Siesta Sand - July 2023

The search for answers is on

Save Siesta Key begins process of trying to find out what happened to its incorporation bill in Tallahassee

By John Morton

The Friday before Memorial Day, the Save Siesta Key Board of Directors gave these marching orders to its two lobbying groups: Go find out what happened to House Bill 923 – the measure calling for the incorporation of the island that died mysteriously at the state capitol.

“The residents of Siesta Key deserve answers,” Tim Hensey, chairman of Save Siesta Key, said. “These people helped us raise $265,000 and delivered an 87% approval for incorporation in a straw vote. The community has come through and, again, all it wants is the right to vote on this.”

The lobbyists will be interviewing both members of the legislature and those close to the scene, Hensey said.

Their findings could play a role in whether the incorporation group applies again by Sept. 1 for a third shot at its endeavor, Hensey added, but he noted that the makeup of the legislature in January of next year (when it next meets) would be mostly the same, which could prove daunting. Elections and/or term limits don’t come into play until next fall.

Still, the search is on for an explanation.

“That’s all we want,” Hensey said. “We have no idea what happened.”

The incorporation bill stalled during the recent meeting of the Florida Legislature in the hands of the second committee to which it was assigned,

Continued on page 16

Governor chops away Midnight Pass money

Sarasota County was able to enjoy its Midnight Pass financial boost for only a little more than a month.

On June 15, Gov. Ron DeSantis eliminated from the state budget the $1 million the Florida Legislature had approved as a starting point for research, design and permitting for the potential of restoring the waterway that once ran between Siesta Key

By John Morton

and Casey Key. Said Sarasota County Commissioner Joe Neunder, whose District 4 seat lies in the territory where Midnight Pass once existed, “Water quality here in Sarasota County has always been a high priority to me and the community I grew up in and serve. I will continue to explore options readily available to our community and look forward to

potential paths that could lead to this endeavor being a reality.”

It was one of three Sarasota County projects axed by the governor, bringing the ire of Joe Gruters, the Sarasotabased state senator, who

Page

publicly stated that DeSantis’ actions were likely politically motivated. Gruters, who formerly chaired the state’s Republican Party, has endorsed Donald Trump. DeSantis said in March that he’d run against the former president.

“Extremely disappointing,” is how

Ashley and Brian Dastolfo (foreground) enjoy one last sunset along the public beach during a recent wedding anniversary spent on Siesta Key. The couple, visiting from Vineland, New Jersey, stayed at the Crescent Royale. “We had a fabulous time,” Ashley said. Brian captured the powerful image using an Insta360 camera mounted on a selfie stick.

CASEY KEY RD | $5.2M

MIDNIGHT PASS RD | $5.1M

Thank you, Florida Legislature’s Ways & Means Committee, for bringing back a time-honored communication technique for which I was known. You know, the one where if there’s something you don’t want to hear you smile at your adversary, calmly place your fingers in your ears, and scream “LAH! LAH! LAH! LAH! LAH! LAH! LAH!

LAH! LAH! LAH! …”

Finally, I was told to knock it off one year by a guidance counselor on the first day of school. I remember thinking, “Hey, I thought high school was going to be fun!”

Anyway, Save Siesta Key’s House Bill 923, which asked that residents be given the chance to vote whether our island should become its own municipality, was downright ignored for five weeks by this committee – right on the heels of unanimous approval by the first committee SSK visited.

Not a word of warning. Not a status report. Not an update. And, after it died without even reaching an agenda, certainly not an explanation. Bupkis.

So rude, so pompous and, in many ways, so childish.

Regardless of whether you support incorporation, it’s hard to deny that Save Siesta Key has been royally screwed by the political process. First, the local delegation of legislators kills nine months of work with a 3-3 vote, having the nerve to lecture the group after the

Greetings from the Gulf Spurned and burned and very little learned

By John Morton

fact on how it could have won after they had all been interviewed by the group in person prior to the vote.

Save Siesta Key pays attention to the suggestions, however, conducts a $40,000 straw poll, and goes to Tallahassee with what it believes is all bases covered. And then this? A snub of all snubs?

It deserved so much better.

Our state representatives that make up the House come from all walks of life, bring many talents, and hardly get rich doing this. It is often a political springboard and being a master at moving things along is the name of the game.

Hopefully, more so than grinding them to a halt.

But, when together, the members often become a powerdrunk collection of big-talking blowhards. I watched parts of the Florida Legislature at work back in April on the Florida Channel, and oh my how they waxed poetic on their bills. Then there’s the best of all – the “I agree” bit where they slime their colleagues with superlatives while also showing their constituents how much they’re engaged.

Apparently, the easiest way to be heard in these parts is by having nothing to say. Here’s the kind of mumbo-jumbo you can expect:

“Allow me to echo the sentiments of our truly fine statesman from Swampsville! Waging the war against public lizard mating at Yeehaw Junction is as fine an example of public service as I do hereby recall.

And let the record show I wholly concur.”

Say the above in your best Foghorn Leghorn, and you’ll like it even more.

Speaking of characters, the Schoolhouse Rock! producers now need to reshoot the “I’m Just a Bill” segment because of this fiasco. Let’s keep it real, people.

Scene 1: Our bill, Bill, donning a Siesta Key tourist T-shirt, paces alone up and down the capitol steps while other cartoon characters walk by and point at him, whispering to one another. Two of them are the town seal of Redington Beach.

Scene 2: A blank screen that only reads 35 DAYS LATER.

Scene 3: An emaciated, soaked, down-and-out Bill is shown living under a pier on Redington Beach. The sympathetic seagulls are throwing him pieces of Wonder bread.

I bring up Redington Beach, a little town on the Gulf of Mexico in nearby Pinellas County, for a reason.

Pinellas has 24 incorporated municipalities in its 608 square miles. Sarasota County, in its 725 square miles, has four.

In Redington Beach, only 1,370 people reside in what is one square mile of space. On Siesta Key, about 7,000 people live on 3.46 square miles of space.

Little Redington Beach can be one of Florida’s 411 municipalities, but Siesta Key can’t?

Also perplexing is how James Buchanan, vice-chairman of that beforementioned Ways & Means Committee and a Sarasota County legislator who twice voted down the Siesta Key

incorporation effort’s attempt to even get to Tallahassee (once in victory, a second time in defeat), during his most recent vote of rejection mentioned how the state’s incorporation statute prohibits the creation of municipalities within 2 miles of an existing one. Siesta Key, for example, is within 2 miles of Sarasota.

Well, the state waives that restriction all the time. In Pinellas County, most of the towns, villages and cities are stacked upon one another. Do you really think Redington Beach isn’t close to Redington Shores?

Back to our buddies in the Ways & Means Committee. I can’t help but wonder if Glenn Close herself would have gotten a rise out of these self-proclaimed know-it-alls. Her steely-eyed stare when proclaiming “I’m not going to be ignored” from Fatal Attraction would have likely been laughed out of the room. And they would have returned to their bill promoting rabbit stew.

As for Siesta Key’s incorporation group, it is at one hell of a crossroads. Does it scramble to raise more funds and reapply by Sept. 1 for a third time, knowing the same people await it at that infamous Ways & Means Committee?

SSK Treasurer Steve Lexow reported it would cost about $100,000 to go through the process again, and the coffers are

now bare. And remember, Save Siesta Key is a 501(c)(4) entity – its donors cannot write-off their contributions. It makes their ability to have raised $265,000 even more impressive.

Or does Save Siesta Key wait a year, hoping for changes in the political ranks via both term limits and the next round of elections in the fall of 2024?

Or does it throw up its hands in disgust?

Soon after Tim Hensey was named chairman of Save Siesta Key about a year into its existence, he described its first surprise defeat at the hands of the legislative delegation as being “taken to the political woodshed.”

What could he possibly say about what just happened in Tallahassee? That his group just came out of a torture chamber? Or in this case, torture chambers?

But why moan and groan about it when it seems to fall upon deaf ears?

You know, lah, lah, lah, lah, lah lah lah.

(John Morton is managing editor of Siesta Sand.)

Property owners seek variance,

The owners of two properties – one that’s on the Gulf of Mexico at 77 Beach Rd. and one that’s diagonally behind it at 70 Avenida Veneccia – are seeking a coastal setback variance of 75 feet seaward of the gulf beach setback line, with the goal of demolishing the existing structures and building an 11-unit condominium.

The gulf beach setback line was established to protect dunes and other beach habitat while minimizing damage landward from storm surge and floods.

Sunset Beachfront Resort LLC, the owner, will pursue the setback at the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners meeting on July 12 at 9 a.m. at the county’s Administrative Center, 1660 Ringling Blvd.

The general public is invited to speak on the subject, with a limit of five minutes per speaker.

The property is 2.383 acres combined, and was purchased in November of 2021 for a combined $10 million, according to the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office.

The structure at 77 Beach Rd. was built in 1925, the structure at 70 Avenida Veneccia in 1977.

-- John Morton

Siesta Beach Lots, county reach settlement

By John Morton

Another settlement has been reached in the ongoing disputes between Siesta Beach Lots LLC and Sarasota County, and this one could open the door to the creation of a parking lot.

Businessman Mike Holderness owns lots 14, 15, 16 and 17 of the Mira Mar Beach Subdivision, and they’ve been the focal point of several lawsuits against county regarding Holderness’ access to those parcels, which are on the gulf side of Beach Road and which has been hindered by the county’s placement of bollards -- a series of short posts set at intervals intended to delimit an area or to exclude vehicles.

The settlement, which occurred in April, eliminated a non-jury trial in the 12th Judicial Circuit Court that had been scheduled for May 8.

On May 9, the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners voted unanimously to accept the May 1 recommendation of the county attorney, which read in part:

“Siesta Beach Lots LLC alleged that bollards installed in front of Beach Access No. 3, Beach Access No. 2, and at the intersection of Beach Road and Columbus Boulevard have blocked riparian access to the property, specifically referring to the right to launch a boat from its property.

“As a result of court-ordered mediation. there is a proposed settlement for the board’s consideration.

“The settlement agreement does not involve any money being paid to Siesta Beach Lots. Each side will bear its own costs and attorneys’ fees. The settlement agreement acknowledges Siesta Beach Lots has access to its property through the vacated portion of Beach Road, which is consistent with the right it already held under a public access

From the Publisher’s Desk ... by Brion

Palmer

A toast to summer and our new look

Life on Siesta Key is always evolving and so is the Siesta Sand.

