IV Siesta Sand - March 2015 by Brion Palmer

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MARCH 2015 | 941.349.0194 | ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC | www.SiestaSand.net | COMPLIMENTARY

BEACH WEDDING

Julie Weaver of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Kraig Burzlaff of Andover, Massachusetts exchanged vows surrounded by family and close friends

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WORD OF MOUTH

Is a Roundabout REALLY Needed? By Roger Drouin For architect and Siesta resident Mark Smith, all the traffic on the Key isn’t a bad sign—Siesta is the No. 1 beach, after all. “There are a ton of people out here,” Smith said. But the cars aren’t lessening on the roadways during peak times of the year, and now the Florida Department of Transportation is considering options to handle the traffic while trying to improve pedestrian safety at one of the Key’s main intersections. A roundabout is one of the options for the Midnight Pass Road and Beach Road intersection, and this proposal has many who live and work on the Key wondering what the impacts will be on the major thoroughfare. “We have many questions,” said Alana Tomasso, Chair of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and General Manager at Midnight Cove. Tomasso wonders: How will a roundabout impact vehicle traffic—especially during events such as the annual Crystal Classic sand sculpting competition or when everyone leaves the beach during a rainstorm? Tomasso is not the only one asking questions. “Let’s assume they decide to do this and build it, how will the roundabout be built and when,” asks Michael Shay, President of the Siesta Key Association (SKA). But his biggest question echoes that of Tomasso: what happens to traffic once a roundabout is built? “We have enough of a problem right now, especially in season,” Shay said. Continued on page 28 Collision Summary & Collision Diagram for this intersection located on page 28

Right turn signal option

Roundabout option

The Many-Faceted Career of Charlotte Marin By Diana Colson The “Original Word of Mouth” now offering a Dinner Menu

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WHO’S PLAYING TONIGHT

An interview with Dean Johanesen

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ISLAND FISHMONGER

Charlotte Marin‘s life centers around the water. She double-majored in Biology and Spanish at Eckerd College and now holds a full-time job working as a marine biologist in fisheries. This entrepreneurial and beautiful young lady founded Mermaid Swim School, and has built it into a thriving business. She recently founded a swimsuit company called FLORIDITA SWIMWEAR, where she designs and produces handmade, luxury bathing suits in beautiful patterns and colors, all handsomely studded with embroidery and beading. Her fluent Spanish comes in handy, for her designs are produced at a factory in Medellin, Colombia. Born Charlotte Mansfield, she was raised in La Crosse, Wisconsin, located at the edge of the Mississippi River. Brought up by a young single mom, Charlotte spent an idyllic childhood enjoying nature, crafting and searching for new swimming holes. She attended Catholic School, where—as a young fashionista—she was forever pushing the limits of the dress code by wearing patterned tights and piling on the accessories. Continued on page 24

SKA

Working for You By Catherine Luckner, SKA Vice President

Siesta Key resident and owner of Floridita Swimwear, Charlotte Marin, with swimsuit model at the International Swim Fashion Week in Curacao. Photo by Nestor G. Zacarce.

23 years of Big Pass and island protection – SKA working for you. The ebb shoal of Sarasota Big Pass and channel have no history of dredging. Consideration for this area to be dredged, for either navigation or sand source, have been excluded based on its natural protective function from storm surge, erosion and its sand source for beach renewal. Big Pass has remained a naturally navigable channel through all years of known measurement. Dr. Leatherman, also known as “Dr.Beach”, once remarked he was amazed our Pass had never been dredged, as most Pass areas in Florida must now be artificially maintained. Our Siesta Key public beach has never required renourishment. In 1992 the “save our sand!” call to action was set in motion by Siesta Key Association and island residents. Continued on page 24

LOCAL MAPS & INFORMATION Some suggestions for day trips in water world from the Island Fishmonger, by Scott Dolan

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ARTS ON THE HORIZON...............26 SPRING COMES TO SIESTA KEY..... ................................................................32 ASSOCIATION MATTERS..............33

See Page 17

Abel’s Ice Cream at Village Walk’s HOPE in a BACK PACK In September 2010, a group of concerned citizens founded the Village Walk’s HOPE in a BACK PACK program to alleviate hunger among school children in Sarasota County. 100% of all funds raised are used to purchase food to meet the needs of these hungry children at Fruitville Elementary School. Volunteers have packed 148 bags of healthy food during the school year for weekly distribution to needy (K-5th) children in their special backpacks. This provides nutrition for children during weekends and holidays when they might otherwise be without a meal.

The annual fundraiser was held at the Village Walk clubhouse in mid-February and was attended by 229 Village Walk residents. The evening included food and beverages, performances by students, live music and a silent auction. Abel’s Ice Cream was on hand to serve ice cream to all attendees. “Many Village Walk residents are our customers and it is personally rewarding to give back for such a great cause organized by this community,” Bill Abel, owner of Abel’s Ice Cream said. Anyone interested in donating to this charity, please view their website at www.backpacks.kids@gmail.com or visit

Sharon Leber of HOPE in a BACK PACK and Bill Abel of Abel’s Ice Cream

Abel’s Ice Cream located at 1886 Stickney Point Road to get a donation pamphlet. Learn more about us at WWW.ABELSICECREAM.COM

Siesta Key Association meeting notes Community Reports Sheriff’s Office

Sgt. Scott Osborne said that there has been a crime spike in Central Sarasota, but things have gone well on Siesta Key. The main problems here have been illegal parking on North Shell Road and dogs on the beach. As for the Sunday Drum Circle, the Sheriff’s Office has put more manpower out there, and things have improved. The Sheriff’s Office is getting ready for Spring Break. From March 1st to the end of April, the population of Siesta Key triples causing the Sheriff’s Office to increase its presence. Sgt. Osborne introduced other members of his department, including Capt. John Walsh, who explained the pro-active philosophy of the department. “We like to go to where the people are. (When someone calls in a complaint) we like to be able to say that we know about the situation and are taking care of it.” Capt. Walsh plans to discourage crime during Spring Break by ramping up the presence of the Sheriff’s Office and creating a buffer around Siesta Key.

www.siestakeyassociation.com

2015 BREAKFAST MEETING

Saturday, March 7 • 8:30 AM St. Boniface Episcopal Church 5615 Midnight Pass Road, Room F

Coffee, Tea, JuiCe and BreakfasT BuffeT FREE BREAKFAST for all MeMBers WiTh a reservaTion,$15 for visiTors Join ska for $30 and reCeive 2 BreakfasT TiCkeTs Please make reservations by email: info@siestakeysassociation.com or by phone (941) 364-4880 (leave message, we prefer email) Meeting is 9:20 AM to 11:00 AM

Speaking at our Breakfast Meeting: The Honorable Alan Maio and County Administrator, Thomas Hunter

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Code Enforcement

John Lally said that he now has 3 to 4 illegal rentals going to court every month. All illegal rentals are reported to the Property Appraiser and the Tax Collector. When asked about parking, John Lally said YES, cars can be parked in private yards, but NO, private parties cannot charge for parking. John Lally said that if a citizen knows of any issue on Siesta Key that involves the County (fallen street signs, street lights out, etc.,) dial the County Call Center: 941561-5000. They will respond within 24-48 hours.

Sarasota County Office of Neighborhood Services

Miranda Lansdale urged all Neighborhood Associations to sign up for the Neighborhood Directory so as to be notified of pertinent meetings. The Office of Neighborhood Services provides grants for neighborhoods that wish to improve safety, preserve character and value, enhance physical and environmental health, and build leadership. Each applicant is eligible for up to $10,000 in matching funds. Grants have been given for such things as entry way signs, benches, doggy-bag stations, and shoreline restoration of retention ponds. For more information go to neighbor@ scgov.net, or call 841.861.5000.

FDOT & Options for Beach Rd. & Midnight Point Road Intersection

Bill Hartman and Ben Walker from the Florida Department of Transportation gave a presentation showing options for intersection improvement at SR 758 and Beach Rd. A roundabout is one of the 3 options presented. Read more about the options on this month’s front page article.

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COMMITTEE REPORTS: Environment

Catherine Luckner reported SKA hopes that the Lido shoreline will stabilize. The Corps of Engineers has not yet come up with its revised plan for the Lido re-nourishment project. They will be changing the profile of the groins and reducing their size. Wildlife issues are also coming to the fore, which creates permitting complexities. Waivers would need to be applied for and issued. This is not a speedy process. When the Corps finally comes up with their revised plan, there will be a second chance for public input.

Old Business

Water Waste Treatment Plant will be decommissioned in 2016. SKA will form a committee to study proper use after the decommissioning. Bob Stein will head that committee, and will be looking for member volunteers to serve. Avenida Madera & Avenida Milano : Michael Shay reported that these two streets have successfully petitioned to have parking bans. It’s a safety issue: parking on both sides leaves no room for Emergency Vehicles. SKA is pushing for some sort of ban against the parking of large vans or trucks in the Municipal Parking Lot, where they sometimes take up two or more spaces. This issue will come up before the County Commissioners. (Currently, all vehicles are allowed, but cannot be parked there for more than 72 hours.)

New Business

2015 Great American Cleanup will take place on March 21 in the early morning. The County provides t-shirts. SKA Annual Breakfast, Saturday, March 7, 8:00 – 11:00 AM This Annual Breakfast will replace the regular “First Thursday” meeting which would have been held on March 5th.

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Crescent Beach Grocery offers an interesting shopping experience Think of all the things you want in a grocery store on Siesta Key: • A complete selection of grocery items • Friendly, personal service • The best cold cuts and sandwiches you can find • Unusual and delicious salads made on the premises • Top-quality meats • Specialty items that you don’t find everywhere • Fresh produce • A fantastic selection of wines • Craft-brewed beers • A convenient location on the island • Historic photographs of Siesta Key • Delivery anywhere on the Key. All of these things – and more – are available to you at the Crescent Beach Grocery, courtesy of owners Nancy Connelly and Bill Singleton, who have dedicated themselves to providing great products, great service and an interesting shopping experience to the residents and visitors of Siesta Key. What you probably don’t think of in a small grocery is owners with multiple degrees in archaeology and anthropology and careers as far removed from retail sales as anyone could imagine. “I was a practicing archaeologist for several years, both here in the United States and in various African countries,” notes Bill. “After that, I directed Information Technology organizations in several colleges and universities. I don’t think I ever sold anyone as much as a can of beans or book of matches before coming to Sarasota and opening the grocery. So you can’t say that I was exactly well-prepared for this transition.” “Nancy, at least, has a background that is deeply connected to this property and this store. Her father, George Connelly, opened the first grocery, the Crescent Beach Grocery and Sundries (later The Beach Shop) on Siesta Key right here in 1952 and purchased the property later that year. He ran the grocery personally until his health failed and he was forced to sell the business in the ‘70’s. To the best of my knowledge, Nancy never actually worked at the store, but she did spend time here while growing

up.” Nancy earned a Ph.D. in anthropology and, after teaching for a few years, began a professional career as a Museum Director. Eventually, she became the Executive Director of a large national organization as well as its museum and school. “During this time, my mother’s health began to fail and, as an only child, I had to spend more and more time taking care of her and helping her manage the property,” notes Nancy. “It became obvious that she needed me full time, so Bill and I quit our jobs and moved to Sarasota to help her. Having made that decision, it became obvious that taking back the grocery was the best way for us to help my mother and make a living for ourselves.” “Once we made that decision,” says Nancy, we worked very hard to make sure that our grocery would be a place WE would like to shop and spend time. Whether you live on the Key or are visiting, once you get on the island, you don’t want to leave,” says Nancy. “One of our main goals was to make sure that grocery shopping is not something that will take you away from your island state of mind.” Bill, adds, “Something in our backgrounds made us very serious about providing for our customers’ needs and trying to find new items that make grocery shopping a time of discovery as well as an enjoyable experience. We have tried to incorporate that approach into how we run the store and its different areas.” One of the areas that the owners are extremely proud of is the delicatessen. “The Deli, under its Manager Roy Dimascio, has become a destination in its own right,” says Nancy. “We have a wide variety of items that we make here and Roy is always adding some different choices to our offerings. We get rave reviews from our customers for just about all of the new creations he and his staff add to our inventory. Roy also makes the Deli a fun place to visit with his positive attitude and great sense of humor.” As Bill notes, “Both Nancy and I have a background that is extremely service oriented and we view the grocery as a service to our customers as much as a place to buy things. We like to have fun and we

want our customers to have fun while they are here. After all, if you are a visitor, you are on vacation on a beautiful island with a world-class beach. If you are a resident, you live on a beautiful island with a worldclass beach. So why not enjoy yourself! If we can bring that attitude into the store with our customers, then we feel we are succeeding. And we think our customers will agree.” Part of the couple’s idea of having fun is to offer services like wine tastings to their customers. “We’re going to have about four tastings during the Season this year,” explains Bill. “We like to keep them small and personal and to have the opportunity to offer a number of wines to our customers that they may not have heard of.” It is not just a delicatessen and wine tastings that the Crescent Beach Grocery offers. “We are, after all,” says Nancy, “a grocery. In fact, our goal is to be the best small independent grocery in Sarasota. We have all of the normal grocery items and a number of things you won’t find elsewhere. We offer a top-notch deli with store-made salads, great quality meats and cheeses and the best sandwiches on the Key -- all of which are made to order. Our meat is famous, and not just on the Key. People come across from the mainland just to buy steaks here.” “I could go on and on about the store,” enthuses Nancy, “because I just love it. But the best thing for people to do is come here and see for themselves. We are open from 8 am to 9 pm every day. Come visit us, and while you are here, check out the pictures of historic Siesta Key that we have hanging throughout the store and enjoy yourself. Maybe you’ll even find something to buy.”

Owners Nancy Connelly and Bill Singleton Crescent Beach Grocery

Meet Roy our Deli Manager

Crescent Beach Grocery 1211 Old Stickney Point Road Siesta Key (941)312-0472 www.crescentbeachgrocery.com Sodas from our childhood

941.349.0194 • www.islandvp.com ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC

Discussion to address Siesta Key Village parking problem begins again Anyone looking for a parking spot during Season knows how difficult it is to come by. This is nothing new since the Village has been experiencing a parking shortage for years. The recent Craft Fair in the Village compounded the problem when many of the crafters took up valuable space to park their vehicles and trailers. Couple that with the latest parking ban imposed in late January when the Sarasota County Commission elected to forbid parking on the south side of two Siesta Key streets; Avendia Milano and Avendia Madera. Residents petitioned for the parking restrictions last year. The loss is over 20 spots. Then you have business employees who need a place to park. By the way, the Key was just named the #1 beach in the US by TripAdvisor so you can imagine how many first-time visitors will be coming to Siesta beach and the Village only to be frustrated by the lack of parking. On February 9, a meeting was requested by a longtime local realtor to begin a dialogue with local officials on viable solutions to the parking woes.

Newly elected County Commissioner Alan Maio along with five county staffers met with the presidents of the Siesta Key Village Association, Wendell Jacobsen from Beach Bazaar, Michael Shay from the Siesta Key Association, Debra-Lynn Schmitz Executive Director of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and Mark Smith Vice President of the SKVA. Numerous ideas were discussed at length. The plans included some previous suggestions such as looking at potentially converting an area on Ocean Blvd., across the street from the Old Salty Dog in front of Whispering Sands, to angle parking picking up 15 to 20 spots. Another area discussed was allowing some angle parking in the residential Mira Mar Neighborhood that now only allows permit parking. This is the area to the southwest of the Village and is bounded by Avenida Messina to the north, Beach Road to the south and west and Avenida Navarra to the east. John Lally from Sarasota County was one of the county officials present. Lally brought up the possibility of using

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

vacant lots close to the Village for the employees of Village businesses to use for a fee. Another idea was to compensate through insurance and credits the use of private parking lots throughout the Village once these businesses close for the day. Then there was the plan to use the public beach parking lot after 5PM and have the free taxi services transport the visitors. A look back at the Sarasota County Siesta Key Village Parking Study from 2008 shows some possible solutions. At the time the study outlined a 300 plus shortage of parking. As one of the residents recently commented at the Local Bean Coffee Shop, “The Village is like the downtown of Siesta Key. If you live next to the Village, like a downtown district it has advantages and disadvantages. You have the advantage of the quaintness of being able to stroll down the street on a quiet morning, enjoy a cup of coffee and talk with friends. But like a downtown district it becomes the hub for entertainment with the same parking issues downtowns face.”

Siesta Key Round-Up By Robert Frederickson & Bob Stein Shifting Sands in Local Supermarket Landscape

The supermarket landscape continues to shift locally as smaller newcomers to the market nip at the heels of industry giant Publix. Whole Foods announced last month it will add a second area location with plans for a new store at the southwest corner of University Parkway and Honore Avenue near the recently opened UTC Mall. The new location will reportedly be roughly the same size as Whole Food’s existing store in downtown Sarasota. Meantime, according to Stan Rutstein of Re/Max Alliance in Bradenton, the Fresh Market is widely considered to be a lock to anchor the new Siesta Promenade center being developed by Benderson Development along the northern approach to the Stickney Point Bridge leading to the Key. Rutestein was quoted in a recent Herald Tribune story by Justine Griffin as saying “It’s common knowledge that when Benderson rolls that out the Fresh Market will be in there.” Whole Foods operates 420 stores nationally, but is expanding rapidly with plans to add upwards of 1000 locations over the next decade. The continued growth of the smaller store chains continues to fuel speculation that industry leader Publix will soon announce an aggressive “pocket” store strategy of its own and rumors on Siesta continue to center on a possible smaller store replacing the Wells Fargo bank branch on Midnight Pass Road. Some Publix employees have even reported rumors of a planned island development that would combine a smaller Publix with a liquor store and a condo development. Continued on page 5

Village Café owners raise funds for the Pine View Band’s Coaching Program Over 175 supporters attended the “Toast & Roast” for Kay and Tom Kouvatsos, owners of the Village Café in Siesta Key Village. The event was held at The Heritage Oaks Country Club to raise funds to begin a coaching program for the Pine View Band. The dinner was followed by a roast that had everyone in stitches. Both Kay and Tom grew up involved in music and introduced their children to it at an early age. They have always valued music for its therapeutic benefit, mental development, as well as the pure enjoyment of it and wanted to come up with a meaningful way to help enhance Pine View’s premier music study program. The Kouvatsos Coaching Fund will help provide small group instruction for ALL band students throughout the year, every year. Kay noted, “The roast netted over $30,000 for the Coaching Fund. We are extremely grateful for all the love and support that was shown to us and to the music program that we believe so strongly in. Thank you to all those that played a part in this amazing event. And for anyone who missed the opportunity and would like to still donate, Pine View Band Boosters will still gladly accept those checks and credit cards. Contact Zoltan Karpathy at (941) 809-2229.” The jazz band’s next event is March 21, ‘Jazz under the Stars’ at 8:00 PM at the Pine View courtyard. It is a free event with donations accepted. Bring a chair or blanket if you want!

Siesta Key Round-Up

Mark Smith shared the following, “In college Tommy worked small clubs and brothels in upstate New York … where he met Kay.”

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The Pineview Band entertained the attendees. Continued from page 4

Far fetched? Yes, but stranger things have happened on Siesta. One thing is certain: Publix didn’t get to the top of the supermarket food chain by ignoring its competitors.

