Siesta Sand (section 2) - June 2024

‘It’s completely our store now’

By Jane Bartnett

Live globally but shop locally.

That’s the essence of what led Erica Schmid and Nicholas Browne to open their Casa del Sol Boutique at 5221 Ocean Ave. in Siesta Key Village.

Filled with clothing, accessories and special items meant for enjoying the sun, the beach and island life, the couple are looking forward to celebrating the boutique’s first anniversary in June.

“We have a wonderful blend of brands imported from Australia, Portugal, Thailand and Mexico,” said Schmid.

“And a number of lines made in Florida, Hawaii and here in America,” said Browne. Added Schmid, “We try to be different

than the rest of the Key.”

The designs and aesthetic of the store exudes a relaxed, welcoming and sophisticated bohemian seaside vibe. It reflects the pair’s international travel and interests. Both taught English as a second language while living in Vietnam in a small beach town called Hoi An. He also taught English in Costa Rica and China.

Browne’s photographs from their travels dot the walls and the music is carefully curated. He is a south Florida native from the Miami/Fort Lauderdale area and Schmid grew up near Long Beach Island on the New Jersey coast. They met as students at Eckerd College in St. Petersburg.

Looking back, it almost seems Casa del Sol was destined to be, Schmid said. Her best college friend at Eckerd was the daughter of Susan Balas, who owned the landmark Beach Bazaar store as well as the Island Trader boutique. After graduation, Balas hired Schmid as swimwear buyer for both stores, which she did for several years.

Schmid took a year away from the Key to teach English in Vietnam with Browne until COVID-19 led them both back to Siesta Key.

“We started working with Sue again on Beach Bazaar’s online presence and doing more

Continued on page 13V

Munchies to bring on even more mojo

New owner of Gulf Gate classic fires up some new features

By Jane Bartnett

“A little more chill, Munchies style.” That’s how Munchies 420 Cafe owner John Kirk, who recently took ownership of the 22-year-old Gulf Gate landmark, describes the way things are being done now. It will still be the place to go for a fun night out and the favored restaurant bar when a latenight craving for munchies hits long after dark, he said assuredly. Appropriately enough, on April 20 — or to state it numerically, 4/20 — an estimated 1,500 of Munchies’ longtime fans along with a whole new crowd came out to celebrate the debut of the updated establishment, located at 6639 Superior Ave. The party, dubbed Munchiesfest 2024, started in the afternoon with live music, games,

raffles,and food served in the Tiki Bar, at the ample main bar, and in the dining area. As the day turned into evening, the crowds grew. The party went well into the night.

“Munchies 420 Cafe is an iconic brand,” said Kirk. “I’m a serial entrepreneur.”

One who has brought some significant improvements.

“We came in and gave the place a fresh coat of paint, new furniture, a state-of-the-art sound system, new signs and 15 televisions carrying sporting events,” Kirk said. “We’ve also added table service. It’s no longer a do-it-yourself place. The host meets you at the desk and seats you.”

Continued on page 10V

Left, A Munchies customer chats with owner John Kirk at Munchiesfest, opening day. (Jane Bartnett photo)

Right, Customers enjoyed the new large screen TVs in Munchies 420 Cafe Tiki Bar

BRUNCH by the

BEACH

E V E R Y S U N D A 1 1 : 0 0 A M T O 1

O C E A N B L V A S O T A , F L 3 4 t h e b i g t i k i l o u n g e . c o m

Arts on the Horizon

Stranger things

What’s strange to me (a peanut butter and sardine ice cream cone) may seem quite normal to you – if that is what your mother served you as a child. And most every neighborhood in America celebrates Halloween with jack-O’lanterns hanging in windows for weeks before the actual day arrives. In the Halloween season, that’s normal.

But what about the snatching season? Maybe that’s not your cup of tea.

But, if year after year, neighborhood kids have been disappearing, then maybe the snatching season becomes the norm. That’s why, in the community along Odella Creek, they have a curfew so that all the children are off the street before they are … snatched.

This story about strange happenings is not just a story, or even just a horror story, it is a Southern Gothic horror story – the best kind. Does the snatching creature creep up behind unsuspecting young ones, or does it, like the Pied Piper of Hamlin, just do a little enticing?

Yes, strange things are happening at the Urbanite Theatre from now until June 30, in this world premiere play entitled Oak (maybe why you’ve not yet heard of it) by Terry Guest.

More info at urbanitetheatre.com.

