Things to do on and around Siesta Key
J A N U A R Y 2 0 2 4 | S I E S TA S A N D . U S | 9 4 1 . 3 1 2 . 0 6 6 5
Welcome aboard, Brittany! New Visitor Center manager feels at home, due in part to Siesta Beach history By Jane Bartnett
Brittany Stokes (left), the new Visitor Center manager and volunteer coordinator for the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, works alongside new volunteer Heidi Natt. (photo by Jane Bartnett)
The power of volunteering is something that Brittany Stokes takes to heart. In fact, volunteerism and community service are the cornerstones of her career. So, it’s no surprise that she’s embracing with delight her new role as both the manager of the Siesta Key Visitor Center and the manager of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce’s volunteers. “This job is a dream come true for me,” said Stokes. “I knew from the start that volunteer management was where I was happy.”
As a college student, Stokes moved to Sarasota with her family and became a lifeguard with the Siesta Beach Patrol. Her post atop the colorful lifeguard chairs gave her a unique perspective of life on the beach as she observed the people and wildlife that flock to the soft white sand and water. Putting her communications studies to work, Stokes teamed up with fellow lifeguard Scot “Scooter of the Beach” Ruberg and wrote a series of articles about Siesta Beach from a lifeguard’s perspective for the
Pelican Press, a former Siesta Key newspaper. It was during her lifeguard days that she met her future husband, Christian. He now serves as a lieutenant with the Sarasota County Beach Patrol. As she settles into her new role at the chamber, it brings her joy to be back on the island that she first fell in love with 20 years ago. With her communications degree from the University of Continued on page 11V
‘It’s the last paradise area’ The campground atTurtle Beach Park is known for campers so happy they often re-book as much as a year in advance By Ned Steele
N
early everyone in a beach town is a happy camper, and Siesta Key’s happiest of all just may be the lucky, plucky few who are literally … campers. In RVs, motor homes, trailers and even tents they flock, from as close as down the road to as far off as Asia, to vacation under the stars at one of the Key’s little-known secrets, Turtle Beach Campground. It’s a rarity for Florida – a cozy campground right off a public beach, and the campers it attracts are happy indeed. Even Marco Maximillian of Lido Key, who really didn’t have much reason to be. Forced to live out of his SUV last month while his home was cleaned out by a pest control crew, Maximillian drove it straight to the campground and set up house. He was pleased
with the decision. “It’s very comfortable. You’re straight on the beach,” he said. “It’s the last paradise area. You just see concrete after concrete everywhere else.” Working on the mainland by day – he scouts cars for television productions and overseas buyers – he returned to his campsite nightly to sleep in the SUV. The irony was inescapable: “The tent is on my house,” he lamented. A few sites away his also-happy campsite neighbors, Gunther and Annette Schiedmeyer of Stuttgart, Germany, relaxed in their gleaming new RV purchased in and shipped from Hamburg. Their story was quite different. “We started in Halifax, Canada,” Gunther explained. The couple had journeyed across
Employees Martin Haire (left) and Greg Steinberg welcome you to Turtle Beach Campground. (photo by Ned Steele)
Continued on page 15V
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Parade perfection graces the Village
Get acquainted with our shells
Cheers to a tasty drink, Siesta style
Some info on our local dive-bombers
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Arts on the Horizon By Rodger Skidmore The holidays continue
What makes holidays special besides tasty food and presents? How about friends and music – especially in combination? One special holiday still to come is Carnival, specifically the Brazilian version. The Sarasota Orchestra is presenting Clarice Assad’s Bonecos de Olinda on Jan. 5-7 at the Van Wezel and Neel auditoriums on the Masterworks program, Friends and Inspirations. Olinda, a city in northeastern Brazil, famous for its sugar cane and, apparently, its bosecos (sugar cane sweet dolls – the bohemian kind) that kick up their heels during those festive days. Side note: Olinda is a UNESCO heritage site and the closest point of land in South America to Africa. If continental drift could be reversed, it would nestle right into the coast between Nigeria and Cameroon. Miguel Harth-Bedoya will also be conducting Rachmaninoff’s Rhapsody on a Theme of Paganini, featuring Sir Stephen Hough, piano. Topping off the event will be Elgar’s Variations on an Original Theme At month’s end, Jan. 26-28, the Sarasota Orchestra’s Masterworks Titans presentation at the Van Wezel starts with Giancarlo Guerrero conducting Mozart’s Overture to The Marriage of Figaro. This piece is followed by, or more accurately blends into, Kevin Puts’ Marimba Concerto. Puts loves Mozart’s piano concertos and composed this one with an instrumentation similar to what Mozart used, simply substituting a marimba for the piano. Ji Su Jung, the first solo percussionist to receive the Avery Fisher Career Grant, will be striking, not the keys, but the tone bars. To make sure everyone is awake for their drive home after the concert, it will end with Mahler’s Symphony No. 1 (Titan). Sandwiched in between these Masterworks presentations will be, By Special Arrangement, a Great Escapes concert series offering at Holley Hall on Jan. 10-14. Just as “Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star” morphed into the opening bars of “Eine Kleine Nachtmusik,” so too have many other piano compositions been arranged to become full orchestral pieces. Christopher Confessore will be conducting arrangements of piano pieces that became great theater and film sensations. A few days later, Evan Raider, conductor
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for the national tour of Wicked, will be leading some Broadway Showstoppers in the orchestra’s pop series at the Van Wezel on Jan. 19-20. These Broadway songs will be sung by Broadway stars Ali Ewoldt, Teri Hanson, and Sean MacLaughlin, with selections from Mamma Mia!, Rent, Chicago, A Chorus Line, Wicked, and many other shows. On the 21st the full orchestra slims down to a fabulous foursome when Jennifer Best Takeda. violin; Christopher Schnell, cello; Jonathan Spivey, piano; and Matthew Pigis viola; perform at Holley Hall. The musical menu includes Florence Price’s String Quartet, a bluesy, folk-spiritual work, and Robert Schumann’s Piano Quartet, which he wrote for his wife Clara. Bleeding into the next month, Jan. 31 through Feb. 4, is some Revolutionary Music at Holley Hall. Not a shoot‘em-up revolution, but more of a change-everything musical revolution, as in the opening of Beethoven’s Fifth Symphony or the shower scene from Psycho. Lawrence Loh leads the Orchestra in a tribute to “revolutionary” music including compositions by Verdi, the Beatles, and film music by John Williams. Info for all at SarasotaOrchestra.org.