Over the past two years, we have made some critically important investments to the paper with the sole objective to make the paper a more interesting, informative, and relevant reading experience.

We also invested in a higher quality of paper to make the pages brighter and subsequently easier on our eyes.

Now, as you are reading the July issue, you certainly have noticed our newest change; the paper now consists of two sections. The first section features all the news impacting life on Siesta Key and our real estate coverage. Section 2, “Island Visitor,” features all the places to eat, drink, shop, and

things to do on and around Siesta Key. Hopefully, this new format makes it easier for all our readers to find the content that appeals to them much more easily.

This change was more about the future than the present, though. This new format gives us some flexibility with our printer as we plot and strategically develop plans to grow the paper and expand its coverage.

In the previous format, we couldn’t expand our page count beyond 48 pages because of technological limitations. Our printer’s press just couldn’t handle the 48-page continuous page count and meet our standards on quality.

Now, with two separate sections, we can easily go up or down on page count depending on season, content, and advertising without compromising or concern over how the paper ended up looking when it comes off the printing press.

There have also been times we

had to delay or cut stories and turn away advertisers to keep the paper at 48 pages. That is a thing of the past now!

Speaking of advertising, I want to thank all our advertisers for their support of the Siesta Sand. Without it, our humble community paper wouldn’t exist.

Their monthly financial support of the Siesta Sand is what allows the paper to be a reality. We are committed to making the Siesta Sand the very best publication for our readers and advertisers.

In kind, I would like to encourage our readers to thank our advertisers by frequenting their businesses. If you are looking for a place to eat, have a drink, shop, buy a souvenir, or for something to do, the pages of the Siesta Sand are full of options. Your support would undoubtedly be appreciated by our advertisers and by us.

Once again, the Siesta Sand is proudly sponsoring the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Community Fireworks Show. This celebration and event is truly special in bringing the whole community together and the Siesta Sand is all about community!

Recently, our friends at Blasé Café prepared a special Siesta Sand martini for us. So, here is a toast to you and life on Siesta Key. It is quite a special place whether you are lucky to call it home or just visiting.

Thank you for reading the Siesta Sand!

trucks wait in line to add sand to the stockpile that siat on Turtle Beach as part of the ongoing beach repair project that was on schedule to conclude

Sand addition is completed

By John Morton

A project that was controversial and intense is in the island’s rearview mirror, and it appears to be a success.

With time to spare, the final dump truck emptied its sand on June 12, and heavy equipment left Turtle Beach on June 19 as the South Siesta Beach Repair Project reached its goal of adding 92,505 cubic yards of sand to a 2.1-mile section of the beach.

All that was left to do before the June 30 deadline was raking and tilling, along with repairing the dunes that were impacted by machinery and trucks rolling over them to reach the beach.

Since the third week of April, trucks have been going back and forth to a sand mine in Lake Wales which is two hours away. As many as 130 trucks were making two roundtrips per day to meet the project’s demands.

During June, the emphasis was on bolstering the area south of Turtle Beach Park, where the project’s stockpile existed. The Fisherman’s Cove complex on Blind Pass Road was among the areas that benefitted from the new sand, adding about 10 feet of width to a beach that was substantially thinned out.

“It’s beautiful. They’ve done a great job, they’ve been efficient, and we couldn’t be happier with how it’s going,” Melanie Walker, a reservationist at Fisherman’s Cove, said in mid June of the project. “The Gulf water was right up to one of our crossing bridges – that’s how little sand we had.

“And several rocks were exposed that used to be covered. It eliminated our handicap access to the beach,

Continued on page 18

Fatal crash occurs on Beach Road

A 23-year-old Sarasota man died early June 7 when his car struck a utility pole and then a tree on Beach Road, west of Avenida Del Mare along the edge of the public beach parking lot.

The single-car accident occurred at 2:07 a.m. The sedan was traveling at a high rate of speed and lost control at a curve in the road. The driver, who was ejected from the car when it overturned, was not wearing a seat belt, Florida Highway Patrol reports. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

His passenger, also a 23-year-old Sarasota man, sustained critical injuries and was taken to an area hospital.

Both lanes of Beach Road were closed until 7:30 a.m. the morning of the incident.

The crash remains under investigation.

Rainford appointed to vacant Sarasota County commission seat

Neil Rainford has been appointed by Gov. Ron DeSantis to fill the Sarasota County Commission seat that became vacant after the passing of long-time community leader Commissioner Nancy Detert in April, Sarasota County officials report.

The District 3 seat covers Venice and parts of Nokomis and North Port.

The seat is up for re-election in 2024. Rainford took the oath of office June 13 and participated in that day’s commission meeting.

Rainford

Rainford, 36, is a senior executive with Sarasotabased Mullet’s Aluminum Products.

“Assuming the seat of a legend like Nancy Detert won’t be easy, but I’m honored to be entrusted by Gov. DeSantis with this appointment to the Sarasota County Commission,” Rainford said. “We are consistently ranked as one of the top communities in the nation in which to live. So, we are already doing a lot right.”

But he said there are ongoing needs in Sarasota County, and his priorities will be infrastructure, business climate and workforce housing.

He already has experience in local government

and the community. He is a current member of the Sarasota County Planning Commission and was an elected member of the Charter Review Board. He has also been twice elected secretary of the Republican Executive Committee.

Daytime structure

fire extinguished at Point of Rocks Road dwelling

A two-alarm structure fire at a house in the 1000 block of Point of Rocks Road received a response from the Sarasota County Fire Department on June 5.

The call came in at around 12:57 p.m. Crews on the scene reported heavy smoke upon arrival and declared a working fire. The fire was out by 1:42 p.m. It was deemed to be an electrical fire and no injuries were reported.

Sheriff reports 10% decline in spring break incidents

The Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is crediting an increase in officer presence during the 2023 spring break on Siesta Key for what it reports as a 10% decline in incidents when compared to 2022.

The total number of incidents handled this year was 923, compared to 1,020 last year. And the number of arrests made this year was 42, compared to 46 last year.

Siesta Promenade’s new plans go before county planners July 20

The Sarasota County Planning Commission’s review of the revised plans for the Siesta Promenade project has been set for 5 p.m. July 20 at the county’s Administration Center, 1660 Ringling Blvd.

It had originally been set for June 15.

Benderson Development recently revised its plans, calling for another review. The project was originally approved in 2018.

The Sarasota Board of County Commissioners is scheduled to conduct its vote Aug. 30.

The project, located at the northwest corner of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road, will feature 414 apartments and/or condominiums, a 130-room hotel, 133,000 square feet of retail space, and 7,000 square feet of office space.

Dump

by June 30. (photo by John Morton)

Community Spotlight

QYouhave joined the ranks of the “citizen scientists” that help with the restoration efforts of Siesta Key’s Grand Canal, upon which you live. How did you get involved? And please describe your duties.

AI still chuckle when I hear the term “citizen scientist,” but it really is an accurate way to describe our team. None of us working on the canal project have any professional background or technical training in water-quality issues, and we certainly are not water biologists or “scientists.” We are a group of concerned and engaged citizens who are learning as we go, and trying to do the right thing for our environment and our community.

I got involved as a homeowner and full-time resident with a dock on the Siesta Key Grand Canal and with increasing concerns about the quality of the water and overall condition of the canal. After seeing a presentation at the Siesta Key Association in 2020, my wife, Ann, and I purchased and installed a mini-reef under our dock to see if we could increase fish and marine life. I then started working with Jean Cannon and Phil Chiocchio on the Siesta Key Canal Regeneration Project, exploring ways to install more mini-reefs and other technologies to improve water quality and to increase marine life on the canal system. We have received great support and invaluable education from organizations such as Mote Marine, Sarasota Bay Estuary Program, Suncoast Waterkeepers and others, as well as partners doing similar projects in Venice and Anna Maria Island.

We worked hard to encourage neighbors to purchase and install mini-reefs under their docks. We also realized early on that we needed to address the science – are we really improving water quality and increasing marine life? We began using borrowed equipment to test and measure elements of

water quality in the canal, and Phil used his experience to produce underwater videos illustrating fish and marine life in the canal and around the mini-reefs. Fortunately, we’ve been joined by our neighbor Kent Larson, who brought his professional experience working with complex lab and testing equipment (but not water testing) and in database development. With the support of the Siesta Key Association, we have been able to purchase our own testing and video equipment. I’m very excited that we have recently been joined by a small group of committed neighborhood volunteers who are helping immensely as we implement a regularly scheduled program of water testing and video monitoring at selected sites within our canal system.

Yay! More citizen scientists! We are very excited to report that we will soon have nearly 500 mini-reefs installed on Siesta Key!

QYou are an avid kayaker, and your vessel often plays a role in your watertesting efforts. Tell us how the kayak is helpful.

AI used my kayak quite a bit as we were building an inventory and mapping of

the docks and waterways along the canal system, particularly in the early days of the project. I believe that I’ve kayaked the entire 9 miles of the canal as it winds its way around the Village and the beach, and most people don’t realize that there are nearly 900 docks on the canal. I was on my kayak often for our early water testing, and I must admit it was challenging to use the testing equipment and record the results while on the kayak. I must have looked pretty funny out on the water. My wife and others did later join in to help recording the data while I used the equipment. But the early days were quite an adventure. We now don’t use the kayaks much for water testing or video monitoring, but they are still a useful way to get around some areas of the canal and to inspect equipment, etc. My wife and I just love getting out on the water. I’ve really come to appreciate what an invaluable asset and resource that the canal is for all of us – whether you live directly on it or not.

QYouare retired from a successful career in assorted planning services. Please share a little of that history. And is your

interest with the canal project a natural extension of that?

AI graduated in the mid-1970s with a degree in urban design and environmental studies from one of the early collegiate environmental programs in the country. I then earned a masters degree in city and regional planning from the University of North Carolina. I’m recently retired from a 40-plus-year career in transportation planning and project development, working within the local and federal government as well as for private contractors with a focus on public transit infrastructure and systems across the U.S and Canada. I’ve managed many planning, engineering and environmental projects throughout my career, but I was never the technical “scientist” completing environmental testing or analysis. That was always the job of somebody else. And, my career focus has been on transportation and particularly public transit.

So, water-quality science and testing are a whole new world for me. But I really have enjoyed learning and getting exposed to the critically important area of water quality, critical particularly for those of us living in Florida. I never imagined that in my retirement I’d be learning about dissolved oxygen, phosphates and nitrates – oh my!

