rarely seen in Sarasota. www.clothesline.bigcartel.com

Salon Salon at 510 Pineapple, owned by Leonard Panarella,  is where Jerah and I get our hair done by Joanne Davino. Brianna and Stephanie are her compatriot hair designers. They all have a unique gift with hair as   some of my friends can attest to. 953-5548 for an appointment

WEBSITES TO CHECK OUT

www.naturesgift.com one the best sites for high quality essential oils and skin care products. As a licensed esthetician I have been buying from them for years and recommend this site. *****stars.

www.nancymillerphotography.com Contemporary Photography~ Nancy Miller is a photographer who has lived in Sarasota for over 14 years. She has an eye for composition and beauty.

www.wherewillwegotonight.com is an easy to navigate site that lets you know in a click what is happening that night musically by venue or by band

http://vanillaandcaramel.com/ Jerah and Krimo’s new one stop shop web design site for the small business.

www.sarasotamusicandbars.com Terry “Tbone” Rhodes site for finding your way around town plus lots of pics of who is out and about.

www.robertbakst.com if you are looking for a therapist.

www.throughfrequency.com Normen Schindowski, Sound Healer & Massage Therapist. Norman offers massage, sound healing, toning classes at no charge.  Class is on Sunday 10:30 to noon and Monday 7-8:30 pm. Donations are welcome, yet only if your abun-(dance) can afford it. By any means please come and enjoy the power of your own voice. Normen1@comcast.net or Tel: 941 726 3262. Check out the website to get more details.

26th annual Greek Glendi Festival today thru Sunday, Feb 14 at the Greek Orthodox Church, 7671 N. Lockwood Ridge. Live Greek music and food and crafts. www.stbarabarafestival.org

FRIDAY, FEB 12

Mitch Clark plays at Lakewood Ranch Main St. starting at 6-9. Got rained out last Friday

Circus Sarasota, “The Legend Lives On” goes thru Feb 28. Under the big top (Tuttle and 12th). www.circussarasota.org for tickets or buy at the big top box office.The tent is heated.

SATURDAY, FEB 13

Sarasota Exotic Car Fest from 10-4 pm St. Armands Circle. for events go to www.sarasotaexoticcarfest.com

Siesta Tides Arts and Crafts Show on Siesta Beach near the tennis courts. 10-4 pm.

5th Annual Sarasota Fine Arts and Fine Crafts Show downtown at Selby Five Points Park from 1—5 pm on Saturday,and Sunday 10-4 pm.

Old Salty Dog 20th anniversary celebration noon to 8 pm. 1601 Ken Thompson Pkwy. Original menu and prices from 1990

SUNDAY, FEB 14

“Open your hearts for Haiti” concert featuring the Greg Poulos Blues Band, Al Hixon Jazz All Stars, Jennifer Leigh and the New Digs, Dick Hyman, Melanie Massell and etc. from noon to 5 pm at Phillippi Estate park, 5500 Tamiami Tr. $10 per person or $25 per family. Profits benefit Shelter Box USA.

Artz Girls presents a stroll thru Towles Court featuring artwork created by Girls, Inc. 1-3 pm. Art work created by Girls, Inc students mentored by Towles Court artists.

MONDAY, FEB 15

The Drum Studio Rocks for Haiti featuring youth bands plays from 7-9:30 pm at the Irish Rover. $5

FUTURE EVENTS

Feb 20, Woofstock at Michaels on East Ballroom starting at 6:30 pm. $195 each. Cocktails, dinner and dancing. Fundraiser to benefit the Animal Rescue Coalition.941-957-1955 X7 for reservations.

WEBSITES TO CHECK OUT

www.roseycheekboutique.net all the clothes on this site are handmade by the artist for babies, toddlers, preschoolers. She has beautiful dresses for little girls.

www.glowingtemple.com is Natalia’s website who is a raw and living foods chef. She does private parties, recipe development, consulting, and as a personal chef.

BUSINESS BUZZ

Check out John as Sassy Hair Fashions located at 209 Beach Rd. 941-349-6525. He is new in town and is looking to build a clientle. I can personally recommend him as he gave me a dynamite hair cute. He has been a hairdresser for 25 years.

THURSDAY, FEB 4

FLORIDA STATE FAIR opens today thru Feb 15 at the Florida State Fair Grounds, 4800 US 301 N in Tampa. www.floridastatefair.com

LIPPIZZAN STALLIONS winter training sessions and shows every Thursday and Saturday at 10 am thru the end of April at 32755 Singletary Road, Myakka City. www.hlipizzans.com  free to public but donations accepted

LONGJEVITY CAFE Come hear Kitt Moran and a Jazz Trio of talented musicians.  She has sung with some of the great singers including Vic Damone and Tony Bennett. She sings every Thursday at 7:30 pm. no cover

YAPPY HOUR AT THE RANCH is a fund raiser for Nate’s Place Pet Adoption Facility at the Woof Gang Bakery, 8314 Market St., Lakewood Ranch. Wine Tasting and Appetizers. $5. Looking for a companion animal take a peek at this center which adopts out shelter animals

FRIDAY, FEB 5

MUSIC ON MAIN at Lakewood Ranch Main Street from 6-9 pm. Mitch Clark Band plays along with beer, wine and food. Leashed pets welcome. www.mainstreetlakewoodranch.com.

ALLYN GALLUP CONTEMPORARY ART, February Artists Salon Series called “Urban Tropical” presents  Photography By Thomas Carabasi/Collages By Gustavo Ramos Rivera from Feb 3rd-Feb 27th. They both use collages in different mediums.  Opening Reception from 6-9 pm. 1419 5th St. in the Rosemary District.   The Gallery is open 10 PM-5 PM  Tuesday through Saturday.

FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK DOWNTOWN  from 6-9pm. Owner Kevin Greeland invites you to a wine and cheese reception at the Parkland Boutique & Gallery, 506 Pineapple Ave, offering fine art, contemporary crafts and unique gifts. Currently showing new sculpture by talented artists David “Scarbie” Mitchell and Barbara L. Harrison. New paintings by Pamela Ross and new mixed media work by B. Miller.  New jewelry by designers and artists Ruth Mazin and Susan Bilenker. Take a stroll downtown check it out.

SATURDAY, FEB 6

16TH ANNUAL SIESTA CRAFT FAIR Saturday and Sunday from 10 am – 5 pm along Ocean Blvd and Beach Road on the key.

BURNS SQUARE CHILI COOK OFF in the courtyard of Galileo Ristorante from 12-3 pm $5 admission includes one raffle ticket, live DJ and chili. www.burnssquare.com

12TH ANNUAL PHILLIPPI ESTATE PARK ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 4:30 pm. Artists and Crafters from 12 states. free admission.

MELANIE MASSELL AND HOT ITEM play every Saturday at the Ritz Carlton Hotel from 9:30 to 1 am at the Ca d’ Zan Lounge located in the hotel.

SUNDAY, FEB 7

SUPER BOWL PARTIES:

Lido Key Tiki Bar with a live band, food and drink specials at 1234 Benjamin Franklin Drive beginning at 4 pm.  Mattison’s City Grill downtown begins at 6 pm with food and drink specials with big screen TVs

Village Pizzeria is having one last Super Bowl party as they are closing.1812 South Osprey Avenue. Siesta Key Lei will be loosing a place to play on Wednesday nights but gaining so many friends. 

FUTURE EVENTS

SARASOTA PETS CHOICE AWARD CEREMONY on February 18, at 7:30pm at Animals by Nature, 1215 Mango St. Everyone is welcome to attend, reservations are recommended. To reserve your admission ticket, call Animals by Nature at 941-953-2983.

LONGBOAT KEY EDUCATION CENTER presents a 2 hour play class featuring Nia instructors, Michele and Alicia at 1 pm on Feb 13. $40 members, $45 non members. 941-383-8811 or 941-312-5215 The class includes the following: A short introduction to the Focus, A tastes sensation with Food, A Nia routine called Sexi, Words written in the learning, Short discussion of new Ideas.

RITZ CARLTON HOTEL on March 8 presents The Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon to benefit the F.A.I.T.H. (Families in Transitional Housing) program – a comprehensive program where homeless families can rebuild their lives from 11:30 to 1 pm. For more info go to www.wqmagonline.com

WEBSITES TO CHECK OUT

www.nancymillerphotography.com Contemporary Photography~ Nancy Miller is a photographer who has lived in Sarasota for over 14 years. She has an eye for composition and beauty.

www.wherewillwegotonight.com  is an easy to navigate site that lets you know in a click what is happening that night musically by venue or by band

http://vanillaandcaramel.com/ Jerah and Krimo’s new one stop shop web design site for the small business.

 

ILLUMINATING QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen.  Hebrews 11:1

Now my two partners, Jerah and Krimo, and a few other talented artists have collaborated with me on the new website which will launch on Feb 1 and everyone will be sent an email on that Monday to check it out.   Clothes made in a little room in my home in Sarasota now will be available worldwide courtesy of the net (the world is truly flat). And my vision is to include different parts of the community as a backdrop on my photo shoots each month so we can showcase the energy, uniqueness, and talent of this place.

THURSDAY, JAN 28

Glass Onion plays at the Irish Rover in Gulf Gate at 7 pm. Non smoking club.

FRIDAY, JAN 29

Burns Court Cinema “Silhouette of Sounds” a special night of music and film at 10 pm. Three area bands, Villanova Junction, Sons of Hippies, and Strangers Family Band will perform live music to scenes in the movie Clockwork Orange. $6 cover. Come explore how film relates to music up close and personal. 955-3456 or www.filmsociety.org

Pastry Arts Cafe, Jon B. performs favorites of James Taylor, Van Morrison and Paul Simon. 1512 Main. No cover. 955-7545

Sarasota Native North American Indian Festival at the Sarasota Fairgrounds Friday thru Sunday. Focus will be on American Indian life featuring paintings, pottery, jewelry, arts and crafts, traditional Seminole and Navajo food and music by Little Big Mountain and Jim Sawgrass. $6 cover-ages 6-12 $3

Cork Upstairs Lounge 6-7:30PM “Cork’s A Time to Taste” $15 Wine Tasting , “Old versus New: You Be the Judge!” Your monthly opportunity to taste eight wines hand-picked by Cork’s wine specialist for their quality at an affordable price!  Attendees enjoy 20% OFF in the retail section and restaurant post-tasting, with only $5 CORKAGE on featured wines. They have a great band, Sampa, on the weekends that is very cooool.

Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival 2010 from Friday, Jan 29 to Monday, Feb 1. for details go to www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks

New York, New York presents Roy Orbison and Elvis live from 9-11 pm

SATURDAY, JAN 30

Woody’s River Roo in Ellenton, Rocky Bluff – 5717 18th Street East features Melanie Massell and Hot Item from 2-6pm. This is a very cool little local spot on the water that is mostly outdoors and always has great music on weekends. www.woodysriverroo.com It is located across from the Ellenton Mall on the inlet. You can see it from the bridge as you are traveling north

Women As Visionary Awards Event 8am – 5pm; Elaine Silver is an honoree, along with 12 other outrageous women. She would love you all to attend this awesome event. She will also be  performing some of her heart and soul music. $99 includes fabulous workshops, all materials, breakfast and a gourmet lunch www.womenTCB.com 727/254-0342 Lore@LoreRaymond.com.

Selby Gardens is opening its doors to the public at no charge from 10 am to 5 pm

Third annual High School Jazz Festival showcasing 10 area high school bands from 9am to 5pm at the Sarasota High School Auditorium. Some the best young jazz musicians will perform. Professional  jazz musicians will provide comments and suggestions. $5 www.jazzclubsarasota.com

7th Annual St. Armands Winter Art Festival Saturday and Sunday from 10 am to 5:30 pm.

