Why the world comes to Sarasota
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APRIL 2017 | 941.349.0194 | ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC | www.SiestaSand.net | COMPLIMENTARY
BIG PASS SKA files complaint in court to prevent dredging
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BLASE CAFE Over 20 years, a bar where Elvis and Marilyn sat, and acclaim came to Blasé Café
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NEW SKA PRESIDENT
Harold Ashby named the new SKA president
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ORANGE OCTUPUS
Free trolley comes to Siesta Key By Rachel Brown Hackney www.SarasotaNewsLeader.com “It’s a big deal,” was the common refrain as representatives of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, Sarasota County, RideRight Transit and members of the public gathered in front of an openair trolley on the morning of March 20 in Siesta Village. Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) — with the help of County Commissioners Alan Maio and Mark Moran — officially launched the long-awaited service, which will transport riders between Turtle Beach and Siesta Village. Dubbed “Siesta Key Breeze,” because a Sarasota firm owns the rights to “Siesta Trolley,” the free circulator will run as a pilot program for six months, SCAT Director Rocky Burke pointed out. “We want it to be successful.” “It’s only taken seven years,” Wendall Jacobsen, general manager of Beach Bazaar and the last president of the Siesta Key Village Association (SKVA), joked with SNL about the Breeze after the ceremony.
Siesta Key Breeze heads from Canal onto Ocean Blvd. March 20, 2017
Continued on page 38
Davidson Plaza now has paid parking |Crescent Beach Grocery lot added on the southern part of Siesta By Rachel Brown Hackney
THE ORANGE OCTOPUS offers delicious handmade ice cream in 24 luscious flavors
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WHO’S PLAYING
A Sarasota firm has begun managing the Davidson Plaza parking lot, charging drivers $5.00 per hour unless they are dining in one of the restaurants or otherwise using services in the plaza. FL Parking Co. has been contacting private property owners on Siesta Key about managing parking spaces at businesses that close after 5 p.m., Mark Smith of Smith Architects, chair of the Siesta Key Chamber
of Commerce, told about 25 people during the Chamber’s first quarterly meeting. He explained on Feb. 15 that FL Parking Co. was expected to begin the service in Davidson Plaza in Siesta Village that evening. The business plan called for the firm to put in a “pay station,” Smith said. “They say it’s portable; it only weighs about 600 pounds,” he added, eliciting laughter. The firm will have an employee on-site to ensure that people pay,
Gulf view to disappear By Rachel Brown Hackney
Meet TJ Hitt
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SAND CASTLES
Almost exactly five years ago, representatives of the Conservation Foundation of the Gulf Coast based in Osprey - appeared before the Siesta Key Association (SKA) with a proposal for a pocket park on almost an acre of land perched on Big Sarasota Pass. The property for years has offered a vista of the water and Lido Key, as drivers, pedestrians
and bicyclists make their way to and from Siesta Village. Community members had approached the foundation, President Christine Johnson said during that February 2012 meeting, hopeful that, if sufficient financial and philosophical support could be found, the land could be preserved for the public. Continued on page 39
Smith continued. Asher Chappell, co-owner of the firm, also assured SNL that while towing signs are still up, towing is not part of the plan. The FL Parking Co. ambassador on-site makes certain spots can be found for people using the shops and dining in the restaurants in the plaza, Chappell’s business partner, Dan McNutt, explained in a separate interview. That leaves about 10 or 12 extra spaces for others seeking places to leave their
vehicles without fear of towing. McNutt also noted that the firm is eager to work with the free ride services on Siesta, to help patrons who want to leave their vehicles at Davidson’s easily reach destinations in other areas of the island. The parking ambassador is able to provide directions and suggestions to visitors, as well, he said. “We really like to be an overall service.” Continued on page 24
Annual Children’s Easter Party and Egg hunt New Location Turtle Beach The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce proudly presents the Annual Children’s Easter Party and Egg Hunt on Saturday, April 15 from 9:00 AM until Noon. This year the event will be held at a new location - Turtle Beach, located at 8919 Midnight Pass, Siesta Key. Turtle Beach is
approximately 2.3 miles South of Stickney Road on Midnight Pass. Free parking is available on site. New this year! The award winning MOTE Marine Mobile Exhibit will be onsite with a saltwater aquarium, interactive sea life displays and a touch pool. Continued on page 14
Key Solutions Presents BLVD in Virtual Reality |BLVD offers 49 residences with living space ranging in size from 3,500sf to 5400sf
Discover serenity at Dolphin Bay
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Siesta Key resident, Kevin Daves, is once again looking to awe downtown Sarasota with a new project. His newest and most innovative design, BLVD Sarasota, is unlike anything that’s come before. The extraordinary design, amazing amenities and an enviable location have combined to create a new standard of luxury. Situated in the renowned arts and culture district of Sarasota, Florida, the 18-story tower showcases panoramic waterfront and city views from the expansive, private terraces. The elegant and luxurious residences at BLVD have been thoughtfully designed for today’s contemporary lifestyle. Residents of BLVD will appreciate the innovative
design that resulted in some of the most imaginative residences in Sarasota. Just this week, BLVD Sarasota announced that Key Solutions Real Estate will be the official sales broker for the BLVD’s new residential tower at the southeast corner of Boulevard of the Arts and Tamiami Trail (U.S. 41). Key Solutions will act as the main contact for those interested in making the groundbreaking BLVD Sarasota their new home. BLVD is slated to be the area’s only residential development released in the city this year offering this level of luxury, accompanied with single family home sized floorplans. Continued on page 42
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Last chance to solve South Siesta parking concerns Siesta also came up during the commissioners’ board reports during their Feb. 28 meeting. When Chair Paul Caragiulo asked Commissioner Nancy Detert if she had anything to discuss, she hesitated. Laughter rang out from some of her colleagues when she said she was not sure if she should say anything. “Come on!” Caragiulo teased her. Then Detert explained that she recently had taken a tour of Siesta Key “at the behest of someone else to review the lack of parking spaces and the illegal use of parking spaces and the way they handle parking spaces.” When Caragiulo asked which part of the Key she was referring to, she replied, “The south end, oddly enough.” She had asked staff to check on “a few things that probably aren’t kosher, and, hopefully, they’ll get back to us …” “Bravo, Commissioner Detert, for doing that,” Commissioner
Happiness is...Celebrating Milestones Milestones create opportunities to look back on life events and cherish with fondness the places you’ve seen, risks you’ve taken, and special people you’ve met. Siesta Key is a fantastic spot to appreciate all of those and more with the beautiful beaches, friendly people, great experiences and even the special places you can go. From fine dining to desserts, Siesta Key and Sarasota have it all. Here at Abel’s Ice Cream, we know exactly how it feels to reflect on our recent milestones. Within the past eighteen months, we moved half way across country from Kansas City to the most beautiful beach in America, became business owners, and Jerry turned the big 5-0 in March. To top that off, we’ve gotten to share those memories with our incredible customers and enjoy many wonderful stories of others’ vacation experiences here on the Key. To celebrate our birthdays in March and April, we’re featuring our favorite ice cream flavors and handmade chocolates from Sweet Shop USA. Jerry loves the Captains Chocolate ice cream (our house chocolate, it’s smooth, triple rich, and award winning) and his favorite fine chocolate is the Amaretto Truffle (Dark chocolate center with amaretto liqueur flavoring dipped in milk chocolate then in white chocolate). I favor our Stellar Coffee (rich coffee ice cream with delicious fudge and milk dark chocolate coffee cups) and Purple Daze (Black raspberry ice cream with a black raspberry crinkle and dark chocolate black raspberry cups) and my favorite truffle is the Abuelita’s Mexican Hot Chocolate (A rich ganache center of Mexican hot chocolate
941-921-5700
Jerry & Jill, owners of Abel’s Ice Cream Photo Credit: Moments in Time Photography
combined with roasted Hatch green chilies, dipped in dark chocolate then rolled in cinnamon). Stop by the shop and enjoy our favorites and tell us how you’re planning to spring ahead this year. We can’t wait to see you! We’re open Monday-Thursday: Noon9:30 and Friday and Saturday Noon-10pm at 1886 Stickney Point Rd (between new Balance and Stonewood Grill). Also, check out our newly revamped website at www.abelsicecream.com and connect with us online on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
VISIT OUR NEW WEBSITE
1886 Stickney Point Road
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WWW.ABELSICECREAM.COM
County owned abandoned building. Separate tax parcel.
6647 MIDNIGHT PASS RD. 1.84 acres - zoned RMF-1
Sheriff’s Training Building
Alan Maio responded. At some point, Maio indicated, he was hopeful the board members would have an opportunity to talk about a 1.84-acre parcel located at 6647 Midnight Pass Road. When the commissioners held their Feb. 17 budget workshop, the agenda included a discussion about surplus properties the county has under contract and others that it is evaluating for potential sale. Among those parcels, Lin Kurant, manager of the county’s Real Estate Services Division, said is the Midnight Pass Road land, which the county’s Utilities Department owns. She recommended the board not put it up for sale, as it might be needed for future expansion related to utilities. Maio concurred with her recommendation about keeping it off the market, mentioning that at one time it was used by the Siesta Key Utilities Authority (SKUA). However, he told her and his colleagues, “That [property], I would say, may be our last and only opportunity for a parking lot on Siesta” or for a turnaround area for a trolley or bus. In a recap of board requests at the conclusion of the budget workshop, County Administrator Tom Harmer said staff indeed would evaluate the potential use of the property for parking or trolley turnaround use. According to the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office records, the parcel is 80,084 square feet. SKUA officially transferred the property to the county on June 21, 2006, the records
note. SKUA was the entity that originally operated the Siesta Key Wastewater Treatment Plant. In 2016, Property Appraiser Office’s staff valued the land at $1,729,800. That office’s records show that two structures are on the site, both dating to 1974. One has a total of 2,269 square feet; the other, 10,000 square feet. David A. Cash, the county’s Water/Wastewater Division manager, told Siesta Sand that the larger building on the property is a water storage tank that is not in use. He added that “there are still active water transmission lines running through this parcel.” On Feb. 28, Maio reiterated his Feb. 17 remark: “I would ask we just keep that in mind, if appropriate.” Earlier that day, the board approved a contract to initiate a free open-air trolley service on Siesta, which will run from the Beach Club in Siesta Village to Turtle Beach. The six-month pilot program is scheduled to start on March 20. Because Kurant noted on Feb. 17 that the Midnight Pass Road parcel is used by the Sheriff’s Office, SNL contacted Kaitlyn Perez, the office’s community affairs director, to ask about the site. She explained in a March 3 email that the Training Section utilizes the smaller structure on the parcel, but that group eventually may relocate to the Sheriff’s Office’s South County facility. The Sheriff’s Office leases the property from the Utilities Department, Cash noted.
6208 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #205
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JudyAndTara.michaelsaunders.com 5100 Ocean Boulevard | Sarasota, FL 34242 | 941.349.3444 michaelsaunders.com 5100 Ocean Boulevard | Sarasota, FL 34242 | 941.349.3444 michaelsaunders.com
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Culinary Celebration
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By Roger Drouin
|Over 20 years, a bar where Elvis and Marilyn sat, and acclaim came to Blasé Café When Cynthia Breslin opened Blasé Café twenty years ago, she had only one indoor table and one chef. Over the years, the restaurant has expanded several times, adding a vintage martini bar from a historic hotel and now has five total chefs. The bar, brought to Blasé about 12 years ago, is the original from the historic Don CeSar Hotel in St Pete Beach. “Elvis and Marilyn Monroe sat there,” Breslin said. Over two decades, Blasé, located at 5263 Ocean Blvd. in the Village, has also added a loyal following among local residents and seasonal visitors, as well as acclaim for its martinis and food menu. “There is nothing blasé about Siesta Key’s Blasé Café and Martini Bar,” wrote a reviewer in a 2013 post on the Sarasota Foodies website. Two years ago, Breslin opened Pi 3.14, offering pizza and craft beer, in the space next to Blasé. Then about a year ago, the chef and restaurateur partnered with Kevin Skiest, a Siesta resident and owner of Flip Flop Cottages, 8254 Midnight Pass Road. And the business partners are working to expand entertainment offerings at both Blasé and Pi. They brought back Sunday brunch and just started hosting Drag Queen Bingo with Lindsay Carleton Cline every other Monday at the café. “It’s a blast,” Breslin said of the bingo events. In addition, they are hosting karaoke at Pi every Wednesday. “Twenty years is a great success,” Skiest told Siesta Sand. “She has had some rough times as every business owner has, and she is still here and has an interesting restaurant and great food.” The restaurant has become known for its hit-the-spot food and intimate, fun atmosphere. Many
Blasé Café and Pi 3.14 Restaurant owners Cynthia Breslin and Kevin Skiest of the customers have become regulars, and Breslin calls the staff her extended family. Breslin’s love affair with serving great food begins with her own family. “My mom and grandmother were fabulous cooks,” Breslin said. The kitchen for her was always a “happy place,” and the matriarchs of her family were always cooking up southern style meals with love. Her mom was thrilled when she opened Blasé because she knew it was what Breslin always wanted to do. “Mom spent a lot of time here, and she would help me cook,” Breslin recalled. Breslin’s other passion, for art, is showcased throughout Blasé. She is a former student of Ringling College of Art and Design, and many of the paintings in Blasé are her own. Currently, the café is showcasing other works by David Stahl and Deborah Toger.
A work-in-progress
Although Breslin says at times she never thought she would get past the first year of businesses, she has come to love the regular customers and the energy of the
restaurant staff. “I just adore them, they are my extended family,” Breslin said. Breslin said the partnership with Skiest has allowed the businesses to operate smoothly. Breslin, who has a bad back, said she just “couldn’t do it all myself anymore, and he helped me when I needed it the most.” Skiest, the owner of Flip Flop Cottages, has been a constant presence at the café, and has been spearheading the effort to bring new entertainment offerings. “We are going to push the envelope to bring new and exciting things out from time to time,” said Skiest, who has a business background. In the past, the hardest struggle at Blasé was dealing with an incredible peak season and a slow off season. “We do in one week what we do in an entire month in August,” Breslin said, noting the restaurant runs specials to bring in local residents or tourists who happen to be in town during that time. Over two decades, Blasé continued to expand in phases. As storefronts would become available in the plaza, Breslin would expand the restaurant.
Callie and the Whole Band performing at Blasé Café
“We would go into the next space that became available,” Breslin said, “and then another [space] became available and would go into that.” She continues to see the two restaurants as a work-in-progress—like an evolving piece of art— expanding and improving the businesses whenever she can. And she still cooks at Blasé, though not as frequently as she used to.
Drag Queen Bingo with Lindsay Carleton Cline
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APRIL 2017
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Financial Focus
NOTICE:
Lorraine’s Island Beauty & Barber has moved Effective August 20, 2016, Doris Waywell Smith, owner of Lorraine’s Island Beauty & Barber shop moved to the Village. After 40+ years and thousands of customers, Waywell Smith along with Brian will be working out of Salon Capelli, located at 5057 Ocean Blvd. To make an appointment, please call Doris at 941-346-7206 or email her at Waywellsmithdoris@gmail.com
Don’t worry too much if you haven’t heard, but April is National Stress Awareness Month. Of course, stress can present emotional and physical challenges to all of us, but if you belong to the “sandwich generation” – that is, you may be caring for aging parents while still supporting your own children – you may be facing some financial stress as well. What can you do to relieve it? For one thing, be aware that you’re certainly not alone. About one in seven middle-aged adults is providing financial support to both an aging parent and a child, according to the Pew Research Center. Still, knowing that you have plenty of company won’t provide you with solutions for your own situation. So consider the following: • Suggest “downsizing.” Are your parents still paying a costly mortgage on a house that’s now too big for them? You might want to encourage them to think about downsizing. They may be emotionally attached to their home, but they might benefit substantially if they moved someplace that’s less
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|How Can the Sandwich Generation” Relieve Financial Stress?
expensive. • Talk to parents about their income sources. Are your parents maximizing their Social Security payments? Are they following a sensible withdrawal strategy for their IRA, 401(k) or other retirement accounts? You may want to recommend that they work with a qualified financial professional. • Discuss all legal arrangements. Be aware of your parents’ estate plans and the status of important legal documents – will, living trust, power of attorney, health care directive, and so on. When the time arises for any of these arrangements to take effect, you don’t want to face any unpleasant – and possibly costly – surprises. • Find out about health care. Try to learn about your parents’ health insurance coverage. And have they done anything to protect themselves from the potentially catastrophic costs of long-term care, such as an extended nursing home stay? You may not be able to do a great deal for them in these areas, but at the least, you may be able to get them to take some
positive action on their own behalf. • Don’t ignore your own retirement savings. Even if you can afford to provide some financial support to your parents, don’t shortchange yourself when it comes to your own retirement savings. You don’t get a “do-over” when it comes to putting away money for retirement, so contribute as much as you can afford to your IRA and your 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. • Prioritize your investment choices. If you would like to help your children go to college, you might want to consider a college savings vehicle. Still, you may need to prioritize your investments. After all, your children will likely have a variety of options – such as loans and scholarships – to help them pay for school, and they may also be able to reduce costs substantially by going to a community college their first two years. But you are basically “up against the clock” when it comes to saving for retirement, so you’ll want to take that into account when allocating your investment dollars. Belonging to the sandwich
generation can certainly produce feelings of anxiety. But by following the above suggestions, you may be able to reduce some of this stress. And by doing so, you can help your parents, your children – and yourself.
Joe St.Onge, ChFC® Financial Advisor Edward Jones Investments 5112 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, FL 34242
(941)-346-0560 phone (941)-320-4030 mobile Joe.StOnge@edwardjones.com This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
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County’s land development and zoning regulations to be updated and combined into single, user-friendly document By Rachel Brown Hackney www.SarasotaNewsLeader.com Months ago, Sarasota County Commissioner Alan Maio began mentioning that it was coming. On Feb. 28, staff won unanimous board approval to make it a reality. Called a Unified Development Code, it will be an extensive update of the county’s land development and zoning regulations, Matt Osterhoudt, director of the county’s Planning and Development Services Department, explained during a presentation. All the material will be gathered into a single document, he added, in an effort to enable a reader “to more easily find significant regulatory information applicable to a property.” “This is extremely important,” Maio pointed out. Referring to Chapter 74 of the County Code — which includes all the land development regulations — and that chapter’s Appendix A, which encompasses the zoning code, Maio added, “These two documents have not been touched in a good 10 years. Worse, for the consultant [who will handle the project], it is
a horrible patch-quilt of hundreds, hundreds of amendments.” Maio made the motion to hire Calvin, Giordano & Associates Inc. for $285,000 to undertake the work, which would “commence immediately,” Osterhoudt noted. The firm’s corporate office is in Fort Lauderdale. The timeline calls for the project to be completed in 18 months, Osterhoudt said. “I know you put a lot of time in on this,” Maio told Osterhoudt. “I checked and triple-checked and quadruple-checked” that the emphasis would be on an update, Maio added. It will not be a matter of just re-codifying the regulations or rewriting the language, he pointed out. “It’s an update …” Among the goals of the project, Osterhoudt explained, are to create a document combining the land use regulations and zoning code that is more user-friendly, intuitively organized, easier to read and understand, and “internally consistent across the Sarasota County Code of Ordinances.”
The plan also calls for illustrating the document with “effective graphics” and ensuring it is consistent not only with the county’s Comprehensive Plan but also with federal and state laws. Osterhoudt likened the first step of the project to “a discovery phase,” during which the consulting firm will research all the necessary codes and other material and meet with a variety of groups to develop “an annotated outline of identified issues, a refined outreach plan and a draft of the proposed [Unified Development Code] structural outline,” according to a slide he showed the commissioners. The second phase will call for the consulting firm to move “to the full engagement effort” with community members; that will include surveys, meetings and public workshops. The third and final phase will encompass the formal public hearing process before the Planning Commission and the County Commission, Osterhoudt said.
The timeline he showed the board calls for three preliminary public meetings: • April 6, when the Planning Commission will meet at 6:30 p.m. in the Commission Chambers at the County Administration Center located at 1660 Ringling Blvd. in downtown Sarasota. • April 10, when the Board of Zoning Appeals will hold a session at 6 p.m. at the County Administration Center in Sarasota. • April 19, when the county’s Development Service Advisory Committee will meet at 2:30 p.m. at 1001 Sarasota Center Blvd. The schedule calls for county staff to receive the first draft of the proposed Unified Development Code in December. If all goes as planned, the document will be adopted and published in September 2018, Osterhoudt noted. Staff already has created a web portal on the county’s website, Osterhoudt explained, so members of the public can provide comments and read monthly reports on the progress of the work. The
webpage may be accessed easily by clicking on “Unified Development Code Project” under the Initiatives heading in the lower left-hand corner of the county’s website (www.scgov.net), he added. The portal includes links to the Land Development Regulations chapter of the Sarasota County Code and to the Zoning Regulations appendix. It also features a link to a form for public comments. “We’ll give [those] right to our consultants,” Osterhoudt noted of the forms. “I just think it’s an extremely aggressive timeline,” Commissioner Mike Moran told County Administrator Tom Harmer. Because the board members can direct only the county administrator and county attorney to take action, and not staff, under the terms of the County Charter, Moran asked Harmer to be sure to inform the commissioners if it appears the consultant and staff cannot adhere to the proposed schedule. Continued on page 34
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SIESTA KEY, WE HAVE A PROBLEM THE COUNTY IS ATTEMPTING TO VACATE BEACH ROAD AS A PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY AND MAKE IT THE PRIVATE PROPERTY OF THE ADJACENT LAND OWNERS Maybe you’ve read the “Sarasota County Beach Road Information Sheet” or the guest column Siesta Land Grab? No. by Dennis and Wendy Madden in the September 27, 2016 Sarasota Herald Tribune.
PLEASE READ OUR FULL RESPONSES TO BOTH AT REOPENBEACHROAD.COM
Siesta Land Grab? Yes.
(This is a condensed excerpt from our full response to Siesta Land Grab? No.)
By Mike Cosentino
Folks, while it is certainly complicated to untangle the half-truths in the “Sarasota County Beach Road Information Sheet” and the Maddens’ column, the matter is really quite simple. You cannot equate the value of a public road to the value of an easement over someone else’s private propert property. To claim that there is a public benefit to changing the designation of Beach Road from the former to the latter is downright dishonest. As a public right-of-way we can rebuild our road, add parking spaces and ADA-compliant sidewalks, landscaping, benches,
shoreline protection, etc., etc. All of these things are specifically prohibited in the easement across what would become their private property. This would guarantee that we have no say in the matter whatsoever. Not now. Not ever. We refuse to abandon our vested Public Interest in Beach Road and make it the private property of the Maddens and their neighbors. Period. Once again, I hereby challenge Charlie Bailey, the Maddens and their neighbors, all of their attorneys, the County Attorney and his entire staff, and any or all of our
County Commissioners to an open, public debate on this issue. Anytime. Anywhere. Should anyone out there like further information, please visit www.reopenbeachroad.com, or call me at home: 346-2584. Please help me protect your right to public beach access, and the similar collective rights of the mobility- and vision-impaired citizens of and visitors to our community.
KEEP BEACH ROAD PUBLIC!!!
ReopenBeachRoad.com
Pd. Pol. Adv. Paid for by Reopen Beach Road, Inc. 617 Avenida De Mayo, Sarasota, FL 34242
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Unique rides and extra beach parking One of the biggest complaints heard from visitors to the Key during season is the lack of parking. Whether it’s to the beach, the Village, or other parts of the island, many visitors as well as locals take advantage of the free, tip-only ride services our island paradise has to offer, avoiding the hassle of finding a parking space. In March, SCAT, working with area businesses, introduced the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley. This new trolley service, along with the transportation services that have been around over five years, all offer fun and unique ways to get around the island. The tip-only ride services go a step further and will drive you door-to-door on the Key at your convenience. Some ride services are able to travel over the two main bridges onto the mainland and some offer tours packages. If you reside off island and you’re not the type to get up at the crack of dawn to get a beach parking spot, there’s hope for you. St. Boniface Church offers all-day parking for a donation of $10, and the “Tip Only” ride services can pick you up with your beach chairs, toys and coolers then drop you off at the beach pavilion. You can make arrangements with them to take you back to your vehicle when your sun and fun is done. St. Boniface Church is located at 5615 Midnight Pass Road near the intersection of Beach Road and Midnight Pass Road. Parking is available daily at any time, although on Sundays you will need to wait until after 11:15 a.m. to park. Pick up your parking pass at the office from 9-5, Monday through Friday, or by the mail slot after hours. You can call them at 941-349-5616 with
any other questions. Jonny’s Free Ride serves Siesta Key beach, Siesta Village, and Turtle Beach restaurants and accommodations. They operate from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 a.m. daily, and there is usually a 15 to 20 minute response time based upon traffic. Their fleet consists of both island carts and 6 passenger vans, servicing 8 miles of Siesta Key from Turtle Beach to Siesta Key Village onto the mainland. Their service operates 7-days-a-week, rain or shine, 365-days-a-year. Call 941928-9200. Siesta Key Free Ride is a taxi service serving Siesta Key. They can get you home safely at night from your fun night on the Key in their easy, breezy, open air battery powered electric vehicles. Call 941952-8294. Siesta Key Free Island Shuttle for beach, Village, condos and tours. Operating 10 a.m. until very late. They also offer shuttle bus service for larger groups whether traveling on or off the Key with their 15 passenger shuttle bus. 941-952-8294 Sun Ride Pedicab offers ecofriendly and “green” service. This service specializes in fun and unique point-to-point transportation and historical tours with an emphasis on safety and reliability. They offer an hour-long tour that explores the rich history of America’s #1 Beach in true island style. Segments of the tour not only include the fabulous history and development of the island, but also intertwines legend, environment, demographics, architecture, and fun facts into a highly personalized and interactive activity suited for children and adults of all ages. Call 941-343-3400.
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PAID PARKING
Jonny’s Free Ride
Siesta Key Free Ride
Siesta Key Free Island Shuttle
Sun Ride Pedicab
Come Enjoy Our Live Music!!! MONDAY Sandy Grecco (5-8 PM)
TUESDAY Jazz
WEDNESDAY RPM
(5-8 PM)
(5-9 PM)
THURSDAY Tommy Santelli (5-8 PM)
FRIDAY Andres Collin (5-9 PM)
SATURDAY Larry Williams or Chris Otto (5-9 PM)
SUNDAY Democracy
(Reggae Music)
(4-8 PM)
OPEN EASTER SUNDAY • APRIL 16
ENJOY THE SOUND OF REGGAE WITH DEMOCR ACY 4:00 - 8:00 pm
BOOK YOUR NEXT PARTY IN OUR RENOVATED PRIVATE WATERFRONT ROOM • DATES ARE FILLING UP FAST!