Another #1 for Siesta Key

Visit Sarasota County held a press conference on February 18, to announce Siesta Key’s newest award; the 2015 Travelers’ Choice Award for the best U.S. beach from TripAdvisor. Siesta Key ranked first out of 25 other beaches. St. Pete Beach and Ka’anapali Beach in Hawaii came in second and third place. Rain forced Brian Wigelsworth, owner of Gidget’s Coastal Provisions in Siesta Key Village and founder of the Siesta Key Crystal Classic Master Sand Sculpting Competition to design a smaller sculpture under the pavilion

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instead of the larger sculpture he originally proposed on the beach. He designed a sand version of the TripAdvisor’s award. He began work on Tuesday afternoon and completed the sculpture that evening. County officials and staff posed for photos along with the board members of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce.

Time to clean up the Key

Siesta Key Association will partner with Sarasota County for the Great American Clean-up. They will clean Siesta Beach, Ocean Blvd., and Higel Ave. from Ocean Blvd. to the north bridge, all at the same time. Continued on page 6

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Siesta Key Round-Up

Continued from page 5

The event will take place Saturday, March 21, and volunteers will meet at the Siesta Key Beach Pavilion at 8 am. The County will provide bags, gloves and T-Shirts. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Michael Shay at info@ siestakeyassociation.com . Please provide the size for your T-Shirt.

Street Bluegrass, Siesta Key Bluegrass Band, Florida Jam Band and Open Stage Jam. There will be Red Cross volunteers accepting donations. For more information please contact Benny Kimsey at 941-400-7212 or email him at turtlebeachbluegrass@gmail. com.

Bluegrass Picnic at Turtle Beach

15th Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Games: April 4, 9AM to Noon

Benny Kimsey’s annual Picnic will be held Saturday March 7 from Noon to 5 PM at Turtle Beach. The picnic is a FREE community event benefitting the American Red Cross Southwest Florida Chapter. Be sure to ask for your FREE LUNCH TICKET. Lunch will be served from Noon to 1:30 PM. They will provide hot dogs, sides and bottled water. There is limited seating so they encourage you to bring a chair and drinks. There will be four bands performing, shows start at noon and play until 5 PM. The bands performing are Tonga

The Siesta Key Village Association is sponsoring the 2015 Easter Party for Children Ages 1-6. This event will take place at beach access #5. Each child receives an Easter stuffed animal and an Easter egg hunt goody bag stuffed with a prize. Face painters will be there with opportunities to ride the trolley, tour the Siesta Key ambulance and fire truck and participate in other fun family entertainment. Sheriff Dept. fingerprinting kits will be available. Registration is limited

to the first 125 children. There is a $10 registration fee per child. For additional information contact Roz at 941-349-2770 ext: 227

Siesta Fiesta: April 11 - 12, 10AM to 5PM

The artists will line Ocean Boulevard with their professional display booths while the crafters will display their unique and affordable crafts throughout Siesta Key Village for a sidewalk craft fair. All artists and crafters will be present for the duration of the show, available to discuss their work and inspiration. Ocean Boulevard will be closed to vehicular traffic starting at Ocean and Canal and running through to Beach Road. The event appeals to people of all ages including serious art buyers looking to add to their collections. With a wide variety of art mediums on display and prices ranging from $25 hand-designed earrings to $30,000 metal sculptures, there is something for

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

everyone. For more information visit www.siestakeyvillage.org

29th Annual Run for the Turtles: April 4, 6:30 to 9AM

It’s time to dust off those running shoes and get ready for the 29th Annual Run for the Turtles. The Run supports sea turtle conservation and research at Mote Marine Laboratory and is the Sea Turtle Conservation Program’s major fundraiser — it’s helping Mote help sea turtles! The event is happening at Siesta Key Public Beach, 948 Beach Road. You can register online: www.active.com through March 30. The registration Fees are Adults: $30 through March 21, $35 from March 22, through race day . Children 10 & younger are $20 through March 21, $25 from March 22, through race day. On Race Day: Registration begins 6:30 a.m. at the Siesta Key Gazebo, south of the pavilion. The  1-Mile Fun Run or Walk

begins at 7:30 a.m. and the 5K Manasota Track Club-Sanctioned Run begins at 8 a.m. More Info: Contact Paula Clark, (941) 3884441, ext. 357 or pclark@mote.org

Vacant property being developed

The vacant lot at the corner of Givens St. and Ocean Blvd. is currently under contract. The potential owner will start conversations with the County for a variance to build within approximately 12 feet of the “footprint” seaward of Gulf Beach Setback Line. The building will have 9 units (3 per floor) with parking on ground level. Each unit will be approximately 3000 sq. ft.

Eight years and counting

Solórzano’s Pizzeria located in Siesta Key Village just celebrated its eighth year. Based on Trip Advisor comments, they can look forward to many more years. Continued on page 7

Siesta Key Round-Up “Outstanding pizza” We’ve never actually been to the restaurant but always call in a delivery order. Their “special” is our favorite, and one of the best pizzas we’ve ever had. Even the crust is excellent. The delivery man is always friendly and professional. They’re prompt and the pizza is always hot. Owner Phil says “Were Italian. We’re from Jersey. We were making pies before we even got to high school. Our father is a pizza man. Our grandfather is a pizza man. Most of our uncles and cousins are pizza men. None of this is new to us. We make dough and sauce from scratch daily, and we use only the finest Italian cheeses money can buy.” The pizzeria is located at 215 Avenida Madera and offer dine-in and take-out. They are open 7 days a week from 2:30 -11pm, 941-349-2767. You can see their ad/new menu and special offers on the back page of this month’s paper or go on line www.sbpsiestakey.com

St. BonifaceSiesta Key Fish Fry Fridays

FISH FRY FRIDAYS Enjoy a delicious fish dinner every Friday during Lent that includes fried Tilapia, macaroni and cheese, coleslaw, cornbread, dessert and a drink - and all for only $10! Meals are available for dinein or take-out in the Boniface Community Center 5 - 8 pm located at 5615 Midnight Pass Rd.

Weather update

This publisher’s father, a lifelong Wisconsin resident, recently commented on all the buzz he’s been hearing about Climate Change. My father is 92 years old and served in the US Army in the Pacific theater during WWII. He has been listening to the experts and pundits debate the reasons why we face such extreme weather patterns citing various data to support their hypothesis. His response, “BS! First it was Global Cooling in the ‘70s and we were going to freeze to death. When it started warming-up, it became Global Warming. For the past 15 years, the temperature has actually stayed flat and is now cooling. Because Mother Nature is not cooperating with their theory, they now call it

Continued from page 6

Climate Change. No, it is called WEATHER! and I have seen it all.”

Celebrating 18 years of business on Siesta Key

The Mail Pack Center located at 6547 Midnight Pass Road at the Southbridge Mall on the Key has celebrated its 18th birthday. Locally owned and operated by Jack and Hanna Gatkiewiczes. They moved to Sarasota from Chicago in 1993, but are originally from Poland. They can ship everything from a letter to a houseful and offer professional packaging and crating services of valuable and fragile items. Mail Pack center, Siesta Key is part of the Neighborhood Postal Center network and parcel centers in the country. For more information, call 941-346-3303 or stop in.

Beach University Program postponed

Due to the construction activity at Siesta Key, the Beach University Program has been postponed until 2016. The main Siesta Key Pavilion where this program has taken place in March, for the past five years, will be under construction.

One Year Anniversary for CB’s Island Outfitters

It was a year this month that we introduced the expansion of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters with the opening of their new sister store, CB’s Island Outfitters. This second store, located on the other side of Bank of America on Stickney Point Road, has allowed them to increase their retail brands and offer additional rental services to island visitors to better serve their needs.

New Business to Open on the Key

Island resident and holistic health and wellness coach, Marina Sommers, will be expanding her Nutritious You facility by opening a storefront on the south end of the Key. The shop will be located at 6583 Midnight Pass Rd, Unit 10, inside the courtyard between Siesta 4-Rent and Davidson’s Drugs. “I will have my kitchen there to continue with my wholesale production,” Sommers stated.

“The storefront will offer all of my products. Everything is organic, raw and vegan.” Offered for take-out will be a small selection of health products; Rosemary walnuts, mini granola bars, veggie pulp or sweet beet crackers and cheezykale chips. These healthy snacks are currently available at The Local Bean, in the Village, and other health food locations in Sarasota. There are no plans for a sit-down lunch/dinner option at this time, but nutrition workshops are a possible future addition. The opening is targeted for the end of March. You can learn more about Nutritious You on her website: www.NutritiousYou.com

Orange Octopus offering homemade, in-house ice cream

Orange Octopus, located in the Captain Curt’s Village on Old Stickney Point Road, introduced their first homemade ice cream produced in their shop back in August 2014. Their first flavor? Why good ‘ole vanilla ice cream. After all, if you can’t get the basics right, why bother? According to Kim Bennaji, owner of Orange Octopus, ”We decided to start making our ice cream on-site last year in order to serve the freshest handmade product to our customers and to have more control over the ingredients we use. Our goal was to use the highest quality, real ingredients to achieve the true homemade flavor. For example, our strawberry has real strawberries, not artificial strawberry flavoring or chemicals or coloring. People ask us about our Ooey-Gooey Brownie ice cream. All are pleasantly surprised by the difference in taste when real brownie batter and fresh baked chocolate brownies with our own secret recipe are used. The same basic idea goes for the rest of our flavors. We are very excited to bring a homemade and family made treat to our customers and we will not stop looking for ways to improve and bring exciting new flavors.” And now that all their flavors are homemade, it’s official and they can proudly say that they offer all homemade, in-house ice cream.

ecials p S k n i eat Dr r G A ll Day • d t e n v e r ainm age Se b b a Enter t C ef & e B d e Cor n “PRIVATE WATERFRONT BANQUET ROOM AVAILABLE FOR ANY OCCASION!!!” 941.349.0194 • www.islandvp.com ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC

News Up & Down the Trail Detert files film bill

Can Florida, and Southwest Florida regionally, attract more long-term film projects under a revamped and improved filmmaking incentive program? State Sen. Nancy Detert, R-Venice, thinks so. Detert filed a 66-page bill that would change how incentives are awarded to the film industry. Detert’s SB 1046 is aimed at attracting more longterm film projects to the Sunshine State. The bill would create the Entertainment Industry Quick Action Account with the state’s economic development fund. The bill would make film tax credits essentially a rebate program offered to filmmakers who prove they hire people in Florida and spent money in the state.

Another hotel planned

Downtown Sarasota could soon have hotels aplenty. And now add another prospective hotel to the list. Core Development President Kevin Daves is teaming up with Toronto-based Palsar Developments Inc. to propose a 200-room, 18-story Marriott Hotel and 40 condominium units at 332 N. Tamiami Trail. The development team submitted plans to the city, and the proposal was discussed at the city’s Development Review Committee Feb. 18. In addition to the hotel and condo units, the project will feature a restaurant, spa, retail and meeting/ ballroom space, according to preapplication documents submitted to the city. The proposed building is located in the Downtown Bayfront and Downtown Edge zoning area, with height ranging from 5 stories (in Downtown Edge) to 18 stories (in Downtown Bayfront). Over the past two years, five other companies have revealed plans for downtown hotel projects.

Spring training starts

The Baltimore Orioles start spring training this month. As the Orioles play spring ball, expectations will be high. High turnout is predicted again this spring after the team had a 96-66 regular season last year, winning their first American League title since 1997. The tentative season schedule shows 16 home Spring Training games for the Orioles this year at the recently-renovated Ed Smith Stadium, which has become known as “Birdland South.”

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

By Roger Drouin

The Orioles saw record spring training ticket sales in 2014, with nearly 90,000 tickets sold over 12 games at Ed Smith Stadium.

High-tech firm relocates

US Nano, a nanotechnology early-stage company, is moving South from Indiana—to Sarasota County. The move will allow the high-tech firm the ability to triple its employees and quintuple its space. The move, announced in January, comes after the company won a $750,000 National Science Foundation Small Business Innovation Research grant couple with securing $1 million from investors. US Nano develops electronic devices based on nanomaterials printed on plastic. The proprietary nanomaterial are nanowires, which have the potential for industry-transforming commercial applications because of their ability to measure and manipulate light and heat, which is at the core of numerous sensing, imaging, fiber optic and energy harvesting and storage applications. The company has won approval for a Sarasota County grant of $3,000 per new job created, and plans to create eight jobs the first year and two the second.

Whole Foods II

A second Whole Foods Market is coming to the area. The 40,000-square-foot organic grocery store will be built at Honore Avenue and University Parkway, close to the recently-opened The Mall at University Town Center, as announced in the Austin-Texasbased company’s first quarter earnings report. The new store will be constructed across the street from the Fresh Market. The University Parkway retail corridor near Interstate 75 has been experiencing commercial growth. No construction timetable has been finalized yet and a lease signed states the store is required to open within the next two years, according to a Whole Foods press release. The other Whole Foods in the area is at 1451 First St. in downtown Sarasota.

On the Move

The U.S. is a country on the move, and many residents are choosing the Tampa/Sarasota area. A new report out says the combined area is among the top ten for hot moving

destinations in the U.S. The report was put together by Penske Truck Rental. According to data compiled by Penske Truck Rental, do-it-yourself movers continue to migrate to the warm and sunny areas of the Southeast and Southwest. “The top half of our list are warm weather locales where our business interests have steadily increased,” said Don Mikes, Penske senior vice president of truck rental. Orlando was fifth on the list and the only other Florida market among Penske’s top 10. The other markets on the list: Dallas/Fort Worth (3), Phoenix (4), Seattle (6), Denver, (7), Houston (8), Chicago (9), Las Vegas (10)

Open planning seat

A vacancy on the county planning board has drawn five applicants. The board makes important decisions, especially during an economic recovery and upcoming comprehensive plan revision. Sarasota County commissioners will consider nominations for a vacancy on the Planning Commission March 4, following the resignation of Mike Moran, who is running for County Commission in 2016. Kevin Cooper, Mark Hawkins, Roland Piccone, Lourdes Ramirez and Andy Stultz have applied for the empty seat. County commissioners will choose the applicant, who will serve through January.

Comp Plan update

Sarasota County launched its comprehensive plan revision process in February. There will be public meetings, meetings with neighborhood and community groups and online options for submitting input. The county’s comprehensive plan guides its growth—from public transportation to utilities. Following the Feb. 11 kickoff meeting, the update will take the form of a series of cycles, with each cycle being discussed for a period lasting eight to nine weeks, according to Sarasota County. Meetings will be held along each step of the way. The cycles include: environmental systems; mobility; economic development; public utilities; land use and urban design; and quality of life. Continued on page 9

News Up & Down the Trail Keeping up with growth

Sarasota County Sheriff Tom Knight wants $800,000 more to hire more deputies to keep up with the growing population and patrol high-growth areas east of Interstate 75. Those areas, Knight told County Commissioners, include the commercial corridor at the new mall near University Parkway, and east of the interstate at Fruitville Road. Thousands of homes, retail centers and a business park are planned for this area of the county. The sheriff said he is concerned traffic problems and congestion could soon become too much for the sheriff’s office to handle. He is proposing adding a new patrol zone, which would require up to six more officers, at an estimated annual cost of about $130,000 dollars each. With the economic recovery, development has picked up again—with more slated—and much of the growth centered on the eastern reaches of the county.

Continued from page 8

SMH plans another addition

Sarasota Memorial Hospital is applying with the City of Sarasota for a new comprehensive rehabilitation facility that would replace the current 30-year-old facility. The hospital proposes to demolish the existing six-story, 29,465-square-foot Retter Wing and construct a five-story, 76,731-square-foot building with 7,803 square feet of ground level parking. Back in July, members of the community attended the City of Sarasota’s neighborhood workshop to learn about Sarasota Memorial’s proposed new comprehensive rehabilitation facility which would replace the current 30-year old unit located in the two upper floors of the hospital’s East Tower. According to the hospital, while it has undergone several décor changes over the years, the current rehabilitation facility is long overdue for major upgrades and renovations as it contains mostly

semi-private rooms and shared bathrooms. According to SMH, it will take two years to design and build the facility at an estimated cost of $40 to $46 million. The new facility is slated to open by the end of 2016. In order to accommodate the new building, a relocation of the private West Campus Drive and adjoining parking areas is proposed. A Major Encroachment is also proposed to allow connection to the Central Energy Plant, across the Hawthorne Street right-ofway. A variance application is also anticipated for the front yard setback along Arlington Street.

Downtown apartments sell

Artisan Cove Apartments LLC, a Sarasota company managed by Michael David Stockton, bought a 22-unit building at 1840 Morrill Street in downtown Sarasota for $1.85 million. The apartments were built in 1985. The apartment complex is located within downtown’s Laurel Park

neighborhood. The seller was Coastal Behavioral Healthcare Inc., a Sarasota company headed by John H. Minge III that paid $735,000 for the complex in June 1995, records show.

Improved Flood Maps

Sarasota County implemented a more user-friendly way to search proposed new flood risk maps, making it easier for residents to find out if their property is within the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s new flood areas. The agency is expanding the county’s high-risk zones to include another 42,700 properties. Maps by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) became a source of frustration after residents found that the maps were confusing to use. FEMA posted the maps online in anticipation of new floodplain mapping, which could mean financial implications as construction and insurance costs are impacted for some properties. Now using a link on the county’s Web site, property owners can plug in their address and see their

current flood zone and whether it is changing. The county’s interactive maps are designed to make it easier for property owners to find out where their parcel is in relation to the preliminary new floodplain maps. Property owners can visit the county’s new searchable flood zone map at https://ags2.scgov. net/sarcoflood/

Annual Gardens in Paradise tour

The Sarasota Garden Club is hosting their second annual Gardens in Paradise tour March 21, 2015. The 2014 tour, which showcased 5 private coastal gardens, was a fantastic success. Continued on page 30

941.349.0194 • www.islandvp.com ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC

The “Original Word of Mouth” now offering a Dinner Menu

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Since 1996 the Original Word of Mouth at 6604 Gateway Ave. in Gulf Gate Sarasota is still as good as day one - why change a winning habit? You are cordially invited to sit back, relax and enjoy a home cooked meal prepared by their kitchen. At the Original Word of Mouth, every seemingly insignificant detail receives special attention from the warm, inviting decor to each specially crafted variety of the freshly baked muffins to the signature menu items. The restaurant has been serving only breakfast and lunch since it’s opening day. Mario and Elena Mazzini are now offering a dinner menu featuring 11 dishes on Fridays and Saturdays from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. The new dinner menu includes Shrimp and Grits, roasted jumbo shrimp on top of southern grits with Cajun style Andouille sausage for $13.50. If you are interested in the traditional, they are offering Pot Roast delicately slow roasted all day for $15.50. Another top menu item is the Old Fashioned Meat Loaf homemade, served with garlic mashed potatoes and mushroom gravy, peas and carrots for $12.50. There is one more must have dinner, the Chicken Pot Pie, a comfort food classic made from scratch “better than Mama’s” for only $12.50. All items on the dinner menu include a house salad and a fresh baked cornbread muffin. “Our Mission is to serve the freshest and best tasting breakfast, brunch, lunch and now dinner to our customers in Sarasota. Quality Food - Friendly Service Your experience in our Word of Mouth home has been made possible by our valuable family of servers, bussers, cooks, bakers, dishwashers and hosts. We are all bound together by the spirit of teamwork and creative pride. We aspire to make your visit fun, memorable and delicious! We want to thank all of our customers who are responsible for making us busy and giving us job security. We have many daily regulars and we thank you for spreading “THE WORD”, said Mario. “Our sole target is to make sure that our customers leave happy.” See what visitors from Trip Advisor have to say.

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

Apple orchard stuffed chicken breast.

