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AUGUST 2022 941.312.0665 | 27TH STATE MEDIA, LLC LANDINGS EVENT HAPPENINGS
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Back-to-School Summer Bash
From business as usual to business without a name. That describes the five-day whirlwind that transformed the ice cream parlor on Ocean Boulevard that was previously known as Big Olaf Creamery. Whether the immensely popular longtime Village mainstay, which has operated there for 40 years, ever bears that name again is undetermined. For now, it is selling Yoder’s Southern Creamery ice cream and all signage and references to Big Olaf have been removed. The drastic and frantic changes come in the wake of a public warning issued July 2 by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention that linked, at least in part, Sarasota-based Big Olaf Creamery to an outbreak of listeria that has caused one death and 22 hospitalizations in 10 states. The CDC recommended that any Big Olaf ice cream be thrown out and
The Landings Children Club, LMA, and LRC invite all Landings families to our “BACK-TO-SCHOOL SUMMER BASH.” This event is free for all families living in The Landings. Come out on August 5th from 4 to 7 PM to enjoy many fun activities. We plan to have to have face painting and outdoor games. The LRC pool will be open for all to enjoy. You will have the opportunity to enjoy our superb tennis courts and meet our professional coaches. It’s going to be a fun-filled day where you can meet other families and kids in our neighborhood. There will also be food and light refreshments. Save the date for August 5th from 4-7 PM. Don’t miss this event! Please RSVP to Carly Danzig at LandingsKids@gmail.com or call/text (215) 932-1715. We look forward to seeing you all!
that consumers should clean any areas, containers, and serving utensils that may have touched Big Olaf ice cream products. The agency also said that Big Olaf’s headquarters in Sarasota’s Pinecraft neighborhood was voluntarily contacting retail locations to recommend against selling its ice cream products until further notice. Continued on p. 11
Signs, Signs, Everywhere New Signs
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page
GOING TO THE DOGS
required. Use pp with Group Code h.
. Questions? Contact Meet Finn mail.com.
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page
s or contact PASSAGES ni@tiscali.it
Landings’ Volunteers Who Work For You
0 music cover fee. so required. To be r.
e for beer & wine. Remembering Elliot Jerome Welch page KID’S CORNER
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t early March. RSVP arge.
signup notReynolds, needed. Kennedy 21
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page
Kudos to The Landings Signage Committee and Board for the new street signs through The Landings. More new sign photos are on pages 10-11.
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This is the first of a series of articles highlighting the work of special volunteers who help to make our community so special. Have you ever wondered why we have so many lakes (retention ponds) in The Landings, their purpose, and how they are interconnected? The Eagle interviewed Jeff Smith, chair of the Lakes and Drainage Committee. Jeff and his wife Judy have been owners in The Landings since 2005 but had been coming to The Landings to visit his father-in-law, Ed Redding, since 1985. Jeff was an executive in the International Agribusiness, where he was involved with logistics around the world for the distribution of grain and related products. In addition to his committee work, Jeff also serves on the LMA Board. Jeff spends 5 to 10 hours a week with his committee working on the 9 lakes, 13 fountains, and the drainage systems throughout The Landings. The following explains why it take so much time: Our lakes are spillways and retention ponds that move water from outside The Landings and through our system of ponds, into the mangroves and intercoastal waterway. Ponds also handle sediment retention. The goal of the committee is to ensure that the water keeps moving. Water from outside The Landings flows into the North Lake and then to the Tree House
Lake before spilling into the mangroves. The Carriage Lake connects to the Portside Villas Lake and then to the Heron Lake which goes into the drainage ditch and eventually to the mangroves. Starling Lake connects to Lake Mayne on Eagles Point Circle, which flows into Bayview Lake and then into mangroves. Courtside Lake, on the north side of the tennis courts drains directly into mangroves. Jeff and his committee must make sure that drains and conduits are functioning properly and that the outlets into the mangroves are safe and flowing. He needs to inspect and clear impediments in ditches that might interfere with the flow of water. Sediment in the North Lake has reached its limit of retention. Coordination with the County is underway to address that problem. Lake mitigation erosion is another area of involvement. Work is underway on lakes to address this by using riprap. Most recently, work is being done on Lake 6 across from the tennis courts. Another effort by the committee is to have a ring of responsibility (buffer of grass) on all lakes that will lessen seepage of nitrogen into the lakes and prevent algae and harm to the marine ecosystem. It also prevents heavy landscaping equipment from being on the edge of lakes which contributes to erosion. Growth of native vegetation on the edges of the lakes will further help to control runoff and erosion.
Calls and requests to solve problems come in at all hours and Jeff is there to respond. When asked what it has been like to chair the committee with the help of Roger Kidder and Mike Knupp, Jeff said: “It has been a very positive experience. I was expecting a lot of difficult requests and upset residents complaining about the lakes, but that hasn’t been the case. By being open and transparent I have been able to work with everyone to get the best results. It’s been a very enjoyable experience being chair of the committee.”
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The Landings Eagle
AUGUST 2022
President’s Report There is much to share so I will be brief. I will share all the recent developments from the Roads Committee with the other reports. You will hear that the committees have been very busy and you have probably already seen or heard about the new signs. I’m excited to share that The Landings has a new committee, the Kid’s Club. The club is planning its first event, a Back-to-School Summer Bash in August. You can get all the details on the front page of this month’s Eagle. Because the Social Committee did not attract any volunteers, it seemed logical that our younger neighbors be the recipients of committee funds for events. You will also note that some of our other committees are fine-tuning their focus. This is good news for us all. Volunteers are the backbone of our neighborhood and benefit from the interest and expertise we share. Please support our committees, volunteer on an ad hoc basis, or suggest a committee whose efforts and interests align with yours. I would like to share a recent discovery I made that simplifies the process for registering guests. We all have access to an on-line application named dwellingLive. It is very simple tool and enables you to manage your guest list and allows you to send a pass to your guest via e-mail. The e-mail includes the owners name and the dates for which the pass is valid. The pass also includes a QR code. We are working to add a QR reader to make the process even simpler. (The text option is in the works, too.) If you have never used the application, you will need a first-time log-on code. Please write to me and I will arrange for one to be sent to you. Please see the adjoining article on using this new and efficient tool. Also, if there is interest, we can run a tutorial for anyone who is reluctant to use it. Good news, the shenanigans have decreased. The trail camera has not uncovered any unLandings-like behavior. Remember to check the Eagle for events and read the e-mails you receive, especially
941.312.0665
By Elida Ramberger
as hurricane season is upon us. Roads Committee update: The Roads Committee met on July 1st. We learned that Stantec received one bid in response to their request of six companies, four of which attended the bidder’s meeting and were expected to submit a bid. Our lawyer made the argument for accepting the single bid for the following reasons: 1) The Roads Committee hired a consulting firm that has the expertise to analyze and define the materials and workmanship needed to restore roads, remediate drainage issues, improve pedest r ia n sa fet y a nd recom mend contractors, 2) Stantec performed according
to expectations when it solicited multiple bids, 3) Receiving a single bid that was within industry standards for cost was acceptable and an indicator of the reality of how difficult it is to find contractors for our type of job. (Florida is experiencing a boom in growth both in the commercial and government construction arena.) The Landings will continue to compete with other projects in the area. As President, it seemed unwise to think that any board members would support a vote to proceed with the project given the provision that two bids are necessary unless no other contractors in the county provide the service. Stantec will be our advocate during the project and therefore is expected to work with the contractor awarded the project. That said, the contractor selected must also be a contractor that Stantec knows to be able to perform the multiple aspects of the project. An important element when requesting bids is that LMA is unable to commit to a contract until all funds necessary to pay the contract are in the bank. The result is that LMA is forced to tell the contractor that we cannot commit for a minimum of 60 days due to the special assessment rules. The roads committee has decided to reengage with Stantec to seek bids again in about six months.
LMA Road Restoration July 2022 Paving Drainage and Traffic Improvements Mobilization, base allowance, etc. $730,000 base allowance Additional base allowance Additional site inspections -time delay
Per unit $2,325,713.00 $604,384.00 $969,500.00 $3,899,597.00 $540,000 $137,000 $4,576,597.00
C&D pay 50% of the cost of Tracts C & D
$5,554.98
$6,519.36
www.islandvp.com
Easy Guest Check-In Tool
dwellingLive Instructions E a s y, q u i c k , a n d f o o l - p r o o f g u e s t reg i st rat ion i s at you r f i nger t ips. d we l l i n g L i ve, a n o n - l i n e s y s t e m , i s available around-the-clock and is faster than registering a guest with the busy gate guard. We are using the e-mail guest pass now with plans to incorporate a text guest pass soon. The goal is improving guest interaction with the gate guard. dwel l i ngLIVE ca n b e fou nd at URL: https://community.dwellinglive.com. To log in, enter your e-mail and create password. If you have already received your password, please skip down to the next paragraph. For anyone who needs a temporary password, please send me an e-mail, dwellingLive@ gmail.com and I will arrange for one to be forwarded to you. ht t ps://com mu n it y.dwel l i ngl ive.com takes you to this page:
Next steps: Select your account, assigned by address Select “Add Guest” at top of page “Add Guest” pages prompts to assign temporary, permanent, or party status, enter guest’s name, select e-mail for Pass, dates for which the Pass applies and then scroll to the bottom of the page and click “Save.” The pass will be e-mailed to your guest. The guest is saved on your guest list. You may at any time revise their status using the “Edit” button next to their name. The “Edit” page prompts for the fields to be changed and “Save,” “Delete” or “Cancel” the edits.
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LMA Meeting Notes
AUGUST 2022 27th State Media, LLC
By Trebor Britt
LMA Pres. Elida Ramberger began the meeting by a n n o u n c i n g t h e f ol low i n g during the president’s report: • The m i nutes of t he last LMA Meeting were presented and approved. • A new com m it tee h as been formed titled the Kids Club. A back-to-school event i n col laborat ion w it h t he Landings Racquet Club is being planned for next month. The projected date is August 5 for approximately four hours. The event will include tennis, pool games and finger foods. Future plans will include some public service projects as well. • The Nature Trail and Kayak Committees are fine tuning their focus. Volunteers are the backbone of our neighborhood a nd t h e whole c om mu n it y benefits from their expertise. Residents are asked to volunteer for a committee or suggest a new committee to benefit the community. • Residents can register their v isit i ng g uest s at t he m a i n gate by the use of an online application. An emailed pass can also be sent to a guest for use at the gate. Instructions for this process should be found in this copy of The Eagle. • Ramberger was pleased to announce shenanigans appear t o h ave d e c r e a s e d i n T h e Landings. The newly installed Nat u r e Tra i l c a me ra s h ave not picked up any suspicious activity and there have been no reports to the Sarasota County Sheriff ‘s department.