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AT THE BEACH
FRISBEE FRIENDS - Sarasotan’s Brandon Baughman (22), Daria Salih (18), Raven Moore (21), and Shane Yoder (23) on a short break from three popular activities on pristine Siesta Beach. Baughman, Moore and Yoder are all servers at popular Sarasota restaurants and Salih is a USF student studying bio-med.
39TH ANNUAL
Siesta Fiesta Outdoor Art & Craft Festival
April 29th – 30th Sat./Sun. 10am – 5pm
Free Admission Ocean Blvd. in Siesta Key, FL
ArtFestival.com American Craft Endeavors Information: (813) 962-0388
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Slow-churned ice cream made fresh daily equal success for this small island business By Diana Colson
THE ORANGE OCTOPUS offers delicious handmade ice cream in 24 luscious flavors. Located in Captain Curt’s Plaza at 1220 Old Stickney Point Road, it serves ice cream in cups or homemade waffle cones, signature sundaes, milk shakes, and root beer floats. It also has a full espresso bar with cold and hot drinks. This welcoming shop is the perfect place to stop for a cool sweet treat or a caffeine pick-me-up. Moncef and Kim Bennaji are the owners of THE ORANGE OCTOPUS. An upbeat young couple, Moncef is a financial advisor by day, working with GULFCOAST WEATH ADVISORS, an independent firm in downtown Sarasota. Kim holds a Master’s Degree in International Relations. She was thinking of a doctorate before kids and ice cream came into her life. In 2011, an ice cream shop became available from a family member, and the Bennaji’s decided to buy it. Originally, all flavors of ice cream had been bought from a creamery, but the Bennaji’s decided to do something different. They remodeled and expanded the shop, then dove right in to the ice cream world by making a big investment. Says Moncef, “Without ever having made ice cream, we committed ourselves to buying an ice cream machine with a commercial large batch freezer. We called suppliers, and found that the only things offered were flavorings. Well—why not bring actual ingredients to the mix. It was much more expensive of course, but the product was so much better. That decision worked out amazingly in our favor.”
The Bennaji’s create everything possible themselves, including making their own waffle cones and adding their own extra ingredients. The process they use is to slow-churn in a batch freezer that makes small batches, which is done every morning before the store opens. For example, they make their own Key Lime Pie filling, and use that in constructing their Key Lime ice cream. They make their own brownies, adding them to their Brownie flavored ice cream. They even make their own birthday cakes for Birthday Cake ice cream. Says Moncef “Whenever we can be ‘homemade’ we go truly homemade! We have created flavors that are unique to us, for example, our Kentucky Honey Bourbon. We added real Kentucky Bourbon ounce by ounce until we came up with the perfect formula. It has become one of our most popular flavors. The fun part is not being committed to the industry’s pre-made flavors.” Kim spends part of her day operating THE ORANGE OCTOPUS along with several employees. It is a warmhearted group, and they help each other out with managing schedules. There is a happy feeling inside THE ORANGE OCTOPUS, and it is a fragrant, cheerful place. Next time you are near Old Stickney Point Road, stop in and find out for yourself. I recommend the Kentucky Honey Bourbon! THE ORANGE OCTOPUS is located at 1220 Old Stickney Point Road on Siesta Key, open daily from 11 am to 10 pm. Eat in or take out. Phone: 941-346-0202.
Above: Moncef and Kim Bennaji, the owners of THE ORANGE OCTOPUS, with their children Right: THE ORANGE OCTOPUS’ newly remodeled interior
Don’t Waste Your Island Time Crossing Bridges! We are conveniently located just a few steps from Crescent Beach and minutes away from anywhere on the Key.
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941-312-0472 fax: 941-312-9588
www.crescentbeachgrocery.com
1211 Old Stickney Point Rd., Siesta Key, FL 34242 (corner of Stickney Pt. and Midnight Pass Rd.)
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Flavors of India Sarasota - Authentic Indian Cuisine Flavors of India Sarasota is located in a strip mall about ¼ mile south of the Stickney Point Bridge. The outside of this restaurant appears unassuming, but when you enter it is anything but. The interior was remodeled when the new owners took over this location last year and has an amazing ceiling imported from India. You may even think you’re in Indian heaven when you enter and smell the aromas that greet you. That’s because what they serve here is authentic Indian Cuisine. The daily luncheons are modestly priced at $8.99, during the week and the selections are more than you’d normally find in an Indian buffet. On the weekends they offer a Maharaja Buffet for $11.99. Menu selections are also available for lunch. Buffet luncheons are served from 11:30 am – 3 pm. The dinner menu starts at 3 pm and lasts until 10 pm. In addition to the traditional Mango Lassi, Masala tea, and Madras coffee, beer and wine are also available for lunch and dinner. From the many positive reviews, it is evident service and kitchen staff are professionally trained and continuously work to provide a quality service experience. As one customer noted, “Fantastic! Greeted by smiles and enthusiasm in this lovely, cozy Indian restaurant.” As for the food, well, just take a glimpse of some of the many comments posted on Yelp and Trip Advisor. ***Reeeeally great flavors. I don’t eat buffets usually but my friend and I were in a pinch for time so I made a compromise.... I’ve now returned 4 times. This is unlike any buffet I have had Indian or otherwise. It goes on and on: chutneys, salsas, salads, a couple vegetarian and several meat curries, rice and Briyani dishes, breads and desserts, with plenty of fresh Naan brought to the table - perfectly cooked and not greasy. Both times everything was very fresh and good quality, super flavorful! It’s only $10 too - ridiculously good - it’s a must try. ***Went for dinner on a Wednesday night and my group had a paneer dish, a lamb dish
and a vegetarian dish along with Mango Lassi and paneer naan. All were excellent. The service was very good, our server was very friendly and helpful. The rice was particularly tasty, I’m always impressed when a restaurant manages to master something that is so simple. The lamb vindaloo was VERY spicy, which is exactly how I like it. Delicious food, reasonable prices and great service. Highly recommend this place if you’re in the area. ***Just recently discovered via Yelp review. New owners. Food is authentic, fresh, beautifully prepared. They are from Kerala and menu offerings include many North and South Indian favorites. Kerala style shrimp curry was outstanding. Lunch buffet is varied and generous! Wait staff informative, welcoming and kind-hearted!! ***I have dined here once and I have to say the food was outstanding. When I dine out I rarely eat Indian as I never feel that the food taste like home (I am Indian). But my experience at Flavors of India was different. The beef fry was so much like the one u get back home. I tried beef, shrimp, Chole Bature and also a goat curry. Every single dish was delicious! Great staff and friendly service!!! ***The best buffet selection I’ve seen in a long time! The food was delicious. They have a great assortment of food from samosas to goat rogen josh! Everything is worth trying! And the chicken tikka masala is sooo good! Open on Sunday’s and has a very friendly staff. We will be returning again very soon. ***This is an excellent Indian restaurant and I’ve eaten at several throughout the US. Authentic and delicious and great service too! ***I highly recommend this restaurant! My family and I just moved here from Texas and we love Indian food so we decided to go there. We started with some samosas and as soon as we opened them steam came out; you can tell that they were just made and they tasted delicious! I split the butter chicken with my mom and that was plenty for the both of us (basmati rice included). The sauce was to die for and the chicken was extremely tender to the point where I didn’t need a knife to cut it. My dad got the chicken vindaloo and I’ve
never seen him devour a meal so quickly! He even asked for a second helping of rice. Our waiter was amazing and the atmosphere was relaxing. We have definitely found our hidden gem in paradise! ***7 of us eat dinner at Flavors of India and we all would rate the experience with 5 stars. Every entree was well prepared, with excellent sauces, generous sizes, and good service. It’s been hard to find a 5 star Indian restaurant. While only open 5 months, they have already set a high bar. This place is now a must on all our lists.
“Our customers are our guests, and we treat our guests like god,” say co-owners Lijo Lukose and Sijil Mon Thomas, “ ‘Athithi Devo Bhava’ is our motto.” That pretty much sums up why they have such a loyal following. Flavors of India is located at 7119 S Tamiami Trail, Ste. E, Sarasota, FL 34231. (941) 921-9200. Hours of operation are: Mon, Wed, and Thurs - 11:30 am - 9:30 pm. Fri, Sat, Sun - 11:30 am - 10:00 pm. They are closed on Tuesdays. (Advertorial)
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New SKA President Harold Ashby talks of plans to expand the organization’s membership By Rachel Brown Hackney www.SarasotaNewsLeader.com
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Aquarium Trips Weddings • Any Occasion Group Rides On And Off The Key
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941.952.TAXI (8294)
SiestaKeyFreeRide.com
Holiday Chocolates
More new exciting news from the world of nutritional research: take heart Chocoholics — Chocolate is good for you! Dark Chocolate, which has high chocolate content and low sugar value, has been shown that it can be good for your heart. A study indicates users of that type of chocolate experience a lower percentage of cardiac events. This should be in addition to and not instead of proper diet, exercise, weight control and the medications your physician has indicated you need. But it can help you attain those levels of health you should have. And don’t overdo it — all things in moderation is one of the keys to good health. So, go ahead and enjoy some of that holiday chocolate!
Members welcomed a new president during the 2017 Annual Breakfast Meeting of the Siesta Key Association (SKA). Harold Ashby, who joined the board in early 2016, accepted the gavel from Vice President Catherine Luckner during the March 4 event, which was held at St. Boniface Episcopal Church. “I didn’t expect that,” Ashby told Luckner as he eyed the gavel. “I didn’t even know there was [one],” he added, drawing laughter from the approximately 145 people present. Ashby extended his appreciation to Luckner for encouraging him to take the position and for serving as a mentor to him. “It’s a great honor for me to step into these shoes,” he told the audience. Ashby also recognized Luckner for all the work she has undertaken on behalf of the organization. She joined the board in 2009, she told him. Luckner served as president from 2011 until 2014. Luckner will remain vice president of the SKA, while acting President Bob Stein will just serve as a director next year. Joyce Kouba will continue as secretary, Kouba reported on behalf of the Nominating Committee, and Bob Miller will remain treasurer. The other directors are Dan Lundy, Joe Volpe and Gene Kusekoski, who
Harold Ashby just joined the board last month. The SKA represents all the property owners of Siesta Key, Ashby pointed out. “Most people know us for our activism. We protect Siesta Key’s interests. … But we’re more than that. I’d like to say we make paradise better,” Ashby continued. “Remember that. You will hear it again.” Among his top goals as the incoming president, Ashby pointed out, is expansion of membership. He extended his appreciation to those present that morning and then added, “We need more of you. Members give us influence; they
give us resources.” Earlier this year, a news release the SKA issued about one of its initiatives said its membership numbered about 1,300 households. Explaining on March 4 that he is a former accountant, Ashby told the audience he likes statistics, and he had a few to present. Out of all of Siesta’s property owners, he said, 71% do not live on the Key and only 6% of them are SKA members. The goal is to convince all of them that joining the organization is a good investment, he added. Of all the island’s residents, he continued, 13% are SKA members. “Those numbers are not because we have had a decline in membership,” Ashby said. “They’ve been at that level a long time.” In fact, he pointed out, “as of about a few weeks ago, we passed last year’s membership [total] for the full year [of 2016]. Our growth has been on a nice upswing.” Ashby continued, “We know where they live, and we’re going to hunt ’em down and we are going to convince them that the Siesta Key Association is a good investment. … I predict in two years we are going to have double the membership that we have now.” Continued on the next page
Be good to yourself in 2014 and remember that anything that doesn’t get better in a week or so needs to be checked out.
Palmer Ranch Dental 8800 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34238
941-966-5603
Your Go-To Store on the Island Morton’s Siesta Market is your one-stop shop for easy island living. We offer a large selection of staple groceries, beer and wine, as well as fresh produce, meats and seafood. In keeping with our Morton’s tradition, we also carry a delicious array of prepared foods, perfect for take-out, picnics, parties and more.
Please stop in and say hello! 205 Canal Road, Siesta Key • 941-349-1474 • MortonsMarket.com
Visit our new Siesta Village Liquors just next door!
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If that goal comes to fruition, Ashby added, the SKA will need a bigger place for its annual breakfast meetings, “and we may even have to raise the price of the free breakfast.” The latter comment drew more laughter.
Other pursuits Among other SKA projects going into its next year, Ashby said, the SKA will “be front and center on the Siesta Promenade project.” He pointed out that Benderson Development’s plan for the mixeduse project at the northwest corner of the U.S. 41/Stickney Point Road intersection is going through “the grinder of the CAP process.” The County Commission on Jan. 25 approved the scope of work Benderson Development must pursue — including detailed traffic studies undertaken during the height of tourist season — as the firm pursues approval of a Critical Area Plan (CAP) for Siesta Promenade, as well as a rezoning of the approximately 24 acres. Ashby continued, “Of course,
we will always advocate for the judicious management of the county’s Comprehensive Plan and the Siesta Key Overlay District.” The latter is the special zoning district approved in 1999 for the Key, Luckner noted. The SKA was one of the entities that participated in the process that led to its final adoption, she said. The overlay district — referred to by the acronym “SKOD” — governs density and intensity of development on Siesta, she added. “We’ll push for better traffic management,” Ashby continued, and alternatives to motorized transportation. “We also want to push for better pedestrian safety around the island, particularly in [Siesta] Village,” Ashby said. Yet another major goal, he continued, is to build up the Siesta Key Environmental Defense Fund the SKA established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit in January. Earlier, in her remarks, Luckner credited Ashby with originating the idea for that “forever” fund to enable the SKA to take legal action, if necessary, to protect Siesta Key’s
environment. Luckner pointed out that when the SKA was founded in 1948, language in its charter called for it to put focus on the island’s environment. “I will daresay we are probably one of the largest civic organizations of its kind in the state of Florida,” Luckner added. She referred to the proposal to dredge Big Pass as “a wake-up call.” The Environmental Defense Fund will enable the organization not only to continue to pursue legal challenges of the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s intent to issue a dredging permit to the city and the USACE, she said, but it also will assist with any other efforts to try to prevent potential harm to the Key. “We hope that you will donate if you’re able,” Luckner told the audience: “Twenty-five dollars here; $10 there.” None of it will be spent for any purpose except legal action on behalf of the island’s residents, she stressed. No money will go to marketing the SKA, for example, she pointed out.
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Annual Children’s Easter Party and Egg hunt
New Location Turtle Beach Continued from cover story
Additional activities include: the Easter egg hunt, face painting, games, photo opportunities with the Easter bunny, and the Sheriff’s mounted patrol. Children ages 1 to 6 are invited to register and participate. Approximate time slots for the Egg Hunt are designated by age groups: 10:00 AM (2 years of age and younger); 10:30 AM (3-4 years of age); and 11:00 AM (5-6 years of age). All Easter eggs will contain prizes donated by Siesta Key Chamber Member businesses. Each child who registers will also receive a bag filled with goodies. Children should bring something to carry their collected eggs in. Pre-registration is required for the Easter Egg Hunt and limited to 150 children. There is a $10 fee per child. Registration forms are available at www.siestakeychamber.com or at the Siesta Key Chamber Office, 5114 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, FL 34242. For registration and sponsorship information, contact Paige Diffley, Promotion & Events Coordinator at events@siestakeychamber.com or 941-349-3800.
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Siesta Key Round-Up
By Rachel Brown Hackney and Bob Stein Transition to quarterly Dispelling a rumor Russell Matthes, co-owner of Chamber meetings On Feb. 15, the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce conducted its first quarterly meeting for members, beginning a tradition proposed in the wake of the Chamber’s absorbing the Siesta Key Village Association (SKVA). Last year, after SKVA members voted to approve the Chamber’s taking over their organization, Smith talked of holding the quarterly sessions. No means had been provided in the past for general members of the Chamber to ask questions about anything, he pointed out. That first quarterly meeting was held at St. Boniface Episcopal Church, where the Siesta Key Association has its gatherings. Many of the attendees on Feb. 15 were long-time SKVA leaders. In what might be called the last bit of SKVA business, Smith announced that evening that the SKVA had decided to contribute $10,000 to improve the Siesta Village landscaping. “That will be happening soon,” he said.
the Daiquiri Deck restaurants, has said definitively that the new location on Stickney Point Road will not feature rooftop dining. Based on rumors, Siesta Sand took the opportunity to ask him about that during an interview regarding the new open-air trolley service. Given the height of the building on south Siesta Key, Matthes noted, the views will be great without tables on the roof. By the way, Matthes said the newest Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar should be open by the second or third week of May. The dining area will be above the existing CB’s Outfitters shop on the same site. The restaurant project is a joint venture with the Tush family that owns CB’s and the Daiquiri Deck owners.
Say what? During a Feb. 17 update on major initiatives for the County Commission, Scott Schroyer, director of public utilities for the county, mentioned that the work to transform the Siesta Key Wastewater Treatment Plant into a master pump
station would be completed in March 2018. However, as recently as November 2016, Greg Rouse, the county’s utility asset manager, assured Siesta Key Association (SKA) members that the wastewater treatment plant would be decommissioned at the end of this year. When this reporter posed a question to county spokesmen about Schroyer’s comment, Drew Winchester checked with Schroyer and provided this response: “The construction is on schedule for completion by the end of this year.” The new pump station will be in place then, Schroyer added. “Operational tuning will occur during the first 4-8 weeks of 2018, hence my comment … about a March 2018 date. The facility operating permit expires in mid-June 2018.”
Speaking of the wastewater treatment plant … A Feb. 24 update on the work that will lead to the decommissioning of the plant came from Billie R. Havey, the communications staff member in the county’s Public Works Department. Continued on page 16
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941.349.0194
Sheriff’s Report
APRIL 2017
Feb. 20 –March 20, 2017
There were a total of 23 crimes reported on the Key between 2/20-3/20/17
2/19/17 Fraud 8000 Block Midnight Pass Rd. A man reported that an unknown suspect used his name, Social security number and other personal information in order to open six Sprint cellular phone accounts in his name. He stated the fraudulent activity was discovered prior to the accounts being opened; therefore, no charges were cleared through his accounts. At the time of the report, it was unknown if the attempts were made in person, by phone or over the Internet.
2/21/17 Grand Theft 1000 Block S. View Dr. A woman discovered her Mother’s charm bracelet, valued at $10,000 was missing from her jewelry box. The box was kept in a drawer under the bathroom vanity. The victim knew the bracelet was there before a cleaning service came to clean prior to her leaving for vacation. Upon her return, she was not able to find the bracelet anywhere in the house. The victim had used the cleaning service before and never had any issues with the service. She provided a phone number for the business and said if she were to get the bracelet back, she would not pursue the matter any further.
2/21/17 Grand Theft 4000 Block Mangrove PL. A man reported his kayak stolen from the deck behind his home. The theft occurred sometime between 2/14-2/25. The yellow kayak was valued at $1000. According to the victim, there had been no unusually large amounts of rain or extremely high tides that could have washed the kayak off the deck and set it adrift. Workers working across the canal from the victim’s residence did not see anyone or anything unusual in the area.
2/23/17 Grand Theft 9000 Block Midnight Pass Rd.
A woman terminated from
her job at a south Siesta resort left with the office telephone and keys. The suspect advised she would return the items the next morning but failed to do so. A deputy contacted the woman who explained that she was late due to a doctor’s appointment and would be dropping off the items later that day. The complainant did not wish to pursue the matter any further and signed a waiver of prosecution.
2/26/17 BurglaryVehicle 5300 Block Ocean Blvd. A firearm was stolen from a vehicle parked in front of a village motel. The victim was in town for a craft show and parked his car in front of the motel. When he arrived back home the next day, he discovered his revolver was missing from a bag in his vehicle. He was unsure if he had locked the car while it was parked in front of the motel. The firearm was a 38 caliber 5 shot revolver and contained bullets.
3/4/17 Theft Public Beach Unknown suspect(s) removed three signs from the gate to the maintenance parking area at the public beach. The signs were “No Parking”, “Do Not Enter” and “Private property Sarasota County Government”.
3/12/17 Battery Public Beach An eighteen-year-old man reported his close friend battered him. He advised that earlier in the day the suspect had misunderstood comments and took them as derogatory towards his family. The suspect told the victim, “The next time I see you, I’m going to kick your …” When the two met at the beach, a confrontation occurred. The suspect allegedly punched the victim several times and kicked him in the leg. After the incident, the complainant went home and went to sleep. In the morning after telling his family what happened, they insisted he go to the hospital and call the police. After being advised he had no serious injuries, he decided to sign a waiver of prosecution and drop the case.
3/13/17 Grand Theft Public Beach Moments after realizing she had just left her purse on the yellow lifeguard stand at the public beach, a woman looked back towards the stand to find two males walking away from it. Upon returning, she observed her purse was no longer on the railing. The purse contained her car keys, driver’s license, bankcard, $20 cash and her LG cell phone. The woman attempted to use the location service for her phone with negative results. The area was checked for stolen items and possible suspects, also with negative results.
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Siesta Key Round-Up Both the new water line and the new sewer main have been extended across the Intracoastal Waterway, she wrote. Additionally, the “Horizontal Directional Drilling (HDD) operation along South View Drive has begun. The contractor will be working Monday through Saturday,” she added, 10 hours per day, until that part of the project has been completed. Havey noted that “an alternate through-traffic detour route [was] in place with signage during this construction.” Residents would have access to their driveways, she pointed out.
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Moreover, Harmer continued, “A big section of roadway also has been cleared of some of the sand that had built up there.” Maio, who represents Siesta Key as part of District 4, pointed out that — in response to comments he has heard — he had asked staff why the sidewalk along that part of Beach Road does not go all the way to the intersection of Columbus Boulevard. The reason, he learned, was the existence of the sea grapes and sea oats at the corner, which county staff did not want to disturb from an environmental standpoint. “So there’s a little bit of lack of sidewalk,” Maio said.
Hunt will be held for the first time at Turtle Beach this spring. Traditionally, it was conducted at Beach Access 5, at the end of Ocean Boulevard, Smith pointed out. Chamber staff already has met with representatives of the county’s Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources Department, he continued, to work on the details of the new plan. Along with the egg hunt scheduled for young children, the event regularly includes visits by representatives of the Sheriff’s Office Mounted Patrol and the Sarasota County Fire Department, Smith said. “Usually, we have about 200 families that show up.” The Chamber also put out a call for volunteers to assist with the Easter Egg Hunt, which will begin at 9 a.m. and end at noon on Saturday, April 15. A meeting of all volunteers was planned prior to the hunt, the form said. For more details, the notice advised interested persons to contact Helene Hyland at 685-2274 or email her at helenehyland@ comcast.net.
No. 1 again No extra footpath from North Beach Road During the Feb. 15 County Commission meeting, County Administrator Tom Harmer took a few minutes during the board reports for what might be characterized as a “show and tell” segment. He presented the commissioners photos of the bollards that the private property owners have installed on either end of the 357foot segment of North Beach Road the board agreed to vacate — at the owners’ request — in a May 2016 vote. Those bollards and ropes were put up in late January, Harmer noted, with county staff having erected new signage in late December 2016 to make the public aware it has access to the road for any use except motorized vehicles. The signs say, “Welcome” and “Public Access,” Harmer pointed out. “Excellent job by our staff,” Commissioner Alan Maio responded.
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As Harmer was wrapping up his remarks, Chair Paul Caragiulo explained that he and Harmer had talked about the extra 5-footwide path perpendicular to the Gulf of Mexico from the vacated road segment, which the property owners proffered during the May 11, 2016 public hearing. It was seen as another means of ensuring continued public access to the water. Because of the county’s public beach access near the southern end of the vacated road segment, Harmer explained, and all indications that the public has not hesitated to access the beach, staff believes no need exists for delineating the 5-foot path. “Thank you for that,” Caragiulo told him.
Volunteers sought for Easter Egg Hunt During the Feb. 15 Siesta Chamber’s quarterly meeting, Chair Mark Smith announced that the traditional Easter Egg
TripAdvisor recently honored Siesta Public Beach with its No. 1 ranking for U.S. beaches and the No. 5 spot for beaches around the world, based on what it says are votes by millions of people who use the website to plan their travel. In its note about Siesta, TripAdvisor writes, “Pristine beach that never seems to end. Photographer’s dream. A place in the sun that warrants returning again and again.”
The SKA’s Environmental Defense Fund During the February SKA meeting, Vice President Catherine Luckner and Director Harold Ashby talked about the new Siesta Key Environmental Defense Fund (SKEDF), which the organization established to assist with its legal fees to fight the dredging of Big Pass. The SKA directors have stressed that the fund will be permanent, to allow the organization to pursue remedies in situations when the Continued on the next page
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On March 12 Solórzano’s Pizzeria on Siesta Key celebrated their 10th Anniversary operating on the island. Phil Solorzano would like to thank everyone that has helped make this happen. Phil sits back with family and friends taking a break from the Spring Break frenzy. Solórzano’s was voted the Top Rated Late Night Pizzeria by Trip Advisor 2016. The pizzeria is located at 215 Avenida Madera, Siesta Key Village. Continued from the previous page
environment on the barrier island is threatened. Over the years, Luckner said, the SKA has been fortunate that people have been donating “$20 here and $30 there” in the event money was needed for legal fees, “and that’s what we’re drawing on right now.” By the end of that week, Ashby told the audience, the nonprofit planned to have a button active on its website to enable people to contribute to the SKEDF. After that was in place, he said, the SKA was going to send a letter to everyone with a Siesta Key zip code, telling residents and property owners about the SKA’s efforts on their behalf to preserve the pass — and to try to raise more money. Checks made out to the SKEDF also are welcome, Ashby continued. They may be mailed to SKEDF, PO Box 35200, Sarasota, FL, 34242. All contributions are tax-deductible, he explained. The SKA sent out an email blast earlier to its members, informing them about the establishment of the SKEDF, Ashby noted. Audience member Mark Hennessy then asked about cooperation between the SKA and Save Our Siesta Sand 2 (SOSS2) in the legal matters. Because SOSS2 also is raising donations for its legal expenses, Hennessy continued, “Would an even tighter working relationship help?” Luckner replied that the organizations have agreed to share expert testimony, as needed. “Why pay for it twice,” she added.
