Community Information

Theater season is just around the corner, and our real estate agents are already excited about the upcoming performances. Community theater is so important in our area as it serves as both a fun escape and an artistic platform for our local performers. This year's calendar is full of musicals, dramas, comedies, and even family performances, so there is sure to be something for everyone. Here are a few of the highlights that we're looking forward to the most:

Players Centre 
Located just down the road from these Sarasota homes for sale is the Players Centre. This wonderful community theater hosts everything from musicals to smaller productions and provides local artists and performers with an outlet to express creativity. Here are some of the performances in the upcoming season:

• Side By Side: September 8 - 18
  A Tony Award-winning musical is funny, heartbreaking, and full of emotion. Side By Side follows an influential artist's search for the meaning of life. 
• Little Shop Of Horrors: October 6 - 16
  One of the most creative and popular theater performances ever created, Little Shop of Horrors, is the story of a man who sacrifices his morals in search of fame and in the process creates a man-eating plant.
• Miracle on 34th Street: December 1 - 11
  A classic Christmas movie comes to life on stage as a girl's belief brings validity to a department store Santa. 
• Proof - January 12 - 22
  A Tony Award-winning drama portrays the life of a young woman coming to terms with her own identity after growing up with a famous but unstable father. 
• Always...Patsy Cline - February 2 - 12
  This show is dedicated to the famous singer Patsy Cline who was killed in a plane crash in 1963. The performance tells the story of Cline's friendship with a fan.

Venice Theater
One of the largest community theaters in the country, the Venice Theater is conveniently located near Venice homes for sale. It hosts dozens of performances throughout the year. Here are some of the highlights of this upcoming season:

• The Revolutionists - September 16 - October 2
  This performance tells the story of four women beheaded during the French Revolution. 
• Kinky Boots - October 21 - November 2
  Winner of 6 Tony Awards, Kinky Boots is a classic musical with an emphasis on friendship, fashion, and diversity as well as many big hits.
• A Christmas Carol -  Dec 9 - 20
  A classic the whole family will enjoy during the holiday season.
• The Cemetery Club: January 20 - February 12
  A popular Broadway production, this romantic comedy is about the lives of three women who meet for tea prior to visiting their husbands' graves.

Manatee Performing Arts Center
With a history spanning back to 1947, Manatee Performing Arts Center has delighted visitors and locals with stage productions near Bradenton homes for sale. There are many different ways to catch a show on their stage, but theater fans can keep their calendar full with shows when signing up for their 22-23 Manatee Players Musical Series. Musicals in that series include:

• Gypsy - October
• The Music Man - December
• Next to Normal - January
• Company - March
• Sunset Boulevard - April/May

The best part about seeing a community theater performance? When you love the community that you live in!  Contact us today for more information on local listings.

Nestled at the mouth of the Peace River, Charlotte Harbor is a captivating mix of old and new. When our real estate agents have out-of-town guests or just want to get away, they head for these wonderful attractions around Charlotte Harbor.

1. Fishermen's Village - 1200 W. Retta Esplanade, Punta Gorda, FL 33950
   Whether you're a tourist or a resident near Punta Gorda homes for sale, you'll always have fun spending a day at Fishermen's Village. Book a sightseeing harbor cruise, head out on a fishing boat or explore on your own with a kayak or paddleboard. Landlubbers can do a different type of exploring through more than 30 boutique stores or rent a four-person surrey bicycle to pedal around the village. Make it a staycation at the all-suite resort with luxury amenities and spectacular views. 
   
   
2. Peace River Wildlife Center - 3400 Ponce de Leon Pkwy., Punta Gorda, FL 33950
   Get an up-close look at some fascinating creatures at Peace River Wildlife Center. Founded in 1985, the center takes in orphaned and injured animals and birds for rehabilitation. Wildlife that cannot be returned to their natural habitat are cared for at the center. Current residents include bald eagles, owls, turtles, opossums, and rabbits. Visitor hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. daily. Admission is free, but donations are gratefully accepted.
   
   
3. Ponce de Leon Springs State Park - 2860 Ponce de Leon Springs Rd., Ponce de Leon, FL 32455
   Ponce de Leon Springs State Park is well worth the trip. The namesake spring, created from a convergence of two underground water flows, maintains a constant temperature of 68°F year-round. Hardy souls dive right in, while others are content just to dip their toes. Two hiking trails pass through hardwood forests, home to a number of native plants and animals. Other activities in the pet-friendly park include fishing, geocaching, and picnicking. Hours are 8 a.m. - sunset, seven days a week. Admission is $4 per vehicle.
   