Winter Music Fest from noon to 6 pm Lake Osprey Plaza, Lake Osprey Drive, Lakewood Ranch. free. www.lakeospreyplaza.com

Sarasota Open Ballroom Dance Competition Sat and Sun at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. $30-150. www.sarasotaopen.us.com

Watoto Childrens Choir from Uganda sings at Church of the Rock, 8200 Bee Ridge Rd at 7 pm. admission free. www.HeartsAfire.us

SUNDAY, JAN 31

History Day in the Park at Phillippi Estate Park from 10 am to 4 pm. $5 per car load. bring lawn chairs.

Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival Grand Tasting. Details at www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks

WEDNESDAY, FEB 3

Allyn Gallup Gallery presents Thomas Carabasi’s “Urban/Tropical” and runs from February 3 – 27th at the Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art, 1419-B 5th Street from 6-9 PM. It will feature detailed landscapes from Bali and collaged urban street scenes from Europe and the United States.  www.thomascarabasi.com or the gallery at (941) 366-2093 www.allyngallup.com.  Thomas Carabasi’s photography has won him grants from the Pennsylvania Council of the Arts and The Australian Council of the Arts and his work has been exhibited both nationally and internationally including shows in Australia, Germany and Italy. His work has been published in Popular Photography, ZOOM magazine, Mirabella, View Camera, The London Independent and Nerve Magazine. His work was also featured in the book entitled “The New Nude” published by Nerve in 2001. In 1994 he was a featured artist in the Florida Artists show at the Ringling Museum of Art in Sarasota. Carabasi has work in the collections of the Ringling Museum of Art, The Center for Creative Photography in Tucson, Arizona, The Philadelphia Museum of Art and The Museo Ken Damy in Brescia, Italy. Carabasi has also published a monograph of his work entitled “Traces”, photographs and poetry 1979-1989. He is currently the department head of photography and digital imaging at the Ringling College of Art and Design in Sarasota, Florida.

Village Pizzeria & Pub, join Siesta Key Lei, Crazy Russ and Friends for the Wednesday Night Jam from 8:30pm until 12:00am, 1812 South Osprey Avenue

FUTURE EVENTS

Friday, February 5th Thomas Carabasi’s opening reception is at Allyn Gallup Contemporary Art, 1419-B 5th Street from 6-9 PM. It will feature detailed landscapes from Bali and collaged urban street scenes from Europe and the United States.  www.thomascarabasi.com or the gallery at (941) 366-2093 www.allyngallup.com. see above for more info.

Thursday, Feb 4 Dancing Under the Stars Big Band Swing at the Ringling Museum of Art Courtyard with the Jerry White Band. $10 lawn $15 reserved. 358-3180 for reservations.

Thursday, Feb 4 Yappy Hour at the Ranch is a fund raiser for Nate’s Place Pet Adoption Facility at the Woof Gang Bakery, 8314 Market St., Lakewood Ranch. Wine Tasting and Appetizers. $5. Looking for a companion animal take a peek at this center which adopts out shelter animals

Friday, Feb 12 Vienna Boys Choir performs at the St. Thomas More Chelsea Center 7 pm at 2506 Gulf Gate Dr. 266-3942 Tickets are $60 or $100.

Monday, Mar 8 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel presents The Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon to benefit the F.A.I.T.H. (Families in Transitional Housing) program – a comprehensive program where homeless families can rebuild their lives from 11:30 to 1 pm. For more info go to www.wqmagonline.com  (correction from Feb 8 date as noted on the last rave)

.

WEBSITES TO CHECK OUT

www.wherewillwegotonight.com is an easy to navigate site that lets you know in a click what is happening that night musically by venue or by band.

www.robertbakst.com Robert Bakst site if you are looking for a therapist.

www.wqmag.com check out WQ magazine online, become a member and set up your own page.  Way cool.

www.sarasotamusicandbars.com Terry “Tbone” Rhodes site to find out the music and events around town. This is one busy guy in the music scene here.

www.ediblesarasota.com the newest magazine for sustainable food. Very nice format.

www.clothesline.bigcartel.com has the coolest t shirts with local artists doing the designing and printing

www.denisebetterchoices.com for customer service training, which is the first line of defense

www.cardzooey.com a business card directory

 

ESTABLISHMENT REVIEW

Went to the just opened “green” Holiday Inn behind the airport on Tuesday to hear WSLR DJ’s spin and have a drink and bite to eat. Good crowd showed up. Perette opened the event spinning international tunes then Norman took over. I must say I was liking the decor. It has an art deco feel with some great choices in furniture and colors. The outside patio with a fire pit and lots of seating is eco friendly as well. The bar is good size with a snappy bartender. We even met the chef. If they had a DJ on the weekends it might be able to draw a nice crowd as it has the feel of a hotel in Miami without the pool on the patio and the flowy drapes. The only two drawbacks I see is the location and the fact that it will probably draw more business travelers than tourists. It is worth checking out to see how fantastic green can be.

ILLUMINATING QUOTE OF THE WEEK:

Men want the same thing from their underwear that they want from women:  a little bit of support, and a little bit of freedom.  ~Jerry Seinfeld

Cocktails at the Ca d’ Zan 6-9 pm Yesterdayze is playing. $5 cover

New York New York every Thursday “Sexy in the City” ladies night at 4 pm in the Hillview area

Cerviche’s presents Los Listos playing at 5:30 pm downtown

Libby’s has a “Girls Night Out” on Thursdays at 8 pm in the Hillview area

FRIDAY, JAN 22

Sarasota Vineyard, 1528 Main St., presents guitarist Gary Ryley who performs blues and rock 8 pm. no cover

SATURDAY, JAN 23

Animals by Nature, Mango and 12th St. presents “Breakfestivus for the Pets & Us”: Enjoy a Buddha Belly donut, coffee or juice with us to raise funds and promote T.A.N.K.S. Rescue. They are dedicated to finding loving homes for senior and obese cats. 10 am to noon. “Pet Healings” with Martha Gilbert and Friends: Bring your pet or a picture for a healing.  Love donations accepted from 11 am to noon. “Tricks and Toones” with Suzette Wood. The class is full for participants and their dogs. 1 pm to 5 pm. We are still taking a few more reservations to “audit” the class. Call: 941-953-2983  They have hay for sale $12.50 a bale.