The Fourth of July comes in … July, but the 4 of June are coming to the Florida Studio Theatre this June. The first is a Kander and Ebb musical revue, The World Goes ‘Round, featuring songs from a number of their shows: Cabaret, Zorba, Chicago, etc. and, of course, Flora, The Red Menace, which starred Liza Minnelli. The singers and dancers of this revue will run through their repertoire June 5 through 30 at the Gompertz.

Glen Campbell had a hit back in ’75 with “Rhinestone Cowboy.” Well, ol’ Glen isn’t with us anymore but the Goldstein Cabaret will be hosting, fresh from an extended tour in southern Alaska, Rhinestone Cowgirls through July 28. These three ladies will be taking you on a tour of country music, from its very beginnings to today, featuring songs made famous by Patsy Cline, Tammy Wynette, Loretta Lynn and Carrie Underwood.

By Rodger Skidmore

Want a bit of rock with your folk and country music? Then The Music of Laurel Canyon is the show you’ll want to see at the Court Cabaret June 18 through Aug. 25. The band Buffalo Rome, providing the alt-country music behind the lyrics, is closer to Buffalo Springfield, the Byrds, and the Doors than they are to Hank Williams or Dolly Parton. But then, these differences are what makes the world go ‘round.

Bowne’s Lab is the scene, through the 28th, where you will direct FST’s improv group in Directors Cut, as it reconstructs, alter, maim, and “laughterfy” some of Hollywood’s greatest (you pick them) comedies, mysteries and horror films.

Info at floridastudiotheatre.org.

Prometheus unbound

Shelley’s most famous work, in four acts, was a lyrical drama. Well, music itself can be lyrical, dramatic, romantic, stark, and/or melodic. So, yes, Music Unbound is an apt title for this year’s Sarasota Music Festival, running through the 22nd of the month. And one would have to be running to keep up with the 13 concerts and one lecture that will be coming our way. The available music can be a “pick-and-choose” kind of feast, or an all-you-can-hear musical buffet.

The concert that begins the month, June 2 at Holley Hall, is titled New Beginnings and begins with a 300-yearold work by Français Couperin, Le Rossignol en amour –not to be confused with Manning Sherwin’s Un rossignol a chanté à Berkeley Square. Jeffrey Kahane, on harpsichard, accompanies Marianne Gedigian, whose flute shimmers with melodic bird-like sounds.

Works by Martinů, Cornish, and Arensky soon follow. Music from the 1920s (Ravel’s Violin Sonata No. 2 and Schulhof’s Duo for Violin and Cello)) through 1960 (Bacewicz’s String Quartet No. 6) and on to 1994 (Françaix’s Trio for Oboe, Bassoon, and Piano) coalesce on June 6, also at Holley Hall. The Borromeo String Quartet, which plays these compositions, joins forces with festival faculty on the 7th, at the Sarasota Opera House, in an equally enchanting evening, starting with movements from Jeff Scott’s Passion for Bach and Coltrane. This work starts with Bach’s Goldberg Variations and leaps into the deep end of John Coltrane’s oeuvre, A Love Supreme. More Bach and Mozart complete the evening.

The Opera House, on the 8th, continues as a venue for Festival Firsts, with pieces and/or musicians new to

you. The Beethoven and Mendelssohn compositions are preceded by Reena Esmail’s Teen Murti which weaves together three Hindustani ragas using Western classical techniques.

And speaking of three, there are three Rising Star concerts (the 9th, 16th, and 21st) where festival fellows perform movements from their (your?) favorite chamber works. All at Holley Hall.

And would you like to hear these top musicians play additional compositions by Duruflé, Beethoven, Dvořák,Strauss, Scott, Vaughan Williams,Hailstork, Copland, Dieupart, Monroe, Block, Bach, Poulenc, Kaila, Dohnáni, Tchaikovsky, Franck, Ravel, Clyne, and Brahms? Of course you would. And listen to a lecture by Robert Lenin on Improvisation? You bet.

Just go to sarasotaorchestra.org and pick your dates. Between birth and death there is, hopefully, life At the moment of birth, there are at least two people participating: The mother, who is so involved (if she is

Spa Experience Siesta Key

Since its inception in 1996, Spa Experience Siesta Key has been o ering professional experienced bodywork to visitors and residents of Siesta Key. Ever expanding their o erings and services, they are now proud to announce their sta includes more than ten Licensed Massage erapists, four aestheticians, and an acupuncturist.  With more space and treatment rooms, we can o er services for 12 people simultaneously. Over the past 30 years, Spa Director Connie Lewis has grown the business by expanding both services and space. ey now occupy the entire second oor of 5700 Midnight Pass Road conveniently located with plenty of free parking.  ere are 3 couples rooms where you can have side-by-side facials and then a side-by-side massage.  e

include microdermabrasion facials as well as eyelash and brow tinting.

