Summer is slow here on the Gulf Coast especially in August. But for those of us who are here this month, take the time to share your space and energy with friends. Love yourself, do not judge yourself, hold value in yourself, make your intentions specific and be still and allow contentment to come to you. That’s my mantra for now. This is a little late this week as I have been slammed.

THURSDAY

Radio-Free Carmela and the Transmitters! are in the running for this GREAT opportunity! To play at an exclusive Showcase during the Americana Music Festival in September. We need you, your friends and family to help push us up the list. Radio-Free Carmela & The Transmitters are list second from the bottom on the voting page- We are encouraging you to vote from any computer you can get your hands on, your blackberry, iphone, ipad or web enabled mobile device and smart phones. Please try and vote everyday as it ends on Aug 23. I will send out another reminder at a later date.
www.thealternateroot.com

CLICK HERE TO VOTE NOW!

FRIDAY

Towles Court 3rd Friday Art Walk–Jon Greeley’s “Art for Gulf Restoration” benefit and fund-raising event during , 6-10pm. 17 great local artists, 31 pieces that celebrate Gulf lifestyle, wildlife and habitat, the way we want it. Portion of art sales and donations for food, drink and t-shirts goes to IMMS, Gulfport, MS.

Join Butterfly Effect as they explore the stunning art of Erin Johnson. Libations, chocolate from Divinia Jeanne’s Chocolate Heaven and a groovy soundtrack will pave the way for a a great Friday evening. Ten percent of all art and Butterfly Effect sales will be donated to Save Our Seabirds (SOS) and a representative of this wonderful local not-for-profit will be here to talk about the important work SOS does for our ecology and our community. 451 North Orange Ave., 941-552-6728

Dance Party this Friday and Tuesday at 7:30 pm at the Golden Apple Theater, 25 N. Pineapple Ave. Music by Sarasota Gold and the Florida Blues Brothers. $10 cover. 366-5454 or www.thegoldenapple.com

Finally Friday Street Party from 5-10 pm on Main Street at Lakewood Ranch. www.lwrmainstreet.com

Gong Meditation–1st and 3rd Fridays of each month at Ono Chi Studio from 6-7 pm, 529 S. Pineapple St.  2nd Friday of each month Prana Yoga Studio from 6-7 pm, 3840 Osprey Ave. Facilitated by Joy Yackley and/or John Laplante.

SATURDAY

Players Theatre is hosting a free open house with refreshments and a chance to register for classes from 10 am to 1 pm. Then at 7 pm its the Talent Explosion Finale  (kinda like America’s Got Talent) where local performers compete judged by local celebrities. $12 adults, $8 students. 838 N. Tamiami Tr. 365-2494

Join the Sarasota Film Society for its annual LGBT Film Festival at Burns Court Cinema. This year’s films include: Purple Sea, The Mormon Proposition, Violet Tendencies, On These Shoulders We Stand, Eyes Wide Open and A Marine Story. The opening night event will be held at Station 400 from 10pm to 1am on August 21. Burns Court Cinemas, 506 Burns Lane, Sarasota, 941-955-3456.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

Katherine Woodward presents Salsa classes at EVOLUTION Fitness Club, 1990 Main St. second floor, Sarasota.  Enter from Ringling Blvd. Parking Garage always Free. 941 951 0759– email: www.balancebodyspirit@comcast.net for further information. Group classes Monday nights, 8:00pm to 9:00 pm, $13.00 (no partner necessary)

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

FUTURE EVENTS

Sassy Hair on Siesta Key Presents Cuts, Mutts, & Models Cut A Thon Fund Raiser For Sarasota In Defense of Animals Sunday, September 5th 10:00am – 4:00pm All Salon Services-Chinese Auction-Food-Drinks Mutts & Models Fashion Show by Foxy Lady 3:30pm All Proceeds go to Sarasota In Defense of Animals.  Earn Discounted Salon Services by bringing in Animal Food and Gift Cards from local Pet Stores . Please make checks payable to Sarasota In Defense of Animals

Ringling International Arts Festival Oct 13-17. www.ringlingartsfestival.org or 360-7399

Humane Society of Sarasota County is having a Ron Gordan Charity Golf Tournament Sept 25 from 7-2 pm at the Bent Tree Golf and Country Club. $85 fee includes continental breakfast, practice balls, golf cart, beverages and snacks during play, awards luncheon with trophies. email nuts4golf@verizon.net or call Ron at 266-0526

The SRQ Hot List Party on Oct 9 from 8-1 pm, will transform the historic Sarasota Municipal Auditorium with musical performances, dance, fashion, fabulous culinary creations and luscious cocktails. Enjoy a night of entertainment, bites and imbibes. Food and cocktails included in ticket price. Tickets, $55. Tickets on sale online. Sarasota Municipal Auditorium, 801 North Tamiami Trail, 941-365-7702 x 204.