Guitar Sarasota with Gabriel Bianco, classical guitarist 7:30 pm. St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2256 Bahia Vista. Tickets $15/20. www.guitarsarasota.org

“Cocktails by the Book” fundraiser for the Selby Library includes cocktails, live music and an auction from 6:30-11 pm. $125 per person. www.selbylibraryfriend.com

Sarasota Masters Art Festival from 10 am to 5 pm downtown on South Palm Avenue featuring 80 local and national artists. Proceeds will benefit the Forty Carrots Family Center’s childhood and parent programs.

Big Mama’s Juke Joint Speakeasy is a fundraiser hosted by the Hub, 1421 Sixth St., 8 pm. for the Florida Winefest and Auction featuring a Prohibition era theme with a concert, private casino, and open bar. Tickets are $125 or $750 a table. Catered by Libby’s Cafe and Bar. 952-1109 or www.tinyurl.com/ydgxzrr

Melanie Massell and Hot Item play every Saturday from 9:30 to 1 am at the Ca d’ Zan Lounge located in the Ritz Carlton. She is a multi talented singer who can do everything from jazz to blues to rock and everything in between. This is her high energy dance band.

SUNDAY, JAN 24

2010 Boys and Girls Showhouse. Tour the homes and meet the designers. M-Sat 11am to 4 pm and Sunday 1-4 pm. For info call 926-7794 or www.designershowhousesarasota.com

Sailor Circus and Windjammers International Concert and Circus Arts Performance 1 pm PAL Sailor Circus Arena, 2075 Bahia Vista St. Free  www.sailorcircus.org

MONDAY, JAN 25

5 0’Clock Club jam every Monday at 9:30 pm.

TUESDAY, JAN 26

WSLR brings music to the Holiday Inn Sarasota-Bradenton Airport located at 8009 15th East (the old 301) next to the convention center.  This will be a WSLR happy hour social at the Sports Page Grill. There will be half priced drinks and appetizers. This is an Eco friendly hotel and the outside is set up much like the upstairs of Esca’s with a really cool fire pit!  The event is from 5-8 pm. So please join our friend and spin doctor, Perette Cannady, who will be spinning from 5-6:30 pm, for an evening of lush rhythms, cool grooves and great nibbles

Tea @ Lonjevi-Tea Cafe Every Tuesday Morning beginning this Tuesday, January 26, 2010, from 10:30-11:30 a.m., please join Genevieve Tomlinson, DOM, AP, who will be holding Tea Classes and Tastings at The Lounge at Lonjevity Cafe every Tuesday. Here you will learn about fine organic tisanes and how to properly infuse various types of teas. The new owner of Lonjevity Cafe is Barbara Wheatley and she will be creating a NEW Tea Menu for her patrons, consisting of loose-leaf, organic fair-trade teas from Asia.

WEDNESDAY, JAN 27

Village Pizzeria & Pub, join Siesta Key Lei, Crazy Russ and Friends for the Wednesday Night Jam from 8:30pm until 12:00am, 1812 South Osprey Avenue.

FUTURE EVENTS

Friday, January 29 CORK Upstairs Lounge 6-7:30PM “Cork’s A Time to Taste” $15 Wine Tasting , “Old versus New: You Be the Judge!” Your monthly opportunity to taste eight wines hand-picked by Cork’s wine specialist for their quality at an affordable price!  Attendees enjoy 20% OFF in the retail section and restaurant post-tasting, with only $5 CORKAGE on featured wines

Saturday, Jan 30 at Selby Gardens is opening its doors to the public at no charge from 10 am to 5 pm

Saturday, Jan 30 Women As Visionary Awards Event  8am – 5pm; Elaine Silver is an honoree, along with 12 other outrageous women. She would love you all to attend this awesome event. She will also be  performing some of her heart and soul music. $99 includes fabulous workshops, all materials, breakfast and a gourmet lunch; www.womenTCB.com; www.loreraymond.com  727/254-0342  or Lore@LoreRaymond.com.

Woody’s River Roo in Ellenton, Rocky Bluff – 5717 18th Street East features Melanie Massell and Hot Item from 2-6pm. This is a very cool little local spot on the water that is mostly outdoors and always has great music on weekends. www.woodysriverroo.com

Monday, Feb 8 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel presents The Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon to benefit the F.A.I.T.H. (Families in Transitional Housing) program – a comprehensive program where homeless families can rebuild their lives from 11:30 to 1 pm. For more info go to www.wqmagonline.com

 

  BUSINESS BUZZ

The New Holiday Inn a LEED certified hotel which is a certification providing independent, third-party verification that a building project meets the highest green building and performance measures. 8009 15th St. East, Sarasota, FL 34243,   941-358-3800  941-358-3800 . They are a supporter of WSLR radio station.

WSLR 96.5 is an innovative, listener-supported, non-profit, non-commercial FM radio station dedicated to serving the Sarasota community. WSLR features locally produced programming and presents cultural, artistic, and political perspectives currently underrepresented in the media. Our goal is to inform and empower listeners to play an active role in WSLR and in their community. WSLR’s programming promotes equality, peace, sustainability, democracy, and social and economic justice.

