Bonni London – The Woman I Love To Hate is a top Sarasota Nutritionist - 06/30/12 07:25 PM
 
Bonni London – The Woman I Love To Hate is a top Sarasota Nutritionist
 
I am a confessed food junkie.  And the junkier the food, the more I crave it.  My car nosedives into every Taco Bell and McDonalds and I have never met anything fried that I did not like.  However, as the clock keeps ticking and the metabolism changes, I knew that I had to make changes as well.  So, a friend did an intervention and suggested I make a visit to London Wellness for a  tune-up.  It was hate at first sight.  Ms. London, is thin, … (3 comments)

Sarasota's Boutique "Hotel Ranola" - 06/30/12 06:57 PM

Sarasota’s Boutique “Hotel Ranola”
 
Just a few blocks from our J Wood Realty Office  is a darling nine room hotel that is just steps from countless restaurants and our very hip downtown.  Back in 1926 it served as an apartment hotel for snowbirds and is now living a revived life as a cozy place to tuck into when visiting Sarasota.  Get a taxi from nearby Sarasota airport and don’t bother with a rental car.  You are a short walk from movie theaters, shops, art venues and even the marina at the bay. 
 
 It offers  spacious boutique … (0 comments)

The Original Giovanni Sauce maker is now in Sarasota! - 06/29/12 05:37 PM
Who knew that when I sold a home to some wonderful people from New Jersey that I would not only get a commission check but also a cooking lesson?  Carole Ann and John Aragona have become very good friends and now that they are happily settled in Sarasota, John is continuing to market and sell his incredible sauces and decided that showing cooks how to use them would help get the word out locally.  His video blog makes it easy for people like me who are totally lost in the kitchen to prepare a meal that is mouth watering.  John is … (0 comments)

MacGyver lives in Sarasota under the alias of Jon Pardue - 06/28/12 06:49 PM
Remember the adventures of the secret agent, MacGyver, who never met a challenge he could not overcome by using his infinite scientific resourcefulness?  We have such a hero right here in Sarasota.  Jon Pardue is the “go to guy” for just about any problem you encounter that requires computer, electronic or imaginative skills to solve.  At our office,  J Wood Realty has him on speed dial for any IT issues as well as for installation of anything electronic.  You can see the wheels spinning around in his head as he calmly assesses the problem, determines the solution and resolves it with what seems … (2 comments)

Sarasota’s “A Slice of Heaven” - You CAN have your cake and eat it too! - 06/27/12 06:29 PM
 

 
Sarasota’s  “A Slice of Heaven” is one of the most creative bakeries you will ever find.  No matter what the occasion they tailor bake mouth-watering delights that taste even better than they look.  How many times have you been so impressed with a decorative cake only to bite into it and have a cardboard taste in your mouth?  Not at A Slice of Heaven  They use only super moist sponge cake with premium fillings, three to be exact, for each cake.  Buttercream frosting guarantees that the texture is smooth and creamy and the cake cuts clean and smoothly.  “A … (1 comments)

Café Epicure – Sarasota’s cure for Italian cravings - 06/26/12 06:48 PM
My most favorite eatery in all of Sarasota has to be Café Epicure.  From its delightful dining area and stunning bar there is something on the menu for just about any time of day or evening. Authentic Italian fare and European service make it a wonderful dining experience and Café Epicure really is Sarasota’s cure for Italian cravings. Whether your mind is zoned in on pasta, salad, fish or pizza, there is something on the menu to satisfy your need. Your dining experience may be at one of the sidewalk tables or lounge, the dining room with its glass cases of … (1 comments)

Posh On Palm in Sarasota - 06/25/12 07:23 PM

Elvis loves his little shopping trips when he spends the day at the office and Posh on Palm is always an adventure for him.  He may weigh 102 pounds but he is no match for the resident cat, Romeo and he enters the store tentatively, knowing that the big black and white ball of fur can take him down.  This romantic shop is one of Sarasota’s most eclectic and wonderful small businesses that make the downtown area so special. 
 
Susie Holt and her husband, Mark have transformed the former De Marco Hotel into Posh on Palm by utilizing … (0 comments)

Sarasota’s Coffee Loft – Achieving its Lofty Aspiration! - 06/24/12 07:22 PM

New College of Florida, Ringling College of Art & Design and USF of Sarasota-Manatee  are all located on a one-mile  strip of U.S. 41 in North Sarasota.  Sarasota’s Coffee Loft has achieved its lofty aspiration of becoming a safe and sociable gathering place for students every day of the week.  Although the school campuses are quite beautiful they are located along a stretch of Tamiami Trail that is littered with motels and liquor stores, 24 hour food marts and vacant lots.  The Coffee Loft has become a magnet that unites the students of all these schools providing them with a social … (2 comments)