Another very popular service is our derma plane facial that deeply exfoliates while taking away the hair on your face leaving you smooth and younger looking.  Other facial o erings include the ever-popular Microcurrent facial (the best for anti-aging). is painless relaxing facial uses microcurrent technology to li and tighten the facial muscles and stimulates collagen leaving you looking youthful and dewy. Soon, we are excited to announce that we will be adding Permanent Make up to our menu.  is very popular service is helping women a er dis guring surgery to feel more like their beautiful feminine selves. Of course, lip staining, eyeliner and brows are always in demand for e ortless beauty!  If it's a massage you're looking for, we have you covered. Boasting three couples  rooms, Spa Experience is the only Spa in the area that can provide three massages in the same room. We have hosted families, moms, grandmothers and granddaughters in our Group Room, as well as brides to be enjoying services together with their Bridal Party. We o er many types of massages with over 10 LMT's on sta you are sure to nd your perfect match. From Hot Stone massage to neuromuscular to ai on the table you're sure to nd a treatment that perfectly suited for you. Also, on the menu you will discover an array of di er-

Hours are from 10 am to 7 pm daily. If you need a time  outside of regular hours accommodation, we will try our best to accommodate you.

Connie Lewis is the owner of Spa Experience Siesta Key and has been providing massage and facials since 1994 and has had the pleasure of working and living on Siesta Key for 30 years!

She can be reached at 941-349-4833.

LMT/Aesthetician

Spa Experience Siesta Key www.SpaExperienceSiestaKey.com

Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Forecast

Tarpon fishing will now take off as migratory fish arrive along our beaches. Also look for Spanish mackerel, tripletail, cobia and false albacore (little tunny) in the coastal gulf.

Snook will move into passes and the surf and reds and trout should feed heavily on shallow flats as baitfish become more plentiful. Trout, blues, Spanish mackerel and more should be good options on deep grass flats. Resident tarpon are usually the first to show up as they make their way out of rivers and creeks. As migratory tarpon start to arrive this month, we should have schools of tarpon moving both north and south along our beaches. Early arriving tarpon may be more aggressive due to less fishing pressure early in the season. Set up in their line of travel and wait for tarpon schools to move past and cast a DOA Baitbuster, a 4-inch CAL Shad, a live crab or pinfish to them. Once you’ve seen the first school of fish, you can concentrate your efforts in that “lane” since other schools should be following the same route.

When they aren’t showing well on the surface, a live bait under a float in their travel lane may score. I’ve also done well blind casting a DOA Baitbuster or Swimming Mullet when there wasn’t much showing on the surface.

Be quiet and using your electric trolling motor sparingly. Even though your four-stroke outboard sounds quiet, it is no substitute for an electric trolling motor. Give other anglers at least several hundred yards of space and keep in mind that fish can be moving either north or south so setting up too close to another angler may affect their flow of fish.

Fly anglers should do well with a variety of baitfish or crab

fly patterns fished on floating or intermediate sink tip fly lines. Staking out or anchoring in shallow water on their travel route should result in some shots at fish. The best angle is a “head-on” shot, followed by a quartering shot. A perpendicular shot may work if it’s timed perfectly, although casting too far beyond their line of travel will usually spook them. I use a push pole with an occasional assist from a trolling motor if I need to adjust my position to make a cast.

Snook will be spawning this month so use tackle heavy enough to catch and release them in a timely manner and handle them gently. Larger snook will mostly be females and should always be supported horizontally rather than hung vertically by the jaw. You’ll find them in passes and in the surf. They will also stage around docks and bridges close to passes. Casting CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms or DOA shrimp around docks and bridges close to passes should be effective. Small white flies, like my Grassett Snook Minnow, work well at night. One of the most fun ways to target snook is to walk the beach and cast CAL jigs, DOA Shrimp or flies to them in the surf.

Higher tides this month will mean that reds will spend more time feeding on shallow flats. Look for them along mangrove shorelines and around oyster bars when the tide is high and in potholes or along sandbars when the tide is low. When fishing shallow water for reds, be as quiet as possible. I prefer to use a push pole or wade. Reds are one of the most challenging species to catch on a fly. Since they can be very spooky, I often wade for them when fly fishing to keep a lower profile.