S/ART/Q presents the second print party located at the HUB 1421 Boulevard of the Arts. The event will take place on Saturday, September 11, 2010 from 5:00pm – 10:00pm. Bring $5 per print and something to print on! Articles of clothing, sheets, bags, almost anything can get printed by one of the SARTQ Artists with the images of your choice all custom made by the artists themselves.

ANIMAL NEWS

Here are two animal non profits that need help if they are to survive. Each one of us in our own little way can do something to help. And if you know of anyone who is willing to do an event for them let me know.

SDA is Sarasota in Defense of Animals. There was a front page article about them in the Herald recently. They have a 10 acre ranch that cares for all creatures no one wants and will have to shut its doors in two or three months due to lack of contributions of key donors. It costs $10,000 a month to care for these 385 animals. Go thru your stuff and find the CD’s and DVD’s and books in good condition that can be resold and drop them off at 2858 West Rainbow Circle, Sarasota, FL 34231…..just leave at front door.

Also pass this onto others. The volunteers at SDA will collect them and sell them at online and local venues to raise money. Also you can make a contribution at www.sdasarasota.com or by mail to SDA, P. O. Box 15653, Sarasota, FL 34277-1653.

Napier’s Log Cabin Horse & Animal Sanctuary needs to fence new land for its 10 horses and build a well for water which will costs $6000. They can use fencing, roofing materials, animal food and other pet/livestock related items, plus Walmart gift cards and cash donations. www.napierfamilyfarm.com or at any Bank of America branch under Horse & Animal Sanctuary fundraiser account.

Three Jack Russell Terriers need homes due to owners death. Call IRIS HARRILL 941-928-6634 http://intrinsicfitness@juno.com/ Please pass this on to others who might want to adopt them.

They are Seaweed. He is an 11 year old male. Not neutered – but has given up chasing girls. (He still likes to sniff though). He is an extremely good-natured dog and is happy to rest most of the day in a climate controlled environment and take frequent walks. He also enjoys going into the yard and sniffing about for geckos. He loves attention, car-rides, treats (although I advise against too many), he loves having a routine, and someone to look after him. He is a great companion. He is used to having time to catch geckos (he believes that is his “job”). He is terrified of thunderstorms, so a quiet secure place for him is mandatory should thunder & lightning arise. He also comes with his very own “Thundershirt” which helps him stay calm during such events. (It really works!)

Snatchit. He is a 1yr old neutered male JRT.  He is a little spiritual love. He is very intuitive, gentle, intelligent, adventurous, and well behaved. He loves to go for car rides, walks, runs on the beach, play with the hose spray (especially on hot days) and also is an exceptional snuggler. He possesses just enough JRT-independence to be very entertaining but still be a willing and capable companion! He gets along very well with his brother and Dad, but would be challenged with other pets at first.  His job is to instigate the hunt, watching for hours for the squirrel to emerge from the trees. He is a very good and confident hunter! Cats may prove to be an unjust situation for him because he was raised with his mom and dad who believe cats are “bad guys” and he has never been in a situation where he could argue that logic.

Shooter Joe. He is also a neutered male JRT. He takes after the “Parsons” terrier line. His legs and body are longer and his head is nicely balanced. He is an incredibly good natured soul. He is always ready to please and would be an exceptional companion for anyone who loves to spend time and play with their pet. He is not as much a snuggler as Snatchit, but we are working on that. He LOVES water and playing with the hose, he can chase the water spray for hours and never tire of the frolic. It is his passion. His job is to be as entertaining as possible and to investigate everything (especially if it’s in the kitchen!). He is so intelligent and well behaved but he is also on the introverted side for a Jack Russell. This is changing as he gets older and more confident of his place in the world. With his brother, he holds his own but usually will not be the first to challenge. (But he will bait, just to see what happens and create a little intrigue.)

I love to read and hear about all those small companies started by people with a vsion and little else. It inspires me which in turn inspires others. If you have ever thought of doing your own thing, join the ranks of people who are finding a way to do it. Don’t let excuses keep you from it. Have a vision. Start small and grow steadily. Find like minded people. Share and collaborate. Think outside the box.  Surround yourself with supportive and positive people. Get business smart by finding sites that inform. Love yourself and believe in yourself every day, be grateful for all you have and never be fearful of what is around the next bend. It is a journey after all.

Go to these sites to get the latest on happenings around town:

www.wherewillwegotonight.com

www.creativeloafing.com

www.sarasotamusicandbars.com

www.sarasotamusicscene.com

THURSDAY

A new roundabout in the heart of downtown Sarasota is open to traffic, according to Sarasota City officials, and local merchants are celebrating. The Downtown Sarasota Alliance is asking merchants to gather together at 5pm today to mark the occasion.