Sarasota Architectural Salvage .... One Man's Junk..... - 06/23/12 06:27 PM
Small businesses are what make America such a country of opportunity for anyone willing to invest time and money in a product they believe in.  One of my most favorite destinations is Sarasota Architectural Salvage, a company that profits from the old adage, “One man’s junk is another man’s treasure.”  This wonderland of lighting, doo-dads, nautical items, yard decorations and thousands of items salvaged from demolition projects and homes undergoing remodeling is a treasure trove for impossible to find items and things you never even knew existed.  Located at 1093 Central Avenue in downtown Sarasota, it is just a short trip … (2 comments)

Elvis Has Left the Building....with a chew toy!!! - 06/21/12 06:09 PM

My fabulous Doberman, Elvis, loves to shop.  One of his most favorite stores in Sarasota is right downtown just a few blocks from our real estate office.  On the days he accompanies me to work he knows that a trip to WET NOSES will be the highlight of his day.  We stroll the four blocks and as we near the shop he becomes excited knowing that a treat is in his future.  This wonderful small business started out on St. Armand’s Circle and then made the move into downtown a little over a year ago.  It is a welcome addition … (10 comments)

Toy Lab in Sarasota isn't just for kids! - 06/20/12 06:03 PM
Are you at a loss when a child’s birthday is fast approaching and you have absolutely no idea what to bring to the party?  There is an incredible small business on Main Street in downtown Sarasota named “Toy Lab.”  You are immediately attracted to the bright building blocks in primary colors on the façade which are just a hint of the wonders awaiting you when you cross the threshold.  Make sure that you have plenty of time to make a decision because this place is just full of intriguing and interesting toys.  Whether it is one of the classic old-fashioned toys … (0 comments)

Main Street Traders.... Coastal,Comfy and Chic - 06/19/12 06:41 PM
Main Street Traders is one of those amazing stores that really does have something for everyone.  Whenever I am baffled over a gift for someone I head through the doors and find the perfect item in a very short time.  The owner, Rebecca Volz, has spent years tweaking, refining and reinventing her inventory and each visit delights me with the new items she has found and comforts me with the tried and true standbys that she keeps because they are so popular.  From edgy greeting cards to splendid bedcoverings, from clothing to accessories for the home, this is a wonderland of … (0 comments)

Burgers, Bikers and Beautiful People - 06/18/12 07:49 PM

When I moved to Longboat Key in 1984 one of the first stops that all the locals told me was a must was The Hob Nob hamburger shop in Sarasota.  Opened in 1957 and still operating today, it is most definitely Sarasota’s oldest drive-in restaurant.  I was immediately addicted to the greasy burgers, creamy shakes and crispy fries with all the fixings.  Lunch there was an experience as bikers, people from all careers, ages and diversity of incomes sat shoulder to shoulder savoring the comfort food. 
When I became a Harley Rider in 1992 I became one of the … (4 comments)

Your eyes will glaze over at Gold Star Donuts - 06/17/12 06:56 PM
 
Every neighborhood has a favorite little business and Gold Star Donuts is one of our least best kept secrets. Tucked into a little strip mall in Bradenton on Whitfield Avenue at 12th Street, it is home to the best donuts I have ever had. The glazed ones are at least three inches high and they melt in your mouth before you have a chance to chew them. Along with the usual suspects of different flavors and icings, it is best known for the Pecan Queen, a pecan roll like no other. At 6:00 when the doors open, the car doors … (1 comments)

He's All The Rage..... - 06/16/12 07:49 PM
I love interesting and successful small businesses whose success can be attributed to the owner.  Drew Brooksbank  has a wonderful salon, Rage Hair Design, in Burns Square and is a one man show.  It is a very funky space with soaring ceilings, crazy art and a tranquil atmosphere that forces you to relax.  He performs his magic on the hair of one client at a time and I had forgotten how nice it is to get individual attention and not be worked on in between other heads.   Drew has been styling hair for over 30 years and his expertise with color … (0 comments)

J Wood Realty supports the Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival - 06/15/12 06:56 PM
 
Sarasota 2012 Suncoast Super Boat Grand Prix Festival
 
Hard to believe we are almost half way thru the year and the boat races are just around the corner.  This incredible event has become a signature for Sarasota and it benefits the Suncoast Charities for Children.  It is sanctioned by Superboat International Productions Inc. and encompasses 12 days of racing, reveling and relaxing in or around the water.  There are activities for everyone’s interests starting with the Aqua Plumbing & Air Grand Prix Golf Classic, a classic car show, Texas Hold’Em Poker Tournament, High Heel Hike for Autism, Power Boats … (1 comments)