Update on the potential hotel project A proposed Comprehensive Plan amendment that would allow hotels to be built on parcels zoned Commercial General on Siesta Key has not been submitted yet to Sarasota County planning staff, county spokesman Drew Winchester told SNL in March. “The applicants did receive [County Commission] authorization to file a Comprehensive Plan Amendment prior to the open annual 2017 Comprehensive Plan Amendment cycle,” which traditionally is in May, Winchester added in a March 6 email. He was responding to a question. However, he pointed out, “The timing of the actual filing … is up to the applicant.” Since word began spreading in early December about the proposal for the amendment, a number of residents on Siesta Key — especially those who live near Commercial General property on Old Stickney Point Road — have protested the idea of a hotel on the island. After checking with Winchester, this reporter contacted Charles D. Bailey III of the Williams Parker law firm in Sarasota, who has been working as the agent for the applicant, Siesta Acquisitions LLC. (The manager of that entity is Dr. Gary Kompothecras, a chiropractor who lives on Siesta Key; he is best known for his “1-800-Ask-Gary” advertisements.) Bailey wrote the following response in a March 7 email:
“We really don’t have anything further to share at this point. In response to some feedback we received from some Siesta Key stakeholders during and following our neighborhood workshop, we are working to flesh out some of the details of a proposed hotel and seek to refine and clarify the Comprehensive Plan Amendment. We feel doing so will greatly help the discussion. We hope to recommence that discussion in the next few weeks.” The neighborhood workshop was held on Dec. 7, 2016 at St. Boniface Episcopal Church on Siesta Key. As Bailey and Robert “Bo” Medred of Genesis Planning & Development pointed out at that time, the proposed amendment would change the county’s Future Land Use Policy 2.9.1 to allow redevelopment of Commercial General parcels on any of the barrier islands to provide transient accommodations.
Taking her argument to a different group “Persistent” is perhaps the best adjective to describe Rhana Bazzini, the Siesta resident who has been among the most ardent advocates of making the Siesta Promenade site a park. On March 6, she took her fight to the City Commission. Pointing out that she is a county, not a city, resident, Bazzini nonetheless noted that the city and county have mutual interests. Continued on page 33
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Groin construction for Lido Renourishment Project would be prohibited during sea turtle nesting season, U.S. Fish and Wildlife says
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With the focus having been put on legal challenges over the past couple of months, a Biological Opinion the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) issued on the plans for the Lido Renourishment Project figuratively “flew under the radar.” Yet, that opinion — issued on Dec. 29, 2016 — will have substantial bearing on the timing of part of the joint initiative of the City of Sarasota and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), if it is allowed to proceed. Because of concerns of the effects on sea turtles of the construction of the two proposed groins on Lido Beach, the USFWS has directed, “No construction is authorized during the main part of the sea turtle nesting season (May 1 through October 31).” However, work can take
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place during both daylight and nighttime hours from Nov. 11 through April 30, the opinion says. “If the [USACE or the City of Sarasota] chooses to begin construction early (November 1), construction will only be authorized during daylight hours up [to] and through November 11, to avoid encountering nesting females and emerging hatchling sea turtles,” the document continues. In response to a question about those stipulations, Amanda Parker, a spokeswoman for the USACE at its Jacksonville District Office, wrote, “USACE will account for this in the project schedule.” Moreover, if at any time the groins begin “to disintegrate, all debris and structural material must be removed from the nesting beach area and deposited off site immediately upon coordination with the [USFWS],” the document adds. Additionally, the USACE or the City of Sarasota will have to “submit a Groin Maintenance Plan to describe the activities that will be conducted for the life of the Project to address any obstruction by the groins on the natural sand transfer updrift and downdrift of the nesting beach,” the document notes, and the plan “must also include physical and biological criteria to determine if the groins are effective as proposed.” The document states, “The groins must be removed if it is determined [they are not] effective and/or causing a significant adverse impact to the beach and dune system as outlined in the Groin Maintenance Plan.” In her comments to SNL, USACE spokeswoman Parker wrote, “The groin maintenance plan required by the USFWS [Biological Opinion] is similar to the monitoring and adaptive management strategies that we proposed as part of our coordination with the [Florida Department of Environmental Protection]. We intend to conduct
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extensive monitoring of the project to ensure that it is performing as expected, and we will make appropriate adjustments as required (including to the groins) to ensure that it continues to be an effective project through its 50-year lifespan.” In September 2013, when thenProject Manager Milan Mora of the USACE unveiled the plans for the Lido Renourishment Project, he proposed three groins be built on South Lido Key in an effort to keep the new sand in place between subsequent renourishments over the 50-year life of the initiative. (The Florida Department of Environmental Protection permit would be good for only 15 years, the state agency has reported in documents.) However, when the USACE and the city submitted their permit application to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) in March 2015, the plan had reduced the number of groins to two. The Biological Opinion points out that one groin would be 170 feet long; the other, 345 feet. They collectively would encompass 0.44 acres. Both would be 9 feet wide. Most of the construction “will be conducted primarily from the uplands,” the opinion notes. However, “some in-water work performed from a barge may be necessary due to water depths at the end of the proposed groins,” the document continues. “Some heavy equipment and boulders will be mobilized through construction access corridors,” it adds. The sand placement is expected to take 100 days, the opinion notes, while the groin construction is anticipated to take 230 days to complete. “Some construction would likely overlap; therefore, it is expected that the entire Project will be completed in approximately 260 days.” The Biological Opinion also says the proposed placement of new sand on about 1.6 miles of
South Lido Beach, as well as the groin construction, “is likely to adversely affect” two threatened bird species: the piping plover and the red knot, though negative impacts on the endangered West Indian manatee are not expected. Still, the USFWS indicates it believes the project ultimately will “have an overall beneficial effect on the red knot by maintaining suitable habitat” along the renourished area of the beach. Additionally, the USFWS concludes that the presence of the groins, as proposed, “is not likely to jeopardize the continued existence of the loggerhead, green, leatherback, hawksbill, or Kemp’s ridley sea turtles.” The opinion does point to research released in 2008 that says the dredging of sand bars and shoals “can cause or worsen localized erosion by altering depth contours and changing wave refraction, potentially degrading other nearby red knot habitats indirectly because inlet dynamics exert a strong influence on the adjacent shorelines.” A study conducted of the barrier islands of Virginia and North Carolina — whose findings were reported in 1996 — found inlet influences extending 3.4 miles to 8.1 miles “and that inlets dominate shoreline changes for up to 2.7 miles,” the opinion notes. Yet other research, dating to 2000, shows “Changing the location of dominant channels at inlets can create profound alterations to the adjacent shoreline,” the opinion adds. For the time being, the Lido Renourishment Project is on hold because of legal action. On March 9, the Siesta Key Association filed a complaint in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court in Sarasota, arguing that the City of Sarasota has failed to comply with Sarasota County’s Comprehensive Plan and the city’s own Comprehensive Plan in the proposal for replenishing sand on Lido Key.
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Siesta Key Association files complaint in 12th Judicial Circuit Court to prevent dredging of Big Pass By Rachel Brown Hackney www.SarasotaNewsLeader.com court to do the following: • Issue an injunction to prevent the Lido Renourishment Project from proceeding until the city complies with the county’s Comprehensive Plan by obtaining the County Commission’s approval of the project. • Issue a final judgment d e cl a r i n g t h a t t h e p r o j e c t , as proposed, will violate the county’s Comprehensive Plan. • Issue a final judgment “declaring that the City is not enforcing and is in violation of its own laws and regulations in the City’s Comprehensive Plan,” as the complaint puts it. • Issue a final judgment declaring that the activities to be carried out by the city and the USACE would violate a provision of Florida Statutes, 163.3194(1)(a) — Florida’s Community Planning Act — which, the complaint says, “requires that all development undertaken by governmental agencies in regard to land covered by a comprehensive plan be consistent with such comprehensive plan as adopted.” Catherine Luckner pointed out on March 9 that the city is the only defendant in the case. More details on that would be forthcoming, she said.
What happened to a ‘Plan B’? “We are concerned for the Lido residents,” Luckner added — a comment she has made many times since the USACE unveiled its proposal for the $19-million renourishment project in September 2013, with Big Pass as the primary sand source. For example, she said, the city has the right to alternate with the Town of Longboat Key in dredging sand from New Pass. Almost exactly a year ago, Luckner noted, City of Sarasota representatives seemed willing to consider a “Plan B,” when
the County Commission held a discussion of the peer review it paid the internationally known firm Atkins to undertake of the Lido Renourishment Project. The SKA has been suggesting other options over the past three-anda-half years, she added. Yet, “it appears no one developed that [Plan B]” for the property owners on Lido,” she said. “We are very sorry that they have not gotten one.” Still, a March 7 email the City of Sarasota’s outside counsel on the case — John R. Herin Jr. of the GrayRobinson firm in Fort Lauderdale — sent to FDEP’s deputy general counsel emphasized the urgency of the renourishment project for Lido: “As you know, Lido Key Beach is recognized by the state as a critically eroded shoreline in desperate need of immediate nourishment and long-term stabilization. Every day of delay in moving forward with this Project puts peoples’ lives and property at risk.” Writing to Francine Ffolkes, Herin also said, “I can tell you without any reservation that the City believes the administrative petitions should be immediately forwarded to the Department of Administrative Hearings independent, and irrespective, of the threatened circuit court litigation. In fact, the City requests that the Department do so without any further delay.” In January, the SKA and Save Our Siesta Sand 2 filed administrative challenges to FDEP’s Dec. 22, 2016 Notice of Intent to issue the permit to the city and the USACE for the Lido project. Those challenges were on hold, Luckner has explained to SKA members, while the SKA’s attorney negotiated with FDEP staff about the potential court complaint. Herin added in his email, “The City is ready to contemporaneously address the administrative petitions and any circuit court action that may be initiated challenging the proposed JCP [Joint Coastal
Permit]. Any delay in either proceeding is inimical to the City’s interest, which is the soonest practicable nourishment of Lido Key Beach in accordance with the proposed JCP.” In the meantime, City Manager Tom Barwin has reported to the City Commission that staff members are exploring what he characterized as “stopgap measures in anticipation of storms.” Among them, he said, City Engineer Alex DavisShaw has been talking with representatives of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to determine whether the city qualifies for the fast-tracking of a beach renourishment project — using federal funding — as a response to damage from thenTropical Storm Hermine when it passed by the area in late August.
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The Siesta Key Association (SKA) filed a complaint in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court on March 9 in an effort to stop the dredging of Big Sarasota Pass to renourish South Lido Key Beach. The action came 50 days after the nonprofit notified the City of Sarasota, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) that it would take that step if the parties could not come to a resolution of the SKA’s allegations that the city is not adhering to the county’s Comprehensive Plan or the city’s Comprehensive Plan in the proposal to remove about 1.2 million cubic yards of sand from the pass without first obtaining county approval. The goal of the city/USACE project is to replenish about 1.6 miles of the South Lido Beach, adjacent to the county’s Ted Sperling Park. David Patton, a Siesta Key resident, also is a plaintiff in the SKA’s suit. On Jan. 19, the SKA’s attorney — Kent Safriet of Hopping Green & Sams in Tallahassee — notified the FDEP, the city and the USACE that the SKA was prepared to file the complaint in Circuit Court. The SKA argues that areas of the pass slated for sand removal are within the county’s territory and, therefore, cannot be dredged without the county’s permission. SKA Vice President Catherine Luckner and her husband, Robert — a member of the SKA’s Environmental Committee — showed the County Commission a map on Feb. 7 that they said made it clear that their argument is accurate. Robert Luckner also explained that the county’s Comprehensive Plan prohibits any dredge and fill activities in county waterways that have not already been dredged, citing Environmental Policy 4.6.1. They pointed out that Big Pass is a natural waterway that has not had sand removed from it at any time. The complaint, filed on the afternoon of March 9, asks the
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News Up & Down the Trail Large biomedical center receives initial OK A biomedical center that could include medical research, office buildings, educational facilities, a hotel and conference center, and residential, retail and commercial buildings at State Road 70 and Lakewood Ranch Blvd. has cleared a hurdle. The biomedical center project earned an initial approval vote in a 6-1 Manatee County Commission vote March 2. The developer SchroederManatee Ranch received initial approval for it’s “CORE at Lakewood Ranch,” a proposed biomedical research park that could collaborate with other institutions in the master-planned community. Partners could include Manatee Technical College and the Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine. An acronym for “Collaboration Opportunities for Research and Exploration,” CORE is designed to provide high-paying employment opportunities in the life-sciences sector in an area that otherwise would remain approved for traditional retail, office and residential uses. In a 6-1 vote, the County Commission amended the county’s Comprehensive Plan and land use map for the project within a 300.6acre area off Lakewood Ranch Boulevard. According to previous media coverage, Bradenton Area EDC officials project that the biomedical industry could grow by 10 percent in the region — if the project is built. Jobs in this field pay upwards of $70,000 a year on average. The Comprehensive Plan change isn’t final yet. The proposed amendment and map change will be forwarded to the Florida Department of Economic Opportunity for its consent and come back to the Manatee County Commission for final adoption.
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During the March 14 Sarasota City election, voters chose three candidates who will advance to a May 9 runoff in the race for the City Commission’s two at-large seats, which represent the entire city. Topping the votes were, Jennifer
Ahearn-Koch, attorney Hagen Brody and businessman Martin Hyde, none of whom have previously held elective office, who will all advance to the May runoff. The lone incumbent, Susan Chapman, narrowly missed the cut in the crowded primary election. Chapman placed fourth behind Hyde by 52 votes, just outside the margin to trigger an automatic recount, according to officials with the Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections. Jennifer Ahearn-Koch, a neighborhood leader, former Planning Board member and STOP! co-founder, placed first, earning a vote on 37.8 percent of the ballots cast. Attorney Hagen Brody got a vote on 34.9 percent of ballots. And Businessman Martin Hyde, a political newcomer who went on the offensive against the current commission and administration, narrowly beat out incumbent Commissioner Chapman for the third spot in the runoff. Hyde received 26.1 percent of the vote, while Chapman earned 25.3 percent. In total, 7,186 votes were cast.
New Venice hotel planned A new hotel is not a common occurrence in Venice. But now a California-based developer wants to bring a Sheraton-flagged hotel to two parcels on Tamiami Trail, just south of the Richard’s Foodporium on the island of Venice. If built, it would be the first hotel within the city limits in two decades. The proposed four-story hotel would have 103 rooms and a restaurant but also back up to four homes in a single-family neighborhood. There are still several zoning hurdles to clear, and growing concern among some residents, following a March 2 neighborhood meeting. Some residents are concerned about the height of the project and it’s proximity to singlefamily homes.
New hotel could replace Sandcastle Resort The venerable Helmsley Sandcastle on Lido Key was bought and renamed Sandcastle Resort at Lido Beach in 2014, and now the owners want to redevelop
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By Roger Drouin the six-acre site into a 304-room contemporary hotel. Preliminary plans are underway to redevelop the Sandcastle Resort into a larger and more contemporary waterfront hotel. The plans call for a new 304-room hotel spanning two curved towers that will be nine- and 10-stories tall on the Gulf side site on Ben Franklin Drive. Built in 1953 and expanded in the ‘60s, the resort is one of the oldest beachfront hotels in Southwest Florida. Supporters and local tourism officials were elated to hear that a hotel will be developed on the site – instead of losing a tourism use to condo development. The acreage is zoned for residential units and the hotel is a non-conforming use, so the application for the new project would include a rezone to formally designate the property under “waterfront resort” zoning. City officials reviewed the initial proposal and discussed it at the Development Review Committee March 15 at City Hall. The preapplication is simply a technical review of the project proposal and formal site plans, designs and renderings will follow this summer, Franklin said. The project will require public hearings and input before the city’s Planning Board and City Commission, which the owner hopes to present before the end of the year. The owner and planning representatives are reaching out to the Lido Key Residents Association to discuss the preliminary plans with members of the organization.
Raucous crowd confronts Rep. Buchanan Our local congressman got embroiled in the national debate over the direction of the government when a fiery crowd confronted Congressman Vern Buchanan at a Saturday morning rally. About 1,800 constituents filled the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall for the town hall held by Buchanan on March 18, and the backlash was covered in several media outlets including the Washington Post. Continued on page 22
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Massage Experience, Siesta Key’s Five Steps to Spring Forward to Facial Rejuvenation Luminous Skin It’s springtime! Time to refresh and rejuvenate your face and body. At Massage Experience Siesta Key (MESK) we offer safe and effective ways to pamper and improve your skin’s health and appearance. So what should you do to shed this past winter’s build-up of dead, dull, lack-luster skin cells and generate new healthy, vibrant, and youthful looking skin? Here is what you need to know about the basics and beyond of good skin care. Step 1 – Exfoliation: Exfoliation is the removal of dead epidermal (surface) skin cells. It is a key step to vibrant, glowing skin. These dead skin cells cause congestion of the skin and leave your complexion with a dull, dry and rough texture. MESK has several exfoliation options. For the body, we offer body polishes which incorporate an all-natural enzyme salt scrub and luxurious moisturizer. Our facial exfoliation options include: enzymatic exfoliation, macrodermabrasion, clinical peels, and dermaplaning. Enzymatic exfoliation is a part of every MESK facial. We use all natural fruit based enzymes which are non-invasive for a gentle softening and removal of dead skin cells. Macrodermabrasion is less aggressive and equally as effective as microdermabrasion. It uses a special diamond tip and mild suction to lightly abrade and remove dead skin cells. Macrodermabrasion is mild enough to perform daily and can be combined with enzymatic exfoliation or a clinical peel. Our clinical peel options include Pevonia Spa Clinica MicroRetinol Peel and (newly launched) Glycolic Peel. In addition, the Spa Clinica line is introducing newly formulated peel options in May 2017 that will be offered at Massage Experience Siesta Key. Dermaplaning facials use a custom dermaplaning blade to provide the ultimate exfoliation of your skin, removing surface hair and 3 weeks of dead skin that results in reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles, improvement of cellular turnover, increased absorption of
skin care products, and a smooth luminous skin glow that lasts for weeks. That “peach fuzz” facial hair is removed, allowing flawless makeup application. Best results are seen with a series of monthly dermaplaning sessions. Linda Conti, Paramedical Aesthetician, is currently offering discounted pricing on the purchase of a series of 3 or more dermaplaning services. Step 2 – Products to Nourish, Moisturize and Protect Your Skin: It is important to hydrate and protect your newly exfoliated skin with moisturizers and serums that provide nutrition and balance. Pevonia Botanica products contain all natural, organic ingredients which produce professional results. Their Myoxy-Caviar Timeless Repair line provides decadent nourishment to aging skin. The Lumafirm Lift & Glow products deliver firming contour to your facial features. RS2 skincare is specially formulated for those with rosacea or sensitive skin. And for the body, Pevonia features a luxurious Papaya-Pineapple De-Aging Body Balm. And don’t forget to protect your refreshed, youthful looking skin from the harsh Siesta Key sun with our lightweight, ultra-hydrating YouthRenew 5-in-1 Tinted Daily Defense Cream SPF 30. Step 3 – Non-Invasive Facial Rejuvenation: Among our antiaging advanced aesthetic protocols is our Micro-current “non-surgical facelift” facial which utilizes very low levels of electrical current to lift, tone, and tighten facial muscles. Micro-current has been clinically proven to increase skin’s elastin fibers by 45%, collagen by 10%, and ATP (your body’s building block) by 500%. This is how it “rejuvenates” your face, softening wrinkles and toning facial muscles. The effects are immediate and cumulative. This uplifting therapy is preventative, as well as, corrective. It is a great alternative to surgery, as it is noninvasive, requires no recovery time, has no complications, is far less expensive than plastic surgery, and above all, gives instant results. If you have received facial injections
(such as Botox or Juviderm), this treatment will help maintain your lifting results between injections. The micro-current facial offers the most beneficial results on a cumulative basis with a series of 5 treatments, followed by a monthly maintenance treatment. During the month of April, Connie Lewis, Aesthetician (and owner of Massage Experience Siesta Key) will be offering her microcurrent “non-surgical facelift” at a 15% discount when a series of 5 treatments are purchased. Step 4 –Medical Facial Rejuvenation (Botox, Fillers & More): Yes, Massage Experience Siesta Key is now hosting a monthly Facial Rejuvenation Party featuring Botox and filler injections expertly administered by Jeff Goldstein, PA of the Laser Lounge. Facial rejuvenation consultations by the medical provider are free. In addition, the event will provide complimentary mini facials and chair massage. Our next “Botox, Filler & More” Party will be held Wednesday, April 12, 2017. Join us for light refreshments and springtime rejuvenation! Step 5 – Relaxation of Mind, Body & Spirit: Siesta Key is known for its’ #1 rated beach, island breezes, and relaxing vibe! Enjoy a true “siesta” day with a visit to Massage Experience Siesta Key. Let our talented licensed massage therapists offer therapeutic massage (Swedish, Deep Tissue, Neuromuscular, Reiki, Hot Stone, or Aromatherapy). And for the ultimate experience, add a deluxe facial for a complete day of pampering. Body and skin care services are offered in tandem (duel/same time) appointments to create a magical spa day for friends, family, and couples. Call 941-349-4833 today to book your Massage Experience. We are conveniently located in the Davidson Plaza in the Village and are open 6-days-aweek, year-round and 7-days-aweek in season. Appointments may be made online at www. MassageExperienceSK.com or by calling 941-349-4833. (MA00017596/ MM0006727) (Advertorial)
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MONTHLY MEETING Thursday, April 6 • 4:30 PM
St. Boniface Church, Parish Hall 5615 Midnight Pass Road
Sarasota County Commissioner Mike Moran, Guest Speaker public is always welcome with questions for our guests.
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News Up & Down the Trail The crowd, mostly critic of President Donald Trump, seemed to rally against Buchanan at times, joining together in boos, cheers and chants. Many questions from the audience focused on effort to replace the Affordable Care Act, but they also ranged to issues from gun control to climate change and Social Security. The booing started just after Buchanan appeared and continued to the end of the event. Similar town halls held by Republican elected officials across
the county has drawn outspoken critics of the new president and the direction of the government.
Sarasota dock improvements Improvements to the City of Sarasota’s boat docks at the 10th Street boat ramp, located in Centennial Park, have begun. During the project, the aging decking on the docks will be replaced with pressure-treated
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composite lumber, which can withstand continual exposure to surf, rain, sun and wind, city officials announced last month. The project is expected to be completed by mid-May. The area will remain open to the public throughout the duration of the project except for two days and nights in early to mid-May, a city news release stated. That closure will allow the resurfacing of the parking lot, the release adds. “Prior to the temporary closure, signs will be posted in the area to notify the public,” the release notes. The release also said that, as part of the project, crews would begin dredging the boat basin. Over the years, the basin has filled with silt, the release notes, so “it needs to be dredged for the health of Sarasota Bay and to maintain marine navigation.”
MURT improvements underway A wider multi-use pathway is coming to the bayfront area near Coon Key and Bird Key. Construction work started on what Sarasota city officials called a much anticipated improvement project connecting Marina Jack to Coon Key and adding pedestrian safety to the area. The Multi-Use Recreational Trail (MURT) will be extended on the south side of John Ringling Boulevard from Bird Key Drive to the east side of the Coon Key
Bridge, in a project that started March 6. With a width of 10 feet, the extension will be user-friendly and will include lighting and landscaping. “This connectivity will enhance pedestrian safety and encourage a healthier lifestyle for those who want to exercise along the Bayfront, over the Ringling Bridge and across Bird Key,” City Manager Tom Barwin wrote in his March 3 newsletter. Simultaneously, the median at Bird Key will be spruced up with enhanced landscaping, irrigation and pavers. Travel lanes will not be closed for either project, Barwin said. Some barriers may be placed in the area to provide a safe work space for the contractors — and that only will be done during nonpeak drive times. The next phase of the MURT — coming soon — will connect Coon Key to St. Armands Circle.
Longboat to search for Public Works director Longboat Key Public Works Director Juan Florensa has been involved in many projects on the island. After serving as public works director since 2001, Town Manager Dave Bullock announced at a March Town Commission meeting that Florensa intends to retire next year. Longboat Key town staff were already set to begin the search for a new public works director. The search is starting this early
because of the skills and expertise the position requires. Florensa oversees a staff of 20 members who are responsible for beach management, utilities, town facilities, solid waste, parks and streets.
No major damage after tornado warning A stormy night last month resulted in some downed power lines in the Osprey area, and minor damage, including a home’s damaged pool area on Manasota Key, but there was no major building damage reported, according to Sarasota County officials. Sarasota County said there were no reports of major building damage after a tornado warning was issued for a large portion of the county March 12. But the area did receive some rain, with the Gulf Gate area receiving several inches of rain the evening of March 12. The warning, issued at 8:08 p.m., stated a thunderstorm capable of producing a tornado was located 18 miles southwest of Sarasota. The warning said the storm was headed east and will be near Gulf Gate around 8:35 p.m., and the tornado warning for the county expired at 9 p.m., the National Weather Service in Ruskin reported. Radar indicated a possible tornado coming ashore in South County.
Blooming this month Crinum Lily
Crinum lilies are large, producing an array of showy flowers in summer. They love heat and moisture. The crinum plant is often referred to as the southern swamp lily. Regaining popularity in the landscape, crinum is usually started from large bulbs and the large plants can be found in some nurseries. The crinum plant can also be grown from the large seeds it produces or by offsets called pups. The crinum plant reaches 3 to 5 feet. Foliage is spirally arranged, coarse and open. It is often used for a short, growing hedge where blooms and fragrance can be enjoyed. Locate crinum lilies in groups, spacing plants 4 to 6 feet apart. The foliage may appear unkempt so the crinum plant can be trimmed, removing bottom leaves for a cleaner appearance. They produce snow white, fragrant flowers, with three long, curved petals in clusters at the top. Blooms in spring and summer. Subbmitted by Sarasota Garden Club www.sarasotagardenclub.org
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941.349.0194
APRIL 2017
Island Visitor Publishing, LLC
VILLAGE MAP pgs 24 - 25
ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 46
GULF GATE SHOPS pg 26
CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 27
LOCAL MAPS INSIDE
LIVE MUSIC PAGE 28
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The Publication with “Key” Information | www.SiestaSand.net | 941.349.0194
Siesta Key Drum Circle Before You Leave...
