HISTORIC SPANISH POINT: Guided and self-guided tours of a 30-acre archaeological, historical and environmental museum located on Little Sarasota Bay. Indian mounds, pioneer buildings and the gardens of Mrs. Potter Palmer with picnic facilities, nature trails and an exhibit gallery. Living History Dramas on weekend afternoons at 12:30, 1:15, 2 and 2:30 p.m. / Blue Moon Stroll with guided tours, light refreshments, music by Crescendo, 7-10 p.m. Dec. 31. Reserve online. $11 prepaid; $16 door; $1 members; $6 members’ guests. / Pups at the Point, leashed dogs welcome on museum grounds, 9 a.m.-noon third Saturday of the month. / Osprey Outdoor Market, 9 a.m.-noon last Saturday of the month through June. / Heritage Holidays, decorations throughout the museum, through Jan. 2. / Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. $9; $8 seniors 65 and older and Florida residents; $3 ages 6-12; under 6 and members free. 500 N. Tamiami Trail, Osprey (visitors center at 337 N. Tamiami Trail). 966-5214; historicspanishpoint.org

G.WIZ: Interactive science and technology museum. “The Inventions of Leonardo da Vinci,” featuring Leonardo’s concepts for a helicopter, odometer, printing press and more, through December. / Renewable energy exhibits, Jim Gary’s 20th Century Dinosaurs, coming in January. / Kids Day for grades K-5, activities and snack for children on days off school, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 4, 18-19, 22, Feb. 15, March 26. $39; $29 members. / Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Tues.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. $9; $8 students, military members and those age 65 and older; $6 ages 3-18; free under age 3 and members. 1001 Boulevard of the Arts. 309-4949; gwiz.org

RINGLING MUSEUM OF ART: Renaissance and Baroque paintings and traveling exhibits. Also includes Tibbals Learning Center with circus memorabilia; circus museum; Cà d’Zan, home of John and Mable Ringling; and Historic Asolo Theater. Saturday Family Days include complimentary tours and guides; activity carts, 1-4 p.m. / “Venice in the Age of Canaletto.” Through Jan. 10. / “Gothic Art in Gilded Age.” Through April 10. / “Art After 5,” museum open until 8 p.m. Wednesdays. Cash bar available; family activities in Circus Museum. Discounted admission: $10; $5 ages 6-17; free age 5 and younger and members. / Museum complex: $25; $20 age 65 and older; $10 ages 6-17, Florida teachers or students with ID and active U.S. military members; free age 5 and under and members. Open 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. daily (until 8 p.m. Wed.). Closed New Year’s Day. Main galleries free Mondays. 5401 Bay Shore Road. 358-3180; ringling.org

SARASOTA CLASSIC CAR MUSEUM: More than 100 antique cars and early arcade games. $8.50; $7.50 age 62 and older; $6.50 ages 6-12; free age 5 and younger. Open 9 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. 5500 N. Tamiami Trail. 355-6228; sarasotacarmuseum.org

SARASOTA COUNTY HISTORY MUSEUM: Exhibits include “Rising Seas — Life in Ancient Sarasota,” from the last glacial period; “Sarasota Settlement Era,” about pioneer life and Col. John Hamilton Gillespie, who brought golf to Florida; “Sarasota Boom Years,” featuring prominent 1920s figures Bertha Palmer, Owen Burns and John and Charles Ringling; “Paul Rudolph: The Florida Houses,” about the influential architect. Free. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Chidsey Building, 701 N. Tamiami Trail. 861-5000

MANATEE

ANNA MARIA ISLAND HISTORICAL SOCIETY: Rare photographs, maps, records from early 1900s, newspaper clippings, artifacts, videos and more chronicle the island’s history. Open 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Tues.-Sat. 402 Pine Ave., Anna Maria Island. Free. 778-0492; amihs.org

CYPRESS HOUSE MILITARY MUSEUM: Military artifacts and war memorabilia from World War I to Desert Storm. Open 10 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m. Tues.-Fri. and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. first and third Saturdays of the month. Closed New Year’s Day. Palmetto Historical Park, 515 10th Ave. W. Free. 723-4991; manateeclerk.com/historical

DE SOTO NATIONAL MEMORIAL: Historic village and nature trail tied to legendary site of Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto’s arrival in Florida. Open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Closed New Year’s Day. North end of 75th Street Northwest, Bradenton. Free. 792-0458; nps.gov/deso

FAMILY HERITAGE HOUSE MUSEUM: Exhibits show African-American history and achievements. Museum open 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Tues.-Thurs. State College of Florida, 5840 26th St. W., Bradenton. Free. 752-5319; familyheritagehouse.com

