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Hotel approval, chapter 2 County commissioners say yes to Old Stickney Point Road hotel and nearby parking garage, via 4-1 votes By Phil Colpas When it comes to development, the question rarely is “To build or not to build?” but rather “How much is too much?” At a Nov. 2 public hearing, the Sarasota County Commission approved two special exceptions to the building code to allow for increased density and height, clearing the way for a proposed seven-story, 120room luxury hotel to be constructed on Old Stickney Point Road, and an adjacent fivestory parking garage on Stickney Point Road.
This follows the Board’s Oct. 27, 3-2 vote to remove the limit on the number of hotel rooms allowed per acre (commissioners Nancy Detert and Christian Ziegler voted against). With the density issue resolved, developers in the first Siesta hotel project to go before the County Commission are now free to proceed with a proposed eight-story, 170-room hotel to be built at Beach Road and Calle Miramar in Siesta Key Village. These decisions were good news for
The best sand in the land, brought to life Siesta Key’s own Brian Wigelsworth (below) is all smiles a few hours before his creation, which he made with the help of sculpting teammate Matt Long, basks in the sunset on Nov. 12 after Day 1 of the Crystal Classic. Wigelsworth started the event 12 years ago, finally becoming a participant this year after serving as the organizer. For more photos of the event, go to pages 14 and 15. (submitted photos)
INSIDE: Gary Kompothecras shares his views on his project, page 12 developers, but they were met with a great deal of scathing criticism from residents. Of the 36 citizens who signed up to speak at the Nov. 2 public hearing (which went on for more than five hours), the majority were opposed to the project. Most stated Continued on page 13
Week of Dec. 13 could be critical for Save Siesta Key By John Morton The Sarasota County Legislative Delegation has agreed to another meeting with Save Siesta Key and, shortly thereafter, a likely vote regarding the group’s incorporation effort. Save Siesta Key board member Harry Anand has reported that the meeting is likely to occur the week of Dec. 13. Sometime before that, there also will likely be a local town hall meeting hosted by state Rep. Fiona McFarland and state Sen. Joe Gruters. The meeting’s intent would be to gauge local interest and flesh out any details in question. Visit our website at siestasand.us for updates, as well as savesiestakey.org. Both McFarland and Gruters represent the Key and are part of the delegation. A positive vote of support by the delegation must occur if Save Siesta Key’s incorporation effort is to go to state leaders in the form of a proposed bill. The upcoming Florida Legislature session begins in January. Meanwhile, a draft of the local bill was filed by Save Siesta Key lobbysist John Moyer in Tallahassee on Nov. 4, according to Anand. Siesta Key is the largest barrier island in Florida that is not its own muncipality. It is governed by Sarasota County. In March, a group of local residents created Save Siesta Key and held public meetings and hired consultants in an effort to pursue incorporation. It has collected nearly 2,000 petitions and raised more than $115,000 as of Nov. 15. Some of those funds have been spent on the creation of a required feasibility study and town charter. If approved by the Florida Legislature, a local referendum vote would follow. A majority vote there would result in Siesta Key becoming a town on Dec. 31, 2022.
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Singing the praises of a local church performer
A Patriots Pier tribute to our veterans
The debut of a not-so-new columnist
• Village Map/business listings PAGES 22, 23 • Music Calendar PAGE 29 • Crescent Beach Map/ business listings PAGE 30 • Gulf Gate Shops PAGE 37 • Accommodations Map/ Listings PAGE 43
An artist’s rendering of the hotel that will be built near the south bridge. (submitted image)
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Greetings from the Gulf
Word on the beach
Thank you Walt, from a ways away but forever close to my heart By John Morton
W
alt Disney World’s over-the-top 50th anniversary continues to be all the rage, and I must tell you that Mickey & Co. have meant a lot to my life. I really should pay homage this holiday season with a return visit. Yes, the lines will be endless. Yes, I’ll drop a small fortune. And yes, such an idea is downright Dopey. So, my tribute will instead come in the form of this column. The Florida park opened in 1971, and my parents were kind enough to take the family in the spring of 1972 during our first visit to Siesta Key. There I was, almost 8, and finally coming to terms with the idea that the lifestyle I saw on The Jetson’s wasn’t likely in our near future. Then I was shown a brochure of the Contemporary Resort and how a monorail went right through the lobby. That blew my mind. As nifty as that was, my father thought a few nights at the Polynesian Resort was also in order. Apparently, the hula girls at the nightly luau could move even more impressively, or so I was told. The Haunted Mansion was off the charts, the Hall of Presidents was mesmerizing, and the Carousel of Progress was enchanting. It’s by far my favorite attraction, despite being a man accused of being stuck in 1979. As for It’s a Small World, I was too little to understand how a two-hour wait for that ride was quite the contradiction. Anyway, Disney must have been giggling when it brought that same attraction to Tokyo. A subsequent visit to Disney in 1976 -- the year my family bought our place on Siesta Key -- introduced me to a whole new eye-popper, heart-stopper: Space Mountain. I had never ridden a roller coaster, and pardon the spoiler alert but much of the hours-long wait for Space Mountain is spent inside the attraction in the pitch black, watching the neon flashes of the space-age missiles roar above you,
complete with the endless screams of their passengers. Were they screams of delight? Screams of terror? I wasn’t sure, and I decided I didn’t want to know. So, literally as it was finally my turn to step on in, I did an about-face and rode a nearby escalator down to safety. I no longer heard screams. Just boos and laughs. And when I reached the sunlight, there was Snow White to greet me. To console me? No, she instead told me in a snarky tone that an eighth dwarf named Wimpy had just been born. OK, I made up that last part. Anyway, I have never stepped foot on a roller coaster since, and never will. Unless, of course, you count the Sunshine Skyway Bridge. The last time I was at Disney was in 2003, feeling obligated to bring my three kids just like my parents had done for me and my sisters. Since then, I’ve missed three presidents in that hallowed hall -- and I’m so fine with that. As for the latest chapter in the carousel, I presume it’s a family sitting around with their cell phones in their face. Now that I’ve declared that the theme park itself is forever in my rearview mirror, I want to make it clear that, for me, Disney is nonetheless divine. The very word transcends what you find in the Magic Kingdom. It’s a slice of Americana that is without equal. The incredible movies. The unforgettable songs. The beloved characters. And Annette Funicello. Ooh la la. Further, as those of you who grew up as Baby Boomers will likely attest, there was something warm and fuzzy we felt every Sunday night as The Wonderful World of Disney shined upon our TVs. When Tinkerbell’s wand did its thing above the Cinderella Castle in the opening scene, our topsy-turvy world suddenly seemed innocent and peaceful for at least an hour or two. It was a nice way to mentally regroup for the horrors of Monday. Years later, Disney would come to my
rescue in an even more profound way. And it came in the form of one word: Pixar. It was the fall of 1995, my first born was a year old, and I was frazzled. Hair on end. Then, I heard about something called Toy Story, had the VHS tape of it in my hand the second it was released, and forever kicked to the curb the mindnumbing likes of the Wiggles, Barney, and the Teletubbies. Two more kids would follow, conceived in the comfort of me knowing I had astronomical animation to get us all through it. Meanwhile, only Disney could pull off the superb Super Bowl spot it pitched to the NFL back in 1987. You know, the “What are you going to do next?” bit where the game’s MVP responds with the shout of “I’m going to Disney World!” Of course, it was the least the NFL could do for a company that brought us Gus -- the movie about a field-goalkicking mule. During my former life as a sports writer, it was in the old Tampa Stadium press box during the 1991 Super Bowl when I first got to vote on this. You may recall that night -- the late Whitney Houston brought down the house with her rendition of the “Star Spangled Banner.” The game hadn’t even started, and she had my vote. Who could top that performance? As for Whitney’s stirring anthem, turns out it was prerecorded. That was the first wave of the “Houston, we have a problem” headlines for folks like me. Anyway, another life lesson for this naive boy from Wisconsin. (Rest assured, I’ve since become properly jaded!) But don’t go all Milli Vanilli on Whitney, as it was the NFL’s decision to play a tape. Hey, this just hit me: I wonder if the Buffalo Bills were for some reason banned from Disney World? Had something gone terribly wrong in the Tiki Room?
Yours truly (left) with lifetime pal at Disney, circa 1977.
Had they heckled the Country Bear Jamboree? All I know is, something has to explain four consecutive Super Bowl losses. A few Super Bowls later, in New Orleans, it was clear that Packers kickreturn specialist Desmond Howard deserved the game’s MVP. Always with the Disney angle a little bit in mind when I voted, I realized the exuberant, big-smile nature of Howard would be perfect for the next-day Disney parade. So, I chose him, as did most, and off to Lake Buena Vista he went. However, Brett Favre also had a big game -- and oh my, how I wanted to see a good ol’ boy like him on Main Street U.S.A. I envisioned a post-parade press conference where our honoree unloaded some clever lines -- like how only he could handle a ball better than Cinderella, or how Mary Poppins had one nice Chim Chim Cher-ee. When he’d mention his bare necessities, they’d have to cut him off. Hey, it wouldn’t have been any worse than what happened after the 1994 Winter Olympics. For those who may not remember, Google “Nancy Kerrigan, Disney World parade” and enjoy the ride. Too bad she didn’t. That day, she bashed Mickey like a figure skater’s knee. So, there you have it. My history with Disney. Now it’s back to work. And yes, Walt, don’t worry. I am whistling. (John Morton is managing editor of Siesta Sand).
If you could build a sand sculpture in the Crystal Classic competition, what would it be? Jamie Bryan, Ohio “A truck. Maybe it’s because I own a truck and trailer dealership.” Tonia Venice “A castle. I know that’s common, but I love them. A pretty one!”
Jerry Jeffersonville, Indiana “It would be an alligator. A big one.”
Amanda Sarasota “A mermaid. The beach needs as many mermaids as possible.” Lenny Boston “I’m an engineer, so I’d make a city and include all sorts of different architectural designs. Maybe I’d try to build Boston.”
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Siesta sees increase in sea turtle activity, compared to 2020 By Jane Bartnett On Oct. 31, the 2021 sea turtle nesting season came to an official close. The outlook for these treasured and important residents of the Siesta Key shoreline, according to Mote Marine Laboratory & Aquarium researchers, is encouraging. This year, the organization reported that the team counted a total of 3,786 nests across southwest Florida beaches. The results, according to Mote’s website, “marked the fourthhighest year in our 40 years of monitoring nests.” Mote records show that on Siesta Key beaches, as of Nov. 6, a cumulative 521 yearly sea turtle nests were documented. In addition, Mote also recorded another 603 “false crawls” on Siesta Key beaches, which indicate that a female sea turtle crawled onto the beach but returned to the gulf waters without leaving a nest. The numbers show an increase from the previous year in which
465 yearly nests were found and 581 “false crawl” reports. Siesta Key and the beaches of south Sarasota County are home to four different types of sea turtles. Loggerhead turtles are the most common, followed by green, hawksbill and Kemp’s ridley turtles. Scientists were also encouraged to find an increase in the number of green turtles. During the 2021 count there were 89 green turtle nests found along the 25 miles of beaches that were observed, marking the largest count since MOTE began this documentation in the 1990s. “Data show that nesting by loggerhead turtles declined and then rebounded in recent years, while green turtle nesting, although very low in numbers, has increased,” Mote announced. The life of a sea turtle is a dangerous one. In addition to the hazard presented by humans, birds and other animals who may
harm their nests, nesting female turtles and their young can be easily confused by artificial lights. Thinking that they see moonlight, the turtles gravitate toward land. In August, Mote reported a rescue of 27 loggerhead sea turtle hatchlings from a Longboat Key resident’s house where they were found in a swimming pool. The baby turtles were taken to the organization’s Hatching Hospital for care so they could be returned to their natural home. There are ways that seaside residents and all who live in this region can support the safety of these vital sea creatures. Sarasota County’s Lighting Guide, found on the county website, states that exterior lights should be directed low to the ground and recommends using lightbulbs with low wattage that are superior to bright white lights. Red or amber LED bulbs, with long-wave lengths, are also recommended.
Residences and businesses located within sight of the beach and sand should shield lights and keep them from shining toward the water and the sand. And, when purchasing exterior lightbulbs, experts recommend checking for lights that are certified for wildlife lighting. Window tinting can also reduce visible light transmission. To learn more, visit scgov.net and search for “sea turtle lighting guide,” or visit Mote Marine’s website at motemarine.org. Sea turtles are protected by federal laws and any harassment or interference is subject to penalty. Anyone who is aware of such illegal activity should contact the Florida Wildlife Conservation office at (888) 404-3922, the local sheriff’s department or, Motes’ Sea Turtle Conservation and Research Program at (941) 388-4331. Mote’s website has information on what to do to report sightings of sick, injured or distressed sea turtles and other sea animals.
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Island Chatter Holiday parade is Nov. 27
Saturday, Nov. 27 is the big day for the 36th annual Light Up Siesta Key & Village Holiday Parade. A festive decor and a holiday atmosphere will be on display, beginning at Avenida del Mare and Beach Road at 5:30 p.m., traveling north on Beach Road and then Ocean Boulevard, into the Village. Those looking to participate should visit siestakeychamber.com for more information, including a required preregistration form. There is a $50 fee per entry; $35 for non-profit organizations). Santa will arrive at the Siesta Center at 6:30 p.m. and will greet children and pose for pictures until 8:30 p.m. The first 250 kids who visit Santa will receive a gift bag, courtesy of Beach Bazaar. Free transportation is provided by the Siesta Breeze Trolley, from Turtle Beach to the Village, with multiple stops in between. Sponsorships are available, as are volunteer opportunities. Email mandi@ siestakeychamber.com or call (941) 349-3800.
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Children’s book now available
The ABC’s of Siesta Key, a children’s book featuring illustrations by Shawn McLoughlin that showcases all things Siesta Key, is now for sale at the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, 5114 Ocean Blvd. in Davidson Plaza. The book depicts different local events and scenes that correlate with each letter of the alphabet. The price is $15. You can also order online by visiting siestakeychamber.com. For more information, call the chamber at (941) 349-3800 Continued on page 22
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Community Spotlight Katherine Alexandra
From Russia, with love ... for music
Q
You are the music director at St. Michael the Archangel on Siesta Key. Tell us about your personal background and also your musical background. I am originally from Russia (born and raised). I graduated from the Moscow Conservatory of Music summa cum laude with a master’s degree in concert piano performance. I became a U.S. citizen in 2012 and I am very proud to be an American. I’ve always had a big dream to come to America, where everything is possible. And after many years and hard work, my dream has come true. I am very happy to be here.
A
Q A
What brought you to St. Michael’s?
I had been working at other churches before I was offered to work at St. Michael’s. As soon as I walked in, I immediately loved it here. So, it wasn’t a hard decision to accept the position of the music director (although I had to say goodbye to my previous church of St. Mary Star of the Sea, where I worked right before St. Michael’s.) I also really love the people and all the staff, and our wonderful Fr. Michael.
Q A
The holidays are approaching. Name your three favorite Christmas songs, and why. “O Holy Night,” “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,” and “Do You Hear What I Hear?” Why? Hmm ... beautiful melodies, beautiful words that speak to my heart. Especially “O Holy Night” -- that I sing in
English, French and Spanish.
Q
Getting young people involved in church can be a challenge these days. Does your music program help recruit them? Yes, I hope so! I try to choose beautiful, often more contemporary music. But what is most appealing, hopefully, to younger people is the fact that I have two other young professional musicians playing with me -the violinist and the trumpet player. It’s a privilege to have such great musicians with us at church Mass. Together we are creating an interesting, lively, beautiful ensemble.
A
Q A
What adjustments, in regard to your music program, have you had to make during the pandemic? We had to make a few adjustments. Because we can’t use our hymnals -- temporarily, we hope -- it’s hard for the congregation to sing without words. So, we decided to have more instrumental music, rather than singing. For example, during the offertory and communion. Also, sometimes we would have a longer prelude while people who couldn’t attend the Mass would watch it online. We hope it helps to lift our spirits during these difficult times.