If you have any non-perishable food items that have not been opened, the Siesta Key Chamber, located at 5114 Ocean Blvd, in the Village at the Davidson Plaza along with St. Michael’s Parish, located at 5394 Midnight Pass Road will gladly take these items and pass them on to the less fortunate in the Sarasota area. Chamber hours for items to be dropped off are as follows: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. Saturday: 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. For instructions on after hour drop-offs, please contact the Chamber office at 941-349-3800. St. Michael’s hours for items to be dropped off are as follows: Monday – Thursday: 8 a.m. – Noon and again from 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. Friday: 8 a.m. – Noon.
If you are dropping off items after hours, please leave any items at the front door of the parish office. For any additional questions, please contact the office at 941-349-4174.
Every Sunday is a perfect time to come to the Key to reconnect with Mother Nature and to enjoy some wonderful entertainment. I’m talking about the Siesta Key Drum Circle that takes place each Sunday starting about an hour before sunset and lasting until about 10 p.m. The gathering meets up just south of the main pavilion - just follow your ears and watch for the swelling crowd. Please note the following rules of etiquette that need to be observed at the Drum Circle so that all can enjoy the experience: the inside of the drum circle is
for participants only, not for people standing around. Feel free to enter the circle, take a picture and dance, but always keep moving. Never play someone’s drum without getting clearance from the owner. Always ask before borrowing other people’s property, especially hula hoops. Flash photography and bright video lights are distracting, so photograph during daylight or use a night vision camera. And finally, please do not drink alcohol or smoke inside the circle and respect our beach by placing all trash in the appropriate receptacles. Photo Courtesy of Donnarose Melvin.
Before you leave Sarasota, you must try this one! As seen on the Food Network Guy Fieri’s “Diner’s, Drive-In’s and Dive’s” show. The TurDucKen “One big bird” Boneless chicken stuffed in a boneless duck stuffed in a boneless turkey with a variety of great seasonings. Alpine Steakhouse just off of Siesta Key located between the bridges at 4520 S. Tamiami Trail. 941-922-3797
Lunch Turducken Sandwich $8.95 and Dinner Turducken $18.95 w/mashed potatoes, stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce
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NOTICE: Looking for the Village Barber? For those that have enjoyed the cuts and comradery at The Village Barber over the years, you can still continue to see Scott at his new location. In July 2015 Scott Reich announced moving out of the Village and off the Key. Reich and his stepfather Pete Sparks had been servicing patrons in the Village for the past 20 years. The Siesta Center was sold and the new ownership of the Ocean Blvd building wasn’t quite meeting up to expectations he and Sparks had of the new landlord. Sparks announced his retirement and Reich announced a move to The Shop SRQ at 6625 Gateway Ave. in Gulf Gate. You can reach Scott Reich at 941-3460222. His hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Tues – Fri, and Sat from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. www. SiestaKeyBarbershop.com
941.349.0194
Davidson Plaza now has paid parking When SNL suggested that other potential clients may be watching the service in Davidson Plaza before signing on with the firm, McNutt agreed. “I kind of think that is what is happening. … Presence and performance there will speak to the goals of our company.” While the service will generate revenue for a property owner, he continued, the goal is to open up more areas for parking, so people “can go about their business and enjoy the Key.” And while people may object at first to the prospect of paying to park their vehicles, he pointed out, “we tend to find, over time, people see the value in it.” “We’re happy to be there,” Chappell stated. In fact, he said, when he was in the Village in late February, a county employee approached him to express her delight at the new system. “Nothing’s worse for a visitor than having a car towed,” Smith said. “I’d love to get all the ‘No Parking’ signs
down,” he added, “and see the towing signs go away.” Smith explained to the Chamber members on Feb. 15 that the firm is working from the parking plan he created over a period of months in an effort to expand the number of spaces for visitors and residents in the Village. (Siesta Key Village Association leaders were unable to gain Sarasota County financial support to create the spaces, and the plan ultimately never was implemented. County staff estimated it would cost about $100,000 to create about 90 new spaces in rights of way Smith had targeted. Counting all the possible spaces on private property, Smith’s plan included about 300 spaces.) “So they’re going to contact all those folks [whose offices close at 5 p.m.],” Smith noted during the Chamber meeting, including the owners of Michael Saunders & Co. — which has an Ocean Boulevard real estate office — Siesta Center and the CJ Lofino
S I M P LY R AWSO M E ! St Armands
St Armands 325John JohnRingling RinglingBlvd Blvd 325 Sarasota, Sarasota, FL FL 34236 34236 941-388-3325 941-388-3325
Map B #42
Siesta Key
Island of Venice 5250 Ocean Blvd 300 West Venice Ave Venice, FL Sarasota, FL34285 34242 941-488-0649 941-349-8697
Island of Venice Siesta Key 300 WestOcean VeniceBlvd Ave 5250 Sarasota, 34242 Venice, FLFL34285 941-349-8697 941-488-0649
Delicious Daiquiris, Seafood and So Much More! Find current specials and promotions at DaiquiriDeck.com
Find current specials and promotions at DaiquiriDeck.com
Map C #61
ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Beach Resort ...................... Map-A #38A ANTIQUES Relics on the Key .............................. Map-D #9 ART GALLERY / STUDIO Calle Studios....................................... Map-B #32 The Gallery on Siesta Key.................Map-D #11 ATM / BANKS PNC ATM............................................ Map-C #61 Martin Funding.................................... Map-E #1 Sun Trust Bank & ATM....................... Map-E #4 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blaśe Bistro.........................................Map-A #38 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar...............Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s............................................ Map-B #33 Siesta Key Oyster Bar....................... Map-B #45 The Beach Club...................................Map-D #22 The Cottage......................................... Map-C #58 The Hub-Baja Grill.............................Map-D #59 COFFEE SHOPS Lelu’s Coffee Lounge....................... Map-B #31 The Local Bean.................................. Map-D #62 DRUGSTORE Davidson’s Drugs............................. Map-D #65 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Beach Bazaar’s & Swin Shack.........Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear................................. Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More........ Map-D #64 Everything But Water........................Map-D #12 Foxy Lady Fashions...........................Map-A #40 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions............ Map-B #44 Island Boutique.................................. Map-B #50 Island Cotton Company.................... Map-C #29 Island Style.......................................... Map-C #53 Lotus Boutique...................................Map-D #66 Marley Vibes.........................................Map-D #9 Sea Shanty........................................... Map-C #24 Siesta T’s.............................................. Map-B #30 The Sandal Factory............................ Map-B #46 GAS STATION Circle K Store........................................ Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Beach Bazaar......................................Map-C #28 From God’s Garden.............................Map-D #9 Island Trader....................................... Map-C #51 Sea Pleasures & Treasures.................. Map-C #2 Siesta Key’psakes............................... Map-B #29 Siesta Key Outfitters........................ Map-D #11 Siesta Kids........................................... Map-B #36 HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ................Map-D #10 Siesta Key Fitness............................. Map-B #73 ICE CREAM/TREATS Big Olaf Creamery............................. Map-C #52 Ciao Gelato.......................................... Map-C #50 Made in Rome Gelato........................ Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts........................ Map-C #24 SubZero Ice Cream/Yogurt..............Map-D #16 Sunni Bunni Frozen Yogurt.............. Map-C #53 The Donut Experiment.................... Map-D #16 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs............................... Map-D #65 Internet Cafe.........................................Map-D #9 Lelu Coffee Lounge.......................... Map-B #31 The Local Bean.................................. Map-D #62 JEWELRY Created Gems..................................... Map-C #51 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers.............. Map-D #9
Continued from cover story
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www.siestasand.net
941.349.0194
APRIL 2017
Building, which is on the very north end of the Village. (The Lofino Building is where the Pelican Press offices were located years ago.) He knew a representative of FL Parking also had contacted Crescent Beach Grocery on Old Stickney Point Road, Smith added. Crescent Beach Grocery started the paid parking in their lot effective the third week of March. Visitors can use the lot starting at 9 PM after the store closes for the day. This will help the area with parking. The south area businesses experience the same problem with lack of parking. Crescent Beach Grocery is located at 1211 Old Stickney Point Road. Chappell confirmed that representatives of FL Parking are looking at three or four other locations to provide more public parking. He said he would be able to provide further details in the coming weeks.
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After surveying the situation in the Village firsthand, Chappell stated, he has become familiar with how few spaces exist to meet the demand. The spots in the plaza right now are “a drop in the bucket,” he added. “Every parking space counts.” Smith said in late February that he had not heard any comments from the public about the new system in Davidson Plaza. Some people might object to the fee per hour, he said, but “it just depends on where you’re from.” Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office deputies long have talked of how tourists readily pay $25 parking tickets, because they are so desperate to find places near the Village to leave their vehicles, even if the spaces they use are illegal. Publishers Note: Please see companion article on page 2, Last chance to solve South Siesta parking concerns.
• segway rentals • PaDDleBOarDs • scOOter cars • kayak tOurs/rentals • Bikes • scOOters Map B #34 • Beach gear 5255 Ocean Blvd • Siesta Key Village www.robinhoodrentals.net
941-554-4242
LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club.................... Map-D #70 Gilligan’s............................................ Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wines...............................Map-C #61 Siesta Village Liquors .....................Map-C #26 The Beach Club...................................Map-D #22 MAILING - SHIPPING UPS store.............................................Map-A #41 US Post Office.....................................Map-D #65 MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store........................................ Map-E #6 Morton’s Siesta Market....................Map-C #25 MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage................... Map-B #35 Massage Experience Siesta Key..... Map-D #62 Massage Therapy................................. Map-E #1 Siesta Key Massage Ctr..................... Map-D #9 MEDICAL - DENTAL Siesta Medical Center........................Map-D #63 Siesta Key Physical Therapy.............Map-D #20 Siesta Dental...................................... Map-B #49 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce.....................Map-D #67 Roberti Enterprises............................Map-A #39 Tarot Card Reading & Gifts.............. Map-B #50 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Edward Jones Investments............. Map-D #68 Smith Architects....................................Map-E 74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Ascendia Real Estate..........................Map-D #11 Coldwell Banker Realty.....................Map-D #20 Horizon Realty................................... Map-B #34 Island Homes...................................... Map-C #51 Key Realty............................................ Map-E #5 Michael Saunders Realty................. Map-E #72 Re/Max Alliance Group...................Map-D #60 ReMax Tropical Sands.................... Map-D #67 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate.....Map-A #39 Siesta Key Realty................................ Map-D #9 Waterfront 7 Realty............................ Map-C #56 Waterside Realty................................ Map-C #29 RESTAURANTS / CAFÉS Another Broken Egg.................Map-C #54 & 55 Blasé Bistro.........................................Map-A #38 Bonjour French Cafe.......................... Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano.................................. Map-D #71 Cevi-Chela...........................................Map-D #69 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar...............Map-B #42-43 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar................. Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante............... Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.......... Map-B #33 LeLu’s Coffee Bar.............................. Map-B #31 Lobster Pot..........................................Map-C #23 Napoli’s Italian Restaurant............... Map-C #53 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub.................. Map-E #2 PI Pizza & Craft Beer.........................Map-A#37 Siesta Key Deli....................................Map-A #37 Siesta Key Oyster Bar....................... Map-B #45 Solorzano Bros. Pizzeria................. Map-D #15 Subway Sandwiches.......................... Map-B #30 Sun Garden Café................................Map-D #19 The Cottage......................................... Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill...........................Map-D #59 Village Café....................................... Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY LaPlaya Spa......................................... Map-C #50 Salon Capelli.........................................Map-D #9 Sassy Hair Salon.................................Map-A #40 Siesta Key Nails.................................. Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida........................................... Map-B #32 Robin Hood Rentals......................... Map-B #34 Siesta Village Outfitters..................... Map-C #53
Map D #64
Bringing you quality and comfort for more than 30 years!
Birkenstock & More 5128 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Village
941-346-7425 www.rickscomfortshoes.com
Map D #11
THE LOCAL BEAN • Internet Café • Coffee Shop • Tea Room 5138 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key Village
941-346-8000
WHAT BETTER WAY TO START YOUR DAY IN PARADISE?
Map D #62
Organic and Fair Trade Coffees & Teas Cold Pressed Coffee Organic Smoothies Light Lunch (Salads & Sandwiches) Breakfast Sandwiches, Bagels & Lox Local Pastries Free Snacks
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941.349.0194
DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE
G-31
Eat Where The Locals Eat! Original Word of Mouth 6604 Gateway Ave. Sarasota, FL 34231
941-925-2400
HOURS: Monday - Sunday 8:00AM to 2PM www.originalwordofmouth.com
Sarasota Pavilion is a popular shopping destination for numerous locals and visitors alike. Its prime location is close enough to the island for frequent trips with a nice selection of chain stores set in one convenient location. But what truly lends to the uniqueness of this district is the host of small, locally owned, specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants and neighborhood bars bordering this pavilion. It makes for a fun and rewarding shopping experience. Over 150 businesses make up this district. This section helps highlight what you’ll find within this walkable Gulf Gate shopping Village. Piccolos Italian Market & Deli (G-47) carries a full line of imported cheeses, fresh baked bread daily, homemade sausages, fresh mozzarella, and numerous hard to get items. They now carry Khorasan Wheat which is an ancient and organic grain. Their deli is complete with huge hot and cold sandwiches, salads, fresh homemade lasagna and baked ziti. And, you cannot leave without trying their cannoli filled with their own homemade cannoli cream or the tiramisu or Sfogliatelle from Brooklyn. 1
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GULF GATE Hooters
Sun Trust
Publix
Michaels
D Beall’s Outlet
(BOX STORES AND SO MUCH MORE)
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Mike’s Bud Select Brew $1.50/Pints • BEST Bloody Mary’s in Sarasota • Pool Table-
Bed Bath & Beyond
Books-AMillion
Golden Tee Megatouch
FREE Pool ALL DAY Sunday thru Wednesday
Ross
Dress for Less
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2639 Mall Drive
941-923-9827 Open Daily 9 AM-2:30 AM
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Panera Bread
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PICCOLO
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Italian Market & Deli
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THESHOPSRQINC.
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Flat-Tops, Fades, Tapers, Blowouts and Razor Cuts
“Straight Razor Shaves”
Combined 25+ Years Experience
Hot or Cold
941.626.4894 / 941.536.1656
Tonsorial Artistry
& Vegetarian Sandwiches
by
www.TheShopSRQ.com
Authentic New York Italian Market & Deli We carry a full line of Imported Cheeses, Boars Head Luncheon Meats, Pasta, Olive Oil, Assorted Imported Olives, Khorasan Wheat (ancient & organic grain), and more. GG-46 G-47 Specialty Italian gourmet items without the gourmet price
Come See Our New Location Store Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am - 6pm 6518 Gateway Ave.
941-923-2202
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One mi.from Siesta South Bridge (behind Publix)
Ba Am nk o eri f ca
© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2016
• 12 TV’s with MLB and NFL ticket sports package • All Florida lottery games • Smokers Welcome!
Iberia Bank
G23 G22 G21 G20 G19 G18 G17
Superior Avenue
• 9 AM - 7 PM EVERY DAY
Marshall’s
Mall Mall Drive Drive
G50 G49 G48 G47 G46 G45 G44 G43 G42 G41 G40 G39 G38 G37 G36 G35 G34 G33 G32 G31 G30 G29 G28 G27 G26 G25
Gateway Avenue
Open Daily from 9 AM ‘til 2:30 AM
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Stein Mart
to each specially crafted variety of freshly baked muffins to the signature menu items. This small diner is where the locals come to eat breakfast and lunch. Each staff member works hard to make sure you receive the best service and quality food so you’ll want to return often. Take a look at their mouth-watering menu at www. originalwordofmouth.com. Hours: Mon-Sun.: 8AM-2PM. 6604 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, 34231, 941-925-2400. Pride of the South (S-34) has been awarded Top Barbeque in Sarasota for 2016 by Trip Advisor and Yelp. It has been awarded for the best Southern Hospitality. Pride of the South has a brisket BLT, hands down, one of the best sandwiches you ever tasted. The smoked chicken wings are unbelievable. Backed up with the pulled pork sandwiches, the smoked bologna, the smoked Turkey, the collard greens, fried corn on the cob, fried okra, fried green tomatoes and one of the best mac ‘n cheese you ever tasted. We do catering with no limit to the size of the group. Come in and follow your nose to 6616 Superior Ave, Sarasota, FL 34231. Call (941)926-0099. See you soon.
a great selection of beers, wines and liquors served by a friendly staff AND where you’re allowed to bring your own restaurant or deli food? Right here. Hurricane Mike’s Saloon (M-10) is a little neighborhood bar at 2639 Mall Drive, where everyone knows your name type of establishment and friendly staff. TV’s with the MLB and NFL packages, pool table, and full Florida Lottery games. Happy hour daily from opening to 7pm. Hours: Mon – Sat, 8am – 2:30am and Sun., noon – 2:30am. The Shop SRQ (G-2) offers flat-tops, fades, tapers, blowouts, razor cuts, and straight razor shaves. Owners, Erick and Dawn use a back to basics approach to grooming with a precise attention to personal detail. Their commitment to excellence has provided them with many loyal customers. They welcome the opportunity to earn your trust. Hours: Tues. – Fri. 8:30am – 6pm, Sat., 8:30am – 3pm. Closed on Sundays and Mondays. 6625 Gateway Ave, 941-626-4894. At the original Word of Mouth Restaurant (G-31), every seemingly insignificant detail receives special attention from the warm, inviting decor
Here is where you will find great Italian specialty gourmet items without the gourmet price. Tony’s Chicago Beef Company (S-16) is owned and operated by true Chicagoans. Dedicated to deliver Chicago’s best food - Chicago style Hot Dogs wit’ the works... Dragged through the garden on poppy seed buns with fresh cut fries, Italian Beef Sandwiches anyway you like, dipped or dry, sweet or hot. All served in true Authentic Chicago Style. Sarasota Brewing Co. (G-4) Sarasota’s first micro brew pub always has something new to offer. From over 20 seasonal beers that rotate throughout the year, the Brewing Company always has at least five unique brews online as well as several favorites from around the world. Established in 1989, Their menu has been a winner in the Reader’s Choice Awards of the Sarasota Herald Tribune featuring their mouth watering burgers, Chicago style Pizzas, and Chicago beef sandwiches. With dozens of televisions, it’s a great place to catch a game with friends and family. West End Pub (G-49) Where else can you watch your favorite game with
M-10
All packaged liquor sold until 2 AM
www.siestasand.net
www.PiccoloMarket.com
6625 Gateway Ave.
S-16
Tonsorial Artistry by Erick & Dawn
Open Tues.-Fri. 8:30 AM-6 PM Sat. 8:30 AM - 3 PM Closed Sun. & Mon.
S-34
Catering Available
We Put the South in Your Mouth 6616 Superior Ave. Sarasota
941.926.0099
COUPON
FREE SIDE With the purchase of ANY entreé
941.349.0194
ATM & BANKS Bank of America........................................ A-3 #3 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club........................................... C-3 #13 Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 DELIS / BAKERIES A Taste of Germany................................ C-3#14 Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 Nutritious You........................................ C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery......B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson’s Drugs................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES CB’s Island Outfitters.............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion......................................B-3 #1 Coconuts / Island Colors..........................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14
APRIL 2017
CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX
Key Casual Fashions............................... D-3 #17 Things You Like...................................... C-3 #14 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Capt. Curt’s Souvenirs.............................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Shells & Gifts................. C-3 #14 The Silversmith ...................................... D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry.................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Siesta Key Salon & Spa........................... D-3 #17 The Key Spa & Salon.............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus .......................................B-3 #8 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson’s Drugs................................... C-3 #14 Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 LIQUOR STORES Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 Crescent Club............................................B-3 #13 Siesta Spirits............................................. C-3 #17
Siesta Key Winery and Bootlegger’s Moonshine Company.................................................... A-4 #5 MAILING & SHIPPING Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 US Post Office Sub Station..................... C-3 #14 MARKETS 7-11 Store.................................................. C-3 #16 Big Water Fish Market.......................... C-3 #17 Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 MISCELLANEOUS Moving & Storage....................................B-3 #10 Flowers by Fudgie................................... D-3 #17 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent............................................ C-3 #14 RESTAURANTS / CAFES A Taste of Germany................................ C-3#14
Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill...............A-5 #12 Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7 City Pizza Italian Restaurant................. D-3 #17 Clayton’s Siesta Grille...............................B-3 #9 Toasted Mango Cafe............................... C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 Munchies.................................................. C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 CB’s Island Outfitters.............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta............................................ A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak . ......................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina..................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Sports Rentals............................... A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club...................... A-5 #12
Big Water Fish Market................................C-3 #17
“Home of the Orange Squeeze!”
“A Tropical Department Store“
SHELL & GIFT CITY
Bathing Suits $
Siesta Key’s Most Friendly & Unique Shopping Spot! SOUTHBRIDGE MALL
G
IN FEATUR
Homemade Ice Cream
Map B-3#8
941-346-0202
19.95 Reg. To $49.00
SIESTA KEY
Siesta Key’s Largest Seashell & Coral Selection!
Sundaes l Shakes l Smoothies l Coffees Espresso l Cappuccinos
1220 Old Stickney Point Rd., Siesta Key In the Captain Curt’s Plaza
CRESCENT BEACH
er Sale up Ladies
!
THE GREEN TURTLE
OPEN 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM DAILY
27
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GIFTS & SOUVENIRS BEACH FASHIONS BEACH SUPPLIES BEACH COVER-UPS LADIES & JUNIORS FASHIONS SUPER MEN'S LINE In South Bridge Mall
6525 Midnight Pass Road
MAP B-3#14
green TURTLE COUPON
FREE! FREE! FREE! FREE! FREE! FREE! A Free Tropical Gift! 79 c Just For Stopping In
349-4751
VALUE
With This Coupon
No Purchase Necessary
EXPIRES:7/05/2010 Expires 12/31/17
Map C-3#14 Open 7 Days 9 am-5 pm
941-346-1797
“Voted Small Business of the Year by Siesta Key Chamber”
RepaiRs, sales anD accessORies New 50cc Scooters
HOuRly • Daily • Weekly
TREK BIKES • BEACH WHEELCHAIRS • PADDLEBOARDS SCOOTERS • SCOOTER CARS • KAYAKS • KAYAK TOURS CHAIRS/UMBRELLAS • STROLLERS • SNORKELING GEAR
KAYAK TOURS ONLY 45/PERSON • BEST PRICE AROUND FREE DELIVERY AND P/U ON SIESTA KEY FOR MOST RENTALS $
6551 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key, FL in Southbridge Mall • Map C-3#14
5
$
SCOOTER RENTALS f f o Half Days/Full Days/Multi Day Rentals with this Coupon EXPIRES 12/31/14 12/31/17
Bikes • Kayaks • Scooters • Kayak Tours
welcome!
Willkommen
GERMAN BAKERY & CAFE
© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012
German café offering fresh soups and sandwiches on freshly baked breads!
Rum Cakes Breakfast Lunch German Beers and Brats
941-346-1800 • www.ATasteofGermany.net 6575 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key (South of Stickney Pt.)
Map C-3 #14
Map B-3#8
A Taste of Germany 6575 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-3 #14
Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-3 #14
Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road
Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.
MAP A-5 #12
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.
MAP A-3 #4
Coconuts Fashion MAP 1215 Old Stickney Point Rd. B-3 #1&8
Crescent Beach Grocery 1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd.
MAP B-3 #1
Nutritious You 6583 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-3 #14
Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-4 #17
MAP C-3 #14
28
Siesta Sand
APRIL 2017
941.349.0194
Who’s Playing Tonight It probably comes as no surprise that my favorite part of Siesta Key is the impressive pool of talent on display at the many live music venues in the relatively small area of the village where I can always count on discovering another favorite. TJ Hitt, was playing just across the street at The Hub, about the time I was deciding who to interview this month, so I went over to listen for a bit. There are a good number of bands who play live, but it’s kind of rare to see a solo musician who just plays and sings without adding tracks or loops…TJ is in that small club and with his diverse repertoire, he relies on his love of each handpicked song to inspire his passionate performances.
WPT: Where are you from? TJ: Venice, Florida.
WPT: When did you start playing? TJ: It’s hard to say; my sister had a guitar when we were kids, so I guess that was when I got introduced to it and I played a little bit here and there growing up, but I guess I really got focused when I wanted to start playing out because you kind of have to play guitar if you want to sing solo gigs. WPT: When did you start playing out? TJ: Around 2003, I moved to Tallahassee and got a band together there and played out. WPT: Is music your only job? TJ: Yes, other than some times, like in Nashville, when I’ve taken side jobs; music is all I’ve ever done for a living. WPT: What did you do in Nashville? TJ: I moved there around 2009, to work with my friend that was in the Tallahassee band. I just drove up, slept in my car for a bit, met up with musicians, shared an apartment, really got into songwriting and learned how to play the game and monetize what we do from some up and coming pros. I learned first-hand what to do…that meant the difference between having a hobby and
CLUB
BLASE CAFÉ
In the Village 941‐349‐9822
DAIQUIRI DECK RAW BAR In the Village 941‐349‐8697 GILLIGANS
|An interview with TJ Hitt
By Mike Sales I’ve recorded 4 rock albums up in Nashville and recently finished a single up there.
actually making a living. Some of them went on to tour with National acts, some of them still work in town as session players and in the business. I still go up there and work with them to this day.
WPT: Where do you see your career going from here? TJ: I’ve got 3 years of stuff…I’m going to be releasing singles and records once a month. I’d like to make as much money streaming and selling records as I do performing live… that’s goal number 1, but I’d like to ultimately make a living just playing originals and do cover gigs for fun every now and then. I could be in the studio all of the time and be happy… it’s my favorite place to be.
WPT: What does your typical calendar look like? TJ: I try to get up to Nashville once a month…book a show a couple weeks out and time it for when I’m up there. This month, I’ll be performing in a songwriter in the round, singing and playing acoustic and then I’ll be singing in a heavy-metal jam with a bunch of guys who play with country artists for their regular gig…it’s going to be fun. Week to week; I live in Venice and book some weeklys and one offs there, but I play on Siesta Key every week at The Hub 8:30-close on Saturday nights and The Daiquiri Deck 3-7pm on Thursdays. WPT: What can people expect to see when they come to hear you play on Siesta Key? TJ: One guy, one guitar and I aim to please…I’m there to entertain and I keep it simple because it frees me up to go with what the room is in the mood to hear. I don’t mess with looping or tracks, because it’s too constraining and I like to sing a lot of different stuff. The most important thing to focus on, in my opinion, is not whether I’ve reproduced a riff accurately or nailed the bridge section, just like the record, but that I’m playing for people at that moment, so I always try to direct my attention to connecting with them and base my performance on that…because when the people are enjoying it; I know I’m doing my job.
