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New Siesta Key Hotel Proposals Move Ahead

By Jane Bartnett Several years from now, if developers are successful in securing approvals from Sarasota County, Siesta Key may be the home of two new up-scale hotels.

As the Siesta Sand first reported in July, 2020, the proposed Hotel Siesta Key would be an 8-story, 170-room, privately held, up-scale boutique hotel on Calle Miramar and Beach Road in Siesta Key Village. As required by the Sarasota County Planning Department, the Hotel Siesta Key development group is currently in the midst of presenting community meetings with business, civic and community groups. Led by Siesta Key realtor Robert T. Anderson, the meetings are required as part of the County’s Pre-Application process.

Anderson reported that as of mid-October, 2020, his group has held some 60 individual and group video conferences with civic, community and business groups during the last six months, with more planned. A grassroots group called the SK Coalition is fighting the proposal. According to a page devoted to the Coalition that appears on the Siesta Key Association’s (SKA) website, “a small group

of owners in the area initiated a dialog to oppose the project, and from that core group a formidable coalition has emerged.” The SKA website’s “SK Coalition” page states that “the organizations involved include approximately a dozen Homeowner Associations(HOAs), the Siesta Key Association (SKA) and the Siesta Key Condominium Council (SKCC).”

Anderson told the Siesta Sand that he believes that there is very strong support for the hotel among business, community groups, and in the greater Sarasota region.

In the South Village, a second proposed hotel for a 120-room hotel at Old Stickney Point Road and Peacock Road, as well as a nearby 200-plus parking garage featuring retail space, is being proposed by Siesta Key Continued on page 27

More coverage on hotel development projects on page 26 • SK Coalition opposing hotel development increases • Owners of Siesta Key Beach Resort Hotel and Suites files application to redevelop property

An architectural rendering of the rooftop of the proposed Hotel Siesta Key.

Concerns remain over proposed Siesta Key Home Sales are Going roundabout for Midnight Pass Through the Roof Lisa Codianne Fowler Road/Beach Road intersection ByDuring the early 19th century, the of paradise. Single-family homes in

By Rachel Brown Hackney Editor

Sarasota County’s Public Works Department director readily acknowledges that Siesta Key residents “weren’t all falling all over themselves” in May when he revived the idea of a roundabout at the intersection of Midnight Pass Road and Beach Road.

However, Spencer Anderson told the County Commission on Sept. 22, “Some of the major stakeholders” on the barrier island in the spring “were receptive to the idea.”

Page 10 Meet Paw Pal Radar

• Village Map/business listings PAGES 22-23 • Crescent Beach Map/ business listings PAGE 24 • Word Search PAGE 29 • Gulf Gate Shops PAGE 35 • Accommodations Map/ Listings PAGE 43

term “selling like hotcakes” became a familiar expression for anything that sold quickly, effortlessly, and in mass quantities, making it difficult to keep up with demand. Today, the idiom couldn’t apply more to the housing market on Siesta Key. According to leading Siesta Key realtors, at the beginning of the pandemic sales came to a screeching halt. But in May, when domestic travel restrictions were lifted, a phenomenon occurred. People from all over the Continued on page 42 country swooped down to grab a slice

That was a big change, he pointed out, from their view in 2015, when the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) initially proposed a roundabout near the entrance to Siesta Public Beach.

“To my mind,” Anderson added, “there wasn’t any negative opinion about it” in May that would keep county staff from undertaking more public outreach.

Five years ago, he said, when FDOT first broached the idea as part of a planned resurfacing project set for 2022,

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Phillippi Estate Park hosts Sarasota Open Air Fine Art Show November 14th-15th

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particular have been hot, plummeting inventory to historically low levels.

A market on fire

“The market, especially high-end, has been on fire, which traditionally doesn’t occur,” said Bob Ruiz of Key Solutions Real Estate. “Typically, condominiums and properties in the $1 million and under range are the largest sector of our sales. Though they remain strong, single family homes in the $2 – $5 million range are moving within 30-60 days of listing,” he advised. “Waterfront properties, Continued on page 39

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Meet the octopus, one of the

The tropical paradise

most fascinating creatures of

of Island Reef

the sea

Happiness is…Thanksgiving There couldn’t be a truer statement. In this topsy-turvy year, there’s something so special about taking time to give thanks for the good things. The mindset of giving thanks gives us a precious gift of perspective.

Jerry Williams, owner of Abel’s Ice Cream agrees.

“There’s always something to be thankful for,” he said. “At Abel’s we’re so grateful for our loyal customers and friends.”

