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Deli of destiny

A half century in existence, Anna’s represents a huge slice of Siesta Key history By John Morton

This aerial map shows the location of the new angled parking spots planned for North Ocean Boulevard. Submitted image

Roundabout, parking spaces get green light By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

With no one having signed up to address the issues, the Sarasota County commissioners took just barely more than a minute on Jan. 26 to approve a $610,000 budget amendment for two controversial Siesta Key projects — the construction of 22 parking spaces in county right-of-way on the northern end of Ocean Boulevard in Siesta Village, plus a roundabout planned for the intersection of Midnight Pass Road and Beach Road. With the agenda item listed as a “presentation upon request,” none of the board members asked for staff remarks. After closing the public hearing, Chairman Alan Maio asked for “a motion and a

second.” Commissioner Ron Cutsinger made the motion to approve the budget amendment, and Commissioner Michael Moran seconded it. Then Maio looked down the dais at his colleagues as he asked, “Any comments?” No one responded, so he proceeded with the vote, noting that he was supporting the measure, as well. A staff memo in the meeting packet noted that on Nov. 17 the commissioners unanimously requested that County Administrator Jonathan Lewis amend the 2021 fiscal year budget to add the parkingspace project at an estimated

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hen Dave Havill first visited Siesta Key as a tourist in the summer of 1997, little did he know he’d be taking a big bite out of the place. “I just by chance walked into Anna’s in the Village,” he recalled, “and I saw the hours and thought, ‘Only 10:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.?’ Then, I noticed the only thing for sale were cold sandwiches. I wondered, ‘How in the world do they succeed?’” But then, he sunk his teeth into a roast beef on rye. “It was the best sandwich I ever tasted,” Havill said. “It really was.” He studied the place during the remainder of his stay at the nearby Tropical Breeze Resort, noticing the long lines that sometimes reached the parking lot. And he noticed repeat customers, often daily. As for the location, it was in the heart of the action. Were these things that made him curious as someone looking for a new business venture in life? “Not really,” he said. “All that mattered to me was that sandwich. It was that good.” He also began to believe in fate. After all, when he called the Tropical Breeze Resort on a whim, the owner asked where he lived and next thing they knew they were sharing stories about living in the same region of southern Indiana. “It was the first place I called, and we had all these things in common with our time at IU (Indiana University),” Havill said. “I booked my trip right away.” He also just so happened to have recently entered the corporate world

Anna’s owner Dave Havill enjoys a special Surfer sandwich in his shop. Photo by John Morton

as a vice-president of food operations. He knew the restaurant business. Finally, a year later, he got wind of a private listing for two eating establishments that were on the selling block. “When I heard it was Anna’s, I couldn’t believe my ears,” Havill said. So, in the fall of 1998 he obtained a $200,000 loan and purchased the two Anna’s locations on the Key – one on

Avenida Messina in the Village and a second in the Southbridge Mall. Also, part of the deal was the neighboring Marcella’s ice cream shop. “This was destiny. I had to get these,” he said. But he also paid an emotional price. The deal took months to coordinate and the closing itself lasted a grueling 17 hours. Continued on page 30

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Paw Pals Meet Milo

Resident fights stoplight plan

Fish farm proposal receives opposition

Local artist is drawing a crowd

• Village Map/business listings PAGES 24-25 • Crescent Beach Map/ business listings PAGE 26 • Music Calendar PAGE 32 • Gulf Gate Shops PAGE 35 • Accommodations Map/ Listings PAGE 47

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Greetings from the Gulf By John Morton

t was in the spring of 1973 when Ozark Airlines first brought me to Siesta Key. As my family checked into the Palm Bay Club, the usual “Can you suggest some things to do?” question was directed at the clerk at the front desk. As a revved-up 8-yearold making his first visit to Florida and still shaking off the Wisconsin frost, I eagerly awaited hearing ideas like parasailing, deep-sea fishing, body surfing, seagull feeding, or sand-castle sculpting. Instead, we got this: “Have you been to Anna’s yet?” And thus began an arguably ridiculous love affair between my family and a delicatessen. That may sound weird to most, but for those who have chowed down a Surfer – well, I know you get it. In fact, you very well may soon be wiping off your chin with this very article. Folks, no matter how you slice it, Anna’s is a Siesta Key institution. And in this issue of the Siesta Sand, I’m delighted to have the honor to tell part of its 50-year story. I’m 56 – yes, both in age

outright. This is the same family that in 1981 scolded me after generously making an Anna’s run consisting of a dozen orders. The story, which is still rubbed in my face at most every family gathering, goes like this: I return with the food, and someone notices there’s uncharacteristically no sandwich for me. It’s then that I admit I ate mine at the shop. Well, from their reaction, you’d thought I committed a federal crime. The nerve, they cried, to do so as they sat and rotted with starvation. For the record, I inhaled the sandwich like always. My selfish act may have cost them all of three minutes. But apparently, when you’re awaiting your Anna’s, every second counts. All these years later, when I volunteer to pick up an order, there is trepidation among my kin. “Come right back” is typically someone’s sarcastic insistence as I walk out the door. Then there was my nephew’s beach wedding in 2010. I jokingly suggested it be catered by Anna’s and I’ll be darned if 75 sandwiches didn’t arrive just in time for the reception. I’ve seen people hit the sauce at a wedding or two in my day, but not like this. I also laugh at the fact I have sat outside Anna’s on countless occasions before they opened, trying to not make eye contact with the hustling workers as they prepped for the day. “Hang in there, big guy!” were the words I’d like to think they

Word on the beach

Happy to be a slave to the slicer

and certainly pounds heavier – so I’m as qualified to do so as most anyone. Not only do I make the cut, I’d like to think I make the cold cut. After all, my allegiance to the place is undeniable. For example, I won’t visit New Dehli because I feel I’d be cheating. And in New York City, I want nothing to do with the Subway. Ah, yes, such fun with sandwich jokes. Anyway, Anna’s and I go way back. But there were growing pains. At first, I ordered plain turkey with no sauce on white bread. Anna herself would cringe but grin, patting me on the head. A few years later, after I finally put on my big-boy bib, I was ordering my sandwiches with these stern rules: “Don’t skimp on the sauce.” I would also graduate to rye, pumpernickel and marble. Even cucumbers would find their way into my life. Anna, I know you’re proud of me. Speaking of the sauce, I asked the Anna’s crew during my interview for any saucy stories, and the owner’s daughter spoke of a guy named Hank who used to always order a 16-ounce container of sauce on the side for takeout. I feigned disbelief, actually well aware she was referring to my former brotherin-law. Back home with our order, we’d all competitively dip our sandwiches and chips in the heavenly concoction, worried that one of us could breakdown at any moment and guzzle it

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were saying. Truth is, I might as well have had my face pressed against the glass. And yes, this is disturbing behavior at 10:29 and 50-some seconds in the morning. But, in my defense, I always felt entitled. After all, the gals always called out my name when I’d walk in. Incredibly, despite sometimes going an entire year between visits, they remembered me. It’s as if I owned the joint. On one visit, I recall a girlfriend saying “I’m not sure if I’m impressed or worried,” followed by a friendly pinch of my belly. “Anyway, order me a pastrami with the works,” she continued to my relief. Finally, in 2000, I suggested my soon-to-be-born daughter be named Anna. The wife just shook her head. (By the way, by no means were my two sons named Jimmy or John. OK, no more sandwich jokes). In closing, I’ve never sent those nasty “I’m here and you’re not” postcards back to friends in Wisconsin. You know the ones – babes on the beach vs. cars in the snowbanks. No, I’m much more vicious. I send the standard photo of me in front of Anna’s, pointing obnoxiously toward the door. I tell them I’ll soon be eating liverwurst while they eat their heart out. But such is life when you are slave to a slicer. It’s cutthroat out there. (John Morton is managing editor of the Siesta Sand.)

Do you like the idea of two hotels being built on Siesta Key? Jack Lansing, Michigan “Yes, as long as they have a bar and a restaurant. It’s my first time here, and I thought there would be more of them. The more access to the Key the better for tourists and I can’t image that two hotels would take away business from the existing condos. This place is apparently very popular.” Jeff Chicago “The good of it will be an increase in tourism and more spending for the local economy. However, I don’t want to see it take an hour to get over the bridge. I can see things getting too crowded here if they don’t reengineer the to and from. I’ve been here a month and the traffic keeps getting worse.” Val Havana, Illinois “I think the hotels idea is nice. I’m sure they’d be very busy. I’m surprised there are so few hotels here. But I’m sure many people would like to leave things the way they are because traffic is now crazy. It’s my third year coming here, and the first year was pretty calm. It seems everyone has discovered it.” Micky Palmer Ranch “I’m ready for them. I think it’s time. We need something new, and a couple nice hotels near the beach is the only thing that’s missing. Now, I don’t want it to end up looking like Clearwater. But we’re talking about only two. I don’t want it to become crazy with new development.”

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Time for Some Financial Spring Cleaning Sarasota Local Brings Experience & Trust to Siesta Key

Spring is officially here – and for many of us, that means it’s time for some spring cleaning around our homes and yards. But why stop there? This year, why not do some financial spring cleaning, too?

a declining market, it might help reduce the impact of market volatility on your portfolio.

You can apply some of the same principles of traditional spring cleaning to your financial environment. Here are a few suggestions: • Clear your vision. Spring brings extra hours of sunshine – and to enjoy them, you’ll want to clean your windows, inside and out. As an investor, you also need to take a clear-eyed view of your situation periodically. Are you on track toward achieving your goals? If not, what moves can you make to get back on the right path? You need to be honest with yourself to see if you’re doing all you can to help make progress toward your objectives. • “De-clutter” your portfolio. As you go about sprucing up your house, you may find that you have a lot of clutter. Do you

Joe St. Onge outside his office on Siesta Key.

really need three mops? And are you holding on to those old calendars for any good reason? You’ll probably feel much better about your surroundings when you de-clutter them – and the same may be true of your investment portfolio. For example, do you own several investments that are virtually identical? If so, you might want to consider ways to help diversify your holdings. While diversification can’t guarantee profits or protect against losses in

• Recharge your batteries. When you do your household spring cleaning, you may want to check the batteries on your smoke alarm, carbon monoxide detector and other devices. And as part of your financial spring cleaning,you might need to recharge your own investment “batteries,” so to speak. In other words, increase the power you’re providing to your portfolio. You can do this in a few different ways. First, you can increase your contributions to your 401(k) or similar retirement plan every time your salary goes up. You can also try to “max out” on your IRA contributions each year. (For 2020, you can put in up to $6,000 in an IRA, or $7,000 if you’re age 50 or older). Another way to increase your investment voltage is to make sure you’ve got adequate growth potential in your portfolio based on your goals and risk tolerance.

• Put your house in order. As part of your spring cleanup, you may want to check for damage on your roof, windows, siding and so on. But you also need to put your financial house in order, especially as it regards to protection. Do you have adequate life insurance? If not, your family could suffer if something were to happen to you. And have you thought about how you could pay for long-term care if you needed it? The average annual cost for a private room in a nursing home is about $100,000, according to the insurance company Genworth. To retain your financial independence – and also to help protect your grown children from possibly having to deal with these costs – you may want to explore some type of long-term care insurance. By doing some spring cleaning around your home, you’ll lighten up your living space. And doing some financial spring cleaning may help you brighten your future.

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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Island Chatter Federal order requires face coverings on the trolley

All passengers on the Siesta Key Breeze open-air trolley must wear face coverings, in accord with a federal order that pertains to all public transit systems, Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) has announced. The order says every public transportation operator must make certain that each person on a transit vehicle wears a mask when boarding and disembarking. Further, public transportation operators are to use their best efforts to ensure compliance for the duration of travel, a county news release explains. Complimentary masks will be offered to riders who do not have one, the release points out. Although Sarasota County staff has been encouraging the wearing of face coverings for nearly a year, this order “applies to all who utilize SCAT’s services,” including fixed routes and SCAT Plus, along with the Breeze, the release adds.

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Busy period for Sheriff’s Office on the Key

During the Feb. 4 Siesta Key Association meeting, Sgt. Arik Smith, leader of the Sheriff’s Office’s substation on the Key, noted that the department fielded 341 calls for service in January, “which is a little bit up from previous months” in previous years. However, he continued, the number of more serious crimes — those the FBI used to classify as Part 1 incidents — has stayed “pretty close to the same [level on Siesta].” Among January incidents, Smith pointed to six thefts of vehicles. Four of the six, he said, involved unattended vehicles with the keys left in them. In two cases, he added, the vehicles were still running when someone stole them. In the fifth incident, Smith said, a person broke into the vehicle, but the keys were not in it, so it was not taken. And in the sixth case, he noted, the owner had removed the keys Continued on page 24

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Community Spotlight James Richards

Drawing upon the scenes of a lifetime

James Richards

You are a local sketch artist whose accomplishments are far-reaching. Can you share your history with drawing and where it has taken you? “I remember lying on the living room floor as a preschooler and drawing along with Jon Gnagy’s Learn to Draw television show in the 1950s, and I knew even then it was something I loved. I stumbled into landscape architecture and urban design at LSU in the 1970s -- pre-computer days -- when drawing well was a critical design skill for communicating your ideas. Drawing became a cornerstone of my design career, and I was fortunate to imagine and sketch visions for projects ranging from college campuses to Austin’s Town Lake to Exxon’s corporate headquarters. At the same time, I was traveling at every opportunity,

sketching the world’s great places to continue my education. Later in my career, universities started inviting me to teach workshops rethinking the role of freehand sketching for a digital age, and to teach rapid drawing skills to students and faculties. I’m proud that my wife Patti and I have been invited to do these workshops for 24 universities across the U.S. and abroad. Soon arts groups started requesting workshops, and then travel companies. So, pre-COVID, we were spending 50% of our year on the road teaching sketching workshops, from the UK to Tuscany, Vietnam to Kenya. All these trips are opportunities to sketch new places and then share those travels online. Describe your techniques and the materials involved in your creations. “Sketching on location calls for tools and materials that are light and portable, and that allow you to work quickly to capture the energy of a scene ‑- its ‘spirit of place.’ I usually jump right in with a rapid ink drawing. I like to draw lively public places, so I include a lot of people in the drawing, as well as architecture, trees, and details that make a place unique. I let the lines and tones tell a lot of the story, and sometimes the black and white drawing is enough. But I’ll usually add watercolor wash, either on the spot if there’s time, or later in the studio. I’ll occasionally add notes.

Q A

At the end of day, it’s about finding what’s authentic in a place and sharing it. It’s a great feeling when a local looks and my sketch and says, ‘You’ve made me see my own place differently.’” You reside on Siesta Key. What brought you here? “We were living in Fort Worth, and our daughters were looking for a place for a seaside wedding that didn’t feel like a resort -- that was more of a real community. They found Siesta Key, and when we checked it out we really felt something special here. A few months later I was working on a book project back in Texas and making no progress. Patti said, ‘Let’s change the backdrop,’ and booked a month in a small house near Siesta Key Village. I found it an incredibly inspirational setting. The third week into our stay, we woke up one morning, looked at each other, and said, ‘We’re not going back.’” What do you consider the most ambitious drawing you have completed? And why? “Probably a series of four sketches I did during Hurricane Irma in 2017. We had evacuated to Lakeland and, of course, Irma changed course and the eye came right over us. I stood under the hotel’s openair porte cochere and created a sort of time-lapse series of the same scene at four different points as the storm passed through. I was protected from

Q A

A curious Siesta Key beach walker admires the work of James Richards as he sketches outside his residence at Peppertree Bay condos.

the worst of the rain but not the wind. As I was finishing the third

drawing at the height of the storm, a TV news van pulled up. Melissa Marino of WFLA got

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out in her rain slicker and ball cap and said, ‘What are you doing?’ Long story short, those drawings made the 11 p.m. news. A few months later, they were seen as part of a story on the international Urban Sketchers organization on NBC Nightly News.” Do you take requests? If so, what is the most unique you have received? “I almost never take commissions simply because my schedule won’t allow for it. The most unique exception was in the fall of 2019. Singer-songwriter Rosanne Cash had seen some of my work done in Cuba. She contacted me and asked if I’d be willing to create a painting of her father Johnny Cash’s boyhood home in Dyess, Arkansas, which had been restored, placed on the National Register of Historic Places, and opened to the public. She wanted the painting as a surprise retirement gift for Dr. Ruth Hawkins, who had conceived and spearheaded that project. I told her I’d love to do it and that I looked forward to hearing her thoughts on the project. She said, ‘I’d never presume to tell another artist how to do their work.’ A few months later I’d completed a painting I was proud of, and Patti and I were invited to the Johnny Cash Heritage Festival in Dyess as

Q A

The Point of Rocks (top) and the Siesta Key Oster Bar are James Richards’ favorite drawings on the local scene.

special guests of Rosanne and her siblings. At the outdoor concert closing the festival, Rosanne called me to the concert stage to present the painting to a surprised and delighted Dr. Hawkins. I’ll never be a rock star, but I felt like one for a few minutes on that crisp Saturday.” With international travel limited due to the coronavirus, you’ve spent many months hunkered down on Siesta Key. Has it been meaningful to focus on the settings right here at your doorstep? If so, why? “It’s been a revelation. Our local friend Veronica Murphy has long encouraged me to focus on the Key, but it seemed we were always traveling or recovering from travel. Having travel interrupted has allowed the time and space to get to know our own community much better and walking and sketching puts you on intimate terms with a place like nothing else does. When you fuse pen, place, and your own personality into a sketch, you give that place a piece of yourself, and vice versa. As a result, Patti and I are scaling back our pre-COVID travel schedule, opting instead to spend more time and enjoy a slower pace here.” What is your favorite Siesta Key drawing?

Q A

“Of course, that’s like asking which of your kids you love best. But so far, I’d have to say it’s a recent one of the Point of Rocks, because of how integral that unique site is to the environmental processes that created the Key and the beaches. A close second is the Siesta Key Oyster Bar, mainly because of the enthusiastic response it received on social media from locals and visitors. They tell me that these places are a very important part of their lives, and it’s cool how a drawing can trigger those emotions.” How can people learn more about you and obtain your work? “My website has links to workshops, prints, originals, and my book: JamesRichards Sketchbook.com. Paper and canvas prints are available here: society6.com/ jamesrichardssketchbook.

Q A

The most complete and up-to-date collection of my art: instagram. com/jrsketchbook.” (Community Spotlight each month features a resident who has an interesting occupation, activity, or story to tell. Please submit subjects you feel are worthy of some recognition to managing editor John Morton at info@27statemedia.com or by calling or texting (941) 313-6992.)

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Bicyclist dies on Siesta Key after collision with trolley By Jane Bartnett A 74-year-old bicyclist identified as a Sarasota man was killed when he turned directly in front of a Siesta Key Breeze Trolley. The incident occurred at 1:30 p.m. Feb. 8 when the cyclist and the trolley, both heading southbound on Midnight Pass Road, approached the intersection of Stickney Point Road. According to Florida Highway Patrol, the cyclist

The new Beach Pass feature on Visit Sarasota County’s free app profiles three Siesta Key beaches and 17 others in Sarasota County. Photo courtesy of Visit Sarasota.com

App spotlights local beaches By Jane Bartnett Siesta Key is home to three of the 20 beaches that Visit Sarasota County has profiled on its free Visit Sarasota County app and new Beach Pass feature. The app is available from the Apple Store or Google Play. A visit to the Beach Pass feature allows the visitor to discover Siesta Key’s Siesta Beach, Turtle Beach, and Palmer Point Beach. A quick swipe of the finger brings the reader a wealth of information that includes directions to the beaches, park hours, a description of the special attributes of each beach, details on attractions, restaurant listings, outdoor activities, nightlife, shopping, and sports events. The Siesta Beach Beach Pass profile pays tribute to the No. 1 beach in America, as designated by many travel-related organizations, and notes that it’s the only Siesta Key beach that has lifeguards on duty every day. A full list of the many amenities to be found at Siesta Beach and a detailed description of its rich history makes this a must read for visitors and locals alike. Looking for a more secluded off-the-beaten-path kind of

beach? Check the Beach Pass feature and discover the many wonders of Turtle Beach. Favored by many locals, Turtle Beach is tucked away at the south end of the Key and located at the far end of Midnight Pass Road. Its name pays tribute to the many turtles that nest there. Turtle Beach amenities include a parking lot, boat ramp, canoe and kayaking launches, as well as outdoor showers and restrooms. Head south from Turtle Beach on foot or by boat and there lies a sandy secluded spot called Palmer Point Beach. The Beach Pass feature on the VSC app lists the address as 9399 Blind Pass Road. No facilities or public parking are available but there’s plenty of nature to be enjoyed at this southernmost Siesta Key beach. Designed to encourage visitors and local residents alike to explore the beaches of Siesta Key, as well as the 17 other beaches that make up Sarasota County’s 35-plus miles of coastline, the Beach Pass feature on the app also features a gaming component. Visitors have a chance to win prizes when logging in and visiting one beach or more.

violated the trolley driver’s right of way. The cyclist, who was not wearing a helmet, was thrown from his bicycle when the left corner of the trolley struck him. Sarasota County EMS pronounced the man dead on the scene and then transported the cyclist to Sarasota Memorial Hospital. The driver of the trolley, a 42-year-old Myakka City

woman, was wearing a seatbelt and was not injured, the report said. Florida Highway Patrol is continuing to investigate the incident. It has yet to name the deceased man. Sarasota County Transit, which operates the trolley, declined to comment when contacted.