Hop, skip and jump
Ricardo Graziano has been supplying the Sarasota Ballet with his award-winning, audience approved works as its resident choreographer for 10 years. In this season’s fourth program, Graziano Celebrated, the Sarasota Ballet gives us all a chance to celebrate by asking the ballet corps, principles, and soloists to slide, leap, and rotate for our enjoyment. Musically, a sonata is a structure with an exposition, development and recapitulation.
Long time coming
The first step in writing a play is to come up with a concept. Something different, new and, hopefully, of interest to an audience. The novelist Virginia Woolf wrote nine novels and volume after volume of essays and memoirs but only one play. That work, a comedy filled with inside jokes, was mainly written to amuse members of the Bloomsbury Group. So, not broad audience appeal. In one of her essays, Ms. Woolf posits a question: what if “Shakespeare had a wonderfully gifted sister, called Judith?” This was not a throwaway line, it was central to the essay’s theme; that a woman, without money and a room of her own, could achieve nothing. However, Woolf did not develop this idea further, either into novel, story, or play. More’s the pity, if she had expounded upon this idea, the world’s feminist movement might have advanced a bit more during the 100 years since this thought flowed from head, to pen, to paper. Fortunately, the playwright Katie Bender, while perhaps immersed in an English lit course, chanced upon these words and brought Woolf’s literary seed into fruition. And, happily for us, the Urbanite Theatre has let this gem blossom, in its world premiere, here in Sarasota from Jan. 4 through Feb. 18. Like Gwyneth Paltrow in Shakespeare in Love, Livy Scanlon, as Judith, dons male garb in order to prove her skills to the world – or at least to London’s literary cognoscenti of the time. Brendon Fox has structured Judith in such a way that, while raising questions of identity, ambition, and self-worth, it is a work of much broader appeal than Ms. Woolf might have imagined. Info at Urbanitetheatre.com.
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A sonatina is the same thing, but shorter and lighter in character. It is also the name of the first of Graziano’s ballets to be performed Jan. 26-29 at the FSU Center’s Mertz Theatre. Sonatina was written after COVID-19 (many performance organizations now call that their “digital season”) to welcome attendees back to their real brick and mortar homes. Accompanying the dancers will be the splendid notes of Dvořák’s Violin Sonatina in G Major. The second item on the program is a Graziano ballet that no one as yet has seen, as it is another Sarasota Ballet world premiere. The music to which they dance was to be composed by the artist often know by his/her initials – TBA (to be announced). However, as TBA became unavailable, a Mr. Schubert was able to fill in with his Symphony No. 2 in B-flat. Once you have seen for yourself how these dancers turn, glide and twirl, you may wish to write your own description of this new work. The third of Graziano’s celebrations is the masterpiece he wrote for the Sarasota Ballet’s performance at the Jacob’s Pillow Dance Festival, In a State of Weightlessness. The dance critic Carrie Seidman said Graziano’s “exploration of suspension, lightness and ethereality was so mesmerizing, it seemed to go by in a heartbeat.” Normally Graziano would hear something in the work of a composer which would inspire him and the work he was to produce. He first choreographed this piece and then, after listening to many compositions, recognized that Philip Glass’s Tirol Concerto for Piano and Orchestra matched what he had just completed. Jeffrey Daniel pioneered the dance move he called the backslide and taught it to Michael Jackson who called it the moonwalk. While everyone loved it, it was just walking. Graziano takes it to the ultimate level where multiple SB dancers seem to perform on the moon itself, not just walking backwards under it. More info at Sarasotaballet.org.
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Conveniently located across from public access #12, we carry everything you need so your vacation time is spent making memories. Visit our deli and cafe for delicious food and drinks, grab your beach gear, or stock up on beer, wine, snacks and key lime pie. We have a full selection of groceries for a perfect island stay!