So, it is true that my interest in the canal project is in some ways an extension of my background in planning and the environment. But my primary motivation has been as a concerned citizen and homeowner who lives on the canal on Siesta Key. I have long seen our canal system and waterways in general as a very important component of our very special life here on Siesta Key. I’ve also personally witnessed the serious decline in the quality of the water

Continued on next page

(Located at Channel Marker 62 at the Siesta Key South Bridge)

Not a mad scientist, a happy one Dave Vozzolo is enjoying the water in more ways than one during his retirement

Community Spotlight

and the extent of marine life on the canal system. For example, only a few years ago we would sit on our dock and see dozens of mullet jumping in the canal. Now, we rarely see that happening. We all need to be doing better to protect this special place.

QWhat is your history with Siesta Key?

AI think our story is a fairly common one. My wife and I were living in northern Virginia with our two teenage sons. In 2003, Ann and I came to Sarasota for the first time and spent a long weekend taking in the sun and the sights. After a few more visits with our family, we decided to buy a rental and vacation condo on the mainland just over the south bridge, and we would visit Sarasota and Siesta Key a couple times a year. In 2012, Ann and I and one of our sons permanently relocated here and lived in our condo until we moved into our current home near Siesta Key Village in 2013. I was still working but that was not an issue – and very happy to say that I was able to retire in 2020.

Ann and I absolutely love our neighborhood near the Village, and have formed a great tight-knit group of neighbors and friends who all love taking in the amazing local music scene on the Key. We’re about a 12-minute walk to the Village as well as a 12-minute walk to the beach – pretty much an ideal outdoor and walkable lifestyle.

We understand and agree with the growing frustrations and concerns about the increasing overdevelopment of Siesta Key. We’ve seen the changes even since our introduction to the area in 2003, and we really sympathize with our friends who are long-time and, some even lifetime, residents. The change has got to be shocking for long-timers. I do hope that more of our citizens, visitors and elected officials can respect the

fact that this is a fragile barrier island environment and it really cannot safely accommodate any more growth. Enough is enough.

QName your three top spots, and why, when it comes to kayaking around our island.

AWhile the mangrove tunnels on South Lido Key are more well known and larger, we enjoy kayaking the small mangrove tunnel area that is on Siesta Key off Roberts Bay just south of the entrance to the Grand Canal system (on the bay side of Tropical Circle). I must admit that I’m reluctant to mention this site, because not too many people seem to know about it. But once you leave the Bay and work your way through the mangrove tunnels, you really feel like you are in the middle of a secluded, quiet spot.

We also enjoy kayaking north on the bay from the entrance to the Grand Canal system and through the bayou between Roberts Point Road and Flamingo Avenue and under the hump bridge on Siesta Drive to where the bayou joins Big Pass. I believe the area is called Fishery Point. It is quite beautiful and a fun kayak trip. During low tide, we usually pull up the kayaks to one of the sandbar islands that are created in Big Pass. It’s a beautiful place to take a stretch break after the long kayak ride and to walk in the water.

One of our favorite activities is to go out kayaking with a group of friends on the evening of a full moon. About six to eight of us will kayak along the canal in the early evening, arriving into Sarasota Bay at about the time when the sun is setting behind us and the full moon is rising directly in front of us. It really is magical just sitting out there in the middle of the bay, and then kayaking back home along the canal lit spectacularly by the full moon. It is breathtaking and I highly recommend it!

Crescent Club looks to extend live-music hours

By John Morton

The Crescent Club is looking to extend its live-music hours beyond its current 10 p.m. shutdown time. The bar at 6519 Midnight Pass Rd. has applied with Sarasota County for a special-exception permit that would allow for live music on its street-side outdoor patio until 11 p.m. Sunday through Thursdays and midnight on Fridays and Saturdays.

Siesta Key’s current Unified Development Code limits live music to 10 p.m.

“People kept asking to play the live entertainment longer – 10 p.m. is just too early for the live entertainment to stop,” Gary Kompothecras, the business’ owner, said.

Step one was a neighborhood workshop on June 19, with property owners within 750 feet of the Crescent Club receiving notice. Next, the Sarasota County Planning Commission and then the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners will address the

Did you know that Siesta Key has a

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

request.

The last Siesta Key business to make a request for extended livemusic hours was Gilligan’s earlier this year, which was asking that performances go as late as 2 a.m. The Planning Commission voted in favor but the commissioners later said no.

Last year, the Crescent Club was fined $4,000 (since reduced to $1,000) for frequently violating its 10 p.m. shutdown time. Residents of the House of the Sun condo complex, located across the street, had complained about both the hours and volume.

Kompothecras said his business has taken measures to address the noise.

“We took major steps to reduce the decibel readings and turned the speakers and reduced the bass so that the music is within normal speaking range,” he said. “Besides, even if we get approved, it can be taken away if the sound is too loud.”

Gemstone?

Phil Chiocchio (left) and Dave Vozzolo, two of Siesta Key’s “citizen scientists.” (submitted photo)

Smoking ban to be discussed at July 11 public hearing

The details on how to implement a recent ban on smoking in Sarasota County’s public beaches and parks will take place at 9 a.m. July 11 as the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners tackles the new ordinance it put into effect in late February. The ban does not include non-filtered cigars.

The meeting, which will feature a public hearing where citizens receive five minutes to share their views, will be held at the R.L. Anderson Administration Center, 4000 S.

Tamiami Tr., in Venice.

If the ban is approved, it would begin Oct. 1 -- the start of the county’s new fiscal year. Litter, and its impact on both people and wildlife, is the focus of the ban. Cigarette butts can take up to 10 years to decompose, research has shown.

Sarasota County did have a similar ban in place between 2007 and 2012, but it was overturned in the courts. Before being approved last year in a measure where such a decision returned to local counties

and municipalities after being under state control, Sarasota-based state Sen. Joe Gruters

had proposed the ban three straight years without success during sessions of the Florida Legislature.

How the new ban would be enforced, and what fines would be levied upon violators, will be among the challenges commissioners will face.

Siesta Key’s Mark Smith, the commissioner for District 2, made the push for the ban that was supported by his colleagues in a 3-1 vote with Mike Moran opposing.

-- John Morton

Reviewed January 29, 2023

Ann T via TripAdvisor FRESH, DELICIOUS SEAFOOD

As frequent visitors to Sarasota, we’re not sure how we managed to miss this place in the past. Now that we have found it, we will be back to sample everything.

We tried the stone crab chowder and the grouper tacos. Both were delicious and loaded with fish. Our tacos were dressed with a pineapple, watermelon salsa and accompanied by a side of wheatberry salad which had just the right balance of sweet and tangy. Our son also raved about his broiled tripletail which came with fresh green beans and potatoes. Prices, including beer, were reasonable and portions were plentiful.

Meet Todd and his OPod

Researcher selects Siesta for innovative project, but receives opposition from county officials

By Ned Steele

Move over, farm-to-table. The next hot dining trend may be bay-to-table, if environmental entrepreneur Todd Kleperis succeeds at his ambitious goal.

Inspired by floating farms he saw in Asia, area resident Kleperis has made Siesta Key the testing ground for what he hopes will one day hatch into an international movement: sea-based agriculture that simultaneously produces fresh water and puts awesome foods on our plates.

Kleperis has devised an odd-looking contraption, that vaguely resembles a miniature outdoor shower stall, and has dropped it into the waters off Siesta Key Circle, near the north bridge. There it sits, desalinating the water it’s in and using it to grow … mushrooms. Which he then sells to posh restaurants.

If it sounds quixotic, hear Kleperis out:

“Traditional agriculture is broken,” he says, citing farm soil depletion that drains unhealthy fertilizers into the Gulf where they can cause red tide. “I believe we need to do something to save the planet.

“We’d like to show we can grow anything in the ocean.”

And make no mistake, Kleperis is thinking big. He’s currently in the midst of a $2 million round of financing, seeking investors looking for a side helping of profits alongside the environmental benefits of sea-based agriculture.

It’s not an entirely new premise, but the OPod, as Kleperis calls it, takes aquaponics to a new level. The device is solar powered, and the water it desalinates cools the growing plants. So, there’s no need for the air conditioning or lighting often associated with vertical farming.

While it’s just a single pod sitting in

the bay today, there is room on the waterfront property Kleperis owns for 10. The current pilot pod is a modest 3 feet by 5 feet, but future models may be as large as 10by-10. And that’s just the beginning of his vision. This can, pardon the pun, mushroom into a global environmentally friendly business within a few years, Kleperis says. There’s one cloud on the horizon. Sarasota County, thinking more locally than globally, has declared the project a violation of zoning. While Kleperis maintains the OPod is a boat, the county considers it a structure. And that is a problem because, the county says, “Agriculture is not a permitted principal use” at the OPod’s otherwise undeveloped site. It has labeled the project and the OPod “unpermitted,” and is threatening to haul Kleperis into court. Fines could hit as high as $500 a day for multiple violations.

After a June 17 enforcement date came and went, the county Planning and Development Services said: “Staff will be preparing an affidavit of violation,” which is a formal charging instrument requesting a hearing before the special magistrate.

“We have never been out of any compliance issue as we are a boat registered in the state of Florida,” Kleperis retorted. “We have gone under power on our vessel to the lot next door and

have wondered why code compliance is even involved in a maritime issue. Code compliance has zero to do with maritime boats.”

For now, the mushrooms continue to grow unimpeded and happily in the OPod, anticipating the day they will end up on diners’ plates, as they have in such establishments as Kojo, Selva Grill, and the Ritz Carlton.

Why mushrooms? Because they are simple plants that don’t need a lot of light to thrive and, producing a high yield, are a good starter crop. But, Kleperis is testing hot peppers, and may try bivalves next.

“In the future we could grow anything on the pod,” he said.

Kleperis has developed a connection to Jean Cannon, whose oyster-raising minireef water reclamation project has been documented in the Siesta Sand.

“His experiments push the boundaries,” Cannon said. “The technology is amazing. He is taking

salt out of the water. Sarasota needs these kinds of solutions. It is a growing community, and our water supply is challenged.”

More fresh water sites in the bay, she adds, could draw more visiting manatees to our shores.

Cannon hopes the zoning dispute will be resolved: “It would be a shame to lose Todd to another state or country,” she said. What brought Kleperis, a serial entrepreneur who has been involved in a range of ventures, including the field of financing logistics for the cannabis industry, to select Siesta Key as his site in the first place? The most normal of reasons, it turns out: “My wife got a job here. We moved here about five years ago,” he said. And let’s not forget an important question. The mushrooms -- how do they taste?