Q
We understand you are a performer who even has recorded CDs. Other than at the church, how can people enjoy your music? Yes, I am primarily a concert performer. I’ve been performing since the age of 5. I’ve played solo concerts in Russia, Spain, and in the U.S. I have also played with symphony
A
orchestras, with different theater orchestras, and participated in theater productions as well. I perform different styles of music: classical, Broadway, pop. I also sing. Before the pandemic, I was performing in theaters, performing arts centers, country clubs, and churches in Florida, North Carolina, New Jersey, New York, Georgia, Alabama, and Vermont. When the pandemic hit, musicians only had the choice to perform online. So, that’s what I did, too. Now things are starting to reopen again, and slowly performances are coming back. I am hopeful that soon I’ll be performing again in big concert halls. I also play at a local Italian restaurant,
Chianti’s. It’s a lovely place with good food and live music. I play there on weekends. I have two CDs. One is classical piano music. The other one is singing the original songs. Also, I have several videos of my musical performances on YouTube.
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Protected tree leads to postponement with planners Prospective hotelier looking to build at old Wells Fargo site cancels meeting, tightens footprint, adds height By John Morton The man hoping to build a hotel at 5810 Midnight Pass Rd. is being forced to take a detour with his plans, due to Sarasota County’s desire to save a protected oak tree. As a result, Dave Balot has postponed his Dec. 2 meeting with the Sarasota County Planning Commission and has gone back to the drawing board. “We are not allowed to build the hotel under the canopy of the tree,” said Balot, who estimates he lost between 25 to 30 feet of his 2.15acre lot, causing the new plans to be pushed back from the road. The property is home to the former Wells Fargo bank, and sits in front of the Gulf & Bay Club. Added Balot in an email, “I would much prefer to remove the tree (and mitigate on the property), but those requests have been declined and I was told by staff that I couldn’t request that in my special exception. They basically stated, without their (Environmental Services) signing off ... I could not move forward my special exception.” That lost space is causing Balot to shorten the hotel’s footprint and add 5 to 8 feet of height in order to keep his desired number of guest rooms -- now likely 112 instead of 101, he said. That necessitates a height increase from 54 feet to as much as 62 feet with more rooms vertically along the sides of the hotel’s courtyard, starting above the parking garage. Balot scrapped an initial adjustment plan where he would build rooms above the lobby and
A massive oak tree has caused a prospective hotel builder to regroup on his proposal. (photo by John Morton)
restaurant, in part because it would diminish the morning sunlight reaching the hotel’s courtyard. He also considered adding rooms in front of a stairwell, but additional hallways would have been needed to access them. Furthermore, they wouldn’t have a view of the pool. As of now, the lobby remains on the ground level, along with surface parking and a valet drop-off area. The second floor still holds a parking garage, kitchen, banquet area, and the first level of a restaurant. The third level is home, a pool and deck, the second level of
the restaurant, a courtyard, and poolside rooms. No changes in size for those entities were made in the adjustment, Balot said. Levels four and five consist only of guest rooms on the hotel’s north and south wings, all of which have balconies overlooking the pool. “This will keep the guests. noise, and towels draped outside, all inside the courtyard and away from the neighbors,” Balot said. But things got tight in keeping with that layout, hence the need to go up. “By stubbing up the hotel and
keeping with the courtyard design, it made more sense to now add a fourth level of rooms (above the parking garage) on each side to sustain the minimum 101 rooms required under special exception,” Balot wrote. “That is the additional height on the side buildings (rooms), not the lobby or restaurant. “Building that way, instead of trying to add rooms over the restaurant, will keep the construction costs down (per room) because all the mechanicals will be in line, running up and down, and we can use pre-cast concrete (most likely) to build the majority of the
rooms.” Balot said the new design will keep with his previous promise of the hotel having no more than 52 rooms per acre. Going forward, Balot will submit his final development conceptual plan to the county for preliminary approval and then hold a required public neighborhood workshop, versus the opposite approach, so he’s not again blindsided by snags at the county level. Furthermore, the delay allows Balot to wait and see if any legal rulings are made in the aftermath of two other hotels being recently approved by county commissioners where unlimited density was allowed, dropping the need to request a change in the county’s comprehensive plan -- something Balot, like the others, originally would have needed. If there is no change, all Balot would now need is a special exception to be granted to go above the current height limit of 35 feet. The other hotels were given that special exception, as well. “In light of what has transpired with the ‘unlimited density,’ approval of both special exceptions, and in discussions with the county, we felt it prudent to see what transpires in the next 30 days, as it relates to lawsuit(s) being filed in opposition,” Balot wrote. “At that time, we will circle back and decide if I can then bring forward my comp plan amendment or just special exception.” Balot purchased the property in March for $4.41 million.
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Melanie Dodge enjoys opening her Siesta Key Wine Bar doors for charitable events By Jane Bartnett “Friendships have grown here,” said Melanie Dodge, as she poured a glass of fine wine in her welcoming and beautifully appointed Siesta Key Wine Bar. “We have a good base of friends and we’re doing good things for the community in this special place.” Doing good things has become the heart of this intimate spot. Drawing a loyal following of local residents as well as many wineloving visitors, the establishment in Davidson Plaza offers fine wine, beers, good conversation and people who share a common interest in helping local organizations in need. “We’ve created a special place here on the Key where people can come together and make a serious difference in the lives of local charitable groups at the same time,” Dodge said. It all began in January 2020 when Dodge and her fiancé Tom Ilg, bought the business. It fit their backgrounds and common ground -- she previously had stints in real estate and the restaurant, while he is a veteran real-estate professional. They also share a passion for food, wine, beer, travel, and the water, It was an exciting time for the couple, which had previously lived and worked in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, before making the move to Siesta Key.
When the pandemic set in a few months after they took over, it was time to innovate. “We started doing Friday night wine tastings with our wine reps, via Zoom,” Dodge said. “We could only sell wine to go, so we sold bottles of wine and made wine baskets for sale.” After the months went by, it became clear that the pre-existing loyal customers would remain with the new owners through the worst of times. As a way to bring in new business while supporting a local charity in the couple’s new community, Dodge decided to start a series of small charitable events. An avid dog lover, she learned about the Vintage Paws Sanctuary, a non-profit south Sarasota County charity for old dogs in need of a home. “In April, 2020, we held a guest bartending evening for Vintage Paws and raised between $4,000 to $5,000 that went to help these wonderful animals,” Dodge said. More local charitable evenings followed. Wine and community became the couple’s mission, a way of giving back to their new home. “I find it so rewarding,” said Dodge as she sat before a wall of wines that she and Ilg have curated from around the world. “It’s not a matter of getting dressed up and being in the paper, it’s about making an impact so that everyone can be a part of it.
“It’s great to offer a place for people to come together and meet others who share their interest.” The wine bar flourished and the couple added new wines from Napa, Spain, Chile, and a Florida tropical offering from Murielle Winery to their collection. “I taste a lot of wine,” Dodge joked. Small private events were added to the wine bar’s calendar, along with additional evenings for local causes. This spring, Dodge’s friend and longtime Siesta Key resident Hope McCampbell-Wenk suggested that the two team up to host an evening to benefit the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. A friend of McCampbell-Wenk’s was battling the disease and she wanted to help. The event raised $13,000. “Hope will be there for me and vice-versa,” said Dodge. Said McCampbell-Wenk, in response, “We really enjoy working together and making an impact.” Added Dodge, “Our island community is very strong.” In April, during a charity evening to support Alzheimer’s research, regular customer Adam Ott agreed to shave off the beard that he had been growing for the past five years in exchange for a $1,000 donation.
Melanie Dodge’s doors are always open for those looking to hold a fundraiser. (photo by Jane Bartnett)
Continued on page 16
TOP 10 CLAYTON’S REASONS TO VISIT
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Trout Almondine, Macadamia Nut Encrusted Grouper, Cult favorites like Pizzas, Duck, Fish Tacos Exec Chef Mike Yoder, one of the best chefs in the world Our friendly staff will provide a most entertaining dining experience Clayton is a fun, spirited, community guy and lifelong resident Best Eatery in the country, says his mom “Kitten”
High School mentoring program teaching work ethic and responsibility
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Locals’ Gathering Spot
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Great Happy Hour from 4-6:30
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ECO friendly restaurant
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Proves you are not a member of the Chain Gang
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TURTLES
On Little Sarasota Bay
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Casual Waterfront Dining Fun, Fresh & Affordable
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Turtles All Day Menu APPETIZERS Bang Bang Shrimp … $9 Coconut Shrimp … $10 Calamari … $10
SALADS Turtles Salad … $17 Caesar Salad … $15 With grilled shrimp or chicken
SEAFOOD PLATTERS Fried Coconut Shrimp … $17 Large Gulf Shrimp … $16 Fish & Chips … $15
ENTREES
Coconut Mahi Mahi … $17 Sea Scallops … $22 6oz Filet Mignon … $18 Gulf of Mexico Grouper … $19 Salmon … $18 Filet Mignon & Stuffed Shrimp … $28 Potato Crusted Haddock … $14 Orange Pecan Chicken … $13 Turtles Fisherman Platter … $25 Baked Stuffed Shrimp … $19 Shrimp and Crab Au Gratin … $14
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Taste of Turtles … $23 Seared Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna, Grilled Chicken Breast Topped with Mango & Kiwi Salsa, Coconut Crusted Shrimp with Pineapple Dipping Sauce.
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Turtles Steak & Shrimp … $26 Grilled Filet Mignon, Shrimp in Scampi Sauce, Coconut Crusted Shrimp with Pineapple Dipping Sauce.
Loaded NY Strip … $27 Grilled 10oz NY Strip Topped with Grilled Shrimp in our Gourmet Cheese Sauce. Hawaiian Surf & Turf … $23 Grilled Filet Mignon and Seared Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna. Turtles Trio … $26 Grilled Filet Mignon, ½ Rack of BBQ Ribs, Coconut Crusted Shrimp with Pineapple Dipping Sauce. Taste Of South East Asia … $21 Grilled Chicken Breast Topped with Mango Kiwi Salsa, ½ Rack of BBQ Ribs, Teriyaki Shrimp. Surf & Turf … $22 Grilled Mahi Mahi Topped with Mango Kiwi Salsa and ½ Rack of BBQ Rib
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Seafood fest comes back ashore Food, music mean big catch for beach-goers, Dec. 3-5 By Jane Bartnett
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The fifth-annual Siesta Beach Seafood & Music Festival will return to the Siesta Beach Pavilion at noon on Friday, Dec. 3, with the gulf as its scenic backdrop. The threeday event will run through 6 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 5. Admission is free. Eleven popular musical groups have been lined up, and some 15 food vendors will be serving up delicious local seafood, prepared onsite. Meat and vegetable dishes will also be available, with delectable side dishes and desserts. Feeling thirsty? There will be both alcoholic and non-alcoholic and fruit drinks for sale. “This is a fantastic family-friendly event,” said event director Bill Kinney, of Paragon Festivals. “The musical lineup is incredible. We’re expecting an enormous turnout and I hope that all the local Siesta Key merchants will benefit from this start-of-the-season kickoff. Each day, a series of different musical groups will perform live. Just in time for holiday shopping, Kinney also reports that there will be a market place on site filled with fine arts, crafts and food items for sale. The music on Day begins at 4:30 p.m. 4:30 p.m. when the popular southwest Florida rock/blues group Kettle of Fish takes the stage. Selwyn Birchwood, the awardwinning blues guitarist from Tampa, follows at 6:30 p.m., and then at 8:30 p.m. Gas House Gorillas, a five-piece rock band, will have you dancing with their classic rock sounds until 10 p.m. On Saturday, the festival opens at 11 a.m. At 12:30 p.m. Prodigal Sons, a rock, blues, reggae and R&B band from Charlotte, North Carolina, will perform. Shaw Davis & The Black Ties take the stage at 2:30 p.m. The celebrated group from Pompano Beach will keep the blues-rock theme going strong. Come late afternoon, the air will be filled with the sounds of soulrock as Twinkle & Rock Soul Radio, which calls itself “a straight-up guitar-rock band,” begin to play at
A seafood boil featuring lobster and corn, plus plenty of crab legs, will keep guests well-fed at the upcoming Siesta Beach Seafood & Music Festival on Dec. 3 through 5. (photos courtesy of Paragon Festivals)
4:30 p.m. That evening, not long after the sun has set, festival-goers will ease into the early evening when at 6:30 p.m. the alternative folk-rock band Have Gun Will Travel, from Bradenton, takes the stage. At 8:30 p.m., the Damon Fowler Band of Tampa wraps up the night. Fowler has been described as “a hard-driving troubadour whose music is steeped with soul.” Hear Fowler sing the blues until 10 p.m. On Sunday, the Whole Band performs at 12:30 p.m. The popular Sarasota bluegrass rock group, that fans describe as “magical, amazing and fun,” is known for its three-part harmonies. This group has its roots in Americana, blues, rock, bluegrass, country and R&B. At 2:30 p.m., catch the Billy Rice
Band playing “songs that make you dance or make you listen and enjoy the pure pleasure of music,” according to the group’s website. A Sarasota legend, Rice has opened for the Charlie Daniels Band, the Marshall Tucker Band, Keith Urban, and other leading artists. Finally, as the festival comes to a close, dance the evening away from 4:30 to 6 p.m. with the 22N, a highenergy, central Florida-based dance party rock band, Although the event was sidelined in 2020 because of COVID-19 restrictions, Kinney expressed his enthusiasm and joy at being back. “It’s just great to return to the No. 1 beach, and so good to get back to more normal days,” he said. For more information, visit seafoodfestivals.com.
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FISH MARKET OPEN UNTIL 2PM ON CHRISTMAS EVE AND NEW YEAR’S EVE FOR SPECIAL ORDER PICK UP Please place your special orders as early as possible
Restaurant will be closed for dining Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.