Vin Lamar will be performing at Simons Coffeehouse tonite and Thursday September 2nd starting at 6pm.

Bob Salyers will be speaking on composition and what makes images have impact. All photographers welcome. 7:00 p.m. H2U Center 6049 26th Street, Bradenton, FL Join Our Mailing List! Bob Salyers Photography 4111 34th Street E

FRIDAY

The Loretta James Band! Cortez Clam Factory, 10104 Cortez Road West, Bradenton starts at 8 pm to midnight.

Vin Lamar will be performing at Zaccini’s for open mike night starting at 8pm.

SATURDAY

Celebration Of Brewing, August 14, 4-7pm–Morton’s Annual Celebration of Brewing will offer samples of a wide selection of brews from around the world as well as beer-friendly cuisine. There will be “grillin & chillin” with Morton’s chefs as well as cooking demos, live entertainment and a charity raffle. Tickets are be $20 in advance, $25 at the door. Morton’s Gourmet Market, 1924 South Osprey Avenue, Sarasota, (941) 955-9856.

Cabana Inn & Lounge is getting B.A.C.K., that is Bikers Against Cop Killers, to rev up their engines and hit the road for the Fallen Heroes Poker Run this Saturday. Proceeds from this procession of steel are going to benefit the widows and families of Officers David Curtis and Jeffrey Kocab of the Tampa Police Department, who were shot and killed during a traffic stop on June 29. The route includes stops at American Legion Lockwood Ridge Post #30, American Legion Venice Avenue Post #159, Will’s Honky Tonk and then back to Cabana for the big party. With live music by Smokin’ Bones, a massive barbeque, and 50/50, prize and food raffles, there will be plenty of reasons to cough up some cash for two of Tampa’s finest. Sign in 10:30 a.m., kickstands up 11:30 a.m. Sat., Aug. 14, Cabana Inn & Lounge, 2525 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 955-0195, $10 per poker hand.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

All Fuller and his Jam Session 5 0’Clock Club 8:30  pm.

TUESDAY

Sarasota Power Town Hall Meeting , August 17, 2010 from 7-9pm First Congregational UCC Sarasota 1031 South Euclid Avenue. It will be an informal forum for the public to ask questions of a panel of experts regarding the issue of how we get our electricity and what the options will be for the city of Sarasota to signing another 30 year agreement with FPL. This is an extension to the one held by the city commissioners at city hall in June. We want to build on that platform and allow the public more interaction and open the floor for more discussion. It is our intention to allow the public to take lead in this issue and help educate everyone in all of the options

WEDNESDAY

FUTURE EVENTS

“Art for Gulf Restoration,” scheduled to begin at this month’s 3rd Friday Towles Court Art Walk, August 20, 6-10pM

On Friday August 20th Coleman’s Tavern, 5305 Fruitville Road, is throwing a summer bash with Box Elder playing live. There is going to be a raffle with all proceeds going to Maggie Edwards a single mom in Sarasota who is in need of a kidney transplant. She is on dialysis 3-4 times a week and is unable to work anymore. Please come out and show your support!

Nik Walenda, famous high wire performer will perform a 75 ft. high wire act on St. Armands Aug 20 6 pm. It will be filmed by the Discovery Channel for an upcoming special on his life.

WSLR RADIO’s new shows on 95.5 include:

THE ROCK SHOW – Alt. Mondays 11pm-1am. The Rock Show spotlights Sarasota area Rock N’ Roll bands, arts and entertainment with a focus on upcoming concerts, shows, events, album releases and media functions. www.therockshow.fm
BLUES COUNTRY – Alt. Saturdays 5-7pm. Get ready to enjoy a great groovin’ blues show.  Learn why blues music “makes you feel good when you are feelin’ bad” (Jerry Wexler/Atlantic Records) Listen in and enjoy great blues songs from great musicians and singer/songwriters, new blues and outstanding local musicians from the Gulfcoast. You will also hear country Blues from Hank Williams, Jr., Marshall Tucker Band, and blues from the Charlie Daniels Band., Jason Aldean, and others.  Email Jerry Ross for blues on radio: BLUESFLA@gmail.com.
DJ COOLEY’S RAINBOW RADIO – Sundays 1-3am
This show features a mixed bag of electronica, pop, dance, rock and mashups and offers a musical nod to the GLBT community and the people who love them.