Avid bicyclists fear congested intersection By John Morton Bicyclists Christina Mojeico and Josh Hinzpeter shook their heads in sadness and frustration upon learning of the Feb. 8 death of a fellow bike rider. “That’s such a shame, but I’m not surprised,” Mojeico said moments after biking through the intersection of Midnight Pass and Stickney Point roads, where the accident took place. “The traffic here is madness and it gets consistently worse. And that spot is particularly dangerous.” The incident involved a trolley and a non-helmeted bicyclist who turned in front of the vehicle. “You’ve got to really be on your toes around here,” said Hinzpeter. “It’s a fun place to bike, but you need to know what you’re doing. So often, the drivers of cars are looking left as they’re turning right. They’re looking for other cars, not bikes.” The couple were visiting from Oregon, where they enjoy the open spaces suited for bicycling. “We lived here seven years ago,” Mojeico said, “and that was when Josh got hit by a car on his bike along Clark Road. It’s part of why we left. “We bike when we come back to visit because we don’t like being stuck in traffic. But we know it’s a risk.” Jim Wheeler, president of the 750-member Sarasota Manatee Bicycle Club, said the South Bridge

A pair of bicyclists walk there bikes due to narrow space and heavy traffic as they approach the intersection of Midnight Pass and Stickney Point roads. Photo by John Morton

and the Stickney Point/Midnight Pass intersection are areas he avoids. “I haven’t taken a group that way in probably 15 years,” he said. “When it’s crowded, there’s really no way through it. “When we are in a large group, cars can at least typically see us coming. But for an individual bicyclist? No way.” Wheeler said that biking alongside buses and trolleys is particularly challenging, considering their size, limited views, and frequent stops. “We’ve been run off the road a few times by them up in Manatee (County),” he said. “Here they have

bike racks on them, so you’d think they’d be more conscientious of us, but that’s not always the case.” Helmets, Wheeler said, are a critical piece of equipment. “I’ve said it so many times -wear a helmet. You’d think by now people would know,” he said. “Florida has had so many accidents.” The Ride and Paddle in Siesta Key’s Southbridge Mall is the bike-rental store that is closest to the accident scene, and employees there said helmets are provided free of charge. For children, they are a requirement.

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Anti-hotel group growing By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com The organization fighting proposed hotels on Siesta Key continues to grow, its chairman said. The hotels’ developers need Sarasota County Commission approval to exceed the island’s standard zoning provisions. In a Jan. 25 email, Mark Spiegel of the Siesta Key Coalition wrote, “We are now up to 22 associations on Siesta Key representing nearly 2,000 households. A few more are considering joining.” The coalition, which has achieved 501(c)(3) nonprofit status, was established last summer, initially in response to plans for a 170-room hotel on what the attorney for the developer calls “the edge of Siesta Village.” In a Jan. 29 email blast, the Siesta Key Condominium Council provided its members its latest recommendation for membership in the coalition. “The SKCC strongly urges all Siesta Key Condominium Associations to become a part of this important fight to preserve our iconic Siesta Key,” Frank Jurenka, the association’s president, wrote. He said a list of condos that have joined the coalition can be found siestakeyassociation. com/projects/sk-coalition/. The webpage also includes a wealth of information on the activities of the coalition, multiple recent newspaper or online publication articles discussing concerns, a live video presentation of the coalition’s perspective, and a prior press release, Jurenka added. “If … your condominium association wishes to join in this fight by becoming a ‘community supporting member,’ thus allowing the coalition to place your support information on its website and advertise added support for its efforts, the coalition is requesting a support letter,” Jurenka pointed out. “An example of this can be found on the website.”

That letter is from the Siesta Isles Association. Dated Oct. 17, 2021 and signed by Siesta Isles Association President Pamela Atkins, the letter is addressed to Spiegel. She noted that Spiegel had made a presentation to the Siesta Isles Association Board of Directors this past Oct. 15. During his remarks that day, she noted, Spiegel had focused on plans for the eight-story, 170-room hotel that would stand between Calle Miramar and Beach Road. Since then, the Coalition has expanded its efforts to oppose the planned 120-room hotel that Siesta Key businessman Gary Kompothecras wants to construct on Old Stickney Point Road, plus the redevelopment of the Siesta Key Beach Resorts and Suites in Siesta Village from 55 rooms to 170. Atkins pointed out in her letter that her board members agreed that not only would the hotel on Calle Miramar “be a detriment to the quality of life on the Key, the change in county density per unit … would also open a pandora’s box that would allow high-rise hotels throughout Siesta Key and on all the other barrier islands in Sarasota County. Such a change would forever alter the ambience and lifestyle of this part of the west coast of Florida.” The Calle Miramar project team also has proposed amendments to the county’s Comprehensive Plan and its Unified Development Code, which contains all the zoning and land-development regulations. Those would eliminate any residential density consideration for hotel rooms on property zoned for commercial purposes on the barrier islands within the county’s jurisdiction. During the county’s required neighborhood workshop on the Calle Miramar proposal, William Merrill, a partner with the Sarasota law firm Icard Merrill, emphasized that

research had shown that neither Casey Key nor Manasota Key has property zoned for commercial purposes; thus, the amendments would apply only to Siesta Key. In a Jan. 21 letter to the Sarasota County commissioners, Spiegel, Jurenka and Catherine Luckner, the Siesta Key Association president, pointed out that the Siesta Key Community Plan, which was adopted in 1999, “became the precursor for the later legislative enactment of the codes and regulations of the Siesta Key Overlay District in 2002 and the … future land use [policies] for the barrier islands including Siesta Key,” which are part of the county’s Comprehensive Plan. The district encompasses all the zoning rules for Siesta Key. “The intent of these existing policies was to designate the special land-use category for unique barrier islands, including Siesta Key, relative to mainland Sarasota County, recognizing that ‘development on the barrier island was of special concern’ and ‘to underscore these special considerations density and intensity of future development may not exceed that allowed by existing zoning,’” the Jan. 21 letter added. Moreover, the letter said, “Hotel density equivalency factors have been utilized elsewhere in Florida, especially coast towns and barrier islands, and serve to control the number of hotel units per acre to maintain Siesta Key’s community character, sense of place and control the commensurate impacts.” Jurenka also noted in his Jan. 29 email blast, “If your condo representative wishes to gain additional information, the SK Coalition leader is available for discussion.” Spiegel’s email address, Jurenka added, is SKCoalition@ gmail.com.

CAPTAIN CURT’S VILLAGE

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27th State Media LLC

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with some Seafood Delights!

Reviewed February 16, 2021

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Large selection of fresh seafood. Special Orders Welcome!

I really like this family business. Just fresh good food, especially excellent fish and seafood. If you want quality, simply cooked to order fish and sides, this is it. My favorite key lime pie in town, too. So glad I found this little place a few years ago. Clam chowder is really nice, too.

Come in for a Florida Classic caught by Captain Rich, a friend of Fresh Catch.

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By Jane Bartnett The busy 2020 holiday shipping season was about to kick off when ownership of the Siesta Key Pack and Ship store in Southbridge Mall changed hands. Long-time customers entering the shop, also known as the Mail Pack Center, found a new face behind the counter as Kenneth Beri, the new general manager, welcomed them to the family-owned business. Debra Dubbs, Berio’s mother-in-law, owns the shop as well as a second location called Sarasota Pack and Ship on North Beneva Road. As shipping volume skyrocketed in towns and cities around the world, Siesta Key was no exception. As it did during the past year, packing and shipping demand grew as customers sent packages to Canada and around the U.S. When the pandemic forced many businesses to close their doors, the Siesta Key Pack and Ship store was deemed an essential business because residents and visitors alike depended upon it for mail, the delivery of essential prescriptions, and other materials. Dubbs, a Sarasota native, credits the regional real estate boom with helping her business. It is generating a sizable increase in the amount of paperwork, she said, while legal lending and sales transactions often need original signatures and deliveries. The growth of E-Bay and Etsy, as well as other e-commerce sites, has also boosted shipping and packing sales. The increasing number of remote workers is another factor

Siesta Key Pack and Ship, also known as Mail Pack Center of Siesta Key, is located at 6547 Midnight Pass Road, in the Southbridge Mall.

that has helped the store’s bottom line. Although living and working remotely on a barrier island can present some challenges, Berio suggests that the Siesta Key Pack and Ship store’s services are made-

to-order for today’s remote worker. “Not everything can be e-mailed and access to a private personal mailbox can be beneficial in today’s business world,” he said. To meet that demand, Siesta Continued on page 46

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Did You Know Siesta Key has a GEMSTONE? It’s no secret that the sand on Siesta Key Beach is composed of 99% pure quartz. The crystalline white sand of Siesta Key is luxurious, soft, white and cool to the touch 365 days a year. This is why our beloved beach has been revered as one of the most beautiful in the world. Wanting to capture the experience and essence of Siesta Key beach was the goal of the proprietor of Silver City, Monica. “Tourists always wish they can somehow take their vacation memories with them,” so with this in mind, Silver City designed the Siesta Key Watercolor GemstoneTM. They were able to capture the colors of Siesta Key’s blue/ green water and put it into a quartz gemstone. This quartz gemstone is a fusion of the tropical colors that surround us. Just looking into the clear, beautiful gemstone will transport you back to our island paradise representing the Sea, Sky and beautiful sand of Siesta Key Beach. Silver City has now become a “Must Stop” destination for tourists (Currently named #1 shopping destination on TRIP ADVISOR on Siesta Key). Shining brightly among the cases of this uniquely mirrored store lies the much raved about Siesta Key Watercolor GemstoneTM. Every jewelry piece is designed and made by Silver City Sarasota. The staff of Silver City Sarasota is very proud of their unique collection and variety of designs in Sterling Silver and in 14K gold.

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Corn recall emphasizes proper diet Kyle Baker, Senior Pet Food Nutritionist at DOGPerfect Are Foods Containing Corn Potentially Harmful to Your Pet? The Short Answer is Yes.

It always saddens me when I see a headline in the news containing the words “Dog Food”, “Recall”, and “Dog Deaths”, especially when it is a situation that has a solution and can be prevented. If you are not already aware, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has recently issued a recall informing pet parents that high levels of aflatoxin in some pet foods resulted in 70 dog deaths and even more who got sick. The specific brands include Pro Pac, Sportmix, Nunn Better Maintenance, and Splash Fat Cat. Upon seeing this recall due to aflatoxins, I felt it was important to bring to your attention the importance of avoiding feeding your pet foods that contain corn as an ingredient. It is really not worth the potential risks involved to your pet.

What Are Aflatoxins?

According to the FDA, aflatoxins are toxins produced by the mold Aspergillus flavus that can grow on pet food ingredients such as corn, peanuts, and other grains. At high levels, aflatoxins can cause illness (aflatoxicosis), liver damage, and death in pets. The toxins can be present even if there is no visible mold on the pet food. If your pet eats food that contains high levels of aflatoxins, they can get aflatoxin poisoning. Pets are prone to aflatoxin poisoning because, unlike people, who generally eat a varied diet, most pets generally eat the same food continuously day in and day out. I recommend rotating your pet’s diet across brands throughout the year for better vitamin nutrition and a balanced diet. If your pet’s food contains aflatoxins, the toxins could accumulate in your pet’s system as they continue to eat the same food. If your pet eats moldy corn, grains, or peanuts, they can also get aflatoxin poisoning. Peanut butter can also cause this issue, which is why it is so important to buy a natural pet safe peanut butter if used as a treat or to disguise pills.

What Are the Symptoms?

If you notice any of the following symptoms, your pet could be suffering from aflatoxin poisoning: • Sluggishness • Vomiting • Jaundice (yellow tint to their eyes, gums, or skin due to liver damage) • Loss of appetite • Unexplained bruising or bleeding • Diarrhea

Paw Pals Meet Milo

The Impact of Corn On the Pet Industry

For the last 17 years I have been blessed to work in this industry. This also means for the past 17 years I have been seeing dogs get sick and even dying when they are fed foods that contain corn. Besides corn being covered with glyphosate and raised with GMO’s, if not stored or handled properly mold can grow causing a myriad of problems including aflatoxin poisoning. Corn is one of the hardest proteins to digest. Cows have 4 stomach chambers and still have problems breaking it down. I also do not have to explain to anyone after they eat corn what their stool looks like, ha! This is proof of how much is absorbed and cannot imagine what it does to dogs and cats who have small digestive tracts. The reason why the grain-free industry started was because of the negative effects corn was having on dogs. Unfortunately, beneficial grains such as brown rice, quinoa, millet, and spelt have been pushed aside because of this. What we really should be looking at is how much protein is derived from meat and how little grain or vegetables are in food, instead of putting grain and grain-free against each other like it’s a political race.

What to Do If You Think Your Dog Is Eating Food with Corn?

First, read the label. Most quality brands will specifically say their food contains no corn on the packaging. Check the ingredients list on the back of the label to see if corn is listed. If you see corn listed, look for an alternative food. I recommend visiting your local pet store with a nutrition specialist who is knowledgeable. I believe all dogs should detox twice a year with milk thistle for 4-6 weeks to help cleanse their system and highly

recommend doing this regardless of if your pet is being fed a diet that contains corn. If your pet is exhibiting any signs of aflatoxin poisoning, take them to a veterinarian immediately. Lastly, speak to an expert on a diet that is right for you pet. I would be happy to review what you are currently feeding your pet and recommend a diet plan that is best for them. Sign-up for a free one-on-one nutrition consult with me at www.dogperfect.com/nutritionconsult.

Milo moved to Sarasota in March and he is adjusting nicely to the beach life. He’s a 2-year-old cocker spaniel who is very social and loves going to the dog beach, parks, and taking daily walks. His two most favorite things are retrieving his ball and food. He would eat non-stop if allowed and he even has the bad habit of scratching on the refrigerator to let someone know he needs a snack. Submit your Paw Pal to the Siesta Sand at info@27statemedia.com. (Kyle Baker, senior pet food nutritionist at DOGPerfect, has a passion for educating pet parents on the power of nutrition and how it can improve their pet’s lives with proper food, supplements and treats. DOGPerfect is a locally owned and operated pet supply store with locations in The Landings, University Park, and Lakewood Ranch. Visit www.DOGPerfect. com for more information and to sign-up for a free one-on-one nutrition consult with Kyle.)

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Big G’s Oyster Happy Hour from 3-6 Every day 1/2 Priced House Oysters

Siesta Key Oyster Bar, or “SKOB” as the locals call it, is the hangout with the laid-back, beachy atmosphere that will get you right into the Island Spirit. One of the things that set SKOB apart from the other restaurants in Siesta Key Village is that we have some of the best food on the Key.

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Submitted artist rendering

Deficiencies found in Calle Miramar hotel application By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com Sarasota County staff has found numerous deficiencies in the application for an eight-story, 170-room hotel slated for four parcels between Calle Miramar and Beach Road, as outlined in a Jan. 13 response to the project team. Staff pointed out that the materials submitted to the county in December do not address “all associated Comprehensive Plan goals, objectives and policies.” Along with the construction plans, the proposal calls for amendments to the county’s Comprehensive Plan and the Unified Development Code that would eliminate residential density requirements for any hotel on a barrier island within the county’s jurisdiction. Among examples cited in regard to the deficiencies, the staff document says, “No analysis has been provided regarding potential impacts to hurricane evacuation and evacuation times. Please provide an analysis of anticipated impacts to the evacuation network both in and out of season as tropical and sub-tropical type systems can appear at any time of the year. It is recommended that you coordinate Sarasota County Emergency Management staff in developing this analysis.” Further, staff has raised concerns about transportation issues and how the development would comply with policies regarding neighborhood compatibility and smart-growth planning. In regard to the coastal construction and hurricane evacuation issues, the county sufficiency document explains, “The Coastal Disaster Management chapter [of the Comprehensive Plan] is required by statute for coastal counties. The core values of this chapter for Sarasota County include (1) Limiting public expenditures in designated coastal high-hazard area to necessary public services and facilities; (2) Encouraging appropriate land uses and

densities in the coastal highhazard area; (3) Ensuring safe and timely evacuation and sheltering of county residents in event of natural disaster; (4) Providing county residents ongoing training opportunities and education in emergency preparedness and timely information in case of a natural disaster.” Siesta Key residents have decried the project team’s proposal for getting rid of the residential density consideration for hotels on the island in large part because of traffic congestion and the inability of the county to widen the road network. County Public Works Director Spencer Anderson has told the Sarasota County Commission that Siesta Key’s roads are constrained, and he has said property owners are reluctant to allow any of their land to be used for transportation modifications. Commissioners have indicated reluctance to use eminent domain powers to try to improve areas of particular concern. During the Jan. 11 neighborhood workshop that county regulations required the hotel developers to conduct, some participants stressed their worries about hurricane evacuations, with potentially 340 people — two per room — in the hotel. The group that owns the hotel site is based in New York City, the application says. The long-time lessee of the property is Robert Anderson, a Sarasota RE/MAX real estate agent. Land use concerns In regard to other issues that need to be addressed, the staff letter noted the following: • Policy 1.2.17 points out that, “As reflected in Sarasota County zoning standards, potential incompatibilities between land uses due to the density, intensity, character or type of use proposed, shall be mitigated through site and architectural design techniques including but not limited to any or all of the following: the provision and

location of open space, perimeter buffers, landscaping and berms; the location and screening of sources of light, noise, mechanical equipment, refuse areas, delivery areas and storage areas; and the location of road access to minimize adverse impacts, increased building setbacks, step downs in building heights.” During the neighborhood workshop, residents of Beach Villas at the Oasis, which is immediately adjacent to the hotel site, voiced concerns about various issues, including the fact that the hotel would tower over their property. Other people expressed worries about whether noise emanating from a rooftop bar would disturb residents. Sarasota attorney and project team member William Merrill explained that, since the goal would be to ensure the best possible experience for the guests, he was certain the bar would not be a source of noise complaints. • Policy 2.3.7 says, “In established residential areas, incompatible land uses shall be discouraged if traffic is generated on abutting local streets in amounts that would substantially and adversely affect traffic flow, traffic control and public safety.” Again, during the Jan. 11 workshop, Calle Miramar homeowners expressed worries about the traffic associated with the hotel creating congestion on a street that mostly has residential properties. Merrill responded that he expects guests would arrive and leave at a wide variety of times, thus decreasing the likelihood of problems. Merrill also noted his anticipation that guests would walk or use public transportation or services such as Uber, leaving their own vehicles in the hotel parking garage for most of their stays. Finally, Policy 2.9.3 points out, “The rezoning of additional lands on the barrier islands for commercial or office uses shall be prohibited.”