FLORIDA RAILROAD MUSEUM: 1950s trains through the wilderness leave at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sat.-Sun.; call for ticket prices. 12210 83rd St. E., Parrish. (877) 869-0800; frrm.org

SOUTH FLORIDA MUSEUM: Historical and scientific exhibits, and Snooty, the oldest manatee in captivity. Bishop Planetarium features state-of-the-art viewing and sound equipment. Think + Drink Cinema series: Lounge open 6-10 p.m.; film at 7 p.m. “Man on Wire,” Jan. 7 (Latin Rendezvous performs, 6 p.m.); “When We Were Kings,” Jan. 14 (Tom Savage Duo performs, 6 p.m.); “How to Draw a Bunny,” Jan. 21 (Victor Persaud performs, 6 p.m.); “The Endurance,” Jan. 28 (pre-film discussion with Jeff Rodgers, 6:15 p.m.); “Persepolis,” Feb. 4 (Friction Farm performs, 6 p.m.); “In the Shadow of the Moon,” Feb. 11 (KoKo Ray performs, 6 p.m.); “The King of Kong,” Feb. 18 (FireDoor performs, 6 p.m.); “The U.S. vs. John Lennon,” March 4 (Myakka performs, 6 p.m.). $9; $7 seniors and students; $5 members. / Think + Drink (Culture), 6-10 p.m. third Saturday of the month. $5 / Think + Drink Science Café, 7-9 p.m. third Wednesday of each month. Cocktail hour, 6 p.m. “The Maya Mystery of 2012,” Jan. 13. $10; $5 members. / Museum admission: $15.95; $13.95 ages 60 and older; $11.95 ages 4-12; free under 4 with paying adult and museum members. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat.; noon-5 p.m. Sun. Closed New Year’s Day. 201 10th St. W., Bradenton. 746-4131; southfloridamuseum.org

 Book early – get the best units AND the best deals!

La Plage 03 Condo 6420 Gulf Drive 4 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths WAS: $3,395.00 REDUCED TO: $2,546.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 Wonderful 4 bedroom, 3 bath gulf front condo! Rent any week during January, 2010 and save! Normally $3395 reduced to $2546.25. Save $848.75

Lynward Unit 1 Resort 3009 Avenue E 2 Bedrooms, 1 Full Baths WAS: $875.00 REDUCED TO: $525.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 Huge deal! Rent one week at ANY Lynward unit for $525.00 during December and January. This is a savings of $350.00 off of the $875.00 normal weekly rent! Rent any two weeks for the same time range for $1000.00, and save even more. A huge savings of $750.00!

Coquina Beach Club 101 Condo 1906 Gulf Drive #101 2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths WAS: $1,295.00 REDUCED TO: $907.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 30% discount during December and January. Normally $1295 per week, reduced to $907! SAVE $388.00!!

Carissa Retreat, North Multi family 5703 Carissa Street North side 2 Bedrooms, 1 Full Baths WAS: $980.00 REDUCED TO: $686.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 What a deal! Reduced 30% until February 1, 2010. Normally $980.00 per week reduced to $686.00. Save $294.00!

Carissa Retreat, South Multi family 5701 Carissa Street South side 3 Bedrooms, 3 Full Baths WAS: $1,750.00 REDUCED TO: $1,225.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 Deep discount! This price reflects a 30% discount. Normally $1750 per week but now $1225 until February 1, 2010. Save $525.00!

Carissa Retreat, Both sides Multi family 5701 Carissa Street, Both units 5 Bedrooms, 4 Full Baths WAS: $2,457.00 REDUCED TO: $1,911.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 Great deal! Five bedrooms. Normally $2457 week, reduced to $1911 until February 1, 2010. SAVE $546.00!!!

Mediterranean Canal Retreat Home 318 Iris 4 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths WAS: $1,890.00 REDUCED TO: $1,323.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 Fantastic offer! Save 30% on any week prior to February 1, 2010. Normally $1890 – reduced to $1323. Save $567.00

Holmes Beachside Retreat Home 7304 Holmes Blvd. 2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths WAS: $1,225.00 REDUCED TO: $858.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 What a deal! Stay any week until February 1, 2010 and save 30%! Normally $1225 – now reduced to $857.50. Save $367.50!

Pelican Cove 15 Condo 901 Gulf Drive South Unit 15 2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths WAS: $910.00 REDUCED TO: $599.00 Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 02/01/2010 Fantastic deal! Reduced from $910 per week to $599 per week during December and January. SAVE $311.00!! Hot new rentals! 

 Take a look at some of our newest rentals!

Anna’s Cottage Home 105 3rd Street S 2 Bedrooms, 1 Full Baths Offer Good: 10/10/2008 – 12/15/2009 Adorable two bedroom cottage just steps to the beach!