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DECEMBER 2021
Siesta Sand
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‘Dr. Gary’ looks to give a boost to south bridge district By Phil Colpas With the County Commission granting two special exceptions for height and density, it looks like all systems go for the proposed seven-story, 120-room, mid-century modern, Sarasota School of Architecturedesigned hotel on Old Stickney Point Road, and a nearby five-story parking garage on Stickney Point Road. The developer of the project is Gary Kompothecras, who has called Sarasota home for 40 years. Better known as “Dr. Gary,” he is the founder of the 1-800-ASK-GARY legal service, and owner of the nearby Crescent Club, the Hibiscus Inn and Suites on Old Stickney Point Road and the Captiva Beach Resort on Siesta Key. He also pitched the idea and served as executive producer of MTV’s “reality series,” Siesta Key, and lives with his family in one of the island’s most storied mansions he had built near Point of Rocks Beach. “A lot of misinformation (about the hotel project) has been spread around,” Kompothecras told Siesta Sand via phone Nov. 15. “I could’ve put the worst bar in the world there (without having to apply for any special exceptions) and made a lot more money. But I didn’t want to do that to my town. My goal is to make a beautiful south bridge district.” For several years, Kompothecras served on the Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority, and got a good understanding of air traffic flow through Sarasota. The off-season months are when Europeans often prefer to come here, and there are now direct flights from Sarasota to London’s Heathrow Airport. “We have a shoulder season to get through in August, September and October,” he said. “That’s the purpose of this hotel. “If we can capitalize on this by providing excellent accommodations on Siesta Key, businesses will be able to have a slow month or two instead of five.” Bob Spencer, vice-chair, Sarasota-Manatee Airport Authority, said the airport has experienced phenomenal growth over the past year. “SRQ is arguably the fastest- growing airport in the world, with passenger seats up 162% over pre-pandemic levels.” It now has 11 airlines and 52 non-stop destinations. The airport is on track to fly more than 4 million passengers in and out of SRQ in 2022, he said. “While we understand that traffic can be a concern, this influx of visitors will likely be driving to the beach regardless of where the lodging is located,” Spenser told the County Commission Nov. 2. “You have a difficult job as the concerns of the residents must be weighed along with the needs of the greater community to handle the growth and demands that are inevitable, as the Sarasota-Bradenton area is no longer our little secret.” Kompothecras said he started the planning process for the proposed hotel five years ago in 2016, spending “a tremendous amount of money,” engaging in public
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hearings, and trying to address neighborhood concerns as best he could, resulting in several improvements. These included an increased setback variance and buffer zone around a standalone building, primary access of which will be from Old Stickney Point Road and not off of residential Peacock Road. Kompothecras Throughout the development process, proponents argued that a 120-room, luxury hotel would create less traffic than some other uses already approved for that “very underutilized property.” They also stated they believe that the hotel fits in nicely with the neighborhood’s existing structures, such as the Anchorage, at 97 feet in height, and Crystal Sands, at 113 feet. And while an architectural element on the proposed hotel building does reach a height of 83 feet, the bulk of the tiered building tops out at 73 feet. People at Marina Del Sol are complaining that their views will be destroyed, said Kompothecras, who describes it as “partially blocked. And when they built (Marina Del Sol in 2002), they blocked people’s view too,” he said. Other improvements were added to the plan, as well. “It’s an opportunity for better stormwater treatment, transportation, crosswalk, parking and places to stay,” said Charlie Bailey, attorney for the developer. In an effort to reduce the traffic problems on the key, Kompothecras started the Siesta Key Frog Hop, a free trolley service. He also plans to include 101 public parking spaces in the proposed hotel’s parking structure, which will help offset the effects of the hotel. “Car traffic is worse now than it will be when the hotel is there,” Kompothecras said. “Now, it’s all people driving to the beach. The hotel people won’t leave as often.” And the hotel will pay a lot more taxes than the much-maligned AirBnBs, he said. “Don’t blame the hotels. Siesta Key started as hotels and was bought out by condos.” At the public hearing Nov. 2, longtime Siesta Key resident Bob Waechter told county commissioners that there were plenty of people who supported the project, even though the opponents have received the lion’s share of press coverage, he said. “Most of us here agree on the same thing: We want the Siesta Key that we found when we came here, whether it’s the lady who moved here a year ago and lives in Marina Del Sol, or myself who moved here in 1977. The key has really, really changed. And it’s going to continue to change. The only thing we can hope to do is to maybe control and mold that change a little bit.” “If this hotel is not built, what else are you going Continued on page 39
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Another hotel approved that they supported development and would encourage a smaller, boutique-style hotel, but feared this project was too big and failed to ameliorate safety issues in a small, already over-trafficked area. Some made veiled – and not-so-veiled – threats of legal action should the project be allowed to move forward under its current plan. Because each of the two special exceptions were dealt with as separate issues requiring separate votes, Patricia Petroff of the Siesta Key Coalition argued that the speakers should have been allowed five minutes for each exception. “The public is getting 2.5 minutes each,” she said, “instead of the five minutes required by law.” Petroff said she felt that the current hotel plan was incompatible with the county’s Comprehensive Plan, incompatible with the neighborhood and in violation of numerous policies, including putting a seawall on Sabal Lake, which abuts the property and is classified as a protected wetland. She also disagreed with the county’s staff report about comparative property use and the extra traffic likely to be created. “This will bring new traffic to Siesta Key,” she said. “A convenience store is drive-by traffic.” Opponents of the project outlined some of their other concerns for the Commission. Robert Luckner is a member of the Siesta Key Association (SKA) and the Siesta Key Coalition (SKC), which was formed last year to combat projects it deemed rampant development. Luckner told the Board that the current hotel plan is inconsistent with 1989’s Siesta Key Overlay District (SKOD), which stated transient accommodations would be regulated as if they were residential, and capped rooms per acre on Siesta Key at 26. “That has been the understanding on Siesta Key for a long time, and I think you made a mistake,” he said. “The county comp plan can be changed, but it has to be by a supermajority.” Catherine Luckner, president of SKA and board member of SKC, urged the board
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to look at the possible impact of all of the proposed Siesta Key hotels together. “This started as looking at one hotel,” she said. “Now there are three more.” Amy Spiegel, SKC, told the commissioners the tiny beach access across Midnight Pass Road from the hotel would not be able to support the influx of hundreds more beachgoers. She argued that many will end up driving to the public beach and taking up parking space there, despite the free transportation offered by the Siesta Key Trolley and the Frog Hop, the latter of which was started by the developer of this project, Gary Kompothecras. Peacock Road resident Lisa Russo said that the applicant is proposing to fill in a portion of Sabal Lake, which is classified as protected wetlands. Lourdes Ramirez, former president of SKA, represented her company, Siesta Key Community Inc., as she detailed for the commission the specific sections of the Comp Plan that she said these special exceptions violate, including the definition of transient accommodations, and the residential density cap. “Adding density to Siesta will risk public safety,” she said. “Emergency vehicles will be delayed with all those cars on the road. Storm evacuation times will increase.” Nearby Marina Del Sol resident and lawyer Julie Wright Halbert, who described herself as a “friend of development,” said that for a special exception to be granted, it must not be adverse to the existing neighborhood, or detrimental to its health and safety. “These are your constituents… It is not safe,” she said. “The infrastructure is not there to support this density and scale. I urge you to table this or vote against it, because let me tell you something: Failure to do so could result in drawn-out litigation that could go on for years. “This is not about development, it’s about safety. We deserve the right to not be trapped in our homes.”
An artist’s rendering of the five-story parking garage that will be near the hotel. (submitted image)
Daniel DeLisi, land-use planner representing the SKC, told the Board that it is incumbent on the applicant to address criteria outlined in the comp plan, and the compatibility of the neighborhood, especially the single-family plat it will tower above. “A hotel and a resort is not a bad idea,” he said. “But at this location, it deserves more scrutiny.” Mark Spiegel is president of the SKC, which represents 71 neighborhood associations and 6,500 households on Siesta Key. “It’s no secret that the vast majority of residents and businesses oppose this application on Siesta Key,” he said. “Consequences, however, impact all residents of Sarasota County. They will be surprised to wake up and learn that the commercial land next to them countywide suddenly has no density restriction without any notice.” Karen Williams is the property manager for Marina Del Sol, and worked on the special exception process with the county for that property prior to its construction. The big difference, she said, was that Marina Del Sol made more of an effort to work with the neighborhood and get those residents behind the project. “The infrastructure at the intersection of Midnight Pass and Old Stickney Point roads needs to be taken care of before anyone else gets killed,” she said. “Adding more traffic to Old Stickney Point Road, a very narrow,
dead-end road, with no way out and no turnaround, is just irresponsible.” Added Mark Spiegel, “All major stakeholder organizations – the SKA, the Condo Council, the Chamber of Commerce, who supports business, and our Coalition have been asking – begging – all of you for months to pause. To be proactive, not reactive. To consider cumulative impacts, not piecemeal projects. To engage with the community, and to lead. If modifications to our comp plan and SKOD policies are needed to attract one or more boutique hotels, then do it the right way. Commissioner Detert was attempting to propose a motion at least week’s hearing (Oct. 27) to pause and take time to study potential consequences and consider community input like the Siesta Key Chamber plan. 7,000 households wish that the Commission would take up that motion. I’m begging you to do it again today, and this time do it first. “This is a development-sensitive, infrastructure-restricted barrier island, and the decisions you make have major precedent-setting consequences. “Shouldn’t our county representatives define and lead the process rather than a private owner with one acre of land? If you don’t deny or pause now, how are you going to stop the next four hotels? Now you’ve paved the way for seven- and eight-story hotels across the key.” According to Spiegel, the density increase is more than double the current density of downtown Sarasota’s commercial district. “Everyone wonders why Siesta Key wants to incorporate,” he told the County Commission. “It’s because they’re watching their county not proactively plan and not engage with the community. The reason this room isn’t full today is not because they don’t care; they feel disenfranchised, they feel unheard. They’re more interested in incorporation now, and how to fund a legal situation because you have not engaged with the community.”
Did you know that Siesta Key has a Gemstone? Looking into the water at Siesta Key Beach is an incredible, captivating feeling - hues of blue and green dancing in light waves on top of crystal white sand with sunlight reflecting on it. Undeniably, the “Siesta Key Watercolor GemstoneTM” has captured the colors of this experience. 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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Open Monday-Saturday 10am to 5pm Advertorial
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Register now for Andrew Monroe memorial run/walk The ninth-annual Andrew Monroe Memorial Scholarship 5K Run/Walk takes place Sunday, Jan. 9 on Siesta Beach. The event provides scholarships for further education to Riverview High School senior soccer players, JROTC cadets, and track athletes. If there are remaining funds, they will continue to grow the Sarasota Community Foundation scholarship fund in Andrew’s name. Visit andrewmonroe.com to register.
Please bring a can or two of food for donation to the Mayors Feed the Hungry organization. The event includes pre-race Starbucks coffee, plus a color guard and national anthem opening. Following the race, stop by the door-prize board to see if you won one of our roughly 160 items. Early packet pick-up is 4 to 7 p.m. Friday, Jan. 7, at New Balance, 315 Cattlemen Rd.; or 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 8, at New Balance’s Siesta location at 1872 Stickney Point Rd.
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“My beard was down to my waist,” said Ott with a laugh. “I’m growing it back again for the next charity.” More charitable evenings lie ahead for the Siesta Key Wine Bar. In March, Dodge is planning a special evening to raise funds in support of multiple sclerosis research. Her sister suffers from the disease. “This will be personal,” she said. The game plans vary on how to host an outing. “Some nights we hold a raffle, some nights it’s a wine tasting,” said McCampbell-Wenk. Added Dodge, “It’s not always a big event.” She noted that last month a small raffle raised $724 to support the Payton Wright Foundation, a local non-profit that offers financial support to families of children that are being treated for cancer of the brain and spinal cord. Big or small, her events have made a difference for many -- and that includes her. “Siesta Key is home and we’re here to stay,” Dodge said.
Left, above: A springtime fundraiser at the Siesta Key Wine Bar raised money for Leukemia &
Lymphoma Society.
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From left, making up Team Jeremy, are Tammy Karp, Jeremy Shelby, Hope McCampbell-Wenk, Alysha Shelby, and Ashyr Shelby. (submitted photo) Left, below: McCampbell and Melanie Dodge pose in front of the massive wine collection at the Village establishment. They enjoy teaming up for charitable events. (photo by Jane Bartnett)
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Refresh with Luxury
AFTER
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Sheriff’s Report Oct. 19 burglary Victim was a contractor doing a remodel on a residential villa. Upon returning to work at the location in the morning, complainant found the door to the villa to be slightly ajar and pry marks in the door at the door handle. Upon entering complainant found that complainant’s 5-gallon bucket filled with hand tools was missing. The premise was dusted for fingerprints and photographs taken of the pry marks on the door. The case remains open. Oct. 24 DUI Sheriff officers were driving southbound on Midnight Pass Road when defendant’s vehicle
pulled off Old Stickney Point Road in front of the Sheriff vehicle. Sheriff vehicle had to slow down to prevent a collision. Defendant’s vehicle proceeded to drive away in the bicycle lane and made a sharp turn into a parking lot, almost striking a curb. Upon questioning and observing defendant with respect to the amount of alcohol he had consumed, the defendant was charged with DUI. Oct. 26 theft Victim was at the bench sitting near the red lifeguard stand. Victim had a pair of shorts rolled up in a pocket to the beach chair. The shorts contained his cell phone, driver’s ID, global passport, and $700 cash in the pockets. Victim went swimming
for approximately 10 to 15 minutes and when victim returned he noticed that his shorts had been removed from the beach chair pocket and all of the items in his pockets were missing. Statements were taken from beach-goers sitting in the vicinity. The case remains open. Oct. 28 theft Victim was visiting Siesta Key with friends who had given victim approximately $2,000 in cash to pay for the accommodations. Victim went to a retail location and purchased some items and lost his wallet. Victim was able to track the location of his wallet to a car in a residential parking garage. The owner of the car, who worked as an attendant near the retail location,
indicated that an unknown male had given him the wallet but that it had contained no money in it. Surveillance footage is being sought.
Beach where they spent the night drinking. Victim fell asleep on the beach and when he awoke Deborah and his cell phone were gone.
Nov. 3 theft
Nov. 6 attempted burglary
A married couple visiting Siesta Key were sitting on the beach near Beach Road. They went for a short walk and when they returned to their beach chairs they discovered that their beach bag had been gone through and several items taken, including their phone, wallet and keys to their vehicle.
Victim’s vehicle was parked in a parking lot and victim reported that there had been an attempt to gain entry into his vehicle. It appeared that entry was attempted by insertion of an object between the door and the door frame. The attempt resulted in several scratches and dents to the vehicle’s door. The estimate of the damage was $500. The vehicle was to be dusted for fingerprints and the case remains open at this time.
Nov. 4 theft Victim stated that he met a woman named “Deborah” and asked her to join him on the beach. Deborah and victim went to Turtle
What are your financial resolutions for 2022? Sarasota Local Brings Experience & Trust to Siesta Key As you know, 2021 was full of challenges. We were still feeling the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic when supply chains shut down and inflation heated up. So, if you’re like many people, you might not be sorry to see the year come to a close. But now it’s time to look ahead to a brighter 2022. And on a personal level, you may want to set some New Year’s resolutions. You might resolve to improve your health and diet, and possibly learn some new skills, but why not make some financial resolutions, too? Here are a few ideas to consider: • Prepare for the unexpected. If you haven’t already created an emergency fund, now may be a good time to start. Ideally, you’d like to have three to six months worth of living expenses in this fund, with the money kept in a low-risk, liquid account. (If you’re retired, you may want your emergency fund to contain up to a year’s worth of living expenses.) Once you’ve got this fund established, you may be able
they started to contribute even more to their retirement savings during the pandemic, according to a study from Age Wave and Edward Jones. This year, if you can afford it, increase your contributions to your IRA and your 401(k) or other employersponsored retirement plan.
Joe St. Onge outside his office on Siesta Key.
to avoid dipping into long-term investments to pay for shortterm needs, such as costly home or auto repairs or large medical bills. • Boost your retirement savings. The pandemic caused many us to re-evaluate our ability to eventually enjoy the retirement lifestyles we’ve envisioned. In fact, 33% of those planning to retire soon said
• Reduce your debt load. The less debt you carry, the more money you’ll have available to support your lifestyle today and save and invest for tomorrow. So, this year, resolve to cut down on your existing debts and avoid taking on new ones whenever possible. You can motivate yourself by measuring your progress -- at the beginning of 2022, record your total debts and then compare this figure to your debt load at the start of 2023. If the numbers have dropped, you’ll know you were making the right moves. • Don’t overreact to the headlines. A lot can happen during a year. Consider inflation -- it shot up in 2021, but it may well subside in 2022. If you
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changed your investment strategy last year to accommodate the rise in inflation, would you then have to modify it again when prices fall? And inflation is just one event. What about changes in interest rates? How about new legislation coming out of Washington? And don’t forget extreme weather events, such as wildfires and floods. Any or all of these occurrences can affect the financial markets in the short term, but it just doesn’t make sense for you to keep changing the way you invest in response to the news of the day. Instead, stick with a strategy that’s appropriate for your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. You may need to adjust this strategy over time, in response to changes in your own life, but don’t let your decisions be dictated by external events. These aren’t the only financial resolutions you can make – but following them may help you develop positive habits that can help you face the future with confidence.
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.