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JANUARY 2024
Siesta Sand
Florida Fish of Siesta Key
Red Snapper Florida Puffer Yellowtail Florida Puffer Sailfish Sailfish Spanish Mackerel Dohlpin “Mahi-Mahi”
Mangrove Snapper Scoolmaster Lane Snapper Scamp Black Mullet Snook Red Drum “Redfish”
Tarpon
Baracuda
Gulf Flounder
Florida Pompano Jack Crevalle
AmberJack
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Capt. Rick Grassett’s Fishing Forecast CB’s Saltwater Outfitters (941) 923-7799
Y
ou may find reds along with big trout concentrated in potholes, along the edges of bars or tailing on shallow grass flats on negative low tides this month. This is a good month for catch-and-release snook action around lighted docks in the Intracoastal Waterway. Some lights will also have trout and reds making it possible to get a dock “slam.” There may also be good action in the coastal gulf with false albacore (little tunny), Spanish mackerel, and tripletail -- depending on conditions. However, catch-and-release snook fishing around lighted docks can be good this month unless it gets too cool. I won’t target snook following a strong cold front or if the water dips below 60 degrees, since they may be stressed at that time. However, it can be very good this time of year under normal conditions. Larger baitfish will thin out and snook will gorge themselves on glass minnows and small shrimp in the Intracoastal Waterway at night. I like docks that have a good tidal flow and deep water under them. CAL jigs with shad tails and jerk worms, DOA Tiny TerrorEyz and DOA Shrimp are my favorite lures for snook at night. Fly anglers should do well with sink tip fly lines and small white flies. Fish peak tidal flows for the fastest action. You might find reds in potholes or along the edges of flats and bars on negative low tides. They may also tail on shallow grass when the tide is low. Weedless rigged CAL shad tails and 4-inch jerk worms, DOA Shrimp and lightly weighted flies with weed guards will work well in that situation. As the tide rises, reds will spread out and feed on shallow flats. You may also find them around docks this month. I usually let the stage of the tide tell me where to look for reds. You may also find big trout in skinny water this month in many of the same areas where you find reds. The same lures and techniques that I use for reds will also work for trout in the same areas. You should also find trout on deep grass flats this month along with blues, flounder or pompano. Blues may sometimes feed on the surface, so bird activity may give their presence away. Pompano may skip when you drift or run past them and when that happens, circle back upwind and drift through the area casting ahead of your drift. Flounder prefer a mix of sand and grass, particularly in potholes or on the edges of bars. I like to drift and cast ahead of my drift with CAL jigs and a variety of plastic tails or DOA Deadly Combos. Fly anglers should score with sink tip fly lines and weighted flies, like Clousers or my Grassett Deep Flats Bunny fly, which behaves like a jig with a shad tail. I like to fish shallow flats for
From top left and clockwise: Pat Beckwith with a bluefish, Cliff Ondercin with a snook, Marshall Dinerman with a redfish, Joe Grassett with a big jack, and Denny Clohisy and Dan Patterson with tripletails. (submitted photos)
reds and snook and deep grass flats that are close to passes, on points and along sandbars for trout, blues, flounder and pompano right now. There should still be some action in the coastal gulf with Spanish mackerel, blues, false albacore and tripletail. Rough or cold water later in the month may slow the action and move fish south or offshore. Look for terns either diving or hovering low over the surface of the water to find albies, blues and mackerel feeding on the surface. Once you’ve found them, cast top water plugs or CAL jigs with shad tails to catch them. Fly anglers should score with glass minnow fly patterns, poppers or Crease flies. Sometimes top water plugs or fly poppers will draw fish to the surface, especially over structure. You’ll need to add wire or heavy fluorocarbon to your leader
when blues and mackerel are around. Look for tripletail around crab trap floats or channel markers. Once you’ve located a fish, work back into the wind or current with an electric trolling motor to get into casting range and cast a DOA shrimp, a weedless-rigged CAL shad tail or lightly weighted fly with a weed guard to them. Try to make your first shot count since they are much tougher to catch once they know you’re there. There will be lots of options right now, although weather becomes more of a factor. When fishing flats, I usually let conditions and the stage of the tide determine when, where and what I will target. I like to fish the coastal gulf for false albacore and tripletail whenever conditions are good.
JANUARY 2024 TIDE CHART
Spotted Sea Trout
www.USHarbors.com
Sarasota, FL - Jan 2024
Cobia
High
Date
ft
PM
ft
AM
ft
PM
ft
Rise
Set
Mon
2:27
1.6
4:47
1.2
10:41
-0.1
10:34
0.7
7:18
5:48
2
Tue
3:28
1.4
5:12
1.3
11:13
0.1
11:58
0.6
7:19
5:49
3
Wed
4:44
1.1
5:39
1.4
11:46
0.3
7:19
5:49
4
Thu
6:26
0.9
6:10
1.6
1:19
0.3
12:17
0.5
7:19
5:50
5
Fri
8:28
0.9
6:44
1.7
2:31
0.1
12:48
0.7
7:19
5:51
6
Sat
10:31
0.9
7:22
1.8
3:34
-0.2
1:15
0.9
7:19
5:51
7
Sun
8:05
1.9
4:29
-0.4
7:19
5:52
8
Mon
8:53
2.1
5:20
-0.6
7:20
5:53
9
Tue
9:43
2.2
6:08
-0.8
7:20
5:54
10
Wed
10:35
2.3
6:55
-0.9
7:20
5:54
11
Thu
11:29
2.3
7:40
-1.0
5:05
1.0
7:20
5:55
12
Fri
3:15
1.0
8:24
-1.0
6:16
0.9
7:20
5:56
13
Sat
12:23
2.3
3:29
1.0
9:05
-0.8
