Siesta Sand- October 2023

Sea ClubV wants to rebuild

Commissioner Smith advocates for what he feels are fair voluntary demolition rules

By ChrisAnn Allen

It started in early 2022 for Sea Club V.

The resort, located at 6744 Sarasea Circle on Siesta Key, is rife with structural deficiencies. Representatives from the complex, working with District 2 Commissioner Mark Smith, also a Siesta Key architect, are attempting to ignite a process which would allow voluntary demolition to rebuild the 41unit timeshare property before things go from bad to worse.

Sarasota County is facing the question of whether it is better to rebuild to code in the wake of a disaster or clear the rubble before the damage occurs.

During a Jan. 11, 2022 commissioners meeting, Smith said a structural engineering report on Sea Club V showed structural deterioration. “They’ve been putting Band-Aids on their buildings for years,” Smith said.

Smith

Since the 2022 discussion, county staff has met with stakeholders and considered amendments to both the comprehensive plan, the county’s guiding document for growth and development, and the unified development code, which includes zoning and land development regulations.

In an April 11 letter to county planner Everett Farrell regarding the potential amendment, Sea Club V property manager Tony Rateni wrote: “It would be better to encourage structurally non-conforming buildings to voluntarily be demolished and rebuilt to today’s codes than to have them

Continued on page 22

Lost, or just relocated?

With history repeating itself, to some extent, the beach at the southern part of Siesta Key has been impacted by a hurricane shortly after being renourished.

In March of 2016, more than 700,000 cubic yards of sand were added to the area around Turtle Beach to offset erosion. In early September of that

By John Morton

year, Hurricane Hermine washed a good amount of that away.

Fast forward to April of 2023, when more than 90,000 cubic yards of sand were trucked in to the area to replace what was lost by Hermine. On Aug. 30, did Hurricane Idalia once again sweep away a significant amount of sand?

Sarasota County reports that it’s too

early to determine how much sand is gone, although the eye test certainly says the beach has changed. The wildcard, however, is whether or not the sand mostly just shifted a bit to the south and remains within reach to be salvaged.

An ominous cloud suddenly appeared along Crescent Beach to mark the beginning of Hurricane Idalia’s arrival on Siesta Key. Fortunately, the impact was limited mostly to rain and a strong storm surge that caused flooding. Sarasota County officials requested that residents evacuate the island on Aug. 29 in preparation of the Aug. 30 weather event. For more photos, turn to page 23. (photo

by Robert Schneck)

Greetings from the Gulf

Time to share a hug with one of our longtime beach buddies

By John Morton

To say that John Kames’ visit to Siesta Key this month will be bittersweet is the understatement of a lifetime.

Like so many of us, he spent his childhood family trips here and has since held on tight. His late father Bob, the fun and crazy musician who created the popular “Chicken Dance” and had a TV show in Milwaukee back in the day, came up with something even more impressive when he bought a condo at El Presidente for his wife to celebrate their 25th anniversary of marriage.

Now, son John will come all the way from southeastern Wisconsin, like he always does, to attend the annual owners meeting. And while he’s here he’ll take comfort in the hugs of old El Presidente friends -- the Hribars, the Boltes, the O’Connells, and the 50-something Dames “kids.”

“We terrorized the beach,” John said of his childhood antics with the Dames gang, whose last name conveniently rhymes with his.

“Kames and Dames. Look out!” he chuckled. “Here they come!”

By the way, the children of all those family friends now own those El Presidente condos. If you buy one here, and have kids, good luck trying to sell it!

Are you listening, father of mine?

Back to John Kames, my fellow Cheesehead. I enjoyed getting to know him a little bit by phone and will further enjoy getting to know in him person. He will likely be finding comfort in the hugs of many others while he’s here -- strangers, yes, but not really. We’ll explain that in a moment.

Anyway, John has always hoped to join the ranks of what must be hundreds of us Siesta Key vacation brats who finally decided to call our home-away-from-home our forever home.

The good news was, he had in Carol

Thurber a soulmate of a girlfriend who equally cherished our island. After each of her seven visits, something Siesta would come back to the lanai in Wisconsin. Most recently, it was a mini surfboard depicting the lifeguard stations she got at the Green Turtle gift shop.

Asking Carol to someday spend the rest of their life on Siesta Key wouldn’t be a hard sell. But first things first ...

Just a few doors down from the Green Turtle sits Silver City, home to the Siesta Key Watercolor Gemstone. You can read about it in the advertorial on page 21 in this issue.

John thought the gem would be the perfect symbol and business owner Monica Galfre set him up with an engagement ring that featured that special stone.

That night, ring in hand, he dropped to one knee on Crescent Beach as the sun dropped with him. It was May 10.

“There’s no doubt that moment is a highlight in Carol’s life,” John said.

Indeed, she was over the moon.

And when John posted photos to our most popular Siesta Key-themed Facebook page, entitled SIESTA KEY, he connected with hundreds of well-wishers that threw his way every celebratory meme known to mankind.

About that page: OK, its name isn’t the most original, but it is in all caps. So there!

And yes, it has its share of cyber bullies -- most notably, the locals shame those who say they can’t wait to be in Siesta Key.

“It’s on Siesta Key! SMH,” is the frequent response. And I must admit I’ve said it myself.

(By the way, what if we do indeed someday become a township? For example, I lived both on Fort Myers Beach, and in Fort Myers Beach, a few years back. Did I just blow your mind? Did I just send you scrambling over to TikTok?)

As for those who ask about how the weather is on Siesta Keys ... well, that’s when you show no mercy.

Mostly, however, the page is a great online lovefest of photos and memories.

Anyway, engagement bliss aside, Carol wasn’t feeling quite right toward the end of her most recent Siesta stay, commenting on how she was having trouble swallowing. She also felt fatigued.

Less than six weeks later, on July 8, Carol “took her wings,” as John wrote, in what was one of the toughest posts that members of SIESTA KEY had ever had to read. A mass in her chest had been discovered, and nonHodgkin’s lymphoma had ended her life.

“I felt it was important to let them know -- they had shared in our engagement and in other aspects of our life,” John said. “I’ve always felt that those who share Siesta Key with me are part of my family.”

Next thing John knew, more than 1,000 people expressed their sympathies via the Facebook page.

“That was very powerful, very meaningful to me,” he said. “It truly helped. The page gave me an outlet and the response gave me the feeling that I wasn’t alone. It was overwhelming.”

One response was particularly powerful. It came from Susan Rankin and included a picture of her soon-to-be husband, Eddie, proposing to her on Siesta Key -- just like John had done with Carol.

She then wrote about how he too passed away, in his case from terminal cancer, six months after their wedding.

“To have someone reach out who could relate to what I was going through -- that was a real meaningful gesture,” John said. “I’d like to meet Susan and thank her. That took a lot of courage.” ***

I’ve always liked the slogan the Save Siesta Key incorporation folks put up on their website: “Siesta Key is not just a vacation destination, it’s a community.”

It’s so true. And to have such extraordinary love and respect for a magical place no doubt brings some love and respect to one another. Yes, the secret is out about Siesta Key. But it’s also no secret that the people here are in many ways as special as the place itself.

John, I look forward to meeting you during your stay -- to big-talk about our Siesta memories and build upon a bond we already share. And you could use a real hug. Welcome back home, where you’re forever among friends. More than a thousand of them, in fact.

(John Morton is managing editor of the Siesta Sand.)

Carol and John and the Siesta Key gemstone.

Susan and Eddie.

Local burial site discovered, receives protection

Florida is teeming with prehistoric archaeological sites, one of which is situated underneath what is now a residential area of Siesta Key.

As part of a Sept. 12 meeting consent agenda, Sarasota County commissioners approved a conservation easement to protect the Lucke Midden, an archaeological feature – including a prehistoric human burial – sharing space with a modern home.

During a 2022 permitted construction and excavation project on the property at 8533 Midnight Pass Rd. the activity disturbed a portion of the Lucke Midden site, listed on the Sarasota County Register of Historic Places as a “significant historical resource.” A midden is a zone where prehistoric humans disposed of trash, such as shells from consumed mollusks, broken tools and other refuse, which is excavated to determine the lifestyle of those who lived there.

The site was named after a property owner where the original portion of the site was recorded in 1989.

The disturbance of the Lucke Midden site triggered mitigation which included monitoring of ongoing work on the property by county archaeologist Steven Koski, salvage and analysis of the artifacts and data displaced during the construction project, and

By ChrisAnn Allen

establishment of a conservation easement to give protection in perpetuity to the site.

During mitigation, human remains were identified in the midden. Pursuant to state statute, the Sarasota County Division of Historical Resources consulted with the state archaeologist and developed further mitigation including reinterment of remains on the property, to be protected by the conservation easement.

The United States Army Corps of Engineers required the conservation easement as a precondition for approving permitting for property owners John and Sharon Lacy to construct a seawall, dock, boat lift, and jet ski lift, according to Sarasota County.

The property owners declined a request for comment.

The approved easement stipulates, except for routine maintenance such as mowing, the owners will not disturb the site and will not allow digging for utilities or otherwise without approval from the Division of Historical Resources, which will inspect the property annually with 30 days’ notice given.

Continued

A conservation easement has been established alongside this home on Midnight Pass Road on the south end of the island. (photo by John Morton)

Phillippi market features new vendors

Another season begins Oct. 4 for the Phillippi Estates Farmhouse Market, which is is held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Wednesday through April. The grounds are located at 5500 S. Tamiami Trail. This fall, the market will feature 55 vendors along with live music. New vendors include:

Zefirable: Edible confection similar to marshmallow or meringue, beautifully fashioned in the likeness and colors of flowers, delicious in flavor and finely presented.

Chuco’s: Mexican flautas, nachos, burritos, quesadillas, beans, rice, salsa.

Shiny Gumbo: Authentic gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish etouffee, red beans, hot smoked sausage, black beans and corn, dirty rice.

World’s Best Guac: Authentic Cuban sandwiches made fresh to order.

Mandy’s Microgreens: Assorted microgreens, broccoli, sunflower, cilantro, beets, basil, kohlrabi, peas, swish chards, chives, and others.

First & 10 Hot Sauces: cayenne garlic, mango habanero, garlic habanero, and others.

Candy Crunch: Freeze-dried candy featuring many popular brands, including Skittles, Nerds Gummy Clusters, and Jolly Rancher.

Billi Kay Designs N Candles: Soy candles, room and linen spray, wax melts

Virginia Howell Photography: Metal prints, canvas prints, framed paper prints, cards, coasters, bags, mouse pads, post cards, bookmarks

Peachey’s Baking Co.: Amishinspired baked goods (starts in November).