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MARCH 2021

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Resident fights against Stickney Point Road traffic signal By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com Siesta Key resident James Wallace readily concedes that he was late in joining the fight against the Siesta Promenade project. Nonetheless, since the County Commission approved that mixed-use development in December 2018, Wallace has been a leader in the fight. Wallace’s latest salvo is an effort to convince the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) officials that a new traffic signal authorized at the intersection of Avenue B and C on Stickney Point Road fails to meet transportation planning standards. And if he can stop that light from being installed, he said, Siesta Promenade cannot be built, thanks to a County Commission stipulation. As designed by Benderson Development Co., Siesta Promenade would encompass 414 apartments/condominiums, a 130-room hotel standing about 80 feet tall, 133,000 square feet of retail space and 7,000 square feet of office space. The structures would stand on about 24 acres in the northwest quadrant of the intersection of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road. On Feb. 4, during a regular Siesta Key Association (SKA) meeting, Wallace pointed out that if both Siesta Promenade

Wallace

and a 120-room hotel that Siesta businessman Gary Kompothecras has proposed on Old Stickney Point Road are constructed, “The Key will never be the same. People need to know that.” In late December, Cape Coral attorney Ralf Brookes filed a petition with FDOT on Wallace’s behalf, seeking an administrative hearing on the stoplight plan. FDOT issued an order of dismissal of the petition in late January, but it allowed Wallace to submit an amended version. Therefore, on Feb. 4, Brookes filed that second document. Brookes pointed out that if the Avenue B and C stoplight is installed, “Clearly there will be additional lives placed at risk, and even lost, due to emergency

vehicle delays to and from Siesta Key and emergency rooms on the mainland,” as the vehicles would have to traverse the section of Stickney Point Road with the new traffic signal, plus a drawbridge. Moreover, Brookes wrote, “There will be more time lost in stop-and-go Siesta Key-related traffic by persons who reside or work on Siesta Key as they must use the road segment affected by this. “More persons will simply be marooned at home and not be willing to endure attempting trips on and off the Key during post-COVID tourist season beach-traffic rush hours between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. “These are historical facts, and the result of a future virtual certainty, in the opinion of [Wallace’s] traffic engineering expert.” Brookes further noted that the level of service for the intersection of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road during the afternoon peak drive time is an “F.” “An ‘F’ represents near ‘gridlock’ conditions,” Brookes continued, “where every vehicle moves in lockstep with the vehicle in front of it and traffic nearly comes to a stop. The approval of additional development adding to traffic congestion in the area of [that intersection] was already the subject of FDOT concern

[in a 2016 letter to Sarasota County’s Transportation Planning Division manager], and as a result Sarasota County conditioned approval of [Siesta Promenade] on FDOT’s review of the [need for a traffic signal at Avenue B and C].” Brookes emphasized that after the traffic signal is in place, “There will be no remedy, no review, no chance for any oversight or citizen participation as contemplated by Florida’s Administrative Procedures Act [Chapter 120 of the Florida Statutes, which] was created to provide for input into agency decision making by affected persons prior to a final agency decision. “It would seem prudent that FDOT either rescind its current decision or grant a formal or at least an informal Hearing or meeting with FDOT on the matter.”

Details of original petition

On Dec. 30, Brookes filed the initial document in the case, seeking “assignment of an independent administrative law judge” to hear the Wallace petition. The goal, Brookes noted, would be to gain such a judge’s recommendation of denial of the FDOT permit for the stoplight or a modification of that permit. Brookes emphasized that no

Happiness is…Hard Work Is that right? Surely there’s a typo in that headline. Can hard work really lead to happiness? Absolutely. Just ask Jerry Williams, owner of Abel’s Ice Cream. Through the hard work and effort of Jerry and his team, Abel’s Ice Cream is getting ready to celebrate ten years in business next month.

Jerry and Jill Williams, owners of Abel’s Ice Cream

“We are so fortunate to be in business is such a great, loyal community,” Williams said. “Of course, being close to the best beaches in the world and serving the most delicious ice cream around is also a plus!”

The excitement is palpable around Abel’s as they gear up for a fantastic month-long celebration in April to honor this great accomplishment. Stop by and see for yourself while enjoying a cup or cone of one of their award-winning flavors. They’re gearing up for warmer weather by featuring Key Lime Pie (Delicious Key Lime ice cream filled with chunks of baked pie crust.) and Coconut Pineapple (Coconut Tropical Coconut ice cream with a delicious and chunky swirl of pineapple...a tropical paradise awaits!)

Abel’s Ice Cream is located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota in the South Bridge Plaza. Open Sunday through Thursday from Noon-9:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday from Noon-10 pm. Learn more online at our updated website, www.abelsicecream.com or connect with us on Facebook and Instagram. Awarded their Certificate of Excellence for SIX years straight!

intersection exists at the planned location of the Avenue B and C traffic signal. Among his arguments, Brookes pointed to sections of FDOT rules and the Florida Administrative Code in contending that, given “the addition of significant development at the intersection of [U.S. 41] and Stickney Point Road,” plus the “significant role of Stickney Point [Road] as a gateway access to Siesta Key, the scarcity of alternative accesses, and the long-term life of [Siesta Promenade], FDOT should have taken a longer-term and more comprehensive approach to evaluating this traffic signal proposal.” In an Oct. 26 letter from FDOT to Brookes — which is included among exhibits with Wallace’s petitions — Mark Mathes, a district traffic operations engineer, wrote, “Based on the traffic analyses and submissions by the applicant, Benderson Development Company LLC, the Department has determined that a traffic signal is warranted at Avenue B & C. The proposed signal met warrants for 8-hour vehicular volume and for 4-hour vehicular volume.” Brookes responded by saying, “The flaw in using intersection turning movement count data is that only the vehicles that actually pass through the intersection are counted, but not the vehicles that arrive at the location but cannot pass through due to operational and capacity limitations.” Thus, Brookes continued, the Kimley-Horn consulting firm’s traffic analysis for Siesta Promenade “does not address the ‘traffic demand’ issue, even though there is quite a bit of testimonial and photographic evidence from citizens documenting extensive queues and routine congestion. An analysis of traffic demand vs, actual ‘constrained’ flow … should have been required,” he added, during FDOT’s review of the Benderson application for the permit for the traffic signal.

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

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brain decipher intricate details of relevant sounds for better speech understanding with less effort and the ability to remember more. All in a rechargeable hearing aid that delivers direct streaming from iPhone® and Android™*. And with the sound *Android devices need to support ASHA to allow direct connectivity to Oticon More. Please visit oticon.com/support/compatibility for more information clarity of Oticon More, you won’t miss out on life’s special moments. Now that’s More. *Android devices need to support ASHA to allow direct connectivity to Oticon More. Please visit oticon.com/support/compatibility for more information

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One of the rarest members of the heron family in North America, the reddish egret is a treat to behold on and around Siesta Key. It appears in two color forms: dark morph and white morph. The juvenile pictured here is a dark morph as defined by its rust-colored plumage mixed with dark bluish-gray patches. The all-white morph is so rare that its snowy egret and great egret cousins are frequently mistaken for it. This scrawny teenager carefully surveys the

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salty surf flowing in and out of the breakwaters while waiting for a small fish or crustacean to stab and grab. Famous for its agile and acrobatic hunting dance in the coastal shallows, the dazzling choreography of the reddish egret is virtually unmatched. As a mature adult, this long-legged wader is easily identified by shaggy head and neck plumage that resembles a lion’s regal mane. During the breeding season, watch for the reddish egret’s bill to assume a bright pink accent color in sharp contrast with the black tip.

Jan Baumgartner’s handmade notecards showcase Siesta Key natural scenic beauty and wildlife. Siesta Key Siesta Key notecards are available in two locations: BLVD Beachwear 5239 Ocean Blvd 941-349-2583 Shelly’s Gift and Christmas Boutique 4420 S Tamiami Trail 941-260-8905

Blooming This Month: Clerodendrum shooting star

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Clerodendrum shooting star, or starburst, is a droughtresistant, stunningly beautiful large tropical shrub that is a fast and vigorous grower. Quickly reaching 6 feet to 8 feet in height and width, it is a great background or large shrub accent. In the spring, this plant explodes with clusters of large tubular white and pink blooms with leaves that are green on top and purple on the underside. If you have the room for a large shrub, this is a wonderful addition for your gardens. The bonus is it grows in full sun or semi-shade. Extra bonus

is it is a nectar planting that attracts butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds. They are currently in bloom in the Butterfly Garden at Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Boulevard of the Arts. Upcoming events there include “Symphony in the Gardens” at 2:30 p.m. March 21, “Spring Fling” at 9 a.m. April 18, and “Mother’s Day Music in the Gardens” at 2 p.m. May 9. Visit SarasotaGardenClub.org for information. Submitted by Kay Weber, Botanical Gardens Chair, Sarasota Garden Club

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Sheriff’s Report Jan. 12 Vehicle theft

A vehicle owner called the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office after his Dodge Ram 2500 truck with blackedout rims was stolen from a condominium parking lot. Video surveillance caught three suspects racing onto the property and making a beeline to the truck and another vehicle parked nearby. They entered the other unlocked vehicle but, finding no keys, quickly got out. They then all entered the unlocked truck, were able to start it because the key fob was left inside, and exited the property in the truck. DNA evidence was collected from the rejected vehicle and video surveillance was taken into evidence. The case remains open.

Jan. 17 Residential burglary At approximately 8 p.m. on Jan. 17, a woman secured her Raleigh bicycle to her car port with a chain lock. At approximately 8 a.m. the next morning, she returned to

make the discovery that the chain had been cut and the bike stolen. She valued her bicycle at $1,000 and provided photographic evidence.

Jan. 18 Supermarket theft Two females entered a Village market at approximately 2:30 p.m. on Jan. 18 and, after careful consideration, selected two bottles of Dog Fish Head beer and three bottles of Fat Tire beer and placed them into a backpack. They left the store after apparently overlooking the checkout lines and cashier. The stolen beverage inventory is valued at approximately $12. They were last seen in the area of Siesta Key Village.

Jan. 19 Electric bike theft A man reported that his electric bicycle was stolen sometime between Jan. 19 and Jan. 21. 1-19-21 and 1-21-21. The bright-orange battery-operated Bintelli electric bicycle was cable-locked to a rack in the parking lot under his condominium building. It is

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A vehicle owner was notified at 6 a.m. on Jan. that the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office had located his 2019 white BMW in Manatee County. The owner had last seen the vehicle at 10 p.m. on Jan. 24. and had left his key fob inside the vehicle. Coincidentally, his girlfriend had her vehicle stolen from the same location, at the same time.

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Feb. 1 Bike theft A resident discovered that his bicycle and security chain were stolen, but the bike cover was left behind. He last saw the bicycle at 10:30 a.m. on Jan. 31. It is a flat black 3G women’s beach cruiser with purple rims and chain guard, wire basket, bell, and lights for the front and rear. It is valued at $500.

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CRAFT BEERS Get That Old Florida Flavor! CAPTAIN CURT’S CAPTAIn

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The power of our minds has been researched, examined and observed since the beginnings of time as we know it. And with good reason, for without mental preparedness we can do nothing physically. Every effect comes from the causation of thought from the mind. Thousands upon thousands of books have been written about the mind, neuroscience, and our beliefs because the truth is so evident that all form comes into reality through the intention of our thoughts. Many great philosophers and teachers of the past have also taught about this same mental power connection. Knowing this great truth unlocks the power that lies within us if we choose to believe it and use it. In fact, at this very moment we are all using the same power of mental thought, we may just not know it yet. We possess the power to create any kind of life we desire with focused thought and persistent effort. If we have great thoughts, we bring into our lives corresponding great things. If we have negative, poor, pessimistic thoughts, we bring those things into our experiences as well. To live our best life, one can deduce that we need to begin to take inventory of our thoughts and make a conscious effort to shift our mindset to one of a positive state of mind. I haven’t always had a positive mindset. No, in fact in my youth one would scarcely find me with a smile on my face or a positive word to share. This is a great shift of who I am today, decades later. But this didn’t happen by accident. I was led to great lessons that opened up my mind and expanded my power of thought as I left the world of pessimism for a world far greater. Open-minded

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optimism. I indeed experienced a great transformation in my mind, and what ensued was also an equal change in my life experiences! I am forever grateful. So, how can we begin to change or improve our mindset if we desire to make progress in any area of our lives? The answer is willingness. Yes, we just need a desire in our heart to make a change. We must create an intention of thoughts that seek a positive shift and begin to look at things differently. This may be very challenging after we make that first decision to make a change. Why? Because the power of our subconscious minds and pre-programming rules our thoughts 97% of the day, so we are getting a constant re-run of the same thoughts/feelings from days/years before. (This in fact is the broken record of all records.) This requires that we make a conscious notable daily effort of new mind conditioning practices to overcome these past-repeating, often self-defeating thoughts. But it IS possible, and also very worth it indeed. One of the first lessons I learned after I opened myself up to willingness and understood that I had to overcome subconscious mind patterning, was a beautiful shift I wish to share: “Have a mind that is opened

to everything and attached to nothing.” Sounds easy, right? However, as you explore the meaning of this mental lesson, you will discover that we have an entire life filled with past beliefs and attachments. Many we have acquired through years of cultural, social, religious, and economical influences. Most of these came in our early years and were simply downloaded programs and self-limiting beliefs that we accepted as truth. Some are true, many are not. If we can learn to let go and be in a place of openness, what we may find is a mind that slowly transforms to a world of endless possibilities instead of constant limitations. We may find our mind focusing on all the solutions, instead of the repeating problems. Or better yet, we may find that all the negative circumstances that surround our life are actually positive lessons pushing us toward opportunities to evolve into your best self. Just imagine if everything that came your way, instead of closing down, you just thought to yourself, “Hmmm, that’s a very interesting point, I never thought of it that way.” After all, we don’t really know enough to be a pessimist. Just know that our thoughts and attitudes determine our mental state and ultimately creates our lives. Our mindset determines the way we think and feel and ultimately constructs our personal reality. When we begin to practice this one mental exercise throughout our day, it can change our entire perspective about the world and as a result change our lives for the better.

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LIVE MUSIC PAGE 32

VILLAGE MAP pgs 24 -25

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 47

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 26 GULF GATE SHOPS pg 35

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Flag Ceremony, Patriot’s Pier at Sunset Point, 10 Beach Road By Mike Cosentino

If you’re reading this, please thank a teacher. And if you enjoy your freedoms, please thank a veteran. Twice each day, we proudly honor the sacrifices of our military and service personnel in protecting our country and our freedoms. Every morning at 8 a.m. we raise our flag to Reveille. At sunset, we lower it to Taps. We are the land of the free because of the brave. The tattoo on Army Ranger Staff Sgt. Nick Fultz’s arm reads, “People sleep peaceful in their beds at night because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf.” Make no mistake, folks, we all want peace. But rarely is that peace given freely. More often than not, it must be fought for. Once secured, it must be defended. Our goal is to give the respect and thanks due to those who provide the blanket of freedom under which we work, play, and sleep. Sgt. Fultz’s duties included tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. Twice the Humvee in which he traveled was blown up by enemy IEDs. Shrapnel from the second explosion forced his medical retirement after 12 years of service. His younger brother, Army Staff Sgt. Mark Fultz, is currently stationed at Fort Bragg. So far, he’s done two tours in the Middle East. You’re always in our thoughts and prayers, Marky Mark. Two of the boys’ uncles, Tom and Terry, also served overseas in the Army. Their “Pap Pap” was an Army paratrooper who survived being dropped behind enemy lines in WWII. Like so many others, the Fultz family has

honored, served, and protected our great Nation. I owe an extra debt of gratitude to the family. Brothers Tom, Terry, Herbie, Ed, and their father, Fred, all worked with my father’s construction company. They’re very much responsible for teaching me the skills I rely upon every day. Since his return to civilian life, Nick works with his dad, Herbie. I’m fortunate to have them help out on my remodeling projects here on the island. Happily, Herbie doesn’t yell at me as much as he used to. I appreciate the publisher giving me the opportunity to shine a well-deserved light of recognition, appreciation, and gratitude on the Fultz family. Too often, our heroes are both unsung and unknown. That’s what our flag ceremony is all about -- taking a moment to express our appreciation for and to pay tribute to those who, past and present, provide the blanket of freedom under which we peacefully sleep. Especially in these contentious times, our ceremony provides us all with an opportunity to celebrate our common ground as citizens of these UNITED States of America. Please join us if you’re able. Enter “10 Beach Road” into Google Maps for directions. Our nightly ceremony can be seen on Facebook at “Patriot’s Pier at Sunset Point.” Should anyone have any suggestions or wish to have us fly the flag of your loved one on his/her birthday, please leave me a message at (941) 346-2584. ‘Merica!

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Island Chatter and the doors were locked. Officers still are investigating that one, Smith added, trying to determine how the vehicle was stolen; he did not believe it had been recovered. Therefore, Smith stressed to the association members, only one of those incidents was what he would describe as “legitimate.” As he has many times in the past, Smith urged residents to keep their vehicles locked when they are not with the vehicles and to be sure to take their keys with them. Additionally, Smith reported, “We’ve had quite a spike in bicycle thefts on the Key.” Most of those incidents have occurred in the area around Stickney Point Road, he continued. As a result of calls, Smith said, the Sheriff’s Office has increased patrols in that part of the island. Smith further noted a few reports of assaults in Siesta

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Village, usually around the closing times of the bars. “Nothing too big or too out of the ordinary with that,” he said. And Sheriff’s Office personnel still are trying to educate people that a county ordinance forbids dogs on the beach unless the dogs are service animals. Moreover, Smith said, county regulations forbid dogs in parks that do not have designated areas for the animals. “We’ve been getting a lot of complaints,” he continued, about dogs in Glebe Park. Then Smith said, as usual for this time of year, the Sheriff’s Office had begun work on its Spring Break planning for the Key, with more patrols set to begin in March. An extra five or six deputies would be assigned to the island during the day and at night, he added. The department’s mounted patrol also will be

present on the beach, he said. “We want to do our best,” Smith said, to make certain that people have fun but that they follow the county rules, as well. In response to a question, Smith reported that the Key did seem busier than usual in January. In fact, he said, he had talked with a number of business owners to find out whether they were experiencing upticks in numbers of customers, compared to previous months of January. Some reported that their numbers were the same as in the past or better, he added. The COVID-19 pandemic remains underway in the state and in the county. Virginia Haley, president of the county’s tourism office — Visit Sarasota County — has told county leaders over the past months that, while the number of international tourists has remained practically nonexistent because of travel

concerns or restrictions, many residents of other parts of Florida and other states have been coming to Sarasota County. Given medical researchers’ findings over the past months that the transmission of the novel coronavirus happens more readily in indoor settings, people have been more inclined to visit areas where they can pursue a wide range of outdoor activities, Haley has emphasized. During the meeting, Smith noted that he and his Sheriff’s Office colleagues had been seeing “a lot of people from out of state.”

Tides groundbreaking

On Feb. 2, Bay Village broke ground on the Tides of Bay Village, a new memory-care h ousehold. The Tides is located at 8611 Vamo Rd. in Sarasota, located two-tenths of a mile south of the village’s main campus. The Tides will be a 14-apartment household for memory-care residents.

