Island Visitor - March 2025

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Artists Are Born at Shattered Glass DIY Sarasota

Looking for a creative outlet? Shattered Glass

DIY, a hands-on art studio on Stickney Point Road, offers both beginners and experienced artists the chance to craft unique pieces using glass and resin. Located next to the well-known Paisano Italian Bakery, the shop provides a welcoming space for self-expression and artistic exploration.

Amy Vankirk took ownership of the boutique and classroom space in June 2024. She leads resin design workshops, while artist Katy Cristiani teaches the glass art classes. Students create either framed glass artwork using

Where’s the Beef? At Tony’s Chicago Beef Company

If you’re craving authentic Chicago-style fare, look no further than Tony’s Chicago Beef Company at 6569 Superior Ave. in Gulf Gate.

Since opening two decades ago, owner Tony Fricano has made this unassuming storefront a go-to spot for mouthwatering Chicago beef sandwiches and hot dogs—along with a full dose of Windy City nostalgia.

Step inside, and you’re instantly transported to Chicago. The walls are packed with memorabilia: the Cubs, the Bears, Michael Jordan, iconic signs, and famous political figures. It’s like stepping into a portal to The Loop.

But while the décor is fun to take in, the real draw is the food.

For the uninitiated, a true Chicago-style beef sandwich or hot dog is more than just a meal—it’s a cultural institution.

The wildly popular TV show

The Bear has only amplified its status. But long before the series, Chicago’s sandwich and hot dog stands had a devoted following.

Tony and his son, Giuseppe, have brought that tradition to Sarasota.

The shop is split in two: the right side for dining, the left for cooking. You place your order, grab a seat, and in minutes, you’re indulging in an authentic taste of Chicago.

The Menu: Classics Done Right

The beef sandwich: Paperthin slices of slow-cooked beef, simmered in natural juices and stuffed into Italian bread. You can have it fully dipped for the ultimate juicy experience or opt for a lighter soak. Either way, it’s a filling meal.

The hot dog: A Vienna allbeef dog that snaps when you bite into it, served in a classic Vienna bun and topped just as it must be: bright yellow mustard, neon green relish (flown in from Chicago), chopped onions, tomato wedges, a dill pickle

prepared pieces of colored glass, shells, and embellishments, or resin-painted wooden boards, which can be transformed into decorative art, charcuterie boards, or serving pieces.

A Hands-On Experience

For those drawn to glass art, the process begins with pre-made stencils that serve as guides. “Waves, turtles, flamingos, palm trees, and coastal designs are very popular,” Cristiani said. “Turtles are always trending.” She also customizes stencils from customer photos. One standout creation? A French bulldog design, based on a

customer’s photograph. “I designed the stencil,” Cristiani said, “and the customer completed a one-of-a-kind piece she loves and plans to display in her home.”

On a busy Saturday afternoon, the studio was buzzing with activity as students participated in both glass and resin workshops. The resin group, led by Vankirk, worked on one side of the space, while Cristiani oversaw the glass workshop. “We have every color of the rainbow,” Vankirk said, referring to both the resin paints and glass pieces.

Giuseppe Fricano shows how it’s done. (Photo by Dan Bosko)
Shattered Glass DIY owner Amy Vankirk with a finished glass portrait of a perky white French Bulldog. (Photo by Jane Bartnett)

Arts on the Horizon

Rossini, Mozart, Verdi? Sure, but...

Everyone loves those three great composers—who doesn’t love great opera? But two of the most beloved operas of all time, Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci , always play back-to-back on the same opera evenings. Their composers, Pietro Mascagni and Ruggero Leoncavallo, are well known to opera aficionados but less so to the public.

Leoncavallo wrote Pagliacci after seeing the success of Mascagni’s Cavalleria rusticana . His opera premiered just two years and four days later.

Two other operas are forever linked Rossini’s The Barber of Seville and Mozart’s The Marriage of Figaro. Both are based on comedies by French playwright Pierre Beaumarchais. Unlike Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci , there are no murders, duels, or confirmed affairs— though there are plenty of attempts.

Just how popular are these two operas? They will be performed nine times this season at the Metropolitan Opera in New York. Sarasota, however, offers even more, with 10 performances by the Sarasota Opera from mid-February through March 29. Cavalleria rusticana has been performed more than 700 times at the Met since its 1891 debut. A fun fact: jazz legend Louis Armstrong played the trumpet solos during performances in Chicago in the 1920s.