Edward Jones. Member SIPC. Advertorial
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Awesome holiday gifts are right here on the Key Three local, go-to gift stores offer up some stellar suggestions By Emma Shaughnessy The holiday season is in full swing, which means it is the prime time to start shopping for gifts. One of the best parts of the holiday season is getting to spend time with loved ones. After a long, stressful year, gift giving is a special way to express gratitude and love for friends and family. A daunting task, many people find it difficult to determine the perfect gift to show how much someone is appreciated. Whether this means finding the right gift for a family member, or maybe a Secret Santa gift for a coworker, there are many local shops on Siesta Key that offer something for everyone. Let’s explore some, and take note of their suggestions. Gidget’s Coastal Provisions Located in the Village, it has gifts made by artists locally and across the United States at a wide price range. Pamela Sparkle, the general manager, noted the store’s most popular gifts this holiday season are its 3D lighted sea glass trees and flat shabby plank palm trees with colored lights by Salty Signs Designs. Marji Engle, the artist behind the pieces, employs women from all walks of life to help create the products. These gifts are very popular and support a passionate Florida artist who aims to encourage her employees to follow their dreams. Gidget’s also sells holiday decorations that embrace Florida’s
Above, then clockwise: 3D lighted sea glass trees are all the rage at Gidget’s; flat shabyy plank palm trres with colored lights are another beautiful Gidget’s offering; Florida Salt Scrub products pamper like none other and are available at Green Turtle; made of recycled water bottles, T-shirts are among the standout items at Sunshine & Sand Hidden Treasures. (submitted photos)
culture. The store has oyster trees and oyster wreaths for beach lovers, as well as a Christmas
version of its popular suncatcher ornament. For people looking to give a
more expensive gift, the store offers products by Gigi Moda and Hook and Tackle, as well as
Carmen Sol Bags. Items from these designers would make a great high-end Christmas gift. Continued on next page
Every Seat has a
Water View
Open Christmas Day Lunch and Dinner Served Daily
Waterfront Dining…at Dining…at its best! 1500 Stickney Point Road Sarasota, FL (Located at Channel Marker 62 at the Siesta Key South Bridge)
Private waterfront banquet room available for your holiday gatherings BoatyardWaterfrontGrill.com • 941-921-6200
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Continued from previous page
Visit Sparkle at the store for some unique Florida-inspired pieces and other niche products. Green Turtle Shell & Gift City It’s another local store with a variety of options, located in Southbridge Mall. One gift sold year-round that is especially popular during the holiday season is painted sand dollar ornaments. They come in many colors and designs such as starfish, manatees, and pelicans. These ornaments are perfect for people who love coastal life and the Florida sun. The store also carries products
by My Sweetest Honey, a local honey company based right here in Sarasota. Two popular items include a 1-pound baby bear and a lotion bar made with honey. These gifts are suitable for people who like to support local businesses and enjoy self-care. Another local product for people who prefer an extra kick in their food is Gator Sauce. This delicious hot sauce would make a fantastic stocking stuffer or small addition to any gift. The employees are very knowledgeable about the store’s products and are more than happy to help pick out
an appropriate present. Florida Salt Scrub products, made in Delray Beach, are also in demand and offered at the store. Sunshine & Sand Hidden Treasures Located in Crescent Plaza it’s owned, operated, and managed by Dawn Henson. It has many unique gift options for people of all ages. And the store carries products made by seven local artists based in Sarasota. Some of these items include paintings, salt and pepper shakers, cheese boards, and Tiger
Fire Sauce, a local hot sauce. Quintessential for any foodie, these products would be ideal for anyone planning to host holiday festivities. Two simple, yet popular, products that the store also sells are socks with humorous sayings and T-shirts made from recycled plastic bottles. Henson notes that the T-shirts are incredibly soft and are a great gift for any environmentalist. The store also sells Lizzy James jewelry, including a two-in-one necklace and bracelet that is suitable for anyone wanting to
spruce up their wardrobes. Instead of holiday shopping at large retailers and businesses, spread the love this holiday season by shopping at local businesses. Not only does shopping locally support other residents in the Sarasota area who own and operate these businesses, but it is also a great way to get to know members of the community. Rather than struggling to think of a gift to purchase for a loved one, visit these enchanting shops for unparalleled customer service and local finds suitable for people of all interests and ages.
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Landings Publix closes for major remodeling By Jane Bartnett
Attention Publix shoppers! The Publix grocery store in The Landings Shopping Center, 4840 S. Tamiami Tr., closed its doors Nov. 13 in order to undergo a large renovation that is expected to take the better part of a year, or more. “We’re hopeful for fourth quarter of 2022 or first quarter of 2023,” Brian West, Publix public affairs and community relations manager, said of a potential re-opening date. The current 63,000-square-foot grocery emporium is an anchor for the upscale shopping center, owned by Benderson Development, and it will undergo a dramatic transformation. When completed, the store itself will be smaller, at 48,000 square feet, will reflect the design of new Publix stores. A Publix liquor store will open next door, and a pharmacy will also be included in the new design. The Publix Landings store went through its last renovation in 2012 at a reported cost of $1.5 million. When Publix opened there in 2009, the shopping center was experiencing a challenging business climate as it tried to
Workers remove the storefront signage on Monday, Nov. 15, from the Publix at The Landings. The store closed Nov. 13 for a large remodel that could last upward of a year, or more. (photos by John Morton)
recover from the 2008 real estate crisis. The Publix store at The Landings has always been owned by the grocery chain and retains ownership of this property. In 2017, Benderson Development purchased the shopping center (built in 1988) with goal to make it a luxury shopping
destination. Within a short period of time, Benderson brought in many new stores and restaurants that took the place of tenants that had left behind vacant spaces. Now an upscale shopping and dining destination location with top national brands, in recent months a number of
new stores and restaurants have become neighbors to Publix, including the large EOS Fitness Center, Lily Cafe, and Tripletail Seafood & Spirits. Julie Fanning, director of marketing for Benderson, said nearly 20 new tenants have been added in four years.
Barber Scott Reich Formerly of the Village Barber
Gulf Gate Barbershop Making Gulf Gate look good since the ‘60’s
Bringing over 70 years of life lessons and local knowledge to your haircut (trust us, we know alllll about what you did last summer). It’s not just a haircut, it’s life. We know all about it. Let’s laugh, have a beer, and talk nonsense….that’s free. Haircut? That’s gonna cost you…$18, if we like you, $25 if you’re a P.I.T.A. “Best Local Barbers” 20 years in the running Kyle and Scott “to the second power”
Online Ordering for Take out and Delivery
6575 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231 941-809-9028 Walk-ins Welcome
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LIVE MUSIC, page 29
VILLAGE MAP, pages 22 -23
ACCOMMODATIONS, page 43
CRESCENT BEACH MAP, page 30 GULF GATE SHOPS, page 37
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Patriots Pier does the honor, every day T
By Mike Cosentino
here are five soldiers in the background for every soldier on the front lines. That’s right. From turning wrenches to cooking food to delivering supplies, and countless other tasks, military success begins and ends with teamwork. We’re proud here at Siesta Key’s Patriots Pier to honor each and every member of our armed forces for their part in protecting our country and our freedoms. Our Veterans Day salute to our heroes lacked the fanfare of the more elaborate ceremonies. There was no parade, no band, and no keynote speaker. But what we did have was a crowd of everyday patriotic Americans, just like you and me. As has become the nightly norm, our attendees included both young and old, residents and tourists and, of course, past and present servicemen and servicewomen. Together, we thanked our veterans for providing the blanket of freedom under which we peacefully sleep at night. We thanked them for sacrificing their personal freedoms to ensure the protection of our own. A neighbor of mine, Ray Paugh, spoke with infectious pride of his family’s service to our country. Ray, his father and uncles, his five
brothers, and his kids have all served in our armed forces. At 85, Ray still helps us fold the flag every night. Thank you, Ray, for your service. I spoke about another of Siesta’s gems, Dick Miles. He walks the beach every morning, keeping track of the endangered snowy plovers for the Florida Audubon Society. Dick served in the Army in Vietnam; his job was preparing fallen soldiers for their final trip
home. Like many, he humbly dismisses the significance of his service. Respectfully, Mr. Miles, I disagree with you. You don’t have to carry a gun to be a hero. In closing, I’d like to invite everyone to join us at Patriots Pier, 10 Beach Rd., where every day is Veterans Day. Rain or shine, we raise the flag to reveille at 8 a.m., and lower it to taps at sunset.
Churches have merry celebrations ready Church of the Palms will be hosting its traditional Christmas service on Siesta Beach, 948 Beach Rd., at 5 p.m. Dec. 23. The church calls the service casual and contemporary, and it’s held near the volleyball courts. If attending, you’re encouraged to bring a chair or blanket. You’ll be welcome to join in on Christmas carols and you’ll hear the presentation of the Christmas story as the sun sets above the Gulf of Mexico. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the churches located on the Key are hosting a variety of services. • Siesta Key Chapel Presbyterian Church, 4615 Gleason Ave., is having a family-themed service at 5:30 p.m. featuring a live Nativity scene. A cadlelight service is at 8 p.m.. • St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Rd., at 4 p.m. on Christmas Eve is having a family-oriented service featuring the Christmas story, and a 7:30 p.m. service emphasizing music, carols and hymns. Christmas morning, there’s a 10 a.m, traditional service. • St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church, 5394 Midnight Pass Rd., has two Christmas Eve services: a 4 p.m. Mass features the annual children’s Chrsitmas pageant, and at 6:30 p.m. a holiday prelude features a piano, violin and trumpet trio prior to 7 p.m. Mass.
Don’t Waste Your Island Time Crossing Bridges! We are conveniently located just a few steps from Crescent Beach and minutes away from anywhere on the Key.
• Full Service Grocery • Party Trays • Boar’s Head Meat & Cheese • Domestic & Micro Beers • Fabulous Deli Sandwiches Made to Order! • Largest Wine Selection on Siesta Key • Farm Fresh Produce • Beach Supplies • Butcher Shop • Take Out Meals
We Deliver to Siesta Key!
941-312-0472 fax: 941-312-9588
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1211 Old Stickney Point Rd., Siesta Key, FL 34242 (corner of Stickney Pt. and Midnight Pass Rd.)
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Island Chatter
Nominations sought for chamber awards
Each year, the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce recognizes two outstanding member businesses, one member business person, one community partner, one leadership and service individual or organization, one Shining Star, and one Volunteer of the Year. Chamber member businesses, customers and employees may submit nominations. Self-nominations are accepted and encouraged. Completed nominations must be received by Dec. 15.
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Visit siestakeychamber.com for a nomination form. Awards will be presented at the chamber’s annual Awards Dinner on Jan. 27 at TPC Prestancia.
Holiday concerts set for ODA students
Students from Siesta Key’s Out-of-Door Academy are participating in a pair of holiday concerts that are open to the public. On Dec. 9, they entertain the Oaks Club in Osprey with their annual show. Call (941) 966-2161 or (941) 4411870 to purchase tickets. Dec. 17 is the date for the Selby Library Holiday Concert in Sarasota. Visit scgovlibrary.librarymarket. com/events/holiday-music-around-world-concert.
Online presentation showcases ongoing Grand Canal project
The Siesta Key Association, which continues to spearhead a canal regeneration project, now has a PowerPoint presentation on its YouTube channel that summarizes the project and speaks of its future. As of early November, 11% of the 878 properties with docks along the 9-mile canal have had mini-reefs installed (99 homes have them, with some having more than one, totaling 132).
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Open Midnight Pass group now in donations mode, beginning with study
A volunteer group hoping to take strides toward the re-opening of Midnight Pass, which used to be a waterway separating Siesta and Casey keys, is now in donation mode. The pass was eventually filled in during the early ’80s, diminishing water flow between the Gulf of Mexico and the Intracoastal Waterway. Step one is to raise $25,000 for a study by a coastal engineer, organizers say. Visit openmidnightpass.org for more details. Donations are tax-deductible.
Sandy Claws Beach Run is Dec. 11
DECEMBER 2021
The Sandy Claws Beach Run will be held Dec. 11 at Siesta Beach. To register, visit tinyurl.com/43ja48ht. Participants will receive an event shirt and runner bag while supplies last. The event features a 1-mile Hot Cocoa Run at 8 a.m. and the 5K race at 8:20 a.m. Music, food and a raffle will highlight the event, along with a holiday-themed costume contest.
An early-packet-pickup party is set for 3 to 6 p.m. on Dec. 9 at New Balance Sarasota, 1872 Stickney Point Rd. For more information, call (941) 861-5000.
New code enforcement officer on board
Rick Russ is Sarasota County’s new code enforcement officer for the zone that covers Siesta Key. He previously held a similar position with the town of Longboat Key. Russ replaces Susan Stahley, who will continue her career in the same capacity in Venice. Stahley began working with Siesta Key in 2015. If an issue arises, Russ encourages residents to call his cell phone at (941) 264-4988.
Chamber holiday event is Dec. 2
The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce’s Holiday Reception is set for Dec. 2 at Marina Jack. Cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts will be served. Tickets are $65 each or $120 for two. A gift raffle will be held. RSVP is required. Visit siestakeychamber.com.
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WHAT BETTER WAY TO START YOUR DAY IN PARADISE!
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.
• Organic and Fair Trade Coffees & Teas • Cold Pressed Coffee • Organic Smoothies • Light Lunch (Sandwiches) • Breakfast Sandwiches, Bagels & Lox • Homemade Pastries
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Coffee Shop • Tea Room • 5138 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key Village
Live Music Every Day and Night
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
SIESTA KEY
SOUTH SIESTA
1250 Stickney Point Rd, Sarasota, FL 34242 NI CE ND O F VE IS LA
ST ARMANDS CIRCLE
325 John Ringling Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34236
ISLAND OF VENICE
300 W. Venice Ave, Venice, FL 34285
Anna Maria Island
107 Bridge Street, Bradenton Beach, FL. 34217
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
GAS STATION Circle K Store........................................Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS 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 Studio Yooga ................................... Map-B #51 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
DAIQUIRIDECK.COM
MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage...................Map-B #35 The Spa at Calle Minorga..................Map-E #74 Sassy ... the Little Day Spa.............Map-D #62
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
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
48 47 46
HAPPY HOUR 5-7 PM Daily
L HT
IG N 941.349.9822 IC S theblasecafe.com U M HAPPY E V I L HOUR G N 3.14 PI 2 - 7 pm Daily I R T U Awesome pizza, A F E wings & bartenders! 941.346.1188 siestapi.com & Martini Bar
Y
TWO GREAT ONE LOCATION! TWO GREATPLACES PLACES ONE LOCATION! 5263 SiestaKey Key 5263Ocean Ocean Blvd. Blvd. || Siesta
Hey Dude & Birkenstocks Back in Stock!
Granada Habana
Gizeh Pearl White
349-2822 MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store........................................Map-E #6 Morton’s Siesta Market................... Map-C #25
DRUGSTORE Davidson Drugs...............................Map-D #65
5250 Ocean Blvd, Sarasota, FL 34242
SAFELY SERVING INSIDE & OUTSIDE DINING IN THE HEART OF THE VILLAGE
lasé Ca
MAILING - SHIPPING US Post Office.................................... Map-D #65
COFFEE SHOPS Bean Coffeehouse............................Map-D #62 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company........ Map-B #31
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After nearly a month of red-tide presence, all 16 of Sarasota County’s beaches were cleared of their warning status Nov. 5, according to the Florida Department of Health. That includes Siesta Key’s Turtle Beach and Siesta Beach. Two rounds of testing that showed acceptable levels of bacteria began Nov. 1. Siesta Key’s beaches re-joined the list of areas where elevated levels of red tide were present on Oct. 8. Earlier, on July 13, Siesta Key was among the county beaches designated with red tide conditions, being first dropped from warning status on Sept. 9.
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Island Chatter
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Red-tide designation dropped from Siesta Key, rest of Sarasota County beaches
Big G’s Oyster Happy Hour from 3-6 Every day 1/2 Priced House Oysters
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RESTAURANTS / CAFÉS Another Broken Egg................ Map-C #54 & 55 Blasé Café..........................................Map-A #38 Bonjour French Cafe......................... Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano..................................Map-D #71 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar.............. Map-B #42-43 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar.................Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante...............Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill......... Map-B #33 Island House Bar & Grill................Map-D #69 Lobster Pot......................................... Map-C #23 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company........ Map-B #31 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub..................Map-E #2 PI Pizza & Craft Beer........................Map-A#37 Ripfire Pizza........................................Map-B #47 Siesta Key Oyster Bar...................... Map-B #45 IL PANCIFICO.................................Map-D #15 Subway Sandwiches..........................Map-B #30 Summer House.................................. Map-C #57 Sun Garden Café............................... Map-D #19 The Cottage........................................ Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill.......................... Map-C #59 The Seafood Joint.............................Map-D #15 The Star Thai Sushi.................. Map-D #17 & 18 Village Café.......................................Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY Sassy Hair Salon...............................Map-A #40 Sassy ... the Little Day Spa.............Map-D #62 Siesta Key Nails & Spa.....................Map-D #9 Shaman Sanctuary Salon.................... Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida.......................................... Map-C #29 Robin Hood Rentals........................ Map-B #34
Mayari Licorice
Arizona Habana
Arizona Tobacco Brown Bringing you quality and comfort for more than 40 years!
