A new column for a new season

In the seventh grade, my best friend Roslyn and I were called to the principal's office regarding a rumor that we were going to streak (it was a thing in 1973) during the eighth grade graduation exercises. Although innocent, we were nonetheless nervous. Fast forward to summer 2024 in a town known for its high-volume fundraisers and photographers a plenty as this photojournalist — again a tad nervous — was invited to a meeting with the Observer's executive editor and COO, Kat Wingert.

"We want to revive Black Tie and Tales covering Sarasota society and events. Would you like your own weekly column?" she asked.

Gulp.

Me?

When James Gordon Bennett created the first society column back in 1840 for the New York Herald, he could not have envisioned that entertainment news would end up as a $3 billion business complete with paparazzi, car chases and dedicated publications, or that Rona Barrett, Cindy Adams and Perez Hilton would be household names.

I had to contain myself from jumping up and yelling, "Yes, I want to be the Ted Casablanca of Sarasota with a knack for aggregating like Matt Drudge, but I don't want to end up like Hedda Hopper feuding with Louella Parsons!"

With confidence gained from years of writing articles and cutlines, and politely interrupting conversations to get photos (not all pictures are stealth candids), I responded with an emphatic "Yes!"

"Wow, you will be the local Lady Whistledown, writing about the Ton!", said my friend, Kathryn, referencing the Netflix show “Bridgerton” that I don't watch, but imagine several of you do. So, in that vein, I continue: Dearest Gentle Readers, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to the start of this season. For those of you who are not aware, my name is Janet Combs. If you know me or not, please reach out with your tidbits of interest: Anonymity is guaranteed upon request.

A party guest who found himself spending retirement funds buying entire tables at several events during season explained how to become a guest at a table paid for by someone else: Keep your tux or gown pressed. Prove yourself charming, a great conversationalist (no politics, please!) and reliable so you can dine and schmooze at no expense. Seat-filler, anyone?

So with pencils sharpened, notebooks filled with clean white pages, and winter black attire taking the place of summer black attire in the California Closet, this photographer looks forward to seeing you in front of her Canon as you support your favorite cause during this season. Please stop and say hi.

Although we are all no doubt looking forward to events beginning again, although more slowly now thanks to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, here are a few tidbits you may have missed from the summer:

Congratulations to SPARCC's Communication Manager, Ning Tinsley, and husband, Brian, who welcomed their first child, Ray, on July 25. This bouncing baby boy arrived at 7 lbs. and 14 oz. 

Ray's first SPARCC visitors were President and CEO Jessica Hays and Vice President of Philanthropy Mary Ellen Mancini, who brought a novel baby gift: a bottle of Sweet Baby Ray's Original BBQ sauce. Ning says, "A new chapter has begun, and it's filled with more love than we could have imagined.” Welcome to the world, sweet baby Ray!

In late August, Sarasota Attorney Jacob Gelber celebrated his 50th year with 50 of his friends on the 19th floor of his new residence overlooking the bay. 

Hosted by the gal who stole his heart was none other than Sarasota fave Elizabeth Moore, who was her usual radiant self as she easily floated among guests enjoying the specialties of Chef Rich Knowles and Innovative Dining while taking in a stunning sunset from the top shelf.