Pictured from left at the Feb. 2 groundbreaking event for the Tides of Bay Village are Jennifer Grimes, chief operating officer; Eric Nichols, chief executive officer; Tom Taylor, chairman; Rich Fredd, senior project manager; board members Andy Olwert, Gerry Hailey, Sally Seeger, Bob Sherwood, Kevin Hicks; Christina Wizba, chief financial officer; and Mark Freeman, president. Submitted phot

fashion’style + art

ACCOMMODATIONS Beach Palms ........................................................ B-#74 Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa............. Map-A #38A ATM / BANKS PNC ATM........................................... Map-C #61 Sun Trust Bank & ATM........................Map-E #4 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blase Café..........................................Map-A #38 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar.............. Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s........................................... Map-B #33 My Village Pub............................ Map-C #53/54 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 Bean Coffeehouse............................Map-D #62 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company........ Map-B #31 DRUGSTORE Davidson Drugs...............................Map-D #65

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FASHION & ACCESSORIES Beach Bazaar’s & Swin Shack........ Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear.................................Map-B #30 Casa Smeralda Fashion’Style............. D #12-11 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More........Map-D #64 Foxy Lady Fashions.........................Map-A #40 Ganja Mon Vibes................................. Map-D #9 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions........... Map-B #44 Island Boutique..................................Map-B #50 Island Style......................................... Map-C #53 Lilly Pulitzer.....................................Map-D #66 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

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Beach Bazaar..................................... Map-C #28 Gilligan’s Gift Store............................Map-B #32 Island Trader...................................... Map-C #51 Sea Pleasures & Treasures................ Map-C #29 Siesta Key Outfitters........................Map-D #13 HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ............... Map-D #10 Siesta Healing...................................... Map-D #9 Siesta Key Fitness............................ Map-B #73 ICE CREAM/SWEETS Big Olaf Creamery............................. Map-C #52 Curly Cream Ice Cream...................... Map-D #9 Local Chill Ice Cream......................Map-D #60 Made in Rome Organic Gelato........ Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts....................... Map-C #24 Stefano Versace Gelato..................... Map-C #50 SubZero Ice Cream/Yogurt............. Map-D #16 The Fudge Factory............................ Map-A #36 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs...............................Map-D #65 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company........ Map-B #31 JEWELRY Created Gems.................................... Map-C #51 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers................ Map-D #9

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LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club....................Map-D #70 Gilligan’s........................................... Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wine Bar........................ Map-C #61 Siesta Village Liquors..................... Map-C #26 The Beach Club.................................. Map-D #22

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Island Chatter

Andrew Monroe event a big draw

A group of 335 participants supported the eighth-annual Andrew Monroe Memorial 5k Run/Walk on Jan. 10 on Siesta Beach.

From left, Jasmine Prince, female overall winner; Stacey Monroe, race director; and Conner Wozniak, male overall winner.

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Continued from p revious page

The race is held in memory of Andrew Monroe, a life taken too soon in 2011. The funds generated from this event produce scholarships for seniors involved in soccer, track, and JROTC at Riverview High School. Also, there will be two $1,000 scholarships in perpetuity through the Andrew Monroe Memorial Scholarship Fund at the Sarasota Community Foundation. Due to COVID-19, this was one of the first live races in a year on Siesta Key Beach and the first race in the Manasota Track Club race series. The overall winners for this event were Conner Wozniak (male overall winner) and Jasmine Prince (female overall winner).

Update on the Grand Canal Regeneration Project Before the end of February, leaders of the Siesta Key Association’s Grand Canal

Regeneration Project hoped to have a total of 80 mini reefs installed in four specific areas of the island, association director Margaret Jean Cannon told members during the nonprofit’s Feb. 4 meeting. Altogether, she pointed out, 878 homes on the 9-mile-long Grand Canal have docks, based on research the association has undertaken. As of Feb. 4, she continued, 60 of those homes — 7% — had mini reefs installed. The project team hoped to add 20 more in February, Cannon said. The devices, made of durable polypropylene, are produced by a Florida nonprofit organization, Ocean Habitats. As explained during past meetings, the mini reefs are designed as “homes” for sea life such as oysters, which are called “filter feeders,” because they eat organisms that degrade the water. As the water quality improves,

juvenile fish are attracted to the area around the mini reefs. Phil Chiocchio, of Sarasota, a member of the Sarasota Bay Fisheries Forum — who introduced association members to mini reefs in 2019 — has offered hope that the water in the Grand Canal will be of far better

quality by 2025, which will be the 100-year anniversary of the canal’s creation. “It would be great if neighbors can start talking to their neighbors,” he said to promote the initiative. A map Cannon presented the Zoom meeting participants

Submitted Image Continued on page 29

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MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store........................................Map-E #6 Morton’s Siesta Market................... Map-C #25 MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage...................Map-B #35 The Spa at Calle Minorga..................Map-E #74 MEDICAL - DENTAL Siesta Village Dentistry.................... Map-D #63 Siesta Dental........................................Map-B #49 Siesta Key Physical Therapy............ Map-D #20 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce...................Map-D #67 Prime Audio Video..............................Map-E #1 Roberti Enterprises........................... Map-A #39 Village Arcade.................................... Map-C #53 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Attorney Fleming.................................Map-E #1 Edward Jones Investments.............Map-D #68 Smith Architects................................... Map-E 74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Amy Robinson RE................................Map-E #1 Beach Palms................................................... B-74 Coldwell Banker Realty.................... Map-D #20 EXP Realty............................................Map-E #4 Judith Guzzi & Assoc........................Map-E #74 Keller Williams Real Estate.............. Map-D #11 Michael Saunders Realty.................Map-E #72 ReMax Alliance Group................... Map-C #29 RentSiestaKey.com.............................. Map-D #9 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate....... Map-A #39 Siesta Key Rental Prop..................... Map-D #10 The Ringling Beach House Rentals......Map-D #9 Tropical Sands Accommodations........ Map-D #67

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CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club.......................................... C-3 #13 Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 COFFEE SHOPS Coffee Garden................................... B-3 #8 DELIS / BAKERIES Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 Nutritious You......................................... C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery......B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Fin Island Co.............................................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion......................................B-3 #1 Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14 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 Sunshine Sand Hidden Treasures...... D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Sanctuary Siesta Key............................... A-5 #12 Siesta Key Salon & Spa........................... D-3 #17 The Key Spa & Salon.............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus ........................................B-3 #8 Siesta Creamery....................................... C-3 #14 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson 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 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 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Beckmann Properties.............................. C-2 #15 Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent............................................ C-3 #14 Waterside Realty.................................... C-3 #17 RESTAURANTS / CAFES

Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7 City Pizza Italian Restaurant................. D-3 #17 Clayton’s Siesta Grille...............................B-3 #9 Daiquiri Deck.................................................A-3 #2 Spear Fish Grill..............................................A-4 #5 Toasted Mango Cafe....................................C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 FIN Island Co. .......................................... A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta........................................... A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak ........................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina.................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Key Jetski . ...................................... A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club...................... A-5 #12

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Siesta Snapshots

MARCH 2021

27th State Media LLC

Photos by Trebor Britt

“International BBQ” – The Quatlini and Andino families enjoying a barbecue on Siesta Beach. Only two of these Argentinians had ever been to the Key. They are (from left) Alex, Alex, Mariana, Luisina, Sol, Maite and Sabeni (4). Sabeni especially enjoyed the wonderful kid’s playground nearby.

“Guarding Siesta” – Siesta Beach’s newest lifeguard, Sarah Cislo (21) from Brownstown, MI. A graduate of State College of Florida, she has a CNA background and turned down an opening in a nursing program after discovering an opening to become a lifeguard. Responding to what she enjoys most about lifeguarding she said, “I love my co-workers honestly. They make it so much fun and who wouldn’t like to sit on the beach and get paid for it, right?”

“Young Sculptors” – You may recognize the Florida resident and subject matter of these young sculptors from Argentina. Agustina (10) and Juan Ignacio Gonzalez Iribe (13) spent just more than an hour sculpting this famous cartoon character. The idea came to them after visiting Universal Studios and Disney just a few days before.

“A Real Click” – Mary Ann Crosta of Boca Raton and Brad Clark of Sarasota enjoying beverages and mouth watering pizza at the Mellow Mushroom on Tamiami Trail. Mary Ann is a flight attendant for Allegiant and Brad worked in the film industry. The pizza is so incredible, before the pandemic Brad was eating at the Mellow Mushroom a couple times a week.

“Happy to have a Pushy Sister” – Saige (2) is delighted by the pushes of her big sister Quinn Greer (5) and is enjoying the wonderful children’s playground steps from Siesta Beach. This Illinois family is on its second visit to the Key after discovering Siesta Beach when they visited their grandfather about a year ago. “This is now our new vacation spot.”

“Spike ball on the Beach” – John Coulman (19) of Tampa demonstrates his skill playing spike ball near the Gulf of Mexico shoreline. He attends Hillsborough Community College studying to be a high school teacher and possibly a college professor.

“Super Bowl Viewer” – Lyle Wagler (22) of Plainville, IN imitating a Tom Brady touch pass on the powdery sands of Siesta Beach. He has worked at the same job framing houses since he was 16, from pouring the cement slab to erecting all the studs to the roof. Wagler’s passion is playing slow pitch softball with his friends on a team that travels throughout the state of Indiana.

“Looking Super” – Sarasota’s Caylee Scanlon enjoyed being a swashbuckling hostess at the Crescent Club’s Feb. 7 Super Bowl party. Photo John Morton. “The Nerf of these Kids” – Armed with every Nerf toy imaginable, nearly 70 young people of all ages enjoyed Sarasota Battle Games at Glebe Park on Siesta Key. Participants gather once a month for many games of “Capture the Flag.” Organizer Mike Passanite ensures everyone is wearing safety eye protection and players are prohibited from using foul language. Even a few adults relive their childhood by getting involved. To find out more, search the group Sarasota Battle Games on Facebook.

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Sand expert criticizes addition to Lido Key’s beach Says sand is loaded with sharp shells By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com The director of the Program for the Study of Developed Shorelines at Western Carolina University in Cullowhee, N.C., recently published a report criticizing the quality of sand on the renourished Lido Key Beach. The title of Robert Young’s Jan. 27 LinkedIn article is “This beach will cut your foot!” In his opening, Young pointed out that when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers was working on plans for the Lido Key Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project, its staff members “rejected an offshore borrow area because they determined that the material would not be compatible with the native beach sand nor meet state of Florida guidelines for beach quality sand. “Instead,” Young continued, “the Corps, along with the city of Sarasota, targeted nearby sand shoals within Big Pass, an inlet separating Lido and Siesta keys. Big Pass had never previously been dredged or manipulated — a rarity these days. The sand was closer and cheaper,” Young added. “Bingo!” On Jan. 27, he wrote, he had his first opportunity “to see the highquality material that the Corps, the city and the Lido residents were after.” He provided a series of photos

to illustrate his contention that “a significant portion of the beach is shell hash.” “In my opinion,” he continued, “this material doesn’t come close to matching the native beach sand in this part of the Florida Gulf Coast. You can’t even walk barefoot on much of it.” The Program for the Study of Developed Shorelines is a “joint Duke University/Western Carolina University venture,” the program website explains. “The primary mission of PSDS is to conduct scientific research into coastal processes and to translate that science into management and policy recommendations through a variety of professional and public outreach mechanisms,” the website adds. “The program specializes in evaluating the design and implementation of coastal engineering projects.” Altogether, a corps spokesman said, 683,084 cubic yards of sand was removed from borrow areas in Big Sarasota Pass for placement on Lido Key, which state environmental leaders had called “critically eroded.” The state permit for the project allowed up to 1.3 million cubic yards of sand to be dredged from the pass. However, the solicitation that the Corps

published in December 2019 for the undertaking placed the expected total at 710,000 cubic yards. In his article, Young did provide what he called “full disclosure” about having served as a witness in a state proceeding in December 2017, in which leaders of two Siesta Key organizations sought to prevent the use of Big Pass as the sand source for the Lido project. During that Division of Administrative Hearings proceeding, the Siesta Key Association and Save Our Siesta Sand 2 sought to prevent the Florida Department of Environmental Protection from issuing the permit to the Corps and the city of Sarasota for the Lido initiative. The city is the local sponsor of the renourishment project. Young noted in his Jan. 27 article that the administrative law judge ruled for the Corps and the city, but Young also pointed out that FDEP “vigorously defends all permits they issue and believe me, they issue permits for all the applications they get.” Young further acknowledged, “I imagine that if you are a condo owner, you are more than happy to have a wide, flat beach in front of your investment. The waves are no longer lapping up against the bulkheads as they once were. And,

if you don’t look too closely,” Young continued, “the beach doesn’t look too bad.” Nonetheless, Young wrote, “The beach is bad. It is much coarser than promised. … With everyone, everywhere building beaches these days, poor sediment quality is becoming an important issue. We need better post-project assessments to see how the design predicted the outcome.” In response to a request for comments from the city of Sarasota about the sand quality, City Engineer Alexandrea DavisShaw wrote in a Feb. 1 email, “The location where the dredging started, at the east segment of the borrow area, had material that was more shelly than the area on the west side section of the borrow area. In addition, the contractor found many tires in the eastern area, which they removed, helping to clean that area up.” DavisShaw then pointed out, “The Army Corps did a site visit last week and collected postconstruction samples. Jen Coor, a Corps geologist, said that she was “very happy” with the material and will proceed with the permit required sieving and analysis. Once that is done, we should be able to give you more detail of the

composition of the material.” On Feb. 1, Carl Shoffstall, the long-time president of the Lido Key Residents Association, said of the shell situation, “We are OK with it. Nobody out here is very upset.” He stressed, as he has in the past, “We needed the sand,” as erosion posed a serious threat to property owners. In remarks similar to those of DavisShaw, Shoffstall noted that the sand that came from further out in Big Pass was of a higher quality. He further emphasized, as DavisShaw had, that “We did clear out a lot of rubber tires,” which apparently had been deposited in the pass years ago in an attempt to form an artificial reef. Those were “not environmentally friendly,” he pointed out. In a Feb. 1 email, Corps spokesman David Ruderman wrote, “Beach placement material is strictly controlled for quality and shell size, [and] the Corps monitors the contractor’s oversight and collects and assesses samples throughout the course of the beach nourishment to ensure compliance with requirements, all of which were met at Lido Key. The anecdotal comments I’ve heard throughout the project have been that the sand quality is terrific.”

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Fish farm project off Sarasota coast receives opposition By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com Attorneys for a group of nine environmental or public interest organizations say the Environmental Protection Agency’s decision to issue a permit for a “fish farm” off the Sarasota County coast is misguided. In their most recent brief, the attorneys maintain that the agency “has consistently failed to evaluate the totality of the project it authorized under the National Pollution Discharge Elimination System permit.” The Sarasota-based Suncoast Waterkeeper is one of the petitioners. In October, the nonprofit organizations filed their appeal with the Environmental Appeals Board. Located in Washington, D.C., that board “is the final decision maker on administrative appeals under all major environmental statutes that EPA administers,” its website explains. The permit the EPA issued last year authorizes Ocean Era Inc. of Hawaii “to operate the only

Submitted photo

industrial ocean finfish farm in U.S. federal waters — in the Gulf of Mexico approximately 45 miles from the coast of Sarasota,” the petitioners’ Feb. 1 brief notes. The EPA assessed only some of the pollutants the facility would be expected to discharge,

Island Chatter featured a map of the island showing the four sections where the association’s team has been working to gain residents’ approval for the use of the mini reefs: the Grand Canal section, Palm Island section, Siesta Isles section and Ocean Beach/ Sarasands section. The primary target area, Cannon pointed out, is the Grand Canal section, which includes Siesta Key Circle, Tremont Street and Waterside Way. “They’re up to 12%,” she said, referring to the percentage of mini reefs installed — 34 — out of the total of 234 homes with docks. Cannon also noted that the team is working with various other nonprofits, including the Gulf Coast Community Foundation, based in Venice, on strategies to improve the canal and to pursue grant opportunities.

the brief continues, “and fails to assess others in accordance with the mandatory factors required by the [U.S. Clean Water Act’s] implementing regulations.” In the final environmental assessment that the EPA released on the project, the brief adds, the

ocean discharge criteria evaluation “does not assess critical discharges authorized by this novel permit, including antibiotics, pathogens, escaped fish, and copper the facility will discharge into the gulf for the first time. Consequently, the full impacts to the receiving waters

Chiocchio explained that Ocean Habitats has informed him that the devices weigh 200 to 300 pounds after they become filled with sea life, “so their lifting capacity is very minimal, and [Ocean Habitats has] not had any problems with [reports of the devices] lifting docks,” as long as the docks were built to current construction code standards. The mini reefs are attached to docks with ropes and pulleys, Cannon added, which also ensure their stability under docks. For questions or offers to participate in the project, email SiestaKeyAssociation1947@gmail. com.

condominiums on the island had reported the theft of three bicycles from the complex’s property, the email said. “Do any other condos have an experience of bicycle theft or for that matter any theft that they would be willing to share?” the email asked. “If your condo has any experience with theft, please consider sharing your experience with others to the benefit of all,” the email continued. “Send your response to skcondocouncil@hotmail. com. The information gathered will be consolidated and sent to the full membership,” it added.

Bicycle thefts reported

Higel project still underway in early February

and to endangered species have never been assessed.” “Section 402 [of the Clean Water Act] is clear that a NPDES permit may be granted only after EPA applies the standards of the CWA [Clean Water Act] to all pollutants discharged by a permit applicant,” the petitioners argue, with emphasis. “Congress plainly anticipated that its permit program would sweep in all pollutants,” the brief continues. “It did not say permits are only required for the discharge of ‘pollutants of concern’ or unmitigated pollutants, but for ‘any pollutant.’” On Sept. 30, the EPA approved the permit, which allows the discharge of wastewater from an aquaculture pen dubbed Velella Epsilon. Ocean Era wants to anchor the copper mesh pen at a depth of about 130 feet in the Gulf of Mexico. The facility — with a diameter of 17 meters and a height of 7 meters — would contain about 20,000 almaco jack fish. The 12- to 18-month pilot Continued on page 46

Continued from page 25

The Foundation, she said, has launched an undertaking called the Community Playbook for Healthy Waterways. (During a presentation to the County Commission in March 2020, representatives of the Community Playbook group discussed a wide variety of initiatives that can lead to improved water quality countywide.) At one point on Feb. 4, SKA President Catherine Luckner pointed out that a resident of Bay Island, on the northern part of the Key, told her he has seen firsthand how successful the mini reefs are, as he has used a kayak and a boat to travel around the island. He has two docks, she continued, and is interested in installing the devices. However, Luckner said, he was concerned about whether high tides could result in the mini reefs damaging his docks.

On Jan. 25, the Siesta Key Condominium Council sent out an email blast about bicycle thefts, seeking help. One of its member

For the past several months, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) has had a project underway on

Higel Avenue from Little Pond Lane to Somerset Drive, on the northern part of Siesta Key. The department had anticipated completion by the end of 2020. However, the work continues. FDOT’s projects update for Sarasota County for the second week of February noted that the Higel initiative has been designed to improve drainage, as well as the sidewalk and shoulder from Little Pond Lane to Somerset; road resurfacing was planned, as well. The FDOT notice for the week of Feb. 7 said, “The contractor is in final stages of completion and project acceptance.” It added, “Motorists should expect only intermittent lane closures,” if those prove necessary. The contractor is Heavy Civil Inc. of North Miami Beach.