COMMUNICATIONS CONSULTANT GROUP
FINANCE REPORT
SIGN COMMITTEE
Treasurer, Har vey Greller reported a $5,317 deficit for the month of May, but year to date the surplus is $20,287. Much of it is due to placing road repair projects on the back burner until the roads project is completed. He also reported the collections balance due from owners has been reduced to $11,224 as of the end of June.
Treasurer, Har vey Greller reported this project was put on hold last month mostly due to add it ion a l road s proje c t efforts. It will be placed on next month’s meeting agenda. A resident mentioned she had a con nection to Turtle Rock Association that may be helpful moving forward.
SAFETY AND SECURITY
Chairman Michael Knupp reported raising the gate entry sensors at the main gate which widens the reading band. This change has improved previous entry issues except for drivers who at tempt to go t h rough them too fast. The committee recommends not passing the r e ade r mov i ng f a st e r t h a n 15 mph. Re s ide n t s a r e r e m i n de d, i f yo u s e e s o m e t h i n g , s ay someth ing by reporting the incident to the Sheriff’s Office. The sheriff’s office indicated the few reports of crime at The Landings is likely due to people not reporting issues. Residents who leave for an extended period are asked to be sure they secure loose lawn furniture and grills, etc. Also, please let a neighbor you’ll be gone. Residents are asked to travel through the community even slower in their vehicles during this summer has children are out of school and many more will be running, walking and on their bikes, scooters etc. Committee chair, Joan Koplin reported new signs have been installed. Another order and a few adjustments will be made moving forward.
EDITORIAL COMMITTEE
Chairman, Norm Olshansky r e p or t e d t h e c om m it t e e i s rev iew i ng t he new paper qua l it y as it does not meet expectations. The issue will be
discussed at their next meeting. The committee is pleased with new columns and submissions from new residents.
LAKES
Committee chair, Jeff Smith reported spending $1,500 and $1,800 respectively to replace a pump on Carriage Lake South and Lake 5. Once installed the committee expects them to last a long time. The first capital project was s t a r t e d a n d c o m pl e t e d b y installing 125 yards of riprap on the lake near the Racquet Club over the course of three days. A couple inches of sediment i n ab out one t h i rd of La ke 1 needs to be removed. The responsibility for dredging lies in the hands of Sarasota County. This issue was included in the fi nal report of the Sarasota B ay Wat e r sh e d S t udy. T h e committee is hopeful the report will be accepted and the county will be able to locate the nearly $360,000 for the project.
MAINTENANCE
M a i n t e n a n c e C o m m it t e e chair, Judy Greene, reported roof tiles will be installed at the North Gate entrance soon. A mot ion was made to approve up to $800 per month for use by the Maintenance Com m it te e. A f ter t went y m i nut e s o f d i s c u s s io n t h e motion passed unanimously.
NATURE TRAIL/KAYAKS
Allison Taylor enlisted Jackie M a s s a r i to le ad t he K aya k Project. Massari hopes to encourage other residents to help and possibly develop a more suitable kayak launch as the current launch area is muddy, mucky and somewhat treacherous. Bottom rails have been added to the kayak racks so kayaks will no longer be resting on the ground. LMA Pres. Elida Ramberger no t e d a n ew K aya k Re nt a l Agreement will be presented for approval at the next meeting.
Allison Taylor reported water is still a problem on the Nature Trail. The committee is now con sider i ng t he pos sibi l it y of installing of a boardwalk potentially running from the street to the gazebo.
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT NEEDS COMMITTEE Ha r vey C a m i n s r e p or t e d having a few meetings with Argus regarding performance issues. The addition of Mary h a s i mproved m a n agement i s sue s, b ut eva lu at ion w i l l c o nt i nue m ov i n g fo r wa r d. The committee has also met with two other management companies, one of which was ver y i mpressive. T hat sa id, decisions to make any changes have been currently placed on hold.
ROADS COMMITTEE UPDATE Roads Committee Co-chair, Elida Ramberger reported the committee met with Stantec C o n s u l t i n g S e r v i c e , I n c ., r e c e nt ly. I n t h e s e a r c h for contractors, Stantec solicited bids f rom si x compa n ies, of wh ich fou r at tended t he bidder ’s con ference. Of t he four, only one submitted a bid. T he c u r rent est i m ated cost of the project is between $3.9 and $4.6 million making the approximate special assessment between $5,500 and $6,500. The cost of repaving from Highway 41 t o t h e n o r t h a n d m a i n gates will be shared by the commercial properties between those two entry points. Stantec did indicate that the single bid received was within current industry standards and pricing. LMA governing documents indicate expenditures of this si ze ne cessit ate re ceiv i ng t wo bid s. T here fore, t he decision to proceed with the road restoration project has b e e n delayed for ab out si x months. During this time, it is expected that material and labor supply challenges will
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LMA BOARD OF DIRECTORS: Elida Ramberger Jeff Smith Harvey Greller Harry Moser Sue Camins Joan Koplin Cali Lampton Paul Weiner Neil Goldman
President Vice President Treasurer Secretary Director Director Director Director Director
Mary Shrewsbury Property Manager Argus Property Management LMA COMMITTEE CHAIRS: Finance Communications The Eagle Environmental Governing Docs Review Hazardous Waste Lakes & Drainage Landscaping LMA Property Mgr Needs Comm. Maintenance Nature Trail & Kayaks Nominating Parliamentarian Roads Safety & Security Social/Community Events Technology Website Designer
Harvey Greller Joan Koplin Norman Olshansky Maralyn Kaufman Sue Camins Harvey Greller Jeff Smith Paul Weiner Harvey Camins Judy Greene David Osborn & Allison Taylor Cali Lampton Sue Camins Elida Ramberger Mike Knupp Vacant John McFetridge Eddie Goldstein
abate, producing an opportunity to receive more than one bid. The good news is that the engineering work will not be lost. Board members and residents attending in person and online discussed the Roads Project for thirty minutes. The goal continues to proceed with a one-time project. Until then, road repairs that are deemed necessary will be made. Should residents notice depressions, potholes, or other signs of wear, please send Elida Ramberger an e-mail with a description and location.
STANDARD OPERATING PROCEDURES COMMITTEE Boa rd S e c ret a r y, Ha r r y Moser reported much of the manual has been updated. Once updating has been completed, the committee will present The Board all revised policies for approval.
Serving The Landings Community since 1992|27th State Media, LLC | 941-312-0665 PO Box 35105, Sarasota, Florida 34242. Publishers: Brion Palmer To advertise in print or on-line call 941-312-0665. Advertising Representatives: Irene Brooks and Brion Palmer. Please note that contributing writers and photographers are acknowledged with bylines accompanying their submissions. We sincerely thank everyone for their contributions. The Landings Eagle is published monthly and is partially funded by The Landings Management Association & Landings Racquet Club, but is independently edited and reported by Landings residents. The Landings Eagle is published by 27th State Media, LLC, a Florida LLC. Advertising rates and information will be gladly furnished by calling 941-312-0665, We are ready to answer your questions and to assist you in preparing your ad at no extra charge. All advertising and editorial content is subject to editing to conform to our style, and is copyrighted 2020 by 27th State Media, LLC and may not be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Violators will be prosecuted under federal law. The publisher reserves the right to edit or reject copy for any reason. 27th State Media, LLC is not responsible for any claims made by the advertisers. To access each issue of The Landings Eagle, please go to: www.islandvp.com. Simply scroll down to The Eagle image and click on it for the current issue. If you would like to view past issues, click on the text, “TO VIEW PAST ISSUES OF The Landings EAGLE, CLICK HERE”That will bring you to a list of the back issues going back to July 2013. For anything earlier you will need to go to the website: www.landingseagle.com ©
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The Landings Eagle
AUGUST 2022
941.312.0665
www.islandvp.com
BOARD & COMMITTEE MEETINGS
Inside events are for fully vaccinated August 2022& boosted members Good news COVID rates have of dropped significantly, we have insideare social events! Below is the–tentative schedule Landings activities.so Indoor LRCrestarted group events paused until Key dates are listed below, we are back in action! Paige Packman COVID positivity drops below 8%. The LRC will send out a weekly update when these events have resumed. Fingers crossed it won’t be too long.— Paige Packman, LRC Social Director
Activity
Details
Activity
Details
LRC EVENTS
Limited to LRC members & invited guests only.
Trivia Challenge
August 2 & 16 , September 5 & 20 Lakeside room Tuesdays in 7 PM in Lakeside room
LRC EVENTS Trivia Challenge
Tuesday March 1 & 15th, 7 PM
Pancake Breakfast &
March
DATE/TIME/PLACE
EAGLE EDITORIAL
Tuesday 8/2, 1 PM Poolside Room
LHA
Thursday 8/11, 5 PM Poolside Room
LMA Board
Thursday 8/4, 7 PM Lakeside Room
LMA SAFETY
Monday 8/8, 4 PM Multi-purpose Room
How to Sign Up
How to Sign Up
8th,
GROUP
9 -11 AM Poolside
No signup needed. $5 fee.
Please sign up with Kevin during summer season, to confirm that we have enough participants. $5 fee.
No signup needed.
Koffee KoffeeKlatch Klatch
August 9 & 24, September 13 & 28 AM Poolside March 23rd, 9-11 9-11 AM Poolside Room
Pickleball
Tuesdays & Thursdays 2:30-4:30 PM Monday September 5th, late afternoon. Time TBA
Advance signup not required. Use TeamReach app with Group Code Please signupphone in advance at LRC Pro Shop. LPBS to stay in touch.
LRC BOARD
Monday 8/15, 3:30 PM Lakeside Room
9th, afternoon. Time TBA. To be US OpenDance Tennis Finals Salsa LessonsFriday September Series of 4 classes: March 7, Watch Party shown in Lakeside room.
Signup LRCin Office. Please in signup advance atQuestions? LRC Pro Shop. Contact Paige ppackman@gmail.com.