“Great value & filled with locals.” The location in a strip mall is nothing fancy, but that’s not why you’re here. We sat outside as the dining room was too noisy at lunchtime. While all the basics are on the menu, they also offer things like salad Nicoise at unusually reasonable prices. You get a complimentary muffin, scone or bread (hot & fresh) along with the deal. Soups and 1/2 sandwiches are also great here, they also have specials. It’s established and worth the wait.

“Amazing neighborhood restaurant” My husband and I discovered this wonderful low key local restaurant in our neighborhood that serves amazing breakfast and lunch. All homemade, healthy foods made from scratch. They don’t even own a deep fryer. No French fries but awesome home fries. Their soups are all delicious especially their black bean soup. Their frittatas are one of my favorite choices and so is the Chef Salad. I could only eat half the salad, very generous portions. My husband is a big fan of their wraps which are stuffed with good meats “Again a winner” and cheeses. They serve homemade We try it every year and are breads and baked goods also. never disappointment. Again nice We are so excited to have found menu, well prepared and very this little treasure close to home. We good. Will be back again. are now regulars. “Favorite breakfast restaurant in town!” If you’re looking for a charming place to have a delicious breakfast, head to Word of Mouth. The hustle and bustle of the morning gives you that small town, Sarasota feelin’. The food is always top notch, and the prices are very fair. I have been dining at Word of Mouth for over ten years, and it’s still my favorite. Enjoy!! “My favorite breakfast place.” The staff is very friendly, service is quick. They all pitch in & help each other. Love the breakfast & the muffins.

“The original Word of Mouth cafe’ in Sarasota leaves all others behind!” I had the pleasure of enjoying a delicious breakfast with family at The ORIGINAL Word of Mouth cafe’ on Gateway Ave. last week and felt it proper write it up. It is a quaint place with outside dining, but it was a chilly morning so we sat inside. From the very first moment the place was inviting, and smelled fantastic! I had a Western Omelet with Swiss cheese, hash browns and rye toast.... along with a never ending hot cup of fresh coffee. The service, food and environment was just great, huge front windows offer nice views of the interesting shops on the quiet street. A highly recommended and reasonably priced breakfast or lunch!

“Hidden breakfast gem” We opted to venture off of Siesta Key village to get away from the (941) 925-2400, 6604 Gateway crowds. We were very pleased Ave. Sarasota, FL 34231 with the food and service. Nice Monday – Saturday 8:00am to variety. Very fresh. Will return. 2:00pm, Sunday 8:00am to 2:00pm They constantly filled coffee and Now Open for Dinner Friday provided excellent service. and Saturdays 5pm to 9pm. www.originalwordofmouth.com

Sheriff’s Report

Jan. 21- Feb. 19, 2015

There were a total of 33 crimes reported on the Key from 1/21/15-2/19/15

1/21/15 Grand Theft 5000 Block Ocean Blvd. A woman reported that on 1/18/15, she was sitting at the front bar inside a village club. She laid her phone down on the bar and looked away. At that time an unknown subject took the phone. The victim spoke with employees of the bar the next day, but no phone had been turned in. She believes the theft took place around midnight but can’t be entirely sure because she had been drinking. There are no suspects at this time. 1/29/15 Grand Theft 500 Block Commonwealth Place A victim called to report a theft. An unknown suspect took their “tube dude” style mailbox from their front yard sometime during the night. The piece, worth $1500, is likely aluminum and painted yellow. One of the arms is waving and the other is holding a blue mailbox with the number 575 on it. The piece is about 4-5 ft. tall and approximately 25-30 pounds. The feet of the tube dude were cemented into the ground. The entire piece was ripped off its feet, which were bolted to the concrete anchors. There are no suspects. 2/4/15 Domestic Battery 6000 Block Midnight Pass Rd Officers responded to a domestic battery complaint. The suspect, who is 83 years old, was calm and stated that he had an altercation with his wife who is 79 years old. The suspect explained that he slapped his wife in the face with an open hand because of the altercation. He stated that he was unaware of the Florida law pertaining to domestic battery. His wife did not want him arrested because they are from out of town and she would have no one to take care of her. She is legally blind and totally dependent on her husband for her everyday functions. She advised that she is not afraid of her husband and that he has done this kind of thing before. The officer noted that the victim had no physical injuries and that her husband was visibly scared and stated that he would never hit his wife again. The officer made contact with the complainant who is the couple’s son-in-law. He stated that the couple came to Florida against the wishes of their family. He also stated that his mother-in-law should not be left alone. The family is currently looking into assisted living

options. The wife signed a waiver of prosecution. The complainant agreed that this was the best option to take in this situation. The officer completed a domestic violence packet and issued the wife a case number. 2/7/15 Siesta Beach Burglary Vehicle Officers responded to a report of a vehicle burglary that occurred at the public beach parking lot. The complainant advised that she left her car parked at the lot for approximately 2 hours. When she returned to her car, she discovered the front passenger window was shattered. She observed her designer purse, valued at $300, had been taken from her backseat. She noted that the purse contained a wallet, a visa card, driver’s license, and social security card. She also noted her GPS was taken from the center console as well as 2 pair of prescription glasses valued at $400 and $600. The victim was unaware of any other items being taken. The car was dusted for prints with negative results. There were no witnesses or suspects. 2/8/15 Domestic Battery 6300 Block Midnight Pass Rd The victim informed deputies that she and the defendant had engaged in a verbal altercation over extramarital affairs. She explained that the defendant became enraged when he discovered that she had been cheating on him during their 15 years of marriage. She noted that the argument escalated into a physical altercation and the defendant slapped her across her face. Officers noted that both parties were intoxicated and that the victim was holding a beer in her hand when the officers arrived. The defendant admitted to the verbal altercation over the affair but denied that it went any further. Officers noted that the suspect was slurring his words as he spoke and later admitted he had several beers. After speaking with both subjects,

it was determined that the defendant would be taken into custody. While at the jail the defendant began to complain of chest pains as he stated he had a heart attack two weeks prior to this incident. He was brought to the hospital to insure he was OK. During his medical screening at the hospital he continued to scream vulgarities and insult the nurses and doctors. He also threatened to throw a bottle of urine at the officer and to knock his teeth out. Based on the totality of the incident, the suspect was brought into custody. 2/11/15 Burglary- Vehicle 6500 Block Midnight Pass Rd A man reported sometime after 8 pm the night before, an unknown suspect broke out his driver side window and took his property. The complainant’s Honda SUV was parked in the condominium’s lot. All the doors were locked. The unknown subject used an unknown object to shatter the car’s window in order to gain access. The complainant’s gold Secret Service badge and carrying case were taken from the driver’s side door compartment. Nothing else was disturbed. Prints were not taken as the complainant and his friends had inventoried the vehicle before the officer arrived. 2/11/15 Burglary- Vehicle 6500 Block Midnight Pass Rd A Woman reported a burglary to her vehicle sometime between 9:30pm and 10:00 am that morning. An unknown subject had broken out her driver’s side back window. Her silver Mercedes had been parked under the building in her parking space. The doors were all locked. The unknown subject opened the complainant’s umbrella bag that had been lying on the backseat. Nothing was taken from the vehicle. 2/11/15 Burglary-Vehicle 6300 Block Midnight Pass Rd A man reported that sometime during the last two weeks his car was broken into while it was parked at his vacation condo. The victim noticed that his plastic cup full of change and his loaded semi automatic pistol were stolen from inside his vehicle. The victim stated the car was locked, however, there were no signs of forced entry.

941.349.0194 • www.islandvp.com ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC

Snapshots Around Town Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Left: Kailey & Cassie from Sarasota at the Glendi. Right: Gus from Sarasota, Nick from Lakewood Ranch at the Glendi.

Financial Focus

|Are You Following a “Tax-smart” Investment Strategy?

Hop in for sweet Easter treats!

VISIT US AT ANY OF THESE GREAT LOCATIONS! LAKEWOOD RANCH: 8130 Lakewood Main Street, suite 103, Lakewood Ranch, FL 34202 P: 941.907.0282 SARASOTA: 4990 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231 P: 941.554.8492 BRANDON: 459 Brandon Town Center Mall, Brandon, FL 33511 P: 813.684.4444

We’re getting closer to April 15: Tax Filing Day. And while there may not be much you can do to change your results for the 2014 tax year, you can certainly look closely at your tax returns to find areas you might be able to improve next year — and one such area is your investment portfolio. Of course, you may also find opportunities in other places, too. Could you have taken more deductions? Could you have moved some of your debts into a tax-deductible loan, such as a home equity loan or line of credit? You’ll want to consult with your tax advisor to determine areas of potential savings. However, you may be able to brighten your tax picture by making some “tax-smart” investment moves, such as the following: • Resist the urge to trade frequently. It can be costly to constantly buy and sell investments. In addition to the commissions you may incur, and the possibility that such excessive trading can impede a consistent investment strategy, you could rack up a sizable tax bill. If you sell an asset that you’ve held for a year or less, any profit you earn is considered a short-term capital gain, which is taxed at the same rate as your ordinary income. So, for example, if you bought Investment ABC for $1,000 on January 5, 2014, and you sold it for $1,250 on Dec. 31, 2014, you’d be taxed on your $250 gain. If you are in the 28% tax bracket, you’d owe $70 in taxes. But

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if you had waited until January 6, 2015, and you sold your investment for the same $250 gain, you’d pay the more favorable long-term capital gains tax rate of 15%, which translates into $37.50 in taxes — just over half of what you’d owe at the shortterm rate. If you habitually sold investments after owning them less than a year, the taxes could really add up —so try to be a “buy-and-hold” investor. • Increase your 401(k) contributions. If you aren’t already participating in your 401(k) or similar plan, start now. And if you are contributing, boost your contributions whenever your salary goes up. You typically put “pretax” dollars in your 401(k), so the more you add, the lower your annual taxable income. Plus, your earnings can grow tax deferred. • “Max out” on your IRA. Depending on your income level, you may be able to deduct some, or all, of your contributions to your traditional IRA — and these deductible contributions can lower your taxable income. Plus, your investment can grow tax deferred. (Keep in mind, though, that taxes will be due upon withdrawal, and any withdrawals made before you reach 59½ are subject to a 10% IRS penalty.) If you contribute to a Roth IRA, your contributions are never deductible and won’t lower your taxable income, but your earnings are distributed tax free, provided you’ve had your account at least five years and you are older than 59½. In 2015, you can contribute $5,500 to

your IRA, plus an additional $1,000 catch-up contribution if you are 50 or older— and it’s almost always a good idea to “max out” your contributions each year. By following a buy-and-hold investment strategy and using those tax-advantaged accounts available to you, you may be able to help yourself — at tax time and beyond. This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.

Joe St Onge Jr, ChFC® Financial Advisor

Edward Jones Investments 5112 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Key, FL 34242 (941)-346-0560 phone (941)-320-4030 mobile Joe.StOnge@edwardjones.com

Off Key

By Robert Frederickson

|From Quiet Time in Sarasota to Uncertain Science Now Entering Sarasota: Shhhhh...

Research Data Services of Tampa called last month’s Thunder By the Bay event a resounding success, generating $8 million for the local economy. But Sarasota Commissioner Susan Chapman has found a cloud in this silver lining, citing the event’s noise and accompanying traffic congestion as reasons to reevaluate some special events that may have become “too successful” for the city. Chapman also took exception to the recent Music Half Marathon for similar reasons (i.e. noise and traffic). No surprises here. Chapman’s election to the commission was in part fueled by early support from residents frustrated with noise from downtown bars and such special events. Downtown condo dwellers looking for the amenities of urban living – along with the seemingly incompatible hush of a library or hospital zone – remain the core of this savvy politician’s base. No matter that Chapman sometimes comes off as the city’s resident scold, reminding some of the curmudgeonly homeowner down the block, forever yelling at the neighborhood kids to stay off her lawn. As for Thunder By the Bay? Well, perhaps the city can replace the event with a Vespa Rally. The scooters are so much more refined than those muscular, American born and bred Harleys-in-heat, no? And then there’s the Italian connection so many moversand-shakers in these parts are so enamored of. Next target? The Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix replaced by a sailing regatta or a rowboat race on the bay? Perhaps…as long as the cheering from the shore is kept to a whispered hush.

R.I.P. Pelican Press

Though many industry news observers would have called the patient’s time of death as having come back in the summer of 2011, the removal of the Pelican moniker from the masthead of the Observer’s Siesta Key edition officially ends a run that began in 1971 when John and Elizabeth Davidson began publishing what

would become Siesta Key’s very own, award-winning voice on matters large and small. Sometimes, quirky, often irreverent, several generations grew up learning about their community from its homegrown perspective.

Media Matters

John Stewart announced last month he is walking away from The Daily Show at the peak of the show’s popularity; his penchant for delivering the news with what The New York Times’ Dave Irzkoff called “layers of silliness and mockery” has earned him the respect and adulation of millions of predominantly younger Americans who have come to rely on him as their principal source of news, fake or satirized as it may be. Meanwhile, across town, on the very same day Stewart made his announcement, NBC pulled Brian Williams off the air for also making a mockery of the news. Unfortunately for Williams, his efforts were not so well received.

Do as We Say, Not as We Do...

Every chance they get the powers that be at the Sarasota/ Bradenton Airport urge local residents and businesses to show their loyalty by flying into and out of SRQ International instead of the larger airports (with more connections) in Tampa and Fort Myers. So what do they do when they have the chance to show a little loyalty of their own in selecting a new marketing firm? Shop local? Of course not! They, head out of town and hire an Orlando firm instead.

Fleeting Fame?

Actual Sarasota Craigslist ad read online recently: “Outstanding condition Charvel/Jackson acoustic guitar with built in pick up. It’s signed by a famous musician but I can’t make out the name. Call Frank \ $175 OBO.”

Weather...or Not

Apologizing for a botched forecast predicting a catastrophic blizzard for New York City that

never materialized, a National Weather Service forecaster offered this explanation: “It is an uncertain science...” Funny, but that never seems to be the case when it comes to predictions of global warming... then it’s always a lock, despite all the “record setting” data presented being within the margin of error for the statistical models used.

Shocking News? (Well, maybe not...)

WFLA news reporter Melanie Michael was incredulous over national statistics ranking Florida third among the states when it comes to calls made to the human trafficking hotline. “Hard to believe,” said Michael. Perhaps someone should tell Michael that Florida is the third most populous state in the union. As such, why would it be hard to believe it would rank third on this list or any other?

Pulling the Plug on FPL?

Tesla – the electric carmaker with a showroom at the new UTC Mall - doesn’t just want to sell you a battery-powered car. They want to power your house too. And with a market capitalization of $28 billion, they might just have the juice to pull it off. Founder Elon Musk, who made his fortune creating PayPal, is also the driving force behind SpaceX, the private sector answer to NASA’s retired shuttle program. During Tesla’s most recent earnings report conference call, Musk matter-of-factly mentioned his company is developing a whole house battery that just might help you break your dependence on the local power utility. I’m sure FPL is thrilled.

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Beach Wedding

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Julie & Kraig |Sand, Sea, and Love

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Julie Weaver of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania and Kraig Burzlaff of Andover, Massachusetts exchanged vows surrounded by family and close friends, at an intimate wedding ceremony held on the amazing Siesta Key shoreline behind Palm Bay Club. Glistening Florida waters have been a running theme for this couple. They first met when a mutual friend invited them to join him and his group of friends for a day of boating. Although there was a mixture of singles and couples, everyone assumed they were a couple. On another date they shared that all-important first kiss overlooking the Gulf of Mexico in front of a sand dune on Clearwater Beach. Julie and Kraig realized early on that this was going to develop into a lifetime commitment and relationship. The love connection was instant for Kraig. “I stopped to see a mutual friend and Julie was there. She was looking through a newspaper and when she put the page down to say hello, I knew.” Julie related, “Not long after we started dating, Kraig offered unconditional support through the loss of a family member. His compassion and care

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wowed me.” This young couple has a lot on their plate. Julie is a Physical Therapist Assistant and Kraig owns multiple Great Clips franchises and several rental properties on Siesta Key. Siesta Key is Julie and Kraig’s favorite place and they visit as often as possible. “It’s a little piece of heaven on earth,” Julie said, “It’s like being on a little tropical island; we both are completely relaxed as soon as we cross the Stickney Point Bridge.” After their wedding day, Julie and Kraig flew to Cabo San Lucas, Mexico for their honeymoon. A few close friends would join them for a few days then Kraig and Julie will relax on their own. The following vendors provided everything in Julie and Kraig’s beach wedding package. Evelyn England from Sage Art photography. Linda Shepard from A Victorian Bride, hair & makeup. Doris & Molly from Beneva Flowers. Joe from Siesta Trolley. Anne from Marina Jack (sunset dinner cruise boat). A Rental Depot (chairs). Tammy from Palm Bay Club, on site wedding coordinator. Diane Norred, Officiant.

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Off Islands

By Rodger Skidmore

All Longboat Key sewerage goes into Sarasota Bay

Fortunately for all concerned – and that includes people,sea grass, dolphins, manatees and fish – that raw sewerage is in a pipe. That’s the good news. The bad news is that Dave Bullock, Town manager of Longboat Key,thinks that the pipe has seen better days. Roughly 15,340 days, or, if one is into rounding, 42 years worth of better days. What is being said, by Bullock,as well as by Manatee County and Longboat Key commissioners, is that the pipe has got to go. Actually, the fact that the town of Longboat Key and Manatee County are being pro-active on moving to replace this aging pipe means that they are ahead of the curve on this one. Ahead of Florida in general, most other states, and certainly the United States of America, in that they are addressing the problem of aging infrastructure. How many times do we read that some bridge has fallen down, some damn has burst or some road has washed out? Too many times. So, what needs to be done now? Just to decide where to put the new pipe, when to do it, what to make it from, and how to pay for it. Sounds like four fairly big problems, but, actually not. Yes, they could run 10 miles of pipe back up the key, through Bradenton Beach and down through the village of Cortez. But, no matter how much fun it would be to propose that route just to see the reaction it would generate, it will most certainly follow the same route that it does now. That would be out of lift station D, near Gulf Bay Road, straight across the bay, and into the Manatee County Southwest Water Reclamation Facility on the mainland. Once they know the costs, construction could begin early next year, with the pipe being completed in early 2017. The material would probably be some form of PVC or stainless steel and could be paid for by government grants (Yea! Longboat Key residents, lets hear it for Big Government). While, according to LBK Public Works Director Juan Florensa, the lift station was retrofitted about three years ago, the ages of all the feeder pipes are unknown.

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Another unknown factor is the size that the pipe should be. The original is 20 inches in diameter and was designed 42 years ago. Given the increase in population and the increase in the size of the individuals of said population, maybe a 30-inch pipe should be considered. Or it could be built like an expand-a-belt so that every 10 years it could go up a notch. Did we write earlier that LBK and Manatee County were ahead of the curve? Well, here we go again. We all read about the sister pipelines to the proposed XL oil pipeline bursting and dumping crude oil into our country’s pristine rivers. This new sewerage pipeline should never drop any crud (or crude) into the bay because they propose adding a monitoring system so that the condition of the interior of the pipe is continually known. No, they won’t be able to find your diamond ring, but they should be able to do preventive maintenance before it is actually needed. Well, that’s the plan anyway.

What are the odds?