7:27
0.8
7:20
5:57
14
Sun
1:19
2.1
3:47
1.0
9:45
-0.6
8:42
0.6
7:20
5:58
15
Mon
2:19
1.9
4:08
1.2
10:21
-0.3
10:03
0.5
7:20
5:58
16
Tue
3:27
1.5
4:34
1.3
10:54
0.0
11:30
0.3
7:20
5:59
17
Wed
4:51
1.2
5:04
1.5
11:24
0.3
7:19
6:00
18
Thu
6:47
0.9
5:41
1.7
1:01
0.0
11:48A
0.6
7:19
6:01
19
Fri
9:30
0.8
6:25
1.8
2:28
-0.2
11:55A
0.8
7:19
6:02
20
Sat
7:16
1.9
3:45
-0.4
7:19
6:02
21
Sun
8:13
1.9
4:48
-0.6
7:19
6:03
22
Mon
9:11
1.9
5:41
-0.7
7:18
6:04
23
Tue
10:04
1.9
6:26
-0.7
7:18
6:05
24
Wed
2:23P
1.0
10:51
1.9
7:04
-0.7
4:50
1.0
7:18
6:06
25
Thu
2:25P
1.0
11:34
1.9
7:37
-0.7
5:48
0.9
7:17
6:06
26
Fri
2:28
1.0
8:05
-0.6
6:38
0.8
7:17
6:07
27
Sat
12:14
1.8
2:33
1.0
8:31
-0.5
7:27
0.7
7:17
6:08
28
Sun
12:54
1.7
2:42
1.1
8:54
-0.4
8:18
0.5
7:16
6:09
29
Mon
1:36
1.6
2:56
1.2
9:18
-0.2
9:10
0.4
7:16
6:10
30
Tue
2:22
1.4
3:16
1.4
9:40
0.0
10:07
0.3
7:15
6:10
31
Wed
3:15
1.2
3:39
1.5
10:02
0.2
11:09
0.2
7:15
6:11
1
Black Drum
Catfish
King King Mackerel Mackerel
Blue Marlin
Black Grouper
Sheesphead
Low
AM
3:04P
1.0
Moon
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The Original Fun Tiki Cruises, Sandbars, and Sunsets! SAVE 15% on your Tiki Cruise! (Valid January 2024, call for discount)
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Book online at cruisintikissarasota.com 941-253-5404
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Siesta Sand
JANUARY 2024
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The Nov. 25 holiday parade in the Village featured big crowds and bright, bold participants. This year’s winners are (from upper left and clockwise): Christmas Spirit Award, Key Life Charters; Originality, Siesta Key Wine Bar; Best Decor and Lighting, Parasail Siesta Key; Most Festive, Siesta Key Beach Resort & Suites. (photos courtesy of Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce)
GIFT CERTIFICATES For The NEW YEAR! Mention Siesta Sands for… $20 off any Key Sailing Gift Certificate! $50 off any two Key Sailing Gift Certificates! Call Tim and Jan at 941-346-7245 for details! siestakeysailing@gmail.com www.siestakeysailing.com Key Sailing is the current Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Small Business of the Year!
Tim and Jan are celebrating the 50th anniversary of their first beach kiss on our SIESTA SANDS! The SMOOTH SAILING began immediately with sailing classes at Sarasota High School. They “retired” in 2007 by purchasing the Key Breeze and have taken over 45,000 guests sailing. YOU could be next !
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KEY COCKTAILS
Online Ordering for Take out and Delivery
Roberts Bay Breakfast Toast the new year with a drink we call Roberts Bay Breakfast. Simple, yet delicious and easy to make, this Siesta Key Rum cocktail can be enjoyed all year long. The rich coffee flavor of Siesta Key Coffee Rum blends softly with the warm sweet maple syrup and that ever so slight dash of chocolate bitters makes it a drink that you’ll want to share with our guests many times over. It’s a perfectly magical toast to the new year! Enjoy it as you celebrate and ring in the new year. This Siesta Key Rum cocktail will surely be one of your favorites for years to come. Ingredients
2 oz Siesta Key Coffee Rum 1/2 oz maple syrup (We like Crown: Bourbon Barrel Aged Maple Syrup) 2 dashes of chocolate bitters Creates 1 serving Preparation Shake over ice and serve in a martini glass. Key Cocktails is sponsored by Siesta Key Rum, Florida’s finest craft rum producer that uses all natural ingredients in its distillery process. Siesta Key Rums are smooth enough to be enjoyed on their own but also make a great base for cocktails!
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UNIVERSITY PARK
8235 Cooper Creek Blvd, University Park, FL 941-359-4816
SARASOTA LANDINGS
4956 S Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 941-927-2270
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Sarasota's Favorite Diner!
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Since 1972
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Siesta Sand
JANUARY 2024
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Breakfast & Lunch
Serving breakfast all day Hours of operation 7:30am-1:30pm VOTED BEST
Breakfast, Outdoor Dining and Bacon!
Sun Garden Cafe 210 Avenida Madera Siesta Key 941.346.7170 sungardencafe.com
Yoga returning Jan. 9 to Turtle Beach
Julie Phillips-Turner will once again host yoga classes on Siesta Key’s Turtle Beach, starting Jan. 9. Classes will be from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. every Tuesday and Thursday. A minimum donation of $5 is requested. Students are encouraged to bring their own mats or towels, along with bottled water. For more information about location or registration, please e-mail Julie at: julie@ chesapeakeyoga.com. Classes will not be held in case of red tide effects, rain, high winds, or temperatures below 50 degrees.
T-SHIRTS • SWEATSHIRTS • SOUVENIRS
5131 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Key Village 941-349-3490
Big G’s Oyster Happy Hour from 3-6 Every day 1/2 Priced House Oysters
Siesta Key Oyster Bar, or “SKOB” as the locals call it, is the hangout with the laid-back, beachy atmosphere that will get you right into the Island Spirit. One of the things that set SKOB apart from the other restaurants in Siesta Key Village is that we have some of the best food on the Key.
Live Music Every Day and Night
The next meeting of the Siesta Key Association civic group is at 4:30 p.m. Jan. 4 at St. Boniface Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Rd. Visit siestakeyassociation.com for details.