   
4. Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum - 880 Belcher Rd., Boca Grande, FL 33921
   Back at the turn of the 20th century, the steady glow of a lighthouse guided sailors into Charlotte Harbor. Today, the Port Boca Grande Lighthouse & Museum showcases life in those earlier days. The museum is just minutes from Boca Grande homes for sale, but you'll feel worlds away as you view the hands-on collection of fossils and shells. Other exhibits focus on Spanish and Calusa culture, tarpon fishing, and the local phosphate industry. Museum hours are 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday through Saturday. Admission is included with the $3 per vehicle fee to enter Gasparilla Island State Park.
   
   
5. Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens - 5827 Riverside Dr., Punta Gorda, FL 33982
   Mother Nature's creations and manmade artwork combine for an unforgettable display at Peace River Botanical & Sculpture Gardens. The 30-acre waterfront property encompasses five different ecosystems, including marshlands, mangroves, and a tidal basin. "The Thinker," one of the delightful sculptures, is a whimsical take on Rodin's original, with the subject wearing jeans and running shoes. "Next Summer," which floats in the lower pond, features a bathing beauty perched on an inner tube. The gardens are open 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Tuesday through Sunday. Admission is $18 for adults and $9 for students.

Charlotte County is a great place to call home. If you're buying or selling a home, contact us at Wagner Realty for cheerful and qualified assistance with all your needs.

If you're looking forward to a healthier you in 2020, then you're in luck. CrossFit is an excellent workout option to help you accomplish any fitness goal. Whether that goal is to improve health or weight loss, Crossfit can help you get in better shape. The program works for everyone—people who are just starting out and people who have trained for years. These CrossFit gyms in Manatee and Sarasota counties offer an intense workout to help you along on your fitness journey!

• Seaward CrossFit - 1127 Goodrich Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236
  Reaching and surpassing your goals is the name of the game at Seaward Crossfit. Their training methodology and programming is based on more than nine years of experience in CrossFit training and coaching for CrossFit Headquarters. The diverse staff of fitness experts at Seaward Crossfit also brings to the table experience in everything from gymnastics and martial arts to OPEX Fitness and Baptiste yoga. Just minutes from these Sarasota homes for sale, Seaward CrossFit is an incredible place to improve your health.
  
  
• Real Fitness Sarasota - 4728 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
  What makes Real Fitness Sarasota stand out among all the CrossFit gyms in the Sarasota area is their culture of support and inclusiveness. Great coaches and community make it a perfect place to unleash your best self. Take a look at their full lineup of classes and programs near Siesta Key homes for sale. 
  
  
• CrossFit Lena - 5261 Paylor Ln., Sarasota, FL 34240
  CrossFit Lena is committed to getting you in the best shape of your life. But more importantly, they have a staff of friendly, talented coaches. It's about getting in shape the right way. Plus, with some of the best Sarasota homes for sale, just a stone's throw away, you never have to drive too far to hit the gym. 
  
  
• Rack Star Athletics - 4608 E. State Rd. 64, Bradenton, FL 34208
  The folks at Rack Star Athletics are deeply dedicated to health, fitness, and family. Not only that, but they make working out fun. With programs ranging from strength & conditioning to personal training and individualized nutrition coaching, it's a great place to introduce yourself to CrossFit. Located in the lovely community of Bradenton, Rack Star Athletics is within minutes of Parrish homes for sale. 
  
  
• CrossFit Manatee - 5645 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209
  One of the coolest things about CrossFit Manatee is that they offer a free "Introduction to CrossFit" class. That way, if you're new to CrossFit, you get a perfect inside look at exactly how CrossFit works. That makes it easier to know upfront if it's right for you. With a beautiful location in Bradenton near the banks of the Manatee River, CrossFit Manatee is just a short drive from many great Anna Maria homes for sale.
  
  
• CrossFit 941 - 10530 Portal Crossing #103, Bradenton, FL 34211
  A top-notch Olympic Weightlifting and strength & conditioning facility, CrossFit 941 is dedicated to building a strong community of members through hard work and commitment. Ever since they opened their doors in 2013, they've been creating a safe and effective environment for their community. CrossFit 941 is just 20 minutes from the heart of Sarasota, and right around the corner from these lovely Parrish homes for sale. 
• CrossFit Havoc - 801 7th Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34205
  Accomplish your fitness goals with CrossFit instructors with over 20 years of experience when you sign up for CrossFit Havoc. Located right around the corner from Bradenton homes for sale, CrossFit Havoc classes, games, and an open gym to help support you on your fitness journey. 