Lonjevity Cafe, 1737 South Tamiami Trail–Directly across the Sarasota Memorial Hospital  (941) 366-3139  (941) 366-3139 is a great place to spend an evening. They have created their own little niche on one side of the restaurant with cushy furniture and music and the food is healthy and delicious.  We had our birthdays there recently and everyone danced until well after midnight.     

 

ILLUMINATING QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Today through Jan 24 is the 94th Manatee County Fair. Go to www.manateecountyfair.com for details

Libby’s Cafe and Bar presents “Gals Night Out” at 8 pm featuring a DJ and drink specials. A regular happening.

New York, New York is hosting a “Sexy in the City” from 4-10 pm. Happens every Thursday.

Cerviche from 5:30 –8 pm Los Listos plays every Thursday to Sunday

FRIDAY, JAN 15

Meadows Village Pub, 5013 Ringwood Meadows. Lots of real blues with guests Johnny Guitar, Skofield, Beth the Velvet Hammer and Andrew LaCroix at 7 pm. no cover. www.kachinabluestar.com

Towles Court Art Walk from 6-10 pm

SATURDAY, JAN 16

Polo Grill at Lakewood Ranch Glass Onion, a Beatles tribute band, plays from 8:30 to 11:30 pm.

Racing Dog Rescue Project Adoption Center,  1801 Verna Rd, Sarasota, 941-371-8707  http://rdrp-greyhound.org is having an adoption day. I know a few people who have greyhounds and they are low key with sweet dispositions. Being bred for racing I  had the wrong impression that they were high strung but after spending time with a few of them I found it the opposite. If they are not perfect for racing when puppies or after they are raced to death, they usually destroy them.

Animals by Nature/Tree of Life Club hosts the Animal Services Clinic for low cost vaccinations and heart worm testing from 10 am to 11 pm. 1215 Mango Ave and 12th St.  www.animalbynature.com

SUNDAY, JAN 17

Stardust Event Center, 2571 12th St. hosts “The annual 30+ older old school skate party” from 8-11 pm. $12 covers roller skate rental.  www.stardusteventcenter.com 

MONDAY, JAN 18

St. Andrew Church presents “A Touch of Elegance” 3 Divas and a Harp. 6908 Beneva. Tickets $15, students $10. 922-7595

WEDNESDAY, JAN 20

Village Pizzeria & Pub, join Siesta Key Lei, Crazy Russ and Friends for the Wednesday Night Jam from 8:30pm until 12:00am, 1812 South Osprey Avenue

FUTURE EVENTS

Jan 21 and Feb 18 COCKTAILS AT THE CA D’ ZAN  6-9 pm. $5

Jan 23 at Guitar Sarasota with Gabriel Bianco, classical guitarist 7:30 pm. St. Paul Lutheran Church, 2256 Bahia Vista. Tickets $15/20. www.guitarsarasota.org

Jan 23 “Cocktails by the Book” fundraiser for the Selby Library includes cocktails, live music and an auction from 6:30-11 pm. $125 per person. www.selbylibraryfriend.com

Jan 24-Feb 21 is the 2010 Boys and Girls Showhouse. Tour the homes and meet the designers. M-Sat 11am to 4 pm and Sunday 1-4 pm. For info call 926-7794 or www.designershowhousesarasota.com

Jan 26 at Sporting News Grill in the new LEED Certified Holiday Inn located next to the convention center behind the airport is having a party from 5-8 pm with WSLR music programmer, Perette Cannady, who will be spinning world music by the fire pit. Come on down and support the hotel that has been supportive of the station.

Jan 30 at Selby Gardens is opening its doors to the public at no charge from 10 am to 5 pm

Feb 8 at the Ritz Carlton Hotel presents The Schoenbaum Humanitarian Award Luncheon to benefit the F.A.I.T.H. (Families in Transitional Housing) program – a comprehensive program where homeless families can rebuild their lives from 11:30 to 1 pm. For more info go to www.wqmagonline.com

BUSINESS BUZZ

Darlene Coleman is a neuro linguistics life coach who does spiritual coaching, clinical hypnosis and reiki. She can be reached at 941-400-6678 or by email at: ufeelbetter@gmail.com

I hear there is a new club in town called the Sarasota Dance Club. Will find out more info and let you know.

Decor Tile Design: 1668 Main Street, Sarasota, FL, 34236- 941-366-3366  Mon – Sat: 10:00 am – 5:00 pm. Check out their facebook page by typing in www.facebook.com/decortiledesign

Edible Sarasota, celebrating the Gulf Coast’s Food Culture, Season by Season is a new area magazine geared toward sharing the abundance of local foods  in the Sarasota and neighboring communities. They had their launch party at Whole Foods Friday night. I was looking through the magazine and found an article entitled “Worth the Trip, Cheap Thrills” by Andrea Daniels. It highlighted  places to get great food at a reasonable price and I just had to share a few with you. See Restaurant Reviews below. To subscribe go to www.ediblesarasota.com. $28 annually. 

 

 WEBSITES TO CHECK OUT:

www.wherewillwegotonight.com  is an easy to navigate site that lets you know in a click what is happening that night musically by venue or by band. You go Don.

www.robertbakst.com Robert Bakst site if you are looking for a therapist. We are friends so I can personally recommend him.

www.wqmag.com check out WQ magazine online, become a member and set up your own page.  Way cool.

www.sarasotamusicandbars.com Terry “Tbone” Rhodes site to find out the music and events around town. This is one busy guy in the music scene here.

RESTAURANT REVIEWS

Excerpts taken from Edible Sarasota by Andrea Daniels entitled “Cheap Thrills” who recommends the following places who are reasonably priced:

Maverick Coffee, 4615 S. Tamiami Trail, makes fresh to order crepes

Howlin’ Wolf, 6550 Gateway Avenue, big on breakfast and lunch

Spice Girls, 4141 S. Tamiami Trail, has the largest selection of teas in town plus a Tea Den to sit and enjoy your cup of tea. I have been there a few times and love the smells and the tea den. They have over 500 organic herbs and spices to choose from as well.