You’ll also find big trout in many of the same shallow areas that you find reds. They will be plentiful on deep grass flats. I prefer to cast CAL jigs and flies on sink tip fly lines for trout. A DOA Deadly Combo also works

very well. Drifting and casting ahead of the drift is usually the most productive method. Look for flats that have a good mix of grass and sand and good tidal flow.

You may find pompano, bluefish and Spanish mackerel on the same deep grass flats where trout are plentiful. They can be targeted in the same way as trout, but you may need to use wire or heavy fluorocarbon leader when toothy fish are around. You may also find Spanish and king mackerel, little tunny, cobia and tripletail in the coastal gulf. Keep your eyes open for surface activity such as diving birds, breaking fish or baitfish being forced out of the water which could indicate the presence of mackerel, blues or little tunny.

Medium spinning tackle and 8- or 9-weight fly tackle should be heavy enough, although your tarpon spinning and fly tackle is not too heavy for cobia. Look

JUNE 2024 TIDE CHART

for cobia either swimming on the surface or around navigational markers or buoys. I have also found cobia swimming with schools of tarpon before. Tripletail may be found around crab trap floats or buoys, where they can be targeted with a DOA shrimp or CAL jig on spinning tackle. When fly fishing for tripletail, a floating line on an 8- or 9-weight fly rod with a shrimp or baitfish fly pattern, like my Grassett Flats Minnow, should get the job done. This is one of my favorite months of the year. If battling a big tarpon isn’t for you, you should have plenty to do on both shallow and deep grass flats or in the coastal gulf. I’ll be spending my time targeting tarpon in the coastal gulf unless conditions won’t allow it. There is something about casting a fly to a giant fish in shallow water!

5400 EAGLES POINT CIRCLE #405 • Sarasota • 2B/2B

This totally renovated 4th floor condominium is tucked away amid the serene natural beauty of The Landings. This light, bright and architecturally delightful residence exudes comfort and class, with an open floor plan spanning approximately 1,695 square feet of living area. Offered at $649,000

Perfectly positioned in the sought-after Washington Heights neighborhood, this picturesque and completely renovated, turnkey furnished home offers incredible rental income and enjoys excellent proximity to downtown Sarasota and Siesta Key Beach. Offered at $535,000

1684 PINTAIL WAY #7 • Sarasota • 3B/2B

Rarely available in Portside Villas. This 1,705 square foot home provides an open and flowing floor plan with volume ceilings, expansive living room, well-appointed kitchen, formal dining room, breakfast area, and peaceful brick paver patio set alongside the serene lake. Offered at $634,000

REDUCED

5210 PARISIENNE PLACE • Sarasota • 2BR/2BA/Den

This gorgeous ground-floor condominium in sought-after Parisienne Gardens has serene lake and preserve views, ensuring privacy and tranquility. The condo offers a den with an open floor plan that creates a seamless flow between living spaces, allowing natural light to shine. Offered at $499,000

Breakfast & Lunch

Trolley delivers 2 millionth ride and gets makeover

On May 10, the Siesta Key trolley formerly known as the Siesta Key Breeze delivered its 2 millionth passenger ride.

To commemorate this achievement, the trolley is being rebranded as the Route 77 Siesta Islander. This rebrand includes a new name, updated appearance, and improved app features.

Sarasota County’s free trolley service launched on Siesta Key in 2017. Since then, the county›s openair trolleys have provided rides to residents and visitors traveling between Siesta Key Village, Siesta Beach, and Turtle Beach.

In summer of 2022, Sarasota County commissioners approved transitioning the county’s entire transit system to the “Breeze” brand, and the Transit Department

rolled out the Breeze Rider app for standard bus routes. The Transit Department has been installing technology on the trolleys that allows them to work with the Breeze Rider app. Passengers are now able to use the app to view the 77 Siesta Islander›s arrival times and track the trolleys.