-- John Morton

Your Go-To Store on the Island

Siesta Market is your one-stop shop for easy island living. We offer a large selection of staple groceries, beer and wine, as well as fresh produce, meats and seafood.

In keeping with our Morton’s tradition, we also carry a delicious array of prepared foods, perfect for take-out, picnics, parties and more.

Decision time looms nearer with hotels

By John Morton

Will any of the parties associated with the ruling against the approval of two high-density Siesta Key hotels be appealing?

Until that shakes out, a Nov. 13 trial in Sarasota County’s 12th Judicial Circuit Court seems more and more unlikely.

At this point, after Judge Hunter Carroll on Aug. 21 ruled in a summary judgment that the county violated its own comprehensive plan by misinterpreting it when voting in late 2021 to allow unlimited density, all that is left to debate in court are some minor issues to make Carroll’s ruling complete. They center around whether the county further violated its comprehensive plan regarding the discouragement of development in an evacuation zone – a matter that is secondary to the ruling involving density (the number of rooms per acre) and intensity (height, setbacks, and other building-related issues).

Meanwhile, the county commissioners on Sept. 12 voted 5-0 to accept Carroll’s ruling as final – something typically needed for the matter to be eligible for appeal.

The county, as well as the developers, have already appealed a similar state ruling in April by the Division of Administrative Hearings. In a memo to the commissioners dated Aug. 29 from County Attorney Josh Moye, he warned them that appeals of both the state ruling and circuit court ruling “will be an uphill battle.”

Carroll had given all parties

until Sept. 20 to notify his office if the November trial was needed. The lawyers for island resident Lourdes Ramirez, the victor in both cases, were to meet with the lawyers for both the county and the developers.

The developers involved have not yet publicly announced their next move. Robert Anderson, a Sarasota Realtor who was approved for an eight-story, 170room hotel on .96 acres between Calle Miramar and Beach Road near the Village, did not reply to a request for comment.

Siesta Key resident and business owner Gary Kompothecras, who was approved for a seven-story, 120-room hotel on 1.17 acres on Old Stickney Point Road near the south bridge, as well as a fivestory parking garage nearby, was uncertain of his next move but noted “There are more options available than that” when asked if he would appeal.

“Basically, the lawyers are reviewing all options. However, we aren’t going away,” Kompothecras said. “Siesta Key needs hotels on it.”

Carroll’s ruling stated that the guidelines put in place in March of 1989 are what should apply – they

limited density to 26 rooms per acre (which Carroll recalculated to 36) and a height limit of 35 feet along with details on setbacks. More legal fees, more filings Ramirez, who held a community celebration regarding Carroll’s decision at the Siesta Key Wine Bar shortly after it was rendered, continues to raise funds to pay for legal fees. She said the amount spent has reached “six figures” and she has no recourse for reimbursement in the state case. She can, however, recoup money in the county case.

Moye’s memo to commissioners indeed noted that the county could be on the hook for Ramirez’s attorney fees, per state statute, which provides for such in cases involving challenges of a comprehensive plan. He also

verbally reminded them of that during public comments in the Sept. 12 Sarasota Board of County Commissioners meeting.

But reimbursement won’t occur until after appeals play out, if indeed appeals take place.

“We hope that we continue to prevail in the circuit court case so we can at least be awarded some legal fees,” Ramirez said.

As for the state ruling, Ramirez reports that the state’s First District Court of Appeal has requested her to show cause as it examines the case, bringing additional legal expenditures and chewing up more time.

If Sarasota County doesn’t repeal its decision on unlimited density, it faces possible sanctions if deemed by the state’s Administration Commission which consists of the governor and his cabinet. That group heard from Ramirez, her attorney, and attorneys for the county and the developers in Tallahassee back in May and decided to wait on a ruling until any appeal process took place.

“The problem is now we are in limbo in the state case,” Ramirez said. “It seems the appeals court believes the Administration Commission should decide sanctions before it is appealed. I fully expect the [court] to dismiss the appeal as ‘premature.’ Then we may have to go back before the Administration Commission.”

Continued on page 28

Kompothecras Moye

An artist rendering of the three hotels approved for Siesta Key by Sarasota County commissioners. From left are Calle Miramar, Old Stickney Point Road, and 5810 Midnight Pass Rd. (submitted images)

Ramirez

Wallace calls for halt to Siesta Promenade

Siesta Key resident makes connection with state-level ruling involving hotel-related victory by fellow islander

Siesta Key resident Jim Wallace is demanding that the Siesta Promenade project be halted.

Via a letter to Sarasota County through a lawyer, he’s questioning the county’s actions by piggybacking upon a state ruling in April involving a lawsuit by fellow island resident Lourdes Ramirez.

Wallace’s letter is merely one of opposition to Siesta Promenade, but could it be a harbinger of a lawsuit? When reached

By John Morton

for comment, Wallace declined per the advice of his attorney.

The 24-acre Benderson Development mixed-use project, first approved in December of 2018 for the northwest corner of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road, will feature 414 apartments and/or condominiums, a 130-room hotel,

133,000 square feet of retail space, and 7,000 square feet of office space. Recent changes in its plans required that it go through the county’s approval process once again.

bridge, fought the Florida Department of Transportation on the installation of the signal but lost, including the denial of an appeal ruled upon in January.

Wallace

The initial approval was contingent upon the installation of a traffic signal along Stickney Point Road at Avenue B & C – a signal that has already been erected but not activated. Wallace, a resident of the Marina Del Sol condominium complex on Old Stickney Point Road near the south

In the Ramirez case, an administrative law judge with Florida’s Division of Administrative Hearings (DOAH) ruled that the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) went against its own comprehensive plan by approving

Don’t leave your IRA to the IRS

If you’ve invested in an IRA for many decades, it may well turn into a key source of income for your retirement. Still, you might not deplete your IRA in your lifetime, especially if you also have a pension or a 401(k) and other investment income. So, if your IRA still has sizable assets after your passing, it would likely end up in your estate plan. If you leave your IRA to grown children or other family members, could they be hit with a big tax bill?

Here’s a little background: Up until the Secure Act of 2019, those who inherited traditional IRAs could extend their required

Sarasota Local Brings Experience & Trust to Siesta Key

beneficiaries of inherited IRAs had only 10 years (beginning the year after death) to withdraw the entire balance. For some beneficiaries, this could potentially create a tax burden. (Inheritors of Roth IRAs are also required to follow the 10year distribution rule but are not subject to income taxes on account earnings if the Roth IRA’s five-year holding period has been met).

However, not all beneficiaries were affected by the new rules. Spouses can stretch their inherited IRA distributions over their lifetimes and exceptions exist for certain non-spouse beneficiaries. Minor children of the IRA

applies to IRAs inherited on or after Jan. 1, 2020. But due to confusion over changes to required minimum distribution (RMD) rules for some beneficiaries of inherited IRAs, the IRS waived penalties for individuals who failed to take RMDs in 2021 and 2022 and extended the RMD penalty waiver for 2023.

Although these rulings give beneficiaries — those not eligible for the exemptions listed above — more time to plan, they will eventually need to start taking RMDs, which could affect their tax situations. To help protect your heirs, consider these suggestions:

charity as the beneficiary of an IRA, rather than your family members. The charity would receive the IRA proceeds tax free, and the life insurance could then provide taxfree benefits to your heirs.

• Leaving taxable investment accounts to your heirs. Apart from your tax-deferred IRA, you may own other, fully taxable accounts containing investments such as stocks or bonds. Typically, these investments receive what’s known as a “step-up” in their cost basis once they are inherited. This means your heirs will essentially inherit all the gains your investments earned by the time of your passing — but they won’t be taxed on these gains if they sell the assets immediately. This type of sale could help offset the taxes

Continued on page 24

surrounding inherited IRAs can be complex, so consult with your tax and financial advisors before making any moves. And, as with many areas relating to inheritances, the sooner you start planning, the better.

Joe St. Onge, ChFC® Financial Advisor, Edward Jones Investments 5011 Ocean Blvd., suite 205 Siesta Key, FL 34242 (941)-346-0560 phone (941)-320-4030 mobile Joe.StOnge@edwardjones.com

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Is Gulf Gate golf course purchase on the horizon?

With no money in the budget for such a move, Sarasota County leaders look to Resilient SRQ funds as possible source

Green space is at a premium in Sarasota County. And resiliency is of prime importance.

The Sarasota Board of County Commissions is listening to residents of Gulf Gate and considering a plan to purchase a former 49-acre golf course within the neighborhood and preserve and enhance the property for stormwater storage, clean runoff into Sarasota Bay, and to potentially reduce flooding in the area.

During a Sept. 12 meeting, commissioners unanimously approved a motion by District 4 Commissioner Joe Neunder to request staff to investigate the feasibility of purchasing the golf course and present options to the board.

The property is owned by a developer but plans for residential development on the site have not materialized and have faced opposition from homeowners. Currently, there is no county funding apportioned to purchase the property. The highest appraisal of it is valued it at $4,586,000, according to a report by the county’s Public Works Department.

During a discussion later in the meeting for plans to allocate Resilient SRQ funding, a program resulting from $201 million awarded by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development as part of its Community Development Block Grant-Disaster Recovery Program to assist with Hurricane Ian recovery and mitigation efforts, District 3

Commissioner Neil Rainford shared a spreadsheet of potential projects that included $5 million for Gulf Gate stormwater flood control, mitigation, and bay preservation.

Additionally, the property lies within the Matheny Creek region, which was listed among areas potentially eligible for funding, according to a presentation by Resilient SRQ staff.

Several residents and members of both the Gulf Gate Community Association, an organization aimed at preserving the neighborhood, and the Gulf Gate Golf Course Committee spoke Sept. 12 during public comment.

Cass Smith, the beautification director for the association, said she was requesting the county pursue the available resiliency funding to purchase the golf course. “This would allow the county to begin contract negotiations with the owner, who is a willing seller,” she said, and then thanked Neunder for taking the time to tour the property and work on a funding plan.

Smith listed the benefits of purchasing the property, including the preservation of 49 acres within an urban area, stormwater flood control, and water quality improvements to mitigate the impact of development. “This would filter stormwater, which now

By ChrisAnn Allen

flows untreated into Little Sarasota Bay,” she said. “We support your action to approve this funding ASAP as time is not on our side.”

Kathy Butler, also a director of the association, emphasized the importance of an updated stormwater system. “Our stormwater conveyance system is at maximum capacity and the city master plan shows the level of service has been deficient since 1994,” she said. “Proposals to increase storage, filtering and sediment removal were never implemented.”

Miguel Rivera, a member of the golf course committee, pointed out the committee gathered more than 1,100 signatures on its petition for the county to purchase the property, and said “This is a very rare opportunity to buy such valuable land west of Beneva (Road).”

