2010 STARTS OFF WITH A BANG...

I just came face-to-face with computer Hell. I need to upgrade some software in order to continue sending out my blog but Apple changed operating systems and no longer supports new software for mine. So I bit the bullet and bought a new computer. Sounds good, but until I have a little time to set it up and transfer files, I can't work on it. And so my adorable new little Mac Mini (barely the size of a few decks of cards) sits on the table waiting for me. It probably won't happen until this weekend because too many things are going on.

This Friday & Saturday the Village hosts it's annual STUDIO TOURS from 12-3. It's when participating galleries have demos enabling one to see what really goes on behind the artistic curtain. Look for a list detailing who/what/where when you visit. At Bonni Bakes we'll be balancing the needs of serving lunch during those hours and offering demos. On Friday Anna will be sharing secrets for decorating sugar cookies. Saturday I hope to show how to make those delicious Asian Summer Rolls, if my fingers don't freeze during this brrrrrrrrrrr cold snap.

Then Friday evening from 5-7pm we're celebrating the opening of the Village of the Arts Welcome Center and you're invited to join us. Since I'm directionally challenged they made it easy...it's right next door to Bonni Bakes in the same little building as The Manatee Arts Council (now known as Manatee County Cultural Alliance) 928 12th Street West. It will be staffed by Village folks from 10-4 Tues-Sat to answer questions, showcase items from each gallery and to enhance your visit to the Village. Please stop by.

Now for a little nepotism. My very talented film-maker son Rob has asked for my support, and of course I'm asking you to lend a hand as well. He's a graduate of the FSU Film School. He has written and produced a 2 minute comedy short called "Carpool Therapy" which has been selected as a finalist in a video contest sponsored by Nikon! Rob writes "there are big prizes at stake, and I could use a hand...

If you have two minutes (literally), kick back and enjoy the film. Here's the link: http://www.nikonfestival.com/blog/2009/12/14/carpool-therapy-first-day/

Then please click on a star rating above the video... I'm partial to five stars, myself. Just as important, please help spread the word by sending the link around, telling your colleagues, posting to your blog, ruminating with your shrink, making a macaroni collage for your mom, whatever-- it all helps! Thanks everyone!! And very happy holidays!!! Voting ends Jan 13th. Rob"

I've seen this film and it's very funny...very short...and he could use the prizes. Please vote early & often. Thanks!

Our friends at The Manatee Players are holding another fundraising dinner at Bonni Bakes on Saturday Jan 16 with seatings at 5:30 & 7pm. This time Rick' Kerby's 3-course menu includes a Champagne Toast, hors d'oeuvres, seafood cocktail, wild mushroom risotto, braised lamb shank, roasted vegetables, coffee and decadent desserts. Call them directly at 941-748-5875 to reserve...seating is limited. Can't wait to finally see them established in their new digs.

I know that menu had to make you hungry, but lunch at Bonni Bakes this week is tantalizing in its own way. When the temps fall below 50 I think CHILI and I don't think you'll be disappointed. Even if you don't eat it, just hugging a warm bowl on a cold day can do wonders for your attitude.

Hugs from the kitchen,
Bonni
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THUR, FRI & SAT JAN 7 - 9 Bonni’s New York City LUNCH

SPICY, BEEFY, BONE-WARMING CHILI
A symphony of complex flavors in a bowl, including both ground & chopped steak. Served w/ sour cream, onion, cheddar & homemade corn bread on the side. $4

GERALDSON FARM PLATTER (V)
Enjoy this week’s organic veggies in an eggplant, tomato, broccoli & cheese individual torte served with a mixed green salad and crunchy Breadstix. $7.50

SES SALINAS SALAD (V)
Mixed greens, cukes, tomato, red onion, Spanish olives, chunky Feta cheese and Parmesan. Served with our Honey Dijon Vinaigrette $4 Add Chicken $2

PICK TWO Bowl of Soup, House Salad OR A Stromboli *7.50
*Florentine Stromboli w/spinach & tomato) (V) or Roasted Veggie Stromboli w/Feta (V)

HANDMADE 8” THIN-CRUST PIZZA (vegan available on request)
Naked Cheese - mozzarella, red sauce, Parmesan, fresh oregano (V) $6
New York - mozzarella, pepperoni, red sauce, Parmesan, fresh oregano $6
Mahon - mozzarella, spinach, tomato, red onion, red sauce, oregano (V) $7
Margherita - mozzarella, red sauce, tomato, Parmesan, basil, olive oil (V) $7
Chinese Chicken - hoisin, garlic, chicken, broccoli, mozzarella, scallions $7

THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL PIZZA
BBQ Chicken - bbq sauce, roasted chicken, onion, mushrooms & 2 cheeses $7

(V) = Vegetarian

DESSERT
Large Crunchy Cookie (assorted flavors) $1.25
Chocolate Orgasm Cookies (pkg of 4) $4.50
Cranberry Pistachio Biscotti (pkg of 2) $2.50
Chunky Muffin $1.75

DRINKS
Bottled Spring Water $1
Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Dr Pepper, Diet Dr Pepper $1
Brewed Raspberry Iced Tea or Hot Tea (assorted bags) $1.50
Our House Blend of Half-Caff/Half-DeCaff Flavored Coffee $1.50

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BONNI BAKES in the Village of the Arts
930 12th Street West
Bradenton, FL 34205
(941) 746-6647

Lunch Thur-Sat served 11-2 WE DON'T TAKE CREDIT OR DEBIT CARDS