The trolleys› new design with Breeze branding will complement Breeze buses, Breeze OnDemand minivans, and future Breeze Plus

ACCOMMODATIONS

Beach Palms B-#74

Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa Map-A #38A

ATM / BANKS

PNC ATM Map-C #61

Sun Trust Bank & ATM Map-E #4

BARS & NIGHTCLUBS

Blase Café Map-A #38

Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar Map-B #42-43

Gilligan’s Map-B #33

My Village Pub Map-C #53/54

Siesta Key Oyster Bar Map-B #45

The Beach Club Map-D #22

The Cottage Map-C #58

The Hub-Baja Grill Map-D #59

COFFEE SHOPS

Bean Coffeehouse Map-D #62

Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company Map-B #31

Project Coffee.....................................Map-D #9

FASHION & ACCESSORIES

Beach Bazaar’s & Swin Shack Map-C #28

Blvd. Beachwear Map-B #30

Casa Smeralda Fashion’Style D #12-11

Comfort Shoes-Birki & More Map-D #64

Foxy Lady Fashions Map-A #40

Gidget’s Coastal Provisions Map-B #44

Island Boutique Map-B #50

Island Style Map-C #53

Lilly Pulitzer Map-D #66

Sandbar Swimwear............................Map-B #50

Sea Shanty Map-C #24

Siesta T’s Map-B #30

Southern Tide.....................................Map-D #60

The Sandal Factory Map-B #46

GAS STATION

Circle K Store Map-E #6

GIFTS & SOUVENIRS

Beach Bazaar Map-C #28

Gilligan’s Gift Store Map-B #32

Island Trader Map-C #51

Sea Pleasures & Treasures Map-C #29

Siesta Key Outfitters Map-D #13

HEALTH & FITNESS

Indep. Lifestyle Solutions

Siesta Healing

Siesta Key Fitness

paratransit vehicles. Transit team members estimate the 2 millionth passenger stepped aboard the trolley during the first week of May. Traveling on the 77 Siesta Islander continues to be free for all passengers, operating daily from 8 a.m. until 10 p.m. For more information on the 77 Siesta Islander, visit scgov.net/breeze/ touring or call 311.

Vacation Donations: After a stay, give it away

Your most recent trip to Siesta Key is over. Now, what do you do with what you don’t intend to bring back home?

Well, as you are clearing out your pantry you can donate all your unopened, unexpired, and nonperishable food by dropping off these items at the Siesta Key Chapel drop box located on the pavilion

#10

#9

#73 ICE CREAM/SWEETS

Olaf Creamery

#52 Curly Cream Ice Cream

#9

Chatter

4615 Gleason Ave., as part of the Vacations Donations program. Items to donate include

(fruit

pasta, rice, peanut butter, jelly, and soup. Don’t forget our four-legged friends: pet food is also gladly accepted.

Vacation Donations is in partnership with Community Harvest SRQ, a local food rescue organization.

The Siesta Key Chapel phone number is (941) 349-1166.

Come for the yoga and stay for the sunset

Every Wednesday at 6 p.m., Lynn Messier Hagen, yoga instructor at Tranquility by the Sea, offers a one-hour gentle yoga class on Siesta Beach. Meet behind the

red and green lifeguard towers, to the left of the public beach access mat.

Bring a beverage/snack of your choice and stay afterwards to socialize and meet amazing yogis and witness one of Siesta Key’s famous sunsets!

Fishing tour is Midnight Pass fundraiser prize

A fundraising event for restoring Midnight Pass will feature an online raffle for a four-hour fishing charter out in Sarasota Bay with Capt. David Collica of Flared Fins Fishing Charters.

You can enter for the raffle by donating online at facebook.com/ groups/restoremidnightpass.

Donations (entries) for the drawing close on May 31 at 7:30 p.m.

The restoration of Midnight Pass is a non-profit effort dedicated to

the water quality of Little Sarasota Bay. The pass, closed off in the early 1980s, was a tidal connection between the bay and gulf.

Monies from the fundraiser will help pay for studies reviewing the available options in accomplishing this goal.

Capt. David Collica

And there are now several distinctly different spaces.

“Munchies now has a pub theme that’s perfect for karaoke and singalongs. The brand-new tiki bar has its own vibe and then there’s the inside area with tables,” Kirk said.

Because of its range of hours, he sees the business as being a place that appeals to different groups of customers at different times of the day.

“We want to be a part of the community and to be a hospitality cornerstone of Gulf Gate,” Kirk said.

With that in mind, there’s now a game room for kids and table service for families who come in for dinner.

“Our full-service casual table service is available at all times,” he said.

The 420 Munchies Cafe menu is also getting an update, but

fans of the eatery’s classic dishes need not fear. The beloved “Fried Twinkies” dessert drizzled with raspberry, white chocolate caramel or chocolate toppings will remain. So too will the “Fat Daddy” sandwich.

“It’s obscene, but it’s so good,” said Kirk with a laugh.