Neunder said the county has “all the right reasons” to fund the project and said it should qualify for Resilient SRQ funding. “This is an opportunity to increase our green space, stormwater management and water quality,” he said, then asked for the support of his fellow commissioners.

Said Rainford, “I think it is obviously imperative that we protect our water quality. This is an older neighborhood, and we have an opportunity to really make an impact in terms of current flooding that occurs in major events and downstream runoff.”

The golf course, which debuted in 1965, ceased operations in 2005.

The entrance to the former golf course in the Gulf Gate subdivision is fenced off and overgrown, as is the rest of the 49-acre parcel. (photos by John Morton)

Neunder

The timing was right for Bankempers

By John Morton

Maria Bankemper has taken something big off her plate, but this longtime Siesta Key gogetter still has plenty upon which to chew.

In March, she and her husband Ed sold their 114-room Best Western Plus Siesta Key Gateway hotel that stands proudly on South Tamiami Trail, just south of the Stickney Point Road intersection. The sale price was $18 million, going to Rhode Islandbased Magna Hospitality, which plans to rebrand the property into a Hilton product.

The Bankempers and Maria’s parents, under the company name M&M Lodgings, bought the hotel in 2007 when it was a Holiday Inn Express. In 2012, it transitioned into a Best Western Plus.

“Most owners and operators/ entrepreneurs, whatever we call ourselves, sell a business either due to a pressing matter or just due to timing. For us, it was definitely the latter,” Bankemper said of the sale. “Our family had owned, and my husband and I operated, the property for over 15 years, having been courted to sell on many occasions. But we didn’t feel that the time was right, nor the buyer at any of those previous times, even though the property performed well for all of us despite the many challenges that we faced -- from the Great Recession to the pandemic, and through the Gulf oil spill.

“In 2022, we were coming off of the most successful year we had ever had, despite the ongoing labor issues and various cost increases, and it was in the latter part of 2022 that Magna Hospitality came along. It all

just fell into place and we decided to move forward with the transfer of ownership. The buyers are breathing new life into the property from the lobby into the guest rooms, which is great for the entire area.”

And for those who rely upon the hotel.

“In Magna, we felt that we had found a company that would continue to serve the area and provide our current personnel employment and the chance to continue their hospitality journey, if they chose to do so. This was important to us as we navigated the process,” Bankemper added.

The headboards in those guestrooms feature a signature painting from the late Shawn McLoughlin, illustrating Maria’s ongoing connection with Siesta Key – the place where she spent most of her youth in the 1970s and ‘80s and later lived again after college. She’d go on to be chairman of both the island’s chamber of commerce and its Crystal Classic sand-sculpting event, and also played a role in the Save our Siesta Sand 2 organization that fought the dredging of

The Best Western Plus Siesta Key Gateway hotel has changed hands. It is located at 6600

Big Pass to renourish Lido Beach.

The Bankempers, who raised their children in Osprey, now reside part-time on the Key, having purchased one of their rental properties in 2021. Two years earlier, they had launched Coastal Soul Vacations and Hour Holdings, a business specializing in vacation rentals and commercial office rentals.

Plus, they stay active with local issues and volunteer on their behalf.

“We have been involved in supporting the grass roots efforts of the Siesta Key Community (organization) and Lourdes Ramirez, to assist her in her brave battle to halt the travesty of increasing density on this barrier island from the beginning of her launch,” Bankemper said. “We will continue to support her efforts as she moves through the process and we hope that, at least this time, we can save the island from further intensity, density and pressure on its infrastructure that clearly was not intended as part of the original comprehensive plan.

“It is our hope that the recent wins

regarding the density increase, that was inappropriately approved by our county commissioners, are indicative of the future success of protecting the island from one of the most egregious acts that may be launched upon it.”

Siesta Key’s quest for incorporation is another crusade they’ve supported, and they remain hopeful for the restoration of Midnight Pass -- what was once a waterway between Siesta Key and Casey Key.

“A difficult endeavor but one that those of us who have been here for many years know is a necessity to improve our bays, among other reasons,” Bankemper said.

Meanwhile, Bankemper will continue to own, with her father, the Jonny’s Original Free Ride service that was synonymous with the hotel and is omnipresent on Siesta Key, running from 10 a.m. to 2 a.m. seven days a week.

“We are very fortunate to have a dedicated staff,” she said of the business.

Lastly, she takes comfort in knowing her hotel is in good hands. After all, it does indeed make a big impression as part of the gateway – as reinforced in its very name -- to an emerging part of Siesta Key.

“There is no doubt that Siesta Key will continue to flourish as the south end of the Key -- or south Village -- continues to develop with the assistance of those who have expanded and those who continue to invest in the area,” Bankemper said. “It has created its own vibe, separate from the north Village, and I hope to see it continue to develop.

“Siesta will always be a prime destination as more and more people discover this jewel and our slice of paradise.”

S. Tamiami Trail. (photo by John Morton)

Bankemper

A familiar face takes the reins

Eileen Carrigan now owns and operates the Shebeen Irish Pub & Kitchen in Crescent Plaza

By Jane Bartnett

Chef Eileen Carrigan, new owner of the Shebeen Irish Pub & Kitchen, is living her dream and was in perfect position to do so.

Carrigan, a culinary school graduate and former IT executive with a love for all things Irish, took the reins of the pub this summer that is a small slice of the Emerald Isle. After closing for the month of August, she reopened Sept. 1.

“The response to our re-opening has been so gratifying,” said Carrigan.

She purchased Shebeen from former owners Ross and Louise Galbraith. The couple founded Shebeen after running their successful Pub 32 on South Tamiami Trail for many years. Carrigan, who was born and raised in suburban Philadelphia, relocated to Sarasota where she worked remotely for her California-based IT employer. She began taking culinary classes at Kaiser University and also joined the Galbraiths’ staff at Pub 32.

Her time spent at Pub 32 convinced her that it was time for a career change. Carrigan credits Ross and Louise with guiding and teaching her about the business. She would even learn how to manage large events, including Pub 32’s annual St. Patrick’s Day celebration that drew more than 1,000 people.

“They were my mentors,” she says of the couple. “I learned from them how a restaurant is run.”

And now with the pub established on the Key, located at 6641 Midnight Pass Rd. in Crescent Plaza, she wants to keep the momentum going.

“Ross and Louise achieved their goal of creating an Irish pub and a presence on Siesta Key. Ross had done a great amount of work here to create a welcoming true Irish pub,” Carrigan said.

Now, she’s adding her own touches to

the place whose Gaelic name translates to speakeasy in English.

“So many people have told me that Siesta Key needed an Irish pub and that it’s been a long time coming,” she said.

During the short time that Carrigan has been welcoming her Siesta Key patrons, which included a “halfway to St. Patrick’s Day” party in mid-September, she’s added some exciting new additions to a menu that build upon the much-loved Irish favorites.

Additional indoor seating and new outdoor counter seating have also been added, along with two new flatscreen TVs so that rugby, football and soccer fans can come in and catch their favorite teams in action.

“We are still only a beer and wine bar,” said Carrigan, although canned cocktails are available.

She highly recommends the new Shebeen Guinness Bloody Mary. “It’s just outstanding, with a lovely float of Guinness,” she said with a laugh.

And, to go along with that bloody Mary? Carrigan suggests her new appetizer potato boxty. A staple of Irish cuisine, the dish is Carrigan’s interpretation of a potato pancake served with sour cream. Beef burgers and plant-based burgers are also popular choices. A personal favorite is a beet and goat-cheese salad served with house-made vinaigrette, flavored with cumin.

“We also have gluten and vegetarian options on our menu,” she noted.

Carrigan is also proud of her new daily dining specials. On Tuesdays, a different appetizer will be featured each week. Wednesdays are burger-and-pint day -choose a burger and the first pint of draft (including Guinness, Smithwicks Irish Ale and Harp), or a glass of house wine, is “on the house.” Thursday diners may select a special entree such as blackened red snapper over Carolina rice. Every Friday, enjoy fresh seafood chowder, made with mussels, clams, salmon and cod. For dessert, indulge in Shebeen’s house-made bread pudding or a slice of the decadent Mississippi mud pie.

Another new addition to Shebeen’s lineup is the weekday happy hour. Running from 4 to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday, specials include $1-off drafts, house wine and cocktails. Appetizers include 1 pound of mussels for $10; Reuben sliders, $8; chicken wings, $7; beer cheese pretzels, $6; chicken tenders, $5; and boxty cakes, $4.

Of course, a traditional Irish pub needs a bit of music. Carrigan, who plays the bagpipes, has seen to that as well.

“We have live music on Thursday and Friday nights and I’m hoping to add a session, as they say in Ireland, that will feature traditional Irish music played by local musicians,” she said.

As the season gets underway in the coming weeks, Carrigan is expecting to open for lunch. Currently, Shebeen Pub opens its doors at 4 p.m. The kitchen closes at 8 p.m. on Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. On Friday nights, the kitchen remains open until 9 p.m.

At the end of an evening, Shebeen closes its doors when the last patron says good night, Carrigan said.

New Energy Medicine Technologies are Now Offered at Spa Experience, Siesta Key

After completing the Life Transformation program at Hippocrates Health Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida, and experiencing firsthand the cutting-edge energy medicine offerings there, Connie Lewis is excited to bring Qrs and H-Wave healing therapies to Spa Experience Siesta Key. Lewis has created a new service that encompasses all her areas of expertise including trigger point therapy, Reiki, Cupping, CBD massage Hot stone Massage, Sports Massage, and now QRS and H-Wave therapies. Consultation and coaching time are included with your session.

Qrs is energy medicine that utilizes PEMF (pulsed electric magnetic therapy via a mat laser and ear and eye accessories. These noninvasive therapies are painless and ultra-relaxing and healing in nature. Some of the many benefits of the Qrs Mat and laser are improved and speedier recovery from physical tiredness and over-exertion. Qrs balances the body’s acupuncture points in 8 minutes leaving you feeling stress-free, energetic, and ready for whatever the day may bring. Qrs aids in healing muscle soreness and post-workout stress while healing the muscles joints and bones.

H-Wave is an FDA-approved medical device used to flush lymphatic fluid, increase circulation and eliminate pain and restore function. If the space around the cell is congested, the cells cannot uptake the oxygen

and nutrition it needs resulting in pain sickness, disease, and premature aging. If the space around the cells is free of congestion and metabolic waste products, the cell can now uptake oxygen and nutrition resulting in less pain sickness, more energy better health, and slower aging physically and mentally.

Incorporating these technologies into her Spa treatments will be an incredible leap forward in assisting clients live a more painfree relaxed life.