As with many operas, Cavalleria rusticana involves tangled relationships. A is engaged to B, but B marries C. A seduces D and later rekindles an affair with B. D then tells C, leading to chaos—at one point, A even bites C’s ear, Mike Tyson-style.

Pagliacci , by contrast, differs in one keyway: none of the characters involved in love affairs and violence are married. But rivalry exists outside the story as well—

The storyline follows Figaro, a barber in Seville, as he helps Count Almaviva court, win, and marry Rosina. The second opera finds Figaro preparing to marry Susanna, a maid to the count. Unfortunately, the count hopes to invoke droit du seigneur—the supposed right of a nobleman to sleep with a servant before she weds. Will he, won’t he? Will she, won’t she? Whatever the case, audiences can enjoy these operas through March 28-29.

For a more serious look at human relationships, there’s Stiffelio, running through March 30. This Verdi opera tells the story of a Protestant pastor whose wife has committed adultery and seeks forgiveness. Did she? Yes. Will he forgive her? Maybe. As in Cavalleria rusticana and Pagliacci , knives are involved.

For those seeking more operatic experiences, afternoon performances by Apprentice Artists and Covers, as well as pre-show talks, are available. More information is at sarasotaopera.org

George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life

Some people spend a lifetime saving for retirement. Others work until they can’t anymore. But a lucky few have enough money by age 27 to buy a 32-acre Victorian estate—and restore it.

One such person was George Harrison. The former Beatle considered himself a gardener first, after his side hustle as a guitarist and singer in a little English band called The Beatles.

Though Harrison is gone, his twin passions— gardening and music—are the focus of George Harrison: A Gardener’s Life , now on display at the Jean & Alfred Goldstein Exhibition at Selby Gardens through June 29. The exhibition begins in the Orchid Conservatory and extends throughout Selby Gardens and its museum.

A video of Harrison overseeing his garden’s transformation in the 1970s plays at the entrance. His creativity extended beyond music—he added personal

touches rather than merely restoring what was

and

that tradition,

throughout

Evening viewings, featuring music, dance, and receptions with light hors d’oeuvres and beverages, are scheduled for March through May. More information is at selby.org

Continued
there. Selby Gardens continues
placing Beatles
Harrison memorabilia
the exhibit. Visitors can explore a Victorian maze, view a largerthan-life model of the Matterhorn, and listen to Living in the Material World while enjoying Sarasota Bay’s floral beauty.

There’s something magical about the soothing sound of waves, the warmth of the sun, and the feel of soft sand beneath your feet during a beach yoga session. No need to book a flight to Bali—winter beach yoga is back at Siesta Beach and Turtle Beach. Led by experienced instructors, these outdoor sessions welcome all skill levels and are held as scheduled, weather permitting.

Turtle Beach Yoga

For early risers, Julie PhillipsTurner of Chesapeake Yoga & Wellness offers yoga classes at Turtle Beach every Tuesday and Thursday from 8:30-9:30 a.m. Her mobile studio approach brings yoga beyond the mat, and she

welcomes all experience levels. A $5 fee per session covers the cost of her seasonal beach permit, with additional contributions appreciated. Classes meet near the stairs and ramp on the north side of the Turtle Beach parking lot and run through April 29.

Siesta Beach Yoga

At Siesta Beach, behind the blue and green lifeguard stands, instructor Lynn Hagen of Tranquility by the Sea offers free beach yoga sessions. Open to all levels, Hagen’s classes are donation-based to help cover permits and fees. “My goal is to get my yogis to live in the moment,” she said.

ACCOMMODATIONS

Palms

Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa

/ BANKS

&

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

Gilligan’s Gift Store

#28

#32

Island Trader Map-C #51

Sea Pleasures & Treasures

#29

• Saturday: 9 a.m.

Siesta Beach Yoga: Beginning March 10

Siesta Beach Yoga: March 1-8

• Monday: 9:30 a.m.

• Tuesday: 9:30 a.m.

• Wednesday (Sunset): 5 p.m.

• Thursday: 8:30 a.m.

• Friday: 9:30 a.m.

• Monday: 9 a.m.

• Tuesday: 8:30 a.m.

• Wednesday (Sunset): 6:30 p.m.

• Thursday: 8:30 a.m.

• Friday: 9 a.m.