We previously wrote that LBK was considering putting all of its utility wires underground along Gulf of Mexico Drive so as to make Longboat Key a prettier place. People could then look up through the sun and moon roofs of their cars and not see unsightly wires blocking their view of the clear blue Florida sky while they text their brokers to buy more stock in FPL. Well, things will have to remain ugly for a little while longer as a glitch has occurred. It seems someone has asked that age-old question, “How are we going to pay for this”? No, no, no, don’t worry; it will be paid for by property taxes. The question is, how to properly spread the pain of those taxes. Does everyone pay an equal share? And, what is equal? Should Gulf and Bay frontage pay on the old 80/20 basis? If someone already

has their lines buried, should they pay less or nothing at all? And, of course, the biggest question to be asked by the commissioners is – if we get it wrong, will we be sued? The result, a delay until June and then maybe pass the buck and ask residents to vote rather than have the commission risk getting it wrong Given the region’s interest in supporting education maybe LBK should buy 10,000 Florida Lottery tickets each week. That is a drop in the bucket compared to the 42+ million dollar price for burying the phone lines and the town’s charitable contribution would make for a lot of good publicity. With 10,000 tickets each week there is a good chance of getting a winning number and, with a 200 or 300 million dollar win, they could actually cut taxes instead of raising them. To reduce the pre-win cost of winning the lottery, the town could accept tickets from residents and snowbirds, in lieu of property and sales taxes, on some shared basis. In support of Governor Scott’s new emphasis on education the state legislature might even give LBK a grant for its efforts.

Down the drain

City Engineer of Bradenton Beach, Lynn Townsend Burnett, has been working on an equitable way to assess all property owners for storm water assessment. The aim is to come up with a methodology that is both simple and fair. As Hamlet says, “Aye,there’s the rub” – both simple and fair – not a chance. The proposal is to charge $4 for every square foot of land. No exceptions. Vice Mayor Jack Clarke said that “It doesn’t matter if you’ve got a chicken coop, a car dealership, a Circle K, or a condo that’s 10 stories high, the square footage of the lot is what we’re going on”. That takes care of the “simple” part of the equation, but the “fair” part? Not so much. If one has a chicken coop on sand, the water,during most of the year, drains right into the ground with no storm water drainage problem. If it is a Circle K with a crummy paved parking lot, the water will pool until it evaporates. And if it is a 10-story condo, it is probably on raised ground so that all of the water runs into the street and into the storm drain, creating a humongous problem. So, not so simple to make it fair.

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Giving Back

By Jaye Clements

|Mothers Helping Mothers Are you thinking about volunteering in Sarasota? Have a purpose in life and give back to our community? I will be highlighting some organizations in our area. Let’s start with Mothers Helping Mothers. MHM is a Not-For-Profit, all volunteer staff, serving our community since 1990. There are no paid employees! 100% goes right back into our community to help families in need. I bet you would be surprised to find out where this organization got its start? Many years ago, a couple of young women were reading a local paper and found there were women and families at the Salvation Army. Madeline Brogan, pregnant at the time, thought I wonder if they need any help? She called and sure enough was able to get them some much needed necessities… Later, Terry Stottlemyer joined in and they began collecting clothes and other items to give (at no charge) to families in need. At the time, there was a chef, Paul Mattison, who worked at the Summerhouse

on Siesta Key, he volunteered to host a fund raiser, called the Taste of the Holidays, and it was a success! Year after year, more restaurants joined in and it moved to the Davidson’s area on SK. Paul Mattison of Mattison’s http:// mattisons.com/ continues to help with fundraisers for MHM and others around town. He is a great example giving back and using your skills to help someone else! Last year, MHM, helped 6,700 families representing 9500 children in Sarasota, Bradenton & Venice. The need continues to grow each year. For 25 years they have been working continually to help provide at risk families, make ends meet. Working families sometimes just need a helping hand with clothing, etc. to get back on track. Without MHM many parents would find it difficult to cloth their growing children.

Here’s a few of the items they need:

• Cribs, Strollers, car seats, • Maternity Clothes, Mother’s work clothes, • Newborn, Baby & Children’s clothing, shoes, • New Socks, New Underwear, New Hygiene products (you can find many items like deodorant etc at the dollar store) • They always need new packages of diapers!!! (All sizes) and wipes. School supplies, small household items… • And of course money!!! Donations are tax deductible! They always need volunteers, it can be as little as 1 hour to help get things from the donation area

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

to the shelves. (Sorting sizes, girls, boys etc.) I’ve volunteered there and it is a great experience! It is very fulfilling to see clients find the stuff they need at no charge! It is such a pleasure to see a child smile when they find a toy to bring home! The key to donating items is only donate an article of clothing that you would wear…clothing must be clean, no holes, no stains, etc. If you have larger items, like furniture, they have a program that allows clients to shop at Habitat for Humanity. You simply tell Habitat for Humanity that your donation is for Mothers Helping Mothers. You can even schedule a pick up. If you are a High School student, you can fill your community service hours at MHM! If you are a working mom, that needs Pals hours at school, you can donate clothing in exchange for your parent volunteer hours at some of our area schools. (Usually, it’s 10 pieces of clothing = 1 hour) They are open on Tuesdays & Fridays from 9 to 11:30 for donations and client services. They are located at: 5933 N Washington Blvd., just south of University on 301 (on the west side of the road) for more information call 941-953-7572. Visit their website at: www.mhmsarasota.com or on facebook at: www.facebook.com/ mothers.h.mothers If you can’t make it to drop off items, feel free to email me at: SarasotaPhotography@earthlink.net or SarasotaVacation@earthlink.net I would be happy to help! Or text message me at 941-961-0256. Jaye Clements.

VILLAGE MAP pgs 18 - 19

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 34

GULF GATE SHOPS pg 25

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 20

LOCAL MAPS INSIDE

LIVE MUSIC PAGE 22

The Publication with “Key” Information | www.SiestaSand.net | 941.349.0194

Snapshots of Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Siesta Key Drum Circle

Every Sunday is a perfect time to come to the Key for some wonderful entertainment. I’m talking about the Siesta Key Drum Circle that takes place each Sunday starting about an hour before sunset and lasting until sunset. The gathering meets up just south of the main pavilion - just follow your ears and watch for the swelling crowd. Please note the following rules of etiquette that need to be observed at the Drum Circle so that all can enjoy the experience: the inside of the drum circle is for participants only, not for people standing around.

Feel free to enter the circle, take a picture and dance, but always keep moving. Never play someone’s drum without getting clearance from the owner. Always ask before borrowing other people’s property, especially hula hoops. Flash photography and bright video lights are distracting, so photograph during daylight or use a night vision camera. And finally, please do not drink alcohol or smoke inside the circle and respect our beach by placing all trash in the appropriate receptacles. Photo by Emy Stein.

1: Wayne, Liam age 4, Lauren from Sarasota at the Glendi. 2: Tina from Sarasota at the Glendi. 3: Sandy from Sarasota, Jennifer from Bradenton at the Glendi. 4: Adalyn age 2, Melissa, Jared from Ft. Myers.

Before you leave Sarasota, you must try this one! As seen on the Food Network Guy Fieri’s “Diner’s, Drive-In’s and Dive’s” show. The TurDucKen “One big bird” Boneless chicken stuffed in a boneless duck stuffed in a boneless turkey with a variety of great seasonings. Alpine Steakhouse just off of Siesta Key located between the bridges at 4520 S. Tamiami Trail. 941-922-3797

Lunch Turducken Sandwich $8.95 and Dinner Turducken $18.95 w/mashed Potatoes, stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce

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Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Fundraiser for Ronny Hickey Exceeds Expectations The fundraiser for Veronica Hickey, hosted by Blasé Café was a great success, according to Blasé Café owner and organizer, Cynthia Breslin. “The turnout was amazing with around 250 supporters. Attendees included Hickey’s past and current employers and co-workers from Crescent Beach Grocery, Jonny’s Free Rides, Capt Curt’s, Coasters & Midnight Pass Pub were all in attendance, (even her daughter’s High School Principal), as well as friends and family who traveled a great distance to support Veronica in her fight against cancer. People who have never met Veronica donated and came to show their support. Said Breslin, “Everyone came together and had such a wonderful outpouring of help, donations and just all around good nature. I’m proud to be a part of this community embracing our friend.” Business partner, Rami Nehme graciously supported the event by donating the food and closing Blasé. “The many businesses who donated to the silent auction, the food, the parking, the entertainment and volunteers was overwhelming”, per Maura Thompson, one of the organizers. According to Breslin, entertainer Chris Otto and the Los Rumberos band not only donated their time and talent but contributed their tips to Veronica’s fund as well. Thompson stated, “People are still talking about the success of the event. I am proud to say we are a Village and we take care of our own like family. As Veronica says

Jared from Ft. Myers, Jim from Punta Gorda.

Map B #42

ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Beach Resort ........................Map-A #38A ART GALLERY / STUDIO Calle Studios.........................................Map-B #32 Siesta Key Art Gallery........................Map-D #11 ATM / BANKS PNC ATM............................................. Map-C #61 Martin Funding......................................Map-E #1 Sun Trust Bank & ATM.........................Map-E #4 BAKERY A Taste of Germany............................Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts......................... Map-C #24 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blase Café.............................................Map-A #38 Blu Que Island Grill..........................Map-C #57 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar................Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s...............................................Map-B #33 Siesta Key Oyster Bar........................ Map-B #45 The Beach Club....................................Map-D #22 The Cottage.......................................... Map-C #58 The Hub-Baja Grill..............................Map-D #59 BOOK STORES Used Book Heaven...............................Map-B #48 COFFEE SHOPS Lelu’s Coffee Lounge...........................Map-B #31 The Local Bean.....................................Map-D #62 DRUG & HARDWARE Davidson’s Drugs................................Map-D #65 Village Hardware................................ Map-C #26 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Aqua Beachwear................................ Map-D #12 Beach Bazaar & Swin Shack........... Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear.................................. Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More.........Map-D #64 Foxy Lady Fashions........................... Map-A #40 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions.............Map-B #44 Island Cotton Company.....................Map-C #29 Island Boutique...................................Map-C #50 Island Style...........................................Map-C #53 Lotus Boutique................................... Map-D #66 Reel Hobby.......................................... Map-D #10 Siesta T’s............................................... Map-B #30 Sun Glass Outlet..................................Map-C #24 Women’s World................................... Map-D #9 GAS STATION Circle K Store......................................... Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Beach Bazaar...................................... Map-C #28 Created Gems......................................Map-C #51 Hurricane Rita’s Gifts.........................Map-C #51 Mount-N-Repair.................................. Map-B #48 Sea Pleasures & Treasures...................Map-C #2 Siesta Key Bead Shack....................... Map-A #36 Siesta Key’psakes................................ Map-B #29 Siesta Key Outfitters.........................Map-D #11 Siesta Key University.......................... Map-B #36 HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ................ Map-D #10 Siesta Key Fitness..............................Map-B #73 Studio Rubylakes................................ Map-B #49 ICE CREAM/TREATS Big Olaf Creamery..............................Map-C #52 Ciao Gelato...........................................Map-C #50 Siesta Key Sweet Shop......................... Map-D #9 SubZero Ice Cream Yogurt............... Map-D #16 Sunni Bunni Frozen Yogurt...............Map-C #53 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs................................. Map-D #65 Internet Cafe......................................... Map-D #9 Lelu Coffee Lounge............................. Map-B #31 The Local Bean.................................... Map-D #62 Map C #61

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

JEWELRY Created Gems......................................Map-C #51 Michael & Co. Jewelers...................... Map-B #29 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers................ Map-B #48

(l-r) Shawn McLoughlin, Andy Chilton, Maura Thompson, Audrey Terry, Veronica Hickey, Cynthia Breslin, & Katie Fogarty

daily...LIVE.LOVE.LAUGH!” Midge McCarthy, Ronnie’s sister posted the following on Facebook, “The positive atmosphere was filled with love and support and concern. Everyone’s generosity to ease her financial burden is so appreciated to help Veronica win this battle, which we have full intention of winning! Keep that positive energy coming.” Maura Thompson indicated that, “Our goal for raising funds was triple what we expected. The outpouring of love and support was incredible.” Veronica was so touched by all the support. She remains in awe and sends her absolute gratitude to everyone who attended and helped make the fundraiser such a success. As Veronica’s bills continue to mount, you can still help with a deposit into an account (#1000181361279) set up in her name at the SunTrust Bank located in the Village.

Snapshots of Island Visitors

Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 3

1: Boone age 7 Colt age 4, Lyla age 6. 2: Carmella age 6, Rico, Francesca age 8 – from Sarasota. 3: John from SRQ Pizza, Aristotle, Michelle age 7, Savannah, Jordan all from Sarasota enjoying a day off from work. 4: Savannah from Sarasota. 5: Jaden, Thomas from Sarasota. 6: Brad, Jack age 4 from MN.

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LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club....................... Map-D #70 Gilligan’s.............................................. Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wines............................... Map-C #61 The Beach Club................................... Map-D #22 MAILING - SHIPPING UPS store............................................. Map-A #41 US Post Office..................................... Map-D #65 MARKETS/FOOD STORES 7-11 Store.............................................. Map-B #46 Circle K Store......................................... Map-E #6 Siesta Market........................................Map-C #25 MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage.................... Map-B #35 Massage Experience Siesta Key......Map-D #62 Massage Therapy.................................. Map-E #1 Siesta Key Massage Ctr......................Map-D #9 MEDICAL - DENTAL Sarasota Medical Ctr.......................... Map-D #63 Siesta Key Physical Therapy............. Map-D #20 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce..................... Map-D #67 Roberti Enterprises............................ Map-A #39 Sheriff’s Office...................................... Map-D #9 Tarot Card Reading & Gifts...............Map-C #50

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PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CG Designs...........................................Map-E #1 Edward Jones Investments............... Map-D #68 Smith Architects.................................. Map-E #74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Coldwell Banker Realty..................... Map-D #20 Horizon Realty.................................... Map-B #34 Island Homes.......................................Map-C #51 Key Realty.............................................Map-E #5 Michael Saunders Realty..................Map-E #72 Re/Max Alliance Group................... Map-D #60 ReMax Tropical Sands....................... Map-D #67 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate..... Map-A #39 Siesta Key Realty.................................. Map-D #9 Waterside Realty.................................Map-C #29 RESTAURANTS / CAFES 314 II, Craft Beer board Room........... Map-A #37 A Taste of Germany.......................... Map-C #53 Another Broken Egg..................Map-C #54 & 55 Beach Bites..........................................Map-D #16 Blase Café............................................ Map-A #38 Blu Que Island Grill......................... Map-C #57 Bonjour French Cafe...........................Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano.................................... Map-D #71 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar............... Map-B #42-43 Eat Here Restaurant.....................Map-D #17-18 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar.................. Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante................ Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.............. Map-B #33 Jo To’s Japanese Restaurant...............Map-C #47 LeLu’s Coffee Bar................................ Map-B #31 Lobster Pot.......................................... Map-C #23 Napoli’s Italian Restaurant................Map-C #53 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub................... Map-E #2 Señor Siesta......................................... Map-D #69 Siesta Key Oyster Bar........................Map-B #45 Solorzano Bros. Pizzeria.................... Map-D #15 Subway Sandwiches........................... Map-B #30 Sun Garden Café................................ Map-D #19 The Cottage..........................................Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill........................... Map-D #59 Village Café........................................Map-D #14

Map C #53

Map D #11

SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY Nails By Iris..........................................Map-C #50 Salon Capelli......................................... Map-D #9 Sassy Hair Salon................................ Map-A #40 Siesta Key Nails.................................... Map-D #9 Village Barber....................................... Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida............................................ Map-B #32 Robin Hood Rentals.........................Map-D #34 Siesta Village Outfitters......................Map-C #53

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CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX

Things You Like...................................... C-3 #14 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Capt. Curt’s Souvenirs.............................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Shells & Gifts................. C-3 #14 The Silversmith ...................................... D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry.................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Lorraine’s Beauty & Barber.....................B-3 #8 Salon Siesta............................................... D-3 #17 Siesta Key Salon & Spa........................... C-3 #14 The Key Spa & Salon.............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus .......................................B-3 #8 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson’s Drugs.................................... C-3 #14 Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 LIQUOR STORES Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 Crescent Club............................................B-3 #13

“Home of the Orange Squeeze!”

Siesta Spirits............................................. C-3 #17 MAILING & SHIPPING Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 US Post Office Sub Station..................... C-3 #14 MARKETS 7-11 Store.................................................. C-3 #16 Big Water Fish Market.......................... C-3 #17 Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 MISCELLANEOUS Moving & Storage....................................B-3 #10 Flowers by Fudgie................................... D-3 #17 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Moynihan Realty..................................... D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent.............................................. C-3 #1 RESTAURANTS

Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7 City Pizza Italian Restaurant............... D-3 #17 Clayton’s Siesta Grille...............................B-3 #9 Javier’s Restaurant.................................. C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 Munchies.................................................. C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 CB’s Island Outfitters.............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta............................................. A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak . ......................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina..................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Key Parasailing............................... A-4 #5 Siesta Sports Rentals............................... A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club...................... A-5 #12

Big Water Fish Market................................C-3 #17 Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill...............A-5 #12

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ATM & BANKS Bank of America........................................ A-3 #3 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club........................................... C-3 #13 Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 DELIS & SANDWICHES Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery..... ......................................................................B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson’s Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES CB’s Island Outfitters.............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion......................................B-3 #1 Coconuts / Island Colors..........................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14 Key Casual Fashions............................... D-3 #17

6525 Midnight Pass Road

MAP B-3#14

FREE! FREE! FREE! A Free Tropical Gift! 79 c Just For Stopping In

349-4751

941-346-0202

green TURTLE COUPON

VALUE

With This Coupon

No Purchase Necessary

EXPIRES:7/05/2010 Expires 12/31/15

Map C-3#14 Open 7 Days 9 am-5 pm

941-346-1797

“Voted Small Business of the Year by Siesta Key Chamber”

RepaiRs, sales anD accessORies

HOuRly • Daily • Weekly

TREK BIKES • BEACH WHEELCHAIRS • PADDLEBOARDS SCOOTERS • SCOOTER CARS • KAYAKS • KAYAK TOURS CHAIRS/UMBRELLAS • STROLLERS • SNORKELING GEAR

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KAYAK TOURS ONLY 45/PERSON • BEST PRICE AROUND FREE DELIVERY AND P/U ON SIESTA KEY FOR MOST RENTALS $

6551 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key, FL in Southbridge Mall • Map C-3#14

$ off SCOOTER RENTALS Half Days/Full Days/Multi Day Rentals with this Coupon 12/31/15 EXPIRES 12/31/14

Bikes • Kayaks • Scooters • Kayak Tours

Map B-3#8

Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.

MAP A-3 #4

Coconuts Fashion MAP 1215 Old Stickney Point Rd. B-3 #1&8

Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #1

Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road

MAP C-4 #17

Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.