Parkland Art Boutique & Gallery Art Show & Poetry Reading currently through September 30. Opening reception First Friday September 3 with Wine & Cheese 6-9 pm. 506 South Pineapple Ave. Sarasota, FL 34236  941-366-1649. Follow us on facebook-Parkland Art Gallery. Poets presenting work will be Debra Gingerich, Kevin Costello, Tom Lennox and yours truly Kevin Greeland.

Westfield Southgate is proud to announce that it has partnered with SuncoastJobs.com and will host the SuncoastJobs.com Career Fair on August 31, 2010, from 8am-Noon in its dining court. Hundreds of job seekers will have the opportunity to connect with over 40 employers that currently have open positions. The employers represent a wide variety of industries (such as healthcare, technology, finance, sales, and retail) and include Sarasota Memorial Healthcare System, City of Sarasota, Comcast Cable, Northwestern Mutual, Prudential Financial, Aerotek, Manasota Insurance Professionals, HH Staffing Services, Protocol Global Communications, Chico’s, and Soma Intimates, among others. To date, there are 324 jobs posted on SuncoastJobs.com. 176 of those jobs are based in Sarasota while 123 are based in Bradenton.

RESTAURANT REVIEWS AND NEWS

Pacific Rim: Order the Texas Roll at Pacific Rim, a selection that is as non-traditional as it is delicious. When it arrives on the table, it barely resembles the standard rice-wrapped maki roll. Instead of rice, the Texas Roll is wrapped in a tempura-style spring roll, which is stuffed with spicy tuna, crabstick, avocado, scallions and cream cheese. Although cream cheese is not typical of conventional sushi, its tart taste and smooth texture go along nicely with the sweet and spicy sauce. Smearing the sauce onto the roll gives a sweet and savory flavor that’s similar to another Asian fusion favorite, fried crab rangoon. “SRQ Daily”

The Melting Pot is a little gem tucked away on top of Evie’s Tavern on Ringling. They have an extensive menu of dinner and dessert fondue. Andre, our friend, works evenings there. Be sure and say hello from us.

BUSINESS BUZZ

Restyled Rags, the unique boutique of the Women’s Resource Center (WRC) of Manatee, has a brand new look. The “hidden gem of Downtown” has been renovated and redecorated and is now an elegant boutique with a Parisian feel. The store is filled with hand-selected, gently-worn clothes and accessories, donated by generous women in the Bradenton/Sarasota area. The sales generated by the boutique support the many programs of the WRC.

ANIMAL NEWS

SDA is Sarasota in Defense of Animals. There was a front page article about them in the Herald recently. They have a 10 acre ranch that cares for all creatures no one wants and will have to shut its doors in two or three months due to lack of contributions of key donors. It costs $10,000 a month to care for these 385 animals. Go thru your stuff and find the CD’s and DVD’s and books in good condition that can be resold and bring them to Petsmart this Sunday, August 1 between 11:15 and 3:15 pm. If you cannot get to Petsmart drop them off at 2858 West Rainbow Circle, Sarasota, FL 34231…..just leave at front door.

And if you know of anyone who is willing to do an event for them let me know. Also pass this onto others. The volunteers at SDA will collect them and sell them at online and local venues to raise money. Also you can make a contribution at www.sdasarasota.com or by mail to SDA, P. O. Box 15653, Sarasota, FL 34277-1653.

Napier’s Log Cabin Horse & Animal Sanctuary needs to fence new land for its 10 horses and build a well for water which will costs $6000. They can use fencing, roofing materials, animal food and other pet/livestock related items, plus Walmart gift cards and cash donations. www.napierfamilyfarm.com or at any Bank of America branch under Horse & Animal Sanctuary fundraiser account.

Be sure and check out Terry “Tbone” Rhodes site, musician, promoter and founder of www.sarasotamusicandbars.com, Don McKeon’s, businessman extraordinaire’s www.wherewillwegotonight.com, and Chris Falk’s www.sarasotamusicscene.com. All these give good info on what is happening in town at a glance. Then there is always the online sites such as Creative Loafing, Anything Arts Newsletter, My Suncoast, WSLR, Encounter Sarasota, WQ Magazine, SRQ, The Herald and the list goes on.

THURSDAY

Vinyl Festival starts today thru Saturday. Go to www.vinylfestival.com for schedules and tickets. Don’t let the type of music(that is music you are not really familiar with or did not grow up with) detour you from going to at least one event. This is not just for the young any longer. There is such an eclectic array of DJ’s, from NY City, Las Vegas, San Diego, Orlando, Tampa, Miami, Ft. Meyers and of course Sarasota County. There will be something for everyone. Electronic music can be fun, exciting and takes real talent to pull it off. These DJ’s are artists and to have this opportunity to showcase their art in this community is fabulous. Thank the HuB for that. Yamaha, Nexo and Tight AV are sponsors this year and providing all the sound systems in most of the events and that is going bring a whole new level of listening pleasure. I am covering the event for Yamaha this year so hope to see some of you out and about.