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“I remember it well – Hurricane George was approaching and the guy I bought the business from hadn’t boarded up any of the stores,” Havill said. “I was sweating it out.” *** Step one was for the new owner was striking a balance between a laidback scene that everyone knew and the need for an influx of professionalism. “I had the corporate knowledge and it needed some of that. For starters, there were a bunch of those negative novelty signs all over the walls. And the menu had a drawing of a girl in a bikini,” Havill said. “As for the employees, I made it known they would be treated professionally and would have a positive work environment.” In fact, Havill’s daughter Ashley Paynter holds the title of director of operations and personnel training and development. That’s not what you expect to hear at a familyowned mom and pop operation. “We needed to get more organized and develop a brand,” Havill said. “We’re not a sub shop, we’re a specialty sandwich shop. We make them liked grandma used to make them, but we are also serious about what we do as a business. “We also came up with the ‘Often imitated, never duplicated’ slogan for our shirts and ads, as well as the cool logo of the Surfer sandwich on a surfboard.” Otherwise, tradition has ruled the roost. “We’ve mostly left things alone and things look the same, which people like,” Havill said. “They want Anna’s to stay Anna’s. “Now, we could have expanded our hours into the evening, but we want our employees to have lives. We have added some condiments – back in the day, all they had were cucumbers and onions – and some salads and coleslaw, but nothing that would be a surprise to customers. We’ve also added a couple of what we call signature sandwiches but have done it slowly and pretty much based upon request. “Oh, and I decided to quarter the sandwiches. Although, to be honest, I still only let them cut mine in half. Beyond that, if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. That’s been my mentality.” The remarkable longevity of many Anna’s employees points to that emphasis on teamwork. “When you work in that type of proximity to one another, you can’t help but feel you’re a family,” Paynter said. It starts with Pat Salerno, who worked there for 34 years between 1978 and 2012. She was 80 when she hung up her apron and never missed a beat despite the often pressure-packed assembly-line atmosphere in the store. “We always tried to come up with a slogan for her, like ‘a million served,’” said her daughter, Lisa Salerno, who now helps her mother out as she approaches 90. “Think of all the sandwiches she made. “I know she just loved her coworkers and seeing her customers come back year after year. She watched many kids grow into adults and start bringing their own kids.” It was Lisa Salerno, while a teenager, who introduced what many customers will remember as the plastic cup on the counter that had the message “Tipping is not just a city in China” written upon it. “And boy, did they get the

The original Village location, circa 1972. Submitted photo

tips,” she said. “I should have received a cut, but I did receive free sandwiches.” Meanwhile, Pat’s sister-in-law Theresa Jones worked by her side for about 15 years, as did Joan Pollack for about 17 years. “We called Pat and Joan ‘sugar and spice,’” said Havill, who placed a photo of them on the wall of the Southbridge shop as a tribute. “Joan was the lady at the counter James when I ordered my first sandwich. I’ll never forget that.” Speaking of never forgetting, the Anna’s workers have demonstrated an incredible knack for knowing the names of customers. Something as simple as asking for a name at the time of taking an order, and writing it on the ticket so that name can be called, has gone a long way. “It’s something we emphasize,” Havill said. “I know it means the world to our customers when they are greeted by their name.” Kelly Foley is among the masters of that skill. She is one of two current employees approaching a decade of service. “It’s just something I’m good at,” Foley said. “I like learning where people are from and telling them, ‘We’ll see you

Anna James, the founder, in the kitchen in 1971. Submitted photo

next year.’ Sure enough, they always come back. And when I remember their name, they’re shocked.” Said Paynter, “She’ll even tell us what kind of sandwich they order before they get to the counter. And if someone accidentally orders white bread, she might say ‘I thought you liked wheat bread?’ And they’ll say, ‘Oh yeah, that’s right. Thanks.’” Foley especially remembers those with the unusual orders. “Chicken salad and roast beef is one of them. A sauce (only) sandwich is another,” she said. *** Why is it still called Anna’s and not called Dave’s? “Because Anna James is no one to mess with,” said Havill with a laugh. “I know better. She’s a legend.” In just two short years, James became a local icon after opening the original shop in 1971 in an old-world Florida bungalow at 550 Ocean Blvd. Today, that site is home to the Daquiri Deck. It was her first foray into the restaurant business and was something she hadn’t planned. But there she was, spending her savings of $1,200 toward rent,

The awards for best sandwich are showcased at the shop. Submitted image.

The Surfer logo is part of the shop’s branding, gracing T-shirts and advertisements. Submitted image Continued on next page

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Anna’s

Continued from previous page

knowing after six months she’d have to pay an additional $200 a month. The rest, they say, is history. “Yes, I’m amazed it has lasted 50 years and that it’s the Key’s oldest eatery. It pleases me to no end,” the 89-year-old James said from her home in Tampa. “It just shows I must have done something right. Truth is, I was never that ambitious. At the same time, it never occurred to me that I might fail.” She was certain there was a demand. “There wasn’t much of anything at that time. I just wanted people coming off the beach to have a place where they could eat,” James said. “I know I did.” And boy did she deliver, coming up with an idea to stack the sandwiches higher than most had ever dared with a mountain of freshly sliced cold cuts. Then, there’s the sauce. It’s something people will forever ask about and the answer that it’s just a “mustard-mayo mix” doesn’t cut it with most. They want details, James said. “So many have tried to duplicate it, but they never will. And I’ll never give out the recipe in respect to the current owners. It will remain a secret,” James said. “But I will tell you that the person I sold the business to (Jim Harrigan) took out an original ingredient. And it was a major ingredient. And I’ll leave it at that.” From where did the recipe originate? A family tradition, perhaps? “Actually, some guy from New York City gave it to me when I was first opening up. I can’t remember his name – actually, I’m not sure I ever knew it -- but I do remember him leaving it with me and saying, ‘By the way, you’ll never make it,’” James said. “How about that? Boy, was he wrong.” A search for the right bread was also on her plate. Knowing her sandwiches were huge and loaded with sauce, building the perfect foundation was critical. “I had heard about someone who made canned bread in Tampa, creating a round sandwich which I liked because it was different, so I checked it out,” James said. “I

Joan Pollack (left) and Pat Salerno are treasured longtime employees.Submitted photo.

wanted something strong yet soft and spongy, and that was it. I was sold on the idea, but I did have to work a long time with that baker to get it just right.” Havill to this day still values the importance of the canned bread. “It’s irreplaceable. We have always had to look far and wide for people who can make it to our standards,” he said, “and few places can. Today, we have it shipped down from a baker we found in Largo.” What James does recall with vivid detail are those who helped her get things rolling a half century ago. “Suzanne St. Clair was a Realtor who pulled people in off the streets for me,” she said. “During the rush, she’d even help in the kitchen on her lunch break.” It’s the same tiny kitchen that customers would visit when lines got long to take a peek at what was going on. “They’d take the lid off my soup kettle to see what I had that day,” James said. “People felt at home, and that’s partially because it was literally a house. You couldn’t help but not feel that way.” Meanwhile, James even remembers her early regulars. “The two men who were among my first customers, and were there every day, were Bill Shroder and Gil Waters. They were so funny. Gil was the one who suggested I put tables on the front porch,” she said. Then there’s artist Barbara Barrett, who sketched the building. “I heard people would buy her drawing for their wall at home,” James said. “That’s how much they loved Anna’s.” Many artists would take a liking to Anna’s. James recalled a certain

table that saw the likes of John MacDonald, the famous crime novelist; Syd Solomon, a renowned abstract painter; and MacKinlay Kantor, a Pulitzer Prize-winning writer. “That’s when I knew we were on the map,” James said. “I had also added wine to the menu, so it became a real gathering place.” By the time 1973 rolled around, James had some health struggles and was exhausted. She decided to sell despite her raging success. “I practically gave it away,” she said, “but I don’t have any regrets. I wanted to do other things.” Those things included her residing in Ashland, Oregon; Spring Island, South Carolina; the North Carolina mountains; Aspen, Colorado; and Washington, D.C.; Finally, she has returned to the area. “I’ve had a wonderful life,” she said, “and I’m writing a memoir about it.” Will Anna’s be part of it? “Oh, yes,” she said. “That was such a fun time. In fact, I still visit Anna’s whenever I can.” *** Harrigan left the original building soon after his purchase of Anna’s, taking the shop to the Avenida Messina location, and then added the Southbridge Mall location in 1978. He called it Anna’s II. Due to declining health, he sold it in 1991 to Alex Dragolovitch, his neighbor, who would sell it to Havill. Despite the success of the Village operation, Havill said he ran into constant headaches due to limited parking, troublesome landlords, and unreasonable neighbors. The store’s locale would bounce from

one spot to the next and potential customers were known to give up on finding a parking spot and instead drive down to the south shop. “Did you know that Anna’s had five different locations in the Village?” he said. “In 2012, we finally gave up in the Village but of course kept the Southbridge shop. People were upset, and I had to put a sign on the door here that explained things. I simply didn’t have a choice.” He had already expanded his business to downtown Sarasota in 2003, closing it in 2016, and took the equipment from the Village shop out to University Park for a new operation in 2012. Hot sandwiches are now on the menu there, but the Siesta Key site isn’t large enough to accommodate an oven for such a plan, Havill said. “I am on the lookout for some space down here,” he said of the south end, “and I wish I would have kept that space next door where the ice cream store was located. But I let that go years ago, as soon as the lease was up.” Speaking of leases, is Anna’s a shop that could lose its cozy spot? “No way. I’m signed up through 2025. I used to have to go with

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three-year extensions, but I was able to get it up to six years at a pop,” Havill said. “If I could do 20, I would. “When we decided to do this, we wanted it to stay with the family. We wanted it everlasting. And the kids have followed – Ashley has her big role and also manages the Siesta Key store, my son David ran the downtown store, and my son Eric runs the University Park store. We’re all in.” Certainly, the ongoing success is also a motivator. “It’s incredible – our Surfer has been awarded ‘best of’ for 21 straight years in different publications and magazines,” Havill said. His Southbridge shop in 2019 was also featured on a “Best Thing I Ever Ate” segment on the nationally televised Food Network. “We aren’t going anywhere,” Havill said. “It’s funny, but I often get asked, ‘How did you get ahold of this?’ “I’ve also received several onthe-spot offers from people in line. There’s a Canadian guy who, for 12 straight years, has left me a note with an offer when he visits. “But the answer is always no.”

Congratulations on 50 years! The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate Anna’s Deli on 50 years! The oldest eatery on Siesta Key, Anna’s Restaurant & Deli has been a Siesta Key/Sarasota tradition since 1971.

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Arts on the Horizon

Get out, and get in

arly February was really cold, and March is beginning to heat up. If March winds are too cold for you, don’t go to the beach, stay indoors. But get out of YOUR indoors and go indoors at the Ringling Museum of Art. Why? Because there is so much going on, you could spend days perusing all the exhibits that are open in this exciting new year. The Searing Galleries is host to a 20 painting/sculpture collection titled Remaking the World: Abstraction from the Permanent Collection. All these works of abstract expressionism are supposed to speak to you. The question is, are you listening? These works are not just relative to the eye of the beholder, but also to the mind of the beholder. How colors, textures and shapes generate a response in you is what is important. An abstract expressionism show about 50 years ago at the Whitney Museum in New York featured an entire gallery of Robert Motherwell paintings. The four or five 15-foot-wide by 10-foot-high paintings that were on display left no room in that

CLUB

By Rodger Skidmore

exhibit space for anyone else’s painting. Each was a pure white canvas, which Motherwell had apparently lain on the floor and then taken a bucket of black paint and splooshed it from lower right to upper left -- each just a bit different. One viewer’s response was to ask, “Which had Motherwell run out of first? Canvas, white paint, or black paint?” The Motherwell displayed at the Ringling is more complex and therefore more appealing. A painting in this show that is as monumental as one of Motherwell’s at the Whitney, but much more pleasing, is Infinity of Dots by Yayoi Kusama. In another of the Searing Galleries, there’s a series of mixed-media prints portraying scenes from the Boston Massacre. Not of the recent one during the Boston Marathon, but our very own American Revolution. Being abstract, these scenes from 250 years ago have been re-imagined using imagery from the political unrest of the 1960s. Going back another 120 years takes us to the time of the Dutch painter Frans Hals, whose works are, coincidently, being shown in another Searing Gallery, in an exhibition organized by the Dallas Museum. Want to see something a bit more active (and tragic)? Get tickets to see the March 4 showing of a contemporary retelling of Shakespeare’s King Lear, at the Historic Asolo Theater. Get more info at Ringling.org.

The Sound of Music is not playing this month …

at least not in Sarasota. Many think that The Sound of Music is one of the longest-running

MONDAY

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musicals of all time. But if you want to hear wonderfully orchestrated music that have been playing (and appreciated) for ages, then you’ll want to listen to the Key Chorale’s presentation of Celebration: Mozart & Haydn, streaming from March 5 through March 28. We’ve read of the competition between Mozart and Salieri. Popular literature says that they hated each other, or that Mozart held Salieri in contempt. The truth is, while one represented a new musical approach and the other, the old, they did work together. Salieri conducted Mozart’s Coronation Mass for the coronation of King Leopold II of Bohemia in St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague back in 1792. As this is not 1792, Joseph Caulkins will be replacing Antonio Salieri as conductor for this mass. It is often referred to as a Missa brevis (short mass) due to its length, but it does include all six text sections of the Ordinary Mass. Just six years later Haydn was busy writing a new mass (one of the 14 that he wrote), the Missa In Augustiis (A Mass for Troubled Times). An apt title considering Napoleon Bonaparte was threatening to march on Vienna. When, on the works premiere, the audience heard of Napoleon’s defeat in the Battle of the Nile by forces led by Admiral Nelson, it is no wonder that the title was then updated to the Lord Nelson Mass. The music being presented by The Artist Series of Sarasota at Benderson Park, the afternoon of March 7, has a direct connection to Mozart’s Coronation Mass -- the mass features a trombone section

Good News

Good News was a musical that opened on Broadway back in 1927. It was a hit. So, what’s the good news today? That musicals are back. Not on Broadway, but right here, this March, in Sarasota. The first is already in production at the Asolo Rep, next to the Ringling Museum. It is Fannie -- The Music and Life of Fannie Lou Hamer. Well, not actually a musical as it is billed as a play with music. In a one-woman show it’s easy for E. Faye Butler to do social distancing when she’s the only one on the stage. The action takes place in 1964 when Mrs. Hamer, known as the Mother of Voter Registration, attended the Democratic National Convention representing the Mississippi Freedom Democratic Party. Mrs. Hamer tells her story through poetically styled storytelling, with force and gusto. It’s ending March 3 so call for tickets right now. Also at the Asolo Rep, previewing March 17 and 18 and opening March 19, and continuing through April 1, is Lerner & Lowe’s Camelot. This musical, about the magical land of King Arthur, Queen Guenevere, and Sir Lancelot, won four Tony awards in 1960.

This streamlined concert version features all new orchestrations. Both of these shows will be presented outdoors at the Asolo Rep Terrace Theatre, just right for spring evenings in Florida. Ticket info for both shows is at AsoloRep.org. Starting a bit later in the month (March 24 through April 25) is the Florida Studio Theatre production of a brand new show, Vintage POP, starring Carole J. Bufford, a perennial favorite at the FST’s summer cabaret. Since this is spring, and not summer, the show will be on the main stage at the Keating Theatre. Songs like “St. Louis Blues” will bring back many memories, but so will ones like “A Whole Lotta Shakin’ Goin’ on.” Yes, Ella Fitzgerald to Creedence Clearwater Revival will also bring back memories. Beginning March 31 at FST’s Gompertz Theatre will be a musical revue titled Three Pianos showcasing rock-star oriented songs made famous by Carole King, Billy Joel, and Stevie Wonder. Info for both is at Floridastudiotheatre.org. Another outdoor venue for these wonderful warm Sarasota nights is at the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe’s theatre on North Orange Avenue at 12th Street, through March 14. A revolving cast of singers will be showcased in this great selection of rock and soul hits. That was the good news. The even better news is that Henry Washington and Raleigh Mosely, two of the great stylists at the WBTT who can really put over a song, will be featured. Ticket info is at Westcoastblacktheatre. org.

TUESDAY

WEDNESDAY

Zack Yoder 6-10 PM

Nick Levalley 6-10 PM

Rodney Shenk: 6-10 PM

RPM LIVE: 6-10 PM

6-10 PM Mike Tozier OR Deven Starr

RPM LIVE - 6-10 PM

Live Music

1-5 PM: 7-11 PM

2-6 PM 8-Midnight

11 AM – 2 PM 3-7 PM 8-Midnight

10 AM - 1 PM

Live Music 6-9 PM

Live Music 6:30-9:30 PM

Live Music 6-9 PM

Live Music 6-9 pm

Live Music 1 – 4 PM 4:30 – 7:30 PM 8:30 PM-mignight

Live Music 1 – 4 PM 4:30 – 7:30 PM 8:30 PM –midnight

Live Music 1-4 PM 4:30 – 7:30 PM 8:30 PM - midnight

Live Music Noon – 3 PM 3:00 – 6:00 PM 6-10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6-10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 6-9 PM

Turtle Beach Grill Southern end of SK 941-349-2280

LIVE MUSIC 5-9 PM

LIVE MUSIC 5-10 PM

LIVE MUSIC 5-9 PM

SAND DOLLAR POOL BAR @ Best Western Plus 6600 S. Tamiami Trl. Sarasota 941-924-4900

LIVE MUSIC 5-8 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3-7 PM

BLASE CAFÉ In the Village 941-349-9822

GILLIGANS ILAND BAR & RESTAURANT In the Village 941-326-8122

SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB) In the Village 941-346-5443

1-5 PM; 7-11 PM

THE COTTAGE In the Village 941-312-9300

Live Music 6-9 PM

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

Live Music 6-9PM

SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS Crescent Beach Shops 941-349-3885

LIVE MUSIC 6-10 PM

Spearfish Siesta Grille Southern end of SK 941-349-1971

CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey 941-966-1901

Live Music 6-9 PM LIVE MUSIC 6-10 PM

THURSDAY

and the Rick Costa Sextet is doing a tribute to the music of the trombone king, Glen Miller. The concert features singer Walt Andrus. Andrus has his own trombone connection -- back in the day, he joined the Tommy Dorsey Orchestra, led at that time by Buddy Morrow, both being trombone greats in their own right (Glen Miller got his start in the TD Orchestra). Get info at Artistseriesconcerts.org.