Spring Fling Home 213 Spring Avenue 3 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 05/11/2010 Wonderful three bedroom pool home.

Pineapple Palms Multi family 308 A 64th Street 2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths Offer Good: 12/11/2009 – 05/15/2010 Charming duplex with beautiful pool area.

Casa Bella Home 405 21st Place 3 Bedrooms, 3 Full 1 Half Baths Offer Good: 07/05/2009 – 12/31/2009 Glorious bayfront home with boat dock and infinity pool. This three bedroom, three bath beauty is new to the rental market and will book quickly. Don’t miss out!

 Red Fish Multi family 305 A 65th Street 2 Bedrooms, 2 Full Baths Offer Good: 09/28/2009 – 12/31/2009 Two bedroom one bath duplex in Holmes Beach.

Call us Island Vacation Properties, LLC at 800-778-9599 in the US, 0800-181-6302 in Germany and 0808-120-2338 in the UK  or visit us on the web at http://Islandvacationproperties.com  look under specials!

01/01/2009 to 12/31/2009 Contact Janet Orr at 941-773-0177

Every Friday Night 7p.m. to 8p.m. lessons 8p.m. to 11p.m. dancing $8.00 admission. BYOB and BYOfood. Soda, water can be purchased. Different bands bi-weekly.

Every Wesnesday 7pm to 8pm lessons 8pm to 10pm, dancing $8.00 admission. BYOB and BYO food. Soda, water can be purchased. Music by “Ellsworth” Bradenton Women’s Club – 1705 Manatee Ave. West, Bradenton

Robinson Preserve 04/12/2009 to 12/31/2009 Contact Manatee County at 941-742-5986 NEW -1704 99th Street N.W. Bradenton- Nature walk

Steel Drum Band 05/15/2009 to 12/18/2009 Contact Jamrocks Jamaican Grill at 941-778-2400 Every Friday Night Steel Drum Band 1701 Gulf Drive N., Bradenton Beach

Third Thursday Cocktails 06/18/2009 to 06/19/2010 Contact Ringling Museum at 941-359-5700 Third Thursday Cocktails at the Ca d’Zan with Music and Dancing. Ringling Museum, Sarasota.

Nightly Jazz 08/07/2009 to 12/31/2009 Contact Mangrove Grill at 941-723-2556 Mangrove Grill & Bar offers entainment nightly on the patio. Weather permitting 7:00pm to 10:00pm Mangrove Grill & Bar 102 Riviera Dunes Way Palmetto,FL 34221

 Ellenton Farmers Market 08/08/2009 to 08/01/2010 At the Ellenton Farmer’s Market you will rediscover the benefits of buying local produce that is fresher, tastier and more nutritious than anything in the local supermarket and at the same time is good for the economy–buying directly from the farmers helps your local community. Come meet our vendors who offer green products and services in our Eco Village that help promote good health and protects our planet. Northside of the Parking Lot in the Ellenton Ice and Sports Complex Every Saturday Year-Round SUMMER HOURS June to September 8:00-Noon SEASON HOURS October to May 8:00am- 1pm Ample parking Located just North of the Prime Outlet Mall in Ellenton, Florida (exit 224, Old Exit 43, off I – 75). 5309 29th Street East Ellenton, Florida 34222

Tropical Music 09/04/2009 to 01/01/2010 Contact Beachhouse Restaurant at 941-779-2222 One man band plays tropical music seven days a week at the Beachhouse Restaurant music begins at 6:00pm and runs until close. The Beachhouse Restaurant 200 Gulf Dive North Bradenton Beach, FL

Nightly Music 09/04/2009 to 01/01/2010 Contact Rotten Ralph’s at 941-778-3953 Nightly music at Rotten Ralph’s 902 S Bay Blvd. Anna Maria, FL 9pm to close

 Music on the Beach 09/04/2009 to 01/01/2010 Contact Cafe on the Beach at 941-778-0784 Music daily at The Cafe on the Beach 4000 Gulf Drive (Manatee Public Beach) From 4pm to 8pm

Music at the Bridgetender 09/04/2009 to 01/01/2010 Contact Bridgetender Inn at 941-778-4849 Nightly music at the Bridgetender Inn 155 Bridge Street Bradenton Beach, FL music from 5pm to 7pm and 9pm to close.