FRIDAY

Rosemary Rising Event coincides with the Vinyl Festival offering an urban block party from 3-7 pm with four DJ stations sprinkled throughout the district. Nancy’s BBQ and The Hukalua Hut (shaved ice) will serve food and libations. Free

St. Pete Times Forum’s Community Friendly Friday is having a benefit for the wildlife affected by the oil spill by asking people to bring dish soap, baby wipes, and pepto bismol to the St. Pete Forum box office. Donors will receive a voucher redeemable for four tickets to a Tampa Bay Storm home game. 401 Channel Drive, Tampa. www.sptimesforum.com

Friday Fest on the Bay from 5-9 pm at the Van Wezel features Black Swamp Gypsies. Free

Sarasota Improv Festival at the Florida Studio Theatre, 1241 N. Palm Ave, both Friday and Saturday. www.floridastudiotheatre.org for more details

Towles Court Art Walk from 6-10 pm. Adams Lane and Morrill St.

The Vinyl Music Fest continues

SATURDAY

Happy Birthday Snooty, the world’s most famous manatee is turning 62 and the South Florida Museum is throwing him a party and a wildlife awareness festival from 10 to 2 pm in the Museum’s Spanish  Plaza, 201 10th St. West. www.southfloridamuseum.org for more info.

Shift Change plays at Bacalao’s on Tuttle where Gregory Fischer, Siesta Key Lei and the guys play from 8-10 pm

The Vinyl Music Fest continues

SUNDAY

MONDAY

5 0’ Jam Session with Al Fuller starts at 8:30 pm

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Open Jam with Siesta Key Lei and Musical Friends at Blaise Cafe on Siesta Key from 7-11 pm.

BUSINESS BUZZ

Influence Boutique featured in Cosmo was credited and acknowledged in the August issue of Cosmopolitan Magazine. The boutique was credits in a piece entitled “The Sexiest Jeans for Your Body” for the Made in Heaven Madrid Trouser, a denim line based out of London. Influence Boutique opened in Sarasota in February and is located on St. Armand’s Circle

Daisy Cotton, 3847 S. School Ave. and Shade behind Southgate Mall. They are having a sale now and have 100% cotton one of a kind clothing.

www.ecovogue365.com has lots of butterfli tubes available. A convertible, sustainable garment that can be worn 20 ways. We are working on a video for the site to explain how you can do that. Breaks down to about $6 a garment. My Bobo collection on the site has June and July’s designs up. Lots of little tanks with sheer backs. Working on getting our little black tube up.

RESTAUTANT REVIEWS AND NEWS

Gulf Gate has lots of good eateries. Here are a few: Veg, 2164 Gulf Gate Dr. www.vegsrq.com 312-6424 has vegetarian and vegan menus. Zest Catering and Cafe, 6584 Superior Ave, www.zestofsarasota.com 924-3535 has meat, seafood and vegan menus.

The Hukilau Hut, 2253 Bee Ridge features Hawaiian shaved ice, coffee bar, boutique ice creams, and signature sandwiches. www.hukilauhut.com 925-0400

RECIPE OF THE WEEK

Milk & Honey Hair Smoothie (for you guys as well because hair is hair)

• 1 can of pure coconut milk (rich moisturize—hydrates, conditions and defrizzes hair)
• 1 ripe avocado (natural source of protein—chlorine robs the hair of protein)
• 2 tablespoons of pure honey (conditions and adds sheen)
• 2 tablespoons of olive oil (hydrophobic oil that acts as a barrier to chlorine and salt water)

Add ingredients to blender. Mix at high speed until your concoction reaches a smoothie consistency.

Store in refrigerator for up to 2 weeks. You can warm up your hair smoothie in the microwave before next application. Just enough do de-chill. Part hair into sections, slather it on, and then put  in heating cap or wrap in a cotton dish towel (they make the best towels for curly hair as it does not ruffle up the curticle like a regular or micro fiber towel does) for an hour or all day.

THURSDAY’S KWOTE

“Ego identification with things (a basic level of identification) create attachment to things, obsession with things, which in turn creates our consumer society and economic structures where the only measure of  progress is always more. The unchecked striving for endless growth is a dysfunction. Some economists are so attached to the notion of growth that they cannot let go of that word, so they refer to recession as a time of negative growth. Is your sense of self worth bound up with things you possess? You can value and care for things but whenever you get attached to them you will know its the ego. You are never really attached to a thing but to a thought that has ‘I’, ‘me’, or ‘mine’ in it. Sometimes letting things go is an act of far greater power than defending or hanging on.”