“They are astounding.” Cannon enthusiastically said.

Todd Kleperis at his research facility along Siesta Key Circle in Roberts Bay. (submitted image)

April 22, theft

Construction workers at Turtle Beach reported theft of equipment that had been left overnight. Traffic cones and traffic barricades had been stolen from the construction site. The total loss of the items was approximately $832. There was a large amount of trash and beer cans left on the ground in the same vicinity, which indicated that there had been a large gathering of people the previous night.

April 25, theft

Complainant is visiting Sarasota County and indicated that between 9 p.m. April 25 and 8 a.m. the next morning an unknown suspect stole a white Trek Verve1 bicycle from the community bicycle rack located

Sheriff’s Report

near the tennis courts within the condo complex. The bicycle was locked but suspect cut the lock and left it behind. The bicycle had been rented and per the contractual agreement the complainant had to pay rental company for the bicycle. Video footage was requested and the serial number was entered into the system.

April 27, theft

Deputies were dispatched to a gas station for a theft. Assistant manager advised that a suspect had stolen four water bottles. Video footage showed a suspect walk up to the outside storefront where there were stacks of cases of plastic water bottles. Suspect removed four bottles from one case and

walked away. Total lost value was $8.

April 28, burglary

A deputy responded to a residential burglary.

Victim indicated that she was getting ready to leave when she saw a female take her creamcolored bicycle. Surveillance video showed defendant coming through the victim’s fenced property and taking the bike.

En route to the residence, a deputy located the defendant who, upon seeing the patrol vehicle, stopped and changed directions and began riding the bicycle in a different direction. The deputy activated the patrol cars lights and defendant stopped.

Defendant was arrested for burglary of an occupied structure.

May 2, theft

A sheriff’s deputy was dispatched to a homeowner’s residence due to a complaint with respect to the construction company next door hooking up their hose to homeowner’s outdoor faucet and using his water. Sheriff advised construction worker to refrain from entering neighbor’s property and further using water. Construction superintendent arrived and indicated it would not happen again and offered to clean-up homeowner’s yard as retribution for the use of water. Homeowner indicated he would not press charges.

May 10, theft

Victim was dining at a Village restaurant with her husband. She hung her black crossbody strap bag over the back of her chair at the restaurant. During her meal a pink purse containing her driver’s license, credit and debit cards, and approximately $30 in cash was stolen. Shortly after it was stolen, she began receiving fraud alerts from her bank, including charges at a Best Buy. Video footage captured a male and female walking around the restaurant and then the male can be seen reaching down and removing items from the purse. Deputies responded to the Best Buy but were unable to locate the suspects.

Retirees: Talk finances with your grown children

Sarasota Local Brings Experience & Trust to Siesta Key

When you’re retired, you’ll likely have some financial concerns — just like all retirees. However, if you’ve invested regularly and followed a long-term financial strategy, you should be able to address most issues that come your way. But there’s one important action that’s sometimes overlooked by retirees: sharing their financial situation with their grown children. And this knowledge can benefit everyone in your family.

You might be surprised by the concern your children have for your financial well-being. Consider these findings from a 2023 study by Age Wave and Edward Jones:

• 66% of millennials (generally defined as ranging from 27 to 42) worry that their parents or in-laws may not have enough money to live comfortably in retirement.

• 83% of millennials would rather know their parents are financially secure in their retirement, even if it means their parents pass on less money to them.

If you have children in this age range or older, or who soon will be, how can you address their concerns and potentially

improve your financial outlook?

Communication is the key. By openly communicating with your family about your financial status, you can reduce anxieties and misperceptions. If you’re in good financial shape, your adult children may be reassured that you won’t be needing their assistance. And if you are feeling some financial pressures, you can

inform your children of the steps you are taking to improve your situation.

One such step may be to reduce your cost of living — the less you spend day to day, the better your ability to preserve your investment and retirement accounts. You may be able to reduce costs in many small ways, such as ending streaming services you no longer use, but you could make an even bigger impact by downsizing your living arrangements. In fact, 72% of today’s retirees have downsized or are willing to downsize to reduce their housing costs, according to the Age Wave/Edward Jones survey. Downsizing isn’t for everyone, but if it’s a possibility for you, it may be worth considering because the savings could be significant.

You may also be able to reduce or consolidate your debts. Start by understanding how much and what kinds of debt you have. Then, consider ways to lower your payments, such as refinancing. For example, if you’re carrying a balance on multiple credit cards, you might be able to transfer the amounts you owe onto a single

card with a more favorable interest rate.

Here’s another move to consider: Adjust your investment mix to possibly provide you with more income in retirement. During your working years, you may have invested primarily for growth — after all, you could be retired for two or more decades, so you’ll need to draw on as many financial assets as possible. But once you’re retired, your investment focus may need to shift somewhat toward income-producing opportunities.

Keep in mind, though, that you’ll still need some growth potential to help keep ahead of inflation.

One final suggestion: Let your children know if you already have a strategy in place to meet the potentially high costs of long-term care, such as a nursing home stay. This burden is certainly something you won’t want your children to take on.

By informing your children about your financial picture, and how you’re trying to improve it, you can ease everyone’s minds — so keep the lines of communication open.

Save Siesta Key wants answers

not even making the agenda of the Ways & Means Committee during a span of the final five weeks of the session.

And not once were Save Siesta Key representatives given any type of communication or progress report.

That perceived snub came on the heels of a March 29 favorable vote by a 17-0 count by the Local

Administration, Federal Affairs, & Special Districts Subcommittee. The bill appeared to have momentum with the Ways & Means Committee up next.

State Rep. James Buchanan, who is chairman of the Sarasota County Legislative Delegation, serves as vice-chairman of the Ways & Means Committee. Twice locally he voted against the bill reaching Tallahassee

Continued from page 1

– in January of 2022 when a 3-3 tie halted the process, and again this January as the only no vote in a 3-1 win for Save Siesta Key.

It was Buchanan who suggested the incorporation group conduct the straw vote, which took place in December of 2022 among registered voters residing on Siesta Key and saw a 42% response rate. It cost Save Siesta Key in excess of $40,000.

Answers hard to come by

The Siesta Sand asked Buchanan if he played any role in keeping the bill off the Ways & Means agenda. He did not directly answer the question, but did say: “It wasn’t a secret I was not in favor of it, because I am not in favor of more government and the higher taxes that come with it. I opposed the bill in the legislature and my position is unchanged. I am, and will continue to be, against adding layers of government to the lives of Floridians.”

In a follow-up question, the Siesta Sand asked Buchanan exactly how he opposed the bill in the legislature, seeing as there was no committee vote. He did not respond.

A similar question to state Rep. Stan McClain, chairman of the Ways & Committee, about his role in the process was also not answered.

So, how does the committee process work and how could a bill be swept aside without even a vote? Andres Malave, communications director with the Florida House of Representatives, said such matters are up to the discretion of each committee.

“It’s a methodical process,” he said, but noted that no internal votes are required when avoiding a bill, and no documentation is required. Further, any decision does not necessarily have to come from the chairman and specific name or names do not need to be attached to it.

State Rep. Fiona McFarland, who sponsored the measure, has said that the massive number of bills presented this year left many unaddressed as time got away from lawmakers. Indeed, more than 1,600 bills were pitched by the House and Senate combined, with only 356 reaching Gov. Ron DeSantis’ desk for final approval.

However, a closer look at the particular situation with the Ways & Means Committee may cast doubt, as far as House Bill 923 is concerned, on the relevance of that overview. Malave reports that 66 bills were referred to the committee, with 62 receiving a favorable vote. That means only four bills were either voted down or ignored, possibly eliminating the notion that a time crunch played a role in the Siesta Key bill not reaching the agenda. Malave wasn’t certain if any

other bills failed to reach the committee’s agenda.

Not that the path would have likely been easy had the bill received consideration. Of those 62 bills that got a green light from the Ways & Means Committee, only eight passed through both the House and Senate.

Views from those at the capitol

Meanwhile, McFarland and state Sen. Joe Gruters, also a member of the Sarasota County Legislative Delegation and a proponent for incorporation, addressed the Siesta Key matter at the June 15 meeting of the Sarasota Tiger Bay Club, where local political issues are discussed.

“I will keep trying,” said McFarland, assuming Save Siesta Key wants to make another attempt come September. “Siesta Key and child care will be my priorities in the new session.

“One of the reasons the Siesta Key legislation didn’t pass was the opposition to adding another layer of government.”

Gruters agreed. “We’re seeing a reduction in the return of rule to to local governments,” he said.

Gruters

He was also skeptical of the potential for any progress in 2024.

“Save Siesta Key did a great job, but I think we’ll have a better chance in two years,” Gruters said. “There’s a change in leadership every two years.”

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Sand project

which has now been restored.”

The sand that was placed was approved by the Florida Department of Environmental Protection and is lighter and less coarse than the sand synonymous with Turtle Beach. In 2016, only months after more than 70,000 cubic feet of sand was added to the area via a barge, Hurricane Hermine washed away a portion of the new sand – necessitating the current project.

Curtis Smith, Sarasota County’s project manager for the initiative, was pleased with the feedback he received.

“We’re hearing good things from people, who are hoping this is the only kind of sand we ever put out here again. We agree,” he said. “We’ve got this beautiful light-tan sand which is a nice contrast to what we put out here before, which was the medium-grade.”

Continued from page 7

budget. FEMA”s initial grant was for $4 million, but the project’s cost came in at a staggering $8.2 million.

Once slated for a date as late as 2026, FEMA last fall notified the county that a new deadline was June 30 of this year. It noted that Sarasota County was the last in the country to address the need for sand replacement caused by Hermine.

The county requested a one-year extension, with a desire to begin the project in November, but never received a response from FEMA.

Initially, the project was set to begin in early March with a 60-day window that allowed for it to be completed by May 1 -- the start of sea turtle nesting season.

That timeframe brought the ire of many residents, concerned about the truck traffic in the midst of tourist season.

The tilling will taking place at the end of the project will loosen the sand and make digging easier for sea turtles looking to create a nest.

Smith said he’s seen five new turtle nests arrive since the sand was put in place.

“That’s a natural stamp of approval,” he said.

FEMA has pledged to cover 85% of the project, with the balance coming from the county’s tourism

Delays in receiving construction bids would cause delays that would mean the proejct would go well past May 1, but a clause in the permit the county received from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection allowed for turtle nests to be moved, if needed, buying more time.