SOUTH III
Monday 8/22, 11 AM Poolside Room
SOUTH VI
Wednesday 8/15, 5 PM Poolside Room
TREEHOUSE
Tuesday 8/30, 5:30 PM Lakeside Room
Labor Day BBQ
14, 21, 28, 5-7 PM
LRC Summer Cooking Lessons Happy Hours
Wednesday, Sept4/1 28th, 5:30 – 7:30 PM 3/18,
LMA EVENTS
Open to Landings Residents and their guests.
No sign up needed.
Back to old style happy hours - BYOB and appetizers to
Watch share. for LRC emails or contact Valentina at vvalentini@tiscali.it
Rock & Roll Pool Party Friday 11,Come 6-9 PM Friday August 5, 4 7March PM at LRC. and meet other Signup required. $10 music cover fee. Landings Band: kids and Lisa their families! Enjoy tennis and Food Emailtruck Landingskids@gmail.com to signup. To be Rott & the signup also required. pool activities, plus refreshments. posted 2 weeks prior. Islanders. Food truck: Maggie LANDINGS-WIDE Open to Landings Residents and their guests. on the Move. Free Landings Kids Back to School Bash!
Schedule a time with the Landings “Fish Whisperer” Sign up with Norm Olshanky at Fishing the Gazebo to learn how to4/22 fish oratjust fish with a TennisatRound Robin if&you want Friday 3/25, 2 PM Signup at LRC, $7 fee for beer & nfpconsultingresources@gmail.com friend. Pro Exhibition
LMA EVENTS Casual Golf Group
Weekly social golf group with 9- and 18-hole games. Play Tuesdays at Serenoa Golf Club.
Newcomer Reception
wine.
Reservations required, contact scault@comcast.net to sign up.
March 23, 5-7 PM. For newcomers who moved to Landings since Jan 2020
Invitations to be sent early March. RSVP required. Free of charge.
Landings Free College
Restarted! Thursdays 2:30 PM through March 31st.
No charge; advance signup not needed.
Kayak Outing
Saturday March 6th at 10 AM to Phillipi Creek
Signup with Norm at insidethelandings@gmail.com Join kayak group on TeamReach with Group Code LKS.
REGULARLY SCHEDULED CLASSES GROUP
DATE/TIME/PLACE
PING PONG
Wednesdays, 10 AM-12 PM Multi-purpose Room
WATER AEROBICS
Tuesdays & Thursdays, 11:30 AM-12:30 PM Pool
LANDINGS-WIDE
Bike Outing
Sarasota Retreats for Signupall. with Norm at Sundays March 27 & April 10 th
at 9:30 AM
insidethelandings@gmail.com
We're all facing much changes and challenges, it's important to stay Join bike group on TeamReach with mentally & physically healthy andGroup haveCode a fun. LBS
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The Landings Eagle
AUGUST 2022
941.312.0665
Racquet Club News LRC President’s Report Aug u s t, t h e dold r u m s o f summer. It’s the hottest month on our calendar and our water bills are shooting up. As I write this article, the touring pros are finishing up a few European c l ay c o u r t t o u r n a m e n t s i n Gstaad, Bstaad, K it zbu h l, Omag, Budapest, Hamburg, and Palermo (that’s a lot of vowels!) before heading over across the pond for the summer USA hard court season. The Rogers Cup in Montreal and the Western & Southern Open in Cincinnati are the big tournaments in August leading up to t he f i n a l Sla m of t he year in NYC for the U.S. Open. My knees ache thinking about playing on hard courts. My how we’re (pleasantly) spoiled with our delightful clay courts.
Closer to home, we can feel the reduced traffic on Tamiami Trail. I went into the post office the other day and there was no one in line. Not a single person. I had to pinch myself as I could not recall the last t ime that occurred. That also means our
By Mayson Brooks
courts are not as busy nor are our pro’s. So, if you’ve been thinking about a tune-up for your game with Mo or Jenn, now’s a great time to get on their books. I can’t sing their praises enough of how good of teaching Pro’s they are and it’s always
fun to hear about their stories from their experiences in big time tennis. We have a reduced slate of s o c i a l ac t iv it ie s du r i ng t he summer, especially as many of us take vacations. Having just returned from a holiday in Europe, I was amazed how busy and crowded the airports were. I’ve flown through the Amsterdam airport dozens of times over the years, yet this trip it was busier than I’d ever seen it. A lot of pent-up demand for t ravel now that Covid is waning (I hope). But we do have several events coming up, so please check out the LRC Social calendar in this month’s Eagle. The Landings Racquet Club – tell only your best friends.
www.islandvp.com
Manager’s Report
By Kevin Lechlitner As I mentioned last month, the annual court resurfacing project will begin at the beginning of August. The 45,000 pounds of Har Tru were delivered at the end of July so we are ready to go. This year, courts 5-8 will each receive four tons of clay and new line tapes. Courts 1-4 will get a lighter lift of clay and keep their existing lines for one more year. I n t he su m mer of 2023, t he s c he du le ge t s r eve r s e d. T h i s way, every other year, the courts receive a substantial amount of clay and new lines.
News from the Court By Adrian “Mo” Moghina
There has never been a better time to learn how to play tennis then the present. The racket and string technology advances in the last 10 years has brought tennis to amazing levels. Both men and women are hitting the ball incredibly fast, and the ball is going in more consistently because of the rackets, strings, and technique. Everyone is putting more spin on the ball with less effort. And spin keeps the ball in. If you want to win, use spin. Your ability and understanding of how to u s e e f fe c t ive a nd
efficient technique is going to be the key to your success. The first thing that you need to learn is how to control the racket face. That means that you need to know how to let the strings do t he work for you. Pract ici ng fundamental racket skills drills is extremely important. The first time a person picks up a racket ( possibly longer depending on their experience holding a similar device such as a ping pong or pickleball paddle, squash, or badminton racquet), it’s almost you suddenly have a bionic arm. So, now you must
go to rehab to learn how to use t h at a r m. You must i m ag i ne that where the strings on the racquet face are where your new hand is. The ball will go in the direction where your strings are pointing in. T he b est racket face d r i l l s are very simple. Dribbling the tennis ball into the ground like a ba ske tba l l player d r ibble s a basketball is the first start. Dribbling the tennis ball up on the strings would be the next drill. See how many times you can dribble without moving from the position you started. T h e n , c h a l l e n g e yo u r s e l f to dribble the ball up and or down on the ground by moving forward, back, and sideways. It is much harder than it sounds, however, it will be the first key to have success holding a tennis racket. T he adva nced racket skills drills are where you put spin on the ball. If you are an advanced player, ask me, Jen, or Sandra to show you how to do some spin drills on your own.
You should start taking tennis lessons after you have learned to control the racquet face to ensure that you have effective and efficient technique using the correct muscles. Then you are truly ready to enjoy the sport of a lifetime. We will have a social round robin on Friday, August 26 from 9:30 AM to 11 AM. Sign up in the pro shop. See you on the courts
The Back-to-School Summer Bash is scheduled for Friday, August 5th from 4:00-7:00 PM. This is a free pool party for kids in the community that was organized by the Landings Children’s Club and the LMA & LRC. This party is open to any residents with children that live within The Landings community. In addition to the pool party, the Summer Bash will feature food and light refreshments, and plan to have face painting and outdoor games in addition to some fun on the tennis courts with the LRC teaching professionals. I even heard a rumor that a shaved ice truck could make an appearance. Please RSVP to Carly Danzig at LandingsKids@ gmail.com or call/text (215) 9321715. If Mother Nature doesn’t cooperate, the rain date for this event is Monday, August 8th.
Weekly Tennis Clinics August 2022 Kids’ Summer Clinics: Session II (July 11 - Aug 4) No Kids’ Clinics May 30 - June 4, July 4 - 8, August 8-12 *Clinic times subject to change based on attendance CLINIC
TIME
NOTES
SIGNUPS
*only 3.0 ladies team members
in ProShop Office 941-923-3886
MONDAYS 3.0 Ladies Team Clinic
8:00 - 9:30
Kids (10 and under) Clinic
5:00 - 6:00
Advanced Cardio Tennis
6:00 - 7:30
Middle School & High School Clinic
,
via Jen Fiers @ 805- 448-2669 or jenfiers@gmail.com 3.5 and above
TBD
via Tennis Director, Mo @ 707-287-1685 via Jen Fiers @ 805- 448-2669 or jenfiers@gmail.com
TUESDAYS 9:30 - 11:00
*only 3.5 ladies team members
via Tennis Director, Mo @ 707-287-1685
Cardio Tennis
8:00 - 9:30
2.5 and above
via Pro Shop on 3rd Friday of current month for next month’s dates
Kids (10 and under) Clinic
5:00 - 6:00
via Jen Fiers @ 805- 448-2669 or jenfiers@gmail.com
Middle School & High School Clinic
6:00 - 8:00
via Jen Fiers @ 805- 448-2669 or jenfiers@gmail.com
3.5 Ladies Team Clinic
.,t� ~ 7(/uee, ~ g'ee,r LUNCH & DINNER -SERVED 11 AM -9 PM Live Music Thursday-Saturday 5-9 pm on the patio deck
q)ill=��
886 Midni ht Pass Road www.TurtleBeachGrill.com
WEDNESDAYS
THURSDAYS 4.0 Ladies Team Clinic
9:00 - 10:30
*only 4.0 ladies team members
via Tennis Director, Mo @ 707-287-1685
FRIDAYS Kids Clinic
TBD
via Tennis Director, Mo @ 707-287-1685
SATURDAYS Cardio Tennis
8:00 - 9:30
2.5 and above
via Pro Shop on 3rd Friday of current month for next month’s dates
www.islandvp.com
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From the Grill...
Fresh fish your way: Grilled or Blackened & topped with Lemon Butter, Pico or Salsa, Soups, Sandwiches, Steam pots & more!
From the Market...
Large selection of fresh seafood. Special Orders Welcome!
★★★★★ via TripAdvisor (April 2022) BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT IN THE SARASOTA AREA BY FAR! FRESH, FLAVORFUL, PERFECTLY PREPARED FOOD. BE BACK NEXT YEAR!
“This is a small family run restaurant and the owners are onsite there. The owners and staff are friendly and welcoming. The service is great, but the food is phenomenal ! We had the blackened grouper, crab cakes and fish stew. It was seasoned and prepared perfectly ! We found it because we were looking a place to eat after a movie, and if we hadn’t looked for reviews on TripAdvisor we would never have found it. It’s in a small plaza in the back corner and does not stand out. It was 45 minutes from where we were staying but it was so good we had to go back again. Each of the last 3 years we have stayed for 2 months on longboat key and this was the best seafood restaurant we’ve been to, hands down! It was nice to meet the owner who it turns out was from the town next to us in Connecticut. You must try it, but I would recommend reservations at dinner time as it’s a small place.”