Eckart Tolle, A New Earth Awakening to Your Life’s Purpose

Be sure and check out our new eco fashion Blog on www.ecovogue365.com Jerah writes it and I read it. She will also be writing for several other online publications in the coming months. You can also access my RAVE as well under the Blog heading.  We are brainstorming, flexing, researching, networking all the time as we grow our little business. If you have an event you want to promote send me an email at info@byrusset.com.  Hang in there for the long hot summer because when winter comes, and everyone else is freezing, we won’t. Ha! Ha! ya all.

THURSDAY

Mote Aquarium is having a Service Industry Summer where anyone working in the industry can go thru the aquarium for $5 from July 1 to Sept 30.

FRIDAY

Fuzión Dance Artists Grooves and Summer Brews Festival at Whole Foods Market on First Street. A fun charity event benefiting Fuzión Dance Artists (501 c 3 non-profit organization) 2010-2011 Season with live music by Democracy, interactive dance lesson by Fuzión, and beer tasting. The fun begins at 6:00 pm and only $10 per person. For more info: Nikki Heil, 941-955-8500 x215.

Blu Smoke Island Grill presents Melanie Massell and Hot Item from 6-10 pm. Located on Siesta Key at 149 Avenida Messina (941) 346-0738 http://blusmokeislandgrill.com/siesta-key-location/ Smokin’ hot party band and you can sit indoors or outdoors.

SATURDAY

Simon’s Coffee House & Isle of Avalon presents:  Angel Readings With Intuitive Wendy Elwell from 5 – 8 PM  $15 for 15 minutes.   5900 South Tamiami Trail | (941) 922-2500. You can also order online breakfasts and lunches.

Shift Change rocks out with Siesta Key Lei and Gregory Fischer and friends at Bacalao’s, 1100 N. Tuttle, from 7:30 to 10:30 pm.

SUNDAY

MONDAY

5 O’ Clock Club presents the Monday Night Al Fuller Jam 8:30 pm.

TUESDAY

Art Center Sarasota is inviting member artists to submit work to an all media juried exhibition titled Outside Looking In. Outside – looking in is what every artist does best. Members are encouraged to submit their very best work as there will be no guarantees that one piece will get in to the show. Only 150 pieces will be accepted. Five awards will be presented: $500 first place, $300 second place, $200 third place, Merit Award winner will receive a gift certificate and a number of honorable mentions will be selected. This exhibition showcases (July 29 – October 23) to the community the exceptional talent and creativity alive at Art Center Sarasota. Receiving is Tuesday, July 13, 2010 from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm. 941-365-2032

WEDNESDAY

Siesta Key Lei and friends play at Blaise Cafe from 7-11 pm on Ocean Blvd on the Key.

FUTURE EVENTS

June 23-August 1, CIRCUS, CIRQUE, CIRCO: A Family Tradition presented by Circus Sarasota and The Ringling Museum at the Historic Asolo Theater, Wed & Thur at 11:00 a.m. and 2:00 p.m. / Fri & Sat at 2:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. / Sunday at 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. Tickets and Information: 941.360.7399.  Price(s)$10 for children age 12 and under / $12 for adults

June 26,10 pm, Disco Ball to benefit Mote Marine Oil Spill Emergency Fund at 1646 10th Way Sarasota. Come dressed like the era. $25 includes bites and drinks.

The Vinyl Music Festival, July 15-18 is the largest electronic music festival on the Gulf Coast of Florida. The festival celebrates artists from around the world and highlights the best local artists in the region. The festival is a four day event with artists from around the world performing, the Vinyl Music Festival attracts thousands of people throughout the region and brings a new excitement for electronic music. Buy tickets online only at www.vinylfestival.com/tickets

Florida Studio Theatre announces the 2nd Annual 2010 Sarasota Improv Festival. A two-day event, July 16 and 17, the festival will highlight great improvisation companies from across the state of Florida and throughout the United States. The festival will also feature workshops, such as Improv For Dummies, Talking Heads Anonymous, Interactive Improv and more. The improv troupes performing are from all over the country and this festival is a blast. You can buy tickets for one show or spend just $49 and attend the entire weekend. 941-366-9000. A sell out last year, you will want to purchase tickets early.