Both Mote Marine and Audubon Florida monitored turtle and shorebird nests, respectively, throughout the project with morning inspections.

Fresh sand in front of Fisherman’s Cove was a welcomne sight for residents there. (photo courtesy of SiestaKeyOceanFront.com)

The Highs and Lows of Properties Sold on Siesta Key

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

4001 FLAMINGO AVE.

$12.25 MILLION

Under construction. Experience the majestic, private waterfront setting of this dazzling residence on Siesta Key. Boasting 128 feet of water frontage along Roberts Bay, you’ll delight in a tropical backdrop of sea and sky as you savor the island’s resort lifestyle.

Built by one of the premiere builders in Sarasota, NC Ferguson

Construction, this fully gated home evokes elements of the coast, fusing bayfront elegance with beach-house style.

There’s room for the entire extended family with five bedrooms, four baths, and two half baths. Prepare signature dishes in the open kitchen equipped with state-of-the-art appliances and a dreamy layout for either intimate meals or large-scale

LOWEST-PRICED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE

5218 WINDING WAY

$535,000

This property is ready for a makeover, ripe with opportunity. Build your dream home where most people vacation. Steps from Glebe Park, which offers 10 acres of hiking trails, picnicking facilities, a playground, and basketball, soccer, and baseball facilities. This is the spot you have been looking for!

Courtesy of Keller Williams

entertaining. The host in you will love the beautifully detailed formal dining and living rooms. Spend time with loved ones in the expansive family room where a wealth of doors creates a seamless transition to the impressive pool terrace. Savor relaxing in the downstairs owner’s suite with stunning water views. The outdoor area is a study in waterfront perfection with an Infinity edge pool and spa, separate cabana with fireplace, pool bath, outdoor shower, and an expansive terrace where you can enjoy the soft light of the morning sunrise and vibrant hues of evening sunsets. Enjoy the calm of being on the water from the new dock with a 16,000-pound boat lift with room for additional mooring, and explore beautiful waterways on your boat. A fourcar garage and generator complete the picture.

Courtesy of Compass

LOWEST-PRICED CONDO

6717 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #8

$425,000

Furnished two beds, one bath, great location. Easy access on and off the Key, low maintenance. A one-week rental minimum to provide rental income when not in residence. This condo is in a prime location, with low fees, and a great opportunity to park your car and own your piece of “the rock” -- Siesta Key!

Courtesy of Michael Saunders

HIGHEST-PRICED CONDO

1035 SEASIDE DR., #506

$3.99 MILLION

This is your opportunity to live the ultimate lifestyle in a four-bedroom, three-bath residence featuring over 2,200 square feet of modern luxury. Residence 506 affords you beautiful water views, one large terrace off the main living space to enjoy magical sunsets, and a secondary terrace off your ensuite guest bedroom to enjoy beautiful sunrises. The kitchen features premium, solid wood cabinetry, Wolf & Subzero appliances, gas

cooktop and a wine refrigerator. Additionally, solid-core entry and interior doors, floor-to-ceiling hurricane resistant balcony doors with laminated solar tint glass, sound limiting laminated windows with solar tinted glass, Lutron electric shades throughout, recirculating hot water system for rapid hot water access, high efficiency air conditioning and heating systems, stained, tongue and groove cypress ceilings on terraces, tiled terrace floors, and two covered parking spots.

Courtesy of Coastal Living Real Estate

District 2 commissioner Mark Smith described the cut, “if indeed Gov. DeSantis vetoed the $1 million budgeted for Midnight Pass because of Sen. Gruters’ support for Trump. He’s assuming that the Midnight Pass issue in Sarasota County wouldn’t negatively impact his campaign in the primary, and I’m not sure that’s the case.”

Sarasota County leaders in December proclaimed during their annual retreat that improved

water quality in Little Sarasota Bay would be a priority in 2023, acknowledging that Midnight Pass – closed in the early ‘80s by the county when two homeowners complained their houses were being threatened with the plan to reroute the waterway – would be a focal point in reaching that goal.

Mike Evanoff, chairman of the non-profit Midnight Pass Society II that for two years has served as a community rallying group, hopes all involved will continue to press

ahead despite the setback.

“I’m disappointed that the governor turned his back on this important water-quality issue,” said Evanoff, who has a business in Osprey that sits on Little Sarasota Bay. “We remain steadfast in our support of the county commission … we look forward to working with our local leaders to overcome this political setback.”

Jim Herbert, a leader with the original Midnight Pass Society group that existed between 1984

and 2015, hopes the new support group will continue to provide a big push toward a solution.

“The influential leaders of Midnight Pass Society II are going to have to redouble their efforts to convince the governments on the local, state and federal levels of the importance of this restoration project,” Herbert said.

Sarasota County leaders have yet to decide upon the plan of attack that re-establishes a tidal flow between the Gulf of Mexico

and Little Sarasota Bay. Dredging a navigable path (like the original waterway), installation of an underground pipe, or the creation of a large culvert are among the current considerations.

Midnight Pass Society II will hold a community information event at noon July 8 at The Point Restaurant, 135 Bayview Drive, in Osprey. The business, owned by Evanoff, is located on Little Sarasota Bay.

Above, Midnight Pass has been closed since the early 1980s. Below, how it looked in the 1970s when flowing freely between the Gulf and Little Sarasota Bay, (file photos)

agreement with the county. The settlement agreement states Siesta Beach Lots may apply for a right-of-way use permit for access through Beach Access No. 3.

“The settlement agreement also states that Siesta Beach Lots may apply for all necessary permits to construct a proposed commercial parking lot on Lot 14. The county has not committed to approval of such a proposal, but instead would apply its normal processes for such a proposal, which would include a coastal setback variance and a special exception for the use.

“Finally, the county agrees to continue to work cooperatively with the Sheriff regarding trespass issues associated with

private property along the beach, landward of the mean high-water line.”

Said Holderness, “I’m satisfied with the current settlement because it avoids litigation of the lawsuit for now, and I’m glad the county recognizes my platted access and property rights.

“My No. 1 concern remains public safety, but there is still progress to be made. I am encouraged that we were able to sit down and put this particular lawsuit in the rearview mirror. I remain optimistic that Sarasota County will apply best practices and continue to work with me to ensure a solution that’s best for the public and for private property rights. It does make

good economic and environmental sense for us to find a resolution.

“That being shared, the current situation is clearly unsustainable, and a global resolution must happen soon. I’m available and remain open to discussions with Sarasota County any time asked.”

A global resolution settles all claims against one defendant in a single settlement, rather than individual ones. Regarding Holderness’ interest in

converting Lot 14 into a commercial parking lot, he said in part:

“After speaking with neighbors and valued members of the community, the greater need is parking for slow-moving vehicles. To be clear, the parking discussion does not pertain to the gulf-front lots and only to the most landward lot where the county recently denied its residential use.” He said the parking lot “could allow public access while protecting my private property rights.”

Meanwhile, Holderness said he looks forward to working with the county “to find fair use for the gulf-front lots.”

It’s tarpon time!

Local fishing operation helps you go after the big ones out there

For fishing guide Capt. Brock Horner, the mighty and majestic tarpon is his passion. Known as the silver king for its shimmering skin and large size, mature tarpon can grow up to 8 feet in length, 300 pounds in weight, and can live to be 100 years old.

A celebrity in the world of tarpon fishing who knows the waters of Siesta Key, Horner was featured earlier this year on the Discovery Channel in a

What’s new ... on Siesta Key

By Jane Bartnett

13-part series called In Search of the Largest Tarpon in Florida. A professional guide for the past five years, Horner’s business -- Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters -- is built on years of experience spent on local waters as a competitive tarpon fisherman.

A sixth-generation south Floridian, Horner first discovered tarpon, a fish that is native to Florida’s Gulf Coast and the Caribbean, as a boy while fishing

Take a book, leave a book

Beach readers rejoice. Siesta Key’s latest sharing library is situated mere steps away from Siesta’s famous quartz sand.

The community bookshelf was installed by Dawn Henson, owner of Sunshine & Sand Hidden Treasures gift boutique in Crescent Plaza, just across Midnight Pass Road from the south end of Crescent Beach. It sits in a publicly accessible spot within the shopping plaza.

Henson, who often sells works by local artists as part of her “products with a purpose” initiative, hopes the library will “foster a sense of community, sharing and kindness, which I think we need more of,” she said.

At the very least, the bookshelf offers an easy solution for beachgoers

By Hannah Wallace

in need of reading material. “I know a few people who have [sharing libraries] in their yards and the neighbors love them,” Henson said.

Call them “sharing libraries” or “community bookshelves” or even “Little Free Libraries,” the concept is simple: a weatherproof cubby housing donated books. If you see a book you like inside the box, you’re welcome to take it, and you’re encouraged to leave your own book donation in its place.

(Henson’s sharing library is not currently affiliated with the Little Free Library, a registered nonprofit founded in 2009 and now comprising nearly 100,000 community bookshelves around the world, including two already installed in Siesta neighborhoods.)

While most people abide by the

“take a book, leave a book” practice, there are no official rules to the sharing libraries beyond the honor system. Technically, anyone can take a book even if they have no book to give.

But just as common, it seems, are generous, anonymous donors who stock the libraries full of reading options when no one’s looking. Henson reported one such “book fairy” within a week of her own library’s installation. One night she counted only three books in the cubby; the next morning it was full.

DVDs are also beginning to show up.

“For locals who read it’s a great way to donate and/or get new

Continued on page 14V

with his grandfather.

“My grandfather instilled my passion for tarpon fishing at an early age and now I’m passing it on to my 7-year-old son. He caught his first tarpon in January at 6 years old,” said the proud dad. “Tarpons are incredibly strong. As they jump out of the air, it’s an awesome show.”

Continued on page 7V

Happiness Is…The Joys of Summer

The warm sun kisses your skin, the laughter of children fills the air, the cool ocean water laps at your toes. Summer is here, and it’s time to celebrate with fireworks and the quintessential tradition that brings joy to all - ICE CREAM!

At Abel’s Ice Cream, we believe that nothing captures the essence of summer in America quite like the timeless classics. Picture yourself savoring a scoop of our award-winning smooth and creamy Vanilla ice cream, crafted with the finest ingredients to create a taste that is truly exceptional. Or perhaps

you’re in the mood for a refreshing treat that pays homage to the South—our luscious Peach ice cream, brimming with juicy peaches that would make any Southerner proud.