The perfect meal for the hungry customer, the Fat Daddy lives up to its name. It contains a cheesesteak with sautéed onions, mushrooms, peppers, chicken fingers, mozzarella sticks, spuds and a cheeseburger with lettuce, tomato, mayonnaise ketchup and cheese.

Kirk said that one of the biggest and, he considers, best menu change is that hot dog and hamburger orders now come with French fries.

Another Munchies classic that gets star billing is the “Fire in Your Hole” dish. “Wimps need not apply,” cautions the menu.

The creation of J.D. Chester, the Munchies original owner, it is a classic and famous dish that has received international attention.

“We had a customer who tried it a few weeks ago, but he only managed seven wings,” said Kirk. Over the years, only a select group have succeeded in the daunting challenge. To make it to the finish line and “eternal glory” as the menu promises, the muncher must be 18 years or older, register in advance, sign a liability waiver, and then chow down on 10 chicken wings in 20 minutes. Every wing has been doused in fiery sauce that Munchies proclaims is made from “some of the hottest peppers in the world.”

Winners go home with a commemorative T-shirt and a photo on the Munchie’s Wall of Pain.

“J.D.’s original sauces are part of the key to success,” said Kirk.

Chester’s signature “Phat

Happiness is...Reflection

Have you ever noticed how reflections have a way of slowing things down? We take time to check our reflection in the mirror. We enjoy our reflection in the slow ripples of a mountain lake. We’re mesmerized by the reflection of light in a stained-glass window.

As summer hits and baseball is in full swing, families are gearing up to enjoy summer activities together. Time has a way of slipping away quickly so it’s the very best time to slow down and take a minute to reflect on the important things in life.

There’s no better way to do that than sitting together a spell and enjoying a cup or cone

Sandwiches” and “Famous Phillies” are also a treasured part of Munchies lore.

Theme nights are among the new happenings at Munchies.

Tuesdays are taco and tequila nights. Karaoke, bingo, and trivia fans also have a reason to celebrate and get in on the fun.

In June, special sports nights, including the pay-per-view Ultimate Fighting Championship (UFC) 302 are on the calendar.

In July, Munchies will host its first 7-10 event. Cannabis fans, Kirk explained, know that when the number 710 is turned upside down, it looks like the word “oil” which is why July 10 is the day to celebrate the wonders of cannabis oil.

of this month’s featured flavors Peach Ice Cream (loaded with peaches and would make a Southerner proud!) or Lemon Ice (A zesty Lemon-flavored ice.) And no better place to do that than Abel's Ice Cream, Sarasota’s favorite local ice cream shop, family-owned since 2011. Abel's award-winning ice cream is the place for a delicious taste of summer.

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

Take-out orders are now available through Grubhub and Uber Eats. DoorDash will also be available soon. Food orders can be placed until 3 am.

The cafe opens every day at 4:20 p.m. and stays open until 3 a.m. Sundays through Thursdays. On Fridays and Saturdays, the doors are open until 4:20 a.m.

In the near future, Saturday and Sunday brunch will be added, Kirk said, and lunch service will begin at noon. Call (941) 303-3304 or check the Facebook page for updates.

Munchies 420 Cafe in Gulf Gate has an updated look. (Jane Bartnett photo)

Boca Boutique: the gift store that keeps giving

By Jane Bartnett

At Boca Boutique, gift giving has been raised to a fine art.

The creation of interior designer Dixi Robertson, this special store is named for the designer’s French bulldog, Boca, and filled with unique designs.

“Boca is a bit of a diva,” laughs her owner, explaining that Boca enjoys spending much of the day lounging on her small pink couch.

The 3,000-square-foot emporium, located at 6969 S. Tamiami Trail in the Gulf Gate district, will soon celebrate its first year in business.

Curated furniture pieces, pillows, cookware, and whimsical decor items greet the shopper at the front of the store. Among the offerings on display: designs in glass (created by local artists), accessories for the desk, complimentary decorative items, useful wine and bar accessories, china pieces, and beautiful furniture in various styles ranging from contemporary to classic.

A large area next to the furnishings is devoted to the heart of the home -- the kitchen. Statues of brightly painted roosters, pretty tea towels, cookware and tempting delicacies such as organic coffees, chocolates and olive oils are waiting to be discovered. And sets of packaged cocktail and dinner napkins in a wide array of designs and colors make a welcome, wellpriced small gift.

Surprisingly deep, the store appears to unfold into a series of mini boutiques beyond furnishings and home goods.