7119 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota Just off the Key, 1/4 mile south of Stickney Point Road 11 AM - 8 PM Monday-Saturday • Full menu available for takeout
941-413-7133 | www.FreshCatchFishMarketandGrill.com
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Local Issues Bring Lively Debate at Chapel About 75 people congregated at Siesta Chapel July 19 to listen to Sa ra sot a Boa rd of Cou nt y Commission candidates discuss the issues ahead of the primary election on Tuesday, Aug. 23. In this forum, sponsored by the Island League, which comprises S ave S i e s t a K e y, S i e s t a K e y Association, Siesta Key Coalition, Siesta Key Condominium Council a n d S i e s t a Ke y C h a m b e r o f Commerce, candidates were given t wo m i nut e s to a n s we r e ac h question in a Q&A series covering a variety of topics, most importantly how to mai ntai n respon sible, sustainable development. At the end, candidates were given two minutes to explain to Siesta Key voters why they should vote for them. Absent from the forum was Jo s e ph Ne u nde r, Re publ ic a n candidate for the District 4 seat. The remaining seven candidates took part: three Democrats and two Republicans for the District 2 seat; and one Democrat and one Republican for the District 4 seat. All will face off in the upcoming primary election. Participating in the forum were: Running for the District 2 seat: Democrats Fredd Atkins, Hagen Brody and Mike Cosentino; and Republicans Lourdes Ramirez and Mark Smith. Running for the District 4 seat: Republican Mike Hawkins and Democrat Daniel Kuether. One of the hot button topics for voters: increasing traffic. “A lot of times traffic studies ju st tel l u s wh at we a l r e ady k n o w. We n e e d s o l u t i o n s ,” At k i n s s a id, sug ge st i ng t h at better communication between residents, visitors and employees would help to establish more accurate peak traffic times. Brody sa id t h at pea k t i mes heading to and from the beach were most important to mitigate. “The trolley on the island is great, but we need trolleys to take people on and off the island,” he said. “I think people would use it if we do it right.” H awk i n s s a i d t h e c u r r e n t
county commission has failed us by not b et ter cont rol l i ng increasing traffic and allowing the Benderson complex to move forward at Stickney Point Road a nd U. S. 41. He wou ld l i k e to see a moratorium on new construction until the situation c a n b e i mp r ove d: “You c a n remodel, but you can’t add more traffic.” “No new development is not how the world works, unfortunately,” said Kuether. “What we need are some real concessions and compromises. That’s how we get real quality solutions.” Cosentino shared a story about growing up in Sarasota: “My eighth-grade math teacher at Brookside said, ‘Figures don’t lie, liars figure.’” By which he meant, “The usefulness of the (traffic) study is entirely predicated on who is conducting the study. We need to incorporate the island, self-govern and determine how to handle our own traffic.” “If a developer does a traffic study, it’s going to be faulty,” agreed Ramirez, who has a long history fighting developers and sued the county against building one of its proposed Siesta Key hotels. Ram i rez supports independent, third-party traffic
studies, followed up on by open discussion with citizens. At k i n s ag reed t here is too much t ra ff ic a nd new development will create more traffic, suggesting it may be time for a fresh community plan. “The community needs to be able to stipulate their wants and needs in a comprehensive plan,” he
said. “We have a jewel in Siesta Key.” And how would candidates address the voters’ growing loss of faith in politicians? “T h e f i r s t s olut io n i s n o t electing another Republican to the county commission,” Kuether said, suggesting that we need more forums where solutions
are proffered, not just where problems are complained about. Smith argued that a forum isn’t going to help if the data is faulty, “or you’ll just get the wrong answers again,” he said. T h roug h z on i ng problem s and mismatch of usage, Brody said that it’s easy to see people’s Continued on p. 18
Happiness is...Back to School
Okay…while back to school season may not immediately bring happiness to everyone, there is a way to make it feel that way. No matter if you’re headed back to hit the books, sending your littles back to the classroom, or well beyond that time in your life, nothing brings a smile like an after-school ice cream treat. Summer is still blazing even though fall is only a few weeks away, and Abel’s Ice Cream is ready to help you cool off with a tasty banana split or hot fudge sundae. Or if a
AMERICAN PUB FOOD WITH A
Gourmet Twist
Fresh Fare, Smooth Spirits & Exceptional Hospitality since 1992. Gecko’s on Stickney Point & 41 6606 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.248.2020 GeckosGrill.com
S
EA
FO
OD & SPIR
IT
S
Gecko’s Grill and Pub is part of the Gecko’s Hospitality Group family of restaurants.
simple cup or cone is more your style, this month’s featured flavors are Watermelon Sorbet (Chilling Watermelon Sorbet…it’s summertime in each scoopful!) and Purple Daze (Black Raspberry ice cream with a black raspberry crinkle, and dark chocolate black raspberry cups.) Whether or not the upcoming school year is on your radar, join the fun at Abel’s Ice Cream and get an A+ flavor experience! The only hard part will be choosing from their exceptional variety of
award-winning ice creams. Abel’s Ice Cream is located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota in the South Bridge Plaza. Open Sunday through Thursday from Noon-9:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday from Noon-10 pm. Learn more online at our website, www.abelsicecream.com or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Awarded their Certificate of Excellence for SIX years straight!
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AUGUST 2022 27th State Media, LLC
TURTLES
On Little Sarasota Bay
Casual Waterfront Dining Fun, Fresh & Affordable
Outdoor Waterfront Dining!
Open 11:30am-9pm Daily. Sunday Brunch starting at $10.99 from 10am-2pm.
Turtles All Day Menu APPETIZERS
SOUPS
New England Clam Chowder Cup … $6 Bowl … $8 Signature Crab Bisque Cup … $6 Bowl … $8
SALADS
Bang Bang Shrimp … $11 Coconut Shrimp … $11 Shrimp Cocktail* … $11 Calamari … $12 Stuffed Mushrooms … $11 Fish Bites … $11
Turtles Salad … $19 Turtles Deluxe Salad … $15 Caesar Salad … $17 With grilled shrimp or chicken Kale Salad … $19
SIDE SALADS
Grouper Sandwich … $19 Salmon BLT … $18 Mahi Mahi Sandwich … $18 Chicken Sandwich … $12 Cheeseburger … $12 Vegan Burger … $12
Fresh Garden Salad* … $6 Caesar Salad … $7 Turtles Wedge* … $11 Kale Salad … $10
SANDWICHES
ENTREES
FRIED SEAFOOD PLATTERS
Stuffed Shrimp … $21 Potato Crusted Haddock … $19 Coconut Crusted Mahi Mahi … $19 Gulf of Mexico Grouper … $22 Salmon … $21 Sea Scallops … $22 Shrimp and Seafood Au Gratin … $15 Fisherman Platter … $30 Baby Back Ribs … $22 Orange Pecan Chicken … $15 Filet Mignon … $22 Filet Mignon & Stuffed Shrimp … $31 Filet Mignon & Maine Lobster Tail … $48 Stuffed Shrimp & Maine Lobster Tail … $40 Twin Maine Lobster Tails … $53
Shrimp & Crab Scampi … $23 Salmon Pasta … $19 Chicken & Shrimp Curry … $19 Bang Bang Chicken & Shrimp … $21 Pasta Primavera … $14
Coconut Shrimp … $20 Large Gulf Shrimp … $18 Fish & Chips … $17 Fried Combo … $25
PASTA & BOWLS
DESSERTS
Turtle Pie … $7 Key Lime Pie … $7 Sample Platter … $10 Ice Cream Bar … $5
It’s Turtles Time!
8875 Midnight Pass Rd. • Siesta Key 941-346-2207 • Turtlesrestaurant.com turtlessiestakey • turtlessiestakey Ride the Siesta Breeze Trolley from the Village
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Signs, Signs, Everywhere New Signs
Every Seat has a
Water View
Lunch and Dinner Served Daily
www.islandvp.com
Continued from p. 1
Waterfront Dining…at Dining…at its best! 1500 Stickney Point Road Sarasota, FL
(Located at Channel Marker 62 at the Siesta Key South Bridge)
Now accepting reservations for large groups
BoatyardWaterfrontGrill.com • 941-921-6200
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Area Big Olaf Shops Go Nameless Eventually, on July 13 the state’s health department shut down Big Olaf’s production facility when traces of listeria were discovered on the premises. Big Olaf has recalled its products. Big Olaf’s Siesta Key location at 5208 Ocean Blvd. closed its doors Sunday, July 3 -- two days after Big Olaf’s corporate office learned of the CDC investigation. Johnny Seitz, and annual visitor from Tampa to partake in the Key’s Fourth of July activities, was one of many people who consumed Big Olaf ice cream as late as 10 p.m. Saturday, July 2. “The company should have closed, just as a precaution,” said Seitz when learning of the July 1 warning. He was among those who had one of the final servings of Big Olaf ice cream at the Siesta location, on the heels of the company learning of the warning. “If they knew Friday, they risked spreading listeria to everyone else from Friday and Saturday,” he added. “And the place was busy like always when I was there. Sort of crazy that they weren’t forced to close, since the CDC said it came from big Olaf. Doesn’t even make sense.” Mea nwh i le, t he Siest a Key busi ness sub s e quent ly u nder went a “t horoug h cleaning,” manager Caitlin Bray reported, including the scrubbing of all surfaces and containers. Also, the commercial cleaning company JAN-PRO provided disinfectant services, Bray said, during the break in business. Big Olaf branding was eliminated during that time period, leaving behind a naked storefront. The business reopened Friday, July 8, serving the Yoder’s product. “If we aren’t serving Big Olaf, we’re not allowed to use any of the branding,” Bray said. “So right now, we don’t have a name.” Indeed, employees are currently answering the phone with a generic “hello” greeting. Christian Ziegler, whose District 2 seat on the Sarasota County Board of Commissioners represents Siesta Key’s northern half, backed
the warning on July 3 after consulting with the county’s health department. “Big Olaf is great, but take a break,” he said. “They are pulling their product as well. Throw away any product you have at home.” Ziegler said flu-like symptoms such as fever and diarrhea usually appear within days and go away, “but can get more serious is you aren’t treated for listeria. “Symptoms can start two to three weeks after consuming the product. So, if you have eaten at Big Olaf within the last three weeks and get fever-like symptoms, go get tested ASAP. They can treat this – it only becomes an issue if you don’t get diagnosed. The elderly and pregnant women are most at risk.