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

Zack Yoder Group 6-10 PM

TBD 6-10 PM

Ketel of Fish- 6 PM (26th) DJ Kkonn – 10 PM

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

SUNDAY

Yoder & Donadi- 1 PM DJ Kkonn – 10 PM

7 -11 PM

LIVE MUSIC 3-7 PM

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MARCH 2021

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Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce presents annual awards By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com During the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce’s annual awards dinner, held Jan. 28 at the Lido Beach Resort, nominees and recipients were recognized and celebrated for their outstanding business achievement, volunteerism, and community engagement. The following winners were announced: • Nancy Mulvey — Sharon Cunningham Visitor Center Volunteer of the Year. • Hollis Higgins of Aloha Kai — Shining Star. (A review of a sampling of renters’ comments about accommodations at the condominium complex found plenty of kudos for Higgins. For example, a June 2019 comment singled out Higgins in noting that the office and cleaning staffs “exceeded my expectations. Everyone went beyond the norm to take care of any questions, needs, etc. we had.” A June 2017 comment said, “Hollis Higgins made the whole rental process a wonderful experience from start to finish!” A third, posted in February 2017, offered appreciation to Higgins for recommending a specific unit, which, the writer pointed out, “was even better than what we expected from the photos.” • Mark Smith of Smith Architects — Service & Leadership Award. • Shawn McLoughlin — Siesta Selfless Award. (In his membership listing on the Siesta Chamber website, McLoughlin notes, “I love to paint local scenes that depict the unique charm of Siesta Key and surrounding areas.”) • M ike Gatz, manager of Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill — Business Person of the Year. • Signarama — Small Business of the Year. • S abal Palm Bank — Large Business of the Year. • Siesta Key Chapel —

Community Partner. The following received Board of Director Service Awards: Mason Tush, chair in 2020; Josh Ludwig (2018-2020); Gabe Hartmann (2018-2020); Mark Smith (2015-2020); and Joye Argo (2016-2020). The new Chamber chair is Steve Cavanaugh of Tropical Sands Accommodations and RE/MAX Tropical Sands. (In its listing on the chamber website, Tropical Sands Accommodations says it is the largest vacation rental management company on the island. Its properties range from studios to those with nine bedrooms, the firm adds, with vacation periods ranging from three days to six months. Among its offerings are those at Aloha Kai, the Gulf & Bay Club and Our House at the Beach.) Tush, whose family owns CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, remains on the board as immediate past chair, and Gatz of Gilligan’s is the chairelect. Kara Altice-Montes of Altez Vacations is the treasurer, and Kathleen Elliott of Signarama is the secretary. The other board members are as follows: • Jimmy Bonner of Sherwin Williams. • Eric Fleming of The Law Offices of Eric C. Fleming, PA. • Helene Hyland of Coldwell Banker. • Wendall Jacobsen of Beach Bazaar. • Syd Krawczyk of Concept Digital Media. • Warren LaBonte of Siesta Beach Concessions and Siesta Sun Deck. • C arrie Lewis of Sabal Palm Bank. • M ike Lewis of Siesta Key Jet Ski. • Russell Matthes of the Daiquiri Deck. • Jerry Williams of Abel’s Ice Cream

Mia Leone, Chamber Visitor Center Manager, and Nancy Mulvey, Sharon Cunningham Visitor Center Volunteer of the Year

Hollis Higgins of Aloha Kai and Shining Star winner, and Mason Tush of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters and 2020 Chamber Board Chair

Kathleen and Chris Elliot of Signarama and Small Business of the Year winner, and Mason Tush of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters and 2020 Chamber Board Chair

Mason Tush of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters and 2020 Chamber Board Chair, Carrie Lewis of Sabal Palm Bank and Large Business of the Year winner, and Brion Palmer of Siesta Sand and award sponsor

Mason Tush of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters and 2020 Chamber Board Chair, and Mark Smith of Smith Architects, PA and Service & Leadership Award winner

Shawn McLoughlin, Siesta Selfless Award winner, and Mason Tush of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters and 2020 Chamber Board Chair

Pete Barnhart of Siesta Key Chapel and Community Partner winner, and Mike Gatz of Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill and award sponsor

Mike Gatz of Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill and Business Person of the Year, and Mason Tush of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters and 2020 Chamber Board Chair

Siesta Sand

Off Key

MARCH 2021

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By Robert Frederickson

More Comings and Goings in local Government

“T

he reason they fire you is the same reason they hired you.” That’s a saying you often hear applied to individuals recently cut loose from high profile jobs in the public eye. It especially fits the group of newly minted ex-NFL coaches kicked to the curb every year around this time. But it applies equally well to all manner of individuals, especially those in leadership positions subject

to everyday public scrutiny -- city managers, politicians, even chiefs of police. Just ask now former Sarasota Chief of Police Bernadette DiPino, who landed the top-cop job here 12 years ago in large part because of her commitment to promoting a less adversarial, more community oriented public profile for the Sarasota Police Department. At the time, there had been a number of cases of alleged mistreatment of homeless individuals by SPD officers. Tensions were also strained between the department and many city residents living in the city’s historically black Newtown community. DiPino promoted efforts to smooth out her new department’s rough edges; she initiated events like “coffee with a cop” and other community outreach events where citizens could interact with her officers on a personal level. Most would agree the department made

considerable strides in reaching out to both the homeless and the city’s minority population during her watch. But her tenure with the city came to an abrupt end earlier this year due to fallout from a comment she made during a public event for the benefit of the police department that was disrupted by a homeless man known to suffer from issues related to mental illness. That comment was clearly said in jest, and yes, just as clearly distasteful -- something to the effect of the chief wishing she had a Taser to quiet the fellow’s distasteful outbursts. Her inappropriate comment was overheard by some of her officers, passed along to others, and finally widely reported by local media, most bitterly for her on the news and editorial pages of the Sarasota Herald Tribune. And with that, it was lights out for DiPino’s career in Sarasota, taken down by a boneheaded comment her detractors were

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easily able to use against her. Still, it strikes me as yet another absurd example of how words have come to outweigh actions in today’s increasingly “woke” culture, when a clumsy, misplaced aside lasting a few seconds at a public event can overshadow a proven track record, years in the making, and one highlighted by improved treatment and respect for the city’s homeless population by SPD officers. DiPino apologized for her comments. No matter. It seems forgiveness -- even among members of a local media which has lost much of its institutional memory of late with the retirements of thoughtful and fair observers like Barbara Peters Smith and Tom Tryon -- is no longer universally prized. Where any potentially enlightening context that might be gleaned from looking to the past is canceled by a malignant preoccupation with the present. “Do as we say, not as we do!” Amazon was all in for mail-in voting with the thinnest of identity fraud protections in the lead-up to the 2020 presidential election. The Washington Post too, which just so happens to be owned and operated by Amazon founder Jeff Bezos. So of course, when it came time for a vote by nearly 6,000 Amazon employees working at a distribution warehouse outside Birmingham, Alabama on whether or not to approve union representation, the company was equally supportive of mail-in voting, right? Wrong! The company objected vociferously. But then consistency has never been the strong suit of an everbroadening woke Silicon Valley cabal that delights in telling ordinary folks how things should work in today’s enlightened society while ignoring their own edicts when they run counter to their own interests.

Tampa Bay throws a party

Now we know the real reason Tom Brady decided to come to Tampa Bay: the post-Super Bowl victory parade. They’re much more fun here. Clear skies and 81-degree weather as the backdrop for a celebratory

boat parade down Tampa’s Hillsborough River in February sure beats frozen sidewalks and a bitterly cold northeast wind blowing in off the inner harbor in downtown Boston.

Who wouldn’t take that trade?

The celebration in downtown Tampa had an exuberance to it that reflected the sense of shared purpose the players brought to the Buccaneers’ entire 2020 campaign. The parade began at 1 p.m. and was supposed to be a one-hour affair, but ended up going into double overtime, stretching well past 4 p.m. At one point, speed merchant wide receiver Scotty Miller “fumbled” fellow receiver Chris Godwin’s phone, knocking it into the river after a botched handoff. At any other time, this would have been a major buzz kill. But on this day? No biggie. Defensive back Sean MurphyBunting shook off a blow to the head, tweeting: “Got hit in the head with a Bud Light. Did it hurt? Ya … But hey, let’s go!” The high point for me though was when the Buc’s manchild, anything-goes party animal Rob Gonkowski (a.k.a. “Gronk”) ran into Tampa Mayor Jane Castor as the parade was about to get underway and actually got “her honor” the mayor to down a shot with him and his buddies, though it should be noted the “shot” in this case was champagne, which the Gronk quaffed down from a plastic cup with the wild abandon that has become his trademark. For her part, Mayor Castor maintained the dignity of her station, demurely sipping hers from a fluted glass, while toasting Gronk and his mates. But before boarding her own boat for the parade, Castor had some parting advice for the Gronk: “Please be careful with the Lombardi Trophy,” she said, adding, “We don’t want to see it end up in the river.” To which Gronkowski replied: “Don’t worry, I’m not even going to touch it, mayor.”

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MARCH 2021

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DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE kind pizza pie. The flavors and ingredients are just as unique and special as the restaurant’s design. Try a Mellow Mushroom stonebaked pizza, munchies, calzone, salad, hoagie, or even a burger. Pick from our selection of 24 draft beers or tasty, handcrafted cocktails. And, many of our pizzas can be made gluten-free or vegan. Located at 6727 S. Tamiami Trail. 941-388-7504. Off the Hook Operated and run by Chef Wes Duval, a graduate of the prestigious Culinary Institute of America and master at serving guests the freshest fish possible with a focus on local delicacy delights, eclectic presentations,

From Vintage to Modern An extension of your personality

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2621 Mall Dr., Sarasota RobertsRealty@comcast.net www.SarasotaCoast.com 2

Stein Mart

Publix

Michaels

Panera Bread

Marshall’s

Bed Bath & Beyond

Ross

Dress for Less

Iberia Bank

Five Below

G23 G22 G21 G20 G19 G18 G17

G14 G13 G12 G11 G10 G9 G8 G7 G6 G5 G4 G3 G2 G1

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Superior Avenue

Beall’s Outlet

Mall Drive

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Gateway Avenue

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. Books-A- Over 150 businesses Million make up this district. This section helps highlight what you’ll find within this walkable Gulf Gate Ba Am nk o shopping Village. eri f

M22 M21 M20 M19 M18 M17 M16 M15 M14 M13 M12 M11 M10 M9 M8

M5 M4 M3 M2 M1

GULF GATE Siesta Nails & Spa

S30 S29 S28 S27 S26 S25 S24 S23 S22 S21 S20 S19 S18 S17 S16 S15 S14 S13 S12 S11 S10 S9 S8 S7 S6 S5 S4 S3 S2 S1

Gulf Gate Drive

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and legendary desserts. You will enjoy great service and a variety of original dishes he has mastered over his years specializing in seafood. His fusion of fresh fish paired with unique and flavorful creations is divine. All ingredients are hand-picked and complimented by a refined wine selection from vineyards around the world as well as his choice in quality spirits and local craft beers. Off the Hook has become a signature culinary destination, from first sip to last bite. A perfect date night spot or gathering with your foodie friends.

Roberts Realty

Hooters

who understand the importance of family and dedication. Their recipes and techniques have been perfected through three long generations based on the traditional simplicity of the methods used by their Italian ancestors. Dine inside, outside, pick up, or DELIVERY anywhere on Siesta Key, or in Sarasota until 3:30 a.m. 6574 Superior Ave., 941-9245800. Gulf Gate Food + Beer (S-51): Sarasota’s late-night hot spot for the service industry, night owls, and midnight snackers. It’s not your typical sports bar offering unique menu selections for carnivores and vegetarians. Be sure to check out their menu online at: eatfooddrinkbeer.com. Hours: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. (Sun. - Thurs.) open until 2 a.m. (Fri & Sat.). ROBERTS REALTY, Inc. (M-5) John Garner, Broker Assoc. & Diane Shane, Broker Assoc. have a combined 40 years’ experience in Sarasota of making dreams come true for our clients. FOR BUYERS, we have had great success in finding the right property for our clients because we listen closely to their wants and needs and matching that as close as possible. FOR SELLERS, 1 over the years we have successfully listed and sold many, many E properties throughout Sarasota County. OUR PHILOSOPHY is to have fun, enjoy the experience, achieve great results, make friends and receive referrals. We’re with you every step of the way! Call D 941-924-2330 or drop by our office. Only Eyes, Optical (S-24) brings a new, exotic, eclectic, eccentric, unique C collection of vintage, hipster, contemporary eyeglasses and sunglasses to the community. Licensed and experienced optician available to fill B your prescriptions. Only Eyes Optical has a large assortment of free frames with the purchase of new lenses. Call 941-444-7984 to set up an appointment A with their licensed optician. Mellow Mushroom serves a one of a 1

Sun Trust

With our map, located below, you’ll be able to navigate your way to our featured shops with ease. The Shop SRQ (G-2) offers flattops, 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. 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. Gulf Gate Barber Shop (G11): has been an institution in the community for years, owned by Kyle Flannery. The super-clean barbershop’s clientele is comprised of primarily men, but the shop services children as well. Scott Reich, formerly of the Siesta Key Village Barber Shop has relocated to this location. West End Pub (G-49) Where else can you watch your favorite game with 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. 6500 Gateway Ave. – 941-554-8905. 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. Solórzano’s Late Night Pizzeria (S-32): At every Solórzano’s, they offer an experience familiar to those

G-4

Siesta Sand

MARCH 2021

Florida Fish of Siesta Key

Red Snapper

Florida Puffer Yellowtail

Sailfish Sailfish Spanish Mackerel Dohlpin “Mahi-Mahi”

Lane Snapper

Black Mullet Snook

Red Drum “Redfish”

Tarpon

Baracuda

Florida Pompano Jack Crevalle

Spotted Sea Trout

Cobia

Black Drum

Blue Marlin

Black Grouper

Sheesphead

Fishing aboard Coastal Fishing Adventures with Captain Terry Simmons, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key

www.siestasand.net

Fishing Report Capt. Rick Grassett, Sarasota CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 941-923-7799 (office)

Enjoy a fishing charter with Captain Terry Simmons. Florida Puffer

Mangrove Snapper

Water World Fishing Report

941.312.0665

Because of the lower water temperatures, I’ve been starting my charters a little later in the mornings to give it a chance to warm up. We’ve also had some weather fronts come through with some early morning fog and windy afternoons. Last month, on a Tuesday I chartered the O’Reilly group. We caught Spanish mackerel, speckled trout, crevalle jacks, and ladyfish, all on DOA artificial baits using 3/8-ounce jig heads. February is a good time frame for big trout in skinny water. Mike Perez, from Sarasota, waded a sandbar with Capt. Rick Grassett and caught and released this big trout on a fly while fishing in a previous February.

Trout and redfish should be good shallow-water options this month. You may also find trout along with blues, Spanish mackerel, pompano and flounder Scoolmaster on deep-grass flats. Look for sheepshead, flounder, reds and more around docks. Catch and release night snook fishing around lighted docks in the Intracoastal Scamp Waterway may be a good option if it’s not too cold. Spanish and king Submitted photo mackerel and cobia may show up in the coastal gulf by the end of the The next day I chartered the Knight group. Although we had an all-day month. Snook, reds and spotted seatrout lingering sea fog, we were able to catch some nice speckled trout, Spanish remain closed to harvest on the mackerel, and crevalle jacks despite the numerous cormorants and west coast of Florida. The Florida dolphins trying to invade us and steal our fish. Quite a show. Fish & Wildlife Conservation has extended a temporary modification of regulations for reds, snook and trout in the areas affected by the recent red tide. The area extends from Pasco County south to the south bank of Gordon Pass in Collier County. Reds, snook and trout are catch and release only in that zone until May 31. Full details including exact boundaries can be found at https://myfwc.com/news/allGulf news/extended-cnr-220/. Flounder Since snook are temperature sensitive, I won’t target them following strong fronts when water temperatures dip below 60 degrees. However, I have had some great night trips catching Submitted photo and releasing snook on flies in the Intracoastal Waterway at night this time of year. Since larger baitfish Then I chartered the Beakas group. We started our charter in the aren’t that plentiful this time of afternoon after the kids were all done with their online schoolwork. It was year, snook will gorge themselves AmberJack also a little more challenging with the winds picking up in the afternoon. on glass minnows and shrimp. The approaching cold front somewhat changed the fishing activity, so we Small white flies, like my Grassett kept moving to new areas, picking up a few fish at each including a spotted Snook Minnow, DOA Shrimp (3 eagle ray. inches or the newer 2 ¾ inches), DOA Tiny TerrorEyz or CAL Jigs with shad tails and jerk worms will all work well. You may also find snook in rivers, creeks or canals this month. Fishing may be good in these areas on a blustery day when it isn’t fit to fish anywhere else. I like wider profile flies and lures in these areas due to the baitfish that may be found there. Fly anglers should score with wide profile baitfish patterns, such as Lefty’s Deceiver, Catfish fished on a sink tip fly line. Spin anglers should do well with CAL jigs and 4-inch swim baits and jerk worms, DOA Baitbusters or suspending plugs. Fish the deep spots, usually on outside bends, for King the best action. King Submitted photo Mackerel You might find reds in potholes Mackerel or along the edges of bars and Finally, I chartered the Jacek group. We steadily caught Spanish mackerel shallow flats when the tide is and speckled trout using live shrimp and DOA artificial baits with low. As the tide rises, they will 1/4-ounce jig heads. feed higher on shallow flats, particularly on sunny afternoons. When you need a good dose of vitamin sea, let’s go fishing. I like 1/16-ounce CAL jigs with Captain Terry Simmons shad tails or jerk worms for reds in Coastal Fishing Adventures shallow water. If it is too shallow CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key or grassy to fish an exposed hook, Sarasota, FL 34242 a Mustad or Owner weedless hook 941-400-6218 will allow you to fish plastic baits in these areas. Fly anglers should score with lightly weighted flies,

like Clousers or my Grassett Flats Minnow, with weed guards on floating lines with 10-inch to 12inch leaders. You may also find big trout in skinny water in the same places you find reds. The same lures, flies and techniques that you use to target reds will work for big trout in those areas. I release all over slot trout since they are usually females and I feel that they are important to the health of our trout fishery. You’ll find trout on deep grass flats. I like flats that have a good mix of grass and sand and good tidal flow. Flats that are close to passes are often good choices since water temperatures may be warmer there. Following fronts, silted up water will cover deep grass flats close to passes, often affecting fishing in those areas. Other good grass flats may be on points or around bars. I like to drift and cast ahead of my drift with CAL jigs and a variety of plastic tails, DOA Deadly Combos or weighted flies on sink tip fly lines to locate trout. Once you’ve located them you can shorten your drift or anchor on them. In addition to trout, you may also find blues, Spanish mackerel, flounder or pompano, depending on water temperature and conditions, on deep grass flats. The technique to find them is the same as for trout, although there may be other clues. Pompano may “skip” on the surface when you drift or run past them giving their presence away. When that happens, set up a drift upwind of where you saw a pompano and cast ahead of your drift. Blues and Spanish mackerel may force bait out of the water or feed on the surface. You may need to add heavy fluorocarbon or wire when blues and mackerel are mixed with trout on deep grass flats. Fishing docks is another good option this time of year, especially when the tide is low. You might find reds, sheepshead or flounder under docks. I like docks that are deep (3 inches or more) and have a good tidal flow. Fish the end of long piers to find the deepest water. Also, look for big boats moored on docks or on boat lifts, which is also an indication of deeper water. Older docks with lots of barnacle and oyster growth usually hold more baitfish and predators. I like CAL jigs with shad tails, grubs or jerk worms or weighted flies fished on sink tip fly lines when fishing docks. Be sure to let your jig or fly get down close to the bottom. There may be some action in the coastal gulf by the end of the month with Spanish mackerel and cobia. When the water warms to the high 60s to low 70s, these fish will move into our area from the south as they migrate north. Look for Spanish mackerel on the

Continued on page 37

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

Captain Jim Klopfer’s Fishing Forecast March 2021 Adventure Charters

941-371-1390

Charlie Chiarolanza from Illinois jigged up this permit in Big Pass

March is a great month to fish on Siesta Key. It is the first month of spring, both on the calendar and outside. The list of available species is long; snook, redfish, trout, pompano, cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, sheepshead, flounder, snapper, grouper, jack crevelle, and sharks just to name a few. Big Pass will be very productive this month, particularly when the water is clean. Ladyfish are usually thick, with bluefish, mackerel, and pompano mixed in. The sheepshead run will peak this month. Just about any structure near either pass will hold these tasty critters. A live shrimp fished on the bottom should result in a fish dinner pretty easily. Speckled trout will be schooled up over deep grass flats throughout the entire area. Incoming tides are best, but as long as the water is moving the fish will bite. A live shrimp under a noisy cork is a proven trout slayer. Bass Assassin Sea Shad baits on a ¼ ounce jig head will fool many fish, too. Pompano, mackerel, ladyfish, bluefish, jacks, and a stray cobia will also be encountered when fishing over the grass flats. These are large areas, the key to success is to keep moving until fish are located, do not spend too much time in one spot if it is not producing. Snook will move out of their winter retreats on their way out to the Gulf to spawn. The Myakka River will still produce some good fish as they migrate down

Water World

Food Safety Tips from the Island Fishmonger

During these unpredictable and confusing times, we all have to mind our p’s & q’s and be safe, smart and responsible. As I write this article the date today is March 18th and I do not know what the month of April will bring for Florida restaurants as I can’t predict the future. But, I what I do know is that all of us at Big Water Fish Market will continue to operate within the state mandate and maintain a clean and sanitized environment as usual. As of right now we have no plan to close the retail market and will continue to offer dine in and carryout in the restaurant until we are told we no longer can due to the ongoing Coronavirus situation. If there is a mandate to close restaurants, our retail market will remain open. Now that we have the unknowns out of the way, here are some safety tips for keeping your fresh fish in your daily diet.

wouldn’t eat it yourself you better not sell it. When in doubt, throw it out. If you get home and the fish that you just bought stinks, either bring it back and tell the person who sold it to you to eat it or throw it out and buy your fish elsewhere. Enough with the negative and let’s assume you bought a beautiful filet of fish.Store your fish in the coldest part of your refrigerator and keep it between 32°F and 41°F for up to 2 days. For best results, I always suggest you eat your fish the day you buy it. To freeze your fish, wrap it tightly to prevent freezer burn and you can store frozen fish up to 10 months. When thawing it is always best to thaw in the refrigerator or in the sink at room temperature. If you’re in a rush you can run cold water over your frozen product to speed up the process. Make sure not to run water at high pressure directly onto the fish as it will damage the flesh. Here are a few must know tips when buying fish from a retail counter… • Only buy seafood from a reputable source. • Always buy sustainable seafood. • Fresh fish should have a mild, fresh sea breeze odor. A strong fish odor is not acceptable. • When buying whole fish, look at the eyes. They should be clear not cloudy. • Shellfish should be alive. Tap the shell and it should close. If not, they are dead, and you should not buy them. • Purchase your seafood last and keep it cold. • Benefits of Omega 3 outweighs mercury concerns. • A ½ pound filet is the average dinner serving per person. • Cook fish for 8-10 minutes per inch of thickness at 350°F. • A grilled piece of seafood with a side of steamed broccoli should be part of your weekly diet.