But our ice cream adventure doesn’t stop there. Step into our air-conditioned store and treat yourself to your favorite cup or cone, or why not indulge in the ultimate summer delight—a mouthwatering banana split? And for those looking to quench their thirst with a cool, creamy beverage, our selection of handcrafted shakes offers flavors to satisfy every craving.

The team at Abel’s Ice Cream is excited to celebrate our nation’s independence with you. As we serve up the best ice cream in town, we invite you to create cherished memories with loved ones, one delightful scoop at a time. So, join us in embracing the spirit of summer and indulge yourself with a sweet treat today!

Abel’s is located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, Sarasota in the South Bridge Plaza. Open Sunday through Thursday from Noon-9:30 pm, and Friday and Saturday from Noon-10 pm. Learn more at www. abelscecream.com or connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.

Capt. Brock Horner and client Alex Bernard show off a tarpon she landed in waters off Siesta Key. (submitted photo).

Dawn Henson with her sharing library in Crescent Plaza.

(photo by John Morton)

The largest on the water Bait & Tackle Shop in Sarasota offering Siesta Key Boat Rentals, Parasailing, Jet Ski Rentals, and Fishing Charters. See our ad on page

Outdoor Waterfront Dining!

$22

Sea Scallops … $22

Shrimp and Seafood Au Gratin … $16

Fisherman Platter … $32

Baby Back Ribs … $24

Orange Pecan Chicken … $16

Filet Mignon … $24

Filet Mignon & Stuffed Shrimp … $34

Filet Mignon & Maine Lobster Tail … $48

Stuffed Shrimp & Maine Lobster Tail … $42

Twin Maine Lobster Tails … $54

FRIED SEAFOOD PLATTERS

Coconut Shrimp … $22

Large Gulf Shrimp … $20

Fish & Chips … $19

Fried Combo … $28

PASTA & BOWLS

Shrimp & Crab Scampi … $24

Salmon Pasta … $21

Chicken & Shrimp Curry … $21

Sweet ‘n Spicy Chicken & Shrimp … $22

Pasta Primavera … $16

DESSERTS

Turtle Pie … $9

Key Lime Pie … $9

Sample Platter … $12

Ice Cream Bar … $6

*Prices subject to change

Arts on the Horizon

They lived at Ca’ d’Zan before John and Mable Ringling did

Who specifically? Hard to tell, but during a period of a few thousand years a number of Native American tribes (Muscogee, Calusa, Seminole, etc.) lived along Sarasota Bay (or whatever it was called back then).

They did not claim any specific spot as being theirs alone, as there was more land than people back then. Plus, they were not into owning “things” quite the way the current locals are.

Go to Mt. Vernon and you will see a plaque stating that George Washington was born on that “property.” Visit Amherst, Massachusetts and saunter through Emily Dickinson’s birthplace and see the window through which she viewed her father’s “property,” and the plaque which proclaims it as belonging to her family.

Not owning, but simply living upon a certain piece of “property” still connects one to that land, since it had been home.

Reclaiming Home: Contemporary Seminole Art is the plaque at the Ringling Museum which shows the artistic talents of the Seminole and other tribes’ art through Sept. 4. As the old saying states, “Home is where the art is.”

And speaking of art, what is art? Some say, “the representation of something truly beautiful.” But if the representation is beautiful, what about the original beautiful thing -- isn’t that art as well? Lorna Bieber, in an earlier life as a photo editor, saw thousands of pictures of beautiful things. As an artist she has taken and manipulated bits of many, many images, remixing them with copy machines onto fabric and then taking small fragments and weaving them together into giant wall-hangings. Seems like beauty can be transformed as well as being transformative. An early work, Tapestry (2015), along with two newer ones, Ordinary Day (2019) and Quiet Night (2022), will also be on display through Oct. 15. More info at Ringling.org.

By Rodger Skidmore

Too darn hot

“Too Darn Hot” was the name of a song written by Cole Porter for his hit musical Kiss Me Kate, which appeared on Broadway back in 1948, and which was also featured in the 1953 film of the same name. Since HOT is how Sarasota might feel toward the end of July, we must be prepared. Yes, now is the time to tune up the air conditioner and to check the icemaker in the fridge, but perhaps also time to make sure all passports are up-to-date and to book a flight to England, where it is bound to be a bit cooler.

London will be a real cool place to be if you are a ballet aficionado, as there will be big things happening in that world -– especially if you, throughout the years, have been following the best of Cuban ballet.

Carlos Acosta trained with the National Ballet School of Havana, won the Prix de Lausanne in 1990, danced with London’s Royal Ballet and retired from actively dancing after 28 years. After touring with his own company Acosta Danza for four years, he became director of the Birmingham Royal Ballet in 2020.

And July 26 through 30, Acosta will be starring in Carlos at 50 at London’s Royal Opera House. More specifically, on opening night, he, along with guest artists from The London Royal Ballet, Birmingham Royal Ballet and Acosta Danza, will be performing for you – if you join a select group of ballet fans that will be flying over during the special Sarasota Cuban Ballet School London Tour, from July 25 through 28. In addition to a center orchestra seat on the 26th, you would be meeting with Carlos Acosta during a welcoming reception and pre-show dinner, attend another special SCBS event at the Royal Opera House, have hotel accommodations, and receive a tax deduction on a donation to the Sarasota Cuban Ballet School.

The connection? Carlos Acosta and Ariel Serrano, artistic director of the SCBS, trained together in Havana and have been close friends ever since. How close? Carlos serves as an advisory board member of the SCBS. For more info, contact Barbara Worth at SCBS.

Barbara@gmail.com.

Late July marks the end of the SCBS Summer Intensive, where ballet students who auditioned, were accepted, received exceptional training, and now perform at their highest level, are showing their wares the afternoon of the 22nd. They should be watched and applauded.

That same evening, the SCBS presents On Stage 2023: Coppélia. This full-scale production of the delightful tale of a mad inventor and the life-like doll he creates is directed by Ariel Serrano and Wilmian Hernández, co-founders of the SCBS. Tickets for both these presentations at the Sarasota Opera House are available at Tickets.sarasotaopera. org/6500/6501.

What’s cookin’

What time are you having your barbecue on the Fourth of July – under the broiling hot afternoon sun or later in the hot and muggy evening? Either way, it might be a good idea to break up your celebration of Independence Day by going to the Sarasota Opera House (it’s air conditioned) at 4:30 p.m.

There you can continue your celebration

All Roads Lead to Made in Rome Organic Gelato on Siesta Key!

Thank you to all of our costumers from Paola, Sierra, Kylie, Taylor, Anna, Stefania, Giada, Alexis, Alice, Sage, Emma, Anna and Nora. And, of course, Diane & Massimo say grazie to all of our costumers and staff!

by listening to the Choral Artists of Sarasota perform a suite of beloved American songs along with acapella renderings of famous words, originally proclaimed by famous people, and which remind us of our many freedoms.

“You’re a Grand Old Flag” was the George M. Cohen song memorialized in the 1942 film Yankee Doodle Dandy, which starred James Cagney. Cagney was an actor who could really strut his stuff, which he did to great acclaim in the movie, tap dancing up and down the steps of our nation’s capital. Uplifting words by Condoleezza Rice, Michelle Obama, Laura Bush, and others, are all sung with meaning by the Choral Artists of Sarasota, led by Dr. Joseph Holt.

On the same program The Lakewood Ranch Wind Ensemble, Joe Miller directing, brings meaning to the phrase, “Words alone cannot express … ” by playing with its signature pageantry and true esprit de corps, a colossal salute to America – to its dual seas, ending with a final overture – the 1812.

The musicians, besides being an ensemble, are also an assemblage, playing together as the LRWE and individually in 14 other performing groups throughout the concert season. Info at Choralartistssarasota.org.

If the cannons of the “1812 Overture” are to your liking you’ll get a bang out of the Siesta Key Fourth of July fireworks, which kickoff at around 9:15 p.m. on Siesta Key’s famous beach. A different set of blooming, glittering, earthshaking sky bombs and rockets will be set off downtown about the same time, with excellent views from Bayfront Park.

Bring your own chairs, blankets and whatever, to either location. While parking atop the Ringling Causeway Bridge might give spectacular views, it is somewhat frowned upon by attendant authorities. Better to watch from the ground, various condo windows, or from atop the upper floors and penthouses along Gulfstream Avenue.

The sound of fireworks reverberating through the newly built canyons of Sarasota will sound like the CGI special effects in The Fast and the Furious XXIII.

5204 Ocean Blvd. in Siesta Key Village

Diane

Owner Diane Theron-Cuna invites you to watch the process as she creates a batch of her sinfully delicious gelato from scratch every 15 minutes.

“We are very proud and happy each day. to be here on Siesta Key,” says Theron-Cuna.

If you’re lucky enough to catch Theron-Cuna at the shop, she will happily entertain you with stories of her earlier days as a circus performer. She comes from three generations of circus entertainers and has traveled around the world performing with the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus.

The family earned their own “Star of Fame” at St. Armands CircleThe Theron Cycling Troupe.

Sage

Kylie

Giada, Anna & Alexis

Sierra & Paola

Taylor & Stephania Anna Nora

Alice Emma

Florida Fish

Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Forecast

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters (941) 923-7799

Notes from the Island Fishmonger

Welcome to Softshell Crab 101

Tarpon should be plentiful in the coastal gulf this month as big schools of fish migrate along our beaches. Also look for cobia, tripletail and false albacore (little tunny) in the coastal gulf. Catch-and-release snook fishing should also be good in and around passes and in the surf. Fishing should also be good on deep grass flats for a variety of species. As schools of fish increase in size and numbers, tarpon fishing will benefit. The schools will head off shore to spawn close to new and full moons. Set up in travel lanes along the beach at first light in the morning and cast live crabs, baitfish, DOA Baitbusters and Swimming Mullet to them. I travel well offshore along the beach in the morning to avoid disturbing schools of tarpon that may be traveling close to the beach. Once you’ve reached the area you intend to fish, ease into the beach with an electric trolling motor and set up in your spot. You can anchor or drift, depending on conditions. Give other anglers several hundred yards of space. Since fish may be moving both north and south, setting up too close to another angler may negatively affect their fishing. Tarpon fishing is very dependent on conditions and there are a lot of variables that need to come together to be successful.