Birkenstock & More 5128 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Village
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• SEGWAY RENTALS • PADDLEBOARDS • SCOOTER CARS • GOLF CARTS • BIKES • SCOOTERS • BEACH GEAR 5255 Ocean Blvd • Siesta Key Village www.robinhoodrentals.net
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Siesta Sand
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Mind Body Soul: Whole Wellness Captain Curt’s By Dolores Day has everything “Great things are done by a series This trains the subconscious you need to of small things brought together.” mind to repeat the behavior. -- Vincent Van Gogh Your subconscious mind will feel Totally also approve this success and uccess in any area of our feel more confident. When we Refreshed! Slife, especially our health is feel more confident, we are 90%
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neither magical nor mysterious. Great health is the natural consequence of repeating the same good habits consistently. There is a litany of choices all day, every day, that we can participate in that will either improve our health, or deteriorate it. Put another way, in every moment of every day we are either choosing to positively or negatively impact our mind and bodies. It is easy to get overwhelmed looking at the big picture of where are health is today and all of the things we are doing or not doing. Typically, we are focusing on the negative. We lose sight of the fact that if we break it down to one new action step every month, within a one-year period we will have implemented 12 new things that absolutely will impact our overall health. Twelve small habit changes have the potential to make one large transformation in our health! If you are ready to pick up one small stone at a time to move the mountain as Confucius says, then try this powerful strategy in your life. First, define what great health means to you. In order to change anything, you must identify what that looks like for you. For me, health is simply a state of well-being where the mind, the physical body, and the emotional self feel balanced and are operating at their highest possible state. Second, take inventory of what you ARE doing every day to care for your whole self and acknowledge and celebrate those efforts. Most of us don’t take credit for all the self-care we are already engaging
in. Write down a list of 10 to 20 great habits you do have and affirm and approve yourself. Third, move forward by choosing just one new healthy habit of your choice to add consistently. I call it the power of plus-one! Let’s face it, we can all do one more of anything in our life. It’s the act of starting so small that you can achieve success. The power of plus-one is so basic that most overlook it. Yet, overtime it will make a drastic dent in our health for good! Some easy plus-one’s are to begin to carry a water bottle with us everywhere we go, cut back on caffeine, begin a journaling practice for emotional health, or start a daily gratitude practice. Brainstorm what you think is easily attainable for you and that feels good, because when you achieve that success this month and feel good, it makes it easier next month to apply the power of plusone again. Last of all, shoot low. That’s right, don’t ask too much of yourself. When we shoot low and make it simple, we actually accomplish the task which encourages us overtime to say, “Look we did it! That wasn’t so hard! Let’s do it again!”
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more likely to continue. We want our mind to think way more of this. Positive! And with more positive, confident thoughts and feelings, they will encourage us to take even more, one stone, or step at a time. My clients are often floored when I require so little of them by adding 10 minutes of daily exercise. They think, “Why bother?” But when they do the math, they realize that was 70 minutes they didn’t participate in last week or 280 minutes they didn’t bother with last month! You get the point. We live in a world of socially accepted over achieving, hustling, and working hard. But the truth is most truly successful happy people do not even identify with these words at all. No, they have learned by doing the small things in life that are simple and easy they feel good. And when the mind/body feels good, it repeats the behavior. When the mind/body feels bad, it resists, throws a tantrum or two and eventually willpower is overrun by our self-protective mechanisms so intelligently placed within us for survival. We must start small and make one decision. Nothing changes in life until we decide. Let us bring into focus a series of small positive steps to create a massive shift and improvement in our health over time. By focusing on what we can do, instead of what we can’t, we discover what we will do one step at a time! (Connect with De on Instagram @ de.day.love or at www.de-day.com. email info@de-day.com.)
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One year down, many to go
DECEMBER 2021
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Local dentist not only survives but thrives, despite pandemic By Jane Bartnett For Siesta Key dentist Dr. My-Huong Ta, looking ahead to celebrating the first year of business is an achievement of which she’s rather proud. So, she’d like to celebrate. On Dec. 10, Ta will host a festive reception at her office at 5136 Ocean Blvd. in Davidson Plaza. Between 3 and 6 p.m., food and champagne will be served while guests enjoy live light jazz. “I am very grateful this holiday season,” Ta said. Launching a new medical practice after relocating here from mid-town Manhattan in New York City, where she practiced for 25 years, was an event she planned for with great care. Yet, like so many other small business owners, building a dental practice in the
midst of a worldwide pandemic was an event for which she wasn’t prepared. “The practice grew,” Ta said, “primarily by word of mouth, one patient at a time. Now, a year later, here we are at Siesta Village Dentistry, seeing patients daily, as I knew was possible. We’ve become a thriving dental practice.” And she feels a kinship with other new arrivals to the area. “Like so many other people who are moving here or have moved her recently, my family and I knew that this was the right place for us. I can relate to my patients who have fallen in love with this area and want the best dental care for themselves and their family.” Siesta Dentistry focuses on dental care for adults and older
teens. Aware of Siesta Key’s popularity among short-term tourists and seasonal residents, Ta also saw the importance of offering emergency dental care. “We have so many patients who come in after losing a crown, chipping a tooth while playing Frisbee and all kinds of other issues that arise,” she said. “Accidents happen, and sometimes it means that there’s a sudden dental issue that needs immediate care. While people are away from home, and they may be here on vacation or for a few months, this is where they can turn for professional dental care. “And, like me, if they decide to move here full time, we’re here for them then, too.” Continued on page 34
Dr. My-Huong Ta consults with a patient in her office. On Dec. 10, Siesta Village Dentistry will celebrate its first year of business. (photo by Jane Bartnett)
Artwo Local rk by & Cel Artis ts ebriti es
2021 — “The Great Escape”
presents the 3rd Annual
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Thursday, January 27, 2022 5:30pm – 8:00pm MARA GALLERY — 1421 5th St., Sarasota, FL 34236
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Arts on the Horizon By Rodger Skidmore Shape-shifters of yesteryear
O
pera takes many forms. Because the French like ballet, around 1645 many Italian operas that were produced in France included a mini-ballet -if you want an audience to buy tickets, give them what they want. Soon, many operas featured a ballet between acts and the Paris Opera became famous for them. Thus, opera was transformed into a vehicle, not just for well-known singers, but for dancers as well. Operas were also known for a special plot device: one character pretending to be another. Perhaps a count, in the guise of a peasant, wooing a village girl. With the incorporation of such a traditional operatic story line, one could expand the ballet and drop the opera altogether -- thus Giselle, one of the Paris Opera’s most famous ballets, was brought to life in 1841. While much of the story has remained the same, the sets and choreography originally created for Carlotta Grisi have been transformed by Petipa (for Anna Pavlova), Diaghilev (for Nijinsky), besides many, many others, and in 1965 by Sir Peter Wright. Count Albrecht of Silesia, in his expensive peasant costume, takes advantage of an overweight (oops, sorry, this is ballet, not opera), but rather an overwrought village lass. Upon learning of this deception, she
Giselle hits the Van Wezel stage Dec. 17 amd 18. (photo courtesy of Sarasota Ballet)
kills herself. In the second act the spirit of Giselle is about to be transformed into a Wil-o’-theWisp -- one of the Wilis -- who lead men astray. In this case to cause them to dance themselves to death (it is a ballet after all). When Myrtha, the lead Wili, is about to do the boogaloo with Albrecht, Giselle intervenes, forgives and saves him, and finds everlasting peace for herself. One constant, amidst all these changes, is the music. Composed by Adolphe Adams, Giselle (one of his 14 ballets) is both delightful and dramatic. It is no wonder that so many talented artists have become involved in its various productions. Music by Adams is not on the Sarasota Orchestra’s concert list this year, but you can hear members of that orchestra perform his music while watching Giselle at the Van Wezel. The Sarasota Ballet first performed this ballet in 2009, and again in 2019 with Ricardo Graziano as Count Albrecht. Talking about six degrees of separation (we were?), Margaret Barbieri performed the role of Giselle for Sir Peter in 1968 while with the Royal Ballet. She subsequently did the staging for later productions (including the one you will be seeing on Dec. 17 or 18 here in Sarasota at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall) and then became the assistant director of the Sarasota Ballet in 2012. More info at sarasotaballet.org.
Time to get crazy
Flor de Toloache (or, here in Florida, the trumpet flower) can cause dizziness, heart palpitations, giddiness, hallucinations, or perhaps a prison sentence if you leave its juice in the refrigerator for a babysitter to give to your children after mistaking it for a colorful and nutritious drink. It is also the name of a three-person (or more) female Latin Grammy-winning mariachi ensemble from Mexico that is based, of course, in New York. They actually started as a trio under New York, singing in the New York subway in 2008. They’ve come a long way since playing both under Carnegie Hall and for its patrons. Why call themselves Flor de Toloache? Because of the driving force enlaced within their style of playing. Why, it’s probably wild enough to make you want to dance yourself to death à la style de Myrtha et les Wilis on Dec. 10 at the Historic Asolo on the grounds of the Ringling Museum. It is said Flor de Toloache appeals to those who like progressive and traditional mariachi music. Well, the Prints, Ceramics, and Glass from Japan exhibit at the Ringling Museum is billed as featuring modern and contemporary works. It is exciting when art forms are well represented by more than
Japanese prints, ceramics and glass art will be on display at Ringling Museum until the middle of January. (photos coutesy of Ringling Museum)
one style. It is not just that they create or play pieces from more than one time period, but importantly, that they integrate those styles so that we can see both transitional influences and great leaps. Ceramics have been around for thousands of years. When one thinks of Japanese ceramics, images of fine bowls may come to mind, but for the last 70 years things have been changing. Japanese ceramicists have gone beyond their Chinese and Korean influences into startling new designs. Glass is a younger art form in Japan and around the globe, but great changes in studio work have developed since the 1970s. Print making has also undergone stylistic changes, from geometric abstraction to abstract expressionism, and perhaps on to abstract abstractionalism. Many of the pieces in this exhibit have been loaned from private collections; a rare chance to see them (until mid-January). When thinking of art pieces made with hard lacquer (not hard liquor), again, finely crafted bowls may come to mind. Certainly not lacquer and mother-of-pearl on an automobile hood. Again, an art form moving forward from its early beginnings to new techniques, facilitated by crossintegration of style, technology, and design. In this case, the exhibition Hard Bodies: Contemporary Japanese Lacquer Sculpture takes the traditional works -- sap from the lacquer tree (the original gorilla glue?), coated onto bamboo, ceramics, and textiles, and inlaid with mother-or-pearl, gold, and silver into new large-scale sculptures. Also until midJanuary. All info at Ringling.org.
artists are going to swing as they dance to the music of Duke Ellington at the Cook Theatre at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts. The Shane Chalke B.E. Jazz group (B.E. equals Banner Elk, North Carolina) will be interpreting the Duke’s music and the SCD will be dancing to the choreography of Leymis Bolaños Wilmott. These smooth moves have been created specifically for this series. Performances will be presented both live at the Cook Theatre and streamed virtually into your home. Additionally, as part of SCD’s free InPerson Performance Series, there will be live and streaming performances by Stephanie Bastos on Dec. 10 and 11 at the SCD Dance Studio on Boulevard of the Arts. This autobiographical dance presentation is powerful and illustrates the strength and resilience which can carry one forward after overwhelming adversity. Info for all SCD performances at sarasotacontemporarydance.org
Sit back and relax
If you like to leave the dancing to others and watch them dance until they drop, December is the month for you as Sarasota Contemporary Dance has some special dance treats to offer. Louis Armstrong wrote the words, and Duke Ellington the music, to “It Don’t Mean a Thing If It Ain’t Got That Swing,” so on Dec. 2 to 5 the Sarasota Contemporary Dance
Duke Ellington’s music will have head over heels for some remarkable dancers at the Cook Theatre, Dec. 2-5. (photo by Sorcha Augustine, courtesy of Sarasota Contemporary Dance)
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Spa Experience Siesta Key
Newly Expanded Location and Services Welcome back all our seasonal residents, tourists and locals Having worked in the massage and beauty industries for almost 30 years on Siesta Key, owner Connie Lewis has realized her dream to be back on Siesta Key with a spacious new location, a larger multi-talented staff and the capability to serve eight guests at a time. We are newly relocated by the public beach at 5700 Midnight Pass Road, upstairs in Suite 4B., right next door to the new fire station and just steps from the Siesta Key public beach. Our beautiful and tranquil new spa is nestled upstairs with plenty of space for you and your loved ones to enjoy your “Spa Day”. The beautiful group room is perfect for bridal parties, reunions and anniversaries. Or, if you just want to enjoy your massage with friends. The new service menu includes our classic therapeutic and relaxation massages (we offer 30, 60, 90 and 120 minutes of bliss). All of our massage sessions come with hot towels and organic aromatherapy to help soothe mind, body and spirit. We invite you to try our heavenly embellishments including CBD, Hot Stones and Full Body Aromatherapy Salt Glow. In addition to massage therapy, we offer facials, spa packages and Acupuncture. One of our most popular Spa Packages is the Siesta Sun ‘n Smoother. The Sun ‘n Smoother includes a full body hot stone massage followed by a body exfoliation and moisturizing treatment. You will feel relaxed, pampered and beach body ready! Other treatments exclusive to Siesta Key are the best in Anti-Aging Facials, performed by Connie. She has been offering her Microcurrent Facial for
many years and has had so many happy clients leave younger looking, refreshed and acne free. For a consultation for this treatment, please call for further information and prices. Other facial offerings include Connie’s Signature Treatment which includes a full body massage and a custom organic facial with Pevonia Botanica products which are available to take home after your service. Additionally, our Acupuncturist Marika Doviak is excited to offer our clients micro needling, a specialized device that uses tiny medical grade needles that stimulate collagen production unveiling a healthy glow that reduces the appearance of wrinkles, acne scarring and sun damage. Marika includes Chinese herbs that treat conditions such as dark under eye circles and dry or oily skin types. Punctures from the micro needling also act as channels for enhanced delivery of topical skin care treatments such as specialty serums and moisturizers. Please call to arrange your complimentary consultation. Spa Experience established in 1994 is going strong and we are looking forward to having you as our guests and help you unwind, recharge and take some “ME” time during your time on Siesta Key. Please call (941-3507495) or email (siestakeylmt@gmail.com) to schedule your next “special occasion” or for more information on custom service packages. Connie Lewis LMT/Aesthetician | Spa Experience Siesta Key www.SpaExperienceSiestaKey.com
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This monochrome shorebird, clothed in striking black and white plumage, combines haute couture and foraging in the low tide on Turtle Beach. A bold checkerboard graphic splashed across its wings and a stylish white cap cascading from brow to shoulder complete the plover’s breeding plumage ensemble. During the rest of the year, the plover’s understated non-breeding attire subtly blends into the beach with dull, earthy gray tones. The black-bellied plover’s stocky build and hardy constitution enable it to migrate thousands of miles to summer breeding grounds in the Arctic tundra. In the fall, it migrates
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across North America back to Siesta Key like so many other snow birds. The plover would make a formidable opponent in the imaginary iron-bird triathlon consisting of running, swimming, and flying. This feathered triathlete runs tirelessly (never walking) while hunting for food, is a capable swimmer in open water, and owns the title of the fastest flying shorebird— approaching speeds of 60 mph. Not bad for a stylish bird weighing 5 to 7 ounces and measuring 10 to 12 inches from tip to tail! Jan Baumgartner’s handmade notecards are available at BLVD Beachwear, 5239 Ocean Blvd., and Shelly’s Gift and Christmas Boutique, 4420 S. Tamiami Tr.
Blooming this month: Firespike Open for dinner from 4pm - 9pm 3900 Clark Rd, Sarasota, FL 34233 (941) 952-3186 www.chiantisarasota.com
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Known botanically as Odontonema cuspidatum, firespike grows 4 to 6 feet tall and produces clusters of 3-inch-long, tubular red flowers. It is a small shrub in south Florida and a clumping,
herbaceous perennial in north and central Florida. Firespike is currently in bloom at the Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Boulevard of the Arts.