A shiny My-Huong Ta (center) enjoys some festive times with party guests Mark Cole (left) and Charles Lehnert at her annual holiday party at her Siesta Village Dentistry business in Davidson Plaza. (photo by Jane Bartnett)
WHAT BETTER WAY TO START YOUR DAY IN PARADISE! • Organic and Fair Trade Coffees & Teas • Cold Pressed Coffee • Organic Smoothies • Light Lunch (Sandwiches) • Breakfast Sandwiches, Bagels & Lox • Homemade Pastries
941-260-6400
Coffee Shop • Tea Room • 5138 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key Village MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store........................................Map-E #6 Morton’s Siesta Market................... Map-C #25 MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage...................Map-B #35 The Spa at Calle Minorga..................Map-E #74 Sassy ... the Little Day Spa.............Map-D #62
COFFEE SHOPS Bean Coffeehouse............................Map-D #62 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company........ Map-B #31 Project Coffee.....................................Map-D #9
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Attorney Fleming.................................Map-E #1 Edward Jones Investments.............Map-D #68 Smith Architects................................... Map-E 74
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
REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Amy Robinson RE................................Map-E #1 Beach Palms................................................... B-74 Coldwell Banker Realty.................... Map-D #20 EXP Realty............................................Map-E #4 Judith Guzzi & Assoc........................Map-E #74 Keller Williams Real Estate.............. Map-D #11 Michael Saunders Realty.................Map-E #72 ReMax Alliance Group................... Map-C #29 RentSiestaKey.com.............................. Map-D #9 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate....... Map-A #39 Siesta Key Rental Prop..................... Map-D #10 The Ringling Beach House Rentals......Map-D #9 Tropical Sands Accommodations....... Map-D #67
HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ............... Map-D #10 Siesta Healing...................................... Map-D #9 Siesta Key Fitness............................ Map-B #73 ICE CREAM/SWEETS Big Olaf Creamery............................ Map-C #52 Curly Cream Ice Cream...................... Map-D #9 Kilwins ...............................................Map-D #60 Made in Rome Organic Gelato........ Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts....................... Map-C #24 Stefano Versace Gelato..................... Map-C #50 The Fudge Factory............................ Map-A #36 JEWELRY Created Gems.................................... Map-C #51 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers................ Map-D #9
Daily Drink Specials
Siesta Key Association meets Jan. 4
MEDICAL - DENTAL Siesta Village Dentistry.................... Map-D #63 Siesta Dental........................................Map-B #49 Siesta Key Physical Therapy............ Map-D #20
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
LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club....................Map-D #70 Gilligan’s........................................... Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wine Bar........................ Map-C #61 Siesta Village Liquors..................... Map-C #26 The Beach Club.................................. Map-D #22
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More than 24,000 people attended November’s four-day Siesta Key Crystal Classic International Sand Sculpting Festival, according to numbers collected by the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce. A portion of the proceeds from the event will go toward scholarships at the Ringling College of Art and Design and that donation will be presented at the chamber’s annual awards dinner, set for Jan. 31 at Marina Jack. Additional donations will be made at that time to the Humane Society of Sarasota and All Faths Food Bank in memory of former chamber employee Mia Leone, who passed away in September. The dates for the 2024 Crystal Classic have been set for Nov. 15 through 18.
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
GAS STATION Circle K Store........................................Map-E #6
27th State Media LLC
MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce...................Map-D #67 Prime Audio Video..............................Map-E #1 Roberti Enterprises........................... Map-A #39 Village Arcade................................... Map-C #53
RESTAURANTS / CAFÉS Another Broken Egg................ Map-C #54 & 55 Blase Café..........................................Map-A #38 Bonjour French Cafe......................... Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano................................... Map-D #71 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar.............. Map-B #42-43 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar.................Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante...............Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill......... Map-B #33 Island House Bar & Grill................Map-D #69 Lobster Pot......................................... Map-C #23 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company........ Map-B #31 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub..................Map-E #2 PI Pizza & Craft Beer.........................Map-A #3 Ripfire Pizza........................................Map-B #47 Siesta Key Oyster Bar...................... Map-B #45 IL PANCIFICO.................................Map-D #15 Summer House.................................. Map-C #57 Sun Garden Café............................... Map-D #19 The Cottage........................................ Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill.......................... Map-C #59 The Star Thai Sushi.................. Map-D #17 & 18 Village Café.......................................Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY Sassy Hair Salon...............................Map-A #40 Sassy ... the Little Day Spa.............Map-D #62 Siesta Key Nails & Spa.....................Map-D #9 Shaman Sanctuary Salon.................... Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida.......................................... Map-C #29 Robin Hood Rentals........................ Map-B #34
é Ca s a l
fé
LET US CUSTOMIZE SHIRTS FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT!
ATM / BANKS PNC ATM........................................... Map-C #61 Sun Trust Bank & ATM.......................Map-E #4
JANUARY 2024
Crystal Classic enjoys big numbers
CUSTOMIZE YOUR OWN SHIRT FROM HUNDREDS OF DESIGNS
ACCOMMODATIONS Beach Palms ........................................................ B-#74 Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa............. Map-A #38A
941.312.0665
Island Chatter
Andrew Monroe memorial walk-run event is Jan. 14 on Siesta Beach
In honor of the life of Andrew Monroe, the annual Andrew Monroe Memorial Scholarship 5K Walk/Run was established for the benefit of senior soccer players at Riverview High School in Sarasota. The event, now in its 10th year, will be held Jan. 14 on Siesta Beach with same-day registration from 6 to 8 a.m. A chip-timed 5K begins at 8:15 a.m.; the 1-mile fun Andrew Monroe walk at 8:20 a.m. The race is sanctioned by the Manasota Track Club. The proceeds from the event also go toward the Andrew Monroe Memorial Scholarship Fund through the Sarasota Community Foundation. During the last 10 years it has generated more than $100,000 in scholarships. Register at andrewmonroe.com/ registration. Please bring a can or two of food for Mayors Feed the Hungry. Monroe lost his life in a car crash in 2011.
www.siestasand.us
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HAPPY HOUR 5-6 PM Daily
& Martini Bar
941.349.9822 theblasecafe.com
HAPPY HOUR
2 - 6 pm Daily
3.14 PI
$5 Wells $2.50 Bud Light Drafts
Awesome pizza, wings & bartenders!