PLACE YOUR AD HERE Island Visitor Publishing 941-349-0194 SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

MAP A-5 #12

Notes from the Island Fishmonger

Water World

Captain Jim Klopfer

Day Trips in Water World

Instead of writing about fish and how delicious and nutritious they are for all of our diets, this month I decided to write about Florida travel. Since the Florida population has doubled since last month and will only increase by the week, every week, for the next two months, I decided to share some Florida day trip travel ideas with all of my friends from the great white north. Most of you are happy with your Siesta Key condos, Sarasota winter homes, sandy beaches, beautiful sunsets and fish tacos at the Big Water Fish Market and who could blame you... but if any of you are like me, a little adventure and exploring such as a day trip is always a fun experience. Not that I am suggesting anybody leave Siesta Key because we love you here on the Island! But if it is possible for me to help make your visit more exciting, relaxing or enjoyable, it would be my pleasure to share a few of my favorite Florida getaways. Disclaimer: Please remember these are only my suggestions and opinions based on good times I have had at these locations. I hope if you take one of my suggestions that you enjoy your trip as I did but I would strongly suggest that you do your own research on TripAdvisor and the internet before you venture out as I’m only a Fish Monger and not a travel agent. Here are your Island Fish Monger’s top 2 Water World Day Trips 1. Key West Express (www.seakeywestexpress.com) The Key West Express is a luxury boat that travels back and forth from Ft. Myers Beach to Key West every day. You can take this high speed water taxi to the Keys for a simple day trip, overnight or an extended stay. The boat leaves Ft. Myers for Key West every day at 8:30am and returns in the evening leaving Key West at 6pm. Tip...purchase your tickets in advance for a discount, board the boat early in order to get a good seat and travel light. By

Adventure Charters 941-371-1390

Maria Manby from Brookfield, WI holds a nice spring Spanish mackerel

March is a great month to fish on Siesta Key. It is the first month of spring, both on the calendar and outside. The list of available species is long; snook, redfish, trout, pompano, cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, sheepshead, flounder, snapper, grouper, jack crevelle, and sharks just to name a few. Big Pass will be very productive this month, particularly when the water is clean. Often times the tide is low in the morning, making the passes a great place to start off a trip and bend some rods. Ladyfish are usually thick, with bluefish, mackerel, and pompano mixed in. Live bait will work, but this is a great situation to cast artificial lures. Fish in the passes are usually actively feeding and can be seen busting baits on the surface. Gold Cotee grubs on a ¼ ounce jig head and (08) Rapala X-Raps are two effective lures. The sheepshead run will peak this month. Just about any structure near either pass will hold these tasty critters. A live shrimp fished on the bottom should result in a fish dinner pretty easily. Speckled trout will be schooled up over deep grass flats throughout the entire area. Incoming tides are best, but as long as the water is moving the fish will bite. A live shrimp under a noisy cork is a proven trout slayer. Jigs, spoons, and plugs will fool many fish, too. Pompano, mackerel, ladyfish, bluefish, jacks, and a stray cobia will also be encountered when fishing over the grass flats. These are large areas, the key to success is to keep moving until fish are located, do not spend too much time in one spot if it is not producing. Snook will move out of their winter retreats on their way out to the Gulf to spawn. Any structure with a depth change is a likely place to catch a snook. Docks, bridges, and oyster bars are all very productive, especially those with some current. Plugs and scented soft plastic baits are the top choices, along with a large hand-picked shrimp. Fishing the area bridges at night is a great way to catch a bunch of snook. Free-lined live shrimp, artificial shrimp and plugs work well. Fly fisherman will score using any small white baitfish pattern. Remember, snook season is closed, handle the fish with care and release them unharmed. Surf fishing should be good for a variety of species providing the water is clear and not roiled up. Whiting, silver trout, flounder, pompano, Spanish mackerel, and ladyfish with hit both live shrimp and artificial lures. A jig tipped with a small piece of shrimp works well bounced along the bottom. Mackerel and ladyfish will hit flash lures such as silver spoons and plugs. I live shrimp fished on the bottom with just enough weight to get down is a simple but effective technique and will catch anything that swims. Anglers targeting pompano will do well with live or frozen sand fleas. The beach should come alive this month, provided the winds cooperate. Spanish and king mackerel will invade the area, along with cobia, sharks, and false albacore. The inshore reefs off of Lido Key are a great place to start, they hold a lot of fish. Trolling spoons and plugs is a deadly technique and will fill the cooler in short order. For more sport, look for breaking fish on the surface and cast plugs, spoons, or flies out into the frenzy, a vicious strike should occur immediately!

|Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans

Let’s go sailing, KATHLEEN D Sailing Catamarans, serving Siesta Key from 3 locations, Downtown Sarasota, Longboat Key and Anna Marie Island. If you would like to experience being on the water viewing Dolphin Watches, Sunset Sails, Snorkeling and Shelling call us at 941870-4349 or go to our web site for detailed information www.kathleend.net USCG Certified for 20 passengers.

|The Rumrunner

Located at Turtle Beach Marina in South Siesta Key | 941.349.3119 www.siestakeycharterfishing.com Captain Joe Bonaro offers more than exciting deep sea fishing opportunities aboard “Sarasota’s

fastest charter boat,” the Rumrunner (941/349-3119). The skipper offers special boat and fishing trips for families – and for families with small children – as well as customized day and overnight trips.

taking the boat you still have to plan ahead for accommodations if you plan to stay overnight. You do not need a car in Key West so bring some comfortable shoes and plan to walk. There are also plenty of cabs & buses available there if you prefer. Some Key West Suggestions: Fish Tacos at DJ’S Clam Shack (they were featured on Food Network). Happy hour and oysters at both Alonzo’s Oyster Bar and the Half Shell Raw Bar on the Harbor Walk. Mallory Square nightly Sunset Celebration. Duvall street nightlife, Irish Kevin’s is a wild spot. 2. Cabbage Key Island (www.cabbagekey.com) This is a great couple’s trip. This little hidden gem is an island off Pine Island that was made famous by Parrot Head Jimmy Buffet who supposedly wrote the song Cheeseburger in Paradise while sitting on the restaurant’s porch enjoying the beautiful panoramic view of the Pine Island Sound and the best cheeseburger he ever had. The island is 100 acres of tropical vegetation surrounding the historic restaurant, cottages and inn. There are no cars and no paved roads. But you can enjoy nature trails and gorgeous views along with plenty of relaxation which makes for a peaceful getaway. You can only get there by boat so pack light but you can bring whatever you want on to the island. Bring your own cooler with wine, beer, snacks and make sure you bring a book. I also bring my own fishing pole and bait as fishing off the docks is a great way to kill some time and a 6 pack. Enjoy the company of your

By Scott Dolan

loved one, the views, the wild life, and the serenity along with the great island staff and its patrons. On your way back to Sarasota, stop in the town of Matlacha for lunch on the water and visit some of these Old Florida village shops. You might find some cool stuff. Other things to do: - Hard Rock Casino (www.seminolehardrocktampa.com) - Venice (www.venicegov.com) - St. Armands Dircle to Anna Maria Island (www.starmandcircleassoc.com & www.annamariaislandchamber.org) - Sarasota Dog track (www.sarasotakennelclub.com) - Saturday morning downtown Sarasota Farmers Market (www.sarasotafarmersmarket.org) - Wednesday’s Phillippi Creek Farmers Market (www.farmhousemarket.org) - Marina Jacks (www.marinajacks.com) and O’Leary’s Tiki Bar & Grill (www.olearystikibar.com) for sightseeing, lunch, music or to schedule a sunset cruise. - Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium (www.mote.org) followed by some food and dolphin sightings at the waterfront Old Salty Dog restaurant next door If you need any local advice especially about Sarasota fishing charters, inshore fishing spots, golfing suggestions, kid friendly/ family fun or local hot spots, be sure to visit me and the gang at your Big Water Fish Market located at the south end of Siesta Key. We sell fresh fish and give good advice. Our ultimate goal is that you all maximize your winter thaw and enjoy good fish and good times.

MARCH 2015 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay

March 2015

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date

Day

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset

1136am

High Tide 1.2

941pm

High Tide 1.6

502am

Low Tide -0.3

419pm

Low Tide 0.9

655am

631pm

317pm

405am

1156am

1.3

1031pm

1.6

540am

-0.3

511pm

0.7

654am

631pm

409pm

447am

1213pm

1.3

1112pm

1.6

612am

-0.2

551pm

0.6

653am

632pm

500pm

526am

1226pm

1.4

1149pm

1.6

640am

-0.2

626pm

0.5

652am

633pm

551pm

602am

1237pm

1.4

704am

-0.1

700pm

0.4

651am

633pm

642pm

637am

1223am

1.6

1250pm

1.5

726am

0.1

733pm

0.2

650am

634pm

733pm

712am

1257am

1.6

108pm

1.6

747am

0.2

809pm

0.1

649am

634pm

824pm

746am

233am

1.5

230pm

1.7

909am

0.3

948pm

0.1

748am

735pm

1015pm

921am

312am

1.4

257pm

1.7

933am

0.4

1033pm

0.0

747am

736pm

1108pm

359am

1.2

329pm

1.8

957am

0.5

1126pm

0.0

746am

736pm

457am

1.1

407pm

1.8

1024am

0.6

745am

737pm

1201am

1118am

620am

0.9

454pm

1.8

1230am

0.0

1052am

0.7

744am

737pm

1256am

1203pm

835am

0.9

552pm

1.8

146am

-0.1

1126am

0.8

742am

738pm

150am

1254pm

709pm

1.8

305am

-0.2

741am

738pm

245am

149pm

1119am

1.1

836pm

1.8

416am

-0.3

304pm

1.0

740am

739pm

339am

248pm

1146am

1.2

957pm

1.8

515am

-0.3

433pm

0.9

739am

740pm

430am

351pm

1210pm

1.3

1105pm

1.9

604am

-0.3

538pm

0.7

738am

740pm

520am

456pm

1233pm

1.5

647am

-0.3

633pm

0.5

737am

741pm

608am

602pm

1204am

1.9

1256pm

1.6

725am

-0.1

724pm

0.2

736am

741pm

654am

709pm

1259am

1.8

120pm

1.6

759am

0.0

813pm

0.0

735am

742pm

740am

816pm

152am

1.7

146pm

1.8

830am

0.3

902pm

-0.1

734am

742pm

825am

922pm

244am

1.6

215pm

1.9

858am

0.5

954pm

-0.2

732am

743pm

911am

1027pm

339am

1.4

247pm

2.0

924am

0.6

1049pm

-0.2

731am

743pm

958am

1129pm

443am

1.2

324pm

2.0

949am

0.7

1151pm

-0.2

730am

744pm

1047am

607am

1.0

405pm

1.9

1013am

0.9

729am

744pm

1137am

1228am

456pm

1.8

101am

-0.1

728am

745pm

1229pm

124am

607pm

1.7

216am

0.0

727am

745pm

121pm

215am

1058am

1.2

1120am

1141am

1200pm

Phase

Full

957am 1036am

747pm

1.6

328am

0.0

227pm

1.1

726am

746pm

213pm

302am

1.4

921pm

1.6

428am

0.0

415pm

1.0

725am

746pm

305pm

345am

1.4

1030pm

1.6

517am

0.0

520pm

0.8

723am

747pm

356pm

425am

1.5

1124pm

1.6

556am

0.1

607pm

0.6

722am

748pm

447pm

503am

3rd

New

1st

941.349.0194 • www.islandvp.com ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC

Who’s Playing Tonight

By Mike Sales

Dean Johanesen

|An interview with Dean Johanesen Dean Johanesen is truly a remarkable artist in his ability, professionalism and dedication. His unique sound is unmistakable and his show is polished, but casual, with each song revealing more depth to his talent than the next. I knew of Dean and his music, mostly from area festivals and from songs I wore the needle through on Reverbnation… crystal clear, technically amazing and written from the heart. I was a fan before conducting this interview and chances are you’ll want to be one after you read it... WPT: How long have you been playing on Siesta Key? Dean: About three years. It took me awhile to get out here, because I play so many originals, but then I met Cort (Farris) and he was very kind to me. He booked me into the Cottage. Some of the management heard me there and thought I’d be a good fit for The Hub as well. I’ve been playing both places ever since then. WPT: Are you from this area? Dean: No, I’m originally from New York, and I’ve also lived in Indiana, Las Vegas and Atlanta. I moved down here in 1999 with a 5-piece rock band and we played here for a few years until the band broke up and I started playing solo gigs. In fact, we used to play the Beach Club, when it was a rock club. WPT: When did you start playing guitar? Dean: I got my first guitar when I was 12 and didn’t really take it out of the case until I went to high school at 14 and saw other people playing, joining bands, making music and socializing. I guess you could say it was the community

CLUB

aspect that won me over, because while I found it hard to be inspired just sitting alone practicing in my room, sharing the music with friends was rewarding. Of course nowadays, discipline kicks in, because life is too busy to wait for inspiration to strike. WPT: When did you start writing original songs? Dean: My writing began with a journal I kept when I was in my teens. I wrote poetry that gradually evolved into songs. In New York, I played in a band that would bookend the show, by playing cover songs for the first and last sets and playing all originals in the 2nd and 3rd sets. We always got a better response from the audience for our own songs, because we played them with more passion. I enjoyed the classic songs we covered, but about that time, I had a life changing conversation with my roommate, who was a phenomenal bass player. He asked me what the cover songs meant to me. I was caught off guard by the question, because up until then, music was a job I loved. He told me that music should mean something to me every time I play. He was right and it inspired me to get serious about writing. WPT: It’s interesting too, that as you gain life experience your perspective changes as does the subject matter of the songs that move you. Dean: Yes, I’ve had experiences with people who used to come to see my rock band in Atlanta and come out now, expecting to hear the music we played back then, but I have to explain to them that those songs were from a different time in my life. I was in my 20’s trying to figure things out and not always happy about it. That music

was an expression of the anger I’ve outgrown. WPT: Did you start singing about the same time as you began to write songs? Dean: No, I originally just wrote songs for other people to sing. I didn’t see myself as a singer until I got tired of being let down by singers who wouldn’t show up or drank too much or forgot the words. So, when the band got hired for a party and we didn’t have a singer, I gave it a try and it worked. I went on to take lessons and practice to get better and even sang exclusively in the band in Atlanta. WPT: How often do you play the Hub and the Cottage? Dean: I play every other Monday at the Hub and every other Wednesday Night at the Cottage. WPT: Where else do you play? Dean: Most of my gigs are in Tampa, Lakeland, St Pete and Clearwater. I also try to tour about 12 days per month through the South East and I’m going out to Texas in March for the 7th year in a row to perform there during the South by Southwest Festival. WPT: How did you get into touring? Dean: When I went solo, I decided I’d like to tour a lot more, so I just did it. The first couple of tours were tough, because I didn’t make much money and even had to sleep in the truck. Every time I go to a new market, I have to start at the bottom, because no one there knows me, so my goal is to work each new area until I become somebody there. It’s much different than a local gig, because I have to earn every bit of recognition I get. I have to play gigs, figure it out and build a reputation.

stuff with stories I wrote about the circus. I like to mix it up and try to keep it interesting for the entire 3 hours. WPT: What are your career goals? Dean: I want to keep getting better at everything I do. Singing, playing, writing, performing the music business…everything. I want to maintain control over my music as much as possible and I want to tour the country full time and expand into other countries as well. To view his videos, and to keep up to date with Dean Johanesen visit www.deanjohanesen.com The Hub features live music daily and is located at 5148 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key, FL 34242 The Cottage features live music weekly and is located at 153 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key, FL 34242 Mike Sales is a local singer & songwriter for more info visit www.mikesalessings.com

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE MONDAY

BLASE CAFÉ

In the Village 941‐349‐9822

BLU QUE ISLAND GRILL In the Village

941‐346‐0738 DAIQUIRI DECK RAW BAR In the Village

941‐349‐8697

1‐3 –Bain Buckely 5‐9pm ‐ Marcel

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Live Music 6‐10pm 1‐3 –Bain Buckely 5‐9pm – Tommy D

Live Music 6‐10pm 1‐3 –Bain Buckely 5‐9pm – Democracy

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Live Music 6‐10pm

Live Music (6‐10pm)

Live Music 6‐10pm

Live Music 6 ‐10pm

1‐3 –Bain Buckely

1‐3 Pain Buckley

1‐4 ‐ Live Music Jillian Traxx 6‐10pm

1‐5pm Georgia & Mike Marcel 6‐10pm

Marvin (acoustic) 4‐8pm DJ Scotty B 10pm‐cl

Matt Gerhart 4‐8pm DJ Daze 10pm – cl

DJ Haile Bless Reggae 4‐8pm

Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Acoustic Pete 1‐5pm Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Road Block 2‐6pm Live Music 6‐10pm Venturas on the back patio (5‐9pm) DJ 10pm – 2am

Patrick Stouteneorough 6‐10pm – Steve Sipes 5‐9pm

Rodney Shenk 6‐10pm

RPM 6‐10pm

Patrick 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

RPM 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Acoustic Open Mic w/ Nally & Egglefield 6‐10pm

Tony Tyler 7‐11pm

Ben Hammond Open mic nite 7‐11pm

Kettle of Fish 7‐11pm

Berry Oakley’s Skylab 7‐11pm

THE BEACH CLUB

DJ Coz 10pm – 2am

Kettle of Fish 9‐11pm

DJ Rev Kev 10pm – 2am

DJ Xtreme 11pm‐2am

Live Band4‐7pm 8 – 11pm* DJ Gravity 11‐2am

Live Band 8 –11pm DJ Rev Kev 11pm‐2am

THE COTTAGE

Live Music 6‐9pm

Live Music 7‐10pm

Live Music 6‐9pm

Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm

Live Music 1 – 4pm

4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 –midnight

Live Music 1‐4pm 4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 ‐ midnight

Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm

Karaoke 9pm – 1am

Chris Otto/TBA 6‐10pm

Tommy Rox 6‐10pm

Paul Duffy 6‐10pm

Chris Otto (Every other Fri) Andres Collin 5‐9pm

Larry Williams 5‐9pm

(Reggae Music)

Live Music 4‐8pm

GILLIGANS

In the Village 941‐346‐8122

Lelu’s Coffee Lounge In the Village 941‐346‐5358

SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB) In the Village

941‐346‐5443 In the Village 941‐349‐6311 In the Village 941‐312‐9300

THE HUB‐BAJA GRILL In the Village 941‐349‐6800

BACKROOM SALOON @ CAPT. CURTS Crescent Beach Shops

Crescent Beach Shops

941‐349‐3885

BOATYARD BAR & GRILL Over the South Bridge

941‐921‐6200

CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE

801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey

941‐966‐1901

Nick LeValley 6‐10pm

Sunny Jim 6‐10pm

Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm

941‐349‐3885

SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS

RPM 6‐10pm

Karaoke 9pm ‐1am Chris Otto 6‐10pm

Above information is subject to change. We suggest calling venues for confirmation.