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DECEMBER 2021
Getting Your Phil
27th State Media LLC
29
By Phil Colpas
Musings of a journeyman
T
his is somewhat of a homecoming for me. With this column for Siesta Sand, I am returning to my roots. Since I was a child, I always loved small town community newspapers. I grew up on Siesta Key, and started working at the Pelican Press just a year out of “J-school,” the University of Florida’s College of Journalism and Communications. For those who weren’t here or don’t remember, The Pelican Press was Siesta Key’s premiere weekly community newspaper for 40 years. I was there for 10 of them. Starting as a cub reporter, I worked my way up to columnist and associate editor. Among many other things, I took care of the “B” section, the arts and entertainment stuff, working with writers and columnists, editing content and
laying out the pages. I also wrote two columns of my own: “Island Beat,” which is exactly what it sounds like – happenings and business coverage on Siesta Key; and “In the Groove,” a music column usually featuring local acts. I got to work with some true luminaries in the field. Editor Anne Johnson, who taught me the art of the light red pen, allowing the writer to maintain his or her own voice; former Sarasota mayor and ace county reporter Jack Gurney, who showed me how to follow the money; and my friend, the late wordsmith and fearless city reporter Bob Ardren. I tried for years – unsuccessfully – to convince Bob he should write his memoirs. I didn’t realize how good of a group it was until I left the Pelican Press in 2007 for what I thought would be bigger and better things. It was neither. Just different. I’m happy to be back on the key working with Siesta Sand, which is admirably filling the small-town
community newspaper void the Pelican left behind when it was purchased by the Observer Group a few years after I left. You really can’t go home again With the exception of college, I have lived in Sarasota since 1980, when I moved here as a young boy with my folks. Already a creature of the night, Florida’s impressive and often oppressive heat and humidity served to exacerbate my nocturnal condition. I used to walk to the beach in the evenings, enjoying the post-dusk relative coolness; on a good night, I’d have friends and a guitar with me. From middle school until leaving for college, I grew up in a small duplex on Midnight Pass Road, just a couple blocks away from Point of Rocks Beach. Both of my parents were teachers. But back then, you could live on Siesta Key on a teacher’s salary. Indeed, Siesta Key was much
different 40 years ago. A paradigm shift Back then, the island would turn into a ghost town the day after Easter, when, like clockwork, the bulk of tourists would leave. Delineations between the season and off-season are much softer today. It’s pretty much always crowded. But back then … I have fond memories of riding my bike to Turtle Beach with my childhood friend Bill Short, and lying down in the middle of Midnight Pass Road. Why? Because we could. It felt like the island was all ours. Now, we’re dealing with more people with more money moving here every year. Although there’s nothing inherently wrong with money (aside from the biblical stance that it’s the “root of all evil”), there is something very wrong with the growing level of disparity between the haves and the havenots. With the influx, the number of people earning six-figure incomes in Sarasota nearly doubled
from 2015-2020 and, as prices rise, the chasm between rich and poor continues to widen, along with a serious lack of affordable housing. Often, money seems like our only measurement of worth. It strikes me that it doesn’t have to be this way. Although it may take a sea change in perspective. The longer I’m around, the more I realize that, although money makes many things in life much easier, the only true currency we share as human beings is time. So, I try to take mine; I take a step back, a deep breath. I try not to take things too seriously. I try to make people laugh. And I think how much better the world would be if we could all just discard this tribal mentality that seems to now hold us firmly in its grasp. If we could replace the “you’re dead to me” if you are different, if you don’t grok my way of thinking with something a little easier on our souls. Something more like kindness.
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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
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Siesta Key’s Most Friendly & Unique Shopping Spot! SOUTHBRIDGE MALL
CRESCENT BEACH
T
SIESTA KEY
Siesta Key’s Largest Seashell & Coral Selection!
GIFTS & SOUVENIRS BEACH FASHIONS BEACH SUPPLIES BEACH COVER-UPS LADIES & JUNIORS FASHIONS SUPER MEN'S LINE In South Bridge Mall
6525 Midnight Pass Road
MAP B-3#14
349-4751
green TURTLE COUPON
FREE! FREE! FREE! A Free Tropical Gif t! 59￠ Just For Stopping In
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Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.
MAP A-5 #12
Coconuts Fashion MAP 1215 Old Stickney Point Rd. B-3 #1&8
Crescent Beach Grocery 1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd.
MAP B-3 #1
Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.
Toasted Mango Cafe 6621 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-3 #17
Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-3 #14
Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.
MAP A-3 #4
Davidson Drugs 6595 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-3 #14
MAP C-4 #17
MAP C-3 #14
www.siestasand.us
941.312.0665
Siesta Snapshots
DECEMBER 2021
27th State Media LLC
31
Photos by Trebor Britt
“Number Crunchers” -- Friends Jen Rightnour and Lacy See of Lancaster, Pennsylvania chill out on Siesta Beach. Lacy has visited here once or twice a year since she was in first grade and commented, “I love the white sand and warm water.” Both are accountants for their respective family businesses.
“Siesta Friends” -- Friends and first-timers Celeste Araujo, 7, and Amaranta Pirela, 8, of Miami enjoy the powdery white sand and warm, calm waters of Siesta Beach. They’re both very involved in dance and gymnastics.
“Stuck on Siesta” -- Lupe, 4, is overjoyed to be playing Velcro catch with her dad along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline during their vacation here on Siesta Key. Lupe said she loves the shallow, calm water. The family recently moved from Miami to Georgia.
“Ready, Set ...“ -- Sarasota High School graduate Elizabeth House sets up her partner on one of the many ready-to-play beach volleyball courts on Siesta Beach. House has been a bartender and food runner at one of Sarasota’s popular Daiquiri Deck restaurants for the last four years.
“Siesta Bonding” -- Anca Iernea and daughter Lauren of Detroit celebrate her 16th birthday. She is a home-schooled junior hoping to go into dentistry. Siesta is Anca’s favorite beach and they’ve been coming here every year since Lauren was born.
“Stroll on Siesta” -- Lauren Greco of New Jersey enjoys the first stroll with her son Dominick, 2, in the crystal waters at Patriot’s Point. Dominick’s expression says it all. Lauren is executive vice president of video investments at a New York media agency.
“Siesta Catch” -- David Garver of Ukraine displays some unique soccer moves. After bouncing the ball from his foot to his knee and off the top of his head, he caught the ball between the back of his calf and thigh. Garver was adopted by an American family from Birmingham, Alabama when he was 12 years old. His brother Kevin is the wide receivers coach for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
“Seats on Siesta” -- Craig Nuncio of Sarasota is pleased to be serving Siesta beach-goers with beach chairs, umbrellas and other items through a new vending company, Boucher Brothers of Miami. Nuncio left Chicago to move here permanently in April. He’s been visiting Siesta Key since he was 7 years old and after his kids finished college decided to move here.
“Let’s Dig it” -- Sculptors get going on their sand creations a few days before the start of the annual Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival.
“Siesta Tandem” -- Larry and Cindy Baker of Centerville, Virginia enjoy their well-traveled tandem bike, pedaling their way along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline on Siesta Key. Cindy excitedly shared that they’ve even seen bear while biking in Asheville, North Carolina and Gatlinburg, Tennessee. Larry is a retired banker and, said Cindy, “I manage the retired banker.”
32
Siesta Sand
DECEMBER 2021
941.312.0665
Make it the Happiest of Holidays with Presents Your Pups Will Love
Paw Pals
Kyle Baker, Senior Pet Food Nutritionist at DOGPerfect
Sure, we know you show your pup the love year-round – but it’s the holidays, and a great opportunity to indulge them even more. After all, they’re your favorite member of the family, right? (Yes, even more than Uncle Don, let’s be honest.) This holiday season, we’re here to save you the search with presents your pets will love. Read on, and find something special! A Little Canine Calm If your furry friend is having a hard time sleeping or dealing with a transition like a recent move or new addition to the family, Snuggle Puppy can help take the edge off. A durable plush toy with a real-feel heartbeat and heat pack, Snuggle Puppy helps dogs rest easy by simulating the warmth and presence of their mother and littermates. Terrific for puppies and an ideal tool for crate training, it’s also great for older dogs that experience anxiety due to noise and other factors. Slow Down Dinner Time Does your dog treat meals like a race? Slow down your speed eater with a Snuffle Mat. Excellent for occupying pups that have energy to spare, Snuffle Mats can encourage your dog’s natural foraging instinct, engage their sense of smell, and relieve boredom. Simply hide treats or food in the mat’s ribbons and let your dog explore to make mealtime an adventure. Something to Chew On If your dog loves a good chew to pass the time, we’ve got a gift for that too. Featuring super strong nylon and real flavors like bacon, chicken, peanut butter, and maple wood, Benebone durable chew toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes to accommodate all kinds of canines. A Toy for the Toughest Pups For dogs that really get into playtime, we suggest KONG’s Wubba Ballistic Friends. Designed for both indoor and outdoor use, these cute interactive squeak and shake toys are covered with durable, reinforced nylon for added toughness. Plus, their floppy tails make them easy to pick up and throw for a great game of fetch. Deliver Sweet Dreams Remember the last time you bought yourself a new mattress? Great decision,
www.siestasand.us
Meet Ida
right? Well, maybe this holiday season is the right time to upgrade your dog’s bed. Available in a variety of sizes and designs, there’s a comfortable, cozy dog bed for any style or budget. Take the comfort even further with a new dog blanket. In addition to plush toys, Snuggle Puppy also makes soft, comfortable blankets, and Tall Tails’ beautiful, durable, and washable fleece options are perfect for cuddling. A Few Stocking Stuffers What’s holiday gift giving without the allimportant stocking stuffers? • Highlight your holidays with little surprises like Bounder’s natural rubber balls. Durable and delicious with space for secret treats, Bounder’s balls bounce unpredictably to bust boredom and keep your dog guessing. • Great for playing fetch or a good chew, Snugarooz Fling ‘N Fun toys come in large or small so dogs of any size or breed can get in on the fun. • And finally, no stocking is complete without a tasty treat. We recommend nutrient-rich snacks from Remy’s K9 Kitchen for raw, freeze-dried treats your dogs will love. Rarely naughty, and nearly always nice, your pups deserve a little extra during the holidays. We hope our shopping suggestions gave you a few ideas. If you’re still undecided, we recommend taking your dog on the next trip to your local independent pet store. We’re certain they’ll help you narrow it down with a few gift ideas of their own.
Ida, whose new owner Mike was told she’s a “beagle retriever,” arrived in Sarasota as a rescue dog two months ago after a daunting experience in Louisiana. Named after this summer’s Category 4 hurricane, she was abandoned during the storm and suffered not only a leg injury but was inflicted with heartworm -- likely the result of surviving by drinking standing water and eating trash. Mike, who works as a beach attendant on Siesta Beach, is happy to report she has gone from 37 pounds to 52, and that she is settling into a dog’s normal life. (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.
GRAND OPENING!
Big Water Deli
SPECIALIZING IN CORNED BEEF, PASTRAMI, PORK, AND ROAST BEEF. ALL IN-HOUSE MADE.
Happy s! Holiday
Hours 11am–4pm • Closed Sundays 6641 Midnight Pass Rd Crescent Plaza • Siesta Key
941-554-8101 bigwaterfishmarket.com
941.263.2014 5709 Beneva Road Sarasota, FL
Adult Games of Skill Bridge & Marjane Game Clubs Forming Meet New Friends Fun Things to Do Complimentary Refreshments & Food Casual Atmosphere & Super Staff Covid Compliant & Temperature Checks Open 7 Days a Week — 10am-10pm Bring this ad in for a free gift: SS
www.siestasand.us
941.312.0665
DECEMBER 2021
e BIG v a S
27th State Media LLC
!
The Best Holiday Gifts for Your Pet!
Limit one per customer. Cannot be combined with other offers. Excludes services, gift cards, and memberships. Coupon expires 12/31/2021.
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Donate today at wishlist.dogperfect.com
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33
34
DECEMBER 2021
Siesta Sand
Dentist celebrates The prime mission of the practice, Ta notes, is to assure that people have a healthy mouth and functional bite. Achieving that goal involves general dentistry, routine care and, in some cases for people that have neglected their teeth and gums for years, full mouth
941.312.0665
www.siestasand.us
Continued from page 25
rehabilitation. Since opening in December of last year, Dr. Ta has added new state-of-the art equipment to the practice, including the Picasso Laser used in promoting periodontal health. “The laser is very good at killing periodontal bacteria,” she
explains. “It’s very healing for the gums and helps areas with deep pockets.” Another procedure that she has feels strongly about is the use of “bio-simulation.” Stimulating the gums, she explained, improves the cleaning process. It is also useful in healing canker sores and other sores of the mouth. “We want our patients to be aware of the importance of dental health. Bacteria can be transmitted to the heart,” Ta said. “Dental health can have a great effect on a person’s overall health and wellbeing.” Her bright and welcoming compact office, decorated with art that celebrates Siesta Key, holds
three examination rooms. In each one, the chair is equipped with a massage function, and a largescreen TV. For X-Rays, Cone Beam CT-Dental Imaging allows Ta to see, in a single scan, a threedimensional image of a patient’s teeth, soft tissues, nerve pathways and bone. For plaque removal, she uses the Sirona Cavitron Ultrasonic Scaling System, instead of traditional hand scaling. Ta has also brought periodontist Dr. Reihaneh Mauer into the practice. She specializes in full mouth reconstruction, extractions, implants and placement of implants as well as aesthetic dental work.
Dr. Reihaneh Mauer (left) and Dr. MyHuong Ta review a patient’s dental records. (photo by Jane Bartnett)
Fatima Maleki Hair Stylist & Facial Threading Expert
First time customers receive
10% off!
941-685-1955
mahin_mlk@yahoo.com Eco Hair Design 1902 Stickney Point Sarasota, FL 34231
Open Daily 7am-9pm
Breakfast served all day, every day!
*7 AM - 12 PM on holidays
Sarasota’s Family Diner since 1972!
Open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day with a Special Holiday Menu.
Join Us for the holidays!
Special holiday menu Open Christmas Eve • Christmas Day New Year's Eve • New Year's Day 7 AM - 7 PM on holidays
6721 S. Tamiami Trl • Sarasota 941.924.1770 • DutchValleyRestaurant.net
Call Now to Reserve Your Christmas or New Year’s Eve Dinner: 941.349.2800
Christmas Hours: 12PM – 8PM www.claytonssiestagrille.com 941.349.2800 • 1256 Old Stickney Point Road, Sarasota Contact Clayton Thompson for Catering: 941.349.2800
www.siestasand.us
941.312.0665
DECEMBER 2021
Notes from the Island Fishmonger
Capt. Dawson Day’s Fishing Forecast Catch Sarasota Fishing Charters (941) 586-0204
H
Shelbie Lee with a large tripletail she caught off Siesta Key, using a live pilchard as bait. (submitted photo)
T
he fall weather is in full effect and with it brings lots of cold fronts, so always pay attention to the weather and be careful on choosing your fishing days. Even on days after a front the water can be choppy and dirty, making for difficult fishing conditions. When the weather does let up and you can get out on the water, the fish are hungry. It is stone crab season here in Sarasota, which means tripletail. They are phenomenal table fair and a blast to catch. When looking for tripletail we like to head offshore of Siesta Key beach a few miles and start heading north or south along a line of crab traps, visually searching for the fish sitting right under the buoy. When you spot one it is best to get on the upwind side of the trap and cast a variety of baits to them. They will eat an assortment of different baits including pilchards, live shrimp, and artificial baits. Sometimes you will have to throw a couple times to them and hit that perfect cast for the bite, as they can be picky at times. A 1/0 or 2/0 circle hook paired with a 15- to 25-pound fluorocarbon leader, depending on water clarity, is your best bet. Tripletail bag limit is two per person with a minimum size limit of 18 inches. Remember you don’t always have to keep your limit. If you are keeping some, make sure to have a good cooler full of ice to keep them fresh. Along with the tripletail, the gag grouper will start to get very fired up with the drop in water temperature. Gag groupers can be found on an assortment of different types of bottoms, like artificial reefs and hard bottom with good structure and or a ledge. Gag groupers will prefer a live bait over a dead bait most of the time so make sure to have a live well full of baits including pinfish, pigfish, blue runners, and pilchards. When targeting the gag grouper make sure to have heavy tackle as these fish don’t play around when they eat a bait. A strong owner circle hook paired with a 60- to 80-pound fluorocarbon leader with a 2- to 4-ounce weight will get the job done. Gag groupers and also be targeted using large-lipped plugs trolling around the structure where you are targeting them, and be sure to match your plug with the water depth as you want the lure to be all the way at the bottom where the fish live. When cruising for tripletail offshore, always keep an eye out for large schools of bonita crashing baits on the surface. Bonita will eat almost anything you can throw to them and they make for a very fun fight on light tackle. There is no food quality to these fish, but they do make for a great offshore bait if you can keep a few and throw them in the freezer for your next offshore fishing trip. Siesta’s Premier Fishing Charter Operation!
CatchSarasota.com
941-586-0204
Kid Catch of the Month!