• Saturday: 9 a.m. For more

on Turtle Beach yoga, visit chesapeakeyoga.com or Chesapeake Yoga on Facebook. For Siesta Beach yoga, visit siestakeyyoga.net or Tranquility by the Sea on Facebook.

MARKETS/FOOD STORES

Circle K Store Map-E #6

Morton’s Siesta Market Map-C #25

MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage Map-B #35

Spa at Calle Minorga Map-E #74

Sassy ... the Little Day Spa.............Map-D #62

MEDICAL - DENTAL

Siesta Village Dentistry Map-D #63

Siesta Dental Map-B #49

Siesta Key Physical Therapy Map-D #20

MISCELLANEOUS

Chamber of Commerce Map-D #67

Prime Audio Video Map-E #1

Roberti Enterprises Map-A #39 Village Arcade Map-C #53

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES

Attorney Fleming Map-E #1

Edward Jones Investments Map-D #68

Smith Architects Map-E 74

REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Amy Robinson RE Map-E #1

Palms B-74

Coldwell Banker Realty Map-D #20 EXP Realty Map-E #4

Judith Guzzi & Assoc Map-E #74

Keller Williams Real Estate Map-D #11 Michael Saunders Realty Map-E #72

ReMax Alliance Group Map-C #29

RentSiestaKey.com Map-D #9

Robasota Rentals & Real Estate Map-A

Siesta Beach yoga (Photo provided)

Snook fishing should be strong this month, particularly at night around lighted docks and bridge fenders in the Intracoastal Waterway. DOA Shrimp, CAL jigs with shad tails, and small white flies, such as the Grassett Snook Minnow, are typically effective, as glass minnows and shrimp are the predominant bait. Anglers using live bait should have success with freelined shrimp. The best action is expected along shadow lines where light meets dark during strong tides.

Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Report

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters (941) 923-7799

In March, snook may also be found in rivers, creeks, and canals, but they will begin moving onto shallow flats, particularly on warm, sunny afternoons. Larger lures, including CAL jigs with jerk worms, CAL 4-inch Shad Tails, DOA Baitbusters, and the DOA PT soft plastic topwater lure, are recommended. Wideprofile flies, such as Clousers, Deceivers, and EP flies, can also be effective. As the water temperature rises, baitfish like pilchards will become more abundant and serve as excellent live bait.

Redfish activity should pick up as water temperatures rise and baitfish become more plentiful. Higher tides will allow redfish to feed in shallow water, making them more accessible. Look for them over shallow grass, along mangrove shorelines, and near oyster bars at high tide. During low tide, they are often found in potholes and along sandbars.

North Sarasota Bay’s shallow flats are a prime location for redfish this month. A 1/16-ounce CAL jig with shad tails and jerk worms is useful for locating them, while fly anglers may find success with the Grassett Flats Minnow fly, fished on a 10- to 12-foot leader with a stiff butt section for optimal energy transfer.

Redfish may also be found around docks at low tide. Look for deep water under docks with good tidal flow for the best results. A free-lined live shrimp, a 1/8-ounce CAL jig with a shad tail or grub, or a weighted fly fished on a clear intermediate sink tip fly line with a six-foot leader should be effective.

Spotted seatrout can also be found in many of the same locations as redfish, particularly in areas where grass meets sand or in potholes on sandbars. Live bait anglers should have success freelining shrimp in potholes or near docks. Recent seatrout regulations in Southwest Florida include a three-fish-perperson bag limit and a six-fish boat limit, with fish required to be between 15 and 19 inches, except for one per vessel over 19 inches. Larger trout, typically female breeders, play a crucial role in maintaining a

There should be good action on both shallow and deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay during March. Dave Reinhart, from MA, with a snook, redfish and pompano, all caught and released on CAL jigs with grub or shad tails while fishing Sarasota Bay with Capt. Rick Grassett.

healthy fishery. Full regulations can be found at myfwc.com.

On deep grass flats, anglers should find trout alongside Spanish mackerel, bluefish, flounder, and pompano. A series of drifts while casting CAL jigs with shad tails, DOA Deadly Combos, or Ultra Hair Clouser flies on a clear intermediate sink tip fly line can help locate fish. Live bait anglers should do well using a live shrimp under a popping cork. Signs of activity such as diving birds, baitfish showering, or surface boils indicate feeding fish below. When mackerel and bluefish are present, using six inches of 40- to 60-pound fluorocarbon or wire as a leader may be necessary. Topwater plugs and fly poppers are also effective for attracting these species. Flounder may be found in sandy or muddy areas on both shallow and deep grass flats, as well as around docks. Pompano may reveal their location by skipping on the surface when boats pass by. The best action for pompano is expected over deep grass flats with a mix of grass and sand and strong tidal flow.