Reactions galore
Among the hospitalizations is one that involved a fetal death. According to the CDC, listeria can cause severe illness (known as invasive listeriosis) when the bacteria spread beyond the gut to other parts of the body. Ziegler shared this July 2 comment from a Big Olaf spokesperson, whose tone was that of some skepticism: “For now it is only speculation as it is an ongoing investigation. Our brand has not been confirmed to be linked to these cases. I am not sure why only Big Olaf is being mentioned and targeted. “The original report we got from the Florida Department of Health on July 1 was that there are 23 cases reported. The first one reported was January 2022. Six out of the 23 patients mentioned having consumed Big Olaf ice cream, but nothing has been proven. We have been cooperating with the Florida Department of Health, FDACS and the FDA as soon as we were informed about the situation. We have been transparent and have answered all their questions and provided them with all the information requested from us, as the health and well-being of the public is our first priority.”
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Continued from p. 1 Added Ziegler, who noted that his family regularly eats at Siesta Key’s Big Olaf shop, “Big Olaf is a great business, so once they are in the clear let’s all rally together to support them.” Said Bray on Monday, July 10 of the reaction she’s getting from customers, “It’s been positive. It seems like most people are rooting for us.” The closing fueled Siesta-themed social media platforms with hundreds of comments from those with concerns about having eaten at the Village’s Big Olaf. Julie Fausey of Minster, Ohio reported that several members of her family ate there and that most felt ill in a variety of ways, including her pregnant daughter who consumed ice cream three times in one week. Linda Eberhardinger of York, Pennsylvania also expressed fear after returning from a visit that included eating at Big Olaf. “I was very worried and scared at first, but the fear is easing up because it’s been a couple of weeks and I haven’t had any symptoms,” she said. Would she return to the shop on future visits? “I probably would go back, unless they have another outbreak between now and when I return,” Eberhardinger said. Big Olaf’s many franchisees handled the situation in different ways. The other location closest to Siesta Key, located at 4862 S. Tamiami Trail in The Landings, remained open for more than a week after the warnings. It then closed temporarily, reopening July 16 serving Sarasota-made McClain’s ice cream instead of Big Olaf. It too removed all Big Olaf branding. Two lawsuits against Big Olaf have been filed in the aftermath of the outbreak. One involves the estate of 79-year-old Mary Billman, a former Sarasota resident living in Illinois, who died Jan. 29 in a Florida hospital. The other involves a Massachusetts woman who lost her pregnancy. Both were linked to the consumption of Big Olaf ice cream, the lawsuits say.
CONVENIENCE YOU NEED, ATTENTION YOU DESERVE Have you ever wished your primary care practitioner could spend more than a few minutes with you? Or, better yet, that they could come to you? Now, that’s possible! NP On The Key gives you a direct connection to a Nurse Practitioner, in your home or online. Get the personal attention you need from a provider who takes a whole-person approach to health and wellness. You can pay a la carte for home visits and telehealth appointments, or you can join our concierge practice for ongoing care on Siesta Key or in the Sarasota region. Tiffany Tompkins is a boardcertified Family Nurse Practitioner who brings over 15 years of medical experience and a compassionate, attentive bedside manner right to your door. She specializes in family and integrative medicine, and is committed to treating her patients as people, not numbers, with outstanding, personalized attention. Tiffany graduated with honors from both Simmons University (Boston, MA) with a Master of Science in Nursing degree, and Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA) with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree. Prior to becoming a Family Nurse Practitioner, Tiffany worked as a registered nurse in med-surg, critical care, neuro/stroke and pre-/post-operative units, both in hospital and ambulatory settings.
A PARTNER IN YOUR CARE Tiffany takes great care to partner with her patients on their medical journey from a holistic point of view. She looks at the whole person – mind, body and spirit – so she can treat and serve each person with shared decision-making and a level of health care delivery that’s hard to achieve in the typical clinical setting.
Her mantra is to treat others as she would like to be treated and as if her family member is the patient sitting in front of her, whether in person or virtually. Tiffany loves living in Siesta Key, Florida, where she and her family are avid paddle-boarders, pickle ballers, boaters and golfers. Tiffany is also passionately involved in her community through her
work at a nationally recognized charitable organization that serves Sarasota County.
NP on the Key, LLC
Tiffany Tompkins, APRN, FNP-BC, MSN, Owner (941) 444-5656 Tiffany@nponthekey.com www.nponthekey.com ADVERTORIAL
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AUGUST 2022
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Beach Smoking Ban Update
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Beginning July 1, individual counties and municipalities in Florida now have the choice whether or not to ban cigarettes and cigars with filters on public beaches and in public parks. The filters contribute to the ongoing litter problem, taking as long as 10 years to decompose. The Florida House and Senate passed the measure in late February and early March, respectively, and Gov. Ron DeSantis signed off on the law June 17. Previously, the issue had been under state control and bans had not been not allowed here in Sarasota County since 2013, when a circuit judge ruled it unconstitutional. Catherine Luckner, president of the Siesta Key Association civic group, has recently notified her members that she’ll be requesting that Sarasota County put the topic on an upcoming commission agenda. State Sen. Joe Gruters, who represents Siesta Key, pushed the measure for four consecutive legislative sessions before seeing an overwhelming victory this year (including a 30-8 House vote). Back in 2007, Sarasota County did indeed impose such a ban, lasting six years, with a 4-1 vote. While the issue of being subjected to second-hand smoke was at the forefront of previous arguments – one that triggered smoking bans on the inside of establishments – this time it was the issue of litter that ruled the day. Gruters reported that filters are the No. 1 piece of debris collected during beach clean-up efforts.
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By: Dee Ricapito While The Landings Shopping Center may never compete with long time epicurean eateries on Main Street, our local restaurants right here at The Landings have provided me with memorable di n i ng experiences indoors and outdoors, too. I can think of five eating establishments you can readily visit within five minutes of our home and feel like you traveled far and wide. There is something for everyone including vegetarian or meat lovers. For example, we had a fun birthday party at DaRuMa and greatly enjoyed their tableside Japanese stir fry. I love the neighborhood feel of Triple Tail Seafoods & Spirits and their upscale delicious flavors. For the record, the Corkscrew Deli has been serving salads, sandwiches, takeout lunches for three decades! Hard to beat that track record! Apollonia Grill takes us around
the world with Mediterranean delights. Not to overlook the freestanding Olive Garden, Italian restaurant chain. You will find desserts at Abel’s Ice Cream and a new fun experience at Vampire Penguin shaved snow/dessert. More to come: Origin’s Beer & Pizza Cafe, known for its local craft beers and pies. This will be their fourth location. Sarasota food truck Florence and the Spice Boys are planning on putting down roots here in The Landings. Publix is coming back in the fall with a second-floor grocery eatery. Wow … yummy. PS: Not to mention crossing the street. Great steaks at the Alpine Steak House & Butcher or Phillipi Creek Oyster Bar. What a wonderful place to live! “It doesn’t get any better than this”. P.S.: Let me know if I missed any of your local favorites.
BOAT RENTALS Fishing Charters
www.CBsOutfitters.com • Since 1959
941.349.4400
Open 7 Days 7am-6pm
1249 Stickney Point Road, just over the Stickney Point Bridge
Online Ordering for Take out and Delivery
“Voted BEST Parasail Company”
ParasailSiesta .com
941-346-8200 GOLF CART RENTALS
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Word Search rinerWord Search
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AUGUST 2022 27th State Media, LLC
Answers on page 22 www.TheMariner.com
Ways to Prepare Lobster
WORD LIST
BAKED BEIGNETS BENEDICT BISQUE BROILED BRUSCHETTA BURGER CHILI FONDUE FRA DIABLO FRIED FRITTATA GRILLED MAC AND CHEESE NEWBURG OMELET POT PIE POUTINE PRIMAVERA RAVIOLI RISOTTO ROLLS SALAD SCAMPI STEW STUFFED THERMIDOR
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Best Burgers & Tacos on the Island! 5110 Ocean Blvd. • Siesta Key Village 941-487-8116 • IslandHouseTapAndGrill.com
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AUGUST 2022
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Going to the Dogs
Hip Hooray! It’s National Dog Day! By Kyle Baker, Senior Pet Food Nutritionist at DOGPerfect
By Karen Snyder
It goes without saying: every day is a great day to celebrate our furry friends. Still, any opportunity to show them a little extra love is a good one, and National Dog Day offers just that. Created by the National Dog Day Foundation, this annual holiday for dogs and dog lovers is celebrated on August 26th right in the middle of the dog days of summer. It was introduced as a day to celebrate all dogs of course, but specifically it’s a day set aside to elevate awareness for canine support organizations and promote the adoption of rescue dogs. In other words, National Dog Day celebrates good feelings and great causes. Let’s take a look at why you’ll want to take time to mark this puppy loving holiday, and how you can help support dog-centered efforts in your community.
Top of the morning to you! I’m Finn Eliason! With a name like Finn, there must be some Irish in my bloodline! I turn eight years old on the Fourth of July, so I am a Yankee Doodle Golden Doodle. As a young Doodle, I fancied socks and there were plenty lying around our house! Unfortunately, I just didn’t flip them about. I consumed them and wound up at the vet quite a bit. As you know, vet bills are not cheap. Mom calls me a gentle giant since I love to stand on two legs and hug everyone with my two front paws. I love to cuddle. I’m very calm on my walks which I love unless we come across an aggressive dog who either wants to play or bite my head off! I really love other dogs but secretly prefer humans. You’ll see me and my mom, Molly, walking all over The Landings almost every morning. Don’t forget to stop, say hello, and let me hug you if you’re up for that. Otherwise, just say, “No, sir, down please!”