Spa Experience Siesta Key was opened in January of 2021 when Connie decided to expand her Spa in scope and services. Having owned and operated Massage Experience Siesta Key for 22 years she wanted to offer a wider range of services now including Acupuncture, Qrs, H-Wave energy medicine,

and Spa Parties. Lewis continues to offer her pampering results-driven facials using Pevonia Botanica Skincare and body line. Pevonia Botanica products are available for purchase by calling or stopping by the Spa.

Spa Experience Siesta Key boasts 5 treatment rooms that can accommodate up to 8 guests at a time. We are happy to help you make arrangements for your Bridal party, family reunion, or a spa day with friends. Please call for details and package options.

Spa Experience Siesta Key is conveniently located near the Siesta Key public beach at 5700 Midnight Pass Road, Suite 4b, Siesta Key, FL 34242 Our phone number is 941-349-4833 and our website is www.SpaExperienceSiestaKey.com

Eileen Carrigan pours a hearty glass of Guiness at her pub in Crescent Plaza. (photo by John Morton)

Sunday

Outdoor Waterfront Dining!

Salmon … $22

Sea Scallops … $22

Shrimp and Seafood Au Gratin … $16

Fisherman Platter … $32

Baby Back Ribs … $24

Orange Pecan Chicken … $16

Filet Mignon … $24

Filet Mignon & Stuffed Shrimp … $34

Filet Mignon & Maine Lobster Tail … $48

Stuffed Shrimp & Maine Lobster Tail … $42

Twin Maine Lobster Tails … $54

FRIED SEAFOOD PLATTERS

Coconut Shrimp … $22

Large Gulf Shrimp … $20

Fish & Chips … $19

Fried Combo … $28

PASTA & BOWLS

Shrimp & Crab Scampi … $24

Salmon Pasta … $21

Chicken & Shrimp Curry … $21

Sweet ‘n Spicy Chicken & Shrimp … $22

Pasta Primavera … $16

DESSERTS

Turtle Pie … $9

Key Lime Pie … $9

Sample Platter … $12

Ice Cream Bar … $6

*Prices subject to change*

Gilligan’s hopes sound study will be convincing

By ChrisAnn Allen

Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill is now following Sarasota County directives in order to possibly provide live music later than its current 10 p.m. cut-off time.

Attorney Casey Colburn, representing Gilligan’s owner Scott Smith, said Sept. 8 that a sound study of live music was approved by Smith and the county. The study is a measure proposed by the county that would potentially allow the establishment a special exception that was denied in January. At that time, Gilligan’s was hoping to have live music go as late as 2 a.m., which is when it closes. Colburn said he spoke with about a dozen sound engineers before receiving a proposal from Michael Keane with Keane Acoustics of Oldsmar. The county signed off Sept. 7 on the scope of work provided by Keane, thereby postponing a Sept. 13 special magistrate hearing on the special exception.

The plan entails Keane visiting Gilligan’s to measure ambient sound levels when live music is both not playing and when it is playing, spanning up to 18 hours of measuring. Keane will then compare the data against the county noise ordinance to determine current impact and

Burial site

potential effect of live music after 10 p.m. There will be a summary of findings, as well as mitigation recommendations, if needed. Smith will cover the cost of the study, which is not to exceed $3,520.

“This guy has a good skill set,” Colburn said of Keane. “I’ve seen his work. The key is to get him out there at the right time, so he can generate data when we have a loud band with drums and amplifiers. Then he’ll be able to give recommendations for what we can do.”

Additionally, Colburn said Keane would measure the sound from various points on the property.

The call for a study stemmed from a July 26 mediation session between Gilligan’s, located at 5253 Ocean Blvd. in the Siesta Key Village, and the county. Following those proceedings, Colburn emailed assistant county attorney David Pearce a proposal that said there would be no live music on the back patio stage past 10 p.m. and that all live music would end at midnight seven days per week.

Pearce responded that county staff did not feel comfortable recommending Colburn’s proposal to the Sarasota Board of County Commissioners, as it did not adhere to the “scientific approach” stipulated during the July 26 hearing which would include a sound engineer’s evaluation of sound mitigation for the property.

The commission rejected the initial request by a 4-1 vote, with District 2 commissioner Mark Smith, a Siesta Key resident, providing the lone vote in favor. Then, near the end of the meeting, an additional motion for reconsideration was rejected by a 3-2 vote with Smith and former commissioner Nancy Detert in favor.

Friends of a lost flamingo

Continued from page 4

Additionally, if any other human remains or associated artifacts are discovered on the site, law enforcement and historical division authorities must be notified within two days and work must cease. Said Koski in an email, “The disturbance of an archaeological site, be it intentional or accidental, is a loss to history, and a greater loss when human remains are

involved. It is more a solemn event than a sensational one. Because of that, there is a sensitivity that should be respected.

“Sarasota County Division of Historical Resources does what they can to protect significant archeological sites and historical resources under Chapter 66, Article III, as well as to mitigate for loss when it occurs, in this case through

archaeological examination and a conservation easement, ending with the reinterment of any remains found within the conservation easement.”

A similar instance in August of 2014 led to county approval of the creation of a protective covenant to preserve a portion of the Lucke Midden located nearby at 8541 Midnight Pass Rd.

On Sept. 2, a pair of Siesta Key lifeguards rescued a lost flamingo that was wandering Crescent Beach. It is presumed that it was blown into our area by winds created by Hurricane Idalia. Michael Patterson (far left) and Scot “Scooter of the Beach” Ruberg (second from left) were able to secure the bird and contact a volunteer with the Sarasota-based Save Our Seabirds organization, whose representatives took it to their facility for the proper care. According to Sarah Rubin with Save Our Seabirds, the

flamingo will eventually be returned to a proper location south of here, which is its natural habitat, if healthy enough to do so. Per her organization’s policy, she would not comment on the bord’s condition. To Ruberg’s left are Joe Calucci, Fiona Bowers, and Catherine McCarthy of Sarasota County’s Parks, Recreation and Natiral Resources Department. (photo courtesy of Sarasota County)

Musician Rodney Shenk performs on the front porch area at Gilligan’s. (photo by John Morton)

From the Grill

Reviewed Januar y 29, 2023

A s f re q u e n t v i s i t o r s t o S a r a s o t a , w e ’ re n o t s u re h o w w e m a n a g e d t o m i s s t h i s pla c e i n t h e p a s t N o w t h a t w e h a v e f o u n d i t , w e wil l b e b a c k t o s a m pl e e v e r y t h i n g

We tried the stone crab chowder and the grouper tacos. Both were delicious and loaded with fish. Our tacos were dressed with a pineapple, watermelon salsa and accompanied by a side of wheatberry salad which had just the right balance of sweet and tangy

Our son also raved about his broiled tripletail which came with fresh green beans and potatoes. Prices, including beer, were reasonable and portions were plentiful.

Fresh Catch Tacos: your choice of Grouper, Mahi Mahi, or Shrimp on a soft tor tilla with homemade coleslaw, aioli sauce and choice of tropical salsa or pico de gallo

Stone Crab Season Starts October 15th. Fresh Catch Market & Grill has the Freshest & Best Stone Crabs in Sarasota Area

Keeping an eye on our island

Bob and Catherine Luckner continue to relish the role of watchdog as the Siesta Key Association marks its 75th year

By Hannah Wallace

For more than a decade, Bob and Catherine Luckner have been at the forefront of Siesta’s battles, both big and small — from Big Pass to big hotels to tiny snowy plovers. It’s a convoluted, unpaid, and often exhausting job. But the Luckners have turned out to be the right people at the right time for Siesta Key.

As current acting treasurer and president (respectively) of the nonprofit Siesta Key Association, Bob and Catherine possess the combination of curiosity, grit and patience required to navigate the boggy, bureaucratic world of civic procedures. Together, their complementary traits have forged an oftenunstoppable force.

“I’m an engineer. Catherine’s a psychologist,” said Bob this summer. “We double-team them.”

Their mission, as Catherine Luckner put it, has been “the retention of a feeling of home” on Siesta.

The Siesta Key Association will celebrate its 75th anniversary on Nov. 12. As the Luckners recently looked back over nearly 14 years with the organization, they recount a measured, systematic and informed advocacy that could be recommended as a road map for civic organizations everywhere.

And though they don’t win every fight, the Luckners believe that Siesta will retain its feeling of home going forward, especially as other residents join the cause and follow their lead.

***

Prior to joining the Siesta Key Association, Bob worked 35 years as a chemical engineer for Exxon Mobil, retiring in 2005. Catherine, a native Floridian from St. Pete, worked in mental health for more than 40 years, including at Sarasota Memorial Hospital.

In 2010 they both joined the Siesta Key Association, which had been formed in 1948 to preserve the island’s residential appeal. That 75-year-old mission still touches virtually every aspect of life on the Key — albeit in widely varying ways.

“We act as a clearing house to get general information out to people,” said Bob, who first visited Siesta Key in 1960 with his parents.

“But we also act as an advocacy group, so that when people bring problems to us that are common — hotel houses or a new condo — we act as a focal point to talk to the commissioners. There’s probably not a rezoning request out there that we don’t submit a written letter on.”

Communication is key. Shortly after the Luckners joined, the SKA board implemented a monthly “Presidents’ Council” meeting with the leaders of the chamber of commerce and the condo association, as well as the district’s Sarasota County commissioner (currently Mark Smith). “I think it’s been a wonderful way to have communication that helps everybody,” said Catherine. “We do have a good, collegial relationship.”

The Siesta Key code enforcement officer and the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office also represent vital relationships.

Residents, too, are encouraged to call an SKA hotline to share issues and concerns that the board may be able to address.

ordinances. You have to ask, ‘How do you change things?’”

Things may or may not change, but ultimately the SKA empowers residents to participate in the process.

“A good part of our work is just to share with people how to contact the right person,” said Catherine. “Many people feel better just knowing who to call.” ***

SKA board members bring their own passions and areas of expertise to the organization’s fights. For the Luckners, environmental concerns have always loomed large.

“I literally was drafted onto this [SKA] board while I was looking at the canopy oaks on my street,” said Catherine. “I was just standing there and looking up. Someone came out and said, ‘Would you like to go to an urban forestry meeting with me?’ I had no idea what it would turn into.”

One of the first SKA projects spearheaded by the Luckners was the development of a beach nesting program for snowy plovers. They put up buffers and monitored the nests almost constantly, and they recruited other volunteers to join them. The program has inspired similar efforts on other beaches, and the work earned both Bob and Catherine recognition as 2011 Sarasota Audubon Volunteers of the Year. Other environmental successes followed.