Shoogie Boogie, Garden Room Cafe in Towles Court which serves magical desserts and finger sandwiches.

Lan’s, located downtown at 1568 Main St. offers late night dining options with over a dozen choices under $12.

I am back for the New Year after taking a brief break for the holidays. My new website: ECOVOGUE365.COM will be live in February 2010 (it has taken us 6 months to get the site up) with a brand new format where my RUSSET’S RAVE will reside along with my 2 pledges, and my 3 collections plus pics and other goodies. Become a fan of our company on FACEBOOK at (www.facebook.com/byrusset) which will let you know updates and ongoing happenings before the website launches live on Feb 1. Follow us on TWITTER at www.twitter.com/byrusset

Thank you all for attending my “Winter Wonderland” Party on Dec 19th and making it the best party I have ever thrown. My estimation was about 200 people came thru the house that evening. All the guests were well behaved and polite. The variety of people that attended made up such an eclectic element along with the outdoor ambiance and indoor wonderland full of twinkling lights and candles.  Drummers showed up later in the evening with hulahoops and even a didgeridoo. The music was awesome and Brian had the big Yamaha speakers cranked up. The cops came at 1:30 instead of their usual midnight but we still partied on till around 4 am. I think I may do it again in May or early June.

THURSDAY, JAN 7

SIESTA KEY ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW  at Siesta Key Ball Field, 948 Beach Rd from 10 am to 4 pm.  508-737-0998

 

FRIDAY, JAN 8

MUSIC ON MAIN at Lakewood Ranch Main Street from 6-9 pm. Leased pets welcome. www.mainstreetatlakewoodranch.com

THUNDER BY THE BAY “Born to be Wild” kickoff party featuring the Greg Billings Band and Tucci located at Pal Sailor Circus starts at 7:30 pm and cost $15-20  www.thunderbythebay.org

SATURDAY, JAN 9

WELLNESS FESTIVAL 2010 live music, workshops, treatments, food, exhibits from 10 am to 4 pm at Edison Keith Mansion at Phillippi Estate Park.  Kettle of Fish and Hymn for Her plays from 4 – 8 pm. www.celebratingwellnessfest.com

SARASOTA ORCHID SOCIETY 53rd Annual Show and Sale from 9 am to 5 pm at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium.  $5 and free under age 8. www.sarasotaorchidsociety.org

THUNDER BY THE BAY Bikes, Bands and BBQ at Payne Park from 11:30 am to 5:30 pm. Food, drinks, bike demos and live music from Hangman Jury as well as Tribute Bands Highway to Hell and Nuttin Fancy.

 

SUNDAY, JAN 10

THUNDER BY THE BAY starts with an excursion at 9 am at Centennial Park. Then onto Five Points Park for the Downtown Festival and Bike Show beginning at 11 am along Main St. Features food, bike show, demonstrations, the Clydesdales and music by Bobby Friss Band, Tucci and Marc Anthony Roman. This festival raises money to help the Suncoast Charities for Children.

FUTURE EVENTS

ART CENTER OF SARASOTA, Jan 15 presents “Artists at Work” where dinner, libations and entertainment will be provided from 6-9 pm.  707 N. Tamiami Tr. $40 www.artsarasota.org

YAPPY HOUR AT THE RANCH, Feb 4th is a fund raiser for Nate’s Place Pet Adoption Facility at the Woof Gang Bakery, 8314 Market St., Lakewood Ranch. Wine Tasting and Appetizers. $5. Looking for a companion animal take a peek at this center which adopts out shelter animals.

Russet, Carone and Susan’s birthdays will be celebrated on Fri, Jan 15 at Lonjevity Cafe. Music, cake and lots of love.

COCKTAILS AT THE CA D’ ZAN Jan 21 from 6-9 pm. Yesterdayze is playing.

BUSINESS BUZZ 

ARTpool Vintage Boutique located at 919 1st Ave. N., St. Pete, FL, 727-324-3878.Owner, Marina Williams, store was selected as one of the top vintage shops in Creative Loafing 2009 Best of the Bay. It carries affordable, unique, and retro wares, as well as top designer names, local designers, costume rentals. Next time your are in St. Pete, check it out. 

Elite Repeat, 2300 Bee Ridge, is one of the best consignment stores in Sarasota. Mary Coker, owner and super stylist, has a little of everything and so affordable.

Samba, 1652 Main Street. Owner Kate Alton carries quality, classic, contemporary lines of solids that you can mix and match made by individual unique designers. You will not see yourself walking down the street in one of her garments.

HOLIDAY SWING IN THE COURTYARD at the Ca d’ Zan from 6:30-8:30 pm. The Bay Band performs your holiday favorites. $10 per person. Bring chairs and blankets. Food and beverages available.

HOLIDAY TOUR OF LIGHTS thru Dec 26 from 6:30 – 8:30 pm is offering two SF style trolleys to troll around the town looking at the holiday lights. $15

 

FRIDAY, DEC 11

MITCH CLARK plays at the Cabana Inn on 41 from 9:30 onward. Don’t let the reputation of the Cabana discourage you from checking this little jewel out. The dance floor is huge, the drinks cheap and when there is a band worth hearing, you gotta be there. I will be there as usual so join me and my many friends for some great rock and blues.

TANDOOR, fine Indian cuisine restaurant is having a fundraiser for All Faiths Food Bank on Dec 11 and 12 from 11:30 to 10 pm. Go out to eat and help support the local food bank.

FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH downtown presents The Singing Christmas Tree is an annual music and drama production written & directed by church members, and accompanied by an orchestra. The performance features a multi-story tree, adorned with our talented choir members. With the various musical pieces, the tree comes to life in an awe-inspiring light show. In addition, each year’s drama performance is new and spectacular, but with a special message. Fri at 7 pm, Sat at 3:30 and 6

SATURDAY, DEC 12

ATOMIC HOLIDAY BAZAAR, Saturday Night Show at 5:00 p.m. – 11:30 p.m. at the Municipal Auditorium.  18 and Over with a $7 Admission.  Atomic Holiday Bazaar’s first Saturday evening craft show will present 40 crafters who infuse their dark hearted creations with splashes of punk, dabs of rock and jabs of general tuffness. The evening’s entertainment includes burlesque performances by Moxie Le Femme and live music raining down upon the crowd like a foamy draft beer with rockabilly-punk rock by The Redliners, The Dead Popes and Viva Le Vox.  Cosimo’s Brick Oven. will be on hand selling small bites, beer and wine.  Two fashion shows produced by Doll Face, Inc., will showcase vintage clothing from Silly Rabbit Vintage and Vintage Stew in addition to a second fashion show featuring rock-a-licious costume design by Joanna Coblentz of Doll Face, Inc., and Adrien Lucas of Tuff Betty Bags.  If you keep your  ticket stub from Saturday night and wish to return on Sunday to shop with even more vendors, with your Sat. night ticket stub, admission is only $3.

PARADE OF BOATS on Sarasota Bay begins at 6 pm. Starting from City Island the boats will set a course across Sarasota Bay to Centennial Park then under the Ringling Bridge and coast along the shores of the Bayfront Park and Marina Jacks.

22ND ANNUAL WINTERFEST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS Holmes Beach City Hall Park, 5801 Marina Drive, Anna Maria from 10 am on both Saturday and Sunday. www.islandartleague.org

ARTS CENTER HOLIDAY EXPO, 707 N Tamiami Trail (in front of Van Wezel) from 10:00AM – 3:00PM  Admission is $3 for adults  (includes one door prize ticket) kids under 13 are free. Donate a can of food for All Faith Food Bank and receive an extra door prize ticket. Rescue dogs will be there available for adoption! Megaera and Patti will be selling their wares.

SUNDAY, DEC 13

ATOMIC HOLIDAY BAZAAR celebrates its fourth Sunday show on December 13, 2009, Noon- 6 p.m., All Ages Show, $5 Admission, Children 12 and under get in free. Sunday craft show features over 80 crafters who create amusing handmade DIY crafts.  Holiday shopping offerings include handbags, t-shirts, jewelry, body products, home décor, baby items, plushies, a smidge of art and even canned goods.  This is not your granny’s craft show!  Free cotton totes will be handed out by the Bradentucky Bomber roller derby team to the first 100 adults through the door.  Atomic totes are a local collectible and this year totes have been screened by locals Clothesline, the totes are filled with swag ala’ Atomic style with special offers from our vendors, zines, buttons, samples and more. 

FUNDRAISER put on by Poorhouse Productions and the Sarasota Roller Girls for a team member who lost everything in a fire. There will be live music, food and prizes. Starts at 3-10 pm at the Paddy Wagon Irish Pub, 6586 Gateway Ave, in Gulftgate. $5 donation

MONDAY, DEC 14

“HOLIDAY OF SONG 2009″ features an evening of seasonal music and story in the folk tradition celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah and the Winter season at 7:30 p.m. at the Sarasota Sailing Squadron; Presented by the Sarasota Folk Club; Also performing: Mindy Simmons, Bill Schustik, Ishmael Katz, Something Special, Hot Pockets and Irish Cream; www.sarafolk.org/holiday2009.htm.le

NEW YORK, NEW YORK hosts the Big Apple Bash. Free Hor D’oeuvres, music and Big Apple Martini free to the first 100 people. RSVP 955-6969

SARASOTA FILM AND ENTERTAINMENT HOLIDAY MIXER. Mix and mingle and network with a broad variety of people in many creative fields — film, television, video, multimedia, music, literature, fine arts, electronic arts/animation, and more! Hear a dynamic panel of indie filmmakers discuss their ups and downs, methods and successes; enjoy delicious hors d’oeuvres, have chances to win door prizes, and be seen/get known. Cash bar available. RSVP NOW! www.filmsarasota.com or call Tina 309-1200 ext 104.

 

WEDNESDAY, DEC 16

MI PUEBLO is celebrating its 10th anniversary called Celebration Fiesta at all three locations. Come and have dinner and continue the fiesta at the University Walk location from 10-2 am for a dance party. no cover. See coupon in Ticket. They also have a raw food menu.

FUTURE EVENTS

COCKTAILS AT THE CA D’ ZAN on Dec 17, Jan 21 and Feb 18. Koko Ray is playing Dec 17. 6-9 pm. $5

GREATEST LITTLE SHOW ON EARTH at the Pal Sailor Circus Arena Dec 27 at 2 pm and Dec 27, 28, 29, 30 at 7 pm at 2075 Bahia Vista St. performed by dedicated and talented students in the Sarasota area.

WEBSITES TO CONSIDER

NORMEN SCHINDOWKSI, Sound Healer & Massage Therapist, www.throughfrequency.com. Norman offers massage, sound healing, toning classes at no charge.  Class is on Sunday 10:30 to noon and Monday 7-8:30 pm. Donations are welcome, yet only if your abun-(dance) can afford it. By any means please come and enjoy the power of your own voice.  Normen1@comcast.net  or Tel: 941 726 3262. Check out the website to get more details.

www.wherewillwegotonight.com Don McKeon’s website for all the music happenings in the area.

www.denisebetterchoices.com Denise Blondo’s site for customer service training

www.cardzooey.com Joy Leitner’s site for business card service

www.robertbakst.com Robert Bakst’s site for therapy

www.sarasotamusicandbars.com Terry “T Bone” Rhode’s site for local news, entertainment and music

www.wqmag.com

 

BUSINESS BUZZ

CLOTHESLINE , 533 Pineapple St. Check it out for great t shirts by local artists. www.clothesline.bigcartel.com

ROSEMARY RISING HOLIDAY WALK, from 5-9 pm in the Rosemary District on Central Ave features a fashion show, live screen printing,  open house and demos from the neighborhood boutiques, salons, restaurants, live music, and an after party dubbed the “Green Screen Party” beginning at 9 pm at The Hub, 1421 Blvd. of the Arts. For more info visit www.facebook.com/rosemaryrising

NEW YORK NEW YORK every Thursday features “Sexy in the City” Ladies Night Out from 4-10 pm featuring drink specials located in the Hillview District.