Buying Fish

How to cook fish

You have no idea how many times a day I am asked “Can you tell me how to cook my fish?” For some reason people are a bit intimidated by cooking fish and shellfish when in reality it is as simple as chicken and even less than meat. I think one reason many non-experienced home fish cooks are intimidated and would rather eat fish out instead of cooking in their own kitchen is fish odors sometimes lingers. This can be avoided by cooking outside or by doing an immediate clean up and trash removal after dinner is served. Although there is some

Storing and handling tips should be successful. If you don’t have that luxury, you might do better by sleeping in and fishing later in the day when it’s warmer. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by agricultural, industrial and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

Tight Lines, Capt. Rick Grassett FFI Certified Fly Casting Instructor Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Orvis Outfitter of the Year-2011 Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. www.snookfin-addict.com and www.flyfishingflorida.us E-mail snookfin@aol.com (941) 923-7799 (office)

27th State Media LLC

Notes from the Island Fishmonger

The leading cause of most foodborne illnesses is improper food river. Any structure with a depth handling, preparation and storage. change is a likely place to catch a I suggest your very first step is snook. Docks, bridges, and oyster to hook up with a reputable local bars are all very productive, fish monger that you can trust to especially those with some ensure the best seafood quality current. and safety guidelines. Here are the Plugs and scented soft plastic most important tips for buying fish. baits are the top choices, along First of all, when food shopping, with a large hand-picked shrimp. visit your fish monger on your way Surf fishing should be good for home in order to purchase your a variety of species providing the seafood last and keep it cold. If you water is clear and not roiled up. have a few minutes before you get Whiting, silver trout, flounder, home, you should always ask for a pompano, Spanish mackerel, and bag of ice or even travel with your ladyfish with hit both live shrimp own cooler. The meat without feet and artificial lures. that you purchase should be firm A jig tipped with a small piece with a fresh sea breeze aroma and of shrimp works well bounced no discoloration. Clams, mussels along the bottom. Mackerel and and oysters should be closed or will ladyfish will hit flash lures such close after a tap as they should be as silver spoons and plugs. I live alive. Do not be embarrassed to ask shrimp fished on the bottom to smell the fish. If it has a strong with just enough weight to get fishy smell odor, it’s going to have down is a simple but effective a strong fishy taste. Of course, your technique and will catch anything fish should taste like fish, but fresh that swims. Anglers targeting fish tastes clean. When somebody pompano will do well with live or approaches my fish counter and frozen sand fleas. asks the question “What do you The beach should come alive have that’s not fishy tasting?” my this month, provided the winds answer is “You’re buying your fish cooperate. Spanish and king from the wrong person!” mackerel will invade the area, How much do I buy is a FAQ? along with cobia, sharks, and How much do you eat is an answer false albacore. The inshore reefs but probably a better suggestion is off of Lido Key are a great place an average dinner serving of fish to start, they hold a lot of fish. is around a half pound of meat Trolling spoons and plugs is a per person. Four people at your deadly technique and will fill the dinner table equals two pounds cooler in short order. For more of fish. Thank you, Mr. Obvious. sport, look for breaking fish on the If your fish monger is advertising surface and cast plugs, spoons, or 21/25 Shrimp or 10/15 Scallops that flies out into the frenzy, a vicious means, there are approximately strike should occur immediately! that many in a pound.

Continued from previous page

surface or in passes. Cobia may be swimming on the surface, around buoys, channel markers and crab trap floats or over structure. Tripletail may also be an option during warmups in the coastal gulf. This can be a tough month to fish. With frequent fronts and cool water, fish aren’t always in an eating mood. If you’re able to pick good tides combined with favorable weather conditions, you

MARCH 2021

Rule #1 in my fish market is if you

inconvenience in cooking seafood at home, all of us seafood lovers know that after each bite you realize the swift cleanup is worth it. Here are some seafood cooking tips that will make cooking fish as simple as 1-2-3! The general rule for cooking fish is 8-10 minutes per inch at 350°F or when it is at an internal temperature of 145°F. If the fish is cooked in sauce or in foil, add 5 minutes to the cooking time. Fish is done when the flesh becomes opaque and flakes easily at its thickest part. Opaque means preventing light from travelling through and therefore not transparent or translucent. Shrimp and scallops become opaque when fully cooked also. One pound of shrimp added to boiling water should be simmered for 3 to 5 minutes. Scallops should also be boiled or grilled for 3 to 5 minutes depending on your preference. Do not overcook. Oysters and clams should be cooked steamed or grilled until the shells pop open and it’s the same with mussels, but they will only take half the time as the oysters and clams.

Benefits of Fish & Fish Oil

Apparently, you can’t eat enough fish. Not only is it good for our immune system as times like these call for, but there are several other benefits the Omega-3 fatty acids found in seafood provide. A healthy body needs its Omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids are incredibly essential for your body and brain. Omega 3 lowers cholesterol, can fight depression and anxiety, it promotes brain health, improves risk factors for heart disease, fights age related mental decline, may help prevent cancer, promotes healthy joints, skin and, most importantly, it is great for the heart. Where do you get this fatty acid? It comes from several sources including fish and nuts. Google it…it’s all true! Ideally, we all know we should get 2 to 4 servings of fish per week. Oily fish like salmon, tuna, mackerel, canned sardines/anchovies, striped bass, and herring have the highest percentages of Omega-3 oil content followed by cod, halibut, flounder, trout, mussels, oysters, swordfish and snapper (not in any particular order). A six ounce serving, 2 to 4 times a week, will supply a beneficial dose of Omega-3 fatty acids. Live Well...Eat Fish Scott Dolan BigWater Fish Market BigWaterFishMarket.com 6641 Midnight Pass Road Siesta Key

MARCH 2021 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay

March 2021

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date

Day

1:20a

1.8

1:51p

1.5

8:35a

-0.1

2:15a

1.6

2:16p

1.6

9:03a

3:16a

1.4

2:46p

1.8

9:27a

4:36a

1.1

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1.9

9:43a

4:06p

1.9

12:04a

5:03p

1.9

1:37a

6:24p

1.9

3:06a

High Tide

Low Tide

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset

8:37p

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6:55a

6:31p

9:14p

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10:19p

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11:25p

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6:33p

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6:51a

6:34p

12:31a

11:22a

-0.3

6:49a

6:34p

1:37a

12:14p

-0.5

6:48a

6:35p

2:40a

1:10p

9:55a 10:36a

8:00p

1.8

4:17a

-0.6

6:47a

6:35p

3:39a

2:09p

12:28p

1.3

9:22p

1.8

5:10a

-0.6

3:55p

1.2

6:46a

6:36p

4:31a

3:10p

12:30p

1.3

10:26p

1.8

5:52a

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5:05p

0.9

6:45a

6:36p

5:17a

4:11p

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1.3

11:17p

1.8

6:27a

-0.4

5:55p

0.7

6:44a

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1.4

6:55a

-0.3

6:36p

0.6

6:43a

6:38p

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12:53p

1.5

7:19a

-0.1

7:13p

0.4

6:42a

6:38p

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1:41a

1.6

2:03p

1.6

8:40a

0.1

8:49p

0.2

7:41a

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8:55p

2:19a

1.6

2:16p

1.6

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0.3

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1.9

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7:36a

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10:41a

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1.0

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11:18a

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1.9

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2:13a

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7:32a

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4:36a

-0.3

7:31a

7:44p

2:35p

4:02a

12:34p

1.3

9:46p

1.8

5:28a

-0.3

4:39p

1.2

7:30a

7:44p

3:36p

4:50a

12:38p

1.4

10:53p

1.9

6:12a

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0.9

7:28a

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ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 43 HOMES FOR SALE PAGE 41 SIESTA KEY MARKET STATS PAGE 39

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 SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE 4140 ROBERTS POINT CIRCLE, $6.1 MILLION Stunning modern architectural design and exceptional use of materials and finishes combine to create this extraordinary private waterfront paradise on the north end of world-famous Siesta Key. The entry level boasts a stunning glass hallway with access to the pool and patio area as well as a bonus family room, kitchenette, workout

LOWEST PRICED SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE 5225 WINDING WAY, $535,000 Rare opportunity to own this Ruth Richmond original, and take a step into Mad Men style and sophistication set in a tropical canopy of oaks and palms on world-famous Siesta Key.

one bath plus a separate office/ sleeping area. Furnished deluxe condo. A view of the bay and/or the gulf is seen from every part of the condo. Updates to the unit include skip trowel ceilings, Thomasville solid wood kitchen, Silestone quartz

floor plan of this three-bedroom, two-bath luxurious home. A state-of-the-art kitchen with beautiful wood cabinetry, granite countertops, built-in oven, cooktop, and stainless appliances are perfect for entertaining due to the open concept floor plan blending seamlessly to the dining and living areas. The master suite features a full wall of sliding glass doors overlooking the spacious terrace. His-and-her custom closets, dual sinks, garden tub and separate shower complete the owner’s private retreat. Two additional guest rooms with

walk-in closets are thoughtfully located at the opposite end of the condo for complete privacy. Both enjoy easy access to the rear terrace. The adjoining mud room offers a second private service elevator, beverage refrigerator and freezer together with additional open shelving storage. It is truly “all about the view” and the view cannot be beat from this seventh-floor location. Two assigned parking spaces within the garage offer additional storage racks for pool and beach toys. Courtesy of Coldwell Banker

full bullnose counters, stainless steel appliances, bamboo solid wood wall-to-wall flooring throughout, newer bedroom window and front door, new A/C in 2015.. Courtesy of Re/Max Alliance

SOLD

SETH: 941. 342. SOLD AL: 941. 479. 1175

side of the great room while two additional guest suites are located down a private hall on the other side. A full wet bar, including a temperature-controlled wine room and a study complete the interior spaces. The expansive waterfront deck features covered and uncovered seating areas, a fireplace, a large rectangular pool, a spa, and a summer kitchen. For the boating enthusiast, there is a fully equipped boat dock with a lift, located on Nettie Bayou. Courtesy of Premier Sothebys

of this original home has been lovingly maintained, including Ruth’s coveted Lucite gold door pulls that remind you just how rare this piece of history truly is. Only 1 mile to Siesta Beach’s crystal quartz sands. Newer metal roof and air, this price includes furnishings. Courtesy of TKey Solutions Real Estate

Beautiful corner lot and built on a berm, your driveway takes you 9 feet above the street to your solidly built concrete block/stucco cottage. Ambling, gorgeous terrazzo flooring flows from room to room with smart and functional design. Disappearing sliding doors transition you to a covered and screened spacious lanai. Every detail

HIGHEST PRICED CONDO 1660 SUMMERHOUSE LANE, STE 702 $1.6 MILLION From fabulous sunrises to spectacular sunsets, the views from this remarkable condo will take your breath away. Enjoy convenience of private beach access directly across the street. The gated community of Summer Cove is home to only 45 condominium residences. As you enter the lovely foyer from your private elevator, soothing lighting automatically illuminates your way to the spacious

LOWEST PRICED CONDO 8897 MIDNIGHT PASS ROAD, #304 $295,000 Priced below market value at owner’s request. Direct bay view from this 903-square-foot unit. One bedroom/

area, and guest suite. Built for entertaining, the large great room anchors the main living level and features a state-of-the-art kitchen boasting Neff custom cabinetry, high-end appliances including a fiveburner gas cooktop, a large rectangular island, and multiple prep and seating areas. The living and dining areas open out onto the expansive waterfront terrace allowing for even more entertaining space or just a place to enjoy an incredible sunset. The very private master suite is situated on one

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458 Island Circle Sarasota, Florida

Wonderful Siesta Key Grand Canal home located on desirable Palm Island (a Island on a Island) just a few minutes walk to Siesta Beach. You will fall in love with this 3,366 square foot 4 bedroom/3.5 bathroom Key West style home. Chill in the Mangrove shaded yard around the Fire Pit. This incredibly light & bright home features gleaming hardwood floors throughout the home, arched walls, crown molding. Glazed wood cabinetry in kitchen with stainless steel appliances, gorgeous custom granite counters & designer tile backsplash. Upstairs is a large master bedroom suite with tray ceiling & balcony with lovely water views, 2 additional oversized bedrooms and bath. The en-suite 4th bedroom is located on a separate, private level, ideal for a home office or guests. Relax on the multiple screened-in lanais overlooking the private backyard with heated swimming pool. Screened pool area on the canal with a boat lift & dock.

$1,315,000

413 Island Circle, Siesta Key, Florida Palm Island - Paradise on Siesta Key. Renovate or build new. This Tropical Home with separate In-Law suite is a 3 minute walk to world famous Siesta Beach. Palm Island has its own beach access (Beach Access 10). This home is sited on a large lot (12,426 sf) with excellent potential for a new home to build if you wish. Lovely setting on a tranquil Bayou for whittling the hours away in peaceful bliss. Live in the existing 4 bedroom / 3 bathroom home with open kitchen and large In-Law suite or split build new. This house is just a short walk to all the shopping, bistros & nightlife Siesta Key Village has to offer. You will love Palm Island, “An Island on Siesta Key”, close to everything , yet secluded.

$699,000

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Located mid-Siesta Key on beautiful Crescent Beach, The Crescent is one of the newest condominium complexes on the Key.

A luxury, boutique condominium community, the 26-unit complex is constructed in the contemporary cosmopolitan architectural style. Built directly on the beach, the complex features tropical landscaping, two resort-style pools -- including one on the beach with a spa, the other with fountains and grill areas. One owner compares the building’s architectural style to the post-war Miami Modern movement.

“The style is about sharp angles, concrete, glass, and minimal curved elements,” the owner said. The design is carried inside the units which feature open floorplans, high ceilings, abundant sliding glass doors and windows of impact glass, as well as high transom windows -- allowing for an abundance of natural light. According to Realtor Bob Ruiz of Key Solutions Real Estate,

“Unusual to Siesta Key, the architecture is contemporary -- one of only two modern highrise complexes on the Key. Built in 2006, the community offers spacious two-bedroom and threebedroom units.” Each unit features large master suites, high ceilings throughout, and centrally located kitchens with island seating. All units have balcony lanais, many with outdoor kitchens. Under-building parking and lock-off storage make access to automobiles and beach gear super convenient. Two elevators provide quick and easy access to the units. Amenity-rich, other facilities available to owners include a wonderfully equipped fitness center and beautifully appointed community/social room with a tremendous walkout balcony overlooking the mid-key village. The community is located across the street from Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster Bar, Sneaky Tiki, the Daiquiri Deck and other fun, eclectic restaurants. A myriad of shops, convenience stores, and beach gear rental facilities are within a very short walk. It’s a private “barefoot-feel”

community, so walk out the back of the complex to whitesand Crescent Beach and the Point of Rocks just beyond. Ideal for snorkeling and fishing, the limestone ledge at Point of Rocks provides for surprisingly beautiful underwater discoveries. With a flexible rental policy, The Crescent has an onsite manager to assist with rentals and any owner need. During season (January through April) units may be rented for a onemonth minimum. The remainder of the year, units may be rented on a weekly basis. Professional management is dedicated to providing owners a carefree experience whether on-site or off-site. Ruiz says, “Management does an excellent job of maintaining and continually upgrading the property.”

CURRENT LISTINGS AND SALES

Unit 206 is currently listed for sale by Todd Nahrwold of Key Solutions Real Estate Group for $1.329 million. Nahrwold says, “This twobedroom, two-bath turnkey furnished unit features a large

west-facing covered lanai with an outdoor kitchen. The unit lives like a single-family home on the beach. Situated in a highly sought-after location within the community, this is one of only four units in the complex to allow direct access from the private lanai to the beautiful courtyard pool. Averaging near six figures gross annual rental income, this unit provides the owner both a resort lifestyle and a sound investment.” Nahrwold says one of the biggest attractions to buyers is the ability to “literally walk to everything – a marina with boat storage, fuel, maintenance, boat rentals, bicycles shops, Crescent Market groceries, quaint restaurants, bars, pharmacy, liquor stores.” He adds, “Buyers at The Crescent seek the high-end beach lifestyle and the excellent rental opportunities afforded by the complex. The majority of owners utilize their units as vacation homes in-season and rent the rest of the year. Several owner families own multiple units.” Recent sales include unit 407, a two-bedroom, twobath unit which sold in November for $1million, and unit 504, a threebedroom, two-and-a-halfbath unit which sold in October for $1.372 million. To learn more about Crescent Siesta Key or any other Siesta Key property, contact Bob Ruiz, Key Solutions Real State Group, at (941) 544-3299 or RobertRuizRR@aool.com.

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Join Key Chorale on March 1 for a Live Stream Event, Tomorrow’s Voices Tonight Benefitting Key Chorale’s Student Scholar Program SARASOTA, FL - After careful consideration, Key Chorale is extremely excited to present their annual Tomorrow’s Voices Tonight, Student Scholar Soirée as a live stream event for everyone’s convenience and comfort. The Student Scholars will be showcasing 14 selections as they entertain with songs from Classics to Broadway as well as a special group performance of “I Dreamed a Dream” from the musical Les Misérables. Enjoy special guests, testimonials, a few surprises, and

a sneak peak of Key Chorale’s upcoming “Coronation” concert premiere. Because of the postponement of their annual fundraising luncheon, Perfect Pitch, Key Chorale is incorporating their usual luncheon paddle raise into this event. And, new for 2021 - take a chance (or several) on three (3) exciting prize packages! All proceeds go towards Key Chorale’s Music & Mission. Key Chorale’s Student Scholar Program is designed to prepare gifted juniors and

seniors for college-level success in music. This experience is designed for students with an exceptional aptitude for music, who plan to further their musical studies after high school. There is a required minimum high school GPA of 3.0, to encourage academic commitment along with musical commitment. Student Scholars are first recommended by their choir director and then selected through personal interviews and competitive auditions. Student Scholars sing a full performance season with Key

Chorale as well as part of several other performance opportunities and master classes held throughout the season. All experiences are made available at no cost to the selected participants. For more information and tickets to the March 1st live stream event, visit KeyChorale.org. To view the recorded “I Dreamed a Dream” performance - https://youtu.be/ Fj9YwUD1PQg

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Volleyball hits Siesta Beach with massive tournament Photos by Trebor Britt

The annual East End Beach Volleyball Tournament kicked up the sand on Siesta Beach on Feb. 6 and 7, as 30 volleyball nets were installed to accommodate the 480 participants. High school junior Kristina Gluch (17) of Orlando setting the ball for her partner as they prepare for an 18-under Junior Division match near the beautiful Gulf of Mexico shoreline. “Honestly I like the people I play with. My partners have fun energy and it’s a nice environment, super fun,”

Keswick Christian School sophomore, Lauren Cook (16) of Redington Beach stretching to save a point at the East End Volleyball Tournament on incredible Siesta Beach. Her partner arrived in the U.S. just a month ago from Ukraine. They competed in both the Women’s Pro Open and Junior Divisions.

Mckenna Flaherty (17) of Sarasota leaping high to block a spike in a Women’s Open beach volleyball match on Siesta Beach. She and her partner have been teamed up for only a month. Asked what she likes most about beach volleyball she said, “Meeting new people from a lot of different places.“

Violeta Slabakova of Bulgaria officiating and keeping score of a women’s Pro Open beach volleyball match. All players are called on to serve as officials of a match after they finish a match of their own. The finals of Pro Open matches are officiated by licensed officials. Slabakova currently lives in St. Petersburg.

Olympic Gold Medalist and six-foot-seven-inch Ricardo Santos of Brazil leaping high in the air to spike-serve a ball in a Men’s Pro Open Division match on Siesta Beach. Santos won medals in three Olympics. In the year 2000 he won a silver medal, in 2004 a gold medal and in 2008 a bronze.