WPT: So do you just cold call places that feature artists unknown to their respective towns? Dean: No, I search for venues and study them to find places that are likely to like my music and then I send my press pack and make certain they know what I play, before booking the gig. I get about 50 “no’s”, before I get 1 “yes”, but once I do find a good fit, and get a “yes” they let me know what dates might work and I piece a tour together by linking venues and cities. WPT: What styles and genres can people expect to hear at your shows? Dean: I feature an eclectic catalogue, from singer/songwriter acoustic type music to Americana stuff. I do a lot of Spanish instrumentals and Gypsy Jazz like Django Reinhardt stuff too. I also do originals inspired by Gypsy Jazz, which I’ve been calling “Circus Swing.” It’s kind of like Vaudeville and “hot club” swing

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

Swamp Donkie 2‐6pm Rising Tide 8pm – 12am

Live Music 4‐8pm

Eddie James Jazz Band 6‐10pm Dana & Co 2‐6pm Mike Tozier 8pm – 12am

Chris Otto 2‐6pm

Democracy (Reggae) 10pm‐2am

Democracy 4‐8pm

Island Humor [ A woman tells her priest about her husband’s terrible temper and asks his advice. The priest asks, “What causes him to lose his temper?” The woman replies, “I have no idea Father. He seems to lose it for no reason at all. It scares me.” The priest says, “Let’s try this remedy. Whenever your husband starts to lose his temper, take a glass of water and begin to swish. Keep swishing until he calms down or leaves the room.” Two weeks later the woman sees the priest and says, “Ah Father, the idea you came up with works wonders. Every time my husband started getting angry, I would take a glass of water and swish. Any by golly, he’d calmed right down. I can’t imagine why swishing with a glass of plain water would do the trick.” “Well,” says the priest, “The water itself does nothing. It’s just that when you’re swishing you aren’t able to argue with him!” [ Walking into the pub, Sean said to the bartender, “Pour me a stiff one, Jaime. I just had another tiff with the little woman.” “Oh yeah,” said Jaime. “And how did this one end?” “Well I’ll tell ya now when

it was over,” Sean replied, “herself came to me on her hands and knees, she did.” “You don’t say? Now that`s a switch! What did she say?” She said, “Come out from under that bed, you gutless weasel! [ Darby O’Malley is home making dinner when Tim Flannigan knocks on her door. “Darby, may I come in?” he asks. “I’ve somethin’ to tell ya.” “Of course you can come in, you’re always welcome Tim, but where’s my husband?” “That’s what I’m here to be tellin’ ya, Darby. There was an accident down at the Guniness brewery…” “Oh gosh no”,cries Darby. “Please don’t tell me.” “I must Darby. Your husband Patrick is dead and gone. I’m sorry.” Finally she looked up at Tim…” How did it happen, Tim?” “It was terrible Darby. He fell into a vat of Guinness Stout and drowned.” “Oh my dear Jesus! But you must tell me the truth Tim. Did he at least go quickly?” “Well, Darby…to be honest, no. He got out three times to pee.” [ An Englishman, a Scotsman and an Irishman each order a Guinness in a pub. Upon being served, each

finds a fly in their beer. Repulsed, the Englishman sends his back. The Scotsman gently flicks the fly out of his mug and begins drinking. The Irishman, carefully lifts the fly up by its wings and roars, “Spit it out! Spit it out!” [ Paddy and Mick are walking home after a night on the tiles. They’ve got no money to get a taxi and are staggering all over the place when they find themselves outside the bus depot. Paddy has a brainwave and says to Mick “Get in there and steal a bus so we can drive home and I’ll stay out here and look out for the police”. Mick duly breaks into the garage and is gone for twenty minutes while Paddy is wondering what the heck he’s doing. Eventually Paddy sticks his head around the door and sees Mick running from bus to bus and looking very worried. “What the heck are you doing Mick, get a move on!” Paddy shouts. To which Mick replies “I can’t find a number 7 anywhere Paddy”. Paddy, holding his hands to his head in disbelief, shouts “You bloody eegit Mick, steal a number 9 and we’ll get off at the roundabout and walk the rest of the way!”.

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Month e h T f o r e d n e t r a B

Bar - SKOB r e st y O y e K a st Sie ey Village K a st ie S ., d lv B 5238 Ocean 941.346.5443

Name of Bartender: Kelli Hometown: Kalamazoo, MI Q: How long have you been bartending? A: 13 years on and off since I was 18.

HOTTEST BAR IN GULF GATE... MLB/College Packages FULL BAR

Q: What was the strangest or funniest thing you experienced at work? A: I actually have two: a couple of weeks ago, two guys from Jersey came in and gave me an acorn. They made me crack it open and there was a real rubber inside. I also used to bartend in Wrigleyville and the customers would get too drunk and leave us their Cubs tickets for that day. We could leave the bar and go watch the game! The best kind of tip a bartender could get! Q: What do you do in your spare time? A: Moving here from Chicago two years ago, I fully appreciate the beauty and the weather! I spend most of my time outdoors; recreational softball, golf, fishing, disc golf, paddle boarding, and the beach – obviously. Q: How would you describe yourself? A: I am a Midwestern girl. Always love to have a good time and spend

time with good friends. I am pretty simple, laid back, love to make people laugh and see them enjoy themselves. Q: How would you describe where you work? A: Coming from the city and working in corporate sales for six years, I can honestly say that I’ve never worked for a better place before! SKOB is hands down the coolest, most fun environment that keeps people coming back year after year, from all over the world! The staff are all wonderful, good hearted, hard-working team players. Recognition, appreciation, hard work and fun. I love it here!

6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905

Q: When’s the best time to see you? A: I am behind the bar every Friday and Saturday night and manage every other night at 5 p.m. Come by and say hello!

941.349.0194 • www.islandvp.com ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC

The Many-Faceted Career of Charlotte Marin “I came really close several times to being sent home to change, but I always got away with it” – Charlotte grins. “My first job was in a pizza parlor at age 15. My mother dragged me over there. I soon realized that I hated being micromanaged. I decided from that point forward I was only going to take jobs that I liked and were good for my resume. I knew I loved the water, so at 16 I became a lifeguard and swim instructor, and started working at the local community pools.” Of Norwegian descent, the lovely blonde went to Los Angeles one summer where she found a job working for a company that sent instructors to teach private, inhome swimming lessons. After she returned to Florida and graduated from Eckerd, she continued to teach in-home lessons, building a large client base. Her brush with the Rich & Famous, as well as the inherent need for water safety in Florida, inspired the idea of starting Mermaid Swim School. Mainly a summer business, the school was thriving after only two years! It now has over twenty instructors and covers Pasco, Pinellas, Hillsborough, Manatee, Sarasota, and Charlotte counties. It is a proud member of the US Swim School Association and an authorized provider of the Red Cross. You will find their instructional offerings at www. mymermaidswimschool.com . Always the water-lover, Charlotte is big into sailing. She worked as a First Mate sailing aboard various boats docked in St. Pete. These vessels took customers on various day sailing trips, mainly Dolphin Watching and Sunset Cruises. She nearly accepted a position sailing around the Caribbean, when along came a full-time job opportunity as a Biologist working in fisheries, the job she had always wanted. She accepted the position, moved to Sarasota, and now travels to various nearby locations where commercial fish are landed. Charlotte spends most of her time in the historic fishing village of Cortez, where she greets commercial fishing boats returning from extended periods in open

water. For example, a grouper boat will typically go 40 miles or more offshore into 120 feet of water, and is often gone for two weeks. When the fish are unloaded from the boat, she measures their length and weight, and takes various samples of spines, fin clips, bones etc, as well as interviews the fishermen about their trip. This information is used to conduct the stock assessments, which are important for determining the sustainability of the fisheries. The scientists are then able to advise the Fisheries Management Council in Tampa how to adjust fishing rules, regulations, and quotas as needed. Charlotte currently works on completing her Master’s Degree in Environmental Science at Florida Gulf Coast University. Her thesis work is focused on “The Seasonal Variability of the Striped Mullet Cast Net Industry in Sarasota Bay and Charlotte Harbor.” In spite of her passion for science, Charlotte always loved art and was looking for ways to fulfill her creative side. While studying super challenging courses such as physics and organic chemistry in college, she thought to herself that her “backup plan” would be to attend design school. After moving to Sarasota, she met and married Sebastian Marin, a soccer lover who was born in Medellin, Colombia, and had moved to Sarasota as a boy. He attended Cardinal Mooney before going to study International Business as well as play soccer at Lenore Ryan College in Hickory, North Carolina. Sebastian has been the head Boys’ Varsity Soccer Coach at Cardinal Mooney for the last nine years. He is also the General Manager of Il Panificio in Gulfgate. The seasonality of the restaurant business allows him to manage Mermaid Swim School during the summer. In 2011, the couple went to visit his family in Colombia. The trip was an eye-opener for Charlotte. “The details of the clothing really caught my eye. They have really intricate stitching, lots of embellishments, bright colors, interesting patterns—and amazing body confidence. In Latin America, it doesn’t matter what size you are: you’ll rock a bikini. I wanted to bring that spirit back

SKA Working for You We’d learned of an approved DEP plan to dredge sand from the ebb shoal of Sarasota Big Pass. While knowledge of a plan to renourish Venice Beach was public, expectations were for a permitted off shore sand borrow site. The news of a City of Venice and County supported plan approved by DEP was also delivered in our daily paper, contained within an article by the Sarasota Herald Tribune. This was not a customary process. The Save our Sand Committee of the Siesta Key Association (SKA) raised significant financial contributions for challenging this permit plan. These funds supported securing of scientific opinion, Legal assistance and Court challenge to the Permit being issued. The Permit, challenged in a legal process, was subsequently rescinded on two essential elements: there was inadequate public notification or input period by our citizens and environmental review required for natural resource protection was not adequate. The Venice Beach renourishment was subsequently completed with a permitted sand source off Manasota Key. Within four years (1998) SKA again challenged consideration of

Charlotte works with the local artisans on her signature beadwork at the factory in Medellin, Columbia where her swimsuits are made. This month’s island girl on the back page is wearing a few of the Floridita swimwear.

Charlotte introduced her 2015 Floridita Swimwear Collection in Curacao. Photos by Nestor G. Zacarce

to the United States, with my own Latin-inspired line of swimwear.” She located a factory in Medellin which would produce her line of swim suits, and arranged to have her signature beadwork added by local artisans. To say Charlotte’s Floridita swim suits are beautiful is an understatement. They are stunning and utterly unique! The

By Catherine Luckner, SKA Vice President

the ebb shoal for renourishment of Lido Beach by the City of Sarasota. SKA secured a Coastal Geologist opinion referencing a previous report (1994). Our letter, sent to Sarasota City Council, Sarasota County Commissioners and County Administrator referenced the commitment they all made previously to leave the ebb shoal in its natural state. The Coastal Geologist Dr. Dolan, wrote in his report “mining the shoal for sand could be a costly and irreversible error”. In 2004 increased attention to the potential for dredging arose when the ACOE received Federal approval for design of a Lido Key Shoreline Protection Plan. The applicant was the City of Sarasota. Construction was scheduled to begin 2008. This approval occurred after a significant hurricane period in 2004. After continued discussions and Engineering studies, the ACOE developed a preliminary plan for the Lido Beach project. Initially three existing approved sand borrow areas off shore had been considered. This followed multiple SKA meetings with the City of Sarasota, Coastal and Natural Resources staff for Sarasota County,

Continued from cover story

experts in the region regarding risks to the natural ebb shoal and Big Pass channel. SKA also discussed the plan with two Lido Key associations. What emerged through all discussions was agreement on a common goal. Lido Key needed help for critical erosion and in the process the project should accomplish this without doing harm to our natural environment or our Siesta Key beaches. On Dec. 5, 2013, SKA hosted the first large venue public presentation of the ACOE preliminary plan. We welcomed the opportunity to learn directly from the Engineering design team and the City of Sarasota Engineer. For those who attended, it was a chance to voice questions and concerns directly. We provided written questions to the ACOE in advance and further provided cards for written questions from those attending. There was robust response and credible and fearful concern for the outcome of the project design. Our Members sent Petitions requesting there be an Independent Peer Review process of the ACOE plan. The ACOE Engineers stated this was a preliminary plan. The final plan or Permit Application, was reported to be, at minimum, two years or three

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

suits look lovely on the website, of course, but when you see them for real—WOW! Charlotte is drawn to color, and uses a wide array of florals and an assortment of patterns—just as she did during her early years at Catholic School! You can find pictures of her suits at www.FloriditaSwimwear.com. You can also shop for them at CALIFLORIDA SURF & SKATE

at 5253 Ocean Blvd. on Siesta Key. Currently, Charlotte is working on her 2016 collection. She is looking into expanding her production base to include coverups, hats, and accessories. Just last week, she displayed her wares at the International Swim Fashion Week in Curacao.

Continued from cover story

years away. SKA, in January 2014, reaffirmed our request from the Board of Commissioners of Sarasota County, to authorize expenditure of funds for a third party review, by an independent Coastal Engineering group. Throughout the next several months, SKA members and the business community joined in expressing concerns of great risk should the Big Pass shoal be mined. ACOE submitted a new preliminary plan in June 2014. In July 2014, SKA spoke during the budget review meeting of the County. Being considered was use of storm damage funds derived from the Tourist Development Tax (TDT). SKA advocated for the approval of up to $1M (TDT) beach restorations funds to supplement FEMA assistance for critically eroded portions of Lido Key beach. The damage from 2012 TS Debby had accelerated since 2012 and existing funds and approved sand volume was inadequate. Funds were approved. With critically needed relief for our Lido Key neighbors, we hoped this would create security during additional ACOE plan review. During the same budget hearing,

Sarasota County focused on needed evaluation of impact for the South Lido County Park. The impact issues arose after SKA provided historic data (May 2014) surrounding the purchase of the Lido Key park land, using federal funds in 1973. These federally funded grants were to purchase land to “maintain open spaces and recreational use by the public forever in their natural state”. A tax referendum was approved by Lido and Sarasota County voters in order to add funds and purchase not only the Lido and Otter Key property, but also Casperson Beach for public use as County park land. The Federal funds matching through the State of Florida included a pledge to “keep these open spaces and lands in a natural state for public use and recreation”. This included the mangrove bay bottom and mangroves. As the ACOE plans include an anchoring groin structure within County Park public land, Sarasota County has a stake to steward this public land on Lido Key as well as the Siesta Key beach park. (see Siesta Sand article “Lido and City of Sarasota Fight Dredge and Fill...A Time Capsule”) Continued on page 29

The Shop SRQ Inc aka Erick & Dawn’s Barbershop Owners Erick and Dawn Jacobsen love their new location in Gulf Gate. Every barber on their staff is a true professional. They have barbers who know how to cut and style men’s, women’s, boys, and girls. “With years of experience cutting every kind of hair and all sorts of hair styles, you can trust us to give you the exact look you want,” noted Dawn. “We welcome every one with open scissors. Seriously, we are a family business and treat our customers with the respect, courtesy, and warmth you come to expect from a reputable salon or barber shop. We’re family friendly, so busy moms and dads can bring the kids to get their hair cut, or to patiently wait in our kid’s area,” “We’re now entering our third month here in Gulf Gate.... Sarasota. So excited. Love our new shop and enjoying the change. Come check us out, bring the family play some Xbox while u wait. Or just laugh with us or at us!” she joked. Here’s what people have been saying on-line. DM Sarasota - I’ve been going

to this shop for probably the better part of ten years (I honestly forget exactly how long, but I remember going there with my oldest baby snoozing in the car seat while I was in the chair). They used to have a shop at Bahia Vista & 41, but just moved down to a plush new shop in Gulf Gate as of Jan 1. Besides me getting my high fade every two weeks to keep me looking right, they do sharp flat tops and high & tights. Erick and Dawn are very personable, and it’s always a good conversation about the topics of the day - the way a barbershop should be. On top of all that, they are a very police & military-friendly shop and I know guys that come from Bradenton, Myakka City and Venice just to get a cut here. James D - Erick and Dawn are both very good barbers and it is a great place to spend some time. Have been going to the shop for four years (the old place near Sarasota HS and now the new at Gulf Gate). Always good for some great conversation and laughs. Roger Barfield —What a great place, love these guys!!!!! They are a breath of fresh air and

make everyone feel so welcome and part of the family. Dennis Petersen —Dawn and Eric are great owners and have always taken care of my hair needs. I’ve been a customer for at least 8 years and look forward to many years to come. Chance Wass —Love this place! Feel like I’m home, they even have uplifting quotes throughout and great music! Love my hair, Dawn is amazing. Jason Gallo —If you TRULY want an HONEST no BS cut then this is the place to be. Great conversation mixed with an affordable doo. This couple knows how to make it work. Come see Dawn and Erick ASAP! They can BS with the best of them....and you will come out looking the best and feeling the best you have in a long time! Hours: Tuesday - Friday: 8:30 AM – 6:00PM Saturday: 8:30 AM - 3:00 PM Closed Sunday and Monday 6625 Gate Way Ave. 941626-4894/941-536-1656.

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ERICKANDDAWNSBARBERSHOP.COM 6625 Gateway Ave.

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Open Tues.-Fri. 8:30 AM-6 PM Sat. 8:30 AM - 3 PM Closed Sun. & Mon.

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Daily from open ‘til 7 PM All packaged liquor sold until 2 AM

• ALL DAY-EVERY DAY Mike’s Bud Select Brew - $1.50/Pints • Pool TableGolden Tee Megatouch FREE RIDES! • 12 TV’s with MLB and NFL ticket sports package • All Florida lottery games • Smokers Welcome!

2639 Mall Drive

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Italian Market & Deli

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941.349.0194 • www.islandvp.com ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC

Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Arts on the Horizon Spring is in the air! Enjoy the music & shows around town this month! • March 1 to 7 - 35th Annual Jazz Festival Line-up for the Jazz Fest! • March 1 - Festival Kickoff - Jazz in the Park, 1 to 4 pm. Free admission and parking! Featuring jazz violinist, Doug Cameron & concerts by the top HS Jazz Bands at Phillippi Estate Park Sarasota. • March 3 - The Sarasota Jazz Project Big Band with bassist John Lamb and vocalist June Garber • March 4 - Jazz Trolley & Pub Crawl. Hop on and off the trolley and enjoy a fun night of jazz at venues around town. • March 5 - Freddy Cole - “Jazz Meets the Blues” The Freddy Cole Quartet with Freddy Cole-piano-vocals, Herman Burney - bass, Randy Napoleon, guitar and Henry Conerway, on drums. • March 6 - A Tribute to Brubeck - Karla Harris sings the Dave & Iola Brubeck Songbook with the Ted Howe Trio. • March 7 - Dick Hyman & Ken Peplowski with vocalist Kitt Moran. • Evening Concerts on 3/3, 3/5, 3/6 & 3/7 will begin at 7:30 pm at The Riverview HS Performing Arts Center. 1 Ram Way, Sarasota. http://www.jazzclubsarasota.org/

Top: Sabino from Sarasota. Bottom: Shelby, Brooke from Toronto, Canada.

• March 2 at 8 pm. Paul Anka at the Van Wezel. http://www.vanwezel.org/boxOffice/event. cfm?eveID=1514#.VOE5X9h0xdc

What’s Happening

…on the beach

EACH WEEK: • FREE YOGA Mon-Wed.-Fri.Sat. 10am. Classes held between blue and green lifeguard station. Call 941-320-6693 to register or www.yogaonsiestabeach.com • Nia Tues. & Thurs., 9a.m., Siesta Public Beach (yellow lifeguard chair) Joy Donation: $12. Contact Kathy Oravec at 941-724-9719 or Kathyoravec@ gmail.com • SUNSET FUSION – Every Mon & Wed, 45 minutes before sunset. Beach access 4. For additional info and to register online go to: www.studiorubylake.com • DRUM CIRCLE – Every Sunday about an hour before sunset. South of the main pavilion. You can participate or watch this weekly gathering dance, hoop, play the drum or other musical instrument and enjoy the spectacular Siesta sunset. EVENTS FOR THE MONTH OF MARCH: • MARCH: 8AM SUNRISE BEACH WALKS: Participants pay a one-time $5 registration fee and receive an event t-shirt with orginal design and sponsor logos and a punch card. Each week, participants check in with Parks and recreation staff between 8-9:30AM and after walking four weeks they are entered into a drawing for prizes. Contact 941861-5000 for details.

…around the island • SIESTA KEY FARMER’S MARKET – Every Sunday from 8am – 2pm in Davidson’s Plaza in the Village. 5124 Ocean Blvd. Fresh fruits, vegetables, music, art. • MARCH 7 & 28 (SAT) 8:30AM3PM CB’S FLY FISHING CLASS: CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, 1249 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL is offering their Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing schools on Mar. 7, Mar 28 and Apr 11, 2015. Located on Siesta Key, the schools will cover

fly casting basics, line control, shooting line and the roll cast. Instructors, Capt. Rick Grassett and Capt. Ed Hurst, will also cover leader construction, fly selection and saltwater fly fishing techniques. The course, designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters, will focus on basics but also work with intermediate casters on correcting faults and improving casting skills. Cost for the schools is $150 per person and includes the use of Orvis fly tackle, a text book and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 349-4400 or info@cbsoutfitters.com to make reservations. See our Siesta Key Round Up column for additional events taking place around Siesta Key.