July 31 WSLR presents the Bluefest 2010 Kickoff Party starring The Lee Boys at Holley Hall. Doors open at 7:00 pm and music begins at 8:00 pm. Tickets $15 in advance, $20 at the door. Sure to sell out so it is best to purchase in advance. Tickets and information. Rocketman 941-346-8906, Fogt’s Music 941-929-1595 and Sarasota Emporium 941-366-0954

August 1, WSLR presents their 2nd Annual Very Merry Jerry Day (celebrating the life and music of Jerry Garcia) at the Sun N Fun RV Resort, 7125 Fruitville Rd. from 2 to 8 pm. $10 cover. Bring chairs, BYOB and coolers. Tickets available at www.wslr.org

ARTISTS AT WORK

Amy Webber, artist & Art Instructor is offering lessons in clay – on the pottery wheel and off, sculpture, drawing, painting and more for children, teens and adults. She is offering small classes, one on one instruction and also special instruction for high school students needing to work on summer Advanced Portfolio art projects for the upcoming school year. All supplies provided, 4 sessions, 2 1/2 hours each $120.00. Call 941-921-7347. Classes offered at The Studios at McIntosh, Clark Road.

Natalia Karoway Waterhouse, our friend and raw food chef, has entered a contest for the next “Hot Raw Chef” sponsored by Living Raw magazine. Please vote for her by going to www.hotrawchef.com filling out a simple voter registration and vote for #8. The more votes the better so please pass this onto your friends and support a local artist.

RESTAURANT REVIEWS AND SPECIALS

Everyone that dines at Mozaic during the month of July will receive a FREE $10 GIFT CERTIFICATE that can be used for a future visit! Their small way of saying thank you to all their valuable guests & friends. 1377 Main Street

Cosimo’s restaurant launched “Two-Tini Tuesdays” offering two martinis for the price of one from 4 pm to closing. Also offers a prix-fixe dinner for $29.99 per couple. Located in the Westfield Southgate Mall and Sarasota Sq Mall.

Hillview Grill, 1920 Hillview St. is offering a prix-fix dinner for two with a bottle of wine for $39.95. I had my anniversary party there in June and not only was the food very tasty and well prepared (the lamb chops were perfecto and there was 4 of them) the ambiance, which was created by Dave thru lighting and table decorations, was magical. Chef Peter was very flexible with us in creating our vision and that was important. He went the extra mile which I was not able to find in several other restaurants that I approached. 952-0045

Patrick’s is still offering his 1985 burger prices starting at $3.85 with all the trimmings. 952-1170

BUSINESS BUZZ

www.ridetofly.net offers airport shuttle service from downtown Sarasota and Lakewood Ranch. $45 one way

FiFi’s Fine Resale Apparel opens a new location at 1905 Osprey, 312-6950. Accepting new consignments,  no appointment necessary.

Elite Repeat, 2300 Bee Ridge, #402 is a a resale shop that has great clothes at reasonable prices. Not only do you get nice merchandise, the owner must have been a standup comedian in a past life, you come away with a smile on your face. Next time you are there say “Russet sent you” to get a big discount.

Check out Modern Hippie online magazine at www.modernhippiemag.com where editor and chief, Jaszy McAllister and her talented hubby, Steve McAllister have put together a masterpiece of content for the discerning mind, even us old hippies can enjoy. Sign up for the RSS feed or email blast.

PET NEWS

Go to www.news@greatergood.com and sign petition. Now pending in the Florida General Assembly, Senate Bill 2372 and House Bill 1221 would increase financial assistance to county spay/neuter efforts without raising taxes. The bills propose a $10 increase to the $5 surcharge imposed on those who violate local animal control ordinances. This money will be dedicated to funding municipal spay/neuter efforts. No new taxes.

Russets Raving Recipe of the Week

Pasta with Salmon and Peas

You have to use a high grade olive oil, I suggest Sapori d’Arte EVOO from Italy at www.saporedellavita.com. Fabulous oil with a deep rich olive off the tree taste. This is so simple it hurts. Cook any type of pasta. I like organic thick spaghetti or tagliatelle. Cut 2 garlic toes into slices and saute on low heat in 2 T. olive oil until ever so slightly brown.  Add 1 cup cooked cold (must be cold) leftover salmon cut up and a can of good quality baby peas and warm that up a little then turn off burner. Toss with a few more tablespoons of Sapori d’Arte EVOO, salt, pepper and parmesan cheese. Fantastico. This EVOO is out of this world in this dish as the mouthfeel (“Mouthfeel” is the term that is used for how flavors and textures are spread throughout your mouth) of it combined with all the ingredients complement each other so well. Buon Appetito

QUOTE OF THE WEEK

Formulate and stamp indelibly on your mind a mental picture of yourself as succeeding. Hold this picture tenaciously. Never permit it to fade. You mind will seek to develop the picture…Do not build up obstacles in your imagination.

by Norman Vincent Peale

My regular rave will not be out today because of a previous business commitment but I will “get ur dun” sometime this weekend so you at least have something to review. Better late than never I guess. I wish you all an enjoyable July 4th weekend and take the time to get together with your friends and family as we do not know what tomorrow brings because all we have is now.