941.346.1188 siestapi.com
TWO GREAT ONELOCATION! LOCATION! TWO GREATPLACES PLACES ONE 5263 SiestaKey Key 5263Ocean Ocean Blvd. || Siesta
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Siesta Sand
BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club.......................................... C-3 #13 Shebeen Irish Pub & Kitchen....................C-3 #17
Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 COFFEE SHOPS Coffee Garden................................... B-3 #8 Meaney’s Mini Donuts..............................B-3 #4 DELIS / BAKERIES Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 Crescent Beach Market ..........................B-3, #1 Nutritious You......................................... C-3 #14 DRUG STORES Davidson Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Fin Island Co.............................................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Resort Wear...............................B-3 #1
941.312.0665
CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX
Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14 Key Casual Fashions.............................. D-3 #17 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Capt. Curt’s Souvenirs.............................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Shells & Gifts................. C-3 #14 Sunshine Sand Hidden Treasures...... D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Eye Style Optical ....................................C-3 #17 Sanctuary Siesta Key............................... A-5 #12 Siesta Key Salon & Spa........................... D-3 #17 The Key Spa & Salon.............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus ........................................B-3 #8 Jake’s Creamery....................................... C-3 #14 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14
LIQUOR STORES Crescent Club...........................................B-3 #13 Siesta Spirits............................................. C-3 #17 MAILING & SHIPPING Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 US Post Office Sub Station..................... C-3 #14 MARKETS 7-11 Store.................................................. C-3 #16 Big Water Fish Market.......................... C-3 #17 Crescent Beach Market ..........................B-3, #1 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Beckmann Properties.............................. C-2 #15 Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Re/Max Platinum Realty........................ C-3 #17 Siesta 4-Rent............................................ C-3 #14 Waterside Realty.................................... C-3 #17 RESTAURANTS / CAFES
www.siestasand.us
Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill...............A-5 #12 Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7
Clayton’s Siesta Grille.............................B-3 #9
Daiquiri Deck.................................................A-3 #2
Pizza ‘N Brew Siesta Key...................... D-3 #17 Shebeen Irish Pub & Kitchen....................C-3 #17 Spearfish Grille...............................................A-4 #5 Toasted Mango Cafe....................................C-3 #17
Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 FIN Island Co. ........................................... A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta........................................... A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak ........................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina.................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Key Jetski ........................................ A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14
Big Water Fish Market................................C-3 #17
BREAKFAST and LUNCH
SERVED ALL DAY Full
Siesta Key
Breakfast
B
es tD
ine r
in Flo rida
MSN Food and Drink Jan. 2015
and
Lunch Menu
All Natural
Fresh Fruit and Veggie
Smoothies
Stop By and Say Hi!
Beer, Wine and
Bloody Marys
6621 Midnight Pass Road Just S. of Stickney Pt. Road
941-552-6485 Open 7 Days A Week ~ 7 AM - 3 PM
Nobody in the World Sells More Real Estate!
www.ToastedMangoCafe.com
Home of the Orange Squeeze HAND MADE:
941.346.0202
• Ice Cream • Sundaes • Shakes
www.orangeoctopusicecream.com
OPEN DAILY 11AM - 10PM
1220 Old Stickney Point Road
To advertise in Siesta Sand, call 941-312-0665
The Sniki Tiki
Tiki Bar Come for Cocktails, Daiquiris, and great food at our Outdoor Tiki Bar—stay for daily live music and twice weekly Karaoke
Food & Drinks ‘til 12am Located in Captain Curt’s Village, under the giant American Flag
“A Tropical Department Store“
THE GREEN TURTLE SHELL & GIFT CITY
$
Siesta Key’s Most Friendly & Unique Shopping Spot! SOUTHBRIDGE MALL
CRESCENT BEACH
T
SIESTA KEY
Siesta Key’s Largest Seashell & Coral Selection!
Home of the World’s Best Clam Chowder
GIFTS & SOUVENIRS BEACH FASHIONS BEACH SUPPLIES BEACH COVER-UPS LADIES & JUNIORS FASHIONS SUPER MEN'S LINE In South Bridge Mall
6525 Midnight Pass Road
MAP B-3#14
349-4751
green TURTLE COUPON
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www.siestasand.us
Stokes
941.312.0665
JANUARY 2024
27th State Media LLC
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North Florida, Stokes began her career, as she became highly experienced in managing and recruiting Sarasota-area volunteers for the YMCA, the Food Bank of Manatee, Special Olympics, and The Haven, a non-profit Sarasota-based organization for children and adults with disabilities. “Brittany is very passionate and knowledgeable about the value and importance of volunteering and community service,” said Ann Frescura, executive director of the chamber. “She is an asset to our chamber team. We feel fortunate to have her join us.” As the tourist season gets underway, Stokes is launching her campaign to spread the word about the benefits of volunteering with the chamber. “Being a part of the Visitor Center and taking part in the many activities that the chamber offers throughout the year is so rewarding,” she said. “We’re posting about volunteering on all the Siesta Key walking and running groups, “I love Siesta Key,” and other popular Facebook groups. “We’ll be following up with our many Siesta Key Crystal Classic Sand Sculpting Festival volunteers and encouraging them to continue to work with us. We’re really excited about increasing our volunteer ranks.” There are currently 15 active volunteers but Stokes hopes to bring those numbers back up to the prepandemic numbers of 40 or more. “We have the need for many more volunteers,” she said. Each year, more than 10,000 visitors walk through the doors of the Visitor Center in Davidson Plaza. Volunteers are the first people that those visitors meet as they staff the desk, take calls, and respond to email inquiries from visitors from around the world. On a December afternoon, Stokes was working with Heidi Natt, a new volunteer who had recently relocated to Sarasota from Michigan. She had heard that the Crystal Classic needed volunteers and, after working at the event, stayed on. “It’s so great to have a place to go and to meet such nice people,” said Natt. Fellow volunteer Mike Netkovick, a veteran of the Visitor Center, came to Sarasota from his native New England. “You give something back and you meet new people. It goes both ways. People tend to overestimate the skill and time that’s involved,” he said.