The State Threatre events 09/14/2009 to 12/10/2009 Contact Events at (727)895.3045 http://www.statetheatreconcerts.com/ Constructed in 1924, the State Theatre is an outstanding example of Beaux-arts style architecture. At the time of its construction, the State Theatre’s 6000 sq. ft. made it one of the largest banks in St. Petersburg. Its original use as the Alexander National Bank lasted only two years until Jacob Alexander died in December of 1926. During part of 1927, the building was occupied by the Gregory Electric Refrigeration Company but by 1928 sat vacant. The Fidelity Bank and Trust Company purchased the building in July of 1929. The stock market crash in October of that same year was too much for the local economy and the Fidelity Bank, like most St. Petersburg banks, was forced to close. After Fidelity’s liquidation in 1931, the building was used for a succession of small office tenants until 1949 when it was remodeled into the State Theatre. Neel Reid was the architect who designed the original building and was also responsible locally for the Alexander Hotel. In 1949 another notable architect, Archie Parrish of St. Petersburg, remodeled the building. The facade of the State Theatre is a symmetrical composition of three bays. The bays are defined by engaged pilasters expressed as a series of quoins above a projected water table base topped by an ionic capital with an attached swag. A projected cornice with a simple entablature tops the facade. Above this is a parapet divided into three corresponding bays again divided by projecting pilasters. Each of the three main bays contains a pair of ionic columns on a block base supporting a banded arch with an engaged keystone with an acanthus motif. A stylized bas-relief eagle fills the space between the sides of the three arches and the engaged pilasters. The original fenestration was removed at the time of the 1949 remodeling when the openings at the side bays were filled, and a new contemporary projecting marquis was added at the central bay above the theater doors. A later renovation into a concert venue included the installation of glass blocks at the two side arches.

Tampa BayLightning 2009 10/03/2009 to 12/30/2009 Contact St. Pete Times Forum at 813-301-2500

Wed Dec 9, 2009 Oilers Lightning 7:30 PM SUN Tickets Fri Dec 11, 2009 Lightning Avalanche 9:00 PM SUN Sun Dec 13, 2009 Lightning Blackhawks 7:00 PM RIS, SUN Tue Dec 15, 2009 Lightning Predators 8:00 PM Thu Dec 17, 2009 Lightning Red Wings 7:30 PM SUN Fri Dec 18, 2009 Lightning Blues 8:00 PM SUN Mon Dec 21, 2009 Lightning Islanders 7:00 PM SUN Wed Dec 23, 2009 Flyers Lightning 7:30 PM SUN Tickets Sat Dec 26, 2009 Thrashers Lightning 7:30 PM SUN Tickets Mon Dec 28, 2009 Bruins Lightning 7:30 PM SUN Tickets Wed Dec 30, 2009 Canadiens Lightning 7:00 PM RDS Tickets http://lightning.nhl.com/club/schedule.htm

Plays- Sean begins at Island Players 10/08/2009 to 05/01/2010 Contact Island Players the 61st Season begins at Island Players. Plays will be posted in the near future.

Holiday Arts Boutique 11/06/2009 to 12/24/2009 Contact Barbara Hines at 941-778-0189 The Sun House restaurant , 111 Gulf Drive, Bradenton Beach, will host members of the Artists Guild of Anna Maria Island in a holiday boutique. The boutique will be open Friday November 6th, and continue through Thursday, December 24th. Featured items will include locally made paintings, jewelry, sketches, crafts, books and cards. Also from 5pm to 8pm, Thursday through Saturday during the holiday season, AGAMI artists will gather at the restaurant to talk about their work. For more information , call Barbara Hines at 941-778-0189.

Holiday Markets 11/07/2009 to 12/19/2009 Contact Bridge Street at 941-518-4431 Historic Bridge Street will be the site of four holiday markets in November and December. The Open-air Bridge Street Market will take Place from 9:00am to 2:00pm  December 5th & 19th at 107 Bridge Street. Shoppers will find fresh produce, artwork, crafts, shells, clothing and accessories, collectibles, furniture, antiques, as well as food and beverages. The Bridge Street Merchants Association is the sponsor. For more information call 941-518-4431

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 11/10/2009 to 12/18/2009 Contact Walt Disney Magic Kingdom at (407) 939-7870 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a special event held each winter on select nights at Magic Kingdom theme park that requires a separate ticket to attend. This festive celebration is filled with live entertainment, spectacular fireworks and an oh-so-jolly holiday parade. Celebrate the magic of the season in the holiday wonderland of Magic Kingdom theme park. Gather with loved ones for a festive sight- and sound-filled special event that is sure to make you merry! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party features: The enchanted Castle Dream Lights on Cinderella Castle Mickey’s Once Upon A Christmastime Parade, complete with a special appearance by Santa Claus himself An exclusive holiday fireworks extravaganza — Holiday Wishes: Celebrate the Spirit of the Season Live entertainment featuring Disney Characters Meet and greet opportunities throughout Magic Kingdom theme park with some of your favorite Disney Characters Complimentary cookies and hot cocoa A magical snow fall on Main Street, U.S.A. Many of the most popular Magic Kingdom attractions The event will be held from 7:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m. on the following dates in 2009: December  8, 10, 11, 13, 15, 17, 18 Order tickets online or by calling (407) WDISNEY (934-7639). Guests under age 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Tickets may be purchased in advance and the event can sell out. Standard Magic Kingdom theme park admission tickets will not allow Guests to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/magic-kingdom/special-events/mickeys-very-merry-christmas-party/