Use tackle heavy enough to land them as quickly as possible. When fly fishing, I use 12-weight rods and large arbor reels capable of holding 300 yards or more of backing. I use a variety of baitfish, shrimp or crab fly patterns fished on floating fly lines. The shallower the water, the easier it is to get your fly in front of a fish when fly fishing. Stake out or anchor in travel lanes to get shots at them.

When spin fishing, I usually drift a couple of live baits under a float while we wait for tarpon schools to pass by. Blind casting with DOA Baitbusters or Swimming Mullet, if you’re in the right spot, can also be productive when fish are moving past you but not showing well on the surface. The CAL 4-inch Shad Tail/Swimbait with a heavy weedless hook is also be a good tarpon bait, especially when sight fishing.

Regulations have returned to normal for reds and snook in Sarasota. Spotted seatrout have changed in southwest Florida to a three-fish-per-person bag limit and a six-fish boat limit. Trout must be from 15 inches 19 inches with one allowed per vessel larger than 19 inches. In my opinion it’s important to protect larger trout, which are usually female breeders. Full regulations and details for all species can be viewed at myfwc.com.

You should find snook in the surf, in passes and around docks and bridges in the Intracoastal Waterway near passes. You can walk the beach and sight fish them in the surf with fly or spinning tackle. Small baitfish fly patterns, CAL jigs with shad tails, and jerk worms or DOA shrimp should all work well. The same lures and flies that work in the surf will also work well at night. Snook will congregate in passes around the new and full moons to spawn. They will usually be in deep channels in these areas. Bouncing a DOA TerrorEyz or Baitbuster in bridge channels or passes can be an effective technique in these areas. Fishing for reds should also be good this month. Look for them over shallow grass along mangrove shorelines or around oyster bars when the tide is high. You’ll find them in potholes or edges of flats when the tide is low. Top water plugs will work well, especially early in the day. I like to cover water with CAL jigs and shad tails or jerk worms to find them. Fly anglers should score with baitfish fly patterns like my Grassett Flats Minnow.

There are lots of options in inshore waters or the coastal gulf this month. If pulling on a 100-pound tarpon isn’t for you, fishing pressure is usually light inshore this month so snook, reds, trout and more should also be good options.

Oneof the sweetest, tender and mouthwatering foods in the world is the white succulent meat from a crab. Sometimes you’ve got work for it but a mouth full of butter-dipped crab meat can be one of the better things in life.

As of May 1, us Floridians said goodbye to our beloved stone crabs and in July we say hello to the southern softshell crab. The end of a good crab season is always disappointing but it is not the end of the world. When one crab season ends, another begins. On the west coast from Seattle to Vancouver, the Dungeness crab season is now open. In Alaska, snow crab and king crab are king.

As the stone crab traps come to shore, they will be replaced by the buoy of the blue crab traps that will be strategically placed in our waters. Unlike in Maryland, these swimming crabs are a tough catch in Florida as blue crabs are not overly abundant to this area. It’s estimated that one-third of the nation’s catch of blue crabs comes from the Chesapeake Bay area.

One thing we have learned at the Big Water Fish Market is that a discussion that compares crab cakes with Maryland folk is a losing battle.

I have spent many afternoons or evenings picking away at blue crabs. If you have ever picked through the calcified shell of a blue crab in search of tender meat, you know that it’s hard work but it’s fun and worth it. That’s why I get excited when the weather warms up and the southern cities like Charleston, South Carolina and New Orleans, and Gulfport deliver a bumper crop of floppy softshell crabs that are my favorite.

Now, the softshell crab is a meal. You eat the whole crab and every bite explodes with crab juiciness. Softshell crabs are blue crabs harvested right after they shed their exoskeletons; once they have busted out of their old shells, replacements begin to grow. And the new shell will begin to harden within hours. The trick to harvesting soft shells is catch them in the transitional stage. Fishermen typically capture the crabs before they molt and hold them in cages in the sea or salter tanks instead of scouring the ocean. As soon as the crabs drop their shells they are removed from the water, which stops a new skeleton from hardening.

All softshell crabs will come from your local retail fish counter, either fresh or frozen. Most soft shells are frozen within minutes after being removed from the water and cleaned. If you’re lucky enough to find actual fresh, live softshell crabs, that’s the way to go. Live crabs should still be moving and smell like an ocean breeze. Any good fish monger can clean your fresh crabs for you in a matter of minutes. A few snips with a pair of scissors and your crab will be ready for this delicious southern fried softshell crab recipe:

• Dip your cleaned softshell crabs in an egg wash.

• Then dip and coat with breaded mixture of flour, creole seasoning and salt and pepper.

• Pour oil an inch deep into a heavy frying pan. Heat to 350 degrees.

• Fry the breaded crab for 4 to5 minutes, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 135 degrees.

• Remove from oil and place on a plate lined with paper towel to dry.

• Sprinkle with creole seasoning, salt and pepper to taste.

• Serve over grits, salad, veggies, or create the oh-so-popular softshell crab sandwich.

These crabs are a low-calorie, low-fat source of clean protein. On average they contain about 500mg of Omega-3 fatty acids per 3.5 ounces of meat, making them a delicious and healthy option for seafood lovers.

Clark Keator of Orlando takes on a tarpon with a fly. (submitted photo).

Key Employee

Michelle

A parking lot enforcement employee who is always smiling? That’s what you can expect with Michelle, who works for Palm Parking in Davidson Plaza in the Village.

“Why shouldn’t people feel a friendly welcome when they visit? I work in a gorgeous place, so that’s what they’re going to get,” said Michelle, a Siesta Key resident who has held the job for four years.

When things are slow, she enjoys feeding the birds and squirrels from under the large tree that she calls home when some shade is needed.

Michelle also enjoys directing people toward fun things to do and great spots to dine and socialize. She especially likes pointing people toward Siesta Beach. What does she hear most often from visitors to the lot?

“They say, ‘Hey, it used to be free here,’” Michelle said. “Well, unfortunately, nothing is free anymore. Especially near a beach.”

Sun Garden Cafe recognizes the impact that quality workers can have on a business, and is proud to sponsor the Key Employee each month. The community appreciates it.

Congratulations, Michelle!

Your dedication has resulted in a gift certificate for breakfast for four at Sun Garden Cafe, located at 210 Avenida Madera in the heart of the Village.

Photos by John Morton

Tarpon fishing

A U.S. Army Ranger paratrooper veteran, Horner served in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. “Right after 9-11, I enlisted in the Army. I was 17 and a junior in high school,” he said. “I went into active duty the next year after I finished high school and graduated.”

A Wounded Warrior alumnus, Horner is a graduate of Florida Gulf Coast University.

Fishermen and fisherwomen from around the world come from as far away as New Zealand, Mexico, Europe, Asia, and all parts of the United States to fish with Horner and realize their dream of catching one of these stunning fish. They travel home with a memory that will last a lifetime and coveted photos of their catch.

Speaking of his diverse clients, Horner noted that 70% are women. During the course of a year, he said, about 150 tarpon outings are made up of women anglers.

It was in the waters off Siesta Key about five years ago, Horner recalled, that a woman angler from the Northeast landed a nearrecord-breaking 280-pound female tarpon.

“The world record is 286 pounds,” he said. “It was a Siesta catch. We were off the Big Pass sandbar and it took two-and-a-half hours in 3 feet of water” to bring it in.

When the battle between angler and tarpon is concluded and the fish has been reeled in, Horner takes over. Trophy photos are taken of the angler and the tarpon in the water. As Florida law requires, Horner cradles the tarpon in the water, allowing it to rest

Continued from page 1V

and breathe. Once he is confident that the tarpon has regained its strength and is breathing normally, he allows it to swim away.

Tarpon are found in the warm waters off Siesta Key mostly from April through June. May and June, Horner reports, are prime tarpon fishing months. In the latter summer months, the tarpon head north to the Florida Panhandle to spawn. The majority of tarpon that he encounters are females travelling in schools. They are generally larger and older than the males.

“The females know where the predators are and avoid the sharks,” he said. “The young males tend to hang out where the sharks are.”

The plentiful food that the young males enjoy while swimming with the sharks is often their undoing.

“The females are smarter,” Horner said.

Horner picks up his clients by boat on Siesta Key and at other locations depending on where the tarpons are and where his clients are staying.

“I’m one of the only tarpon fishermen who fishes only for tarpon. I’m on the water 365 days a year. I follow the tarpon as they move around. I study their patterns and movements,” he said.

His boat, a 25-foot 2500 Pathfinder Hybrid, has a fourstroke 300 Yamaha outboard engine. A stable vessel, it allows Horner to navigate into shallow waters. A tower on the boat gives Horner the ability to spot tarpon in the distance.

“Our fishing equipment is the finest in the industry and we use custom saltwater rods with Shimano Stella Reels,” he stated.

Horner books eight-, 10-, and 12-hour days. The rate for an eighthour day is $1,600, a 10-hour day is $2,000, and a 12-hour day is $2,400.

The boat can accommodate groups of up to five people and families are welcome. All

bookings include bait, rods, reels tackle, cooler and fishing licenses. Currently, he is booking day trips for October and November.

Reach Horner directly on his cell phone at (941) 822-5908 or visit tarponcoastfishing.com.

Capt. Brock Horner shows off some of his tarpon treasures. His Tarpon Coast Fishing Charters business will pick up clients along Siesta Key. (submitted photos)

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

Island Chatter

Survey available for plan to upgrade Siesta sports courts

Sarasota County is upgrading the pickleball and tennis court area at Siesta Beach, and your input is being sought. Help the county shape this project by taking just a couple of minutes to complete a quick survey. Your feedback

Take the survey by visiting: bit. ly/SiestaBeachSurvey.

Grand Canal regeneration continues to thrive

The 50/50 program involving the regeneration of Siesta Key’s 9-mile Grand Canal resulted in a big success, project organizer Jean Cannon reports.

Thanks to an anonymous donation of $35,000, residents with docks were able to purchase mini reefs for $169. On a single day in

Continued from page 5V

May, 86 mini reefs were installed on the island, Cannon said, with 70 of them being placed in the Siesta Isles community.

A total of 217 mini reefs were sold during the special offer, and after the next round of installs the total number in the canal will exceed 480.

The mini reefs filter as much as 30,000 gallons of water per day, and create a habitat that produces as many as 300 fish and 200 crabs per year.

“We’ve also noticed, during this install, an increase in juvenile fish around the older reefs,” Cannon said. “These older reefs have been in the water for three years.”