WPT: What kind of music do you play?
www.siestasand.net
TJ Hitt photo by Jan Hitt
WPT: What’s your favorite part about being a full time working musician? TJ: I get to make a living doing what I’m passionate about. It’s not like I have a choice in the matter, because I can’t imagine doing anything else, but I feel very fortunate to have the privilege to do what I love…and it just keeps getting better, because I essentially get paid to practice and improve my art, 300 days a year…you can’t get any closer to the American Dream than that.
TJ: Classic rock, 80’s, 90’s, modern pop…I might play Elton John, I might play Taylor Swift…Johnny Cash, Guns & Roses, Zeppelin, Alanis Morrisette…who knows…when you break it down, they’re all just songs. There are stylistic differences everyone adds to their interpretation, but when you focus on the words and melodies, you’re free to play however and whatever you want.
You can find out more about TJ Hitt, listen to music and watch videos at tjhitt.com
WPT: Have you recorded? TJ: Yes; I did my first recording with my college band in 2005. We came back to Venice to record a demo. Since then,
Mike Sales is a local singer/songwriter for more info log onto mikesalessings.com
The Hub is located at 5148 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key and features live music daily. The Daiquiri Deck is located at 5250 Ocean Blvd and feature live entertainment daily.
LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE MONDAY
Drag Queen Bingo: 10th & 24th @ 8:30pm Live Music: 6pm
TUESDAY
Soundpainters w/Eva Evan Eastmoore & Zack Yoder 6pm
WEDNESDAY
Mike Tozier: 6pm Karaoke w/Emcee Dallas: 10pm
THURSDAY Rob Viola 6pm
SATURDAY
Jason Haram: 2pm Twinkle: 6pm
LIVE MUSIC (3‐7pm) DJ Crawford (10pm) Live Music Acoustic Pete 1‐5pm 6‐10pm Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am DJ 10pm – 2am Eddie James Jazz Band 6‐10pm Whiteleather 2‐6pm Dana & Co 2‐6pm LIVE BAND Mike Tozier 8pm – 12am 8pm – 12am
LIVE MUSIC (3‐7pm) DJ TJ (10pm)
SUNDAY
Live Music: 2pm Bird Tribe or Jason Haram: 6pm BREE (3‐7pm)
Rodney Shenk 6‐10pm
RPM 6‐10pm
Patrick 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am
Al Donadi 7‐11pm
Open mic night 7‐11pm
Kettle of Fish 7‐11pm
Trivia Night 7‐9pm
Snyde Remarks (4th) th Al Donadi Band:11 & 25 th Kettle of Fish (18 )
DJ Coz or Kensi 9pm – 2am
DJ Coz 9pm‐2am
Live Band 8 – 11pm DJ 11‐2am
Live Band 8 –11pm DJ 11pm‐2am
THE COTTAGE
Live Music 6‐9pm
Live Music 6‐9pm
Live Music 6‐9pm
Live Music 7‐10pm
Live Music 7‐10pm
Live Music 7‐10pm
Live Music 6‐9pm
THE HUB‐BAJA GRILL
Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
Live Music Noon – 3 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
Live Music Noon – 3 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
Live Music Noon – 3 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
Live Music 1 – 4pm
Live Music 1‐4pm 4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 ‐ midnight
Live Music Noon – 3 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
In the Village 941‐346‐8122
Lelu’s Coffee Lounge In the Village 941‐346‐5358
SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB) In the Village 941‐346‐5443 THE BEACH CLUB In the Village 941‐349‐6311 In the Village 941‐312‐9300
In the Village 941‐349‐6800
BACKROOM SALOON @ CAPT. CURTS Crescent Beach Shops
941‐349‐3885 SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS
Crescent Beach Shops
941‐349‐3885 Turtle Beach Grill Southern end of SK 941‐349‐3839
9pm‐1am
rd
Tommy Rox: 3 only Chirs Otto: 24th only 6‐10pm
Sunny Jim 6‐10pm
Paul Duffy 6‐10pm
RPM 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am Acoustic Open Mic w/ Nally & Egglefield 6‐10pm Berry Oakley’s Skylab 7‐11pm
FRIDAY
Callie & the Whole Band 6pm
Karaoke 9pm ‐1am Chris Otto 6‐10pm
4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 –midnight
Chris Otto: 7th, 21st Jordy Chirsto: 14th Tommy Rox: 28th 6‐10pm
Karaoke 9pm – 1am
Road Block 2‐6pm Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am TBA – 10am Tozier – 2pm Chris Otto ‐ 7pm Sunday Funday Reggae Bands 9pm‐1am
Tommy Rox: 1st ,15th ,22nd Chris Otto: 16th Jordy Christo: 29th 6‐10pm Marcel (1‐4PM: 8th & 22nd
Nick LeValley: 2nd & 9th 1‐4pm Marcel: 2nd Tommy Rox: 9th & 30th Matt Gerhardt: 23rd 6‐10pm
LIVE MUSIC 3‐6pm
LIVE MUSIC 3‐6pm
Andres Collin 5‐9pm
Larry Williams or Chris Otto 5‐9pm
(Reggae Music)
Over the South Bridge
Sandy Grecco Acoustic (5‐8PM)
Jazz (5‐8PM)
RPM (5‐9PM)
SAND DOLLAR POOL BAR @ Best Western Plus 6600 S. Tamiami Trl. Sarasota 941‐924‐4900
Live Music 3‐6PM
Live Music 3‐6PM
Live Music 3‐6PM
Live Music 4‐8pm
Live Music 3‐7pm
Live Music 3‐7pm
Live Jazz 7‐10PM
Live Jazz 7‐10PM
Live Jazz 7‐10PM
BOATYARD BAR & GRILL
941‐921‐6200
CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey 941‐966‐1901
FANDANGO 1812 s. Osprey Ave, 941‐954‐5400
Tommy Santelli (5‐8PM)
Above information is subject to change. We suggest calling venues for confirmation.
Democracy 4‐8pm
www.siestasand.net
941.349.0194
APRIL 2017
Island Humor [ One Easter morning, the preacher gathered the children of the church in the front of the sanctuary for the weekly children’s sermon. He began with a thematically appropriate question. “Children, today is Easter Sunday. What do we celebrate on Easter?” One girl spoke up quickly: “We remember our mothers and how much we love them.” “No, that’s not quite right,” the pastor replied. “You’re thinking of Mother’s Day.” Then, an eager boy took a shot: “Easter is a time when we say ‘thank you’ to God for all the good things in our lives.” “We can always say ‘thank you’ to God,” the pastor said, beginning to worry about the dullness of the children in his church. “But, you’re thinking of Thanksgiving, not Easter. Children, what is the meaning of Easter?” After a few seconds of awkward silence, another girl in a fancy Easter dress gave it a try. “Easter,” she said tentatively, “is the day when we remember that Jesus died on the cross for our sins. Then he was buried in the tomb. On Easter morning, God rolled the stone away and Jesus came out of the tomb.”
“Excellent,” cried the relieved pastor. “And then,” the girl continued, “Jesus looked and saw his shadow, so he went back into the tomb and there were six more weeks of winter!” [ One Easter a priest and a taxi driver both died and went to heaven. St. Peter was at the Pearly gates waiting for them. ‘Come with me,’ said St. Peter to the taxi driver. The taxi driver did as he was told and followed St. Peter to a mansion. It had everything you could imagine from a bowling alley to an Olympic size pool. ‘Oh my word, thank you,’ said the taxi driver. Next, St. Peter led the priest to a rough old shack with a bunk bed and a little old television set. ‘Wait, I think you are a little mixed up,’ said the priest. ‘Shouldn’t I be the one who gets the mansion? After all I was a priest, went to church every day, and preached God’s word.’ ‘Yes, that’s true.’ St. Peter rejoined, ‘But during your Easter
sermons people slept. When the taxi driver drove, everyone prayed.’ [ Marty, a little boy, was in church one Easter Sunday with his mother Doris, when he started feeling sick. ‘Mummy,’ he inquired, ‘can we leave now?’ ‘No,’ his mother replied, ‘the service isn’t over yet.’ ‘Well, I think I’m about to throw up.’ Marty announced. ‘Then go out of the front door and around to the back of the church and throw up behind a bush.’ said Doris. After about sixty seconds, Marty returned to his pew, alongside his mother. ‘Did you throw up?’ Marty’s Mum asked quietly. ‘Yes,’ Marty answered, embarrassed. ‘How could you have gone all the way to the back of the church and returned so quickly?’ Doris demanded. ‘I didn’t have to go out of the church, Mummy. They have a box next to the front door that says, “For the Sick”.’
Island Visitor Publishing, LLC
th...
Mon Bartender of The
Bar & Grill d n la Is ’s n a g li il G ., Siesta Key 5253 Ocean Blvd 941-346-8122 ndbar.com a sl si n a g li il .g w ww
HOTTEST BAR
Name of Bartender: Lia
IN GULF GATE...
Hometown: Sarasota, Florida
MLB/College Packages FULL BAR
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Q: How long have you been bartending? A: I’ve been bartending for 8 years. Q: What was the strangest or funniest thing you experienced at work? A: From bikini contests to frozen turkey bowling to filming music videos, I have seen it all at Gilligan’s. Q: What do you do in your spare time? A: In my spare time, I love to travel. I’m always planning my next trip. Q: How would describe yourself? A: I work hard and play harder. Q: How would you describe where you work? A: I work with a bunch of great people in a fun, lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to grab a drink and dance the night away.
6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905
Q: When’s the best time to see you? A: You can catch me at Gilligan’s Tiki Bar on Wednesday nights, Friday during the day, Saturday and Sunday nights.
Karaoke Thursday, Friday & Saturday
30
Siesta Sand
APRIL 2017
941.349.0194
Snapshots of Island Visitors
Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography
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www.siestasand.net
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11 1. Amiee, Paige age 8, Peyton age 4, from Sarasota 2. Avery, Isabelle, Olivia, Rebecca, Mariah, Anna, Gabie, Zoe, Gracie, Christina, and Anna from Sarasota
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3. Maggie and Emma from IN 4. Katie and Marissa from PA 5. Hanna, Kelsey, Lauryn, Jenny, and Colleen from TX 6. Courtney and Molly from IN 7. Honor age 14 mo., Tia, and Kyle from Ft. Myers 8. Kimberly, Tony, Tony, Sylvan age 4, Orion age 9, Rowan age 7, and Rhonda from PA 9. Kara and Stephanie from OH 10. Mallory, Maddison, Peter, Penny and Lisa from TX 11. Caya age 10, Keeley age 6, Candy and Andrew from Canada 12. Pennie age 2, Mya age 12, Natalie, Lucie age 3 and Conor from Tampa
www.siestasand.net
941.349.0194
Water World Captain Jim Klopfer’s Fishing Report Adventure Charters 941-371-1390
Cobia are caught occasionally in Sarasota Bay in April
Mother Nature has been kind to us this “winter”. I use that term loosely as it has averaged ten degrees above normal and fishing has been great! April should offer incredible fishing for a variety of species. Big Pass and New Pass will be alive with fish migrating in and out of the bay this month. Spanish mackerel, bluefish, pompano, and ladyfish should be plentiful. Pompano prefer a small white or chartreuse jig bounced along the bottom while the mackerel are often found higher in the water column or breaking on the surface. There is nothing more exciting than casting a surface plug on light tackle or a fly into a feeding frenzy! Action on the deep flats will be very good for speckled trout, pompano, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and ladyfish. The best flats to fish will be from Siesta Drive north to Long Bar. Flats that are near both passes will be especially productive. A ¼ ounce Bass Assassin Sea Shad is a great lure to prospect with; a lot of water can be covered and just about every species will hit it. Plugs work very well when surface activity is seen, they also are a great lure to troll slowly and locate schools of fish. Silver and gold spoons are another good choice. Live bait is always a great choice, too. A live shrimp free lined or fished under a noisy float is a deadly technique. The area between Siesta Drive and Blackburn Point will be good
for snook as they migrate out towards the beach to spawn. Any point, oyster bar, dock, or creek mouth that drops off into deeper water is a likely spot to try. High, outgoing tides are best. Plugs cover a lot of water and result in vicious strikes while jigs require more patience but will fool more redfish along with snook. Don’t be surprised when a big jack crevelle or trout inhales an offering meant for a snook or red. This has been a good season for sheepshead and while it is past its peak there should still be plenty of these tasty saltwater panfish around. Docks, seawalls, and bridges near passes will hold sheepies. A live shrimp fished on the bottom will fool them, along with snapper, grouper, and flounder. Surf fishing should be very good for Spanish mackerel, ladyfish, flounder, pompano, and more. Live or frozen shrimp fished near the bottom with a little weight works well. Spoons, plugs, and jigs will also catch plenty of fish, too. April is a great month for anglers with a small boat and not a lot of experience to catch big fish. The beaches and inshore artificial reefs will be thick with king and Spanish mackerel, along with false albacore and the occasional cobia. Trolling spoons is very easy and deadly on all species. Sight casting to schools of breaking fish is fantastic sport using spinning or fly tackle.
APRIL 2017
31
Island Visitor Publishing, LLC
Notes from the Island Fishmonger
By Scott Dolan, Big Water Fish Market
Eat Like A King Although the month of Lent ends with Easter weekend, that is no reason to stop eating fish on a religious schedule. As a matter of fact, with the health benefits and delicious taste factors, I can’t think of any reason to discontinue your hearthealthy fish diet. First of all, April fishing begins our prime season on the Gulf Coast. Yes, we will see a decline in some of our favorite cold water fish such as Tripletail, Sheepshead, and Pompano although all these fish will still be available, just not as abundant. The great news is many of the March commercial fishing regulations get lifted in April. Red and Black Grouper closings are lifted in Mexico so we will see a huge relief in the prices of both Grouper species. A local favorite, Cobia, will migrate back to Sarasota in search of warmer waters and as always, all Amberjack regulations are lifted this time of year. Our Gulf Snapper will be plentiful, especially Yellowtail Snapper and Key West Grunts. As with the Grouper, Snapper prices should also begin to drop in April. April through September is prime “El Dorado” (more commonly known as Mahi Mahi) fishing, especially in Key West as they migrate to our waters during the summer time. Cobia, Amberjack, and Mahi Mahi are on the hot list but don’t forget about the Kingfish or King Mackerel as it is probably the hottest catch of the month. Many of you are looking forward to chasing the Tarpon this Spring and I wish you luck. I’m not that interested in catching a Tarpon because of the backbreaking work for a fish I can’t eat or sell. There’s no money in it. The Kingfish is what I want. It is an underrated fish. I have even heard it called a trash fish. This is simply not true. If properly prepared, this fish is outstanding table fare. Back in my offshore recreational fishing days, we were after Grouper & Snapper like everyone else. I’m sure that’s part of the reason these particular fish got overfished and we now have season restrictions to protect them. I can’t tell you how many Spanish Mackerel, Barracuda, Grunts, Blacktip Sharks, Porgies and Kings I have thrown back per the Captain’s request. All these fish were considered trash fish back then and now today they are all good eating. The Kingfish or King Mackerel is a migratory species from the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico. In April, our waters will be blessed with the migration and spawning of this fish as it passes through the Sarasota area from Texas. The King is
Local Captain Jack catches a King Mackerel
a medium sized fish typically encountered from 5 to 30 lbs. I personally think this is a beautiful fish in appearance with its lateral line that starts high on the shoulder, dips abruptly at mid-body then continues as a wavy horizontal line to the tail. Its color is best described as black and olive, fading to silver with a rosy iridescence on the sides. More often than not this fish has yellowish-brown spots on the flanks. This fish has large edged teeth so you don’t want to get bit while taking this fish off the hook. The raw flesh is grayish with a pink hue due to its high fat content. The fish has a denser texture and is a bit oilier than most fish but the fat content gives this fish great flavor and is a great source of omega 3 fatty acid and fish oil. This fish is much better served quickly after a catch as the meat deteriorates quicker than most fish. King Mackerel are primarily marketed fresh for that reason. The fish may be sold as fillets, steaks or whole. They are best prepared by grilling, frying, baking and most popular is smoked. A few menu items you may see in April at your Big Water Fish Market is a Fresh Cobia Poke, Mahi Mahi or Amberjack served with spicy rice and a tropical salsa, fried King Fish tacos, a King Mackerel stir fry and Smoked Kings. In May look for the end of Stone Crab season so get your fix in before May 15th. Carolina and Maryland live Softshell Crabs and Alaskan Crab legs will take their place.
Live well, Eat Fish! Scott Dolan Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key 941-554-8101 www.BigWaterFishMarket.com
|Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans Let’s go sailing, KATHLEEN D Sailing Catamarans, serving Siesta Key from 3 locations: Downtown Sarasota, Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island. If you would like to experience being on the water viewing Dolphin Watches, Sunset Sails, Snorkeling and Shelling call us at 941-870-4349 or go to our web site for detailed information www.kathleend.net USCG Certified for 20 passengers.
APRIL 2017 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay
April 2017
N 27° 20' / W 82° 33'
The Big Water Fish Market…
where it’s a seafood festival every day! Start your year off with a great seafood sandwich at BWFM!! Monday - Grouper BLT Tuesday - Soft Shell Crab Sandwich Wednesday - Grouper Reuben Thursday - Lobster Roll Day! Friday - Aaron’s Triple Decker Sea Club Sandwich Saturday - Shrimp Po’ Boy Sunday - Pompano Cubano
Open for lunch and dinner www.bigwaterfishmarket.com • 941-554-8101
Date
Day
1
Sa
5:18a
High Tide 1.2
3:35p
High Tide 2.1
9:56a
Low Tide 0.9
Low Tide
Sunrise
Sunset
Moonrise
7:21a
7:48p
11:04a
2
Su
7:18a
1.1
4:24p
2.1
12:21a
-0.3
3
Mo
5:28p
1.9
1:40a
-0.2
7:19a
7:49p
11:59a
12:53a
7:18a
7:49p
12:57p
4
Tu
7:00p
1.8
3:01a
-0.2
1:53a
7:17a
7:50p
1:56p
2:48a
5
We
11:22a
1.4
8:47p
1.7
4:11a
-0.2
3:37p
6
Th
11:41a
1.5
10:12p
1.7
5:07a
-0.1
5:02p
1.2
7:16a
7:50p
2:55p
3:39a
1.0
7:15a
7:51p
3:53p
7
Fr
12:00p
1.6
11:17p
1.7
5:51a
0.0
4:25a
6:00p
0.7
7:14a
7:51p
4:50p
8
Sa
12:18p
1.6
6:28a
5:07a
0.1
6:45p
0.6
7:13a
7:52p
5:46p
9
Su
12:09a
1.6
12:35p
1.7
5:46a
6:58a
0.3
7:24p
0.3
7:12a
7:53p
6:40p
10
Mo
12:54a
1.6
12:50p
6:23a
1.8
7:23a
0.4
7:59p
0.2
7:11a
7:53p
7:34p
11
Tu
1:34a
1.6
6:59a
1:06p
1.9
7:46a
0.6
8:33p
0.1
7:10a
7:54p
8:27p
12
We
2:12a
7:35a
1.5
1:25p
2.0
8:06a
0.6
9:08p
0.0
7:09a
7:54p
9:19p
8:11a
13
Th
14
Fr
2:50a
1.4
1:47p
2.0
8:27a
0.7
9:45p
-0.1
7:08a
7:55p
10:11p
8:48a
3:32a
1.3
2:13p
2.1
8:48a
0.8
10:26p
-0.1
7:07a
7:55p
11:03p
15
9:27a
Sa
4:22a
1.3
2:44p
2.1
9:11a
0.9
11:13p
-0.1
7:06a
7:56p
11:53p
10:08a
16
Su
5:25a
1.2
3:20p
2.0
9:35a
1.0
7:04a
7:56p
17
Mo
6:56a
1.2
4:03p
1.9
12:07a
0.0
10:02a
1.1
7:03a
7:57p
12:43a
11:39a
18
Tu
4:58p
1.8
1:09a
0.0
7:02a
7:57p
1:30a
12:29p
19
We
9:53a
1.3
6:14p
1.7
2:16a
0.0
1:07p
1.2
7:02a
7:58p
2:16a
1:21p
20
Th
10:20a
1.4
7:50p
1.6
3:19a
0.1
3:06p
1.2
7:01a
7:58p
3:01a
2:16p
21
Fr
10:43a
1.5
9:18p
1.6
4:14a
0.1
4:23p
1.0
7:00a
7:59p
3:43a
3:12p
22
Sa
11:04a
1.6
10:30p
1.7
5:02a
0.1
5:20p
0.7
6:59a
8:00p
4:24a
4:11p
23
Su
11:26a
1.7
11:31p
1.7
5:43a
0.2
6:07p
0.5
6:58a
8:00p
5:05a
5:12p
24
Mo
11:48a
1.8
6:20a
0.3
6:52p
0.2
6:57a
8:01p
5:46a
6:14p
25
Tu
12:27a
1.7
12:12p
2.0
6:53a
0.5
7:38p
0.0
6:56a
8:01p
6:29a
7:19p
26
We
1:22a
1.6
12:39p
2.1
7:24a
0.6
8:25p
-0.3
6:55a
8:02p
7:13a
8:26p
27
Th
2:18a
1.6
1:10p
2.3
7:52a
0.8
9:15p
-0.4
6:54a
8:02p
8:01a
9:33p
28
Fr
3:18a
1.5
1:44p
2.4
8:19a
0.9
10:08p
-0.4
6:53a
8:03p
8:53a
10:40p
29
Sa
4:28a
1.3
2:23p
2.4
8:44a
1.1
11:07p
-0.4
6:52a
8:04p
9:49a
11:44p
30
Su
5:58a
1.2
3:07p
2.3
9:08a
1.1
6:52a
8:04p
10:47a
10:12a
1.0
©2017 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW
Moonset
Phase
1st
Full
10:52a
3rd
New
32
Siesta Sand
APRIL 2017
HOOP GIRL - Ashlynn (13) of Idaho manipulating a hoop at a recent drum circle on Siesta Beach. She and her family moved to Sarasota four years ago. Ashlynn started working with a hoop when she was about 6 years old. She became proficient hula hooping around her waist and then began exploring other possibilities.
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AT THE BEACH
THREE DAYS AT THE BEACH - One day each, right? Four year old triplets, Quinn, Dylan, and Madison of Providence, RI still energized after a day on spectacular Siesta Beach. This is the second year in a row to visit their grandparents.
WEEKLY BEACH CLASSES: • FREE T’AI CHI CHIH - Siesta Beach, Access #5 - Every Monday, 15 minutes before sunset. Open to all, no experience necessary. Contact Diana Daffner 941-346-1024 for information. (Access #5 is in Siesta Village, where Beach Rd meets Ocean Blvd.) • FREE YOGA - Mon.-Wed.-Fri.-Sat. 9am. Classes held between blue and green lifeguard station. Call 941320-6693 to register or go to website for more info. www.yogaonsiestabeach.com/about • NIA - Tues. & Thurs., 9a.m., Siesta Public Beach (yellow lifeguard chair). Contact Kathy Oravec at 941-724-9719 for more info or check website: www.nianow.com/kathy-oravec • SIESTA KEY BEACH HOOP JAMS – Every Tuesday one hour before Sunset on Siesta Key beach we gather for a community Hoop Jam. (Between the red lifeguard stand and the pavilion; around where the Sunday drum circle happens.) Register at: www.outwardspiral.net • TUESDAY MORNING YOGA AT TURTLE BEACH: March – April: Every Tuesday, 8:30-9:30 am. For more information about registration, please e-mail Julie at: julie@chesapeakeyoga.com WEEKLY DRUM CIRCLE: • Every Sunday about an hour before sunset. South of the main pavilion. You can participate or watch this weekly gathering dance, hoop, play the drum or other musical instrument and enjoy the spectacular Siesta sunset. On The Beach… • APRIL 1 (SAT) 6-11AM / RUN FOR THE TURTLES: It’s time to dust off those running shoes and get ready for the 31st Annual Run for the Turtles. The Run supports sea turtle conservation and research at Mote Marine Laboratory and is the Sea Turtle Conservation Program’s major fundraiser — Here’s your chance to help sea turtles! The event takes place at Siesta Key Public Beach, 948 Beach Road. Registration begins 6:30 a.m. at the Siesta Key Gazebo, south of the pavilion. The 1-Mile Fun Run or Walk begins at 7:30 a.m. and the 5K Manasota Track Club-Sanctioned Run begins at 8 a.m. More Info: Contact Paula Clark, (941) 388-4441, ext. 357 or pclark@mote. org. For more information, visit mote.org/run. • APRIL 1 (SAT) 6-10PM / MOONLIGHT MOVIES: Enjoy a family night of fun on beautiful Siesta Key beach beginning at sunset with a FREE screening of Pixar’s “Finding Dory.” Snacks will be available for purchase, and remember to bring your own blankets and chairs. Rain date: April 15. For more information and for a full schedule of moonlight movies, click the link below: https://www.sarasotafilmfestival.com/news/117-2016-2017moonlight-movies-schedule-set • APRIL 7-9 (FRI-SUN) 8AM-8PM / FIESTA ON SIESTA: Siesta Beach will be hosting the annual Fiesta on Siesta collegiate beach volleyball tournament. Come and see schools from across the country compete and enjoy some beautiful beach weather. For more information, go to: www.fiestaonsiestakey.com/index.html. • APRIL 15 (SAT) 9-11AM / EASTER EGG HUNT: This event is open to children age 1-6 ($10 per child). This year’s hunt will be located at Turtle Beach and sign-in begins at 9:00 a.m. In addition
IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency (General)................................................. 911 Emergency Animal Clinic.........................941-929-1818 Fishing & Hunting Licenses.....................941-362-9888 FPL – Florida Power & Light....................941-917-0708 FPL – Outage Report............................. 1-800-468-8243 Marriage License Bureau..........................941-362-4066 Poison Info Center................................. 1-800-282-3171 Sarasota / Bradenton Intl. Airport................................ ......................................................................941-359-2770 Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT).......................... ......................................................................941-316-1234 Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce................................ ......................................................................941-349-3800 Sheriff / non-emergency..........................941- 861-1601 Waste Management...................................941-924-1254
UNDER CONSTRUCTION This sparkling new red lifeguard tower will soon replace it’s mate on the Gulf of Mexico shore of America’s number one beach. The existing lifeguard stands have served the county’s stellar lifeguards and beachgoers well since about 1996. Sarasota Parks and Recreation and Natural Resources plans to replace all four before the end of 2018. Two will be replaced this year and two next year.