In the coastal Gulf, anglers may encounter Spanish and king mackerel, false albacore (little tunny), cobia, or tripletail. Terns diving or hovering over the water often indicate schools of Spanish mackerel or false albacore feeding on the surface. Live bait is a strong option, while spin anglers can use 1/4-ounce CAL jigs with shad tails or jerk worms, as well as topwater plugs. Fly anglers should find success with small white flies, such as the Grassett Snook Minnow or Ultra Hair Clouser, fished on an intermediate sink tip fly line. Running crab trap lines at varying depths can help locate tripletail and cobia near crab trap floats. Tripletail are known to strike live shrimp, DOA Shrimp, or lightly weighted flies with weed guards. Cobia may be spotted swimming on the surface as they migrate north following warmer water

and baitfish. DOA Baitbusters, PT lures, and large, wide-profile flies such as Deceivers or EP flies are solid choices. If fish are not seen on the surface, checking artificial reefs or natural hard-bottom areas may yield results, as these locations often hold baitfish and predators. Baitfish drifted over structure, DOA Baitbusters,

or weighted flies on sink tip fly lines can be effective for targeting these species. Conditions are usually good during March and fishing should heat up. Flats and night snook fishing are usually good options this month. I like to check the coastal gulf when conditions are good, since you could find something good happening there. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, toxic spills and discharges, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

MARCH 2025 TIDE CHART

www.USHarbors.com

Sarasota, FL - Mar 2025

Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet: Play, Video Game, or Ballet?

Let’s go with ballet.

Sarasota Ballet will perform Sir Frederick Ashton’s Romeo and Juliet at the Van Wezel Performing Arts Hall on March 28-29, featuring Prokofiev’s soaring score performed by the Sarasota Orchestra. Expect high drama, emotional intensity, and breathtaking choreography— especially when Mercutio and Tybalt leap, twist, and fall in their fatal knife fight.

Shakespeare’s famous line—“A plague on both your houses”—doesn’t refer to buildings but to the feuding families, the House of Capulet and the House of Montague. The Sarasota Ballet’s production marks its first time performing Ashton’s version, originally created for the Royal Danish Ballet.

Romeo and Juliet has been adapted many times since Shakespeare wrote it in the 1590s. His play itself was based on an earlier English version of an Italian story, which in turn drew inspiration from Ovid’s Metamorphoses in the 8th century. Some stories just get better over time. More information is at sarasotaballet.org

Catalyst Quartet: Music as a Force for Change

A catalyst sparks change without itself changing. The Catalyst Quartet, performing March 30 at Sarasota’s First Presbyterian Church, takes that concept to music.

Their name reflects their mission: to inspire transformation through sound. This isn’t a Beethoven-only, Baroque, or jazz ensemble. Instead, their performances span musical styles, from Astor Piazzolla’s South American modernism to Philip Glass’s minimalism, Bach’s Baroque precision, and Fanny Mendelssohn’s Romantic compositions. Recent programs have included works by Osvaldo Golijov, Johannes Brahms, Alberto Ginastera,

Joseph Haydn, and Joan Tower, including On Memory, inspired by the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

Since their founding in 2010, the Catalyst Quartet has promoted “the unity that can be achieved through music.” More information is at artistseriesconcerts.org

Musical Insects and Orchestral Adventures

Words can be tricky. Nikolai Rimsky-Korsakov’s opera Tale of Tsar Saltan translates to of King King—since tsar

Caesar. One of its orchestral interludes, Flight of the Bumblebee, later became the theme for The Green Hornet series.

Another insect-inspired piece is Ralph Vaughan Williams’ The Wasps Overture, which the Sarasota Orchestra will perform March 7-9 at the Van Wezel. The program also features violinist Grace Park, a Naumburg Competition winner, performing Dvořák’s Romance in F Minor. Ravel’s Holst’s The Planets (well, seven of them) round out the concert, conducted by Peter Oundjian.

For lighter fare, A Musical Comedy March 12-16 at Holley Hall, featuring Leroy Anderson’s The Typewriter Jones and the Last Crusade’s Motorcycle and Orchestra La Cage aux Folles and information is at sarasotaorchestra.org

Glass

Continued from page 1V

She first discovered resin art while homebound with COVID-19 and has been hooked ever since.