“The price point here is really good,” Robertson said. “We want to be the home goods, clothing, skin care, jewelry, specialty pet and gift items -- the everything store for this special area.”

Her motto is “wellness begins at home.”

“I carry unique, special items that are mostly American-made,” she said.

Dog and cat lovers will be delighted to discover a vast array of decor items paying homage to their pets. There’s also a large selection of leashes, collars, bowls,

and treats for four-legged friends.

Luxurious skin-care products stand alongside a collection of greeting cards, bags, totes and jewelry designed by local artists in sterling with gold and semiprecious stones at a variety of price points.

“I’m very interested in supporting local artists in the community,” said Robertson.

A selection of women’s dresses, hats, shirts, pajamas, and lingerie lies beyond the jewelry.

Those with a passion for pickleball, tennis and golf will

find a selection of gift items for men and women. A special area of gifts for baby as well as a small collection of items for guys are found in the back of the boutique.

Getting personal

In addition to managing the boutique, Robertson also offers personalized interior design services. She specializes in meeting the needs of newly relocated clients who now call the Siesta Key, Gulf Gate and Palmer Ranch areas home.

Her $175 fee includes a one-

to two-hourhome visit. When meeting with her clients, Robertson discusses style, color preferences and items that they treasure.

She then designs a plan for each room and focuses on colors, tiles, lighting, and furniture.

When the designer locates new pieces, she sells them to her clients at retail price.

“Some projects are large, and others just need a refresh,” she said. “I help them to mix their old treasures with things that work here. Light fixtures, lamps and the right chandelier can change

everything. The right rug and even new throw pillows can refresh a room.

“People are often amazed at how adding only a few new things can change the entire look of the home.”

Home sweet home

Like many of her clients, Robertson and her husband, Gary, vacationed here for years before moving to the area from eastern Canada. She spent the earlier part of her career in the financial world as a private wealth management advisor before pursuing her passion for interior design — entering the field by focusing on kitchen and bathroom remodels. Her financial background serves her well as a business owner and in her design consultation.

Having seen clients make the costly decision to ship every piece of their furniture to a new Sarasota home, only to find that those pieces don’t work in their new space, Robertson decided to add premove design consultation to her services.

“Moving fees can be very expensive,” she said thoughtfully. A pre-move consultation, she explained, would include a video tour of the current home. In advance of the move, Robertson will either visit the new residence in person or view it by video. In consultation with her client, she will then create a design plan for the new home.

“The Siesta Key region calls for a lighter, more casual design approach. It’s more open with lighter, brighter colors,” she said. Robertson adds new items regularly, creating new vignettes that mirror the season and upcoming holidays. She is also planning sip-and-shop evenings and welcomes inquiries about instore, after-5 p.m. events for small groups of under 10 people, such as book and mahjong groups.

Boca Boutique is open Monday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Visitbocaboutiquesrq. com or call (941) 529-1000.

Left, Boca Boutique owner and interior designer Dixi Robertson finalizes a display in her store., Top right, Furniture, items for the home as well as clothing, jewelry and art work are found at Boca Boutique., Bottom right, Gourmet treats and giftable kitchen items are among the items for sale at Boca Boutique in Gulf Gate. (Jane Bartnett)

photography,” said Schmid. When she offered the couple the chance to buy the Island Trader store, they gladly said yes.

“We were so fortunate,” Schmid said.

Soon, the couple closed Island Trader and reimagined the shop into their own beachside boutique that they called Casa del Sol.

“We try to be timeless. Our goal is to offer our customers effortless fashionable designs that can be worn year after year. Linens, cottons, breathable designs, that’s what we look for,” said Schmid. “The Italian Bella Amore line is a customer favorite. We carry their tops and

soft dresses.”

Shoppers will also find a selection of gift items and accessories from Spartina, and the popular “enewton” bracelets and necklaces. The Aloha Collection splash-proof, lightweight bags from Hawaii are also popular.

“The Alco jewelry line from Destin, Florida, is made for the beach,” said Schmid. “It’s water and tarnish resistant and made from mixed gold and silver metals.”

Other Florida-made products featured in the shop include the Rilevare natural beauty products, and their own popular Casa Costera clothing that features the “Live in the

Rays … A Lifestyle Under the Sun,” line of hats and T-shirts for men and women.

“We donate 1% of each sale to the Sarasota Bay Estuary Program,” said Browne. “The brand is doing well. And guys really like the Rhythm Australia surf brand graphic T-shirts.”