Under the Luckners’ leadership, the SKA recently secured a grant to install more than 200 mini reefs, vital habitats for improving water quality, in the Grand Canal. They participated in a project that evolved into the Siesta Key Coalition to resist proposed “mega-hotels.” The couple also worked diligently to stop a dredging project from destroying sea grass habitats off Siesta Key Beach — a project Catherine said that made her realize “how tired you can be. It’s like it never leaves your mind. There’s been times when we were really intensely involved where it never left our minds, not ever, for all the years that we were working on it.”

button topics come to the fore. “Water quality, zoning, overdevelopment — that’s when we have the biggest interest,” said Catherine. The solutions are rarely clear, but that’s where the Luckners’ dogged research comes in.

“Sometimes it’s just what comes up, you grab the people and then you go,” said Catherine. “Sometimes you don’t know what’s involved, like codes and

They’ve even established neighborhood “doggy-bag stations” that only cost about $500 annually to stock and in turn keep significant animal waste out of the bay every year. People who’ve just moved into the neighborhoods volunteer to fill the stations with fresh bags — a sign that new residents have literally bought into their stewardship for the Key.

“They’re coming to us because they bought a house, and the people who lived here before them were [filling the stations],” said Catherine. “We have three generations of people that do that, just because they’re buying a nice piece of property. It really is personal as well as a community effort.”

Other victories have been more circumspect. The Luckners recently faced down a Turtle Beach renourishment project that would have involved 4,000 dump trucks driving down Siesta Key in the middle of the busy winter season. The government wouldn’t formally reconsider its schedule, so the Luckners and their team went through official channels to request an extra 30-day period “for comment” and to consider hiring a lawyer. After that, they devised other requests.

“By the time we were

drinks, grab your beach gear, or stock up on beer, wine, snacks and key lime pie We have a full select on of groceries for a perfect island stay!

Watching the wonders of nature from the deserts to the mountains, the Luckners enjoy being on the move but always find time to hunker down and keep close tabs on Siesta Key, their home turf. It’s where they were married and where renew their vows each Valentine’s Day.

From cow costume to king of Clayton’s

The relentless Clayton Thompson and his family members celebrate 20 years in business, look forward to a strong future

By Hannah Wallace

Before he was a Siesta Key restaurateur, Clayton Thompson was a Sarasota cow. “I’ve been like that all my life,” the owner of Clayton’s Siesta Grille said this fall, just shy of the restaurant’s 20th anniversary. “I’ve done some things you don’t want to do.”

At 14, for instance, he worked as a busboy at Mr. Steak on South Tamiami Trail, across from The Landings. “When business was slow the owner would send me out into the median on (U.S.) 41 wearing a cow suit with a large cow head,” Thompson remembered. “He had one of the girls chase me around with a bullwhip.”

Despite his embarrassment at the time, the teenage Thompson appreciated the effectiveness of his beef-themed guerilla marketing.

Nowadays, you’re much more likely to see Thompson out of costume, but still hard at work. “You’re going to find me out in the parking lot trimming the bushes, picking up cigarette butts, being respectful to our neighbors,” he said. “I’m relentless. I get up every single day thinking, ‘How can I make some money today? What can I go do to help at the restaurant?’” ***

Clayton’s began in 2004 as a “hobby” of sorts for Thompson and his wife, Diane. By that point, he’d been working in real estate appraisals for more than 30 years. He just wanted to do something different. And he’d been gravitating toward the restaurant industry since childhood.

“I had a rough upbringing from the time I was 12,” he said. “I found working at restaurants, I was fed, I always got a meal. And I got to hang out with really cool people.”

Located just off the south bridge on Old Stickney Point Road, Thompson’s restaurant

began its life as a Mattison’s, part of the local family of restaurants from Sarasota chef Paul Mattison. “But we soon realized the margins were so tight that we couldn’t pay someone for their name,” Thompson said.

Newly redubbed Clayton’s in 2005, the restaurant’s business still seemed solid. “I thought we rocked coming out of the gate,” remembered Thompson, who was still operating several appraisal offices from Naples to Tampa at the time. “Business was good. I was having fun until my wife told me just how much our new hobby was costing

us.”

Only then did Thompson go all-in, turning away from the appraisal industry altogether and taking over restaurant operations himself. And he hasn’t looked back in 20 years.

Thompson attributes his long-term success to a number of deliberate decisions that have kept the restaurant’s quality high and accounts in the black. His kitchen, for one thing, has always steered away from conveyor-belt mediocrity and toward reliance on skilled professionals.

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

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

“I think what makes Clayton’s click is the hiring of an executive chef and not depending on a kitchen manager,” he explained. “A kitchen manager just prepares the existing recipes. There’s no incentive for them to go and make specials. We said from day one that we would operate very closely to a scratch kitchen. We make our soups, sauces, desserts, have a fresh daily fish, and make our pizza dough.”

Clayton’s current executive chef, Mike Yoder, came to the restaurant in 2021 and created new menu items when he arrived.

Like Clayton’s chefs before him, Yoder brings extensive culinary experience. He operates as a true executive chef, and he can adjust dishes and specials as needed — if there’s a shortage of a particular ingredient, for instance, or if something especially appealing happens to be available that day.

And if market prices go up, then Clayton’s may have to raise menu prices. What Thompson won’t do, he said, is cut quality. “I think a lot of restaurants make the mistake of trying to downgrade their food” to keep prices the same. ***

While Thompson is the namesake and the most visible part of Clayton’s — “the cow in the median,” if you will — he credits his whole family for the work they do to keep the restaurant, and Thompson himself, in good standing.

“Our daughter Shelby is our bookkeeper, a social media whiz, and just like her mother knows how to keep me in check. My son, Clayton, is a data analyst at one of those billion-dollar endowments and has recently been helping us to better understand the financials of the business,” Thompson said.

Continued on page 26

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

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

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

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

Thompson family members toast 20 years in business outside their Old Stickney Point Road establishment. From left are Clayton, Diane, Shelby, and Clayton Jr. (photo by John Morton)

Sage

Kylie

Giada, Anna & Alexis

Diane

5204 Ocean Blvd. in Siesta Key Village

Sierra & Paola

Taylor & Stephania Anna Nora

Alice Emma

July 14, alleged theft

Complainant reported his motorcycle was parked behind a restaurant in the Village and had been taken. Upon investigation it was concluded that the motorcycle had been towed from the property. The motorcycle was recovered and the case was closed.

July 18, verbal altercation

Property manager reported a verbal altercation between a male and female on the premises.

Upon arrival, a sheriff’s deputy found a female outside the unit where she was staying with her friend.

She indicated that there had been a verbal argument over the location of a cell phone and where a vehicle was parked. The male indicated he was on his way to the airport. Both parties signed a waiver of prosecution.

July 18, missing package

Complainant was expecting a dress from a high-end store to be delivered to her residence, and received an email message

Sheriff’s Report

that it had been delivered, but could not locate any package at the residence.

The carrier was contacted and was not able to provide a picture or other proof of delivery.

July 21, battery

The elevator at a condo complex malfunctioned with guests inside. After about 15 minutes the security manager for the complex was able to open the door to the elevator.

After a verbal exchange about the malfunctioning elevator one of the guests allegedly assaulted the security manager in the head.

The security manager did not wish to press charges and the guests left the premises with a trespass warning.

Aug. 8, drug possession

Sheriff’s deputy made contact with subject while subject was in his vehicle smoking marijuana and had an open container of alcohol in the center console of his vehicle. The subject was detained.

Aug. 8, physical altercation

A sheriff’s deputy responded to the public beach parking lot in reference to a fight.

The deputy made contact with the victim who indicated he had been in a fight with his friend. The victim and his friend were on vacation and had gotten into an argument about leaving the beach.

The argument turned physical and the victim was punched in the face.

The suspect was interviewed by a deputy and indicated that the victim attempted to hit him and he had punched the victim in the face in return but then walked away to avoid further confrontation. A waiver of prosecution was signed by the victim.

Aug. 9, theft

Victim reported that he had property stolen while he was at Siesta Beach. The theft occurred near the blue lifeguard stand at approximately 8 p.m.

The stolen property consisted of a bag with his wallet, iPhone, and clothing.

Victim was advised to track the iPhone and identify its location to police.

Aug. 20, theft

Victim was on Siesta Beach and set her bag on a beach chair, then went for a walk. When the victim returned from her walk, she discovered that the bag was missing. The missing items included a blue Jansport bag valued at $20, towels valued at $10, a Florida ID in the victim’s name, a Kia key fob valued at $300, and one AirPod in a sparkle case valued at $120.

Aug. 23, theft

Manager of convenience store reported that three suspects came into the store, took two Neon Burst alcoholic drinks that cost $2.79 each, and left without paying for them.

Aug. 31, theft

Complainant reported he left his bag at a closed business so he could go to the beach. Upon returning the bag was on the floor and the following items were missing: $100 in cash, a brown leather wallet, a Florida driver’s license, a debit card, keys, and a Samsung phone.

Video footage from the closed business was being sought.

OPEN 10–5 DAILY 10–9 SATURDAY

SIESTA KEY

NOVEMBER 10—13, 2023 • SIESTA BEACH

• Food, Drink & Retail Vendors

• Party Tent

• Master Sculpting Competition

• Quick Sand Speed Sculpting

• 16 brilliant sand masterpieces

Fun Activities for Kids & Adults!

Amateur Competition

Sand Sculpting Demos & Lessons

A portion of the proceeds will go towards the Siesta Key Crystal Classic Scholarship Fund for Ringling College of Art + Design

LIVE MUSIC EVERY DAY!

Philharmonic Band, Kettle of Fish, Ten 76 Band, From the Edge Band, Smudgekitten, John Patti Project, Tropical Ave, Hydramatic, Out of the Blue

SAVE MONEY AND TIME BUY YOUR TICKETS ONLINE NOW!

(Ticket price higher at gate)

SiestaKeyCrystalClassic.com

This one’s a natural choice

Plant-based bowls and smoothies are among the offerings at Nutritious You Cafe in Siesta Key’s Southbridge Mall

“The plant-based movement is growing,” said Marina Palmer, a certified personal trainer who manages her family’s Nutritious You Cafe.

This small-but-mighty casual dining spot, located in Southbridge Mall on Siesta Key, is a place to drop in and grab a treat before or after a trip to the beach and also features a small number of inside tables as well as comfortable dining outside under an umbrella.

The restaurant’s address is 6583 Midnight Pass Rd.

The 2023/2024 tourist season will mark the third year that Palmer and her family have owned the Siesta Key location that her father, Mario, and mother, Carey, purchased in the middle of 2020 from the previous owner. A year later the Palmers opened their second restaurant, Palmer’s Plant Based Café, in the Crossings Shopping Center at 3501 S. Tamiami Trail. It can be found in the space that once held the TooJay’s Deli.

