Best of......

Writing for Florida Weekly's "best of" edition (which compiles Charlotte County's "obscure, scandalous, the whimsical and wondrous") is always lots of fun.  Throughout the year, I keep my eyes open for curiosities that warrant a "best of" blurb.  Here are a few of my favorite submissions this year (along with their back stories).

A few months back, my friend Dorrit asked, "What's the deal with that knight sitting in the middle of a field just over the bridge?"  I have to admit that I'd never noticed him!  Now we both know.

Best Knight in Shining Armor

>>Statue by Wilson Real Estate

Auctioneer about town Phil Wilson long ago promised his wife Linda a knight in shining armor. On a trip to Mount Dora, Wilson came upon this physical incarnation of his promise and couldn’t resist. Who says chivalry is dead?  

I have always been an avid reader of mysteries and thrillers. So you can imagine my surprise (and excitement) when I learned that the Board of the Visual Arts Center has a former Secret Service agent in its midst--Jared Yankwitt.  The Secret Service's loss is our gain.

Best Keeper of Secrets:  Jared Yankwitt

Netflix’ “House of Cards” might make being a secret service agent look glamorous (especially if you’re watching over the Underwoods), but former agent Jared Yankwitt confides that the job is actually pretty boring. He might just be being coy, though. After all, he did have a top secret security clearance.  

I am on the look-out for amusing signage throughout the year, and Calusa State Bank often has something to offer.  Earlier in the season the marquee read:  "When life gives you lemmings, make lemonade."  It got my attention, but also grossed me out.  I liked this one a lot more. 

Best (Boston) Accent:  Calusa State Bank

Most bank marquees remind passersby about community events or low mortgage rates. While Calusa State Bank’s marquees also serve this function, they sometimes provide a chuckle or a groan, depending upon your sense of humor.  Either way, they’re worth keeping an eye on. 

 

Everyone in Punta Gorda knows Bonnie Yonker and the Yoga Sanctuary.  Bonnie often includes pictures of her daughter Maya in the monthly newsletter.  Last year we named Maya "best budding yogi" for her incredibly cute "happy baby" asana.  I couldn't resist using her again this year.

Best Budding Yogi, Take 2:  Maya Yonker

For the second year running, Maya Yonker wins the prize for best budding yogi. Mom Bonnie owns the Yoga Sanctuary, and at the ripe age of 21 months Maya is now purposefully doing yoga poses. The question is: With her zen attitude, will Maya still subject her parents to the “terrible twos”? 

I still can't quite get my head around a sex shop in the middle of Port Charlotte.  I noticed the store last fall with its eye-catching sign, and it immediately went on my list.  Turns out that the store has been there years, although the signage was updated last fall.  When I spoke to the manager, he was quick to tell me that their customers are not just guys coming in to pick up something "for" their girlfriend.  His words were borne out the day I pulled over to snap this shot as a happy looking couple made their way to their car.

Best Toy Store:  Jack n Jill Adult Superstore

The Villages apparently don’t have anything on Charlotte County. Despite the County’s demographics, business is booming at this “adult entertainment store.” A new location will open in Venice later this year. Come one, come all.

I've already started putting my list together for next year.  Let me know if you see something just wacky enough to include!