What’s Happening to the hunt, there will be face painting, goody bags, fire truck & ambulance tours and the Easter Bunny himself. You can contact the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce at 941-349-3800 or go to www.siestakeychamber.com and follow the link on the home page to register. • APRIL 15 (SUN) 6-10AM / PINE SHORES EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE: Pine Shores Presbyterian Church will host its’ annual sunrise service on the beach beginning at sunrise (6:30 a.m.) on the beautiful sand of Siesta Key Beach. *Please remember to bring blankets, chairs, or something to sit on* • APRIL 21-22 (FRI-SAT) 8AM-7PM/ EAST END VOLLEYBALL TOURNAMENT: The goal of the leagues is to foster good, honorable competition on the volleyball court with every team following the spirit of fair competition. Players/teams should strive to reach their highest level of competition in a fair sportsmanlike manner. Winning is important but it should be far from the ultimate goal. This is not the Pros and the prizes are not really worth that much. For more information, go to their website: www.eevb.net • APRIL 22 (SAT) 8-10AM / GREAT AMERICAN CLEANUP: Siesta Key beaches will be participating in the Great American Cleanup initiative. This is a nationwide beach cleanup project taking place on multiple beaches and Keep Sarasota County Beautiful is seeking up to 500 volunteers to assist with cleanup. If you would like to volunteer, please contact Keep Sarasota County Beautiful or visit www.scgov.net. • APRIL 29 (SAT) 6-11AM / PORCH LIGHT 5K RACE: On Saturday, April 29th Siesta Beach will host the third annual Porch Light 5K race. This participant-friendly run features a 1-mile fun run as well as a traditional 5K. All proceeds from this event support the Porch Light Ministry’s Florida safe house - a program that serves to rescue and restore child victims of victims of the sex trafficking trade. To register or for more information, please click the link below: http://www.active.com/sarasota-fl/running/distance-runningraces/the-porch-light-5k-2017 Around the island… • WEEKLY FARMER’S MARKET IN THE VILLAGE: Every Sunday from 8am – 2pm in Davidson’s Plaza in the Village. 5124 Ocean Blvd. Produce, Plants & Flowers, Music, Art, Organic Skincare, Italian Olive Oil, and Freshly Prepared Foods. Listen to live music while you shop. • APRIL 8 (SAT) 8:30AM-2PM / FLY FISHING CLASS: CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, 1249 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL will have an Orvis-Endorsed fly fishing school on Sat, April 8th, 2017. CB’s is located right off the Stickney Point Bridge on Siesta Key. The school will cover fly casting basics, line control, shooting line and the roll cast. Instructors, Capt. Rick Grassett and Capt. Ed Hurst, will also cover leader construction, fly selection and saltwater fly fishing techniques. The course, designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters, will focus on basics but also work with intermediate casters on correcting faults and improving casting skills. Cost for the school, which will run from 8:30 AM to 2 PM, is $150 per person and includes the use of Orvis fly tackle and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 349-4400 or info@cbsoutfitters.com to make reservations.
SPRING BREAK - Hanna (17), is a HS Junior from Houlton, WI. She was eager to relate she was a cheerleader last year when the HS football team won the Wisconsin State Championship. Hanna’s favorite aspect of America’s No. 1, Siesta Beach, “I like how the sand feels on my feet, it’s really soft”.
And Beyond… • PHILLIPI ESTATE PARK: 5500 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231. April will be the final month of the Phillippi Farmhouse Market with plenty of spring fruits and vegetables at the markets 5 local produce stands. The market even has a USDA Certified Organic grower and most of the vendors use natural controls to grow their fruits and vegetables. Talk with the farmers and they will tell you how they protect their crops from bugs, viruses, etc. The market continues to have local artisans with unique handicrafts, artists, food trucks with delicious bbq, fish tacos, French crepes ( sweet and savory), soft serve ice cream, baked goods, New Orleans muffuletta sandwiches and Amish donuts. There is always live music, and the Welcome Tent has the friendliest FRIENDS OF SARASOTA COUNTY PARKS volunteers who have all the latest flyers and information about what’s happening in Sarasota and environs. The market is open 9 a.m. until 2 p.m. on Wednesdays and at 10 a.m. sharp there is a free tour of the Edson Keith Mansion where a knowledgeable docent will tell all about the Italian Renaissance home and early Sarasota history. Please be on time for this fascinating tour. Dogs are welcome at the Farmhouse Market and there’s even a Wash ‘n Wagon to keep Fido clean. Check it out. On Sunday, April 23, the Bradenton-Sarasota Rose Society has a free monthly meeting at 2 – 4 pm. in the Mansion. The public is welcome to join in the program and refreshments. For more information, please visit: www.bsrs.org. Enjoy strolling the park’s shoreline trails and coastal hammock behind the Gazebo. Bird watching and photography are two very pleasant pasttimes in the 60-acre county park. Well-behaved dogs on leash are always welcome. For more information, please call 941-316-1309. • MARCH 31 – APRIL 9 /SARASOTA FILM FESTIVAL: Held annually in Sarasota, FL., The Sarasota Film Festival emphasizes the best in cinema alongside exciting programs and events, with more than 180 films screened each year including features, documentaries, shorts, and kid-friendly picks. Entering our 19th year, we’re proud to bring the best new and veteran independent filmmakers to our Festival with local and kid-friendly programs that showcase our idyllic Gulf Coast community. Go to their website for program info: www.sarasotafilmfestival.com. • PALM AVENUE FIRST FRIDAY GALLERY WALK / 6:00PM to 9:00PM: Every month local galleries open their doors to the public for the evening, offering a chance to meet with artists and admire their work. Key Gallery, a contemporary fine arts gallery, will be making its debut in time for the May gallery walk. See website for location map. palmavenue.org. • TOWLES COURT THIRD FRIDAY ARTWALKS / 5-9PM: Gallery and studio openings on a moonlit evening of fun and beauty- both natural and handcrafted beauty. Free music, events, refreshments. Meet the artists, shop and dine in authentic “ Old Florida” in downtown Sarasota. 1938 Adams Lane Sarasota, Florida 34236. towlescourt.com We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, please be sure to always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.
Places of Worship
941-349-5616 www.bonifacechurch.org
6908 Beneva Road, Sarasota, 941.922.7595 www.uccstandrew.org
Island Churches: • Siesta Key Presbyterian Chapel 4615 Gleason Ave, Siesta Key, 941-349-1166 www.siestakeychapel.org
Off- Island: •Temple Sinai, a Reform Congregation (The closest Jewish congregation to the Key for visitors) 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, 941-924-1802 www.templesinai-sarasota.org
• The Superior Word Rev. Charlie Garrett Service starts Sunday mornings at 10am. Bring a friend and share in God’s word. 6512 Superior Avenue, Sarasota, FL 34231
• St. Michael’s Catholic Church 5394 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4174 www.stmichaelssiesta.com • St. Boniface Episcopal Church 5615 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key,
• St. Andrew United Church of Christ (Protestant) (In the Gulf Gate area, near Beneva and Gulf Gate Drive)
• First Christian Church 7601 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241. 941-922-4434 www.fccsarasota.com
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Arts on the Horizon
April 17th is coming. Paid your taxes yet? Even with the two day grace period (April 15th falls on a Saturday this year), are you stressed? Then let’s explore some ways to cycle down. Music is a universal stress reliever so let’s go with that. And the best way to ward off the IRS Blues is to pace ourselves as that fateful day approaches. How about a musical interlude every third day - April 3rd .... 6th .... 9th .... and 12th. The questions now are - Where to find music on such a specific schedule, where would it be performed and what type of music would it be? OK, let’s cut to the chase. La Musica, Sarasota’s own International Chamber Music Festival, is ready to crank up the soothing vibes. Maybe “crank up” isn’t quite the right description, and since the Modern Jazz Quartet no longer performs, there will be no vibes in chamber music. But soothing it will be - and exciting, peaceful, dynamic, soaring and expealidocious. How do I know? I’ve seen the schedule. Monday, April 3rd (8 p.m.) starts the series off with a Mendelssohn piano trio, a Webern string quartet and a Strauss piano quartet with Derek Han, piano; Bruno Giuranna, viola; JeongHyoun Lee, cello and Federico Agostini, Claudio Cruz and Cecilia Ziano, alternating on violin. April 6th (8 p.m.) presents Bach and Dvorak piano quartets and a Mozart string trio. The sameish cast of characters will perform along with Daniel Avshalomov, cello. April 9th (2:30 p.m.) brings back Mendelssohn along with Schubert and Smetana (not playing, but being played). Hsin-Yun Huang and Antonio Meneses play cello along with the regulars, as they perform two lovely trios and a quintet. Things get jazzed a bit on April 12th (8 p.m.) with a Paganini quartet, which includes Jason Vieaux on guitar, a Boccherini Quintet (Fandango) and cools down with a Schumann piano quintet. All these trios, quartets and quintets are performed at the Sarasota Opera House. Feel calm now? Great. Oh, wait - did you forget to attach your required schedules? Bummer! You best attend the rehearsals for this wonderful music on April 1, 2, 4, 5, 7, 8, 10 and 11 at Sainer Pavilion on Bay Shore Road.
APRIL 2017
33
Siesta Key Round-Up
By Rodger Skidmore
Whew, that was rough. What? You forgot to sign all the forms? Then sign up for the 6 p.m. interactive dinner on April 7th at Michael’s Wine Cellar on S. Tamiami Trail. There will be cooking demonstrations, with some of the La Musica artists, as the evening’s meal is created. And, with all those beautiful wine bottles, from floor to ceiling, it will be the perfect getaway for the next few months. You’re kidding? You forgot to include your check? Hide out amongst La Musica musicians at the Dolphin Aviation airplane hanger, 8191 N. Tamiami Trail, at 5:30 p.m. on April 5th, drown (and stuff) your sorrows with wine and light refreshments while a mini-Mozart concert blocks out the sound of your sobbing. Rehearsal dates, tickets, and other musical information at LaMusicaFestival.org.
Island Visitor Publishing, LLC
then you must make your own to glorify yourself. To realize that being different can make you special and that, if you look hard enough, that there are other special people just like you. Not in every way, of course, but in enough ways so that there is kinship and camaraderie. There are two other things to do about those bad days. One is to understand that those same kinds of bad days have been had by many, many other people and that the best way for everyone’s bad days to stop is for all of us to embrace the differences we have with other people. The other thing to do is to go to Bayfront Park, just south of Marina Jack’s, and see the 45 billboard size images that are part of the Embracing Our Differences exhibit. This year’s theme is “enriching lives through diversity” and the exhibit runs April 1st - May 31st. That means you can go by yourself and later go along with others. Take someone who is lots younger and they may grow up to know that differences actually do enhance lives. More at EmbracingOurDifferences.Org.
Continued from page 17
Referencing public opposition to Siesta Promenade — which Benderson Development hopes to build on the northwest corner of the U.S. 41/Stickney Point Road intersection — she added that it took her only a few days to get 200 signatures on a petition against the project when she circulated it on foot. The petition talks of the negative aspects of the mixed-use development, including traffic congestion, neighborhood incompatibility and the addition of far more vehicles on a daily basis on a major hurricane evacuation route, she said. She has continued to propose that the site become a park with a shuttle station that could provide “much needed transportation to Siesta Key and its beaches, thus mitigating the traffic and environmental issues …” Of course, Benderson would have to divest itself of the property to allow the creation of the park, she continued. The company could donate the property to the county, sell it to the county or use it for mitigation purposes, she added. In regard to the latter idea: Bazzini told the city commissioners, she had talked with Dru Jones, economic development coordinator of the Newtown-North Sarasota Redevelopment Team; and Jetson Grimes of the Greater Newtown Redevelopment Corp. about the possibility of interesting Benderson’s leadership in developing the Marian Anderson Place. “I have no idea if this is possible,” she said. “It’s just a thought.” In early January, the city’s director of neighborhood and development services told the commissioners he hoped to be back before them within 60 days with proposed language for an Invitation to Negotiate regarding the development of the approximately 13-acre brownfield in north Sarasota. Further, Bazzini said on March 6, Todd Mathes, Benderson’s director of development, has promised to arrange a meeting between her and Randy Benderson, CEO of the firm. “I’m a great believer in face-to-face [discussions],” she pointed out. “So far,” she continued, “getting a meeting with Mr. Benderson is harder than getting an audience with the Pope. However, I have not given up hope.” She believes Mathes is a man of his word, she added.
Free Donut or coffee March to a different drummer What a difference a day makes. Really. A day. Do you remember that day in elementary or high school when that snotty whats-his/ her-name said that really horrible thing about you? And while what they said was true - you were a _______, or had a ________, or wore a _______, or one or both of your parents were _______, or you believed ________, or you didn’t have a _______ - what was wrong with that? What was horrible was that they’d singled you out and said it. And the next day when three other kids said the same thing and they didn’t even know you, what was that all about? One day you’re up, the next you’re down and the next it feels like they’re stepping on you. But what about that other day? The day when you realized who you were and that you being you was OK. Wasn’t that a wonderful day? Sure hope you’ve had that day. Actually hope you had a bunch of those good days because we are made up of so many different bits and pieces that there will always be something that someone is going to criticize. Or worse - you will see some of those differences and, without anyone even saying anything, you will feel bad about whatever that something is. And it will just be because you’ve felt so bad about yourself before that you wind up feeling bad about yourself again. What you need to do is, not just march to a different drummer, but dance to a different tune. Which means that, first, realize that it’s OK for there to be different drummers, or better yet, different music. And that, if you can’t find another drummer, or that different music,
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Red Velvet Red velvet can be a cake or used as a kind of flocked wallpaper, usually found on the walls of bordellos in New Orleans. Then again, it could be the beginning and end of something quite different. Imagine that you’re an artist and have just had some of your chairs recovered. That wasn’t hard, was it? Now imagine that, while checking out fabric with your decorator you see a bolt with just a bit of cloth on it - a remanent - an end of something. And now imagine that, like a bolt from the blue, you fell in love with that bit of red. Voilà, a new beginning. Well, that is what happened to Peppi Elona, a Sarasota artist. Ms. Elona started her career in New York but transferred down to Sarasota in 2000 and has been working her craft here ever since. Using traditional supplies like paint, brushes, canvases and her eye, she has created numerous works that have been on display at the Selby Gallery and the Longboat Key Center for the Arts, among other venues. Now, in her solo show, Beginning To End, at Art Center Sarasota (thru April 21st on Tamiami Trail), she has taken that red velvet and spun it into a series of eye and mind catching images, marrying collage with her more traditional techniques.
Everyone can treat themselves to a FREE Donut or coffee from the new Donut Experiment location in the SK Village. Just redeem the coupon located on page 19 of this edition. Every donut is made fresh. Here is what they are saying online; The Donut Experiment on Anna Maria Island has been on my “bookmark” list for months, but it’s just a little out of the way, so we had not made it there...but when I found out a location was moving on Siesta Key, I was SO excited! My daughter and I visited today around lunchtime and we had a really great experience! The staff was very friendly, the donuts were fun to pick out (and very tasty) and the prices were reasonable. I also loved the house iced coffee! The Donut Experiment is located at 217 Avenida Madera, 941-312-0521.
Bottom left to right: Laura Orjuela, Giovanna Genta, and Mackenzie Gaitens. Top left to right: Stacey Monroe, Joey Flanagan, Sean Mixon, Patrick Skladonowski, Abby Donnelly, Mika Kuschnitsky, Sam Monroe. Not pictured: Kaitlyn Burrell
Nine students receive Andrew Monroe scholarships The Andrew Monroe Memorial Scholarship Fund hosted a 5K on January 8th. Funds generated from the 5K awarded $4, 000 in scholarships to nine recipients during the Riverview High School Soccer Awards ceremony Feb. 23, at the Hyatt Regency in Sarasota. Following Monroe’s death in a 2011 car crash, the Monroe family set up the scholarship fund in his memory to assist RHS soccer athletes for a legacy of high education. An education he was unable to complete. To qualify, each applicant submitted an essay explaining how they emulate the traits and characteristics that defined Monroe. Continued on page 37
Published by Island Visitor Publishing, LLC Contributing Writers and Photographers will be noted with bylines. Guest commentary not necessarily the opinion of island Visitor Publishing, LLC Reproduction without written permission prohibited. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement. All business bios are extensions of the display advertisements. Island Visitor Publishing, LLC is not responsible for claims made by advertisers. All ads are subject to the approval of the publisher. It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in Siesta Sand to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with town, county and state codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property. DISCLAIMER: Please be aware that when you hire an unlicensed/uninsured person to do work at your home, you accept the liability. Island Visitor Publishing is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.
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34
Siesta Sand
APRIL 2017
Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography
Marianne, Alexis and Cassandra from MA
941.349.0194
Off Key
By Robert Frederickson
Amy, Hailey, Megan, Molly and Kristen from OH
Jack, Mara, Miranda, Kenady, Brynn, Sydney, Leah, Emma and Bradon from IA
|From Island Traffic to Airport Lapses
The End of an Era in Sarasota Voters in Sarasota have decided to shake things up on the city commission, preferring political newcomers Jennifer Ahearn-Koch, Hagen Brody and Matin Hyde over incumbent Susan Chapman and former commissioner Fredd Atkins for two at large seats on the board. The three newcomers will face-off in a runoff election on May 9th to determine the final winners. Chapman had touted her experience and the importance of preserving the “institutional memory” of the commission in her decision to seek reelection. But in keeping with broader political trends nationwide, voters appear to have put a greater premium on looking ahead rather than on revisiting the past this time around. Known for her tenacity in pursuing policies important to her core supporters - namely noise complaints from neighborhood groups and growing concerns over loitering by the homeless downtown, Chapman was never shy about voicing her opinion on the issues of the day, making her a refreshing and often entertaining fixture in local politics. Unlike many office holders, you always knew where Chapman stood, earning her grudging respect even from her political opponents.
Rebels Without a Pause?
Maila and Aleah from Sarasota
County plans to sell surplus property near the Celery Fields east of I-75 near Fruitville have ignited protests from nearby residents who fear the impact of proposed development of the now vacant land. But the parcels in question are abutted on three sides by industrial/warehouse space. The nearest homes to the west are over a half-mile away, with commercial property filling the gap between; and to the east, where most of the protesters appear to live? Well here it is at least three-quarters of a mile to the nearest home. What’s more, the development that is feared will so heavily impact the area is a restaurant supply store and a recycling center. For comparison, Benderson Development’s Siesta Promenade project under review for the northwest corner of US 41 and Stickney Point Road would add up to 500 condos, a 150 room hotel and 140,000 square feet of retail space to one of the most densely populated and congested areas of the county with perhaps 3,500 homes or more within a three-quarter mile radius. Now everyone has the right to protest development in their backyards...it’s just that when most of the backyards affected are a mile or more away, well, let’s just say you might have a hard sell making your case.
Bumper Sticker of the Day... I’d rather push a Harley than ride a Honda.
Most Creative Use of Tourist Bed Tax Funds... And the winner is...Pasco County for its contribution to a clothing optional 5k run. Known as the “Dare Bare,” the race is held each May in Land O’ Lakes. It is billed as the largest clothing optional race in the nation.
U.S. drops to Seventh on Top Ten List of Best Countries? According to a study by US News and World Report and the Wharton School, the U.S. now ranks behind Switzerland, Canada, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan and Sweden as the world’s ‘best’ country. The criteria? Well, according to the magazine “The 2017 Best Countries ranking methodology relies on data gathered from a proprietary perception survey – conducted after the U.S. presidential election – of more than 21,000 business leaders, informed elites and general citizens.” Note the order of the groups named, with business leaders and ‘elites’ coming before general citizens. Given the high regard with which ‘elites’ and business leaders are currently held, I think a bit of skepticism might be in order here. How about using actual data, like immigration numbers culled from those who actually vote with their feet? I’ll bet if you were to go to any continent on the planet and ask a random sample of ordinary folks what country they would choose to live in, over all others, the U.S. would top the list. But then again, I’m not a cardcarrying member of any ‘informed elite.’
Oh to be Six... My wife recounted a friend’s story of tucking her youngest son in to bed one recent night on the eve of his seventh birthday. “Just think honey,” she said, “this is the last day you’ll be six!” But rather than fueling his excitement over turning seven, her words had the opposite effect. His eyes welled up as he was suddenly saddened by the thought of leaving behind all the awesomeness and glory that comes with being six. Not too worry young man. Being seven is pretty cool too. The story reminded me of a favorite song lyric: “Such a long, long time to be gone, and a short time to be there...” - Jerome (Jerry) Garcia, Robert Hunter, Box of Rain
Visit Florida & Enterprise Florida: Job Magnets or Bureaucratic Boondoggles? The big drama up in Tallahassee as this year’s legislative session gears up is the escalating feud between Governor Scott and House Speaker Richard Corcoran over their differing views on the value of spending taxpayer dollars on efforts to market Florida to tourists and businesses. Scott says the two agencies have helped create 1.2 million jobs statewide since he was elected in 2010. Corcoran scoffs at such claims, calling both agencies a waste of money. You’d never know it, but both these
County’s land development Jerry Hmura and Lori Sciamanna from upstate NY... enjoying a fun day with a rental from CBS Outfitters. Photo submitted by Aledia Tush / CB’s Saltwater Outfitters
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With the update considered a major board priority, Harmer explained, staff will send the commissioners memos to keep them apprised of milestones. Moreover, Harmer pointed out, “Every quarter, you’re going to have an assistant county administrator at
guys have Rs next to their names. Based on the back-and forth, you’d never know they’re on the same team. Another Republican, Rep. Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast was quoted as follows by Politifacts while talking about Enterprise Florida: “We should be taking the hundreds of millions of dollars we’re spending on the privileged few — those few companies that are able to navigate the system — for broad-based tax reform that benefits all businesses, small, medium and large, and if we do that we will continue to be one of the leading states in the country for job growth.” Speaker Corcoran’s House plan would kill Enterprise Florida and dramatically slash Visit Florida’s tourism marketing budget. So who’s right? Scott points to a report from the State Legislature Office of Economic and Demographic Research that concludes Visit Florida generates 2.2 tax dollars for every dollar spent promoting tourism. But you have to wonder, just how are numbers like that arrived at? Someone who might be expected to have some insight on the matter is Professor Michael Hicks, PhD, Director of the Center for Business and Economic Research and a professor of Economics at Ball State University. He recently published a paper on the subject, “An Analysis of State Funded Tourism Promotion.” His conclusion? For every dollar spent, the economy gets 2 pennies back. That’s right, a 98% loss! Talking to WFLA reporter Mark Douglas recently, Hicks had this to say: “Ours is just the latest of a number of studies that say the exact same thing. The raw advertising is just not paying off for taxpayers in Florida or anywhere else.” And as for the fate of Enterprise Florida’s efforts to charm businesses into moving here, well, what about Renner’s point about rewarding the businesses already here with lower taxes? Remember a year or so back when the Sarasota County equivalent of Enterprise Florida tried to lure a large roofing company to the area with promises of tax breaks and other incentives? Area roofing companies were not amused. “What about us?“ was the general gist of their complaint, as they asked the county commission how it is fair to use their tax dollars to bring competitors to their home turf? Commissioners saw the logic of that argument and finally withdrew the offer. No doubt Scott will veto any bills eliminating or slashing the budgets of the two agencies; the real question is whether or not Speaker Corcoran has enough votes to override that veto.
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the podium [during a regular board meeting], presenting the latest status of this.” “Perfect. Thank you,” Moran told him. After making the motion to award the contract to Calvin, Giordano &
Associates, Maio said he wished the firm’s representatives well. “This is maybe a tough timeline,” he added, but “it’s my expectation that we stick to this timeline.”
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DearDonnarose
Q: Dear Donnarose, I’m 21 and have returned to college. I have a boyfriend who’s also in school, but I guess he isn’t your typical clean cut guy. My mother doesn’t approve of him just because of his appearance. And on top of this, she is non-stop with pressuring me to make it through college this time around. She has no idea how much she is making things worse. Thanks for any advice. ~M. G. A: “Live by example, not explanation.“ ~Donnarose Melvin
First, congrats on returning to school. Regarding your mom, intuitively, it looks like she’s pretty much copying what she experienced from her mother. This is all she knows how to be at this time. And I sense your boyfriend is on the right track with his studies and attitude as well. As far as advice, as my quote above indicates, it’s suggested to consider living by example rather than explanation. And the successful outcomes of your actions will be the proof that who you are now, is someone who has grown and has a more mature and positive mindset. Living by example is what tends to be most impactful on getting more relief from parental pressure, and believe it or not, increased acceptance of your choices as well. The reason is, most people tend to be more convinced by action that matches the spoken words, rather than hearing the words by themselves. So instead of explaining your side of the story, practice consistently living it. Show what you mean by your actions. This will not only prove to potentially turn your mom around, but most importantly, you will feel good about yourself. And if you’re consistent with living by example and forgo the need to explain yourself, and really take care of yourself, you’ll notice a rise in your self-worth, selfacceptance, self-confidence, and self-love. And you’ll find your reaction to anyone’s opposing opinions will come from a place of peace rather than frustration. ~ ♥ Q: Dear Donnarose, my parents and I are doctors, and have a family medical practice for many years now. Needless to say, the pressure has been enormous on me, especially working with my parents. At times, I get to the point where I feel like I just want to explode and walk out for good. Please provide any insight, as I surely could use some relief. ~Thank you, M. N. A: “Love is the ability and willingness to allow those that you care for to be what they choose for themselves without any insistence that they satisfy you.” ~ Dr. Wayne Dyer
APRIL 2017
Using a little analogy, when any of us stare at our T.V. or our computer for too long, our eyes and mind tend to get so burned out that we don’t want to look at it anymore. This is similar to what’s happening at your office. Your mind and eyes have been focused in the direction of your parents for so long with too many unsuccessful attempts to please them. As time continues to pass, your dissatisfaction with your parents’ responses to your attempts, build up. And the thought to blow up and walk out resurfaces again and again. The good news is you have managed to take alternative measures. But when a pattern continues to emerge, and the thought to walk out continues to resurface, that says it’s time for alternative measures to your alternative measures. Meaning, the alternative measures you’ve taken need to be tweaked just a bit, so you can be relieved of that pressure build up, and even be rid of future thoughts to walk out. So first, consider allowing yourself to be free of silently insisting that your parents satisfy you by responding exactly the way you desire. This corresponds to one of my favorite Dr. Wayne Dyer quotes I wrote above. When we strongly consider that quote, plus stay in the Light with our intentions, stay true to who we are, and stay connected to our essence- that which is love, it is then we are free. Free, meaning you no longer carry the burden of having to please others or prove yourself to anyone. So it’s suggested to keep your intentions in the light and carry them out with continuous Divine support, but, with a firm detachment to the outcome of anyone’s reaction. Not only will you notice a gradual, more favorable response from your parents, but more importantly, you will notice a positive shift in how you feel about yourself. This in turn, will raise your vibration to a higher level. And that’s where increased self-acceptance, self-confidence, etc., all reside. And even more good news, situations and responses matching your higher vibration will continue to follow. ~ ♥ Donnarose Melvin is a professional intuitive medium, and also does powerful distant energy clearings. Her knowledge from her BA degree in Psychology, along with her natural intuitive gifts, have helped thousands achieve increased peace and success. Please send your questions to: Donnarose1010@gmail.com or Facebook private msg her at Donnarose. She will select questions each month to share with you. Donnarose regrets that unpublished questions cannot be answered individually. If you’d like an energy clearing, or an intuitive reading, please contact Donnarose at the email address above. * Gift Certificates are available!