Don't Miss this Watering hole! - 06/14/12 07:00 PM
 
Along with all the sophistication and arts venues that Sarasota has to offer there is a wonderful watering hole named Peggy’s Corral that is a must for any bikers passing through and I don’t mean the Lance Armstrong kind.  Located on Highway 41 in Palmetto this spot is a great gathering place for anyone on a motorcycle in need of a cold drink, some good food and a friendly welcome.  Their website has a complete schedule of events and there is something going on just about every day/night of the week.  So, if you are riding through, be sure to … (2 comments)

Burns Court Cinema in Sarasota - 06/13/12 06:07 PM
 
Burns Court Cinema in Sarasota
Yet another great reason to live in downtown Sarasota is the Burns Court Cinema, right in the middle of historic Burns Square.  Since opening its doors in 1993 this cozy theater with three intimate screening rooms has offered the films that are not accompanied by prominent media coverage and often releases “sleepers” that move to the big screen because they are just that good!  The movies vary from first-run to foreign language, independent and art films.  Having moved here from New York and all the theater choices offered there, finding this gem was exciting and … (1 comments)

It's a Bird, It's a Plane... no, it's a Chapel on the water! - 06/12/12 05:32 PM
Okay, so I had a couple of Margaritas while out on the boat today but I did not imbibe enough to be able to explain this: There, just ahead, a building floating in the bay! But not just any building! This is Sarasota's very own "Floating Chapel on the Bay". Curiosity overcame us and we had to follow it into port which happened to be right down our own canal where it has found a new home.

Can you imagine what a beautiful wedding you could have, floating in the bay with the sunset in the distance? I managed to … (5 comments)

Wilbur, this is not your ordinary horse of course! - 06/11/12 07:03 PM

While living in Vienna, Austria the Spanish Riding School was one of my most favorite destinations.  To be able to sit ringside and watch the fabulous Lippizzan Stallions going through their drills convinced me that these horses are among the most magnificent creatures on this earth.  Their history is dramatic and almost unbelievable and this link http://www.lipizzaner.com/home.asp  goes into depth about their past and miraculous rescue during World War II by General George Patton. 
 
Sarasota may be the arts capital of southwest Florida but it is also right next door to the Myakka home of Herrmann’s Original Royal … (4 comments)

I Like my Caviar Naked!! - 06/10/12 04:41 PM

I love naked caviar.  No toast point, egg or onion for me.  No little pancakes wrapped around these succulent eggs, masking their tart and salty taste will do for me.  Just give me a spoon and leave me to my indulgence.  Others may feel the same guilty pleasure from a carton of their favorite ice cream and know exactly what I am talking about.  Sarasota is now an even better place for me to live because Mote Marine Laboratories are producing and selling this fabulous delicacy right here in my own backyard. 
 
They operate the nation’s largest recirculating … (1 comments)

A Hamburger steeped in atmosphere and history….. - 06/09/12 06:14 PM

A Hamburger steeped in atmosphere and history…..
 
When I moved to Sarasota in 1984 one of the first places I was introduced to by the locals was a hamburger joint called “Duffy’s Tavern.” It was right across the street from the Manatee Public beach in a little shack with no air-conditioning and a few tables.  The hamburgers were cooked in front of you, piled with grilled onions and served with icy cold mugs of beer to keep you cool.  Sitting next to locals and tourists alike, it was easy to start up conversations and learn about the history of … (2 comments)

The Greatest "Little" Show on Earth! - 06/08/12 06:38 PM

In Sarasota we do not have to wait for the Circus to come to town because for the last 60 years we have been graced with the efforts of students from our very own city who perform annually for visitors and residents alike.  With its humble beginnings as a small show put on by a high school gymnastics class in 1949 to its present spectacular 4 ring circus production it has given young people from the 4th through the 12th grades the opportunity to participate in the performing arts at a very “high” level.  Touted as the Greatest “Little” Show … (1 comments)

FAQ - Why should I use a local Lender? - 06/07/12 06:10 PM
 
WHY SHOULD I USE A LOCAL LENDER?

It happened again today.  Although I had advised and cajoled and then practically begged the buyers to dump their internet lender, why should they pay any attention to me?  Why would my advice be better than the wife’s hairdresser’s brother, the waiter, who is so much more experienced than I am in the ways of real estate.  After all, he comes in contact with customers all day long who fill his ears with their real estate knowledge as he is serving them their food. 
 
So, they choose to stick with … (42 comments)

Almost Heaven Kayak Adventures - 06/07/12 05:39 PM
 
ALMOST HEAVEN KAYAK ADVENTURES
 
The white sandy beaches are one of our biggest draws for visitors to Sarasota along with the beautiful water of the Gulf of Mexico.  But, if you are someone who needs to satisfy your sense of adventure in addition to relaxing in a lounge chair, taking a kayaking tour may be a wonderful alternative for you. 
 