Dogs Enrich Our Lives
As a pet parent, you know how instrumental your pup has been to your own personal health and well-being. That’s right: not only does your love and attention provide a happy and healthy existence for your dog, but these highly affectionate and active animals enhance our lives in a number of ways too. They help keep us physically healthy. Did you know that dog owners are almost twice as likely to engage in physical activity? In fact, according to one UK study, dog owners are more active than their counterparts—even on days with bad weather. With that kind of commitment to activity, it’s no wonder the National Heart Association says that dogs can also help a person heal from a cardiac event. Speaking of heart health, our dogs also help lower our stress levels and boost hormones that aid positive emotional responses. Playing with, petting, or even just looking at a dog can lower your heart rate and blood pressure, and even short interactions with dogs will release Oxytocin—aka “the love hormone”—which increases feelings of relaxation, trust, and empathy while reducing anxiety. Of course, famously, our dogs are always happy to see us when we get up in the morning and absolutely over the moon whenever we come home. They offer comforting friendship, cheer us up during difficult times, and if we ever need someone to listen, they provide a non-judgmental sounding board. On top of all that, our best friends aren’t stingy with our friendship – they help us socialize more too! Any dog owner can tell you that pups are people magnets. Just take a walk around the block and you’re sure to encounter another pet owner who wants to chat. Even people who don’t have dogs are likely to offer a friendly smile because dogs just have that effect on people. Sometimes these friendly interactions that start with a walk can lead to a new friend—and maybe a new play pal for your pup!
How You Can Celebrate National Dog Day
Whether you’re a loyal and loving dog owner or just a fan, there are lots of ways you can help celebrate National Dog Day. For example, if you love dogs but you’re not ready to get one of your own, consider volunteering at a local shelter.
Engaging with sheltered dogs can help socialize them and ease their loneliness as they wait to discover their new family. If you’re short on volunteer time, donations of quality items or money can help these organizations provide their pups with better care. Donations are also great for organizations that train courageous canines to provide services like companion care or work with first responders. These particular dogs go above and beyond in their relationships with us, offering love, comfort, and even protection of lives and property through detection of narcotics, weapons, injuries, and disease. If you are thinking about getting a dog, please consider adopting from a local shelter. Believe it or not, more than 3 million dogs enter shelters in the US each year because they’re lost, abandoned, or surrendered by their owners. By choosing adoption, you give a dog a second chance at a life of love and fulfillment. Finally, if you’re already a pet parent, National Dog Day is another chance to indulge your pup with a favorite treat or activity. How about a trip to the local doggie bakery for a pup cake? Or maybe it’s time to try making dog friendly ice cream at home. Instead of a trip to the dog park, how about mixing it up with a visit to a dog friendly beach or hiking area. Even a long walk or ride in the car is a great way to observe National Dog Day, and celebrate living a happy and healthy life together.
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The Landings Eagle
AUGUST 2022
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New Siesta Key Incorporation has Higher Mill Rate
Passages
Elliot Jerome Welch August 8, 1936-June 23, 2022 Long t i me La nd i ngs resident a nd husband to Carole Welch, passed away June 23, 2022. Jerry was active at the club as a tennis player and friend to many. Jerry was born in Columbus, Ohio on August 8, 1936, to Elliot and Pauline (nee Napier) Welch. Jerry attended Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio where he was a member of the Army ROTC. While at Xavier, Jerry met Carole at a freshman dance and their enduring love story began. Upon graduation from Xavier, Jerry entered the United States Army as a Field Artillery Second Lieutenant. On Veteran’s Day 1958, he called Carole and asked her to marry him while he was home on leave for Christmas. She said, “Yes,” and their military adventures began. Together, they served their country for nearly 30 years – he as an Army officer and she by his side as an officer’s wife and mother of four children. She supported him through two tours in Vietnam and countless moves all over the world. Jerry became an Army aviator in 1959 and served in a wide variety of aviation, artillery, and financial management positions until his retirement. His most memorable a ssig n ment wa s f ly i ng nighttime electronic surveillance missions along the East German and Czechoslovakia borders with West Germany during the height of the Cold War. While in the Army, he received a Master Army Aviator badge, Legion of Merit for exceptionally meritorious service, three Meritorious Service Medals for outstanding meritorious service, Air Medal for heroism, and three Bronze Stars for outstanding meritorious service in combat.
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After retiring from the military, Jerry became a legal administrator for a Sarasota law firm for seven years before retiring a second time. Realizing that he still wasn’t ready to be retired, he then became the Director of Operations for a Sarasota insurance agency until he retired the third time. Jerry also had many interests outside work. He was an avid tennis player, and enjoyed travel, investing in the stock market, yard work, and being a household handyman. A mass of Christian burial will be celebrated on Thursday, August 4, 2022 at 9:30 AM at Incarnation Catholic Church, 2901 Bee Ridge Rd, Sarasota, FL 34239. A committal service will be held at Sarasota National Cemetery, 9810 State Rd 72, Sarasota, FL 34241 at 11:30 AM.
One half of a mill. That’s the new millage rate being proposed by Save Siesta Key as the group readies for a second stab at incorporation. Still very modest in comparison to other municipalities, it doubles the .25 starting rate that the group proposed last year, which resulted in an estimated budget of $3.75 million. Those numbers were met with skepticism by one of the members of the Sarasota County Legislative Delegation who voted no in a 3-3 tie vote that locally killed the incorporation effort last January before it could get to Tallahassee for consideration. “We see it as a necessary change to get through the political process,” said Tim Hensey, chairman of Save Siesta Key, during a July 13 public Zoom meeting that drew more than 200 viewers who were invited to submit questions. Vice-chairman Tracy Jackson and treasurer Steve Lexow joined Hensey as moderators, while new board members Jodie Tierney and Gary Rodkin introduced themselves with a short visual presentation. That new .5 mill rate will be one of the adjustments to a feasibility study the group will have to resubmit by Sept. 1 as part of the incorporation application process. Previously, the .25 rate represented an annual tax bill for Siesta Key residents of $96.75 based upon the average assessed value of a home on the island, which late last year was at $440,062. That value is likely to be a higher number when recalculated this year as property values continue to skyrocket. “We don’t think that we’re at a choking point with anyone financially,” Hensey said of the new mill rate. A mill is one thousandth of a dollar, or one tenth of one cent. The millage rate is the number of dollars of tax assessed for each
$1,000 of property value. Generally, the new .5 mill proposal doubles the scenario for taxpayers. Also new is a se cond rou nd of a fundraising campaign for the group as it seeks $100,000 for its new effort. As of July 20, it had raised $19,811 via 62 donations. Last year, it raised roughly $120,000 but most of that has been spent. “Right now, we only have enough money to get us through the end of August,” Hensey said. Save Siesta Key is a 501(c)(4) non-profit group, so contributions are not tax deductible. Those interested in donating can visit savesiestakey.org. Hensey said the investment would support something he feels is very promising for several reasons. “We’re not just wasting money. We’re not just spinning our wheels,” Hensey said. “We really think we’ll get there this time.”
A new political landscape
One of those reasons, Hensey reminded participants, is the recent shake-up from House redistricting that favorably altered the delegation, taking it from six members down to four. Gone is state Reps. Will Robinson and Tommy Gregory, who voted no. The third no vote can from Rep. James Buchanan, who Hensey said was scheduled to have a face-to-face meeting with Save Siesta Key on July 18. A viewer asked if a writing campaign would still be effective with Buchanan in mind, such as what hundreds did last year, and Hensey reaffirmed the value of such a tactic to reinforce community interest. “I’d love to see Buchanan get 400 letters,” Hensey said. Continued on page 16
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What’s Blooming? Staghorn Fern
Staghorn ferns look like deer or elk antlers, hence t he u nusua l name, The ferns are in the genus Platycerium of the polypod family. These plants do the best growing in the semishade and do well in the fork on a tree. They can be mounted on boards or driftwood, and can hang in a large basket on a large tree limb. These bright green leaves are a nice addition to your gardens. When planting in a tree, wrap some fishing line to keep it in place. About six months later the fern should be attached to the fork on the tree. You can then take off the fishing line. We have two huge staghorn ferns hanging from two large oak trees in our grassy area. We have one mounted on an oak tree in the Falling Waters Garden, and we just took the fishing line off of a Ligustrum tree that has three staghorn ferns mounted in the fork of the tree. These ferns are all drought resistant. They are located at Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Boulevard of the Arts. Visit sarasotagardenclub.org. Submitted by Kay Weber, Botanical Gardens Chair
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The Landings Eagle
AUGUST 2022
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Local Issues Bring Lively Debate at Chapel frustration when you look at the number of civic groups that displeased citizens have formed. Siesta Key generates 30% of the taxes in the county, Ramirez said. “We need to go in with the attitude that we’re important; we provide a lot of taxes, and you should pay attention to us.” At k i n s adde d t h at vo t e r s should “demand your respect” from the county. “To bemoan the process you all should be d ic t at i ng i s e m b a r ra s si ng ,” he said, urging change. “For 50 years, there hasn’t been a Democrat out here on the county commission. Are you happy with the way it’s going?” C o s e n t i n o s a i d i t ’s n o t t he voters’ i mag i nat ion t hat t hey ’re b ei ng ig nored. “O u r government doesn’t understand they represent us … and they d o n’t e ve n , t h e y r e p r e s e n t development. Go downtown and look at all the buildings. If that’s what you want Siesta Village to look like, then Brody’s your guy.” B r o d y, a l o n g t i m e c i t y commissioner, insisted he has a w ide ra nge of supp or t, i s independent and votes on issues. “Ladies and gentlemen, let me tell you how independent this guy is,” said Atkins, who then accused Brody of installing his friend on the housi ng board the day before. “I’m a willing pa r t icipa nt i n t h is process,” Atkins continued. “I’m unbowed, not some masquerade, like he k nows how to get to heaven when he’s sending everybody to hell.” “There are only two kinds of candidates up here,” Cosentino said. “Developer sell-outs and people act ually representing people.” Hawkins accused Neunder, Republican candidate for the District 4 seat who did not take pa rt i n the for um, of tak i ng more than $100,000 of developer money. “We need to get rid of commissioners put in place by developers,” he said. Cosent i no accused cu r rent county commission chair Alan Maio of being corrupt, and said
that the county and state are being run by the development com mu n it y at t he cost of everyone else. “Every person lo s e s,” he s a id. “We ne ed a county run by and for the people, not developers.” Hawk i n s, who g rew up i n Sarasota County, said that the county commission has abused our waterways. “They pumped a billion gallons of wastewater into Phillippi Creek, which spurs and grows red tide,” he said. “We must stop polluting our creeks and waterways; it’s our most valuable asset.” “Ma r i ne r e storat ion a nd maintenance of our waterways is most important,” Atkins agreed, adding that any other amenities aren’t much use without our pristine waterways. Brody favors a comprehensive pl a n t o t a k e a l o o k at o u r waterways. “We take the environment as second place to everything else,” Kuether said. “We don’t pay attention to these things until it’s already a problem.” Regarding the illegal shortterm rental situation, Cosentino said code enforcement should be doing more to enforce the law. R a m i r e z a g r e e d , recommending establishing a ded icated code en forcement officer to focus solely on illegal short-term rentals. “We cracked down on shortterm rentals on Lido,” Brody said.