Marina manages both. “I do it all,” she said with a laugh while discussing her busy schedule. “I’ve followed in my father’s footsteps.”

The Palmers are on trend with their dedication to plant-based dining. According to the national Plant Based Foods Association, 48% of U.S. restaurants serve plantbased foods as diners have become more aware of healthy eating,

“People in my generation are so excited to discover us,” said 24-year-old Marina. “My

generation and younger -- they’re so happy that they found our acai bowls. It’s a cool place to be.”

Nutritious You Cafe’s organic acai bowls are all-vegan and gluten-free and are priced between $12.95 and $14.95. Names include the Americana, Caramel Apple, Sarasota Tropical, Super Hero, and Willy Wonka.

“We help so many people who are looking for plant-based, glutenfree and kosher food,” Marina said. Her mother, whose background is in health and wellness, noted that “plant-based is a good way to go for anyone with cardiac or vascular disease, or high cholesterol.”

To satisfy all members of the family and a variety of tastes, the cafe’s menu includes the Palmer’s Burger, which is a “vegan-beyond” burger; a vegan tuna wrap; and even a Reuben made from seitan

By Jane Bartnett

-- the vegan plant-based meat substitute.

To start the day, Marina recommends one of the cafe’s allday breakfast items. That includes an egg and sausage bagel made with Just Egg, “beyond sausage,” and vegan cheese on an everything bagel. A diner who was enjoying avocado toast for lunch called it “amazing.”

Smoothie lovers will be happy to know that the Nutritious You Cafe offers six tempting varieties of vegan and gluten-free drinks. All are made on-site and priced at $12.95 each. The Pink Unicorn is made with banana, strawberries, Almond Mylk, and vanilla protein powder; the Monster Mash has mango, pineapple, spinach, orange juice, and flax seeds; the Peanut Butter is prepared with banana, Almond Mylk, Medjool Date, peanut butter and cacao powder; and the Sour Apple is made with banana, spinach, apple juice, Medjool date, lemon juice and pineapple; the Blood Dragon is made with dragon fruit, mango, pineapple, coconut water, and vanilla protein powder.

The 480-calorie Muscle Power smoothie, packed with 27 grams of protein, is made with banana, acai, Almond Mylk, almond butter, and

vanilla protein powder.

For a good “grab-and-go” option, Marina suggests the vegan protein balls and cookies.

Coffees are also a big seller.

“We’ve gotten a lot of compliments on our hot and iced coffees,” said Carey. “Our lattes, espressos and espresso drinks are also popular.”

Juice fans will find five different 16-ounce organic and fresh coldpressed juices.

The cafe also carries three different juice shots as well as a Three-Day Detox Juice Cleanse. Available as a set of 18 juices along with a free ginger shot, the juice cleanse sells for $240 and must be pre-ordered three days in advance.

A small selection of all-natural vegan soaps and facial products are also sold. As the busy season approaches, Marina is looking forward to greeting a new group of plant-based and kosher diners to her world. “So much of our menu is comfort food and familiar. We appeal to all kinds of people,” she said.

The cafe’s new signage on the exterior wall of the plaza has drawn in many new diners. “It’s a cozy, welcoming space,” said Carey. Looking ahead, the Palmers are considering franchising their brand but. for now, they have made this small corner of Siesta Key their own. “We’ve found our recipe for success,” said Marina.

Nutritious You Cafe is open from 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday. Visit online at nutritious you.com.

Carey Palmer chats with a customer (left) while Marina Palmer works the front counter. (photos by Jane Bartnett)

Resort considers voluntary demolition

Continued from page 1 destroyed in a major storm event where loss of property is definite and loss of life a possibility.”

Commissioners on Sept. 12 considered the fine print attached to this question in the form of a publicly submitted comprehensive plan amendment allowing the voluntary demolition of multi-family, nonconforming structures -- namely aging condominiums -- to be rebuilt according to modern codes before a storm hits.

Smith was the first to speak, using Sea Club V as an example, but stated any structures built previous to the 2000 Florida Building Code run the same risk. “We just need to look south from the storms that have hit our coast,” he said. “You’ll see that buildings that were built to the Florida Building Code are still standing and those that weren’t are not any longer.”

During the meeting, the board unanimously approved a motion authorizing staff to move forward with the publicly initiated comp plan amendment, with an accompanying UDC amendment.

Currently, nonconforming structures can only be rebuilt to the same density following a disaster.

“Obviously, I have been following this closely since I was the architect that brought it before the board a year or so ago,” Smith said. On behalf of the Sea Club V Condominium Association, he brought forward the possibility of voluntary demolition and rebuilding at the previous height and density. At that time, Smith shared the example of a similar structure, the Champlain Towers South, which collapsed in Surfside in June 2021.

Chairman Ron Cutsinger, the District 5 commissioner, expressed concern over “unintended consequences due to the broadness of scope,” and asked Farrell if staff had seen any “red flags.” Farrell responded that “allowing the nonconformities to exist in perpetuity,” could be an issue.

Some stakeholders had similar concerns. A July 11, 2022 letter to the commission

from representatives of the Siesta Key Condominium Council stated the amendment “could have far-reaching unintended consequences for residents of Siesta Key regarding density, intensity and safety on the barrier island.” Additionally, a letter dated April 12 from the Siesta Key Association from president Catherine Luckner supported the SKCC letter and included her saying “To waive that invites unintended consequences and will likely encourage condos that skirt transient use regulations and density/intensity regulations.”

Additionally, regarding the fear of “unintended consequences,” Bob Luckner, the treasurer for the SKA, during the group’s Sept. 7 meeting said, “What we don’t want is someone to buy a condo, tear it down, and then build something else that’s ridiculous.”

However, commissioners agreed the best way to further consider the matter would be to move forward.

“If staff does go forward and put time and attention on this, if there are any ‘unintended consequences,’ it would get shook out in that public process for public input and ultimately for another chance for us to amend it and then finally approve it, if we choose?” District 1 Commissioner Mike Moran asked Josh Moye, the county attorney, who confirmed that commissioners will have the authority to amend, accept or dismiss the measure.

At the Sept. 12 meeting, Farrell presented information provided by stakeholders, subsequent staff suggestions, and asked for board feedback, including:

• Allowing nonconformities to exist in perpetuity.

• New construction to contain the same type and number of residential units.

• Aside from non-conforming density, new construction must follow county standards for setback, height and lot coverage.

• Uses must be residential.

• No variances to county requirements

outlined in the comprehensive plan and UDC.

• Requiring engineering criteria to allow demolition.

• Allowing demolition/ rebuilding of any structure built prior to 2000.

• Requiring a unit count prior to a demolition permit.

• Retaining the square footage of the original units with new construction.

• Concerns over the transient nature of new construction.

Smith said he supported the proposed stipulations and any entity choosing to voluntarily demolish would follow all requirements for the Federal Emergency Management Agency, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection, and the Florida Building Code, “and build just like you were building on regular property, because in most cases these are all going to be built up,” over covered parking.

He also said the new construction would have the same density and ideally the same unit types, such as one bedroom, one bath, or whatever previously existed, but there would be no variances allowed for building height.

“No variances on height, no variances on density,” Smith said. “Again, we are building to today’s zoning codes, asking no more or no less.” He added that the county would not restrict people to building the same square footage per unit, as modern residences are not the same as those built 50 to 70 years ago.

Smith said he disagreed with requiring a structural engineer’s input in demolition determination. He said it is an unnecessary burden as any structure built prior to 2000

would not fare well in a major storm event.

Smith added that the process of tearing down and rebuilding requires a considerable amount of money, time and consideration and “is not something that is going to be taken lightly.”

Additionally, he said concerns over the “transient nature of new construction,” is a matter handled in the condominium documents, including length of stay, and is up to the individual entities to determine, not the county.

With an approval of the motion taking place at the meeting, the possible amendment will now continue to be dissected by staff, then brought before the planning commission and then back to county commissioners for further consideration.

Bach and Beer – a perfect combination!

On October 13-15, Key Chorale Chamber Singers and Church of the Redeemer presents its unique take on Oktoberfest, with a 3-day festival celebrating the music and genius of Johann Sebastian Bach. Enjoy four amazing concerts featuring the stunning virtuosity of soprano Mary Wilson, trumpeter Aaron Romm, vocalists, and chamber orchestra. Concluding with a Biergarten Experience of German food, beers from Calusa Brewing, and music from Bill Milner’s Oompah Band. Bach and Beer – a perfect combination!

Throughout the 3-day festival, featured guest artists include Aaron Romm, trumpet; Mary Wilson, soprano; Thea Lobo, grammy-nominated mezzo-soprano; Matt Morgan tenor; and David Tinervia, Bartone.

FESTIVAL SCHEDULE:

Friday, October 13, 7:30 PM | Opening Concert

A quartet of soloists, trumpet, flute, oboe, and violin provides a festive sparkle to one of Bach’s most popular orchestral works, his Brandenburg Concerto No. 2

Saturday, October 14, 11:30 AM | Organ Recital & Bach’s Lunch

Forget all your preconceptions about organ music and bask in the kaleidoscope that is the music of Johann Sebastian Bach!

Saturday, October 14, 7:30 PM | Period Instruments Chamber Music Concert

A rare opportunity in Sarasota – baroque music on instruments made during the time of J.S. Bach.

Sunday, October 15, 4:00 PM | Closing Concert

Voices, trumpets, and timpani ring out with joy as we celebrate the 300th anniversary of Bach’s mighty Magnificat

Sunday, October 15, 5:30 PM | Biergarten Experience

A Biergarten Experience of German food, beers from Calusa Brewing, and music from Bill Milner’s Oompah Band.

All concerts & Biergarten take place at Church of the Redeemer • 222 S Palm Ave., Sarasota

To purchase tickets to individual concerts, visit keychorale.org or call 941-552-8768 to reserve the best seats. Purchase the 3-day pass and save 15%!

Sea Club V from the ground and from above.

(photo by John Morton and submitted photo)

The lifeguard towers were moved back from the shore, but still found themselves taking a dip.

Patriots Pier took a pounding during the storm but water quickly receded to put it back in business in time for the nightly tribute to those who have served our country.

The walkway to the public beach had more the look of a stream.

After all the chaos, a gorgeous sunset brought the day to a colorful close.

The morning after saw the arrival of lots of seaweed along the middle of Crescent Beach. (submitted photo)

(photos by Rob LaGasse)

(photo by Trebor Britt)

The Gulf view took on a menacing appearance as the storm approached. (photo by Jessica Prukner)

Homes along the Grand Canal became up close and personal with the rising waters as docks and shore stations disappeared while water encroached upon yards. (photo by Trebor Britt)

(photo by Amanda Michaels)

The picnic areas at Turtle Beach Park took on some substantial flooding. (photo courtesy of Sarasota County)

Volleyball at Siesta Beach called for scuba fins.