FESTIVAL OF TREES, at the Crosley Estate, Dec 2-9 from 11-8 pm. One Seagate Drive off US 41, south of the new USF campus or 8374 N. Tamiami Tr 34243 for GPS users. Admission is $8 and children under 12 free. See $1 off coupon in the Ticket.

THE IRISH ROVER every Thurs 8 to 10:30.  Sandi Grecco, Bert Englesman, Sydney Wingfield, Paul Duffy.  It’s not a jam or open mic, but “sitting in” occurs regularly.  For the second set, at 9:30, three drummers-ages 9, 15, and 86-play a tune each.  The Irish Rover is located in the Gulf Gate area.

FRIDAY, DEC 4

MUSIC ON MAIN from 6-9 pm at 8131 Lakewood Main St, Lakewood Ranch featuring “Big Night Out” performs Latin, Caribbean and Motown.

AMERICAN CRAFT SHOW, Dec 4,5,6 at the Sarasota Bradenton Convention Center 10-6 pm on Fri and Sat and 10-4 pm on Sun.

HOLIDAY PARADISE AT VILLAGE OF THE ARTS, 6-9:30 pm, 12th St. W & 13th Ave. W. Bradenton. Go to  http://www.facebook.com/n/?event.php&eid=202207247168&mid=181e2a5G41687902G1187229G7 for more info or go to www.wqmagonline.com

SICILY UNDER THE STARS….Chef Gaetano Cannata of the Ortygia Restaurant invites you to a spectacular evening of phenomenal Sicilian Creations in a romantic patio setting…Feast on popular Italian songs by world class tenor, Joseph Spinella ,back again from the Metropolitan Opera from 6:30 –10 pm. Call: 941-741-8646. 1418 13^th St W / Bradenton.

“A VERY SLAMBOVIAN CHRISTMAS” WITH Gandalf Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams presented by WSLR-LP 96.5 at 8:30pm.  Gandalf Murphy and the Slambovian Circus of Dreams will perform their first Christmas show of the season in benefit for WSLR-LP 96.5, Sarasota’s Community Radio Station at Holley Hall in the Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center. In 1998 The Circus emerged from the misty hills of Sleepy Hollow, New York and exploded upon the Hudson Valley music scene with their stunning self-produced debut release, “A Good Thief Tips His Hat”. The quirky quartet then began touring throughout the northeast and rapidly developed a fiercely loyal, all-ages following. The band’s charismatic live performances and whimsical blend of folk, rock, hillbilly and pop have simply captivated audiences and critics alike.  Tickets are $20. Tickets are available at Fogt’s Music, Rocketman, Sarasota Emporium or online at www.wslr.org. Check it out at www.slombovia.com

 

SATURDAY, DEC 5

ROCK THE YACHT PARTY at Marina Jack’s deck. DJ Shambala, Xrys Santhos, Maycol Benett, Joe Bond and DSP spin the best high energy dance beats. $25 includes drink specials, free appetizers, and give a ways.

SIESTA KEY HOLIDAY ARTS AND CRAFTS SHOW at the tennis courts on Beach Road from 10-4:30 pm. Both Saturday and Sunday.

FAERIE ELAINE at the Radiance of Sarasota, 10am service with Rev. Jim Toole; Be uplifted and renewed at their NEW Location: 2868 Ringling Blvd; near Richard’s Whole Foods; 941/927-6797; www.RadianceofSarasota.com.

SUNDAY, DEC 6

THE GHOSTS OF CHANUKKAH PAST AND CHRISTMAS PRESENT, at 4 pm is a holiday music extravaganza featuring soprano, Joy Leitner and tenor, Joseph Spinella. Longboat Key Education Center, 5370 Gulf of Mexico Dr. $20 includes show and reception. RSVP. Contact Susan at the Center—920-2967 or 383-8311

 TUESDAY, DEC 8

 IVORY LOUNGE  presents “Jazz-2-Blues Tuesdays” featuring free swing dance and fox trot lessons beginning at 5 pm.

BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION SOCIAL HOUR at Broadway Bar and Grill, 1001 Coconut Ave, 10th and Coconut from 5:30-6:30 pm. Doors open for the Broadway Grill at 7 pm. where  KATT, KENNY DREW JR, RICHARD DREXLER, JOHN JENKINS AND SPECIAL GUESTS will play. Come early and help celebrate the birthdays of Katt Hefner, renowned jazz singer and Tom Carabasi, drummer extraordinare and then onto hear the band. $10 cover.

.

WEDNESDAY, DEC 9

Join Siesta Key Lei, Crazy Russ and Friends for the Wednesday Night Jam at Village Pizza 8:30pm until 12:00am, 1812 South Osprey Avenue (941) 365-2998

FUTURE HAPPENINGS

ATOMIC BAZAAR Saturday and Sunday Dec 11 and 12 at the Sarasota Municipal Auditorium. www.atomicholidaybazaar.com

COCKTAILS AT THE CA D’ ZAN on Dec 17, Jan 21 and Feb 18. Koko Ray is playing Dec 17. 6-9 pm. $5

GREATEST LITTLE SHOW ON EARTH at the Pal Sailor Circus Arena Dec 27 at 2 pm and Dec 27, 28, 29, 30 at 7 pm at 2075 Bahia Vista St. performed by dedicated and talented students in the Sarasota area.