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“We created a process where you can pull the rental certificate and they can be punished. We also limited the amount of people you could rent to.”
Continued from p. 8
Sm ith ag reed that code enforcement needs to step up when it comes to reg ulat i ng short-term rentals, especially due to the fact that too many people
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staying in these houses is a safety issue. “We need a registration program,” he said. “We need to limit parking and cut out the loopholes.”
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Landings Directory New owner(s) in The Landings since the last issue: John Franklin Baker & Kelli Baker, 1460 Landings Circle, Alexander Fratkin & Larisa Kutsak, 5450 Eagles Point Circle #305, Br uce Rez n ick & Lau ra Bernstein, 4773 Pine Harrier Drive, Jon & Ellen Demos, 5430 Eagles Point Circle #402, David Schatz & Robert West, 1476 Landings Circle, For current owner information, use the online resident directory on the Landings website: www.thelandingsofsarasota. com/login as their source for current directory listings and Landings information. Directory information is updated on the site no less often than weekly and changes are made to other Landing information when available. A directory, downloadable as a PDF file, dated November 2021 is also available on the LMA home page. If you want CURRENT INFORMATION, use the
Calling All Singers: No Prior Experience Required T h e L a n d o l i e r s i s a afternoons at 3:00pm starting contact Norman Olshansky at Landings based chorus that O c tob e r 11t h. I f i nt e r e st e d nfpconsultingresources@gmail. has been singing together for o r w a n t m o r e i n f o r m at i o n , com or 941-685-1690. many years. We are directed by Suzanne Stearns (a noted i nter n at ion a l a nd loca l dancer/singer/director) and Barbara Rothman, a talented accompanist. Learn to sing together a variety of music including ma ny show t u nes a nd Granada Gizeh Pearl popular songs that will be Habana performed at the Landings White in a March concert. Participants include people with and without formal Arizona musical training. Some have Tobacco extensive experience and ot hers do not. You don't Brown even have to read music to part icipate. Joi n th is fun Arizona Mayari group of neighbors who love Habana to sing, teach and learn from Licorice each other. Rehearsals are at t h e L R C o n Tu e s d a y
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website’s online directory! I encourage every resident to check their online directory listing for accuracy. Additions, changes, or corrections to the online directory may be requested by filling out the change form on the online Residents Directory page or by e-mail to: landings.directory@gmail.com.
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LHA Meeting Attention Kayak Notes Enthusiasts T he La ndi ngs Homeow ners Association held its reg ularly s c he du le d b oa rd me e t i ng on July 14, 2022, at 5:00 PM at The Landings Racquet Club. The board approved fences on Peregrine Point Cir E and Pine Ha r r ier Dr, t ree remova ls on Pine Harrier Dr, Peregrine Point Ci r E a nd Kest ra l Pa rk La ne. It also approved sola r pa nels on Pereg ri ne Poi nt Ci r E a nd landscape plans on Pereg rine Point Cir W and Pine Harrier Cir. The Association is pleased to announce that Robert Sperhac has been appointed as a member of its board of directors; he has been a resident for 8 years and h a s b e e n ac t ive i n L a nd i ng s activities. The next regular meeting is at 5:00 PM, August 11, 2022, in the Poolside Room at The Landings Racquet Club. If an owner wishes to attend the meeting, advance notice is requested (via e-mail to whitman@cs.com) with the topic to be discussed.
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The Kayak Committee is looking forward to another great year of outings. If you haven’t already done so, download the TeamReach app and sign in with LKS password. Communications, photos, and comments can be found there. If
you have questions about slots on the Nature Trail racks, or are willing to serve on the committee to help plan outings, or other tasks, please contact Jacquline Massari (Kayak Committee Chairperson) at jackiemassari@yahoo.com.
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The Landings Eagle
Kid’s Corner
AUGUST 2022
By Heidi Bodor
Kennedy Reynolds, 21, senior at University of Arizona Do you have any siblings? One sister, Bailey, 19 (Alabama) and one brother, Tristan, 23 (Chicago) What languages do you speak? I studied Hebrew and Spanish. How long have you been in The Landings? We are from Chicago and have been in FL about nine months. We recently purchased a house here in The Landings. We are knocking it down and rebuilding so we will be living here in about 1 ½ years. Currently, I am dog sitting for the Bernsteins for about three weeks. W hat you like most about T he Landings? My parents looked at a lot of houses and they loved the neighborhood with the great racquet club and mature trees.
Favorites: Ice cream: Bubble gum School subject: Biology because I love learning about ecosystems and animal environments Book/s: Fahrenheit 451 TV Show: Dexter, Vampire Diaries, Pretty Little Liars, Gray’s Anatomy Video game: Animal Crossing Sport: Lacrosse. I used to play in high school. Sport Team: Chicago Cubs Color: Pink Song: Mr. Blue Sky Movie: Little Mermaid Food: Sushi Least favorite food: Cilantro Holiday: Christmas Summer plans: I’m going to Chicago for two weeks the end of August. One word to describe you would be: Silly What do you do in your spare time? Binge-watch Netflix What do you want to be when you get older? A marine biologist If you could wave a magic wand, what ill in the world would you solve? If I could fix them all, it would be a long list. If I had to pick one, it would be climate
change. What advice would you give your parents? Not everything has to be perfect. I am a walking version of that saying! Would you rather meet your greatgreat grandparents or your great-great grandkids? I’d rather meet my greatgreat grandkids because they are a product of everyone else so that would be cool. If you could do something like your Dad/Mom do, what would you want to be able to do? I’d like to have dad’s patience and be as good of a cook as my mom. What famous person would you like to meet and have lunch with? I’d pick Miley Cyrus because I love her. She was my first concert. If you could wake up tomorrow with a superpower, what superpower would you want to have? The ability to talk to animals. If you could eat lunch with the President, where would you go and what would you eat together? I’d go to my favorite sushi restaurant, Fujiyama, and have spicy tuna rolls and discuss gun control. What is your biggest dream? My biggest dream is to be a lead animal trainer at the Shedd Aquarium. Favorite place to visit? Why? I love Kauai, Hawaii because it’s so peaceful and not commercialized. Animals, like sea turtles, will swim right up to you. One thing you have always wanted to do but haven’t yet? Scuba dive Favorite thing to do on the weekend? Swim If you could, what two animals would you combine? A sting ray and a Beluga whale W hat is the g reatest thing ever invented? Television, because you can learn from it. It cures boredom. It has everything. What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever had to do? Cut people out of my life that aren’t worthy of being in it. W hat is something that you’re thankful for? My family because I wouldn’t be who I am without them. I could have different parents but I wouldn’t be who I am.
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AUGUST 2022
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Word Search Answers Fishing at the Gazebo By the Fish Whisperer inerWord Search www.TheMariner.com From Word Search on page 21
T h e fol low i n g a r e t ip s for beginners who want to fish from the Gazebo. W h i l e s e ve r a l a n g l e r s u s e artificial baits and lures at the ga zebo, I prefer l ive sh r i mp as my bait of choice. Frozen or dead shrimp will work but not as effectively. Live bait can be found at most bait and tackle shops. The closest to The Landings are Economy Tackle on 41 just south of the La ndi ngs, a nd CB’s, wh ich is just over the south Siesta Bridge. Shrimp tend to be small during July and August. For fishing at the gazebo, when in the middle of a tide, the current can be strong, so the best way to hook a live shrimp is across the top, between the eyes and the dark spot which is the brain. Be careful not to penetrate the brain. You will want to keep the
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shrimp alive when you cast it into the water. You m ay a l s o wa nt to t r y hook i ng t he sh r i mp t h rough the tail if you have decent size shrimp. They will still be able to swim if hooked through the alternative method. Use a small #2 circle hook with spit shot about 18 inches above the hook. I prefer circle hooks. Too much weight will increase the chances that you will get hung up on oyster bars and coral. Cast to the right of the gazebo on an incoming tide and to the lef t on a n outgoi ng t ide. A n incoming tide moves south and outgoing tides moves north. Let the tide move your line up or down stream so that your bait bounces off the bottom. Try casting at varying distances. Keep your line taut enough so that you can feel the movement on the bottom. Periodically lift your
line off the bottom and then let it return. Too much slack in your line will limit your ability to feel bites. Unlike other types of fishing, you do not have to use a strong jerk when you get a bite. Let the fish bite more than once if it doesn’t take the hook right away and then raise the tip of your rod slowly until you are sure the fish is on. Tide charts are available online and at local bait shops. It is also important to know fishing rules, who needs to have a f ish i ng license, which fish can be taken a nd wh ic h mu st b e relea sed based on si ze, numbers, a nd seasons. I f yo u , yo u r c h i l d r e n , o r g ra ndch i ld ren wa nt to lea r n how to fish at the gazebo, the Fish Whisperer offers lessons. I can also provide tackle, rods and reels. Contact me for more information at n f p c o n s u lt i n g r e s ou r c e s@ gmail.com.
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Karen Haddad
Our family owned and family friendly restaurant and authentic Italian Bakery serves a combination of traditional American breakfast and lunch as well as some Italian favorites. Tues - Sat : 7:30am - 2:30pm | Sunday 9am-3pm | Closed Monday
6600 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota
Professional Dog Groomer 6545 Superior Avenue Sarasota, FL 34231 941-400-2562
“Experience you can trust.”