Among the participants was Karen Sagar, a seasonal visitor from Clinton, Iowa. She worked on a framed glass piece depicting a cresting wave. “I’m not an artist, but I guess today I am,” she said with a laugh, admiring her work. “It will be a lasting memory of Siesta Key.”

Resin Art Meets Functionality

In Vankirk’s charcuterie board resin class, participants learn to pour and manipulate resin paints on treated wooden boards. Customers can choose from a variety of base materials, including surfboards, bamboo and zebra wood cutting boards, and Acacia wood boards.

“They can paint the entire piece or leave part of the wood exposed for cheese, crackers, or other foods,” Vankirk said. “The resin is decorative—we don’t recommend cutting or serving food on it.”

Christine Prim, a Sarasota resident, and her friend Nash Robinette, visiting from St. Paul, Minnesota, worked side by side on their boards. Robinette’s featured rich chocolate brown and deep green hues. When Vankirk suggested adding gold accents,

Beef

Continued from page 1V

spear, sport peppers, and a dash of celery salt.

Both are made fresh with care. Prices? So reasonable that customers often tell Tony and Giuseppe they should charge more. (The two-hot dog meal is an especially great deal.)

And then there are the fries— thin, crispy slivers with the natural potato skin intact. Tony’s sells 250 pounds of them daily. Also on the menu: a juicy burger and a slaw dog topped with creamy coleslaw for those who prefer a different kind of crunch.

The beef—always fresh, never frozen—comes in 12- to 15-pound flats that slow-cook overnight. Tony’s serves 400 pounds of it a week. “Every day we cook; every day we slice,” Tony said. He or

both friends agreed it would elevate the piece.

For Prim’s wave-themed board, Vankirk recommended adding white lines to mimic cresting waves.

As students drizzled and poured resin onto their boards, Vankirk handed them small heat dryers to manipulate the paint into fluid, organic patterns. The results drew smiles and excitement.

“Our customers not only have the experience of creating something themselves,” Vankirk said, “but they also leave with something special to display in their home.”

Completed projects are ready for pickup the next day after the resin fully sets.

Workshops and Custom Creations

Shattered Glass DIY offers a variety of group classes, including sessions for kids, parent-child workshops, and date night events.

his son arrives by 8 a.m. daily to prep for the lunchtime rush.

A Chicago Legacy in Sarasota

Tony, a Chicago restaurant veteran since 1979, moved to Sarasota in 2001 with his wife and Giuseppe. A vacation visit turned into a permanent stay when his wife suggested they buy a house. Instead, Tony bought the shop in Gulf Gate first.

“My heritage is all about food,” he said. “It’s in my blood.”

Customers came quickly, and over time, the memorabilia followed—much of it brought in by fellow Chicago transplants.

“They come in and reminisce,”

Private two-hour parties are also available. “Private events are very popular, and guests can bring their own snacks and drinks,” Vankirk said.

The front of the shop houses a boutique selling pre-made resin and glass creations, including colorful resin magnets and phone grips for $5, along with hanging ornaments, resin clocks, and framed glass artwork. A standout piece—a large, intricate heron glass design—sells for $150.

Shattered Glass DIY is in Gateway Plaza at 2740 Stickney Point Road. To book a workshop, visit shatteredglassdiy.com/ sarasota or call 941-554-4599.

Tony said. One of his favorite pieces? A signed photo of Michael Jordan, a gift from a friend back in Chicago.

As business grew, so did the operation. In 2017, they expanded to a second location in Venice, turning an old root beer stand into another Tony’s. “We haven’t looked back since,” Giuseppe said.

No matter which location you visit, one thing is certain: You won’t leave hungry. And according to regular Jeff Converse, a former Chicagoan who works next door and stops by twice a week, you’ll also leave happy.

“Everyone’s friendly—on both sides of the counter,” he said.

Nash Robinette joined her friend Christine Prim at a resin class. Amy Vankirk offers advice. (Photo by Jane Bartnett)

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.

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 (GG39) 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.

Taste of Spain (M13) We are a catering service specializing in authentic paellas and tapas, serving Sarasota, Manatee, and the Tampa Bay area in Florida. Treat your guests to the sight and aroma of Spain’s famous dish being prepared at your event. With exquisite Spanish cuisine, top-notch service, and customizable options, we ensure an unforgettable experience.

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