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Commissioners move forward with amendments relating to Siesta Key hotel proposals By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com In late January, the Sarasota County commissioners heard four Siesta Key residents urge them to remove, from their consent agenda of routine business matters, three different proposals that could affect residential density and intensity not just on Siesta Key but also on the other barrier islands within the county’s jurisdiction. However, after also listening to remarks by Matt Osterhoudt, director of the county’s Planning and Development Services Department, the board members voted unanimously to approve the three requests. “I want to be very clear,” Commissioner Christian Ziegler said, “this is a vote just to move forward with the process to consider these options or proposals. This is not a vote on the final projects.” Each of the consent agenda items called for commission approval of the PDS staff to begin work on proposed county Comprehensive Plan amendments outside the normal cycle for such work. Ziegler asked that all three be pulled from the consent agenda for discussion on Jan. 26. Commissioner Mike Moran asked for assurance from County Attorney Frederick Elbrecht that “the community [will have] plenty of opportunities … to be heard … all in the Sunshine?” He was referring to the state’s open meetings law. “That is correct,” Elbrecht

replied. “This is just a procedural vote.” “These are going to be highly contentious [with] lots of public input, lots of conversation about the substance of the issue,” Commissioner Nancy Detert pointed out. Then responding to a question from Detert, Osterhoudt said, “We do feel that we have enough resources to be able to handle [the reviews] out of cycle.”

The projects behind the proposed amendments

The consent agenda items pertained to proposals for three Siesta Key hotel projects: a 170room hotel planned on four parcels between Calle Miramar and Beach Road, near the Beach Road/Ocean Boulevard intersection; a 120-room hotel designed for property on Old Stickney Point Road, close to the Midnight Pass Road/Stickney Point Road intersection; and the redevelopment of the Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites hotel, located at 5311 Ocean Blvd., from a 55-room facility to one with 170 rooms. To make the projects feasible, each team has proposed a county Comprehensive Plan amendment to Future Land Use Policy 2.9.1, which restricts residential density and intensity on the barrier islands, partly in an effort to facilitate hurricane evacuations. The Calle Miramar project team proposes eliminating residential

density calculations for all “transient accommodations” — the term county staff uses for hotels — on the barrier islands. Gary Kompothecras , the owner of the Old Stickney Point Road property, wants to double the residential density allowed for hotels just in what Kompothecras calls the “South Bridge area,” south of the Stickney Point Road/Midnight Pass Road intersection. Finally, SKRS LLC, owner of the Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites, is seeking an amendment that would allow owners of existing resorts, hotels and motels to “have an opportunity to redevelop their properties without density limits because that’s what they have paid for … when they purchased their properties,” the preliminary application explained. SKRS LLC also proposes a companion Unified Development Code text amendment that would apply countywide to any transient accommodation with 40 or more units that was built before March 13, 1989 and remains in operation as of the date the amendment would take effect. The Unified Development Code contains all the county’s land-use and zoning regulations. County zoning regulations for parcels zoned for commercial purposes on Siesta Key allow transient accommodations, but only if the County Commission approves a special exception for a

hotel or motel use. Additionally, any hotel room without a kitchen counts as half a dwelling unit. County regulations allow a maximum of 13 dwelling units per acre on commercial general property; thus, the number of hotel rooms allowed on 1 acre would be 26.

Seeking a comprehensive approach

Mark Spiegel, chair of the Siesta Key Coalition, was among the island residents who urged the commission to deny the applicants’ requests for the outof-cycle review. The coalition was organized last year to oppose hotel projects that exceed the island’s existing commercial development regulations. After the commission votes, Spiegel said “The real message we are trying to say to our county planning staff and commissioners is that the implications have a major impact on Siesta Key and we genuinely want, as stakeholders of Siesta Key, to have a county-run forum where we can not only share concerns, but recommend issues to consider and study.” Spiegel has expressed dismay with the fact that attorneys and representatives of landdevelopment consulting firms handled the county-required neighborhood workshops for the Calle Miramar and Kompothecras projects “as important.”

Spiegel continued, “we feel we can put forth for benefit of the county and … developers what type of true boutique hotel we would support, one that would be better sized and designed in the character of Siesta Key, and have less adverse intensity impact on our roads and beaches, and require less precedentsetting and fewer material changes to our protective codes and policies. We want to share what we are for, not just want we are against.” He added, “This doesn’t need to be highly controversial and adversarial if the county would engage with organizations like SK Coalition, SKCC [the Siesta Key Condominium Council], SKA [the Siesta Key Association] and the [Siesta Key] Chamber of Commerce in a proactive forum.” Todd Dary, manager of the county’s Planning Division, said the project teams for the Calle Miramar and Kompothecras hotels already have conducted their neighborhood workshops, in compliance with county regulations. “Applicants are required to hold one neighborhood workshop within nine months of a scheduled Planning Commission public hearing,” Dary said. “We do not anticipate additional neighborhood workshops unless they would exceed the nine-month requirement for timeliness.”

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• 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

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Cover of 2021 Siesta Key Chamber Guide. Julie Carns photograph that made the cover of the 2021 Chamber Guide. Photo is of Siesta Key Sailing sailboat. US Coast Guard Master Captain Tim Solomon, and his wife of 44 years, Jan Hamel Solomon (Siesta Beach Girl Since 1960) have the longest running sailing charter in three counties. The 2021 Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce guides are now available. You can pick up your copy at the Chamber of Commerce office located at 514 Ocean Blvd in The Village. You can pick up a copy at one of the following locations: Siesta Sand newspaper boxes located on Siesta Key Morton’s Siesta Market CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Crescent Beach Grocery (outside box) Dutch Valley Restaurant Best Western Plus Siesta Key

New const ruction on the Grand Canal. This custom home built this year will exceed your expectations. Walking distance to the village and Siesta Key beach. Very close boating to reach Sarasota Bay. Also, perfect for paddle boarding and kayaking. This 4-bedroom, 4-bath home is a Siesta Key gem on a quiet cul de sac. The coastal contemporary home boasts clean lines along with all high-end finishes and appliances including a stainless steel elevator. This grand canal property has an entirely brand new seawall and cap along with wood dock. Come enjoy the Florida lifestyle as you entertain friends and family on your travertine patio deck overlooking your pool and canal. If interested, call 941-650-4935 or 941-915-8409. • THE POINTE - Lovely well maintained third f loor 2/2. Water views from every room. Spacious lanai span ning across the unit overlooks Little Sarasota Bay and the ICW. Inside washer/dryer closet and abundant closet space. Furnished - just bring your clothing and personal items and you can have the best of everything. Gated communit y with every amenit y. MLS# A4491468 $449,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-5443299 or Sheri: 941- 400- 4186. THE POINTE - Beautifully renovated and furnished 2/2 with fabulous water views. Fabulous kitchen and baths, tile th roughout, g reat lighting features and built-ins. Inside washer and dryer. Convenient carport parking. Move-in ready. MLS# A4472542 $495,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941- 400- 4186.

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.

To advertise in call: 941-312-0665

THE POINTE - If you seek views, look no further. This 9th f loor end unit has incredible views north to Sarasota, east to Little Sarasota Bay and the ICW, and west to the Gulf of Mexico. Ext ra-large 2/2 at 1,380 square feet. Tiled th roughout. Interior laundry room. MLS # A4487826 $699,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-5443299 or Sheri: 941- 400- 4186. W HISPERING SANDS - Fabulous free-standing VILLA feels like a single family home with the advantage of being maintenance free. Oversized corner lot. Recently and beautifully renovated 2/2 with attached garage and laundry. Great outdoor living. Beach front communit y with every amenit y. MLS# A4487369 $599,999. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941- 400- 4186. PRICE CHANGE LUXURIOUS BEACHFRONT CONDO In the prestigious communit y, Crescent Siesta Key. This turn key furnished unit with a large West facing covered lanai, featuring an OUTDOOR KITCHEN, lives like a home on the beach. Highly sought after location, as it is one of on ly four units in the complex to allow direct access from the private lanai to the beautiful court yard pool area. Averaging near six fig ure g ross an nual RENTAL INCOME, this

unit provides the owner both a resort lifest yle and a sound investment. Perfectly located within walking distance to the restaurants and shops of South Siesta Village and Siesta Key Marina. 6512 Midnight Pass Road, #206, Sarasota, FL 34242 , MLS# A4478581, $1,379,000. Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255 SURROUNDED BY WATER ON THREE SIDES The POINTE affords incomparable views. From this lovely t wo bedroom, t wo bath condo at the southern most end of Siesta Key you will wake to awe-inspiring sun rises over Neville Preserve on Little Sarasota Bay and marvel at the spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. This impeccable unit has been beautifully renovated from f loor to ceiling to include diagonally inset tile f looring th roughout, solid-wood cabinets with g ranite counter-tops and stain less appliances in the open kitchen, and renovated baths. 9393 Midnight Pass Road, #205, Sarasota, FL 34242, MLS# A4472542 , $495,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255 NE W A PIECE OF PARADISE This beautifully renovated beach front condo will not last long! On one of the most famous beaches in the count ry, Siesta Key! Boasting t wo pools, ten nis, volleyball and shuff leboard courts, as well as picnic areas featuring gas g rills. Additionally, Casa Mar is among the top short term rental prog rams on Siesta Key. Don’t miss out on this gem in paradise. 6006 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #28, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS# A4487193, $349,900, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255 NE W STUNNING VIE WS from th ree-bedroom, t wo-and-a-half bath room beach condo. The views are stun ning, and the sunsets never disappoint. The total square footage is 2,245 square feet with 1,845 square feet of air conditioned space with five private balconies, th ree of which are oversized. This f lowing open f loor plan is perfect for beachside living and elegant entertaining. A walker’s paradise on the white sands of Siesta Beach to the heart of the village, restaurants, boutiques, and nightlife. 5400 OCEAN BLVD, #1-3, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS# A4486556, $1,795,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941894-1255

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expense of $250,000. Spencer Anderson, director of the county’s Public Works Department, said that if the commissioners approved the budget amendment, construction possibly could begin in the fall or near the end of this year. However, he said “That is a very rough estimate at this stage.” The staff memo also noted, “The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce provided project proposal information to surrounding community groups about the parking plan. The Siesta Key Association (SKA), the Siesta Key Condominium Council (SKCC) and the Whispering Sands Condominium Association have provided written and oral feedback against the new proposed angled parking (spaces),” citing safety concerns. The right-of-way where the majority of the new parking spots are planned is in front of a section of Whispering Sands. Funding for both the parking spaces and the design of the roundabout — which is anticipated to cost $360,000 — falls “within the scope of the Operations, Safety and Signalization Program (Capital Improvement Program) project,” the staff memo said. The funds will come out of gastax revenue the county receives, the memo added.

Fish farm

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On Oct. 6, local architect Mark Smith, a long-time director of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, appeared before the commissioners to revive the proposal for the Village parking spots. Smith pointed out that the plan arose out of his discussions in 2015 with Maio on the need to expand public parking in the Village. Smith then showed the commissioners a concept he had created, with 18 spaces on the west side of Ocean Boulevard, across from the Old Salty Dog restaurant, and four more in front of the former Lofino Building, which is just north of the Old Salty Dog. “Parking is a premium on Siesta Key,” Smith said, “and this, we believe, is a good solution. … What we’d be removing is palmetto and cabbage palms.” Five years ago, Maio said “We didn’t have the money for this.” Five years later, he said “We’ll find the money.” County Administrator Jonathan Lewis tasked Anderson of public works with analyzing Smith’s proposal and coming up with an estimate for the work. The Siesta Key Condominium Council and the Siesta Key Association have been adamant opponents of the plan. Both nonprofits have stressed that the angled parking spots will create hazards for drivers trying to back out of the spaces

as vehicles enter the Village. Not only do vehicles tend to speed entering the area from the north — as SKA members frequently have complained — but large delivery trucks often are parked in the center turn lane so deliveries can be made to area businesses. Further, SKA president Catherine Luckner has said the affected section of the sidewalk is one of the few wide enough for pedestrians and bicyclists to share with ease, “and we need to keep those wide spaces.” During the SKA’s Jan. 7 meeting, Luckner and members continued to talk about their opposition to the parking spaces.

Views regarding the roundabout

As for the roundabout, a survey county staff conducted last year regarding residents’ view of the proposal found that 29.89% of respondents preferred improvements to the signalized intersection, while 32.07% wanted no changes at the at all. Those who favored a roundabout represented 33.15% of the 552 responses, the Jan. 26 county staff memo noted. During SKA meetings held since the County Commission agreed to move forward with the roundabout, Luckner has noted the survey results, indicating that it

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project would be expected to produce “up to 80,000 pounds of marketable fish,” the EPA explained in its Dec. 18 answer to the environmental groups’ petition. The EPA also notes in a fact sheet that the maximum amount of feed for the fish has been estimated at 27,268 pounds per month. “Aquaculture facilities produce and discharge wastes (excess fish feed and fecal material) that contain pollutants, which are defined as including solid waste, biological materials, and industrial waste,” the EPA fact sheet notes. “Accordingly, marine finfish aquaculture operations are point sources that discharge pollutants and are required to obtain NPDES permits.” In the Feb. 1 brief, the petitioners also allege that the “EPA’s ODCE [Ocean Discharge Criteria Evaluation] failed to address one of the 10 mandatory factors with regards to phosphorus, nitrogen, and antibiotic discharges: ‘the potential impact of the discharge on human health through direct and indirect pathways. … This omission was particularly glaring,” the petitioners add, “as the very definition of ‘unreasonable degradation’ [in the Clean Water Act] includes ‘any

threat to human health through direct exposure to pollutants or through consumption of exposed aquatic organisms.’ … EPA acknowledges the potential of antibiotic discharges to contribute to antibiotic resistance … and the potential of harmful algal blooms to ‘directly or indirectly cause illness in people.’ … Yet,” the petitioners point out, “EPA again argues that mitigation measures will render these discharges ‘minimal,’ but fails to point to any such discussion of potential health impacts in the ODCE.” Further, the petitioners argue, “The ODCE contains no analysis of location-specific impacts of antibiotic use in the Gulf of Mexico or from a similar offshore net pen facility. Instead, EPA refers only to studies from around the world, such as Japan, Norway, and the Puget Sound, all of which are more than 30 years old.” In its Dec. 18 answer to the petitioners’ initial brief, the EPA contended, “While the ODCE recognizes that other studies have noted the potential for development of antibiotic resistance from use at fish farms, especially at facilities with a practice of heavy antibiotic use or in laboratory studies that did not mimic environmental conditions,

About Key Chorale

Key Chorale, the Suncoast’s premier symphonic chorus, is dedicated to transforming lives through innovative programming, artistic excellence, educational outreach and service to the community. Key Chorale, led by Joseph Caulkins,

was clear to her that the majority of those who provided responses were opposed to the plan. Nonetheless, Anderson has emphasized the Florida Department of Transportation’s desire to create more roundabouts, as those structures are seen as safer designs for intersections, with crashes typically resulting in less serious injuries because of reduced vehicle speed. SKA leaders have put their focus on design facets that will increase safety for pedestrians and bicyclists. They have emphasized the fact that many walkers and bikers use the Midnight Pass Road/Beach Road intersection in heading to Siesta Public Beach, which is in the same vicinity. Anderson said that when the roundabout design work has been completed, it will be provided to FDOT “for incorporation into [its] larger resurfacing project on Midnight Pass Road from Stickney Point Road to Shadow Lawn Way. “Construction is anticipated to begin as early as late summer 2022,” Anderson added. The design must be transferred to FDOT by the end of October, Anderson also noted.

the ODCE further indicates that the potential for resistance to develop appears to depend on the nature of the practices at a facility and the environmental conditions. … Ultimately, based on the analysis in the ODCE, the transfer of drug resistance from fish to human pathogenic bacteria appears unlikely.” The EPA also argued that the petitioners “have not demonstrated that there will be ‘significant adverse changes’ to ecosystem diversity, productivity and stability of the biological community in or near the area of the discharge. Nor have they identified a threat to human health through ‘direct exposure to pollutants or through consumption of exposed aquatic organisms.’” A new rule that went into effect on Sept. 21 “to streamline and modernize” the EPA’s permit process says the Environmental Appeals Board must issue a final decision 60 days after an appeal “has been fully briefed and argued. The [board] may grant itself a one-time 60-day extension if it determines that the nature and complexity of the case requires additional time.”

produces high quality collaborative musical events that engage and enrich our community. Dynamic collaborations abound as they take you to unexpected places exploring almost every corner of choral music in unique one-of-a-kind concert experiences. Through dynamic collaborations with Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe, The Sarasota Ballet, The Venice Symphony, and The Circus Arts Conservatory, Key Chorale is able to create unforgettable programs that continue to push the boundaries of choral music. For more information, visit KeyChorale.org or www.facebook.com/KeyChorale/.

To advertise in print or online contact: 27th State Media LLC at 941-312-0665 Send editorial and/or photos via email to: info@27statemedia.com

Key Pack and Ship offers physical mailbox rentals for long- and shortterm periods. Small boxes are $35 for one month, $75 for three months, $100 for six months and $170 for one year. Medium-box rentals are $150 for six months and $200 for one year. Large-box rentals are $395 for one year. The store also accepts delivery of legal documents and other papers for a small fee. On-site notary public service is also available, as is paper shredding at $1.50 per pound. Key duplication, computer access, computer printing, faxing, and shipping through USPS, UPS, and FedEx are also offered. A new mail service called Digital Mail Box through iPostal that allows customers to manage their mail digitally around the clock is one of Siesta Key Pack and Ship’s latest customer offerings. International shipping services are provided through DHL International and the low-cost Polonez Parcel Service that

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has a minimum of 20 pounds per item requirement. Businesses with their own accounts can drop off pre-packed and labeled shipments at the store. Siesta Key Pack and Ship is an authorized drop-off location for FedEx, UPS, USPS, and DHL. Packages and letters are not the only things that the store can move along. To better serve Siesta Key’s mobile clientele when it comes time to transporting fragile valuables and furniture from vacation homes, estate sales and intrafamily transfers of valuable items, customers can access the store’s full service on-site “white glove” crating and freighting service. In the coming months plans call for increasing the number of rental mailboxes and adding finger printing and passport services. Siesta Key Pack and Ship is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., and Saturdays from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

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

Published by 27th State Media LLC Contributing Writers and Photographers will be noted with bylines. Guest commentary not necessarily the opinion of 27th State Media LLC Reproduction without written permission prohibited. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement. All business bios are extensions of the display advertisements. 27th State Media 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. 27th State Media LLC is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.

P.O. BOX 35105, Sarasota, FL 34242 www.siestasand.net

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MARCH 2021

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Sunset Beach Resort Siesta Key Dream Inn

6600 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota BestWesternSiestaKey.com 941.924.4900

Complimentary shuttle service to and from anywhere on Siesta Key. Thursday-Sunday 10AM-11PM (driver tips only)

Still Family Owned and Operated Since 2007 AAA-3 Diamond Property

• 114 Guest Rooms • One and Two Bedroom Suites Now Available • Complimentary Grab & Go Breakfast Every Morning • Free Shuttle Service to and from Siesta Key every day. • Microwave/Fridge in every guestroom *Amenities and services may be adjusted due to COVID-19, please contact the hotel or visit our website for details

Hours: Thursday 2:00PM - 8:00PM Fri.& Sat. 2:00PM - 10:00PM Happy Hour 3-6PM OPEN TO THE PUBLIC Live Music every weekend (check the schedule on Facebook or call 941-924-4900) *Use of the pool for Registered Guests Only

Siesta Sand

MARCH 2021

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Volleyball Fanatic

Emily This month’s Volleyball Fanatic is Emily (17) of North Port. She plays beach and indoor volleyball for Imagine HIgh School and the entire season was cancelled last year because of the worldwide pandemic. Since a beach volleyball team is only made up of two players, Emily especially likes the teamwork aspect. She and her partner work well together and in tournaments usually play in the Women’s BB Division. Emily said her favorite movie is, “Beauty and the Beast the old one.” Photos by Trebor Britt