Depending upon the route that you choose you may meet up with Dolphins and Manatees, tropical and nesting birds, crystal-clear springs, exotic mangrove tunnels or even alligators.  The Sarasota area has so many beautiful locales and when … (0 comments)

Jack Vinales Antiques in Sarasota - 06/06/12 08:10 PM
 
Burns Square in Sarasota is bursting with specialty shops and fabulous antique stores.  Located just a short walk from main street it is not to be missed.  One of my most favorite destinations is Jack Vinales Antiqueswith its eclectic collection of items from the 20th Century.  A Sarasota landmark since 1989, it attracts locals and tourists alike with some of the most interesting collectibles in the city.  Jack is usually in the shop and he is as likable as he is knowledgeable. 
 From pottery to jewelry to furniture and more, this is a wonderful place to browse and I just … (0 comments)

Who Moved My Cheese? - 06/05/12 07:26 PM
 
 
Who Moved My Cheese?
 
Cheese is one of my most favorite temptations and I always succumb to it no matter what kind.  This new shop in Sarasota, Artisan Cheese Company, not only sells it but serves it and gives you an education about each type that they offer.  Walking into its convenient Main Street location is like being transported to a land of exquisite textures, tastes and scents.  Forget the tried and true, the same old standbys you have relied on for years.  Nose among the Stilton Colston Bassett from England, the Bayley Hazen Blue from Vermont, and … (1 comments)

Lions and Tigers and Bears… Oh my! - 06/04/12 06:09 PM
 
Lions and Tigers and Bears… Oh my!

Big Cat Habitat and Animal Sanctuary in Sarasota, Florida is a non-profit safe haven for big cats, bears, and other animals in need. The Big Cat Habitat was founded by Kay Rosaire who has more than 30 years of experience working with and caring for exotic animals. Her goal is to educate the public by fostering appreciation for animals and stressing the importance of habitat preservation.  This is such a fabulous place to visit because the animals are so well cared for and living in wonderfully designed quarters.  I never realized how … (6 comments)

Mozzarella Fella - Sarasota's Newest Downtown Eatery! - 06/03/12 06:07 PM
 
What is one of my most favorite things about downtown Sarasota?  The selection of restaurants, sandwich shops and other eateries would be it!  A great new place just opened, Mozzarella Fella, and it certainly lives up to its name.   I haven’t had a sandwich this good since I left New York in 1984 and the Mozzarella is as tasty as the fresh chunks floating in water in the trattoria’s of Italy.  The shop is cozy and clean and the owners could not be more friendly or accommodating.  I ordered the Mozzarella and Tomato sandwich and was absolutely in heaven.  Please … (2 comments)

The Orchids Are Awesome at Awesome Orchids! - 06/02/12 06:37 PM
 
Our office is right next door to one of the finest small businesses in all of Sarasota.  Have you ever been able to walk past an Orchid shop and not go in?  Awesome Orchids is our neighbor and they are quite the success story.  From humble beginnings at Sarasota’s Farmer’s Market they took the leap into brick and mortar and have prospered with hard work, ethical behavior and of course, awesome orchids!
 
Their description of themselves is: “We are a family-run business, connected by our love of orchids and our passion for our work. Drawing on our professional … (3 comments)

FAQ - What are COA’s and HOA’s and how do they differ from assessments? - 06/01/12 07:26 PM
 
FAQ - What are COA’s and HOA’s and how do they differ from assessments?
 
In the state of Florida, COA stands for Condo Owner Association and HOA is for Homeowner Association.  Most of these associations have mandatory membership and require monthly or quarterly dues paid into them.
 
  An HOA or COA is represented as a whole by a Board of Directors. The board is a group of individuals who live in the community who have been elected to represent the majority. They are responsible for upholding the bylaws, covenants and restrictions of the association, as well … (0 comments)

This 5 Star Resort is going to the Dogs!! (cats too!) - 06/01/12 06:53 PM
 
There is a new Spa in town and it is going to the Dogs! (cats too!)
 
One area of the economy that is booming is anything that has to do with pets.  Sarasota is a huge vacation destination and as a realtor I am aware of the “no pet” restrictions that most condos have regarding pets accompanying their owners in rental units.  This brand new facility is basically a 5 Star Resort for cats and dogs and I think it is going to solve the problem for vacationers who want to bring them with them.

Another huge plus … (4 comments)

 
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Marnie Matarese - Sarasota Real Estate - J Wood Realty

Sarasota, FL

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J Wood Realty

Address: 330 South Pineapple Avenue, Suite 113, Sarasota, Fl, 34236

Office Phone: (941) 922-7600

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