Brittany Stokes on duty in a Siesta Beach lifeguard station, circa 2003. (submitted photo)
Said Stokes, “Mike is a great ambassador for the program.” She noted that some volunteers only work during the tourist season and some only work in off-season. “It’s fun and a great way to learn about the area, the businesses that operate on Siesta Key, and you get to meet wonderful people,” Stokes said. And for newcomers, both volunteers agreed, it’s a perfect opportunity. In the weeks ahead, Stokes plans to have her Visitor Center volunteers shadow chamber staff members for two hours a week. She also hopes to arrange visits to chamber members’ places of business. The goal is to have the volunteers learn as much as possible about all that Siesta Key has to offer. “Such interesting people come through our doors,” said Stokes. “The funny thing is that they have all the same questions that I was asked as a lifeguard.” To learn more about volunteering with the Siesta Key Visitor Center, located at 5114 Ocean Blvd., complete an online application form at siestakeychamber.com. Or, contact Stokes at info@ siestakeychamber.com or call her at (941) 349-3800. The center’s hours are Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Brown pelican (Limosa fedoa) Known for its distinctive pouched bill and portly stance, the brown pelican is one of Florida’s largest seabirds. With a span of 6 to 8 feet, powerful wings propel the pelican as high as 60 feet above water before executing a daring high-dive to catch fish below the surface. When this behemoth hits the water at 40 mph, you may wonder how it could possibly survive such a dangerous feat. The pelican’s signature twist-to-the-left arc during its near-vertical dive protects its eyes and windpipe from being crushed by the head-on impact with the water. The pelican’s pouch expands like a parachute under water not only
to slow the bird’s descent but also to trap the tasty fish spotted from high overhead. When they are not plunging in high dive fashion, groups of brown pelicans are often observed to glide gracefully, low and slow, in singlefile lines just above the waves. They are highly social birds in breeding in colonies that can number in the thousands of pairs. A pair may build their nest on the ground using a simple scrape technique or in a tree using sticks. Either way, the male gathers the nesting materials while the female constructs the nest for a clutch of two to four eggs. Jan Baumgartner’s handmade notecards are available at Sunshine & Sand Hidden Treasures, 6635 Midnight Pass Rd., in Crescent Plaza.
DINE WIT H U S
Beer • Wine • Pizzeria • Wings Subs • Salads • Catering
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED, SERVING SARASOTA SINCE 1991 941-800-5570 • 215 Avenida Madera • Siesta Key Curbside Pickup • Delivery • Dine-In • PanificioUSA.com
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Siesta Sand
JANUARY 2024
941.312.0665
www.siestasand.us
DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT TRANSITIONS® LENSES
N LY
Veteran Owned
EYES P TIC A L B O U T IQ U E
MENTION THIS AD FOR A GIFT
6541 Superior Ave. • Sarasota, FL 34231
BRING YOUR EYEGLASS PRESCRIPTION TO US!
FREE While Supply Lasts FRAMES Pay For Lenses Only From selected collection.
Our boutique offers a wide range of unique, vintage, modern & trendy eyewear. Let our optician help you find a perfect match!
941-444-7984
GULFGATE Business District Onlyeyesopticalboutique.com Varilux, Crizal, Transitions and more. WE WILL MEET OR BEAT ANY PRICES!
We’re So Much More Than Frozen Yogurt!
20% OFF FIRST TIME CUSTOMERS
FROYO: The guilt-free classic packed with probiotics GELATO: A fancy shmancy name for lowfat ice cream SORBET: Sorta like a non-dairy soft serve snow cone SKINNY 8: Froyo 8 CALORIES per ounce! VEGAN: A dairy free froyo
6616 Gateway Ave • Sarasota
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
www.ilovetheskinnydip.com • 941-923-6680
Roberts Realty
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. 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 Mondaythru 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 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. 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.
Blooming this month: Cuban buttercup
John Garner Broker Associate
Diane Shane Broker Associate
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
Siesta Coin Laundry High Vibration Boho Boutique PSYCHIC + TAROT READINGS + Yoga CBD + DELTA-8 THC CRYSTALS + JEWELRY + Apparel Metaphysical Gifts + Apothecary
6557 Superior Avenue Sarasota, FL 34231 941.312.5630 wildgingerapothecary.com View schedule & book online!
FB | Instagram | YouTube | Google @wildgingerapothecary
Open Daily 7am - 10pm Last Wash 9pm
941.924.0722 6640 Superior Ave Sarasota, FL 34231 We appreciate your business!
Drop-off laundry service available
Yellow, five-petaled buttercuplike flowers bloom prolifically on this butterfly bush. Commonly called Cuban Buttercup or yellow alder. Growing buttercup bushes provide continued blossoms. Botanically called Turnera ulmifolisa, this spreading ground cover or small bush brightens up bare spots in the landscape with bright yellow flowers that bloom in the morning and last all day. The rewards of growing buttercup bushes are abundant
flowers and the attractive, ovalshaped, serrated evergreen foliage. The Cuban buttercup attracts pollinator butterflies and bees. This bush reaches about 2 to 3 feet in height and width, and is a nice addition in a butterfly garden. This is a drought-resistant plant and grows best in full sun. Currently in bloom in the Butterfly Garden at Sarasota Garden Club, 1131 Boulevard of the Arts. For more information go to SarasotaGardenClub.org.
www.siestasand.us
941.312.0665
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KRINGLE
Danish Pastry Made in Racine, WI The Original O&H Danish Kringle
OV E R 1 5 F L AVO R S T O CHOOSE FROM Oldest barbershop in Gulf Gate, styling all the locals since the 60’s.