 Experience the wonders of the Everglades 11/17/2009 to 01/17/2010 Contact South Florida Museum at 941-746-4131 South Florida Museum will be showing the photo works of Clyde Butcher and Jeff Repple “Wonders of the Everglades” now until January 17th, 2010. Photo can also be purchased. 201 10th Street West, Bradenton www.southfloridamuseum.org

Holiday Lights & Jungle Nights 11/27/2009 to 12/27/2009 Contact Sarasota Jungle Gardens at 941-355-5305 Sarasota Jungle Gardens will be hosting it’s”Holiday Lights & Jungle Nights” November 27th thru December 27. Please call for tickets and more information.

De Soto National Memorial Concert Series 11/28/2009 to 12/19/2009 Contact The Park at 941-792-0458 DeSoto National Memorial – Free Family Fun! NOVEMBER 28 – Saturday Evening Lawn Concert at 5pm Al Petteway and Amy White from “America’s Best Idea” DESOTO NATIONAL MEMORIAL 3000 75th St., N.W. Bradenton, FL 34280 On Florida’s Gulf Coast 5:00 P.M. http://www.nps.gov/deso Daniel Stephens @ 941-792-0458 extension 107 ————————————————————————

 Sights and Sounds from America’s Best Idea , I will be celebrating America, her National Parks, and those who have gone before us. I will play some of the tunes I have recorded over the years for Ken Burns’ films, and will present other historic American tunes with their accompanying stories that go with them. DeSoto National Memorial is a beautiful park and this promises to be a very pleasant time. I hope you can join me there. On Friday December 11th Film on the Lawn Highlights from “America’s Beat Idea” PBS documentary on ational Parks by Ken Burns On Saturday December 12th, Living History Camp Opening 10:00am Program throughout the day at Camp Vcita On Saturday December 19th Winter Luminary Walk The Park will be aglow with Holiday Spirit.

 Play- 12/03/2009 to 12/13/2009 Contact Sarasota Players Box Office at 941-365-2494 A Country Christmas Carol story by Charles Dickens Everybody’s favorite Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas past, present and future with a trailer park twist. God Bless Us Everyone, We Three Kings, We Wish You a Merry Christmas. “

THE EDUCATION OF ANGELS” 12/03/2009 to 12/13/2009 Contact Island Players at 941-778-5755 “THE EDUCATION OF ANGELS”: Angels-in-training Nick and Jenna are assigned to help Dave, a groom having doubts about his impending wedding, in Matthew Carlin’s comedy. Opens Dec. 3. 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., Tues.-Wed.; 2 p.m. Sun. Through Dec. 13. Island Players, Gulf Drive at Pine Avenue, Anna Maria. $15; $65-$90 series subscription. 778-5755; http://theislandplayers.org

Play- Annie 12/03/2009 to 12/23/2009 Contact Manatee Players Box Office at 941-748-5875 Manatee Players will be preforming “Annie”, December 3rd thru Dec 20. Tickets are $25 for adults and $11 for students. Please call for tickets and information. An employee of Island Vacation Properties, LLC son Phillip Morehouse will be performing in this show.

Family Days offer a new way for families to spend their Saturday 12/05/2009 to 01/09/2010 Contact Ringling Museum Family Days offer a new way for families to spend their Saturday’s at the Museum! Activity Carts Hands-on art-making activities related to an exhibition or theme will be available from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. Family-Friendly Tours Family-Friendly docent-led tours will be available on Saturdays. These tours will incorporate more interactivity than typical docent-led tours. Family Guides Complimentary family guides corresponding to select exhibitions or themes may be available daily in select galleries. Participation in Saturday Family Days activities are included in the price of regular Museum admission. The program is designed for children 4 and up.