MarinerWord Search WORD LIST March Madness WORD SEARCH MarinerWord Search Arizona Baylor LIST WORD Butler Arizona Cinncinati Baylor Creighton Butler Duke Cinncinati Florida Creighton Gonzaga Duke Iowa State Florida Kansas Gonzaga Kentucky Iowa State Louisville Maryland Kansas Miami Kentucky Michigan Louisville North Carolina Maryland Notre Dame Miami Oklahoma Michigan Oregon North Carolina UCLA Notre Dame USC Oklahoma Villanova Oregon West Virginia UCLA Wichita State USC Wisconsin Villanova Answers on Page 29 West Virginia
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Siesta Key REAL ESTATE & HOME SECTION ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 46 SAND CASTLES PAGE 43
HOUSE HUNTING PAGE 40 HIGH & LOW OF SOLD PROPERTIES PAGE 36
The Highs and Lows of Properties Sold on Siesta Key
Provided by Key Solutions Real Estate / www.keysolutionsrealestate.com
Following are properties sold on Siesta Key in the last 60 days, providing a snapshot of home values on the Key for both single family homes and condominiums. HIGHEST PRICED SINGLEFAMILY PROPERTY: 95 Columbus Blvd: Sold For $2,500,000 Located in the Mira Mar Beach neighborhood, just a two minute stroll to Siesta beach or to Siesta Village. This stunning two-story, three bedroom, three bath single family home is surrounded by lush foliage and a privacy wall with a gated entrance. A wood burning fireplace, marble floors, great room, living room/dining room combo, volume ceilings, granite countertops, stainless steel appliances, bonus room and loft are some of the luxuries you’ll find in this 2,560 square foot home. The outdoor amenities are just as stunning and includes an in ground pool with attached spa located in a private courtyard surrounded by mature trees, porticos, and an outdoor shower. The HIGHEST PRICED CONDO: Midnight Pass Rd, #G-101: Sold For $1,131,000 The view speaks for itself in this fashionably renovated 2/2 at the desirable Palm Bay Club. This tenth floor unit is situated on the premier southwest corner of the tower and boasts miles of spectacular water and beach views from the open concept living and dining room. The renovation, completed by a custom builder in 2015, will make you want to entertain in the modern, comfortable space. Breakfast bar and custom cabinets maximize storage and seating space. The two bedrooms also maximize comfort and sleeping space, offering the same gorgeous view for owners and guests alike. The second bedroom features a custom double bunk bed and both bathrooms have had luxury renovations. All
LOWEST PRICED SINGLE-FAMILY PROPERTY: Lyric Ln: Sold For $352,555 This single- family house sold as a Siesta Key fixer upper with great opportunity situated on a 150x116 lot and on a peaceful deadend street with nice homes. The home has 3 bedrooms and 2 full bathrooms. The sale of this property came out to $159.24 a square foot. Courtesy of Michael Saunders.
sale of this property came to $976.56 a square foot. Courtesy of Premier Sarabay Real Estate
LOWEST PRICED CONDO: 5955 Midnight Pass Rd, #4E Sold For $220,000
of this and the sought-after amenities and rental opportunity at the Palm Bay Club, this unit is one of a kind. The sale on this unit came out to $870.00 a square foot. Courtesy of Michael Saunders.
This fully updated condo at Sea Club II allows you to retreat to your own private corner of Siesta Key. Perfectly situated in the center of the Key, this tropical waterfront oasis offers deeded beach access, heated pool, fishing pier and boat docks & lifts. This spacious 1 bedroom condo features a new kitchen with granite counters, quaint dining area and living room. Fully remodeled bathroom with vanity and gorgeous tiled shower & tub is steps away from the large bedroom with walk in closet. Slider opens to a large patio perfect for those balmy Florida evenings where barbecuing is a must and relaxing is more than a state of mind. This property has on-site Management and makes a fantastic investment property. The sale came out to $421.46 a square foot. Courtesy of Ascendia Real Estate
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Siesta Key Round-Up
APRIL 2017
Another commissioner with a sense of humor
The island’s sushi hibachi steakhouse Jo-To Restaurant in the Village will close at the end of March 2017. Patrons discovered the news by reading a note left on the front door of the restaurant. Mark Smith of Smith Architects is
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additional parking is needed. Smith stated that the property will be renovated inside and out. The request to zoning includes opening up the front of the building adding two outdoor patios with major renovations inside. Syprett and Lancer own the real estate that house Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar, Gidget’s, SKOB and the Sandal Factory.
Jo-To Japanese Restaurant to close
Island Visitor Publishing, LLC
working with Siesta Key property owners Jim Syprett and Jay Lancer to purchase and renovate the 43 year old building. The current property’s patron area is 852 square feet. Smith is working with the county to verify the property is grandfathered under the Siesta Key Overlay District for a restaurant, so no
As one of the guest speakers at the Siesta Key Association’s annual breakfast meeting in March, Commissioner Alan Maio showed off his sense of humor before providing a rundown on county accomplishments over the previous 12 months. After announcing that it was his third time speaking at that particular Siesta Key Association (SKA) event, he told the crowd of about 145, “I have done everything that [Vice President] Catherine Luckner has asked me to do for four years.” Yet, he
continued, she made it clear her first and most important job at the meeting that morning was to introduce representatives of the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office who were in attendance. “Catherine, your phone calls will be returned in a little bit of a delayed manner until this time next year,” Maio added, drawing plenty of laugher. On a serious aside, he explained that his son is a deputy who often works on the Key, so he has the utmost respect for the officers and the agency. Maio then provided everyone his email address at the county: amaio@scgov.net and welcomed people to contact him. “I get about 125 [emails] every day,” he added. “I read every single one,” making sure to forward them to the appropriate staff members. Before he won election to the board in 2014, he told the audience, he interacted with county employees for about three decades. “I built everything in the world; pulled every possible permit, I think. And I have the secret backroom numbers for every one of these [staff
members].” Nonetheless, as he has pointed out during County Commission meetings, because Sarasota is a charter county, a commissioner can direct only two people on staff to do anything: the county administrator and the county attorney. County Administrator Tom Harmer reminds him of that, Maio joked. Nonetheless, “we have fixed an awful lot of things through these emails [around the county],” Maio continued, “especially on Siesta.” And while both Maio and Harmer were prepared to answer questions from the audience that morning, by the time Harmer completed his remarks - following Maio’s address — and longtime SKA membership director Deet Jonker was honored for his service to the nonprofit, new SKA President Harold Ashby pointed out that only 3 minutes remained. (Harmer had joked that Maio had asked him to be sure his comments ran long enough, in an effort to prevent any Q&A period.) Continued on page 42
Paradise Awaits... E IC ED! R P UC D RE
322 Island Circle Sarasota, FL
Beaches, boating and bistros! Live the island lifestyle in this spacious 4 BR, 4 BA house located on desirable Palm Island. Recently renovated with new kitchen, new master BR and master BA. Lounge in the heated pool and spa. Perfect home or investment property .
959,000
$
1122 Horizon View Drive, Sarasota, FL
Deeded Beach Access!!! Your feet will be in the Gulf of Mexico in 60 seconds. This immaculate pool home features large rooms and volume ceilings. Lovely oak Floors and stylish tile will dazzle you. 3 BR, 3.5 BA with LL bonus area for generational living. A truly unique find!
959,000
$
418 Island Circle, Sarasota, FL
Single Family Home, 3 BR, 2.5 BA Key West Style Grand Canal home on Siesta Key. Built in 2005. Huge lower level bonus area, pool shower, 4-car garage. Open floor plan. Custom touches, must see!
1,415,000
$
LE G SA DIN N PE
E IC D! PR UCE D RE
389 Island Circle, Sarasota, FL
Single Family Home, 4 BR, 4.5 BA, Private Pool, Corner Lot, 1 Car Attached Garage, Located on Palm Island on Siesta Key, A Short Walk To The Beach, Wood and Marble Flooring Throughout, Low Maintenance Yard, Private and Secluded
779,000
$
5206 Winding Way, Sarasota, FL
Great Siesta Key home just a short walk to the sugary sands of Siesta Key Beach. Full remodeled with new stucco, paint and custom woodwork on the exterior. Brand new A/C unit, new stainless steel appliances. Bonus glassed-in Florida room is a pure joy for relaxation.
419,900
$
5350 Calle Florida, Sarasota, FL
Currently the lowest priced duplex close to the beach. 2 BR, 1 BA on each side. Possibilities abound on this property with room for a pool and low maintenance landscaping,. Rent out one side and use the other, or rent both sides for a great return on your investment.
Tropical Sands Dan D. Miller 941-376-7442 Licensed Real Estate Professional
ddm1@comcast.net
500,000
$
Service. Integrity. Results.
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Free Ride open-air trolley Over the weekend, Jacobsen said, Beach Bazaar distributed copies of the schedule to visitors. “We probably gave out a thousand [to] a lot of families, a lot of kids — a lot of people interested in it.” That demand proved itself on March 20, with more than 1,028 passengers riding the Breeze on the first day, Kendra Keiderling, SCAT’s marketing, outreach and customer service manager reported. In an email to Siesta Chamber members, she wrote that the number was “beyond my expectations …” “Woohoo!!! Great job everyone!” Ann Frescura, executive director of the Chamber, responded. The Breeze will operate seven days a week from 8 a.m. to midnight, Burke told the audience during the ceremony, and SCAT wants to do all it can to promote the service. The trolley also will run on Memorial Day and Independence Day. The goal is for the Breeze to circulate every 20 minutes during peak hours (10 a.m. to 6 p.m.) and every 30 minutes during the remaining operating hours, Keiderling said. SCAT stops where Breeze passengers may embark and disembark will have trolley emblems on them, Keiderling noted, but people also will be able to “flag down” the trolley on Midnight Pass Road, south of the Stickney Point Road intersection. The Breeze will stop at the closest safe place for those riders to board, SCAT staff has said. Riders will be able to transfer from the trolley to SCAT buses on Routes 11 and 33, Assistant County Administrator Mark Cunningham pointed out during the March 20 ceremony. Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Chair Mark Smith had hoped the trolley would be more visible in Siesta Village, he said during a brief interview on March 20. “I’m making my suggestions known,” he added. “It is important that people see it come into the Village.” The more visitors become aware of the trolley, he pointed out, the greater the demand will be. SNL asked Burke about the fact that the Breeze will make just the single stop in front of Siesta Market before heading onto Ocean Boulevard and then west to Beach Road. He explained the reasoning for that has been “the congestion with the people and the cars [in the Village], so we’ve got to factor in the safety issue first and foremost.” Nonetheless, he stressed, this is a pilot program; therefore, he and his staff are still trying to figure out whether they can comply with the need
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Continued from cover story
Smith cited for greater visibility. During his comments as part of the ceremony, Burke pointed out that SCAT staff worked with the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) to make funding for the Breeze possible. Commissioner Maio — another speaker during the event — noted that Burke and his staff “did some very creative things with FDOT to get this trolley here.” A memo to the County Commission in advance of its Feb. 28 award of the $592,191.60 contract to Ride Right Transit LLC of Lake St. Louis, Mo., said FDOT and the county each will cover 50% of the cost.
Details about the service The Breeze will replace SCAT Route 10, which was launched in the summer of 2014 to complement Route 11 in serving Siesta Key. Members of the Siesta Chamber and the Siesta Key Village Association (SKVA) — before the Chamber absorbed the latter at the end of 2016 — complained that SCAT did not advertise Route 10 sufficiently, which was one reason it proved unsuccessful. SKVA members also long had emphasized the need for an open-air circulator because they believed it would be in keeping with the island atmosphere and, therefore, far more attractive to visitors than a regular bus. Because of “consistently low ridership,” the Feb. 28 county staff memo explained to the county commission, SCAT implemented changes to Route 10 in November 2015. Nonetheless, the memo continued, the bus service still exhibited “poor performance for several reasons.” One of them, the memo reported, was that “the type of vehicle used was not desired by the passengers residing [in] and visiting the area.” In an interview with SNL after the Feb. 28 bid award, Russell Matthes, a longtime SKVA officer, said of the trolley, “It’s definitely more rider-friendly,” and more inviting to visitors. “We think that alone will stimulate ridership.” During his March 20 remarks, Maio joked, “My number of emails will be reduced by 20% because this trolley has now started. You have a very active, intense lobbying group here.” Maio encouraged the Chamber members and other business owners “to get as many people as possible to ride this for six months” to demonstrate to FDOT the need to keep the Breeze rolling after the pilot program ends.
Commissioner Alan Maio and SCAT Director Rocky Burke at the Breeze launch March 20 2017
Alana Tomasso Russell Matthes and Wendall Jacobsen wave as the Siesta Key Breeze prepares to leave Siesta Village March 20 2017
Assistant County Administrator Cunningham pointed out that the trolley “is a one-of-a-kind in Sarasota as of this moment.” And even though it is an open-air vehicle, it does have air conditioning.
Burke said. Keiderling planned to be back on the Key that week, “passing out more stickers and giveaways” to promote the service, she wrote in her March 21 email.
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Construction could begin this summer on first new Siesta Key condominium development since 2009 Continued from cover story Yet, as opposition mounted from residents of the adjoining Windward Passage condominium complex, the initial enthusiasm for the idea ebbed. In early September 2012, Johnson stated that the foundation never gained the support it needed to forge ahead with the proposal. Price was another factor, she pointed out at the time. The owner reportedly was seeking between $3.5 million and $4 million, and everyone the foundation contacted “thought that the price was too high,” Johnson said. In August 2016, a new proposal for the land emerged: a six-unit luxury condominium complex called Oceane. If all goes as planned, the project will break ground in June or July, Peter Laughlin, a broker associate with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty, told SNL. “We’re well underway with the final construction plan.” This will be the first new condominium development on Siesta Key since 2009, he pointed out. One unit has been reserved already, Laughlin added. “It’s a great opportunity.” On her website, SaraSellsSarasota.com, Realtor Sara Leicht writes of Oceane, “You will enjoy 374 feet of private prime Gulf front water with a view of the Sarasota downtown skyline and still [be] within walking distance [of] Siesta Key Village.” Sarasota County staff approved the construction site plan on Nov. 30, 2016, Mark Loveridge, manager of the Land Development Services Division for the county, told SNL in a March 10 telephone interview. However, a building permit will have to be issued before dirt can be turned, he noted. The developer is Crossgate Partners LLC, “a private real estate investment and development firm,” which built Bay Street Village and Town Center in Osprey; IOS by the Bay on Biscayne Bay in Miami; and Madeira Bay in Madeira Beach. The architect is Mark Sultana of the DSDG firm in Sarasota, Laughlin added. On Jan. 13, Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office records show that MK Siesta Property LLC sold the three parcels that comprise the Oceane site to CG Oceane LLC for $4,785,000. According to the state’s Division of Corporations’ records, CG Oceane is an entity that Crossgate Partners established just days before the closing. Crossgate is based in Suwanee, Ga., the registration application shows. MK Siesta Property LLC was managed by Kevin D. Cogan of Louisville, Ky., who previously planned to develop the land, according to county records. In 2016, the staff of Property Appraiser Bill Furst valued the three Oceane parcels at a total of $4,083,000. Together, they comprise 38,754 square feet; an acre is 43,560 square feet.
Project details
The four bedroom/4.5 bathroom Oceane condominiums — which also will have one “flex room” — are listed from $3,873,000 to $4,460,000, according to a pre-construction pricing sheet. Each has been designed with “smart home automation, green building standards, expansive waterfront terraces and the highest-quality finishes,” plus an enclosed three-car garage and private
poolside cabana, Laughlin added. Asked whether he feels the controversy over the proposal to dredge Big Sarasota Pass to renourish South Lido Key has affected sales of the units, Laughlin replied that he has not seen any problems linked to that plan of the City of Sarasota and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. He indicated “a lot of activity,” with people interested in the development. If the dredging is allowed to proceed, he said, “it’s not going to have that big an impact.” According to the site plan approved by county Planning and Development Services Department staff, the main building will encompass 10,621 square feet; cabanas, 586 square feet; and porches, decks, a pool and the parking lot, 7,956 square feet, for a total of 19,163 square feet. The complex will cover 29.2% of the land, the document adds; the impervious
part of the construction will be 49.9% of the total. The Residential Multi-Family 2 zoning of the 0.88-acre site would allow 7.92 units instead of the six planned on three levels, the document notes. The physical address is 4750 Ocean Blvd.
No variance needed Unlike builders of other recent new waterfront structures on Siesta and Casey keys, Crossgate Partners has not applied for a Coastal Setback Variance for Oceane; it did not need to do so. In March 2005, the County Commission granted one to a pair of developers for the property, county records show. The resolution the board approved says the petitioners sought the variance for the demolition of existing multi-family residential structures, with plans for “a new pile-supported, three-story, multi-
family residential structure, swimming pool, pool deck, cabanas/pavilion, stormwater retention area and the addition of approximately 2,400 cubic yards of fill to be brought on-site …” It added, “All proposed construction will be located a maximum of 44.3 feet seaward of the Sarasota Barrier Island Pass Twenty-Year Hazard Line” on the land fronting Big Pass. “The site is very tight,” Loveridge of the county Land Development Services Division told SNL. In 2005, the petitioners were Icon Properties - Ocean Boulevard LLC and JDG Properties - Siesta LLC. Both, based in Louisville, Ky., are inactive, state Division of Corporations records show. Their last annual reports were filed in March 2009. The principal manager of each was Kevin D. Cogan of MK Siesta Property LLC, the records say.
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• TUSCAN INSPIRED MASTERPIECE ON PALM ISLAND: $779,000 389 Island Circle, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4110340. 4,134 sq. ft. single family home. 4 bedrooms, 4 ½ baths, roof top pool, private spacious in-law/guest apartment with separate entrance. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 • KEY WEST STYLE GRAND CANAL HOME ON SIESTA KEY: $1,415,000 418 Island Circle, Siesta Key, FL. MLS#A3990080 3BD/3BA. Lushly landscaped tropical lot with Tiki Bar in the pool/spa area. Dan Miller, Re/ Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 • HOME ON CANOPIED ROAD: $419,900 5206 Winding Way, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4163466 Fully remodeled home just a short walk to the sugary sands of Siesta Key beach. Single family home located in a canopied
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House Hunting Siesta Key to Longboat Key neighborhood with new stucco paint and custom woodwork on exterior. New A/C unit and stainless steel appliances. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 • DEEDED BEACH ACCESS: $959,000 1122 Horizon View Drive, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4163952 This immaculate pool home features large rooms and volume ceilings. Lovely oak floors and stylish tile will dazzle you. 3BD/3/5BA with LL bonus area for general living. Dan Miller, Re/ Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 • RECENTLY RENOVATED PALM ISLAND HOME: $959,000. 322 Island Circle, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4170620 Spacious 4 BR, 4 BA house. Recently renovated with new kitchen, new master BR and master BA. Lounge in the heated pool and spa. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 • LOWEST PRICED DUPLEX CLOSE TO THE BEACH: $500,000 5350 Calle Florida, Siesta Key, FL. MLS# A4169144 2 BR, 1 BA on each side. Possibilities abound on this property with room for a pool and low maintenance landscaping. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442 • 1696 PINE HARRIER DR, THE LANDINGS, $775,000: MLS #A4168186 Family home with 4Bd/ 3BA,
Caged Lanai and Pool. Judy Greene/Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker. 941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941-266-4873 (Tara) • 5430 EAGLES POINT CIR #203, THE LANDINGS $787,000: MLS #4162162 3 BD plus Den / 4.5 BA with private garage. Spacious floor plan. Judy Greene/Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker. 941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941-266-4873 (Tara) • 1695 STARLING DR, LANDINGS VILLA $499,999: MLS #A4163378 3BD/2.5BA Villa at Eagles Point- spacious and bright- master downstairs/2 beds and a loft up. Judy Greene/Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker, 941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941-266-4873 (Tara) • 1734 Starling Dr., LANDINGS COACH HOUSE $315,000: MLS #A4171338 2BD/2BA ground floor condo with lake view. Judy Greene/ Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker, 941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941266-4873 (Tara) • PEPPERTREE BAY Direct bay views from this fabulous 2/2 in sought-after Peppertree community. Tastefully, turnkey furnished. Private garage. MLS# A4149092, $590,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.
OPEN HOUSE
Sundays: March – May 1-4PM 5408 Eagle’s Point Circle, in The Landings Spacious 4th Floor Condo 3 Bedrooms / 2 Bathrooms Commanding View of Roberts Bay and Intracoastal Waterway
• HARBOUR TOWNE YACHT CLUB Minutes’ walk to Siesta Beach with deeded 40’ boat dock with 10k lift. 3/3 on 2 floors with garage and abundant storage. Beautifully renovated. MLS# A4167104, $699,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-5443299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186 • 840 SIESTA KEY CIRCLE Lovely old-Florida style 3 - 3 1/2 home on large corner lot. Abundant glass doors and windows bring the outdoors in! Large pool. Boat dock (minutes to the ICW) with 10k lift. 2 car garage. A short walk to Siesta Beach and Village. MLS#A4149391, $1,150,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-5443299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. • LIDO AMBASSADOR Direct Beachfront community just 10 minutes’ walk to St. Armand’s Circle and a short drive to downtown Sarasota. Large 1 - 1 1/2 unit beautifully renovated and furnished. Move right in for season. Beachfront pool, clubhouse, fitness, etc. Low HOA fees. MLS #A4174292, $370,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941400-4186. • EXCELSIOR Exceptionally renovated and designed unit in coveted Excelsior complex. Beautifully furnished 2/2. Resort style property with beach access just across the street. Elevator building. Buy now and enjoy for season. $549,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186. • DOLPHIN BAY The ultimate 2/2 in over 1900 square feet of living space. Exceptional property with split floor plan, each bedroom with private bath. Large kitchen with sit-in area and expansive living/ dining space. Spacious lanai with great views of the ICW. Garage.
Pool, clubhouse, tennis, and day dock. Short walk to Siesta Beach. $849,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941400-4186. • TURNKEY FURNISHED TOWNHOME This 3BD/2BA townhome, is totally updated. The gated waterfront community features fabulous recreational facilities, a private boat slip, garage, and is just a short walk to the beach. 1267 Dockside PL #214, Siesta Key, $699,000 MLS #A4155386 Key Solutions Real Estate, (941)894-1255 • SPECTACULAR BAYFRONT TOWNHOME This 2,326 square foot 3 bed, 3 bath Condo with Gourmet kitchen and lots of upgrades has an attached garage, deeded 25’ boat slip with new lift, and is just a short walk to Siesta Key Beach. 1333 Dockside PL # 223, Siesta Key, $979,000 MLS # A4157478 Key Solutions Real Estate, (941)894-1255 • LUXURIOUS BEACHFRONT CONDO Located in the fabulous Crescent Siesta Key, this 2 BD/2 BA condo offers a view from your sunny lanai with outdoor kitchen. Community offers 2 pools, spa, fitness center, outdoor grills, and convenient walking to everything South Siesta Village has to offer. 6512 Midnight Pass Rd #406, Siesta Key, $1,249,000 MLS #A4171720 Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255 • JUST MINUTES TO SIESTA BEACH This 3 bed, 3 bath condo with garage has a deep water boat basin with private dock for 40’ boat. Located in Harbour Town, beautifully landscaped and features heated pool with spa, tennis court, pickle ball courts, and clubhouse. 1251 Dockside Pl #210, Siesta Key, $699,000. MLS #A4167104 Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255.
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Handmade Antique Rugs Bought and Sold
Florida’s Largest Selection of Antique Oriental and Chinese Rugs for 45 Years
Mosby oriental rugs
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FEBRUARY
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Siesta Sand
APRIL 2017
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Key Solutions Presents BLVD in Virtual Reality Always on the leading edge of innovation, Key Solutions Real Estate is doing something no one else in this area has done, using virtual reality to put potential residents inside of their unit right from the sales studio. Key Solutions has partnered with Sarasota based IMERZA to incorporate a one-of-kind virtual tour experience showcasing these stunning residences, unlike anything Sarasota has seen before. With IMERZA’s cutting edge virtual reality technology, buyers can tour, design and decide to buy with confidence. Real-time virtual walkthroughs featuring unparalleled graphics, perspectives and the ability to make real-time upgrades specific to a client’s style allow buyers to see the space as their own. Fixtures, finishes, furnishings and more can be changed at the touch of a button. Homebuyers are able to compose an immersive experience of their new sanctuary and snap a photo for effortless sharing. “Key Solutions Real Estate is very excited to partner with IMERZA to create our customer’s future reality, virtually,” said Keith Redding of Key Solutions Real Estate. “Combining this unique technology with the innovative tower residences of BLVD, Key Solutions Real Estate will provide an incredible home buying experience never before seen in Sarasota.” When asked about the project, Redding said, “BLVD is unlike anything the Sarasota market has to offer. With the majority of other
downtown condo buildings only offering 1500-2200 square feet, many single-family homeowners looking to enjoy the vibrant Downtown lifestyle have been hesitant to consider condo living. BLVD satisfies a huge demand for space and luxury with the smallest floor plans offering 3500 square feet of living area. The amenities are spectacular and will offer residents features not available in any other complex in our area.” Ranging from 3,500sf to 5400sf, BLVD’s 49 residences will feature large wrap around balconies, and private, zero-horizon pools in select residences, to capture the city views and expansive sights of Sarasota Bay. Spacious designs offer some of the largest floor plans in Downtown Sarasota. Two select penthouse floorplans, along with an unprecedented amenities program, makes BLVD the most exciting offering to be introduced to the downtown scene this year. Future residents can select from four sizable floorplans and five one-of-a-kind plans on the 5th floor amenity level, the 6th floor and penthouse levels. An onsite, high end dining and entertainment venue encapsulates the sought after nightlife of Sarasota without ever having to leave the building. With just 49 residences in total, priced from $1.5 to $2.9M plus two penthouse units with pricing to be released, smart investors are getting a first look at BLVD’s plans as they are just now being developed. Located in the highly soughtafter Rosemary District, BLVD residents will live in the walkable
Siesta Key Round-Up Ashb y t h e n r e m i n d e d t h e members that they can send questions or concerns to the SKA officers at any time by using the email address info@ siestakeyassociation.com. People also are welcomed to call the SKA at 364-4880, Ashby said.