(photo by Trebor Britt)

(photo by Robert Schneck)

Siesta Promenade

a hotel on Calle Miramar that exceeded what had been density and height limits. Part of that ruling was based upon Siesta Key’s vulnerability as a barrier island to hurricanes and a potential need for sudden evacuation that is limited to two bridges.

Ramirez would win another hotel-related lawsuit, this one against Sarasota County, in an Aug. 21 summary judgment ruling from the 12th Judicial Circuit Court. The state DOAH victory was knowledge to the judge, but what impact it may have had is uncertain.

Wallace’s opposition letter

In an Aug. 1 letter to the county on behalf of Wallace, land-use attorney Ralf Brookes wrote in summation, in part:

1. “The BOCC should demand that all work on the Siesta Promenade Project must be halted immediately. To not do so flaunts the DOAH decision regarding Siesta Key and its two access roads, which by law demands such action. The significant negative impact of a new signal at Avenue B&C on traffic flow on and off the Key is simply beyond debate. Current plans appear to call for the proposed new signal to stop eastwest traffic dead in its tracks every 85 seconds.”

2. “The BOCC should demand that the Sarasota County legal staff quickly and publicly brief BOCC members on the legalities associated with the DOAH decision’s impact on the Siesta Promenade’s project approval because the county must base approvals on “maintaining

Continued from page 12

the existing level of service of [constrained] roadways and to not allow the existing operating conditions to be degraded.” This legal staff’s public BOCC briefing should also address the impact of the DOAH decision on all other projects involving Siesta Key, and its two access roads …”

Sarasota County was made the owner of Stickney Point Road (west of the U.S. 41 intersection) in 2019 when FDOT handed it off when taking over River Road in the southern part of the county by converting it into a state road.

The drawbridge on Stickney Point Road, however still belongs to the state.

In Brookes’ letter, he also quoted part of the DOAH ruling in saying, in part:

“There are only two bridges — Siesta Drive Bridge and Stickney Point Road bridge that provide access and evacuation routes to the mainland from Siesta Key. Both of the bridges are designated as constrained roads by the comprehensive plan.

“A constrained road is defined by the comprehensive plan as a road with ‘a level of service lower than the adopted standard … this means that while on the bridges, speed and freedom to maneuver are severely restricted. Small increases in traffic will generally cause operational problems at this level.’

“The comprehensive plan states that constrained roads are common throughout the county and therefore the county has accepted ‘an additional responsibility … in its review and approval of land development regulation (LDR).

Therefore, the county must base approvals of LDRs on ‘maintaining the existing level of service of [constrained] roadways and to not allow the existing operating conditions to be degraded.’”

Brookes’ letter also noted that the county received a letter in July of 2016 from an FDOT traffic services program engineer that said the intersection of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road should be given “special consideration,” in part, because of congestion and a high rate of car crashes.

Said Brookes, “Given this FDOT letter, it is hardly surprising that the judge in her DOAH decision specifically stated that the decision

applied not only to the barrier island but also specifically stated that the decision applied equally to Stickney Point Road. Obviously, this access road’s performance is extremely critical to Hurricane evacuation and medical emergency vehicle travel times onto Siesta Key and then to a hospital on the mainland.”

In July, the county’s planning commission voted again in favor of recommending Benderson’s revised plans for the project –subject to the removal of new accommodations for parallel parking upon Glencoe and Crestwood avenues in the neighboring Pine Shores Estates

subdivision.

Brookes’ letter also called into question the legitimacy of that meeting, in relation to the Avenue B & C traffic signal, in saying in part: “ … it must be made clear to the public that the recent planning commission meeting regarding the Siesta Promenade was totally inappropriate and, in fact, an illegal representation of the situation. In effect, the neighborhood meeting participants were told to assume that the Siesta Promenade development and the newly installed, but not yet made functional, signal at Avenue B & C was not debatable -- that this new signal would soon be made functional was assumed by all participants.

“Without that new signal there can be no Siesta Promenade. We call for an immediate and complete cessation of all building permits associated with Siesta Promenade currently scheduled to appear before the BOCC …”

The Sarasota Board of County Commissioners was set to hold a public hearing and potentially vote on Siesta Promenade’s new plans on Sept. 27, as a previously scheduled Aug. 30 vote was delayed due to Hurricane Idalia.

The outcome of the meeting came after Siesta Sand’s print deadline.

Wallace was a plaintiff in a second hotel-related lawsuit against the county, filed in 2021, also regarding the approval of what are now three hotels that received a special exception for the number of rooms and height. He has since dropped out.

Crested Gecko

Correlophus ciliatus

Our store has many crested geckos available in all sizes and age.

Crested geckos are among the easiest and most personable of pet lizards. Thought to have gone extinct in the mid 1800s, crested geckos were rediscovered in New Calidonia in 1994. Since then, they have become a staple pet lizard among keepers due to their ease of care, friendly personalities, and high availability. These adorable lizards typically eat a powdered diet in captivity that resembles a pudding-like substance when hydrated. Their simple diet, small habitat space requirements, and fondness of room temperature make them fantastic candidates for beginners and advanced keepers alike!

Typical appearance and behavior

• Crested geckos love to jump, so be prepared for a gecko to leap from your hand to your shoulders!

• These geckos are mostly nocturnal, so they are most interesting to observe from the late evening into the night.

• Crested geckos have no eyelids! They keep their eyes moist by licking their eyeballs!

• Crested geckos can drop their tails to avoid predators, so it is very important to be gentle around their backsides. The tail doesn't grow back, but if it is lost, dont worry; they can live perfectly happy and healthy live with a "frog butt."

Above, Todd Mathes, the director of development with Benderson Development, shows an artist’s rendering of the residential area for Siesta Promenade. Left, the traffic signals at Avenue B & C at what would be an entrance to the mixeduse development. (file photos)

Turtle Beach sand

Continued from page 1

On Sept. 5, when tides calmed down and water clarity improved, officials got their first good look.

“It allowed staff to observe what appears to be a significant near-shore sandbar created by the storm. If this is the case, the sand may still be in the system, and while it may not be visible on the beach, it continues to be within the project area,” a county spokesperson said.

Thanks to the new sand’s different look and feel, tracking it may be easier.

“The truck-haul project is easily distinguished by its texture and a lighter color than the original sand,” the spokesperson added. “Subjective observation indicates that a substantial amount of the new sand remains on the beach. Some sand loss was previously documented south of Turtle Beach along the rock revetment at the condos. A substantial amount of sand was also pushed up onto Blind Pass Road south of the condos.”

One of the condo complexes impacted is Fisherman’s Cove, located just south of Turtle Beach at 9000 Blind Pass Rd.

General manager Dan Bronkhorst reports that the barrier rocks which were buried in the spring by the new sand are once again exposed, and that his property also lost an entire protective berm and twothirds of its protective coastal vegetation hammock.

“What did survive kept the water from crashing up against our building,” he said.

He estimated, once tides receded, that about 40 feet in width of sand of was gone. Upon completion of the April sand addition, about 75 feet existed, he added. He feared it would be worse.

“We were chewing our nails for a few days,” he said. “It was hard to determine, with the high tides and the supermoons.”

Bronkhorst also fears another financial hit with the beach being minimized. During the renourishment project, when equipment was often staged throughout the area, he faced cancellations and refunds.

“We lost $58,000 in revenue,” he said, “and I’m worried about seeing more of that.”

As for residents toward the southern end of Blind Pass Road, sure enough they found substantial amounts of the new sand on their roadway and in their yards.

Resident Steve Lexow said homeowners hired a private company to move the sand, and there was enough of it to require two days of work by a Bobcat and front-loader. Currently, much of the sand sits in piles at the top of the shoreline.

Mike Evanoff, whose home is southernmost on Blind Pass Road, was among those who took the brunt of it.

“Our road was crushed with 5 to 6 feet of sand, and my house and some of the other homes on the gulf side were hit hard with sand and water in the homes. Also, 3 to 5 feet of sand were in the front yards and on the driveways,” he said. “All landscaping was destroyed, and lots of turtle eggs were observed as well.”

Evanoff said he had not heard whether or not the county was planning to reclaim the sand and move it elsewhere, and he’s not worried about it.

“I am happy with the extra sand on our end of the beach,” he said.

Above, evidence of the ridge in the sand along Turtle Beach created by Hurricane Idalia’s storm surge. Left and below, residents on Blind Pass Road had to deal with the arrival of plenty of the new sand at Turtle Beach that made its way south a bit and ended up on the road and even in their front yards. Much of it is now sitting in piles at the edge of the shoreline. (submitted photos)

A view of the beach in front of Fisherman’s Cove before the storm (above) and after. Notice how many of the protective rocks are now once again exposed and how much of the vegetation is now gone. (photos by David Warren)

Clayton’s turns 20 Continued from

Their other daughter, Logan, worked for years in the restaurant before becoming “a world-famous hairstylist,” according to her father.

Diane Thompson continues to make sure that the couple’s “hobby” hasn’t gotten out of hand, financially or otherwise. “She has gracefully saved me on numerous occasions after I said the wrong thing,” said Thompson.

The result of being around for so long, especially on Siesta Key, is that Clayton’s has been able to rally during the good times and prepare to weather the bad. “We’ve been through storms: red tide, the oil spill, the economic downturn in 2008, the pandemic, now a downturn

again, it’s kind of like the perfect storm,” he said. “We survive because we’re good stewards of our money when times are good.”

***

As Clayton’s prepares for the next 20 years, Thompson has a few things in mind for the future. First up: In 2024, he plans to give a portion of the ownership of Clayton’s to Mike Yoder, as well as to general manager Jacob Butler, as a reward for their service — and ostensibly to alleviate some of Thompson’s responsibilities.

“It was a three-year plan and part of my exit strategy to not be so hands on,” he said. Still, Thompson doesn’t seem to

Luckner leadership

Continued from page 16 done with all that, it had been delayed enough” to avoid a midseason traffic fiasco, said Bob. Then the project proceeded as planned.

“The government sets up a lot of ways to challenge their decisions, but they’re complicated, so we’ve got to learn a lot,” Bob added.

Fortunately, in addition to the Luckners, the SKA attracts a passionate team with a variety of talents.

“There’s some people that are just put together right for the moment that we’re in,” said Catherine. “Some people have the knowledge. Some people have the motivation but may not have all the information. We’ve been so lucky to find people who work together well.”