 Danceing at the BB Fire House 12/08/2009 to 04/30/2010 Contact Winstead at 941-465-3123 A series of Dances and dance lessons are taking place at the old fire house in Bradenton Beach on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Niteclub-style couples dance lessons- swing, rumba, waltz, salsa, and cha-cha- taking place at 7pm At the retired West Manatee Fire Resue Station 201 Second Stret North, Bradenton Beach For a free trial session or more information callWinstead at 941-465-3123 2009

SEC/BIG EAST Invitational 12/09/2009 to 12/10/2009 Contact St. Pete Times Forum at 813-301-2500 2009 SEC/BIG EAST Invitational TICKET INFORMATION On Sale: Tickets are expected to go on sale in early September. More information to be announced. Event Dates/Times: Thursday, December 10, 2009 6:30 PM Thursday, December 10, 2009 9:00 PM ESPN Regional Television (ERT) announced today the start times for the third annual SEC/BIG EAST Invitational, to be held Dec. 9-10 in New York City and Tampa, Fla. The two-night men’s college basketball event begins with a doubleheader Wednesday, Dec. 9, at Madison Square Garden in New York City. The matchups feature Georgia vs. St. John’s at 7 p.m. ET on ESPN2, followed by Kentucky vs. Connecticut at 9:30 p.m. ET on ESPN. On Thursday, Dec. 10, at the St. Pete Times Forum in Tampa, DePaul will take on Mississippi State at 6:30 p.m. ET on ESPN2, followed by Syracuse vs. Florida at 9 p.m. ET on ESPN. Six of the eight participating teams reached the postseason in 2008-09, with Connecticut, Mississippi State and Syracuse playing in the NCAA Tournament. The Orange made it to the Sweet Sixteen, while the Huskies advanced to the Final Four. Florida and Kentucky played in the National Invitation Tournament, while St. John’s played in the College Basketball Invitational. Teams invited to participate in the SEC/BIG EAST Invitational are chosen by ESPN in consultation with the conferences and are based on geographic and competitive criteria. The BIG EAST holds a 5-3 record in the first two years of the SEC/BIG EAST Invitational. The two conferences have combined to produce four of the last seven NCAA Men’s Basketball Champions (Florida – 2007 and 2006; Connecticut – 2004; Syracuse – 2003) and seven of the last 14 national champions (Connecticut – 1999; Kentucky – 1998 and 1996). For more information, please visit www.secbigeastinvitational.com

 Avenue Q 12/10/2009 to 12/10/2009 Contact VanWezel Performing Arts Hall at 800-826-9303 Avenue Q Thurs. Dec. 10, 2009 @ 8 PM Category: Broadway Tickets: $80,$65,$55,$45,$30(plus surcharge, parking fee & sales tax) Subscribe Now! For the Best Seats in the House! & Save 15% call 941-953-3368 to place your order. Avenue Q is Broadway’s smash-hit 2004 Tony Award® winner for Best Musical, Best Score and Best Book. A hilarious show full of heart and hummable tunes, Avenue Q is about trying to make it in NYC with big dreams and a tiny bank account. Called “one of the funniest shows you’re ever likely to see” by Entertainment Weekly, AVENUE Q features a cast of people and puppets who tell the story in a smart, risqué and downright entertaining way. The New Yorker calls it “SUBVERSIVE and UPROARIOUS!” Recommended for ages 13 and up. Seat requests will be filled on a first-in available, after renewals. Group Tickets Available

Concerts in the Grove 12/11/2009 to 12/11/2009 Contact Mixon Farms at 941-748-5829 Mixon Fruit Farm Concerts in the Grove will feature “Soul R Coasters” December 11th 6pm – 9pm Cost $5.00 for parking Please bring a Toys for Tots, or Canned Food for canned food drive. 2712 26th Avenue East, Bradenton

Sing-a-Long 12/11/2009 to 12/11/2009 Contact AMICC at 941-778-1908 Anna Maria Island Community Center will host a holiday show and sing-a-long at 407 Magnolia Ave, Anna Maria Saturday December 11th at 6:30pm in the center gym.

Christmas Parade 12/12/2009 to 12/12/2009 Christmas Parade/Santa Open House Saturday, Dec 12 10:00a at City of Anna Maria, Anna Maria, FL The Christmas Parade starts at Bayfront Park and continues south on Gulf Drive. When the parade concludes at Coquina Beach, everyone is invited to the park for an Open House with Santa. Santa will take his post aboard the Privateers’ pirate ship and pass out gifts. All children are welcome to take part. Price: Free admission Age Suitability: All Ages Tags: christmas parade santa The Christmas Parade starts at Bayfront Park and continues south on Gulf Drive. When the parade concludes at Coquina Beach, everyone is invited to the park for an Open House with Santa. Santa will take his post aboard the Privateers’ pirate ship and pass out gifts. All children are welcome to take part. Complimentary refreshments will be provided.