…and beyond PHILLIPPI ESTATE PARK 5500 SOUTH TAMIAMI TRAIL SARASOTA, FL 34231 • Brown Bag Concerts continue the month of March. Every Thursday bring your lunch & lawn chair to the Gazebo area and enjoy a free concert from noon until 1:00 p.m. Free parking, handicap parking, public restrooms. • Phillippi Farmhouse Market continues every Wednesday from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. at the front of the park. This weekday market features local produce, locally prepared foods, baked goods, artisans with unique handicrafts and live music. At 10 a.m. each Wednesday there is a docent-lead tour of the Edson Keith Mansion in the park. This 1916 Italian Renaissance home is on the National Register of Historic Places. Tour is free; meet on the Mansion front porch a few minutes before 10:00 a.m. For additional info, call: 941-3161309 We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

• March 3 at 8 pm - Russian National Ballet: Gala Program www.vanwezel.org/boxOffice/event. cfm?eveID=1460#.VOE5lNh0xdc • March 5 from 8 to 11 pm. Ringling Underground – Art, music and fun! www.ringling.org/events/ ringling-underground-030515 • March 6 at 7:30 pm - New Stages – Dusan Tynek Dance Theatre: Camera Illuminata at The Ringling Historic Asolo Theater - 941.360.7399 Tickets: $30, $25, $20 $10 for college Students w/ID • March 7 at 10:30 am - ROAR! The Ringling Order of Art Readers. Free! Family story time for children ages 4 to 7. Designed to engage children in art & literacy. (Register online prior) http://www. ringling.org/events/roar-ringling-order-art-readers • March 7 & 8 – 14th Annual Downtown Venice Art Classic – West Venice Ave in downtown, Venice. http://artfestival.com/Festivals/Downtown_ Venice_Art_Classic_Venice_Florida_March.ASPX

By Jaye Clements • March 10, 13, 20, 27 – The Marriage of Figar Sarasota Opera www.sarasotaopera.org/tickets/production. aspx?id=6650 • March 11 to 15 – Jersey Boys at the Van Wezel. www.vanwezel.org/boxoffice/eventCalendar.cfm • March 12 – 5 to 8 pm. Courtyard Swing at the Ringling – included with Art After 5. http://www.ringling.org/events/courtyardswing-0 • March 12 at 6 pm. Gallery Walk & Talk, Re:Purposed at the Ringling. Re:Purposed will be on exhibition all month until May 17. http://www.ringling.org/ events/repurposed • March 13 – 7 pm National Theatre Live – Of Mice and Men at the The Ringling Historic Asolo Theater. Tickets $20. 941.360.7399 http://www.ringling.org/events/nationaltheatre-live-mice-and-men • March 19 – 5 to 8 pm. souleRcoaster - Ringling by the Bay – included with Art After 5 http://www.ringling.org/events/ringling-baysoulrcoaster • March 20 at 7 pm. 3rd Annual Wine Walk to the Ca d’Zan http://www.ringling.org/events/wine-walk-cadzan $125/ $110 for Members or $185 for VIP Ticket proceeds will go to the Ringling preservation fund. • March 20, 21 at 7:30 pm - New Stages – Hot Club of San Francisco: Cinema Vivant (gypsy swing) at The Ringling Historic Asolo Theater Tickets: $30, $25, $20/ $10 for college Students w/ID. Box office: 941.360.7399 http://www.ringling.org/events/hot-club-sanfrancisco-cinema-vivant • March 21, 22 – The Sarasota Folk Festival 10 am to 10 pm on Saturday & 10 am to 5 pm on Sunday. 3 stages of music at the Oscar Scherer State Park in Osprey. There will be workshops with personal tips and instructions from artists and a jam tent for aspiring musicians! Saturday from 3 to 5 pm a contest will be help for upcoming artist, people’s choice award. The winner will have a paid slot at next year’s event! http://sarasotafolkfestival.org/ Saturday Headliner Concert: 6 to 7 pm. Lis & Lon Williamson 7 to 8 pm. The New 76ers 8 to 9 pm. Radoslav Lorkovic 9 to 10 pm. Roy Schneider & Kim Mayfield Sunday Headliner Concert 1 to 2 pm. The New 76ers 2 to 3 pm. Lis & Lon Williamson 3 to 4 pm. Radoslav Lorkovic 4 to 5 pm. Roy Schneider & Kim Mayfield Headliners: http://sarasotafolkfestival.org/ Performer.htm Folk Festival Line-up: http://sarasotafolkfestival. org/Sarasota%20Folk%20Festival%20Schedule2015. pdf • March 25 to 28 - New Stages – Holoscenes at the Ringling. 12 pm until close there will be performances on the grounds near the Ca d’Zan. http://www.ringling.org/events/holoscenes • March 27 from 7 pm to 11:30 pm. 8th Annual BMW of Sarasota Chillounge Night, benefiting Selby Gardens. Chillounge Night and The Circus Arts Conservatory with Nock Productions bring Cirque du Chill – a lively, larger-than-life circus arts performance to Selby Gardens in Sarasota. Cirque du Chill will feature exciting entertainment by awe-inspiring circus artists. Chillounge Night is a unique experience, an outdoor party with comfy lounge furniture. You’ll enjoy this exhilarating event! http://chilloungenight.com/sarasota-2015/

• March 9 at 8 pm - Three Dog Night at the Van Wezel. www.vanwezel.org/boxOffice/event. cfm?eveID=1515#.VOE60Nh0xdc • March 10 at 10:30am. Collecting Recollections – Victoria Cristiani Rossi $5 (free with admission) Hear Victoria Cristiani Rossi talk about both her personal and public life of her famous traveling circus family. Reception & book signing after the program. www.ringling.org/events/collectingrecollections-victoria-cristiani-rossi

• March 27 at 8 pm. Sarah McLachlan at the Van Wezel. http://www.vanwezel.org/boxOffice/event. cfm?eveID=1532#.VOE7V9h0xdc • March 27 to 30 – Graziano & Taylor at the FSU Center for Performing Arts. http://www.sarasotaballet.org/events/ graziano-taylor

Tallahassee Shorts Solar coalition says it has 100,000 signatures in ballot drive A wide-ranging coalition announced it has collected 100,000 petition signatures in its effort to ask voters in 2016 to allow businesses and property owners to sell limited amounts of solar energy. The coalition will need to have nearly 70,000 signatures of registered Florida voters verified by local supervisors of election before the state Supreme Court will review the validity of the proposed ballot language. As of February 16, 1,576 signatures had been found valid, according to the state Division of Elections. If the Supreme Court approves the ballot language, the coalition would need to collect an overall total of 683,149 signatures to get on the November 2016 ballot. The amendment, in part, would allow businesses to generate and sell up to two megawatts of power to customers on the same or neighboring properties. The coalition has estimated that the

Wake & Shake

businesses from masquerading as roll-your-own “clubs” to avoid charging state and federal taxes on cigarette sales. Lawmakers said the proposal shouldn’t be seen as a tax increase, but leveling the field for businesses now charging the proper taxes on cigarette sales.

two-megawatt total would cover the daily use of a typical WalMart. The coalition has estimated that it might have to raise $8 million to $10 million to counter anticipated opposition from large power companies. House eyes ‘sin taxes’ for strip clubs, roll-your-own shops Patrons of strip clubs and adult theaters would have to pay a state surcharge before going in, under a proposal being looked at by state lawmakers who also want to close a tax loophole enjoyed by roll-your-own cigarette shops. The House Finance & Tax Committee, which is usually more averse to tax hikes, agreed to advance separate “sin tax” bills out of the committee. One measure would impose entry requirements on adult establishments, including a $10 fee on top of any other existing admission charges. Also, it would require the business to keep records of customers. The second measure is intended to prohibit

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Education commissioner calls for reining in tests Education Commissioner Pam Stewart called for the elimination of at least one statewide test, as a key Senate education committee began hammering out legislation meant to curb the number of exams given to students in Florida’s public schools. In a report delivered to Gov. Rick Scott, Stewart recommended that the state get rid of a language-arts test students take in 11th grade. An exam in the 10th grade is used to determine whether students have met the state’s graduation requirement in language arts, and many educators say the later test is unnecessary.

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Soulfully Yours Donnarose Q: Dear Donnarose, what are some words of wisdom you can channel for control freaks like me? I have no patience and hate waiting for the results no matter what the situation is. ~Thanks, Tracy

A: ~ “When control is released and no longer a need, you will feel more at peace, and set yourself free.” ~Donnarose Melvin I get a lot of calls similar to this topic, so you are not alone. The thing is, impatience is on the ego’s watch, and causes us to want to control and rush the process while holding a tight grip on the outcome. This tends to cause more tension and anxiety. Patience, however, equals trust and is on the soul’s watch, and enables us to release with peace, attachment to the outcome. Also, keep in mind that when in “waiting” mode, the Universe matches this energy, and lovingly grants you more delay which causes more frustration and anxiety. So think of yourself as being in “receiving” mode which is in alignment with perfect divine order for the benefit of all involved. And during this time if you remain in a state of gratitude, it will shift and lift your vibrational frequency to a higher level. This will help you remain in a calmer state of energy and to be more patient, which will allow for a more happy and peaceful outcome. ~ ♥ Q: Dear Donnarose, jealousy is all around me at my job. I have a great position, and a great man in my life. There are a lot of women in my office who are single and don’t want to be, and make it clear they are jealous of my happy life. Please advise on how to handle this since I have to live in this environment 5 days a week. ~Blessings, Sophia

A: ~ “When you keep your focus in the Light, the people trying to overpower you, will lose the fight”. ~Donnarose Melvin As long as there are people whose energy is at a lower vibration, there will be jealousy around us since that’s where it resides. Since you have to physically be around your co-workers on a consistent basis, call in Archangel Michael and thank him for clearing your body and space of all negative energy, for protecting you with his protective shield, for keeping you safe and filling you with love. In this case, you also want to thank him for cutting all energetic cords that you share with anyone in this or any other lifetime that is not in alignment with love. Visualize this actually happening. And finally, remember that what you focus on, is what you give power to. Therefore, avoid focusing on any jealous words and actions directed towards you. Instead, put your focus on thoughts of gratitude for the love you have for yourself, your life, and your Higher Powers, as They will support, guide, love and protect you...guaranteed. If you apply the above consistently, rest assured, you will see a big difference in your office immediately or very close to it. ~ ♥ Donnarose Melvin is a professional psychic, medium and energy healer, whose pleasure is to assist clients worldwide. She incorporates knowledge from her degree in psychology, along with her clairvoyant, clairaudient, clairsentient and empathic gifts to guide her clients towards peace and success. Please send your questions to SoulfullyYoursDonnarose@gmail.com or private message her via facebook: Soulfully Yours Donnarose. Donnarose will select questions each month to share with you. She regrets that unpublished questions cannot be answered individually. If you’d like an intuitive reading, contact Donnarose at the email address above.

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Is a Roundabout REALLY Needed? What kind of gridlock will result when a line of beachgoers toting coolers cross Beach Road through a roundabout? How would the roundabout impact accessibility to the nearby condominiums Our House at the Beach? When FDOT first presented the renderings of the roundabout at the Feb. 5 SKA meeting, members also raised many questions. “I’m not saying I am against [the roundabout] or for it,” Shay told Siesta Sand. “But there are still questions that haven’t been answered.” Brian Bollas, a senior planner for Parsons Brinckerhoff, a consulting firm working for FDOT, says a lot of these

publically presented plans for crosswalks on Midnight Pass Road, residents voiced concerns about the Midnight Pass/Beach Road intersection as another area of concern. “That was one of the areas residents said they had concerns about,” Bollas said. “The goal of the project is to improve safety, “including pedestrian, bicycle, and vehicle safety,” Bollas said. There have been 11 accidents at the intersection in the last five years. But there have been no fatalities. If either a roundabout or signalized right turn is constructed, the work will take place off-season, and project managers will try to get

questions will be answered at a public workshop held by FDOT March 10. That workshop is scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. at St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Road. Engineers will be on hand to present details for three options: the roundabout; a modified and signalized right turn lane onto Midnight Pass; and a third “donothing” option that leaves the intersection the way it is. “We will have some preliminary cost information, and highlight some advantages and disadvantages for each option,” Bollas said. Bollas said FDOT is looking at the intersection in an effort to address safety. When the agency

Continued from cover story

construction wrapped up as quickly as possible, Bollas said. A roundabout would be able to handle large volumes of traffic, Bollas said, similar to the roundabout in Clearwater Beach, while increasing pedestrian safety. Statistics show roundabouts lead to fewer and less-serious crashes. A signalized and modified right turn onto Midnight Pass would allow pedestrians to cross safely when cars are stopped at the light. Currently there is not a signal at the intersection.

Choosing an option

The state has not chosen a final option yet. “We don’t have any preconceived idea,” said Robin

Stublen, a spokesman for FDOT. “It is whichever option makes the most sense and is the safest.” Stublen said the March 10 workshop will be a forum for residents and property owners to ask questions and give comments. “People can give input in writing and verbally at the workshop,” Stublen said. “We pay close attention to what people say.” Shay also has questions about the 11 accidents at the intersection. He’d like FDOT to share more information about those accidents before further discussions on improvements to the intersection. For example, did those accidents happen inside or outside crosswalks? Continued on page 29

9 15

10 16

8 21

COLLISION SUMMARY Section: 17080 000 Location: At Beach Rd Study Period: 1/1/2006 to 12/31/2014 No. of Years: 8 No. 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 Total No. 23 % One Vehicle 1 4

Date 8/2/2006 4/16/2006 7/7/2007 3/29/2008 11/14/2008 12/27/2008 2/20/2009 3/21/2009 3/31/2010 4/21/2011 6/7/2011 7/31/2011 10/9/2011 1/7/2012 3/13/2012 8/25/2012 3/25/2013 5/18/2013 10/4/2013 3/6/2014 3/23/2014 4/1/2014 9/19/2014

Day Wed. Sun. Sat. Sat. Fri. Sat. Fri. Sat. Wed. Thur. Tue. Sun. Sun. Sat. Tue. Sat. Mon. Sat. Fri. Thu. Sun. Tue. Fri.

Fatal 0 0 Ped/ Bike 2 9

State Route: 758 M.P.: 1.238 County: Sarasota

Time 10:43 12:10 19:56 18:27 23:25 18:21 7:27 12:23 15:05 2:25 21:45 22:50 14:08 13:05 10:46 8:45 17:45 15:00 11:11 1:15 20:52 19:33 11:00

Type Rear End Angle Rear End Rear End Rear End Rear End Left Turn Rear End Rear End Hit Tree Left Turn Rear End Hit Tree Rear End Rear End Angle Other Collision w/ Bike Fell From Vehicle Collision w/ Ped Rear End Rear End Rear End

Fatal

Injury x

x x x x x x x x x x

Prop. Damage x

Engineer: HNTB

x x

Day/ Night Day Day Night Day Night Night Night Day Day Night Night Night Day Day Day Day Day Day Day Night Night Day Day

Wet/ Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry Dry

x x x x x x x

Injury 11 48

Property Damage 12 52

Cargo Angle Loss/Shift 2 0 9 0

Left Turn 2 9

Rear End 13 57

Side Swipe 0 0

Day 14 61

Night 9 39

Wet 0 0

Dry 23 100

FTYRW 2 9

DUI 4 17

Contributing Cause Careless Driving FTYRW Careless Driving Careless Driving Careless Driving Careless Driving FTYRW DUI Careless Driving Careless Driving Disregarded Traffic Signal Other Other DUI Other Disregarded Traffic Signal Other Careless Driving DUI DUI Careless Driving Careless Driving Careless Driving Fell From Vehicle 1 4 Careless Driving 11 48

Other 1 4 Other 4 17

SIESTA SAND March 2015 www.siestasand.net 28 Please be aware that the records you requested contain•information compiled and collected for the purpose of obtaining Federal-aid funding for safety Notice:

improvement projects. Under Federal law (23 U.S.C. § 409 ), these records are not subject to discovery or admissible into evidence in any court proceeding and may not be considered for other purposes in any action for damages arising from any occurrence at a location mentioned or addressed in the records.

Comments Stopped for emergency vehicle Fled Scene Fled Scene

Lost control when making a left turn Fled Scene Fled scene; Stopped abruptly to speak with pedestrians/bicyclist Lost control due to illness Fled Scene Vehicle stopped for pedestrians Fled Scene; Vehicle ran bicyclist off bike lane Vehicle entered bicycle lane Fled Scene; Located in parking lot Fled Scene

Collision w/ Pole 0 0 Improper Lane Change 0 0

Hit Tree 2 9 Improper Load 0 0

Hit Conc. Barrier Wall 0 0 No Improper Driving 0 0

Overturned 0 0 Disregarded Traffic Signal 2 9

Roundabout Smith, the architect and Siesta resident, knows something has to be done at the intersection. “I go through that intersection quite a bit,” Smith said. “There is a ‘no man’s land’ on that island where Midnight Pass goes north. It’s crazy right now. It is dangerous [for pedestrians].” But Smith isn’t convinced a roundabout is the answer. He believes adding a traffic signal and modifying the right turn lane to Midnight Pass going north will make it easier for pedestrians to “get from Point A to Point B a lot safer,” while functioning to facilitate traffic flow. The current yield lane onto Midnight Pass was probably a

Continued from page 28

SKA Working for You On August 20, 2014, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved up to $50K funding to support an independent peer review of the most recent Army Corps of Engineers proposal. The choice of an independent Engineering firm has not occurred but is in progress. We have confidence a highly reputable firm will be chosen once a finalized ACOE plan is completed and provided for review. Within the month of March 2015, we expect the revised ACOE plan to be provided. After public presentations, a 45 day comment period will be available for new questions and statements of concern and all questions sent to the ACOE

Smith also worries beachgoers might try walking directly through a roundabout, instead of using the crosswalks. “I’ve been around the beach long enough to know people walk all over the place,” Smith said. Smith, however, is actually a fan of roundabouts—just not at Beach Road and Midnight Pass. “They are great in certain locations,” he said. “The roundabouts downtown are great.” After the March 10 workshop, FDOT officials working with engineering consultants will decide the “preferred project” and make a formal presentation at a public hearing, Stublen said.

left-over from a sleepier time on the Key when there was less much traffic. “I grew up in Sarasota and that turn has been like that since I can remember,” Smith said. For Smith, a roundabout will have unintended consequences on traffic. “The traffic is the worst three or four months a year, and that’s when we want to keep tourists happy.” Tourists getting stuck in the beach public parking lot won’t be happy, Smith adds. “The existing light [at the intersection] does give a little pause so folks can get out of the parking lot,” Smith said. A free-flowing roundabout might eliminate such a pause in traffic.

Accident Waiting to Happen Continued from page 24

must be answered. SKA has offered to host such a public input meeting. The ACOE must satisfy criteria mandated by NEPA. The initial criteria must be satisfied through an Environmental Assessment (EA) which has one of two possible outcomes: a finding of no significant environmental impact or a finding of significant environmental impact. At this point, a challenge can be made by an interested impacted party. The second criteria process of NEPA required could be an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) which is more comprehensive. Other criteria includes that of the Water Resource Development Act (2014). Without a completed permit

application and funding under this recent legislation prior to August of 2015, the ACOE project could be further delayed. The ACOE are currently in discussion with the State of Florida DEP to determine if the plan meets the environmental requirements prior to the permit application. SKA has worked for more than 66 years on behalf of all who love Siesta Key and the Sarasota environment surrounding us. Our Sarasota Bay is listed within the “Waters of the U.S.” as a significant estuarine environment. We invite you to join in our good work on this and many other civic issues.