The Luckners’ constant search for information has a cumulative effect, too. Through all their work over the years, Bob and Catherine have

found paths and built relationships that can make their subsequent projects easier to navigate.

“That working relationship helped us way back when, in 2011, when they were redoing the whole public beach buildings,” said Catherine. “That’s where our working relationship started with many of these engineering people. They knew we’d ask good questions, not just yell at them. Those same people are now the heads of some of these departments. We know that they ask good questions and they know we ask good ones too.”

As Bob put it, “Yelling and crying won’t solve the problem. If you’re organized, it’s a way to get big government to listen to the citizens of an area. The county recognizes SKA as kind of a consolidated voice. It’s not just one or two cranks.”

be slowing down. If anything, he’s just added more jobs to his list.

“In the past several years, I’ve become like the caretaker of the property while I’m still invested in managing the restaurant,” he said. “At 7 in the morning, I’m mopping the kitchen floor. Even if they did a good job [closing] the night before, I’m never satisfied. I’m a little bit of a clean freak. Today I was just cleaning the air intake. That’s a hard job. I do a lot of those jobs.”

Aspiring restaurateur teenagers can take note of this work ethic that Thompson learned from an early age. “If you can survive being a cow, you can do anything,” he said.

***

The Luckners certainly recognize how valuable it can be when the right people come together at the right time.

“My husband is brilliant,” said Catherine. “I’ve known this from the start. He doesn’t do things for the sake of doing them. He uses what he’s learned for the good.

“I’m more interactional, I approach things interpersonally. Between the two of us, that works.”

But will there be similarly wellsuited stalwarts to usher the Siesta Key Association to its 100th year and beyond? For their part, the Luckners aren’t worried.

“The nice thing about Siesta Key is there’s a lot of really smart people out here,” said Bob. “We never have a shortage of volunteers and good ideas.”

Catherine added, “We know so many fabulous people. There will

be so many people to come along and take good care of this place.”

Still, the key to that next-level Luckner brand of motivation remains hard to define —even by the Luckners themselves.

“[Former Sarasota County Commissioner] Nora Patterson once said, ‘Why do you do all

this?’” Catherine said. “I guess it just seems like, if this is one thing you can do, then why not?”

(To learn more about the Siesta Key Association, including details about membership, visit SiestaKeyAssociation.com. The group meets the first Thursday of the month.)

At the edge of the Grand Canyon, where the avid bird watchers spotted five condors.

The exterior of Clayton’s Siesta Grille, located at 1256 Old Stickney Point Rd. (photo by John Morton)

The Highs and Lows of Properties Sold on Siesta Key

Provided by William Raveis Real Estate / www.raveis.com

The following are properties sold on Siesta Key in the last 60 days, providing a snapshot of home values on the Key for both single-family homes and condominiums.

HIGHEST-PRICED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE

746 SIESTA DRIVE

$2.75 MILLION

This large six-bedroom home is in one of the finest boating locations in the area. Gated and walled, this estate is the ultimate for privacy and living the saltwater island life. Enter an oasis canopied by mature, lush landscaping with mango and avocado trees to the expansive paver motor courtyard. With spectacular harbor views from the front door, the home’s bright, open floor plan offers soaring beamed ceilings anchored by a wood-burning fireplace in the large dining room. A wall of glass spans the

adjoining waterfront great room. An island kitchen, breakfast room, media room, guest suite and oneand-half baths complete the main living level.

Two separate second-floor living areas flank this spacious home and are connected by a rooftop deck with an additional observation deck overlooking the pool and large waterfront yard. The waterfront master suite offers a full bath and office; the upstairs guest wing offers three bedrooms and a full bath. Outdoors, relax in the sun by the oversized waterfront pool.

LOWEST-PRICED SINGLE-FAMILY RESIDENCE

4421 OCEAN BLVD. $1 MILLION

This charming three-bedroom two-and-a-half-bath pool home situated on Lake Nancy is one of only two single-family residences on Siesta Key listed for $1 million or under.

The front door leads into a light and bright flow of open living spaces. The kitchen has beautiful solid wood Dutch Haus cabinetry and stainless-steel appliances with quartz countertops and a pass-through

window to the outdoor porch and pool area. Mexican tiles throughout most of the house and wooden floors in the family room with a wood burning fireplace. This cozy room has beautiful glass doors leading out to an extensive covered outdoor porch with a built-in bar, fishpond, and a casual dining area. This area extends out to the large screen caged pool with views of Lake Nancy and a backyard jungle. Upgrades include: 2019 a new roof, 2020 a new A/C, and 2021 new composite laminate wood flooring in family room and bedroom.

HIGHEST-PRICED CONDO

8710 MIDNIGHT PASS RD., #400 $2.75 MILLION

This three-bedroom, three-bathroom penthouse comes complete with a flex room with a Murphy bed/fourth bedroom option, plank tile flooring throughout, vaulted ceilings, and three lavish primary suites.

The condo was fully remodeled in 2019 to the outside walls, including hurricane windows and sliders, and is in pristine condition with a modern coastal design.

Step inside and be welcomed by a gracious foyer and dream

For those who cherish the company of a furry friend, you’ll be delighted to know that one dog, weighing up to 25 pounds, is permitted in this fantastic community. Take advantage of the two-week minimum rental policy, allowing you to generate income up to 26 times a year, while relishing the benefits of a true vacation rental

kitchen, boasting the finest finishes and upgrades. The kitchen features shaker-style cabinets with crown molding, stunning quartzite counters, designer glass tile backsplash, and under-cabinet LED lighting.

The suite of hi-end stainless-steel appliances includes a built-in oven/microwave combo, induction cooktop, and large island with a waterfall quartzite top.

There’s tons of storage and pull-out cabinets that lead you to the large utility room with new appliances and floor-to-ceiling storage.

Courtesy of Peppertree Realty

Courtesy of Premier Sotheby’s

Courtesy of Michael Saunders

Owner of 3rd hotel pushes ahead

A third high-density hotel was also granted a special exception and approved by the county in October of 2022, it belonging to island resident Dave Balot, co-owner of the Siesta Key Beach Resort and Suites in the Village. Balot’s new endeavor calls for six stories and 112 rooms on 2.15 acres at 5810 Midnight Pass Rd., where the old Wells Fargo bank is located. Acknowledging that he’s not

certain how the recent legal rulings impact his project, Balot is plugging along with his desire for approval of a site and development plan – something that gets the ball rolling for approval of things mostly related to infrastructure. He first filed it in December and then again in April.

Said Balot in an email, “30 days after my special exception I spoke to my planner who stated that, since I wasn’t legally challenged,

I needed to move forward with my project, as a special exception expires in two years. I then contacted my architect -- we hired a civil engineer and a landscape architect to assist us with the site and development plan (basically everything under the first floor, such as electric, gas, stormwater, sewer, etc.).”

But county staff decided this summer to wait on any work on the plan, despite the expiration

deadline, because of the legal proceedings concerning the other hotels. It forced Balot to schedule an appeal to be heard at an Aug. 29 commissioners meeting that would be postponed due to Hurricane Idalia. Since then, the county has agreed to work on the plan but not release the permit until more is known on the legal front.

“Basically, move the ball from the 40-yard-line down to the 10-yardline,” Balot said of his potential

progress.

Balot’s hotel was not mentioned in either of Ramirez’s lawsuits or a second lawsuit against both Anderson’s and Kompothecras’ hotels filed by resident Robert Sax, the Marina Del Sol condominium complex where he lives and serves as president, and residents of the 222 Beach Road condominium complex. Judge Stephen Walker combined the two county-related lawsuits earlier this year before recusing himself from the case because of his association with one of Kompothecras’ lawyers.

However, the building limits determined by Carroll are believed to apply to all future hotel-related Siesta Key development scenarios and anything else would require another special exception process unless an appeal, if applicable, overturns Carroll’s ruling.

Regardless, Balot hopes to salvage some things as the county has also given him permission to file an amendment to its comprehensive plan.

“I’m hopeful that I can propose a comp plan that will allow a new hotel or two to be built, without changing the character of the Key, and doing so in a manner that the residents of Siesta Key will feel is acceptable and appropriate,” Balot said. “Time will tell if that happens.”

An amendment to the comprehensive plan would potentially change the county’s ordinances, as opposed to the county simply interpreting what is already on the books to serve its own purposes, in the view of some.

“What I do believe, as I always have, is that a comp plan was, and is, needed to increase the intensity and density on Siesta Key,” Balot said.

Keeping it Real

By Natalie Gutwein

A deal or not a deal? That is the question

ne of the first questions people ask me when they walk into a home is “How long has it been on the market?” Recently, I seem to hear just as many people say, “That house has been on the market forever, I can get a deal on that!” But what is forever? 10 days? 30 days? 236 days? And, what is a deal? Has our market slowed?

This month I decided to take a deep dive into the market statistics on Siesta Key to try and extrapolate what I’m seeing on a daily basis.

When every other state in the union closed and Florida remained open, it changed our market forever. All of a sudden, houses were selling before they hit the market or within a day and the value of our properties on Siesta Key seemed almost to double

overnight. Market watchers and home shoppers very quickly forgot what the real estate market was like prior to the COVID-19 bump. I started by comparing the number of active listings in 2019 to the number of active listings in 2023. Many people are under the mistaken impression that the Siesta Key market is saturated in singlefamily homes, but a quick glance

at the table below shows a different scenario. In January, February and March of 2019, the inventory levels on Siesta Key were approximately twice what they were in those same months of 2023. The number of active listings for April through August 2023 have increased slightly, but are still significantly below the 2019 levels.

I’m sure if I asked five people how many days on the market was considered too many, I’d get five different answers.

For a seller, of course they’d prefer to sell their property on day one, but what is a realistic expectation? The 10-year high was 412 days on the market in December 2018! As outrageous as that sounds, the 10-year low was six days in July 2022.

While both those numbers seem to be outliers according to the statistics from the Stellar MLS database, in 2018 the average days

on the market were 194 and 2019 wasn’t much better at 185.

The average started to decline in 2020 at 133 days, followed by 2021 at 56, and the 10-year low was 41 in 2022. The average has started to go back up and for the first eight months of 2023 we are averaging 70 days.

There’s a theory in investing

called mean reversion. The concept is that for some financial investments (like a stock for example) there can be significant fluctuations in value, but eventually it will trend back to the mean. That seems to be what’s happening with home values here on Siesta Key. It happened after the housing market crash and it seems to be happening again.

Only time will tell. Stay sunny, Siesta.

(Natalie Gutwein is a licensed Realtor with Premier Sotheby’s International Realty’s Judie Berger Team and a member of the board of directors of the Siesta Key Association.)

(Data accurate as of Sept. 12, 2023 from Stellar MLS.)