Capt. Dawson Day and the Zenkewicz kids celebrate the catchiing of a tripletail in the Gulf of Mexico, near the Siesta Key shoreline. (submitted photo)
Florida Fish of Siesta Key
Red Snapper
Listen, one and all, to the story of the Feast of the Seven Fishes am is the usual highlight for Christmas, but more and more families these days are making seafood a major part of their holiday menu. As a kid I grew up with oyster stew and jumbo shrimp cocktail on Christmas and Alaskan king crabs for New Year’s. We all have our own holiday traditions. Some like their deviled eggs. Some like their green bean casserole but me … I’m a seafood guy. For the last several years I’ve been enjoying the Feast of the Seven Fishes on Dec. 24. What is this, you ask? Well, let me tell you. It’s an Italian/American Christmas Eve tradition for many. The origin of the feast can be traced back to both northern and southern Italy. Those areas are surrounded by beautiful coastlines, so seafood has been a large part of the locals’ diet for generation. A meatless meal is common on Christmas Eve around Italy. I researched the origin and found that if you ask seven different Italian/ American families, you will probably get seven different answers as to why the number seven was attached to the feast. Most probably, the Feast of Seven Fishes has religious ties but who really knows. No matter if you choose to adhere to the seven fishes -- which is clams, fried smelts, baccala (aka salted cod), scungilli (aka conch), mussels, calamari and lobster -- or not and instead keep it simple with two or three seafood dishes, pasta is usually a main course while other seafoods are just as delicious and enjoyed on their own. A lot of folks just make a stew or a boil with seven different seafood items in a pot and call it day. All of the previously mentioned items are available at Big Water Fish Market by preordering these specialty items ahead of time. My American/Italian/Irish menu usually consists of anchovy Caesar salad, grilled oysters, octopus salad, clams casino, steamed mussels and a fra diavolo -- which is a pasta dish that consists of a spicy tomato sauce with shrimp, scallops and lobster. Winner, winner, seafood dinner. December seafood is abundant and it’s the peak of the year for fishermen as the change in the weather brings us some delicious and healthy diet options. Stone crabs are in season and oysters are salty, juicy and delicious this time of year. There’s a bountiful number of fish such as cobia, pompano and tripletail
swimming in Sarasota Bay as we speak. There is also plenty of offshore action yielding lots of mahi, hogfish, snappers and groupers, now that season has opened back up. Imported live lobster and PEI mussels are back as the Canadian border has finally re-opened with plenty of halibut, cod and scallops being imported in from the Boston seafood docks. Whatever your seafood needs may be, you can find it at Big Water Fish Market and if we don’t have it in stock, we normally can get it in within 24 hours. Just ask! Here is a fra diavolo recipe I use with scallops, shrimp, and lobster -- but you can add as few or as many items as you’d like. • 1 pound medium shrimp peeled and deveined, 1 pound scallops & 1 pound of lobster • 1 teaspoon fine sea salt or 2 teaspoons kosher salt • 1 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes • 4 tablespoons olive oil divided • 1 medium onion thinly sliced • 8 ounces dry linguine • 14 ½ ounce can diced tomatoes with juices • cup dry white wine • 3 large cloves garlic chopped • ½ teaspoon dried oregano • ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves • ¼ cup chopped fresh Italian parsley Add seafood, salt and crushed red pepper to bowl and toss to coat. Heat three tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add seafood and cook and stir until cooked through, about two minutes. Transfer seafood to plate and set aside. To the same skillet add remaining olive oil and onion and cook and stir five minutes or until translucent. Then add tomatoes with juices, wine, garlic and oregano. Reduce heat, stir and simmer 10 minutes or until sauce is slightly thickened. While that is going, cook the linguine in a large pot until al dente; drain (do not rinse). Add seafood and pasta to tomato mixture and toss well to combine. Stir in basil and parsley, serve and enjoy! Happy holidays to all! -- Scott Dolan BigWaterFishMarket.com 6641 Midnight Pass Rd.
December 2021
N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date
Day
1
We
10:34a
High Tide 1.5
Sunrise
Sunset
Moonrise
Moonset
9:28p
2
Th
11:42a
3
Fr
12:51p
4
Sa
5
Su
6
Mo
7
High Tide 2.1
4:41a
Low Tide 0.0
4:11p
0.7
7:04a
5:35p
3:56a
3:38p
1.5
9:59p
2.3
5:32a
-0.4
4:41p
0.9
7:05a
5:35p
5:03a
4:19p
1.4
10:33p
2.5
6:22a
-0.6
5:06p
1.1
7:06a
5:35p
6:14a
5:07p
2:03p
1.3
11:11p
2.5
7:13a
-0.7
5:25p
1.2
7:06a
5:35p
7:27a
6:02p
11:53p
2.5
8:05a
-0.8
7:07a
5:35p
8:39a
7:04p
8:59a
-0.8
7:08a
5:35p
9:45a
8:12p
Tu
12:39a
2.5
9:53a
-0.6
7:09a
5:35p
10:42a
9:21p
8
We
1:31a
2.3
10:49a
-0.5
7:09a
5:36p
11:31a
10:27p
9
Th
2:33a
2.0
7:04p
1.3
11:43a
-0.3
7:10a
5:36p
12:12p
11:29p
10
Fr
3:54a
1.6
7:21p
1.4
12:36p
0.0
7:11a
5:36p
12:48p
11
Sa
5:43a
1.5
7:44p
1.5
12:53a
1.0
1:25p
0.2
7:11a
5:36p
1:20p
12:28a
12
Su
7:33a
1.3
8:10p
1.6
2:26a
0.6
2:10p
0.5
7:12a
5:37p
1:50p
1:24a
13
Mo
9:05a
1.2
8:35p
1.7
3:33a
0.4
2:50p
0.6
7:13a
5:37p
2:19p
2:18a
14
Tu
10:20a
1.2
9:00p
1.8
4:25a
0.1
3:26p
0.7
7:13a
5:37p
2:49p
3:12a
15
We
11:25a
1.2
9:25p
1.9
5:10a
-0.2
3:56p
0.9
7:14a
5:38p
3:21p
4:05a
16
Th
12:24p
1.2
9:49p
2.0
5:51a
-0.4
4:21p
1.0
7:14a
5:38p
3:56p
4:59a
17
Fr
1:19p
1.2
10:15p
2.1
6:28a
-0.5
4:41p
1.1
7:15a
5:38p
4:34p
5:54a
18
Sa
2:10p
1.2
10:43p
2.1
7:04a
-0.6
4:58p
1.1
7:16a
5:39p
5:17p
6:49a
19
Su
11:15p
2.1
7:38a
-0.6
7:16a
5:39p
6:05p
7:43a
20
Mo
11:51p
2.1
8:13a
-0.6
7:17a
5:40p
6:57p
8:34a
21
Tu
8:48a
-0.6
22
We
12:31a
2.1
4:17p
1.1
9:26a
-0.5
23
Th
1:17a
1.9
4:42p
1.1
10:05a
24
Fr
2:10a
1.8
5:11p
1.2
10:47a
25
Sa
3:13a
1.6
5:43p
1.3
26
Su
4:30a
1.5
6:16p
27
Mo
6:03a
1.3
28
Tu
7:47a
29
We
9:28a
30
Th
31
Fr
Low Tide
10:44p
1.2
7:17a
5:40p
7:52p
9:22a
7:35p
1.0
7:18a
5:41p
8:49p
10:05a
-0.5
8:47p
1.0
7:18a
5:41p
9:46p
10:45a
-0.3
10:10p
0.9
7:19a
5:42p
10:43p
11:20a
11:32a
-0.2
11:38p
0.7
7:19a
5:42p
11:41p
11:54a
1.4
12:18p
0.0
7:19a
5:43p
6:51p
1.6
1:05a
0.6
1:04p
0.3
7:20a
5:44p
12:39a
12:58p
1.1
7:27p
1.7
2:23a
0.3
1:48p
0.5
7:20a
5:44p
1:39a
1:32p
1.1
8:05p
1.9
3:31a
-0.1
2:29p
0.7
7:21a
5:45p
2:42a
2:09p
11:00a
1.1
8:45p
2.1
4:33a
-0.5
3:06p
0.8
7:21a
5:46p
3:49a
2:52p
12:24p
1.1
9:28p
2.3
5:30a
-0.7
3:38p
1.0
7:21a
5:46p
4:59a
3:42p
©2021 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW
Florida Puffer Yellowtail Florida Puffer Sailfish Sailfish Spanish Mackerel Dohlpin “Mahi-Mahi”
Mangrove Snapper Scoolmaster Lane Snapper Scamp Black Mullet Snook Red Drum “Redfish”
Tarpon
Baracuda
Gulf Flounder
Florida Pompano Jack Crevalle
AmberJack
Spotted Sea Trout
Cobia
DECEMBER 2021 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay
35
27th State Media LLC
Black Drum
Phase
New
Catfish
1st
King King Mackerel Mackerel
Full
12:26p 3rd
Blue Marlin
Black Grouper
Sheesphead
36
T
Siesta Sand
DECEMBER 2021
941.312.0665
What’s new ... beyond the bridges
is the season for holiday shopping! We’re dedicating this month’s column to highlighting a number of local specialty stores right in our own back yard. We’ve discovered some hidden gems that hold quite an array of unique offerings for your holiday gift giving. Why not play Santa to yourself while you’re at it? While Gulf Gate continues to make news for the new restaurants that are popping up, the area is also home to a number of small shops with beautifully curated collections of jewelry and antiques, gifts for the cook, and specialty items for the home. One of these may become your favorite new shop. Spend an afternoon wandering around either side of Gulf Gate Drive and you’ll be glad you did. There’s also plenty of places to grab a bite to eat or drink. At Scandinavian Gifts, Baked Goods & Grocery, 2166 Gulf Gate
Drive, treasures from Sweden, Norway, Finland and all things Nordic await you. That includes gift items from Kosta Boda, Marimekko, and Orrefors, along with a collection of Swedish Christmas ornaments. You’ll also find decorations for the home that include brightly painted Swedish wooden birds that were featured in Martha Stewart’s magazine. A children’s corner is filled with books, dolls, whimsical soft toy animals, and colorful mobiles. The shop is also known for its foods and baked goods. Take home a delectable and best-selling 14-inch kringle pastry (frozen) for your holiday party. Described as “The most delicious thin, flaky pastry you’ve ever tasted,” it is brought in from Racine, Wisconsin’s O &H Danish Bakery and available in 13 different fillings. Visit scandinavian-south.com or
By Jane Bartnett Fluffy, friendly Bogart welcomes customers at Weldon’s. (photo by Jane Bartnett)
call (941) 923-4313. A few doors away, at Weldon’s Jewelry & Antiques at 2132 Gulf Gate Drive, there is an impressive selection of estate jewelry, antiques, collectibles and watches for men and women in gold, platinum and sterling silver. Select from quality “pre-loved” diamonds, colored gemstones and pearls. A family jewelry business that began in the 1860’s, the Gulf Gate Weldon’s store traces its roots back to 1915 Southport, England. You’ll receive a warm welcome from certified gemologists Nigel
Gift Certificates available — Buy $100 get a $20 Free OFFER ENDS JANUARY 1, 2022
HAPPY HOUR 4pm-6:30pm Happy Hour Food & Cocktails MONDAY PRIX-FIXE MENU 3 Course Menu for $25 — Every Monday OPA WEDNESDAY! Saganaki Opa! Appetizer $7 WINE THURSDAY 1/2 Off Bottles of Wine
UNIVERSITY PARK
HOURS OF OPERATION: Monday - Thursday 11:30 - 9 | Friday & Saturday 11:30 - 10 | Sunday 11:30-8
www.siestasand.us
8235 Cooper Creek Blvd, University Park, FL 941-359-4816
SARASOTA LANDINGS
4956 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 941-927-2270
www.ApolloniaGrill.com
Weldon and his daughter and co-owner Tamara Weldon, as you browse their ever-changing collections of sterling silver and gold. They also offer appraisal services for fine jewelry and accept select items for consignment. Watch and jewelry repairs are also offered on-site. “We specialize in diverse, interesting and unique jewelry as well as antique items,” says Nigel Weldon. Visit WeldonsJewelry.com or call (941) 923-6242 Jewelry of a different variety can be found at Hidden Gems SRQ at 6526 Gateway Ave. After opening in the early fall months of 2021, licensed jeweler and owner Tynan Elliot said he creates handcrafted beautiful jewelry items and shoppers may select from his vast selection of crystals that range in color from deep amethyst to the blue-green color of the gulf water. Laser-engraved art and laserengraved crystal jewelry, as well as unusual large crystals, gemstones and minerals that can be displayed as a piece of art, can also be found here. Visit HiddenGemsSRQ.com or call (941) 404-1413. Handcrafted gifts from Africa await you in Nontando, 6578 Gateway Ave., in Gulf Gate. Owner Gary Stern, a South African native who spent his earlier career as an executive in New York City before discovering Sarasota, personally curates all of the items and returns to Africa on buying trips for his store. Small hand-carved wood statues of giraffes, cheetahs and native African animals from Kenya and Zimbabwe are among the many items that could grace a home’s bookshelf. An assortment of brilliantly colored woven baskets, bowls and masks make this unusual store a must see. Visit nontando.com or call (941) 929-7844. Do you remember your own Raggedy Ann and Raggedy Andy dolls? At the Coastal Flow Ocean Inspired Gifts and Decor store, found at 7216 S. Tamiami Tr., the classic red-headed rag dolls are adorable as ever and a wonderful gift for a young child. The art work of some 60 local artists fills the store. Paintings,
Above, a classic favorite awaits you at Coastal Flow. Right, handcarved African animals grace Nontando. (photos by Jane Bartnett)
sculptures and all forms of coastal art pieces are here. Visit CoastalFlowGifts.com or call (941) 263-9081. Is there a surfer/beach boy or girl on your holiday gift list? Be sure to check out the Surfboard Tables store at 4501 S. Tamiami Tr. where you’ll find a selection of one-of-a kind handmade surfboard tables and chairs. A collection of hand-crafted home decor items, all with a distinctive coastal vibe, are also on display and ready to find their place under the tree. Visit surfboardtables.com or call (941) 799-1111. Finally, the big news at the Pelican Plaza Shopping Center, at 8732 S. Tamiami Tr., is the arrival of the Burlington store, in the space once occupied by Sports Authority. Having opened just in time for holiday shopping, this big-box store offers discounted prices on brandname clothing for the whole family as well as home goods, toys, baby supplies and pet-care items at great prices. Visit burlington.com or call (941) 499-3450. Happy holidays to one and all! A Swedish Santa candle from Scandinavian Gifts will light up the holidays. (photo by Jane Bartnett)
Your Go-To Store on the Island Morton’s Siesta Market is your one-stop shop for easy island living. We offer a large selection of staple groceries, beer and wine, as well as fresh produce, meats and seafood. In keeping with our Morton’s tradition, we also carry a delicious array of prepared foods, perfect for take-out, picnics, parties and more.
Please stop in and say hello!
205 Canal Road, Siesta Key • 941-349-1474 • MortonsMarket.com
VISIT OUR SIESTA VILLAGE LIQUORS JUST NEXT DOOR!
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941-444-7984 Onlyeyesopticalboutique.com 5
Marshall’s
Diane Shane
Working with Sarasota Buyers & Sellers since 1969
6541 Superior Ave. • Sarasota, FL 34231 GULFGATE Business District.
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Beall’s Outlet
Broker Associate
Condos, Villas, Single Family Homes & Investments
Stein Mart
Books-AMillion
941-924-2330
Full Service Optical Boutique. Call today and make an appointment with our Board Certified Optometry Physician. Discover this hiding gem in Gulf gate. Unique Contemporary & Vintage Eyeglasses.
GULF GATE
John Garner Broker Associate
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Customized sunglasses available, with or without prescription. Polarized lenses enhanced colors, contrast and clarity, also protect from glare and 100% of harmful UVA & UVC rays.
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many, many 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 941-924-2330 or drop by our office. Only Eyes, Optical (S-24) brings a new, exotic, eclectic, eccentric, unique collection of vintage, hipster, contemporary eyeglasses and sunglasses to the community. Licensed and experienced optician available to fill 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 with their licensed optician. Mellow Mushroom serves a oneof-a-kind pizza pie. The flavors and ingredients are just as unique and special as the restaurant’s design. Try a Mellow Mushroom stone-baked 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.
