Category: Creative Loafing

The numbers on diabetes in America are pretty astounding: More than 24 million citizens suffer from it, and nearly 57 million are at risk. It was those statistics that convinced Andy Mandell — that’s Mr. Diabetes® to you, stranger — to spend nearly a decade walking the entire perimeter of the U.S. raising awareness. Yep, the entire perimeter, all 10,000 miles of it. This Sunday, Mandell makes a stop at the first ever Florida Orange Festival, which benefits the Defeat Diabetes Foundation and features live music and health screenings. Don’t wait till the weekend to get involved, though. Visit the event’s website today and submit an entry in the orange recipe contest. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Sun., Dec. 14, PAL Sailor Circus, 2075 Bahia Vista St., Sarasota, $3 per person or $10 for a family of five, 362-7632 or popsextras.org.

Believe it or not, Winterfest is more than just a seasonal beer. Anna Maria Island Art League is holding its 21st Annual Winterfest Fine Arts Festival this weekend. Over 100 artists from the region have been selected to participate in one of the oldest and largest juried arts and crafts festivals in Manatee County. The Young at Art children’s exhibit, the Cajun and bluegrass music, the variety of specialty foods: All these are sure to add to the atmosphere of the celebration. Sounds a lot better than the winter atmosphere I’m used to: numb fingers and snowy shoes. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Dec. 13 and 14, Holmes Beach City Hall Park, 5901 Marina Drive, Sarasota, free, 778-2099 or islandartleague.org.

Go see comedian Philadelphia at McCurdy’s Comedy Theater. Philadelphia is a high-energy entertainer who has been a favorite on many international cruise lines. The comedian was also featured on America’s Got Talent.

McCurdy’s Comedy Theatre, 3333 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota (925-3869 or mccurdyscomedy.com). 7:30 p.m. Dec. 10-14 and 9:45 p.m. Dec. 12-13. Tickets are $6-$12.