Contact us today to learn more about life in the Manatee and Sarasota area. Our REALTORS® have helped countless families find their dream homes in Florida, and we can't wait to help you find yours!

Before you know it, the days for holiday shopping will dwindle. If you're still looking for a few last-minute gifts, our REALTORS® suggest shopping local. Here are just a few of the many wonderful and unique stores around Bradenton and Sarasota.

1. Created Gems — 5212 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, FL 32424
   Jewelry is always an excellent gift for that special someone, and Created Gems is a fantastic place to find fantastic affordable pieces for every style. Shop their selection of earrings, slides, rings, and bracelets all set in 14 karat gold or platinum-finished sterling silver. Stop by when you're in town looking at Siesta Key homes for sale. 
   
   
2. Florida Olive Oil — 307 W. Venice Ave., Venice, FL 34285
   Chances are high that there's someone on your shopping list who loves cooking. Help them savor every meal at home with specialty oils, vinegars, spices, and sauces from Florida Olive Oil. Located just minutes from waterfront Venice homes for sale, Florida Olive Oil has fine quality ingredients that make any meal a masterpiece.
   
   
3. Just/Because — 7 S. Blvd. Of Presidents, Sarasota, FL 34236
   Stroll along St. Armand's Circle next time you're visiting Sarasota homes for sale and stop into Just/Because to grab a few fabulous stocking stuffers. This boutique shop has a variety of home accessories from more than 50 talented Floridian artists. Gifts for him and her include cosmetic bags, décor, wine racks, kitchen items, jewelry, and more. 
   
   
4. Charley's Boutique — 5761 Manatee Ave. W., Bradenton, FL 34209
   Voted as one of the favorite local boutiques in town, Charley's Boutique has the best casual and formal wear from around the country. Their fashionable selection includes women's clothing, accessories and shoes, books, candles, lotions, soaps, and adorable baby gifts. Find something for the fashionista in your life with a trip to Charley's next time you're searching for Bradenton homes for sale.
   
   
5. Vanessa Fine Jewelry — 8131 Lakewood Main St., Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
   Give a gift that truly sparkles when you get your loved one a gift from Vanessa Fine Jewelry. This local jewelry shop near Lakewood Ranch homes for sale offers collections from world-renowned designers. Stop in and find jewelry that will impress this holiday season. Or have the team make something one-of-a-kind and inquire about custom designing. You can't go wrong with a trip to Vanessa Fine Jewelry. 
   
   
6. Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki — 112 Bridge St., Bradenton Beach, FL  34217
   Give the gift of Vitamin Sea at Sea-renity Beach Spa & Bou-tiki. Located on Historic Bridge Street steps from Bradenton Beach homes for sale, this oyster of Anna Maria Island shopping carries art, souvenirs, jewelry, clothing, and more! However, we believe the ultimate gift you can give is a private beach massage. Trust us — a relaxing massage or couples massage on the calm shores of the Gulf is a gift of serenity anyone will love!

Don't save your shopping for Bradenton and Sarasota homes for sale until the last minute! Contact us to begin your search!

No-Shave November has blown up in recent years, with men all over the world letting their beards grow wild as a way to raise awareness and money to fight cancer. Our REALTORS® have always been happy to take part, but when November draws to a close, we're about ready for a shave. 

Luckily, we have some great barbers in Manatee and Sarasota Counties. So when No-Shave November ends and you're ready to kiss your beard goodbye, these local barbershops are the places to go. 

• Locals Barbershop LLC - 3322 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34205
  Bradenton's Locals Barbershop LLC is one of our go-to spots for a shave, trim or haircut in Manatee County. No appointments are needed, but you can book one online. You'll always find three barbers on duty, ready to hook you up with whatever style you need. With a location near many Bradenton homes for sale, a great haircut is never far away.
  
  
• Captain Kirk's Midway Barber - 6836 14th St W, Bradenton, FL 34207
  A Bradenton staple since 1993, Captain Kirk's Midway Barber offers snips and shaves with great prices and a friendly atmosphere. They do master cuts for men, women, and kids, so whether you need a quick beard trim, a clean shave or a trendy fade, they'll get the job done for you. Plus, the convenient location is close to many Bradenton homes for sale. 
   