Hooters
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 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., 941-924-5800. 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. 1 - Thurs.) open until 2 a.m. (Fri & Sat.). Roberts Realty, Inc. (M-5) E 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 D property for our clients because we listen closely to their wants and needs and matching that as close as possible. FOR SELLERS, over the years we have C successfully listed and sold
Sun Trust
With our map, located below and to the right, 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 (G-11): 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. – 941-5548905.
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HOMES FOR SALE PAGE 42
The Highs and Lows of Properties Sold on Siesta Key
www.siestasand.us
ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 43 Provided by William Raveis Real Estate / www.raveis.com
The 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 3935 SHELL RD. $6.275 MILLION Welcome to Casa de la Playa, one of the most stunning beachfront properties on Siesta Key. Featuring 109 feet of sandy beach frontage on the Gulf of Mexico and unobstructed ocean views from every room create an enchanted setting for seaside living. Inspired by its singular waterfront location, water motifs are everywhere -- from the natural stone water feature in the foyer and waterfall pool grotto to the gentle pond cascade on the walk to the LOWEST PRICED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE 466 AVENIDA DE MAYO $775,000 This charming 1,222-square-foot cottage is ideal for beach living. This oversized 9, 000-square-foot corner lot is surrounded by mature landscaping and offers the potential for expansion. Outside, you’ll find great entertaining space on your private patio, an outdoor shower, and covered parking. Inside, you’ll find new floors and a renovated bathroom. The
beach. The 4,712-square-foot residence has four bedrooms with en-suite baths and Gulf-facing balconies, plus a home office. Social areas include the living room, dining room, high-end kitchen, family room, game room and expansive outdoor entertaining area. A three-stop elevator provides easy access to every level. Set on over 3/4 of an acre, the property and beach are fenced and gated for privacy and features lush tropical landscape, lagoonstyle swimming pool, two-level tiki hut, tidal pond and open beach area with fire pit.
home also has a new roof (2020) and A/C (2017). Adjacent to the cottage is a 222-square-foot private studio where you or your guests can escape to create art, practice yoga, or use as extra storage. Two bedrooms, one bathroom and an oversized multi-purpose den gives you plenty of room for the ultimate beach living! Has proven seasonal rental income for three years. Courtesy of Keller Williams
HIGHEST-PRICED CONDO 420 BEACH RD. #502 $1.275 MILLION This fifth-floor updated unit with a lanai that wraps around to the side of the living room area offers additional views of the waterfront and extra natural light to the living space. Open kitchen area to the great room with granite countertops and large tile throughout the unit. Great views of the gulf from the primary
LOWEST-PRICED CONDO 6703 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #107 $335,000 Fabulous fully furnished first-floor condo across the street from the famous Siesta Key Beach! HVAC and windows less than 1 year old.
Designed by Step Above Galleries. Beautiful one-bedroom, one-bath condo with pullout sofa bed for family or friends. Located in the quiet complex of Seawinds, this condo is tucked away in a cul-de-sac on the first floor. This condo has all the comforts of home
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941- 479-1175 • 856-278-7522 realtornemo@gmail.com
bedroom and sliding doors that lead out to the screened lanai. If you are looking for a great gulf front unit to call your home, this is a must see. Community has many amenities which include tennis courts, community pool, fitness center, clubhouse, boardwalk to the beach and beachside grill area. Gated entry and plenty of guest parking. Courtesy of Community Realty Services
without the hassle: pullout sofa bed, recliner, dining table, patio set, on-site laundry, full kitchen. Unit is stocked with towels, bedding, kitchen dishes and utensils.
My husband and I have just been through a nail-biting process of buying our dream home, from a distance and solely online, during this recent bullish housing market. We never had the opportunity to step foot into our house until the day before closing! Nevertheless, our trust in Al Nemore paid off. His professionalism, knowledge of the area, and productivity are why we chose him to represent us. When we spoke to him, we felt very comfortable that we had chosen the right agent. Al was on point in providing timely updates and detailed information, which aided in securing our home. He helped us formulate a fair and solid offer in this competitive market, and was very professional in his dealings with everyone concerned with the purchase. Even though the distance was a barrier, he was 100% available to us for all questions and concerns, from start to finish. We could not have made a better choice in having Al Nemore represent us as our realtor. This is what competency looks like! — Amber and Kevin
Al Nemore
Courtesy of Premier Sotheby’s
Courtesy of Joseph Prost Real Estate
NMLS #1783476
Marty Remillard NMLS#343653
No Lender Fees 941. 223.9416 highdefintionmortgage.com
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Hotelier believes in project
Word Search
Continued from page 12
to put on a dead-end street?” Waechter asked, adding that a bar would be much worse and create much more traffic. “This hotel is a godsend.” Clayton Thompson, who owns Clayton’s Siesta Grille on Old Stickney Point Road, is an outspoken proponent of the plan. “I fully support the proposal. I think that it will complement Siesta Key, it will complement the neighborhood. I think they’ve adequately addressed the parking requirements. As a matter of fact, we need parking in that neighborhood desperately,” he
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said. Modern hotels on Siesta are needed to help offset the AirBnB problem, Thompson added. “With a big resort-style bar or restaurant, you’re going to have 500 to 600 cars a day coming in and out of there. That I would consider a serious traffic problem. Do we need another bar/ restaurant? I don’t think so.” And even as Kompothecras continues augmenting his current projects, he is looking forward to the future. “More things are planned,” he said. “Stay tuned!”
AQUARIUM
Remembering Winter the Dolphin
BEACH CLAY CLEARWATER DECEMBER DOCTOR DOLPHIN FISH FRIENDSHIP HAZEL HOPE MANDY MOVIE PANAMA PHOEBE POOL
The Landings
40 + flavors of ice cream and milkshakes, bubble waffle, sundaes, tiramisu.
Open 7 days a week 4862 South Tamiami Trail in The Landings BigOlafDream.com • 941-539-3939
PROSTHETIC RESCUE RUFUS SAWYER SEA TALE TURTLE VOLUNTEER WINTER
Answers on Page 42
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5400 Ocean Blvd. #2-1 | $2,599,999 Holly Parry | 941.809.8050
6810 Midnight Pass Road | $1,350,000 Dawn Bear | 941.468.7224
5400 Ocean Blvd. #1-3 | $1,599,999 Holly Parry | 941.809.8050
#1 Family-Owned Real Estate Company in Florida and the Northeast Recognized in 2018 as the #1 Luxury Broker by Luxury Portfolio International
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Classifieds / Here’s My Card AUTOMOTIVE DELIVERY
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MEDICAL
CONTRACTORS
Board-Certified dermatologist skin CanCer • laser • Botox and Hair/nail disorders
J Morgan O’Donoghue, MD.
1952 Field Road Sarasota, Florida 34231
• DRIVER for YOUR vehicle, cargo and pets. Sarasota/Siesta Key/Port Charlotte area to MICHIGAN ONLY. Offering services that carriers/haulers are unable to provide. Background check. Bonded. Insured. Chauffeur’s license. Retired law enforcement officer. 941-323-3945 or 313-434-2070 or www.yhvaletdriving.com
941.926.7546
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POOLS
DRY CLEANERS
AUTOMOTIVE VALET Environmentally Conscious Laundry and Dry Cleaning Service CONTACTLESS!
Free Pick Up & Delivery Service Sarasota to Tampa Airport $ 89 each way
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RELIABLE AIRPORT RIDES
Long Distance Trips We Specialize in Helping the Elderly, Handicapped and We are Pet Friendly
PLEASE CALL: 941.735.4732
Call
from your home or business
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ExEcutivE Shirt SErvicE • houSEhold itEmS • SamE day SErvicE availablE
FOR SALE
LANDINGS RESIDENT OWNED AND OPERATED
REAL ESTATE AGENTS
HELENE M. HYLAND
Refrigerator for sale, great condition, 3.5 years old, bisque color, $200. Call 941-925-1291.
REALTOR®
(941) 685-2274 Cell (941) 349-4411 Office (800) 237-9403 Toll Free (941) 349-8090 Fax HeleneHyland@comcast.net
HOUSEKEEPER WANTED Housekeeper wanted for Covid Conscious Family Hope to connect with a caring, experienced individual who has availability at least 5 days a week and willing to work some weekends. Flexible hours. Prior housekeeper experience and provide references. We are in Siesta Key. If you are interested, please call Barb at 530-263-7818.
HOUSE WATCH
House Watch Sarasota Licensed and Insured
Affordable and Dependable Service Solutions For Your Home While You Are Away
BOATING RENTALS / FISHING CHARTERS
5145 Ocean Blvd. Sarasota, FL 34242 Owned and Operated by NRT, LLC
www.SheSellsSiestaKeySarasota.com
Book your slice of paradise today! Weekly rentals on Longboat Key, Siesta Key, and St. Augustine in Florida!
Dolphin Watch • SunSetS • half Day aDventure SailS
Book online today at: www.floridarent.com or call 800-851-1096 to speak to a vacation specialist!
R. BRuce Whittinghill, llc (941) 955-1864
Call or e-mail sarasotabruce1@housewatchsrq.com housewatchsrq.com for quotes and references Serving SaraSota and Surrounding areaS Since 1979 Sailing From Marina Jack, Sarasota
Kathleen D Sailing Catamaran 941-896-6400
RESTAURANTS
www.KathleenD.net
Captain Jacks Yacht Charters
Capt. Jack Wallace 941.320.8700 www.sarasotachartervessel.com Pleasure Cruises only Sunsets/Weddings/Special Occasions Hourly, Daily, Weekly
COMPANIONSHIP
Your Companion
Compassionate Company To Help You Through The Day
Offering Transportation and Companionship to.... * Doctor Appointments * Beauty Salon Appointments * Shopping and more!
Insured, Bonded and Licensed by The National Home Watch Association.
(941) 961-4309
www.SuncoastHomeConcierge.com
CITIZEN JACK
HOME WATCH SERVICES Accredited, Bonded, Insured & Certified
AmericAn Born, A FloridiAn By God's GrAce! Honest As ABe...responsiBle As GeorGe!
SPAS / HAIR & BEAUTY
citizen JAck's Got your BAck tHis president's dAy And Beyond!
Jim Farley (#06190076)
941.350.3610 info@citizenjackhws.com www.citizenjackhws.com
JEWELRY
APPOINTMENTS AVAILABLE HOURS: MON. - FRI.: 9AM - 6PM
941-312-6001 2081 SIESTA DRIVE SARASOTA, FL 34239
Please call for complimentary interview:
Patricia Newman from 9am-5pm
941-923-4301
SPEAKERS
BAUMANN
“Serving All of Southwest Florida” • Companionship • Dementia/Alzheimers Care • Medication Reminders • Meal Preparation • Transportation/Errands • Light Housekeeping • Shopping
941-499-4008 Family Owned and Operated H2H.companions@gmail.com Heart2HomeHealthCare.com
LODGING/RENTALS • Best Western Plus Siesta Key – AAA -3 Diamond Property, Free shuttle service to and from Siesta Key 941-924-4900, 6600 S. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota. • Siesta 4 Rent - Vacation Rentals, from studios to 5 bedrooms. Serving Siesta Key since 1997, 941-349-5500
JohnBaumann.com Inspirational Speaker WJSHTHPD* *Who Just So Happens To Have Parkinson’s Disease 502-262-3300
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Classifieds (cont.) SPIRITUALITY
CARLA MARY Start your journey of awakening from the inside out Massage, Holistic therapies/healing, Reiki and Acupressure • God the Father invites you to worship His Son Jesus ... SIESTA BEACH PRAYER CIRCLE ... Every Saturday ... an hour before Sunset ... The Original Pavilion ... 948 Beach Road, Sarasota, FL USA ... Look for the American flag ... ”The Spirit and the Bride say ‘Come.’” Siesta Beach Prayer Circle is registered as a fictitious name with the state of FL and operates as a non-profit. Donations are welcome.
Classes on meditation, healing and other mind/body/spirit related Ask about our first time client specials starting at $40 3205 Southgate Circle, Suite #16 • Sarasota 941-320-2687 • carla@carlamary.net By appointment only carlamary.net #MA35225 #MM41364
Handmade Antique Rugs Bought and Sold
Florida’s Largest Selection of Antique Oriental and Chinese Rugs for 45 Years TOY DRIVE! The office of Michael Saunders & Company, 5100 Ocean Blvd., is asking the community to participate in a holiday toy drive that supports local agencies. Please contribute a new, unwrapped toy to the donation box in the business’ lobby.
Mosby oriental rugs
941-925-1025 by appointment www.antiqueorientalrugs.com
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HOMES FOR SALE GULF-FRONT UNIT Rarely available, spacious three-bedroom, three-bath. On the beach in The TERRACE building. The location is second to none, directly on the beach and just steps away from the heart of the village. This fabulous beachfront corner unit has five oversized balconies with stunning sunsets. The swimming pool is fantastic; over-sized, extremely deep, heated, saltwater with full gulf-front views. If you enjoy sunsets and walking the beach you have found paradise. The award-winning white sugar sand of Siesta Key, the finest white sand in America is at your doorstep. 5400 OCEAN BLVD, #2-1, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS# A4472758, $2,599,999, William Raveis Real Estate, 941-894-1255
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Word Search Answers from Page 39
PERFECT INVESTMENT PROPERTY. NO minimum stays and NO pet restrictions. The premier location of Sandy Toes is one of the most desirable spots on Siesta Key within close walking distance to everything that is needed for a memorable world-class island vacation experience. Park the cars in your two-car garage and walk to shops, restaurants, boutiques, and the newest most popular nightlife and live music on the island or jump on the Siesta Key Breeze Trolley to experience Siesta Village. 6810 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, SARASOTA, FL 34242, MLS# A4507853, $1,350,000, William Raveis Real Estate, 941-894-1255 PRICE DROP STUNNING VIEWS from three-bedroom, two-and-a-half-bathroom beach condo. The views are stunning, and the sunsets never disappoint. The total square footage is 2,245 with 1,845 square feet of air-conditioned space with five private balconies, three of which are oversized. This flowing open floor 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, $1,599,999, William Raveis Real Estate, 941-894-1255
NEW WATERFRONT SANCTUARY Situated in a private tropical setting on north Siesta Key at the end of a cul-de-sac. It features a dock with davit allowing for a quick boat ride to Sarasota Bay, Lido Beach and direct access to the Gulf and Intracoastal Waterway. This charming and unique open floor plan features a vaulted ceiling, reclaimed wood beams, wood floors, fabulous kitchen with glassed pantry, spacious wood and granite countertops, and stainless appliances. Double French doors open to an expansive covered deck. 111 FAUBEL ST, SARASOTA, FL 34242 MLS# A4517235,
®
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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.us
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Sunset Beach Resort Siesta Key Dream Inn
• 2ND Month Free • Free Move-In Truck • Entire Facility Carpeted • Free Lock & Keys • Big Garage Bay For Loading And Unloading • Climate Controlled 941.315.5222 5260 Tamiami Trail • Sarasota, FL 34231 www.thelockup.com
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 breakfast included with every stay • Free Shuttle Service to and from Siesta Key every day. • Microwave/Fridge in every guestroom *Amenities and services may be adjusted due to COVID-19, please contact the hotel or visit our website for details
Hours: Wed. - Sun.: 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
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DECEMBER 2021
941.312.0665
www.siestasand.us
Key Employee
Juana
Juana is a food runner and table cleaner at Toasted Mango Cafe in Crescent Plaza. An employee of nine years, she says she puts in hours every day. That’s just an expression, right? Do you really mean every single day? “Yes,” she said, as her manager nodded in confirmation. “Everyone here is so nice and so happy, every day. So I like to be here.” Juana also enjoys her dual role at the cafe. “I like it most when we’re busy. It keeps me active and the time flies,” she said. Juana came to Florida from Toluca, Mexico. Photos by John Morton (To nominate a Siesta Key employee worthy of recognition, email: info@27statemedia.com.)
Sun Garden Cafe recognizes the impact that quality workers can have on a business, and is proud to sponsor the Key Employee each month.
Congratulations, Juana! Your dedication has resulted in a gift certificate for breakfast for four at Sun Garden Cafe, located at 210 Avenida Madera in the Village.