I want to thank Peter, owner and Chef of Hillview Grill, and his staff for putting together a very special anniversary celebration for Brian and I and a memorable birthday for Mr. Bill Hon. We had over 30 guests for dinner and many more for cake and champagne. It touched our hearts to have so many friends to celebrate with.

This week’s RAVE will be short and sweet as I am soooo busy with my business and planning some events. Inspite of all the bad news about the economy, the oil spill and the war, we need to be thankful for every part of our lives, the positive and the negative. I don’t know about you all, but I like to be around people who are thankful for all they have, even the small things. So I am working on being the person I want to be. Feel free to join me.

THURSDAY

Circus-Cirque-Circo presented by Circus Sarasota and the Ringling Museum at the Asolo Theater thru Aug 1. Wed and Thurs 11am and 2 pm. Fri and Sat at 2 and 7 pm.Sunday 1 and 4 pm. $12 adults, $10 children www.ringling.org

FRIDAY

Van Wezel’s Friday Fest from 6-9 pm with Yesterdayze playing.

CD Release Party for the Venturas and Greg Poulous 8:30 pm at Linger Lodge. 7205 85th Ct. East, Bradenton $5 cover

Mixon Concert in the Grove 6-9 pm. Gypsy Trio performs. Mixon Fruit Farms, 2712 26th Ave E. Brandenton $5 Food, beer, wine available

Mitch Clark is playing at Woody’s River Roo from 7-11pm. It is located on the other side of the bridge at the Ellenton Mall exit. Take a left off highway then google rest. His band is so good and I hear he is working on new material.

Plant Sale June 25 and 26 at Tropiflora’s, 3530 Tallevast Road, located between US301 and Tuttle from 8-5 pm.

SATURDAY

The Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival starts this weekend thru next.  Go to www.suncoastoffshore.org for all the schedules.

Shift Change plays at Bacalao from 7 pm

SUNDAY

Save Our Seabirds Fundraiser noon to 8 pm at T’Katz Pub corner of Beneva and Webber. Live music, food, beer, children’s activities. Donation

MONDAY

TUESDAY

Suncoast Communities Blood Bank is having a “Twilight” Blood Drive to coincide with the premiere of “The Twilight Saga: Eclipse” at the Westfield Sarasota Sq Mall from 3-8 pm and Hollywood 20 from 4-9 pm. The first 50 fans to donate receive a free movie pass good for the midnight premiere of Eclipse.

WEDNESDAY

Siesta Key Lei plays at Blaise Cafe on the Key from 8-11.

FUTURE EVENTS

July 1- Sept 30 For all employees of Southwest Florida hotels, restaurants, and bars, Venture over to Mote Marine Laboratory to enjoy a special $5 admission rate. Spend the day exploring the remarkable exhibits, sea creatures, and activities offered daily. Proof of employment must be provided at entrance. Mote Marine Lab, 1600 Ken Thompson Parkway, Sarasota, 941- 388-4441

BUSINESS BUZZ

Go to www.nexttopauthor.com and vote for our friend, author, and woman of wisdom,Wendy Elwell, as Round 2 voting ends on Monday, June 28th. Check out her book entitled “Confessions of a Newly Renovated Woman, Lessons from the Men Behind the Organization” on the site. Just register to vote and help her win this nomination. It is good for all us hometown people to support the local artists. Check out her website, www.consciouscreations.us where she provides all kinds of services.  One of them being a gift she calls Angel Calls where she connects with your own personal angel, where you ask the questions and she serves as a channel.

Butterfly Effect, 451 N. Orange, is a little jewel of a store that has some of the best makeup and skin care in the world. Shayna, the owner, blends custom mineral makeup for each client and donates a portion of each purchase back to the community. A socially responsible and holistic store located in a darling little section of Orange.

RESTAURANT NEWS

Sake House, Japanese and Sushi, 1987 Ringling Blvd is having this week’s entire menu 50% off till 6/27. They serve just sushi and sake and have a hip NY style atmosphere. Jerah says the food is very good and inexpensive. I am going to try it this weekend. 312-6256 Mon-Sun 5-10 pm and Fri & Sat 5-10:30 pm.

Mi Pueblo is offering at 10% off entire check for lunch or dinner at all three locations. see coupon in Herald’s Ticket.

Be sure and check out all the restaurant’s summer specials in various publications.

Thought for the Day

Think less and listen to your body more. Learn when to use your thinking mind and when to turn it off. Too much thinking deadens creativity because it prevents us from opening up to inspiration and imagination. The body is the perfect receiver and transmitter of the soul and appears to have access to the information fields you cannot directly access using reason. So start listening to your body more often. (paraphrased from Tijn Touber’s column at Ode magazine)