• Just Gents Barber & Spa - 126 N Orange Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
  Yes, men need to pamper themselves now and then. And when they do, they go to Just Gents Barber & Spa, Sarasota's premier grooming service. Perfect for guys who want to look great, feel great, relax, and rejuvenate. Just Gents is located right around the corner from these Sarasota homes for sale and offers a wide range of body, hair and skincare products and services, specifically designed for men.
  
  
• Sarasota/Bradenton Hair Salon - 3645 Cortez Rd W #140, Bradenton, FL 34210
  Men and women alike will get a great trim or cut at Sarasota/Bradenton Hair Salon. Haircuts and shaves for men range in styles from fun to funky and always come with a low price tag. Plus, every service comes with a one-week guarantee, so if you're not happy with your fresh look, you can always come back after looking at Bradenton homes for sale. 
  
  
• JD Barbary Shoppe - 8111 Lakewood Main St # 104, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202
  In some corners, traditional barber skills are a dying art. But not at JD Barbary Shoppe. Here is a place you can stop in any time for a classic haircut experience, courtesy of master barbers who are well versed in all the tonsorial arts. From traditional straight-razor shaves to modern-day trimming techniques, JD Barbary Shoppe offers something genuinely timeless. Look for their authentic striped barber pole on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch, minutes from these Lakewood Ranch homes for sale. 
  
  
• Venice Island Barber Shop - 505 S Tamiami Trail, Venice, FL 34285
  Established in 1961, Venice Island Barbershop is your father's barbershop, but that doesn't mean it can't be yours too. Decked out in vintage barbershop style, the shop is home to five antique barber chairs, with a talented barber stationed at each one. Just up the street from Venice homes for sale, Venice Island Barbershop offers an ideal mix of modern trends and timeless style.

Contact us to learn more about life in Manatee and Sarasota Counties! Our team has helped families find their dream homes of Florida's Sunset Coast, and we're committed to helping you find yours.

Yoga has helped people of all ages improve their breathing, balance, and alleviate stress levels. 

Luckily, residents of Sarasota and Manatee Counties have plenty of yoga studios to choose where to improve their yoga practice. These yoga studios have expert instructors and supportive classes ready and able to help you work out the knots and bring your daily life back into balance. Find your center at one of these area yoga studios. 

• Pineapple Yoga Studio - 517 S Pineapple Ave, Sarasota, FL 34236
  The team at Pineapple Yoga Studio are experts at helping you bring light and love into your life. They keep their classes small so that you receive plenty of personalized attention. They also offer numerous retreats and workshops so you can develop a deeper connection with your inner self as you ponder Sarasota homes for sale. 
  
  
• Balance Pilates and Yoga - 5120 Manatee Ave W, Bradenton, FL 34210
  If you are eager to bring your life back into balance, be sure to look into Balance Pilates and Yoga. They can help strengthen your body, engage your mind, and nurture your spirit so you can relax before seeing Bradenton homes for sale.
  
  
• Salty Buddha Co. - 2219 Gulf Dr. N, Bradenton Beach, FL 34217
  When life gets tough, get salty with it! At Salty Buddha Co., they will teach you how to stand up and blow with the breeze when the storms start to rise. Their instructors will take you out on the water so you can roll with the waves and help you dig your heels into the sand for those times when you need to stand firm. As you become one with nature, you can look around and see the fantastic Bradenton Beach homes for sale.
  
  
• Yoga Girlie - 907 5th St W, Palmetto, FL 34221
  Yoga Girlie LaRae Brownewell has a passion for helping people. She is a master at helping her students find peace so that they can enjoy prosperity. Since 2000, she has built her studio into one of the best studios in Palmetto. That is why many people who purchase Palmetto homes for sale look her up when they need to work out their stresses.
  
  
• My Tranquility Farm - 13710 Golf Course Rd, Parrish FL 34219
  If you want to try something different and out of the ordinary, then consider a day doing yoga with goats at My Tranquility Farm. This unorthodox approach might be the ticket for helping you sort through the listings and decide which Parrish homes for sale you want to see. A day at Tranquility Farm is a one-of-a-kind experience you won't find anywhere else in the state.
  
  
• Dragonfly Ayurveda and Yoga - 439 Tamiami Trail #202, Venice, FL 34285
  Searching for some peace and quiet? You will find plenty at Dragonfly Ayurveda and Yoga, where they will make it easy for you to sort through and sift out the noise of daily life. This fabulous studio offers small classes and personalized instruction guaranteed to help you relax and decide the best Venice homes for sale for you and your family. 

Our REALTORS® know Florida is the best place in the country to rest and relax. When you contact us, we will do our best to help you identify the ideal community and the perfect home for you to buy.