Our barbers bring over 100 years combined experience and local knowledge to your haircut. We’ve seen and heard it all. Swing by and we can have a laugh, drink a beer, and figure out all the problems in your life. If we like you, it’s $22, if you’re a P.I.T.A. its $45+
Voted “Best Local Barber Shop” 20 years running. Ask for Al, Anthony, or Kyle
6575 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231 941-809-9028 Walk-ins Welcome
Beautiful Scandinavian Crystal & China Colorful Kitchen Linens and Cooking Accessories Quality Imported Candles, Jewelery, Greeting Cards Christmas Collectibles • Scandinavian Grocery
2166 Gulf Gate Dr. • 941-923-4313 Open Monday through Saturday from 10am - 5pm
Scandinavian-South.com
Organic Skincare HOTTEST BAR
Vitamins & Minerals Homeopathy Hangover Remedies Essential Oils • Enzymes Protein Shakes and more!
IN GULF GATE... MLB/College Packages FULL BAR 6608 Gateway Ave., Gulf Gate
941.554.8623
naturalapothecaryshoppe.com
25% OFF 6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905
with this ad
(certain restricitions apply. Valid through December 31, 2023)
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Siesta Sand
JANUARY 2024
941.312.0665
www.siestasand.us
New home for farmers market, same great atmosphere
New Service Add-on!
CBD Therapy $ 20 *
Add to your next massage!
4948 South Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941.336.6191 *Restrictions may apply. See Retreat for details.
The Siesta Key Farmers Market has moved to a new location in the Village, now next to Beach Bazaar and the gazebo. Previously the operation was held in the parking lot of Davidson Plaza. Join the vendors every Sunday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. for a variety of offerings and great live music. (submitted photos)
www.siestasand.us
941.312.0665
Campers Continued from page 1V Canada, down the U.S. west coast, and eastward from Pacific to Atlantic. Now it was the 213th day of an epic odyssey celebrating their retirement. “We’ll go on through April,” he said. “Where next? I don’t know.” From WalMart parking lots to national parks, they’d seen it all. But Turtle Beach stood out for them with its cozy size and, of course, the beach a few steps away: “Everything is great,” Gunther concluded. Small size and proximity to surf and sand are indeed among the leading draws of the countyowned facility, said its daily overseer, parks and recreation specialist Martin Haire. “We have a public beach right next door,” he said. “It’s a very niche campground,” added manager Greg Steinberg. “There are very few places like this; it’s a rare find on the east coast. For the price you can’t beat it.” That price, including taxes and fees, is $74 a night in season. The price, the cozy (1.8 acre) size, and the Gulf make Turtle Beach a hot ticket: in peak season, reservations can be needed a year in advance. The offerings include hookups to electrical service, water, sewer and cable. The grounds offer the amenities campers expect: Wi-Fi, hot showers, a wooded picnic area, washers and dryers, and a playground. For those who prefer to rough it a bit less, three restaurants are within walking distance Then there’s the Siesta Key extras: kayak launches and rentals next door, and the free trolley to the Village. It’s not for everyone: the compact size rules out extra-large motor homes and rigs, but most vehicles do fit. And while your neighbors may be quite close, they will likely be … neighborly. Visitors seem to like the life: many families and couples return annually. Stays run from a weekend minimum to a maximum of any 30 days out of a 45-day period. Their needs are tended to not only by Haire and Steinberg, but by a volunteer camp host who, in exchange for a free stay, checks campers in and out and provides basic maintenance. For December and January, that volunteer is Rick Mangold of Gulf Gate, accompanied by his partner Judy Eidge. “I’m like a maître d’,” he explained. “I make sure everyone is happy.” When he’s not keeping things tidy, he and Judy like to swim, fish and bike. The gig’s appeal, he said, is “the people – everyone is on vacation and in a good mood. People love to be here.” That included Denis and Louise St. Amour of Gatineau, Quebec, sitting outside their 21-foot Roadtrek RV and planning their evening meal. It might be pasta, fajitas or tacos, they said, cooked on the RV’s propane stove or the electric grill outside. Or, they might just make it an evening out. “We walk every day,” Louise said. “Everything is accessible.” Count the St. Amours as among the happy campers of Turtle Beach Campground. They’ve already booked their stay for next year.
5157 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key Village www.sarasotalobsterpot.com
FREE HOUSE WINE OR DRAFT BEER WITH A PURCHASE OF A DINNER ENTREE One free house wine or draft beer per coupon. One coupon per table.
JANUARY 2024
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From left and clockwise: the entryway to the Turtle Beach Campground; camp host Rick Mangold is always prepared to keep things looking good; Denis and Louise St. Amour relax outside their camper; Gunther and Annette Schiedmeyer do the same from the inside as their long journey continues; the cookout and picnic area. (photos by Ned Steele)
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Siesta Sand
JANUARY 2024
941.312.0665
www.siestasand.us
Happy Fish Year Big Water
Fish Market Retail Market & Restaurant
MONDAY: 1 free domestic beer or glass of wine w/ purchase of ‘Chef-Specialty’ TACO Tuesday: 3 TACOS for price of 2 (grouper or shrimp). Hog fish available for upcharge Wine Wednesday: All Wine ½ off Thursday LOBSTER ROLL DAY -LOBSTER OSCARGrilled black grouper topped w/ lobster & chefs bearnaise rice & asparagus Fun Friday: Chef's Surprise Special
6641 Midnight Pass Rd, Crescent Plaza
941-554-8101 11 AM- 9 PM Daily
www.bigwaterfishmarket.com