Furthermore, a “Sounds of the Mini Reef” underwater video has been created by the project team’s Becky Seiner and Phil Chiocchio, highlighting life below the docks where the mini reefs are present.

Island Chatter

To view the video, visit youtu.be/ UarSh3B8Niw.

“The team was amazed by the sounds we discovered coming from the oysters, shrimp and clams beneath our feet,” Cannon said.

No SKA meeting in July

The Siesta Key Association civic group will not be holding a July meeting.

The next meeting is Thursday, Aug. 3, at 4:30 p.m. in the community room at St. Boniface Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Rd. Visit SiestaKeyAssociation.com for more information.

Continued on next page

Beach access mat is restored, is now 50 feet longer

The Siesta Beach access mat was recently restored and now includes 504 feet of runway, Sarasota County reports.

The new mat (which is 50 feet longer than the previous mat) is intended to be a non-slip, heat-resistant and stable rollout

pathway, perfect for wheelchairs and other mobility assistive devices. In fact, the mat provides beach access to an average of 200,000 users per month. Next time you’re there, post up on one of the four wings attached to the mat or explore the beach by renting a free beach wheelchair available at the concessions

Midnight Pass Society II community event is July 8

A community event where leaders of the Midnight Pass Society II group will give updates on the possible restoration of Midnight Pass, and how to volunteer in the effort, will be held at noon July 8 at The Point restaurant, 131 Bayview Drive, in Osprey.

Midnight Pass is the former waterway that ran between Siesta Key and Casey Key.

County’s summer/fall recreation guide is available

Looking for recreation opportunities in Sarasota County?

Or are you interested in learning about the county’s natural areas?

View the Summer/Fall Events and Activities Guide now at: bit. ly/3VoxBVu.

Paw Pals

Meet Oliver

He’s a 1-year-old, 82-pound sheepadoodle. He enjoys chewing on what he’s not supposed to be chewing, and his owner also reports that Oliver is quite the actor when he’s in trouble:

One day, when caught standing on the kitchen table with a juicy steak within reach, he literally froze and stared straight ahead, as if to think such a tactic would prevent him from being noticed.

Best of all, he’s a good buddy to the three kids in the house.

(Submit your Paw Pal to the Siesta Sand at info@27statemedia.com.)

KEY COCKTAILS

HAPPY HOUR 4pm-6:30pm Happy Hour Food & Cocktails

MONDAY PRIX-FIXE MENU

3 Course Menu for $25 — Every Monday

OPA WEDNESDAY!

Blueberry Coconut Sparkler

Celebrate the Fourth of July all month long with Siesta Key Rum’s Blueberry Coconut Sparkler cocktail! It’s the perfect way to toast the mid-summer.

Enjoy this delicious, cool, easyto-make cocktail at home or out on the town on Siesta Key.

A sparkling, light and refreshing concoction, the Blueberry Coconut Sparkler is made with Siesta Key Toasted Coconut Rum.

A delectable mix of blueberry and coconut flavors, with a hint of lemon and sparkling ginger ale, this is a cocktail recipe that you’ll want to keep in your favorites file.

Ingredients

½ Cup Siesta Key Toasted Coconut Rum

3 Cups fresh Blueberries

2½ Cups Ginger Ale

3 Tbsp Lemon Juice Coconut Flakes (optional garnish)

4 Servings

Preparation

Muddle the blueberries in a bowl. Add the lemon juice and Siesta Key Toasted Coconut Rum. Stir until well combined. Using a fine mesh strainer, strain the mixture and discard the blueberry skins. Add the ginger ale and gently stir until combined. Rim glasses with coconut flakes (optional) and add ice.

GIFT CERTIFICATES AVAILABLE

DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE

With our map on the next page you’ll be able to navigate your way to our featured shops with ease.

The Shop SRQ (G-2) offers flat-tops, fades, tapers, blowouts, razor cuts, and straight razor shaves. Owners, Erick and Dawn use a back to basics approach to grooming with a precise attention to personal detail.

Their commitment to excellence has provided them with many loyal customers. They welcome the opportunity to earn your trust. Hours: Tues. – Fri. 8:30am – 6pm, Sat., 8:30am –3pm. Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Gulf Gate Barber Shop (G-7) has been an institution in the community for years, owned by Kyle Flannery. The super-clean barbershop’s clientele is comprised of primarily men, but the shop services children as well. Scott Reich, formerly of the Siesta Key Village Barber Shop has relocated to this location.

West End Pub (G-49) Where else can you watch your favorite game with a great selection of beers, wines and liquors served by a friendly staff AND where you’re allowed to bring your own restaurant or deli food? Right here. 6500 Gateway Ave. 941-554-8905.

Tony’s Chicago Beef Company (S-16) is owned and operated by true Chicagoans. Dedicated to deliver Chicago’s best food - Chicago style Hot Dogs wit’ the works...dragged through the garden on poppy seed buns with fresh cut fries, Italian Beef Sandwiches anyway you like, dipped or dry, sweet or hot. All served in true Authentic Chicago Style.

Solórzano’s Late Night Pizzeria (S-34): 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

Realty

941-924-2330

Working with Sarasota Buyers & Sellers since 1969

• Local Expertise • Proven Track Record • Happy Clients

Condos, Villas, Single Family Homes & Investments

We are with you every step of the way!

2621 Mall Dr., Sarasota

RobertsRealty@comcast.net www.SarasotaCoast.com

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., 941924-5800.

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. - Thurs.) open until 2 a.m. (Fri & Sat.).

Roberts Realty, Inc. (M-5) John Garner, Broker Assoc. & Diane Shane, Broker Assoc. have a combined 40 years’ experience in Sarasota of making dreams come true for our clients. For buyers, we have had great success in finding the right property for our clients because we listen closely to their wants and needs and matching that as close as possible. For sellers, over the years we have successfully listed and sold 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.

Zuzu’s & Moondoggy’s (GG26, GG25) Ready for an evening out?

Choose from Zuzu’s -- an exotic Polynesian top shelf cocktail lounge where you can dress to impress and enjoy cocktails with friends, or Moondoggy’s -- a fun surfing-theme atmosphere where you can chill and have fun. Located at 2234-2236 Gulf Gate Drive, Zuzu’s & Moondoggy’s has 13 big screen TV’S, MLB Package, ACC, BIG10, SEC, NFL Package, pool table, SUPER CHEXX BUBBLE HOCKEY and a punching bag! Zuzu’s is open 12:00 PM – 2:30 AM daily. Moondoggy’s is open 7AM – 2:30AM daily.

Scandinavian Gifts Baked Goods and Grocery (GG-37) A fixture in Sarasota for 32 years, Scandinavian Gifts offers an assortment of linens, glassware, cookbooks, jewelry, candles, food items, and Christmas collectibles. Located at 2166 Gulf Gate Drive, the store is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The Skinny Dip (G-26) Established in 2020. The Sarasota Skinny Dip location is a family-owned business, with husband-and-wife Alex and Sorelly, and their kiddos, Sophie and Noah. The business specializes in letting you make your frozen yogurt the way you want it! We specialize in Skinny8 Froyos, which are only 8 calories per once! Also available vegan and low-fat options so that all Dippers can, well, dip!

Apothecary Shoppe (S-6) Eric and Laurie’s knowledge of pharmaceuticals and natural/holistic remedies enables the safe integration of traditional and natural therapies. Their organic skincare line is compounded on site by Laurie who started her career as a make-up artist for the Today Show, Saturday Night Live, and so many more. Eric is a pharmacist and also certified in naturopathy, wanting the best natural options for his clients. Open M-F 10-5 pm, Sat 10-3 pm.

White ibis (Eudocimus albus)

The ibis is one of the many long-legged, long-billed wading birds often congregating around Siesta Key’s estuaries, mangroves, and wetlands. This adult specimen’s normally orangey-pink legs and bill have ignited into a fiery red with some black-out accents during breeding season. As a general rule, vibrant colorations help the birds catch the eye of a potential mate.

In chatty groups, ibises are content to stroll through fresh, brackish, or salt water up to 8 inches deep with a certain nonchalance. The graceful decurved bill probes below the water’s surface to snatch hidden insects, crayfish, crabs, and small fish.

Upon contact, the bill snaps shut to pinch the prey like a tweezer. While many morsels (like this minnow) are swallowed on the spot, the really muddy items are carried to the shore to wash off the mud before eating.

The ibis is known for both its sociable and territorial nature. Community foraging, flying, and nesting habits counterbalance the fierce, even violent, rivalry among males who protect their nest, their mate, and their honor.

Jan Baumgartner’s handmade notecards are available at Sunshine & Sand Hidden Treasures, 6635 Midnight Pass Rd., in Crescent Plaza.

John Garner Broker Associate Diane Shane Broker Associate Roberts

Fishmonger

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It is a fact that Alaskan snow crab legs are cooked at sea where they are caught to protect their flavor, then flash frozen and shipped all around the world. For those of you that don’t consider frozen crab legs fresh, maybe you should check out the process of flash freezing online and see how it preserves the crab better than any other method.

Crabs are one of, if not the, most sustainable sources of seafood in Florida due to the way they are harvested. There’s nothing that brings familia together anywhere in the world more than a good ol’ crab boil. Whether it’s snow crab, king crab, or Dungeness from the Pacific northwest, or our local Florida stone crab,

Bookshelf

people have a craving for crabs and it will tantalize our taste-buds for an eternity.

Henceforth, forget the opinion that no crab legs in the area are fresh just because they’re brought in frozen. Any crab is still one of the richest in flavor and most succulent delicacies of the sea.

Live well and eat crab!

BigWaterFishMarket.com

6641 Midnight Pass Rd. Crescent Plaza Siesta Key

-- Scott Dolan

* Fresh housemade pasta

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reading material while helping our neighbors and visitors alike,” she said. The “feel good” part of the donation matters as much as getting a free book — if not more.

Like all good grassroots projects, many sharing libraries flourish with the attention from immediate neighbors — people who live or work within a few blocks of them.

But at Crescent Plaza, which also houses popular spots like Toasted Mango Café, Big Water Fish Market, and Pizza N’ Brew, Henson hopes the beach-adjacent location

will be especially convenient for visitors from anywhere and everywhere.

Henson specifically envisioned people who’ve finished their vacation reads and find themselves in need of additional reading material. “Many arrive with a fully packed suitcase, so adding more books isn’t always an option they want to take,” she said. The library lets them “pay” for a new book with the old one. And as an added bonus their suitcase won’t be any heavier on the trip home.

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