Our Town 1.03.13

+ Stone soup
Wilkinson Elementary School students enjoy items harvested from their school garden in a school-wide celebration of “stone soup,” Wednesday, Dec. 19. The project began Monday, Dec. 17, as students began harvesting the garden items, such as carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, spinach and beans before eating the soup for lunch.

As part of the project, Assistant Principal Melodie Deeds read the story “Stone Soup” to students in the school’s media center.
 
+ Excellence awards presented
The Downtown Sarasota Alliance recently honored merchants at its annual dinner, Dec. 12. The awards, which spanned four categories, were presented by Tony Souza, the 2012 vice chair.

In the category of outstanding downtown outdoor dining, Marina Jack took first place, followed by Americano and Café Epicure.

In the category of outstanding downtown storefront, Brooks Brothers took first place, followed by Campbell Cabinetry and Designs and Penzeys Spices.

Hyde Park Prime Steakhouse took first place in the category of outstanding downtown restaurant, followed by Selva and Pomona.

Downtown retailers were also recognized at the dinner. Art to Walk On was honored with a first-place designation, followed by Ioptics and Brooks Brothers.