Schmid and Browne are part of a new generation of young retailers on the Key -- much like Sean and Tana Anderson, who in 2022 gave new life to the Crescent Beach Market, as well as Ian Steger, who owns Project Coffee in Siesta Village. They bring an exciting new spirit to the island and a fresh approach to merchandising and branding.

Casa del Sol and the Crescent Beach Market also share a landlord. Chris Brown has re-invigorated many Siesta Key properties, and he has plans to refresh the look of Casa del Sol and neighboring Created Gems in the coming months.

“We’re very excited about it,” said Schmid.

Brown’s improvements to the Crescent Beach Market included the dramatic and vibrant Siesta Key mural depicting Siesta Beach and its iconic lifeguard chairs. The colorful artwork graces the side of the building and greets drivers and pedestrians entering and exiting the Key at the base of the south bridge.

Looking ahead, the young Casa del Sol entrepreneurs plan to strengthen their online presence and grow their clothing line.

“This store reflects the way that we feel about Siesta Key. It’s open and comfortable and special. Our shop is for people like us who love to travel and who love this special place,” said Schmid.

As they look ahead to their store’s first anniversary, the future looks bright.

“The month of March was phenomenal,” said Schmid. Added Browne, commenting on the transition, “It’s been very affirming for us. It’s completely our store now.”

Left, Nicholas Browne, co-owner of Casa del Sol in the men’s section of the store. (Jane Bartnett photo). Middle, Inside Casa del Sol Boutique. Erika Schmid, co-owner of Casa del Sol boutique in Siesta Key Village. Photo by Nicholas Browne. Right, The large mural on the back of the Crescent Beach Market is a welcoming sign, part of landlord Chris Brown’s beautification efforts.

awake) in the process that she is hard put to give a coherent version of all that has happened.

The others, the children, are in such an emotional state that few remember any specific details, let alone the full narrative. Yes, there are bit players who come and go, some with forceps and others with ice chips or long shiny needles, but they have seen the same scene in so many plays that, perhaps, no specific one seems truly distinct.

Death is another matter: Some of us get to see a preview of what is to come: a bad accident followed by a coma, and then a light at the end of the tunnel –LED, incandescent or florescent, who knows, it depends on the age of the operating room. Other previews take one through some stage 4 of one type or another, one lingers awhile, and then, presto, remission. Although these previews are of a death that seems totally personal, there is no guarantee that lightening will finally strike the way life’s tarot cards predicted.

And while there might be a

small circle of friends and family, or a multitude of strangers sitting ringside, when the candle at the end of your tunnel is snuffed –when you close your eyes – you are truly alone.

So, the in-between time is something we call life; something that we see ourselves and, most often, ourselves are seen. But … who knows what was seen, when you die alone? No family, no friends, nor strangers to see you go

and, perhaps, therefore none to connect you to the you that you were.

See The Lonely Death of L. Harris being presented at the Cook Theatre at the FSU Center for the Performing Arts June 6 and 8 during the Squeaky Wheel Fringe Festival. Original live music by John Munnelly. It is an improvised (with audience participation) comedy/drama. More info at squeakywheeltheatre.org.

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. thru Fri. 8:30 a.m. to 6 p.m., Sat., 8:30 a.m. to 3 p.m.

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.

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 traditional simplicity of the methods used by their Italian ancestors. Dine inside, outside, pick up, or DELIVERY anywhere on Siesta Key, or in Sarasota until 3:30 a.m. 6574 Superior Ave., 941-924-5800.

Gulf Gate Food + Beer (S-51): Sarasota’s late-night hot spot for the service industry, night owls, and midnight snackers. It’s not your typical sports bar, offering unique menu selections for carnivores and vegetarians. Be sure to check out their menu online at: eatfooddrinkbeer.com. Hours: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. (Sun. - 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.

Seascape Aquarium & Pet Center (GG**) Serving the area since 1975, this lively critter emporium features 10,000 feet of showroom, 25,000 gallons of freshwater, saltwater and coral, and adventures galore.

Hours are Monday-thru Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Saturday 10 am. 5 p.m., Sunday noon to 4 p.m.

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 husbandand-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.

L’Opera Bakery Bistro (GG1) This French bakery and pastry restaurant has a great dedication to freshness with sweets and breads baked on site. Also features salads and sandwiches along with homemade macaroons and chocolate. Hours are 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday thru Sunday. Located at 2336 Gulf Gate Drive. Call 941-922-2253.