The Nutcracker 12/12/2009 to 12/13/2009 Contact Dance Theatre of Bradenton at 941-756-0212 The Nutcracker presented by Dance Theatre of Bradenton Allison Norton, Artistic Director Music by Tehaikovsky Neel Auditorium at the State College of Florida 5840 26th Street West Bradenton, FL Showtimes: Saturday December 12th at 7:00pm Sunday, December 13th at 1;30pm Ticket Price: Adults: $20.00 Children under 13: $15.00 Ticketys available at: Allison’s Dance Center 5231 26th Street West Bradenton, FL (41-756-0212 www.allisondancecentre.com/nutcracker

Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. New York Jets 12/13/2009 to 12/13/2009 Contact Raymond James Stadium at 813-350-6500 New York Jets are in town to take on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers December 13th at 1:00pm 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy Tampa, FL 33607-6103 (813) 350-6500

Seasonal Music by Bay Chorale 12/15/2009 to 12/15/2009 Contact First Presbyterian Church at 941-753-5634 Come Enjoy an evening of seasonal music with your friends and family featuring Bradenton’s Premier Community Choir “Bay Chorale” 7pm Tuesay December 15th, 2009 First Presbyterian Church 1402 Manatee Ave West Downtown Bradenton Including an All Handbell Choir and a look at Santas from around the world. Tickets $10.00 Call 941-753-5634 Tickets will be available at the door

This Owner is offering a week rate of $525.00 that $75.00 a day (doesn’t include taxes and processing fee)

They are also offering two week rentals for $1000.00 that is under $75.00 a day on Anna Maria Island.

Each unit is a 2 Bedroom 1 bath sleeps 6, with a sleeper sofa, Queen bed and 2 twin. There are a total of 4 units. The property also has a pool.

For more information on Lynward Resort please call Island Vacation Properties, LLC at 800-778-9599 in the US, 1808-120-2338 from the UK and 0800-181-6302 from Germany, or visit us on the web at http://islandvacationproperties.com   look under Lynward in rental list for more pictures.

https://www.dreamhousecharityfl.com/v1/Featured_Home.php  

Now I am not a betting type of person but I do believe in supporting the area foster children program.  For the past 4 or 5 years I have tried to support the Foster Angle Program, they collect gifts for the children in foster care; my heart always goes out to the teenagers in the system, why? Because of all the kids out there I feel they are the forgotten and at a time in their life when you need a parent to help you with life’s challenges and to help them the college or Voc tech school, what to do about a boyfriend or girlfriend.  Who is helping this young people?  A  lot of them live in shettlers with other teenagers, these young people did ask for the life they’ve been given, that is why I call them the forgotten. So every year I try to make some difference even if it is making cookies for the kids, just so they know out there someone is thinking about them, they are not forgotten. You may say why aren’t you a foster parent, well I did go through the program with my 1st husband, but we had a very sick child and lived in a 900 sq ft home with our 4 children, not what the program is looking for, than our marriage did not last. Now I work 7 days a week to care for my children and do not have the extra time it takes to raise more children.

http://www.sarasota-ymca.org/socialServices/fosterCareServicesDetail.cfm?serID=1

 Now back to the link, how I figure this it has pretty good odds and not at such a high cost, it is for a good cause the children in Manatee County Child Services and you can possible win a home.

Where does the owners live? Why does this matter? Well if you get locked out in the middle of the night, who is going to help you and at what cost?

 If the A/C  or Heater breaks who is going to fix it? Can you get hold of the owner 24 hrs a day?

What if the owner over books their home, and you don’t find out until you are at the front door? Where are you going to stay and how are you going to get reimbursed?

What if you get to the rental and it isn’t what you expected? What if it is not clean? Does the owner have other homes where they can put you?

What if the home is in foreclosure? Is the owner going to tell you?

What if the property burns down?

Yes, the owner may have a company that manages their unit, but if they are renting to you directly will the management company take care of you or will you have to call the owner? In most cases they will not be able to move you to another place due to the fact you paid the owner, the management company doesn’t have those funds to move you to another place.

These are only a few issues For Rent By Owner may encounter. So when you are planning a vacation you may want to think about what can happen if you are renting directly through an owner. You may be saving a few dollars, but what about peace of mind how much is that worth?

Being a vacation rental company we have seen the above issues guest have with renting through an owner. When you are looking for your next vacation rental try looking at Vacation Management Companies and compare your saving and what is being offered to you. Visit us on the web and check out our SPECIALS page.

http://islandvacationproperties.com

Sixth Annual Sarasota Medieval Fair 11/14/2009 to 11/22/2009 Contact Sarasota Fair Grounds at 888-303-FAIR Open November 14,15,21 & 22. The Sarasota Fair Grounds will be holding the Sixth annual Medieval Fair. Please call for tickets and information.