RHS Scholarship Recipients Four Riverview High School soccer players were recipients of the Andrew Monroe Memorial Scholarship. Francisco Tovar, Chris Solari, Morgan Johnson and Ansley Saba all received funding towards their college education totaling $3,000. Andrew Monroe was a Riverview High School graduate and a goalkeeper for the soccer team. He tragically died in an automobile accident on March 13, 2011. In honor of his life, his parents, Stacey and Sam Monroe, established the college fund to assist soccer players. Every year, the DeSantis Family contributes one scholarship. Rob DeSantis was one of Andrew’s coaches during his tenure at the school. Students submit an essay for consideration for a scholarship. A 5K run/ walk is held each year to raise money for the memorial fund. For more information visit www.andrewmonroe.com.

Rob DeSantis (left to right), Stacey Monroe, Francisco Tovar, Chris Solari, Morgan Johnson, Ansley Saba and Sam Monroe.

YUM, GUM!

We never used to recommend or discuss chewing gum. In fact we discouraged it because it “pulled out” fillings and crowns, etc. But we’ve learned a few things. First...that gum never “pulls” out acceptable fillings or crowns, only those that really needed to be changed anyhow. And we learned that chewing gum helps to stimulate saliva and moisten the mouth and teeth. As our population grows older we find that many of us have to take medications that dry up the mouth which is leading to increased decay and gum disease. Also many of us are not as dexterous as we once were. And we have gums that are sweetened with Xylitol that inhibits cavity producing microorganisms and neutralizes acids these microorganisms produce. So for many of our patients, young and old, we now actively recommend using gum with Xylitol right after eating and at least twice a day. It’s easier to prevent oral disease than treat it. And it’s far less costly.

On January 1, a driver was arrested for operating a vehicle under the influence causing damage to property on Ocean Blvd and Sand Dollar Lane. The pole was split when the driver ran into it. Florida Power and Light (FPL) promptly installed a new pole the next morning. Only one problem. The damaged pole was left behind

creating a potentially hazardous situation because the cables are the only thing preventing it from falling. Michael Shay, President of SKA, has contacted FPL twice without success and continues to pursue its removal. At the time of press, 55 days following the accident, the damaged pole has yet to be removed.

FLORIDA DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

SR 758 at Beach Road Intersection Improvements Public Workshop The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT), District One, is holding a public workshop for the State Road (SR) 758 at Beach Road Intersection Improvements Project Development and Environment (PD&E) study in Siesta Key, Sarasota County, FL. The workshop is Tuesday, March 10, 2015 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. at St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Road in Sarasota. The workshop is an informal open house where people are welcome to review project displays, view an automated presentation and provide comments to project team members in a one-on-one setting. Written statements or exhibits submitted at the workshop, emailed, or mailed and postmarked by March 20, 2015 will become a part of the official project record. SR 758 at Beach Road is a signalized “T”-intersection with pedestrian crosswalks across the north and west legs of the intersection. The study will evaluate alternatives to improve multi-modal accessibility at the intersection while maintaining existing vehicular capacity.

The department has sent notices to all property owners, business owners and condominium/ homeowner associations located near the intersection study limits. FDOT encourages everyone interested in the project to attend the workshop. FDOT developed this workshop in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and related statutes. FDOT solicits public participation without regard to race, color, national origin, age, sex, religion, disability or family status. People who require special accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act or people who require translation services (free of charge) should contact Aaron Kaster, at 863-5192495 or aaron.kaster@dot.state.fl.us at least seven days prior to the workshop.

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Snapshots of Island Visitors

Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

1: Bob from Delaware. 2: Cameron age 3, Leigh, Emma age 9 from Sarasota. 3: Luann. Kim, Sherry, Luella, from Pennsylvania. 4: David from York, Maine. 5: Brooklynn age 13 mo., Marti, Becky from IL. 6: Ayana age 3 from Michigan. 7: Landon age 3, Ben age 7, Sam age 4.

News Up & Down the Trail The 2015 tour promises to be an even bigger success with 6 premiere private gardens available for viewing. The Gardens in Paradise event includes: •Tours of the 6 private home gardens plus the Garden Club’s 14 Botanical Gardens •Instructional lectures on gardening tips and best practices •Opportunity drawings for dozens of awesome prizes donated by local merchants •Vendors with a variety of items for sale, including elegant handbags, children’s books, gift baskets, plants and garden art •Complimentary coffee and pastries for all attendees •Gourmet lunches provided by the Hyatt Regency will be available

Continued from page 9

at the Club, 1131 Blvd. of the Arts, Sarasota, FL The Sarasota Garden Club supports the community by initiating projects such as Civic Beautification; holds community outreach programs such as Garden Therapy for Autistic Children and Therapy Tea for Nursing Home Residents; awards scholarships to high school and college level students, as well as send kids to camp each year. Also, maintains their Historic Building and the surrounding grounds, and much more. The 13 beautiful Botanical Gardens, which are FREE to the public, are maintained solely by Garden Club volunteers. The goal is double the attendance of the tour this year. This tour is the major fundraising activity;

Island Churches:

• Siesta Key Presbyterian Chapel 4615 Gleason Ave, Siesta Key, 941-349-1166 www.siestakeychapel.org • St. Michael’s Catholic Church 5394 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4174 www.stmichaelssiesta.com • St. Boniface Episcopal Church 5615 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-5616 www.bonifacechurch.org

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Glass Bottom Boat and proceeds benefit the Sarasota community in many ways, including those mentioned above. The entire encourage the entire community is encouraged to attend and help continue the beneficial programs. Tickets can be purchased either at the Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, FL 34236 or online at www. gardensinparadise.com. For further information, call 941-955-0875.

Places of Worship

Beach Service:

• Point of Praise – (Sat. 5-7pm) Live praise and worship music. Free concert on the beach. Public invited. Held the last Saturday of each month on the main beach just to the left of the volleyball nets. Contact Aaron Martin at 941-914-3433, to confirm time and location.

Off- Island:

•Temple Sinai, a Reform Congregation (The closest Jewish congregation to the Key for visitors)

4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, 941-924-1802 www.templesinai-sarasota.org • St. Andrew United Church of Christ (Protestant) (In the Gulf Gate area, near Beneva and Gulf Gate Drive) 6908 Beneva Road, Sarasota, 941.922.7595 www.uccstandrew.org • The Superior Word Rev. Charlie Garrett Service starts Sunday mornings at 10am. Bring a friend and share in God’s word. 6512 Superior Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34242

• First Christian Church 7601 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241. 941-922-4434 www.fccsarasota.com •Center for Metaphysical Fellowship Sunday Service at 10:30am includes healing, inspirational talk, special music & spirit messages. NEW - Healing Service: 1st tues. of the month at 7pm. 2044 Bispham Road, Sarasota 34231, 941-266-8435 www.cmfsarasota.org

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Published by Island Visitor Publishing, LLC Contributing Writers and Photographers will be noted with bylines. Guest commentary not necessarily the opinion of island Visitor Publishing, LLC Reproduction without written permission prohibited. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement. All business bios are extensions of the display advertisements, the Island Visitor is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.

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Spring is coming to Siesta Key Beach! No matter the cool breezes -- or even if you are a visitor and know there’s snow back home -- SPRING is definitely on its way to Siesta Key Beach. AND HERE’S PROOF!! The photo below is of a male Snowy Plover -- one of the most rare birds in Florida -- and this time of year he’s got mating on his

mind! Uniquely, as mating season nears, these little birds make a circular scratch in the sand -rather like a shallow saucer. First one makes a scratch -- usually the male. And then the female may make a scratch and with her final scratch -- up to 2 or 3 weeks later

-- becoming the nesting site. Note the circular scratch in the photo below. These scratches are consistent in their similarity to a small saucer and my colleague, photographer Claire Herzog, photographed this near perfect saucer only moments after the male had made it.

may become prey for many larger animals including crows, gulls, an occasional snake and even fourlegged hunters such as a raccoon, cat or dog. Running away is an option, but a one or two ounce chick is usually better off to hide or hold very still taking advantage

Gulf of Mexico. It is unique in that it may hold an endless array of objects washing in from near and far. The picture below is of a small collection of wrack -- mostly leaves and algae -- on which a sea horse lies after washing onto our shore.

A “scratch” photo, also by Clair Herzog

A photo of a standing Snowy Plover by Clair Herzog

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Within a few days, if the male is appealing to the female (and vice versa) first one bird makes such a circular scratch and then, in either a few minutes to a day or so, the other makes a scratch. If they proceed and finally mate successfully the female will begin to grow two to three eggs in her body. And then one morning -- if all goes well -- we find a nest! Typically, the hen lays two to three eggs and continues on the nest incubation for 3 to 3½ weeks until the eggs hatch, usually during the night. And by early in the morning the chicks are often up and running about searching for food. Why so quickly? This is a characteristic of precocious birds. And snowy plovers are very precocial with the eggs maturing significantly prior to hatching. Many other birds are altricial -such as ospreys or eagles -- and are hatched virtually naked and blind and must be fed by the adults until they can feed themselves. As you walk along Siesta Key beach watch for an osprey flying over the shoreline. You may see the male or the female taking a turn at catching fish to feed newly hatched chicks. Snowy plovers are hatched with light feathering and soon begin running about and searching for food such as small insects or anything else they are big and fast enough to catch and eat. This is a very challenging time for such small young birds. They

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

A chick with an adult photo by Clair Herzog

of its natural protective coloration. From hatching to flight stage snowy plovers and other beach nesting birds are confronted with many dangers. As you walk the beach watch for stake and line enclosures identified by U S Fish and Wildlife or Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation signs. Such an enclosure is a no trespassing area set up to protect nesting birds and their chicks. However, REMEMBER, BIRDS DON’T READ!! And these very small chicks may be running about or resting in the sand outside the perimeter of the signed area. Please give the nesting birds and chicks plenty of room. It’s fine to watch the chicks from a safe distance -- a distance safer for them is the issue, of course. Siesta Key Beach offers an enormous array of interesting wildlife to see and enjoy. One of the most interesting places to find seashore organisms is in the WRACK. As you walk along the beach you will notice the sea washes up onto the lower beach and then rolls back. Each time the Gulf of Mexico sea water washes up it may carry any objects from sea weed (algae) or sea grasses to small sea creatures. The wrack is the seashore line of debris dropped from the waves as they lose energy against the beach. You might think of the wrack as being like the ring around a really big bath tub -- the

A dead seahorse lying on its side on the seashore wrack. Photo by Ms. Margaret Long of Ocean Pines, Maryland

Seahorses are immediately interesting because of their shape and they are actually a unique kind of marine fish in the genus Hippocampus. Notice the horselike head, body and curved tail that it often uses to “anchor” itself in seaweeds. As with many other kinds of small fish, the shallow waters off Siesta Key beach may be a friendly environment for this weak swimmer. We hope you enjoy Siesta Key Beach and its truly diverse array of birds and other shoreline wildlife. Future articles in Siesta Sand will describe some of its year round residents, the many migrating birds that visit to rest and feed before resuming their long north to south flights and, of course, the astounding array of creatures that wash into the wrack.

Association Matters, Legally Speaking

ting on the fence, If you have been sit sell. nOW is the time to

By Vanda Y. Bayliss, Esq

|Member Input Condominium and homeowners associations are run by a board of directors. The board is elected by the members to oversee all aspects of the operation of the condominium or subdivision. The members individually cannot act on behalf of the association. Only the board, or those to whom it delegates its power, can do so. Sometimes members complain that, once elected, the board does not listen to them. Is it required to do so? Yes and no. Any time a quorum of the board is present and discusses association business, it is considered a “board meeting.” According to Florida law, notice of all condominium board meetings must be posted at the designated spot at least 48 hours prior to the meeting. Longer notice, 14 days, is required for board meetings to discuss or vote on non-emergency special assessments and to discuss or vote on amendments to rules regarding unit use. Homeowners associations must follow similar rules unless the governing bylaws contain different requirements for noticing meetings. Notice is required because members are generally entitled to attend all board meetings. (Only meetings with the association attorney to discuss pending or proposed litigation or to discuss personnel matters may be closed.) Members are also entitled to speak regarding each item on the agenda. The board may, however, enact reasonable rules as to the frequency, duration, and manner in which members may address the board. Delaying all member comments to the end of the meeting, when voting has likely already taken place, would not comply with the spirit of the law requiring that members must be heard. A commonly enacted rule is, “Members may speak before the board votes on any issue, but may only speak once on each subject, and for no longer than three minutes.” While ensuring meetings do not run unreasonably long,

the down side of a blanket “3 minute rule” is that a knowledgeable member may have very valuable insight and expertise that the board is interested in hearing. A more liberal rule limiting all speakers to 3 minutes per issue “unless the board agrees, in its sole discretion, that additional input would be valuable” would provide some leeway. Of course, any time one person is allowed more time than another, the one cut off may feel discriminated against. Regardless, a board would naturally be more inclined to allow significant member input without an eye on the clock if the input is well thought out, on point, and contains facts and figures rather than mere opinions. Occasionally, a member wants the board to address an issue that is not on the agenda. The board is not required to address a matter just because a member so requests and may not, in fact, address an item not on the posted agenda unless it is an emergency. However, if 20 percent of the voting interests petition the board in writing to address a certain matter, the board must add the item to the agenda of the next board meeting. In any event, the matter must be addressed within 60 days even if a special meeting will be required. While the board must address the matter at a properly noticed board meeting, and allow for member comment, please note that does not mean that the board must take any action. The ultimate decision is up to the board. The decision of whether to reelect or recall the board, however, is up to the members.

concierge realtors We work with you from beginning to end to make a smooth transition.

Andrea Smith 941.320.7020

Carolyn Kofler 941.780.0605

CALL TODAY to list your PROPERTY or for a FREE Market Analysis of your home. We Provide a Unique and Highly Succesful Marketing/Sales System

Siesta Key Real Estate Report

(See Florida Statute §718.112(2)(c) for condominiums and §720.303(2) for homeowners associations.)

Email vandabayliss@gmail.com with any questions.

Blooming this month: Succulents: Full of juice, full of vitality, and freshness. A plant having fleshy and juicy tissues. Thirty plus plant families have succulent members, storing water in leaves, stems, or roots which allows them to survive extended periods of drought. Succulent plants live in deserts, rain forests and all climates between. They are found on all continents except Antartica. The flush of bloom in spring of night blooming Cereus delights us. The fragrance lures pollinators from miles and neighbors from blocks to gather in celebration. The succulent’s unique shapes, colors, and inflorescence entice collectors and landscapers. Going away for an extended period? Succulents will be alive to greet you when you return home. Flowers range from the tiny clusters of

blooms of many members of the Crassula and Euphorbia families to the showy blooms of the Cacti families. Succulents are vital to the landscape in areas such as Florida that have sustained dry periods. New to succulents? Visit the Sarasota Succulent Society where you will be introduced to many members of this unique group of plants. Information can be found on the web site at SarasotaSucculentSociety.org. Submitted by Wilda Meier, Accredited Landscape Design & Gardening Consultant SARASOTA GARDEN CLUB

For more information call (941)894-1255 Or visit www.keysolutionsrealestate.com

*Statistics provided by NAR RPR

Looks like January 2015 is a repeat of January 2014. They both saw sales drop from December, pending sales drastically increase, and inventory on the up. It looks as though homeowners are anxious to see what the market has to offer.

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

ft!

This week’s featured listings...

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

Gulf Front & Beach Access!

Enjoy the best of Siesta in this beautiful, light and bright turnkey furnished luxury condo. One of only 2 in the complex with outdoor living on 2 gulf-front terraces. Crescent affords styling, high-end finishes, and luxury amenities. From the exquisitely appointed living space, to the open gourmet kitchen featuring wood cabinets, granite, stainless appliances and 2 peninsula bars, this unit has it all. $2,249,000

For Boaters & Beachgoers!

Adorable Palm Island house with canal frontage and boat lift only 1/2 mile to nearest Siesta Key beach access and a quick jaunt to The Village. Updates on this home include seawall, pool, spa, roof, kitchen, bathrooms, and electrical. This great room floor plan features 4 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms plus a one car garage. Open floor plan with a huge enclosed Florida room overlooking the pool and canal. $835,000

Unparalleled Gulf Views!

This 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo close to Crescent Beach has the best views on Siesta Key! Very large lanais with full Gulf of Mexico views for all those spectacular sunsets. So close to the beach you feel like you are hanging over the water! Completely and elaborately renovated and turnkey furnished. A gorgeous heated pool only steps from the beach and the warm waters of the Gulf. $985,000

View All Siesta Key Listings at KeySolutionsRealEstate.com Or Call 941.894.1255 For More Information!

True Florida Lifestyle

Surrounded by native botanical gardens and mature cypress trees it is nestled on two private lots with a pool and has been completely renovated. Within walking distance to Shell Beach and short bike ride to Siesta Key sugar white beaches and the Village offering a wide variety of dining, shopping and entertainment. 3 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms with private deck offering calming views of Roberts Bay. $975,000

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

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Accommodations Locator Map

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net

Marriage Recommitment “Say I Do, Again”, is a vow renewal event held annually on Valentine’s Day on Siesta beach. Participants pay a ten dollar fee and receive a commemorative certificate, a rose, a personalized cloth goodie bag and koozies. Couples are also treated with music on the beach, ceremonial cupcakes and punch after the event.

Started in 1989, Sarasota County Parks and Recreation Supervisor, Diana Finnegan related, “Two significant additions were included this year. A simultaneous ceremony took place on Caspersen Beach in Venice and couples were allowed to pre-register or walk up and register at the event. Registration increased by 10% this year.

Don Gursky interrupting his wife Tammie texting, with a surprise kiss just before the marriage re-commitment ceremony. These Sarasota residents have been married 38 years.

Two families from Argentina excited to be participating in the “Say I Do, Again” ceremony. Mariela and Claudio Krochmao married 22 years with Marcelo and Andrea married 24 years. Their children in the foreground are Florenzia (18), Jimena (13), Julian (17), Matais (15), and Michelle (22). This is their third consecutive year visiting Sarasota.

This years “Say I Do, Again” couples were treated to a spectacular Siesta Beach sunset. Mary and Eddie Bryant, born and raised in Sarasota, anticipating their very first marriage re-commitment ceremony. She saw the event listed in “Things To Do in Sarasota” and said, “I can’t pass this up.” They have been married 10 years.

Aaron and Katie Delucca of North Port, patiently waiting for their first “Say I Do, Again” ceremony to begin on Siesta Beach. They’ve been married almost 3 years and Katie is eight months pregnant with their first child. Aaron discovered the event online.

Nita and Ray Worstine of Ohio celebrating their first marriage re-commitment ceremony on beautiful Siesta Beach. They started dating in 7th grade, were baptized together, and were married while Ray was on leave between tours of duty in Vietnam. They have been married 48 years.

941.349.0194 • www.islandvp.com ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC

Island Girl Some of you may know me as the short, bubbly blonde named Kendall. Even though I was originally born in New York, I proudly call Sarasota my hometown. I’ve worked at Sarasota Hooters for over 7 years now and coincidentally wings are my favorite food. You’re sure to find me either tanning on the beach, shopping or working on my arts and crafts! Kendall is modeling the Floridita Swimwear line (www.Floriditaswimwear.com)

Kendall

If you would like to be considered for our next Island Girl, contact us at islandvp@verizon.net (You must be at least 18 years old to participate)

SIESTA SAND March 2015 • www.siestasand.net