Speaking of the Sheriff’s Office … If you think you spotted previous Sheriff’s Office substation chief Sgt. Scott Osborne on Siesta in March, do not worry that you had overexposure to the sun — or imbibed too much of a certain type of beverage. Osborne indeed was helping out with the enhanced Spring Break patrols on the island. In 2015, Sheriff Tom Knight transferred Osborne to North County to serve as a day-shift supervisor. Sgt. Jason Mruczek took Osborne’s place in the fall of 2015. Osborne held the post on the Key for a decade.
A special honor Just before the close of the annual SKA breakfast meeting, new President Harold Ashby asked Vice President Catherine Luckner to return to the podium to recognize Deet Jonker, whom she called “a super volunteer
downtown waterfront and the vibrant arts & cultural district of downtown Sarasota. With a walkability score of 96, residents are always just steps away from world-class entertainment, museums, art galleries and restaurants. Sarasota boasts a vast array of cultural destinations and experiences that highlight Sarasota Bayfront living. “We saw a great opportunity for this development to act as the gateway to the Rosemary District and Downtown. With world class amenities, dining, size, luxury, and the most spectacular 360 degree views from the roof deck pool, BLVD will leave a lasting impression for residents and guests alike,” according to Redding. For those thinking that this is just another condominium project downtown, just stop in the virtual reality sales studio to see the
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Continued from cover story
difference. “You can truly get a feel for the size and layouts of the units while seeing what your view will be. Trying to envision what your unit will look like from the 16th floor by simply looking at a floor plan and building is extremely difficult for most of us. With the virtual reality program we created, all of the guesswork has been eliminated and buyers will have confidence in knowing what they are purchasing.” The developer of BLVD Sarasota is quite familiar with the downtown landscape. Core Development Inc. is best known for developing the Ritz Carlton Sarasota and Ritz Carlton Beach Club as well as Concession Residences and Golf Club. Knowing the attention to detail and innovative planning that Core put into those developments, BLVD is going to be another landmark building. By staggering
the floorplans, the design will give the building character and not the flat front look as many of the other buildings in the area. “Seeing the proposed building come alive in virtual reality is beyond impressive. Being able to provide this visual aide to the neighbors and businesses surrounding the location allow all to rest assured that careful detail has been paid to maximize the setbacks and minimize the total structure size as to what is allowed on the property. BLVD will be appreciated by everyone who sees it” said Redding.
year, with four or five people, the report said.
why not enjoy them at Easter? Have yourselves a Very British Easter folks - a real trip “Across the Pond” - without the airfare and in much better weather. 4 &20 Pasty Company is located at 5638 Swift Road, Sarasota FL 34231 Tel: (941) 927-1421 www.4and20PastyCompany.com
The BLVD Virtual Reality Sales Studio is now open 7-days-a-week and ready to show this incredible innovation to prospective residents. Contact info: Keith Redding | 941-894-4216 | Keith@keysolutionsre.com (Advertorial)
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extraordinaire” for the SKA and other organizations. “For many years,” she continued, “he was our membership chair.” Sadly, because of health concerns, he had to stop attending meetings, she pointed out. Still, the SKA kept his name on its list of board members as if he still were serving, she said. “Today’s our day to celebrate all the things he did for us … and to thank him for guiding us.” She presented him an award inscribed with the following: “Our gratitude, forever, Deet Jonker, for your 15 years of service as Membership Chairman. You made it happen.” Ashby and Luckner also pointed out that in his storied career before retirement, Jonker produced the 1984 Winter Olympics — held in Sarajevo, Yugoslavia — for ABC and that he won an Emmy for his work. Jonker’s wife, Lynn, accompanied him to the annual meeting.
Siesta Key Chamber call for volunteers The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is updating and expanding their volunteer database and is now accepting applications. Volunteers are needed throughout the year for a variety of duties including the Visitors Center, events (Egg Hunt, Golf Outing, 4th of July, Halloween, Crystal Classic, Holiday Parade, etc.), special projects, and delivery of guides, maps, posters, etc. Requests for student community service hours and intern requirements will be also be considered. If you are interested in becoming a volunteer and to request an application form, please contact
Mia Leone, Visitor Center & Volunteer Manager, at the Chamber office at 941-349-3800 or email her at mia@siestakeychamber.com. Once accepted, volunteers will be added to the database and alerted as opportunities occur. Your support and community service is sincerely appreciated!
Fire Station 13 stats During the Feb. 21 meeting of the Siesta Key Condominium Council, members heard a report on the activity at Sarasota County’s Fire Station 13, located just south of the public beach, at 1170 Beach Road. Of the 62,774 calls the Fire Department recorded countywide last year, Station 13 handled 1,564, or about 2.5% of them. It probably is no surprise that the majority of calls came in March, which typically is the peak month of tourist season. However, June just appeared to have edged out July for the No. 2 spot by month. The vast majority of the calls — 1,232 — were EMS-related: vehicle accidents and medical emergencies, for example, the report showed. Of the total EMS calls, 119 involved incidents at Siesta Public Beach, the report noted, and 73 were related to vehicle accidents. Slightly more than one-fifth of all the calls — 332 — were in response to fires, the report said. Fire alarms in general and calls about hazardous materials were included in that number, the report added. The Key had 37 fires, but only four involved structures, and Station 13 personnel put out the latter, the data showed. The mean response time was 5:48 minutes, the report added. The station is staffed 24 hours a day, 365 days a
Meet Commissioner Mike Moran The guest speaker for the April Siesta Key Association monthly meeting is County Commissioner Mike Moran. The residents of Siesta Key have the opportunity to meet the new commissioner. The meeting will be April 6 at St. Boniface Episcopal Church 5615 Midnight Pass Road at 4:30 PM.
Celebrate Easter as a Brit A Very British Easter is something quite special - Easter Eggs, Hot Cross Buns, Easter Bunnies, even Morris dancing. 4 & 20 Pasty Company does none of those. They are in Florida after all. But for 14 years they’ve been celebrating the start of Spring in their own very special fashion. They have all the makings for a Great British & Irish Easter Breakfast ... Pork Banger Sausages, Back Bacon, Black (& White) Puddings, Heinz Baked Beans, sliced English bread, & HP or Daddie’s Sauces. Just get the eggs, mushrooms & tomatoes from the Farmer’s Market. Easter Eccles Cakes & British Scones work too - especially with their imported British Jams, Marmalades & Clotted Cream. They’re taking orders for scrumptious Pork Pies, Large Gala Pies (the Pork Pies with an Egg in the middle) and Cocktail Packs of Sausage Rolls galore. They’ve also received some new imported Brit chocolate varieties. And have made a special run of homemade Easter Mince Pie Puffs ... so fantastically popular at Christmas,
A new book Long time Siesta Chamber members Bob and Eileen Parkinson of Trident Communications are launching their new book, Be As Good As You Think You Are, they and the Chamber have announced. On March 15, Barnes & Noble in Sarasota held a book-signing event to celebrate the publication, a news release said. “Everyone wants to be a good public speaker,” the release continued. “Be As Good As You Think You Are is an exploration of a wide variety of experiences, skills, and techniques that will guide readers in developing strong behaviors that form and strengthen their personal professional presence,” the release adds.
New Members for the SK Chamber Feb. 15-March 15, 2017 The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce would like all to welcome the following new members: • Our House on Siesta Key: 89 Avenida Messina, Siesta Key. • Sarasota Fishing Fleet: 509 N. Tamiami Trail. • Venice, Sand Dollar Boat Rentals: 7660 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite C, Sarasota. • Island Time Rentals, LLC: 7006 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key.
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Sand Castles
Serenity at Dolphin Bay
Island Visitor Publishing, LLC
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By Roger Drouin
Dolphin Bay is a gated community of 52 units within three buildings located on the Intracoastal Waterway and Little Sarasota Bay. “The community really maximizes the serenity of being on the water,” says realtor Bob Ruiz, of Key Solutions Real Estate. The panoramic water views provide for nature views by day and the lights of south Siesta and the city of Sarasota by night. “All condos have lovely water views from the back of the unit,” said Ruiz. Building 1240, the first building upon entering the community, has views of the marina and Intracoastal Waterway. Building 1260 has long range southern views of the ICW, and building 1280 sits directly on the waterway — with water views to both the north and the south. Inside the three buildings, units offer a typical square footage for a waterfront condo. “One of the newer water-front developments on Siesta, 2 and 3 bedroom units are unusually spacious and feature higher ceilings, stylish finishes, fire sprinklers, among other features,” Ruiz told Siesta Sand. The two-bedroom, two-bath units are over 1,900 square feet, and are easily converted to three bedrooms by enclosing a portion of the very large living/dining room combination, Ruiz said. There is a separate eat-in dining area off the kitchen and a huge lanai, so there is plenty of alternate dining space if a bedroom is added. The threebedroom, three bath units, meanwhile, are expansive at 2,200 square feet. Many of the units have been renovated by high-end remodelers, noted Cisco Ruiz, a representative for Progressive Community Management, Inc., which oversees the community’s management. Just one mile north of the Stickney Point bridge, the community is within walking distance to Siesta Village to the north and mid-Key shops and restaurants to the south. Large laundry space in units and under-building garage are two practical amenities that owners take advantage of. “The in-unit laundry room is a great feature,” said Bob Ruiz, of Key Solutions Real Estate. “Many of the condos on Siesta, built in the 70s, do not have private washer/ dryers. Dolphin Bay affords a large laundry room with built-in cabinetry and plenty of space for vacuums, broom, mops, etc.” The under-building locking garage is another unique feature at Dolphin Bay. Every owner has a locking garage with remote controlled door. Additional parking is readily available for families with two cars and for guests, Ruiz added. The community was built in 1997 and 1998. Turnover has been low, and some original owners are now selling their units, noted Cisco Ruiz, the property manager, no relationship to Ruiz, the realtor. The condo’s day dock makes boating and kayaking easily accessible — and the pool, clubhouse, and har-tru tennis courts make the community feel like a resort, Ruiz added. The tennis courts, swimming pool/spa and the walking distance to the beach are favorites among residents, said Ruiz, the property manager.
Recent listings: • There are four current listings, including: A three bedroom, three bath unit with 2,200 square feet listed for $1,199,000, or $545 a square foot. The unit has been completely redone. All 3 bathrooms and kitchen have been completely updated over the past two years including new appliances, according to MLS listing information. The lanai was also updated as well six months ago to include track lighting, new fan, and extra outlets. The unit also features hardwood floors in two of three bedrooms, plus custom built-ins in the office/bedroom and den, and a new air conditioning unit. Slate and brick accents throughout provide an elegant touch as does the hand painted mural in the master bath. The only two bedroom listed for sale, is listed for $849,000 by Ruiz and Sheri Ruiz, of Key Solutions Real Estate. The 1,915 square foot unit is listed for $849,000, or $443 a square foot. This new listing includes high ceilings, tile throughout, crown molding in the living, dining and master bedroom spaces, as well as plantation shutters and fire sprinklers. According to MLS listing information, the living/dining room features a wet bar and opens onto a large screened lanai that easily serves as additional dining space or living area. More outdoor living at the front of the unit in a fenced and gated patio/courtyard, allows for grilling. The large master bedroom opens onto the lanai on one side - and the master bath with dual vanities, Jacuzzi tub, walk-in shower, and private toilet. • Four units have sold recently in Dolphin Bay. On the higher end, a three bedroom, three-bath penthouse unit, with 2,200 square feet sold for $1,100,000 in August, 2016. The sale came to $500 a square foot. The recently-renovated penthouse was originally listed for $1,249,000. The unit features a custom kitchen with quartz counter tops, Sub-Zero refrigerator, and Jenn-Air induction cooktop, according to MLS listing information. The unit also includes a sanctuary master suite bathroom with dual vanity areas, quartz counters and a pebbled shower with unique fixtures. A three bedroom unit with two-and-a-half baths sold for $1 M in October, 2016, or $400 a square foot. This updated southeast corner unit features crown molding, diagonal tile floors, an open island kitchen with Zodiaq quartz countertops and breakfast bar. The versatile floor plan allows for a dining room off the kitchen or off the great room. Master suite also capitalizes on the bay and waterway views and includes a big walk-in closet and updated bathroom. The third bedroom (or den) features French doors, and a Murphy bed for visiting guests. A two-bedroom, two bath unit, with 1,915 square feet, sold for $775,000 in May, 2016. The sale came to $396 a square foot. The unit has waterway views. The large, coveted southern-exposure lanai has bay and marina views and sliding glass doors for year-round use, according to the MLS.
Making Things Happen on Siesta Key...BOB and SHERI RUIZ
840 Siesta Key Circle
Peppertree Bay
Excelsior
Dolphin Bay
minutes boat ride to the ICW. 3 -3 1/12 with pool and 2 car garage. Large corner lot.
Direct bay views from this fabulous 2/2 in sought-after Peppertree community. Tastefully, turnkey furnished. Private garage. Beach access just across the street.
Exceptionally renovated and designed unit in coveted Excelsior complex. 2/2 sold furnished - move in and enjoy all the luxurious finishes. 1st floor is actually one floor from above the garage. Elevator
The ultimate 2/2 in over 1900 square feet of living space. Exceptional property with over-sized living space. Split floor plan with large bedrooms each with its own bath. Spacious lanai with great views of the ICW. Garage.
MLS #A4149391 $1,150,000
MLS#A4149092 $590,000
$549,000
$849,000
Lovely Old-Florida style home just minutes to Siesta Beach and Village. Dock w/lift,
Your Resident Siesta Key Realtors
Gulf & Bay Bayside
2 units for sale! Great beach home, vacation or rental property. Deeded beach access just across the street. 3/2 end unit or 2/2 with water views. Both beautifully renovated and furnished with attached garages. Resort-style amenities.
$650,000 and $549,000
Harbour Towne Yacht Club
Beautifully renovated and turnkey furnished 3/3 with deeded 40’ dock and 10k lift. Garage and abundant storage. Just across the street from Siesta Beach. Great deep water boating community of just 50 units. MLS #A4167104 $699,000
Lido Ambassador
Direct beachfront community just 10 minutes walk to popular St. Armand’s Circle and a short drive to downtown Sarasota. Amenities abound-beachfront pool, clubhouse, fitness, etc. Large 1, 1-1/2 beautifully renovated and furnished MLS #A4174292 $370,000
Bob Ruiz 941-544-3299 RobertRuizRR@aol.com Sheri Ruiz 941-400-4186 Sheri Lasley@aol.com www.SiestaKeyNow.com
Key Solutions Real Estate Group
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Siesta Sand
APRIL 2017
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• Canal Pool B&B – Master bedroom with private bath. California King bed. 1 mile to Siesta’s Public Beach. Call Shawna at 941-5187774. • Condo For Rent - Unfurnished, newly renovated 2 BR 2 BA, 3rd floor condo in Whispering Sands. Annual rental preferred. Community center, gym and 2 pools on property. Private beach and walk to everything in Siesta Village. Contact Tom at 941-8123381 • Siesta 4 Rent - Vacation Rentals, from studios to 5 bedrooms. Serving Siesta Key since 1997, 941-349-5500 • Siesta Key Realty Rentals, Reservations, and Property Management. Homes and Condos, 1-3 Bedrooms. Serving Siesta Key since 1992. Siestakeyrealtyrentals.com, 941-349-8900.
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Affordable and Dependable Service Solutions For Your Home While You Are Away
Veteran Owned Business
• CB’s Saltwater Outfitters – CB’s Saltwater Outfitters is an ORVIS Endorsed Outfitter Fishing Charter Service serving Siesta Key as well as Longboat Key, Lido Key, Sarasota and Venice. Our veteran guides offer exciting Fishing Adventures for anglers of all ages from novice to the expert. See our website: www.CBsOutfitters.com or stop in their store for additional info. 1240 Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key. (941)349-4400.
R. BRuce Whittinghill, llc (941) 955-1864
Call or e-mail sarasotabruce1@housewatchsrq.com housewatchsrq.com for quotes and references Serving SaraSota and Surrounding areaS Since 1979
LANDSCAPING
Dolphin Watch • SunSetS • half Day aDventure SailS LANDINGS RESIDENT OWNED AND OPERATED
Sailing From Marina Jack, Sarasota
Kathleen D Sailing Catamaran 941-896-6400
DRY CLEANERS
We don’t cut corners, we dust them.
www.relicsonthekey.com relicsonthekey@gmail.com (941) 346-3600 Phone 5049 Ocean Blvd Like us on (941) 346-7600 Fax Relicsonthekey Siesta Key Village
Tony Fudoli Sr. CAPTAIN tntfreedomfishing@yahoo.com
Locally Owned and Operated
Green Magic Cleaning Service
Relics on the Key
7210 s taMiaMi trail
Serving Manatee and Sarasota Counties
CLEANING SERVICES
Vintage, Antique, Mid-Century
ait
• Free Estimates • Satisfaction Guaranteed • Stain Specialists • Chamber of Commerce Members
A family owned business with 16 years of experience.
ANTIQUES
omplete aCkle
CONTINUED
www.KathleenD.net
• Wilson Windows is a State Certified General Contractor specializing in glass porch enclosures and window replacement. They offer only top quality products installed by professionally trained technicians. All projects are engineered and permitted to meet the new state building codes related to impact, water infiltration and high velocity windload calculations. Their services include window repair, new custom screens, glass cut to size, and hard to find window parts inventory at both locations. Fully insured and their work is guaranteed. 941-921-1113, www. wilson-window.com.
Florida Topdressing
A Division of McKinney Landscape Services, Inc. - LAWN TOPDRESSING - Rejuvinate your soil by adding an organic compost - MULCHING - For weed control and curb appeal - LAWN CLEANUPS - Including pruning & hedgetrimming
CALL FOR YOUR FREE ESTIMATE
941-705-0106
floridatopdressing.com
www.siestasand.net
941.349.0194
APRIL 2017
Island Visitor Publishing, LLC
Classifieds / Here’s My Card MEDICAL
TRANSPORTATION
SPAS / HAIR & BEAUTY
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CONTINUED
• Massage Experience Siesta Key Open 7-day a week. 5138A • Jonny’s Original Free Ride – The Original Ride the Key Free Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4833. (MA17596/MM6727). service on Siesta to anywhere, everyday from 10 AM – 2 AM. Driver tips only. Call 941-928-9200.
Dermatology Skin CanCer laSer, Botox anD Hair/nail DiSorDerS
Olde Fashion Barber Shop
Tapers • Flattops • Fades • Styling • Razor Cuts • Shaves
ther”
“Hot La
1952 Field Road Sarasota, Florida 34231
J Morgan O’Donoghue, MD.
Amy Fenenga PA-C
941-312-6001
South Gate Barber Shop
Sara Popovich PA-C
(Across from Southgate Mall)
2081 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239
941.926.7546
www.dermatologyexperts.com
• Dollar Limo – holds up to 10 people and is cheaper than a D.U.I or taxi. Call 941-735-4732
Walk-Ins Welcome
Monday-Friday 9 AM-6 PM; Saturday 9 AM-4PM
MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES
www.SouthgateBarbers.com
Tara Nelson
Master Stylist / Colorist
4141 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231
Transportation for everyone on the Sun Coast Friendliest Ride In Town
941-925-0928
APRIL SPECIAL on Keratins SILKY SMOOTH Hair for Summer! Starting at $150
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT • For 100 years, we have provided the most comprehensive property management services in both the commercial and residential industries. Your investment is our priority. Experience the difference. Call today for a free rental price analysis. 941-952-3168. McMullenProperties.com
FIRST RIDE
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
Kayla Kunz
HELENE M. HYLAND
Hair Stylist
REALTOR®
(941) 685-2274 Cell (941) 349-4411 Office (800) 237-9403 Toll Free (941) 349-8090 Fax HeleneHyland@comcast.net
5145 Ocean Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34242 Owned and Operated by NRT, LLC
www.SheSellsSiestaKeySarasota.com
Piro & Associates REALTORS®
SPORTS RENTALS / ACCESSORIES • Robin Hood Rentals – for all your Siesta Key rental needs with a wide variety segways, bikes, kayaks, scooters and more, free pickup and delivery anywhere on the key. 5255 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key Village. 941-554-4242
DISCOUNT
30 YEARS EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL DRIVERS DOOR-TO-DOOR SERVICE 24/7 ACCOMMODATES UP TO 7 PASSENGERS
Call 941-284-8840 or 941-323-0442 For Current Rates
• Siesta Key Bike & Kayak – Located on Siesta Key in Capt Curts Village serving Siesta Key, Lido Beach and Sarasota. We offer bikes, kayak rentals, kayak eco tours, paddleboards and scooters. 1224 Old Sickney Pt Rd. 941-346-0891 • Siesta Sports Rentals – Located on Siesta Key, bike, kayak, kayak tours, scooter, children strollers and car seats. Delivery and pickup available, 6551 Midnight Pass Rd, 941-346-1797
Expert in 1031 Exchange
Office: (941) 923-3900 Cell: (941) 356-8699 Fax: (941) 924-0086 mail: piroassociates@comcast.net Website: www.pirorealty.com
4141 S. Tamiami Trail - Sarasota, FL 34231 - 941-735-1625
10%
James J. Piro, MAI, CCIM Licensed Real Estate Broker
7719 Holiday Drive, Sarasota, FL 34231
SENIOR SERVICES • A Bridge for Independence provides in home companion services including companionship, transportation, light housekeeping, medication reminders and meal preparation and planning. Call us at 866-279-4390, FL License #230517
WANTED TO BUY
RV4CASH
SARASOTA
Siesta Beach Realty FLORIDA Steven Whitmore, Broker
Use my 30 years of experience to help you with your property.
Visit our website at: SiestaBeachRealty.com Call or email me stevenwhitmore@verizon.com
941-993-5722
SPECIAL OFFER : List Your Home With Me For 4%!
• Making things happen on Siesta Key with Real Estate agents Bob and Sheri Ruiz from Key Solutions Real Estate Group. If you are looking to buy or sell on the Key contact us. Bob Ruiz 941-544-3299 RobertRuizRR@aol.com, Sheri Ruiz 941-400-4186 SheriLasley@aol.com • Your Siesta Dunes and Landings Preferred Partners in Real Estate, Judy Greene 941-350-0451 and Tara Lamb 941-266-4873 with Michael Sanders & Company 5100 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key 34242 JudyGreene@MichaelSanders.com
TRANSPORTATION • Sun Ride Pedicab – Eco-friendly Pedicabs. Siesta Key Tours and rides – tips only, 941-343-3400 • Siesta Key Free Rides – Siesta Key Free island shuttle for beach, village, condo and tours – tips only. Electric vehicles. Call 941952-8294
Airport Rides From Sarasota To:
941.735.4732
$ 30
$ 40
TPA/St. Pete
$105
$125
Punta Gorda
$ 70
$ 80
Miami
$250
$300
Orlando
$200
$220
Madness
Prices Include Tolls, Fuel & Parking For Airport Pickups your Chauffeur will have a sign with your name on it.
941-928-9200
RIDE THE KEY FREE
15-20 MINUTE RESPONSE TIME (Based upon traffic)
SERVICING
Siesta Key Beach Siesta Village Turtle Beach
DRIVER TIPS ONLY
WANTED:
All Motor Homes, 5th Wheels and Travel Trailers Any Condition! Cash Paid On The Spot!
CALL NOW FOR FAST, EASY SALE
954-789-7530
Answers to the Search WORD SEARCH found on page 35 MarinerWord www.TheMariner.com Askfrom Answers Page 19 for March Eddie
Picked up from Airport:
SRQ
AY WE PH! S A C
Restaurants and Accommodations Operating 10AM to 2AM Daily
www.JonnysOriginalFreeRide.com
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Siesta Sand
APRIL 2017
941.349.0194
www.siestasand.net
Accommodations Locator Map
See our maps of the island online at
F Siesta Key Inn F Siesta Palms by the Beach
www.siestasand.net/maps
© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012
www.siestasand.net
941.349.0194
APRIL 2017
Island Visitor Publishing, LLC
24/7 Emergency Dentistry Call for your appointment now! (941) 375-4005
10% OFF
Any Emergency Dental Work Uninsured patients only. During regular business hours.
Not valid with any other offers. After hours and weekends are extra.* Expires 4-30-2017. Code 026
FREE
Oral Sedation
(D9248) Will need driver. During regular business hours. After hours and weekends are extra. Uninsured patients only. Not valid with any other offers.* Expires 4-30-2017. Code 026
EmergencyDentistry.com
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Siesta Sand
APRIL 2017
Island Girl
941.349.0194
Brandie
This month’s Island Girl is Brandie from Sarasota by way of Little Falls, MN. She has a passion to do anything beach related as well as going to music festivals, shopping, or out on the town with good friends. Without hesitation she said if she could spend a day with anyone in the world, living or deceased, it would be a Justin Bieber. She tries to get to amazing Siesta Beach, the number one beach in America, as often as possible. You can meet her most days as a bartender/server at Mad Moe’s Sports Bar and Grill in Osprey.
If you would like to be considered for our next Island Girl, contact us at islandvp@verizon.net (You must be at least 18 years old to participate)
www.siestasand.net