 Want to see some great sand sculpting, than you must see:

Sand Blast 2009 11/18/2009 to 11/21/2009 Contact Keep Manatee Beautiful at 941-795-8272 In front of the BeachHouse Restaurant , 200 Gulf Dr. N, Bradenton Beach. SandBlast 2009, a benefit for Keep Manatee Beautiful, is scheduled to take place Nov 18-21. Nov 18-20 Workshop in Sansculpting with team Santastic will take place at 5pm to provide amateur sculptors an opportunity to learn tips from the pros. Saturday Nov 21 from 9am to 2pm the novices get an opportunity to apply their knowledge and compete in the annual SandBlast Competition. Prior to the competition , Team Santastic, which holds a Guinness World Record for the tallest Sandcastle, will create a sculpture of a nautical holiday theme along Gulf Drive.

Kevin Bacon and his brother will be performing at:

The Bacon Brothers 11/20/2009 to 11/20/2009 Contact VanWezel Performing Arts Hall at 800-826-9303 The Bacon Brothers Fri. Nov. 20, 2009 @ 8pm Category: Pop & Rock Tickets: $50, $40, $35, $30, $10 (plus surcharges, parking fee, & sales tax) Long before iconic actor Kevin Bacon became a household name with such hit films as Footloose and A Few Good Men, he was writing songs and playing percussion in Philadelphia coffeehouses with his brother and other groups. Michael, nine years Kevin’s senior, had already established himself as a professional musician, performing with his popular Philly band “Good News.” Today the Bacon Brothers — Kevin on guitar and vocals and Michael on guitar, cello and vocals – are a dynamic force on the American music scene and one of the most popular live bands on the concert circuit. They call their sound “forosoco,” a fusion of folk, rock, soul and country. Their fans call it “awesome.” Group Tickets Available

Visit Santa for breakfast at:

Breakfast with Santa at Mixon Fruit Farm 11/21/2009 to 11/21/2009 Contact Mixon Farms at 941-748-5829 Breakfast with Santa at Mixon Fruit Farm, call Mixon for details.

Holiday Craft can be found at :

Holiday Craft Show 11/21/2009 to 11/21/2009 Contact Cheryl Johnson at 941-807-3650

Holiday Craft can be found at :

Holiday Craft Show Saturday November 21st from 10:00am to 4:00pm, come and see holiday crafts. Bradenton Women’s Club 1705 Manatee Avenue West, Bradenton

Check out some or the local artist and see some of the history at:

Cortez Village Folk Arts Festival 11/21/2009 to 11/21/2009 Contact Cortez Fishing Village The annual Cortez Village Folk Arts Festival will be held November 21st from 10:00AM to 4:00PM. There is no admission charge, but donations are appreciated. 17 Vendors, 5 non-profits and 5 food vendors will be on hand to provide food and fine gift items. Several great music groups will again headline the music portion of the Festival. The Museum will host guided tours, items for sale in the gift shop, and other special programs. Several of the Museum’s wooden boat fleet will be on display as well as a special demonstration at the F.I.S.H. Boat Shop. Volunteers will be on hand to help with parking

Do you like citrus, than you may want to go to:

Citrus Cooking Competition 11/21/2009 to 11/21/2009 Contact Mixon Farms at 941-748-5829 Fun Citrus Cooking Competiton at Mixon Fruit Farms, call Mixon Farms for details.

For all you animal lovers visit:

Bishop Animal Shelter Canine Christmas Festival 11/21/2009 to 11/21/2009 Contact Bishop Animal Shelter at (941) 792-2863 Canine Christmas Festival, call Bishop for more information. http://www.bishop-spca.org/ 5718 21st Ave W Bradenton, FL 34209-5606 (941) 792-2863

What a see a show? How about a Murder Mystery ?

Murder Mystery at the Center 11/21/2009 to 11/21/2009 Contact Island Community Center at 941-778-1908 The Island Community Center presents a murder mystery night from 6:30pm to 10:30pm on Saturday November 21st, at the Center, 407 Magnolia Ave, Anna Maria. Prom night is supposed to be the best night of a high schooler’s life, but this one will be the last night of someone’s life. Guest dressed in prom gowns and tuxes will try and solve the mystery, while actors present scenes set to a 1950′s prom theme. Tickets are $25.00 per person. table of eight are available for $200, but guests’ names must be submitted when making the reservation. Horsd’oeuvres will be provided; BYOB. For information or to reserve a table, call 941-778-1908.

For you football fans check out:

Tampa bay Buccaneers vs. New Orleans Saints 11/22/2009 to 11/22/2009 Contact Raymond James Stadium at 813-350-6500 Come Cheer on the Tampa Bay Buccaneers November 22nd at 1:00pm 4201 N Dale Mabry Hwy Tampa, FL 33607-6103 (813) 350-6500