Dog Baths • Flea Removal Nail Trims • Haircuts
Complimentary shuttle service to and from anywhere on Siesta Key. 7 days a week from 10 AM to 11 PM. (driver tips only)
BestWesternSiestaKey.com 941.924.4900 Still Family Owned and Operated Since 2007 AAA-3 Diamond Property
HOURS: Sunday - Thursday 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM Friday & Saturday 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM Happy Hour 3:00 PM - 6:00 PM
• 114 Guest Rooms • One and Two Bedroom Suites Now Available • Complimentary breakfast included with every stay • Free Shuttle Service to and from Siesta Key every day. • Microwave/Fridge in every guestroom *Amenities and services may be adjusted due to COVID-19, please contact the hotel or visit our website for details
Open to the public Live music Thursday thru Sunday starting at 4:00 PM (check the schedule on Facebook or call 941-924-4900) *Use of the pool for Registered Guests Only
www.islandvp.com
941.312.0665
AUGUST 2022 27th State Media, LLC
New Siesta Key Incorporation has Higher Mill Rate New to the delegation, thanks to the new maps, is state Rep. Michael Grant, who represents part of the county’s southern portion. A recent meeting with Grant, Hensey said, resulted in Grant asking many questions but voicing no opposition. “He was satisfied with our answers,” Hensey said. While Grant didn’t promise a vote of approval, “We believe we’ll get it,” Hensey said. That leaves state Rep. Fiona McFarland, who directly represents Siesta Key and last year agreed to sponsor the bill. State Sen. Joe Gruters also represents a yes vote, and Hensey called his ongoing support as unwavering. “He has always championed Siesta Key,” he said of the state senator. While a successful 3-1 outcome seems likely, Hensey feels, and a 4-0 vote possible, one wild card is the fact that both Gruters and McFarland face opposition in the upcoming elections. “It’s important if Gruters and McFarland lose their seats,” Hensey said of the urgency of convincing Buchanan and Grant. For Gruters, he’ll know his fate in an Aug. 23 universal primary (where all registered voters can vote, regardless of party affiliation) with fellow Republican Michael Johnson, who lives near Orlando. If Johnson were to win, he’d have to move to Sarasota County. No Democratic candidate is on the ticket, so there is no November election. McFarland, a Republican, has no primary in August but faces Democrat Derek Reich in the November general election. The earliest the delegation would vote on incorporation would be December, so those two outcomes could be critical, Hensey said.
Another promising scenario on the horizon, Hensey said, is that new lobbyist David Ramba will be on board. The Tallahassee-based lawyer has a strong history at the capitol building and will have plenty of time to work with state Rep. Paul Renner, who will take over the role of House speaker in 2023. He replaces state Rep. Chris Sprowls, whose hardline stance on no new taxes would have likely hindered incorporation at the previous legislative session and possibly influenced, even if indirectly, the delegation votes by Robinson and Gregory, Hensey has said he believes. Both Robinson and Gregory said at a December town hall meeting on Siesta Key that the climate in Tallahassee was not conducive for an incorporation request.
Looking ahead
Regarding any thoughts of annexation by the city of Sarasota, Hensey confirmed it was a dead issue. Save Siesta Key and other local civic groups attended a February meeting with Sarasota Mayor Erik Arroyo to hear his pitch, but the high mill rate at roughly 3.2, or possibly a point lower if Siesta Key joined the city thanks to an influx of property values, was still too high for consideration. The city’s ongoing surge of high-rise development was another turnoff. “We didn’t like what we saw,” Hensey said. Speaking of the city, the new feasibility study will once again not include provisions for the several hundred residents who live in Siesta Key’s Bay Island neighborhood near the north bridge, which is already part of Sarasota. It was a sticking point for Robinson during the delegation vote. Bringing them on board after incorporation would be a possibility, if so desired by those residents, board members said.
Hensey also said Save Siesta Key is still hoping to get a local non-binding straw poll on the November ballot, which Gregory had suggested, to gauge interest. It would, however, require a vote of approval by the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners – the very entity that the incorporation group opposes, springing it into action last year with an effort to break away from being governed by the county in what it considers a reckless and indifferent manner. “Our lobbyist thinks he can get that done,” Hensey said of swaying the county to allow for the straw vote. Viewers asked many questions about the two large hotels on Siesta Key that the county has approved, with two more in the application phase, and Hensey acknowledged there was little his group could do. However, two lawsuits filed by local residents have those hotels in limbo. Trial dates are set for next spring. Hensey speculated that if a successful referendum vote were to occur in November of 2023, with incorporation to follow on Dec. 31 of that year and a local election of five council members to follow in March of 2024, the possibility of a building moratorium could be explored until the new town could handle its on land-use issues. Before that happens, first must come a favorable delegation vote followed by the same from the House and Senate next spring. Even after all that, the governor must sign off on the bill.
Safer, more appealing, more control Meanwhile, beyond the high-profile conflicts with the hotels the incorporation group emphasized its desire to control its
23
Continued from page 16 overall look and feel on a smaller -- but still important -- front. It feels the county is mostly ignoring this or is being misguided with its decisions. For example, Hensey said architectural standards should be consistent with coastal environments, and beautification should also be an emphasis. “We’re the No. 1 beach in the world. I want to look like the No. 1 beach in the world,” Hensey said. Pedestrian safety was also discussed. “We have seven pedestrian crosswalks in one-fifth of a mile,” Hensey said of the intersection of Midnight Pass and Stickney Point roads, noting the need for more safetyrelated signage. Then there are the illegal short-term rentals that many feel are a plague on the Key. The issue came up as a question. When asked if incorporation could help control that issue, Hensey responded with an emphatic “Absolutely.” L i ke l a st ye a r, t he g r oup i s a l s o recruiting neighborhood ambassadors. About 20 volunteers are networking in 10 condominium communities, and Jackson said she’s hoping to double that number. She also said additional Zoom meetings are likely, seeing as they reach people regardless of their location. Said Hensey, “One of the biggest things we’re fighting is that many residents aren’t here right now.” S t i l l , t h e g r o up’s m e m b e r s k e p t emphasizing their confidence. “We see the horizon much brighter,” Hensey said in comparison to things last year at this time. Added Rodkin, in closing, “Just think of what Siesta Key will look like in five years if we don’t incorporate.”
Your Companion
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24
The Landings Eagle
AUGUST 2022
941.312.0665
Kitchen Ladies Recipe Corner
www.islandvp.com
&
By Dee Ricapito Beverly Augsuten’s Delish Cod Fish Dish
Judy Tara Greene Lamb
We enjoy all kinds of fish here in Florida. This cod fish recipe is really tasty since this white fish is firm and flakes as it deliciously melts in your mouth!
REALTOR ®
941.350.0451
Beverly’s Cod Ingredients:
1-pound thick cut cod 1/2 sleeve buttery round crackers (Ritz), crushed 1/2 lemon, juiced 1/4 c dry white wine 1 Tbsp. Chopped fresh parsley 1 Tbsp chopped green onions 1 lemon, cut into wedges 4 Tbsp butter
Your Landings
Resident Real Estate Team
Directions:
Preheat oven to 400F. degrees Place 2 Tbsp. butter in a microwave safe bowl; melt in microwave. Stir buttery round crackers into melted butter. (I crushed the crackers in a zip-lock bag and then added the butter to the crackers) Place remaining 2 Tbsp. butter in an 11x7 baking dish. Melt in preheated oven, 1-3 minutes. Remove dish from oven. Coat both sides of fish in the melted butter in the baking dish. Bake cod in the preheated oven for 10 minutes. Remove from oven. Top with lemon juice, wine, and cracker mixture. Place back in oven and bake until fish is opaque and flakes early. (Norm, the “Fish Whisperer” will always finish this fish dish).
How Bad Inflation Is!
941.266.4873
Now is the best time to sell your home in The Landings. Call Judy and Tara today.
The Landings multi-million-dollar producing team, Judy Greene and Tara Lamb. OUR FEATURED LANDINGS LISTINGS SALE PENDING
4852 Peregrine Point Circle
5408 Eagles Point Circle, #202
3 BR | 2 BA | 2,250 SF Representing the buyers | Offered at $1,200,000
Compiled by: Saul Lapedus & Dee Ricapito
REALTOR ®
2 BR | 2 BA | 1,768 SF MLS# A4540028 | Offered at $525,000
A Definition of inflation: Price increases over time and decreases in buying power. What do you mean by inflation? It’s being broke with lots of money in your pocket. CEO’s are now playing miniature golf
Please call your Landing’s Real Estate Team – JUDY and TARA – to inquire about properties for sale in The Landings! Address
Price
My neighbor got a pre-declined credit card in the mail 4852 Peregrine Pt Cir N
ExxonMobil laid off 25 Congressmen
BR
BA
HB
3
2
0
HOMES PENDING 1,200,000
HOMES SOLD
I saw a Mormon with only one wife.
4684 Pine Harrier Drive
950,000
4
3
0
McDonald’s is selling the 1/4 ouncer, no cheese.
1649 Pine Harrier Circle
1,180,000
4
3
0
A truckload of Americans were caught sneaking into Mexico.
4773 Pine Harrier Drive
1,186,220
3
3
0
1684 Peregrine Pt Drive
2,280,000
5
5
1
2
2
0
A picture is now only worth only 300 words.
CONDOS FOR SALE
I called to get the Blue Book Value of my car. They asked if the gas tank was full or empty.
5408 Eagles Pt Circle #202
Inflation is when you pay $15 for the $10 haircut, you used to get for $5. When you had hair!
5400 Eagles Point Circle #106
515,000
2
2
0
1620 Starling Drive
525,000
3
2
0
5251 Heron Way
525,000
3
2
0
1614 Starling Drive
565,500
3
2
0
5400 Eagles Point Circle #105
575,000
2
2
0
54230 Eagles Point Circle #402
575,000
3
2
0
5420 Eagles Pt Circle #403
589,000
2
2
0
1720 Kestral Park Way S
603,000
3
2
0
1460 Landings Circle
660,000
3
2
1
5408 Eagles Pt Circle #103
675,000
3
2
0
1693 Starling Drive
680,000
3
3
1
5450 Eagles Pt Circle #305
920,000
3
2
0
SUNSET SPECIALS
• Sunset Chicken • Sunset Fish
$
• Sunset Shrimp • Sunset New York Strip
$
(Salmon, Tuna, Cod or Grouper)
19.00 $20.00 22.00 $25.00
All Dinners Include: Oriental Clear Soup, Green Salad, Shrimp Flambé, Stir Fried Vegetables, Japanese Steamed Rice and Japanese Green Tea 5:00pm-6:00pm Daily. Must be seated by 6:00pm. Excluding Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day and New Year’s Eve.
4910 S. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota, FL 34231 941.552.9465 www.DaRuMaRestaurant.com
525,000
CONDOS SOLD
*Chart dataPt is compiled of Sold Properties as recorded in the Stellar MLS 5430 Eagles Circle #103 930,000 3 and county4tax records. 0
5450 Eagles Pt Circle #103
1,400,000
3
3
1
It’s the perfect time to achieve the lifestyle you’ve always wanted and take advantage of your home’s value. Contact us today for a free home valuation and learn our strategy to selling success.
5100 Ocean Boulevard | Sarasota, FL 34242