Abel’s is ringing in the holiday season with some great fall ice cream flavors to help everyone

get into the spirit. Stop by for a cup or cone of Carrot Cake (You can stop baking, this is the ultimate carrot cake recipe... carrot cake ice cream with fresh walnuts and a thick ribbon of cream cheese frosting), and Pumpkin (Our scrumptious Pumpkin ice cream. It’s better than homemade pumpkin pie!)

No matter the temps outside, you’ll be ready to don your sweaters and find a fall festival complete with scarecrows, pumpkins, and maybe a scare or two.

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

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Ocean Boulevard public parking expansion has support and opposition

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com It took only about 15 minutes on an October morning for the Sarasota County commissioners to lay the groundwork for 22 new public parking spaces on Ocean Boulevard on the northern end of Siesta Key Village.

They unanimously directed County Administrator Jonathan Lewis to work with Public Works Director Spencer Anderson and Anderson’s staff on a report with details about how the parking could be configured, as well as the expense.

However, both the Siesta Key Condominium Council and the Siesta Key Association (SKA) have indicated their disapproval of the plans.

Siesta architect Mark Smith, who pointed out that he was representing the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, stepped to the podium during the public hearing period of the board’s regular meeting on Oct. 6 to talk about the Ocean Boulevard proposal. Smith noted that discussions began about five years ago with Commissioner Alan Maio.

Smith added that, in 2015, he and Maio “got together with other Village businesses” to discuss how to expand public parking in the Village. “Recently,” Smith continued, “this has come back to us.”

Smith showed the board members a concept he had created, which allows for 18 spaces on the west side of Ocean Boulevard, across from the Old Salty Dog restaurant. The spaces could be created in public right of way between coconut palms and street lighting fixtures, Smith noted.

Another four spaces, Smith said, could be placed in the public right of way in front of the building located at 5011 Ocean Blvd., next to the Old Salty Dog. “Parking is a premium on Siesta Key,” Smith pointed out, “and this, we believe, is a good solution … What we’d be removing is palmetto and cabbage palms.”

As a member, too, of the Siesta Key Village Maintenance Corp.

— which represents the Village

property owners who pay for the upkeep of the shopping and dining area — Smith further noted, “We have concerns over safety” in the area where the spaces could be created. Because the palmettos “got rather large,” he said, “you lose visual contact with the street” along the sidewalk.

Moreover, he continued, “We’ve had incidents of homeless camps showing up in [that part of the right of way].”

Given the fact that the Whispering Sands condominium complex’s wall is next to the sidewalk, and landscaping covers the right of way, Smith said, the situation can get “a little spooky at night when you’re trying to go down the sidewalk.”

Smith wrapped up his comments by asking that the commissioners consider directing county staff to analyze his proposal. “We have met with Spencer Anderson and Jonathan Lewis out there,” he noted. “They need your direction in order to proceed, so you can work it into your budget … We would greatly appreciate you helping us out here.”

Then, Commissioner Maio explained that Smith was correct in explaining that the initial discussions about the parking spaces arose five years ago. The county did survey the area, Maio continued; that work determined that the spaces indeed would be in the public right of way.

“The test is across the street,” Maio added, referring to Smith’s proposal for angled parking in the right of way. Angled parking also exists in front of the Old Salty Dog, Maio said, “and it has not impacted anything.”

“I’m fully in support of this,” Maio told his colleagues.

Then, Commissioner Ziegler noted that he also went to the Village to take a look at the site.

“I don’t see any issues with this,” Ziegler said.

“I think this certainly seems plausible,” Commissioner Nancy Detert said of Smith’s proposal.

“This is great,” Commissioner Charles Hines added. Chair Michael Moran offered his

Aerial view of proposed parking expansion on North Ocean Boulevard.

approval of the idea, as well.

Maio ended up making the motion to direct staff to look into the proposal. Staff could complete that assignment within 30 days, County Administrator Lewis said. Then the board could decide on the next steps.

Five years ago, Maio pointed out, “We didn’t have the money for this.” Five years later, Maio said, “We’ll find the money.”

The other view

After word began circulating during the summer that the Siesta Chamber was reviving the parking proposal for Ocean Boulevard, leaders of the Siesta Key Condominium Council (SKCC) sent an Aug. 12 email blast to their members. It contained a letter that the Council had sent to Anderson of Public Works and to the commissioners.

The letter pointed out that

Council, “with approximately 100 Siesta Key Condominium members,” had learned of “interest in adding 18 parking spaces on Ocean Blvd. across from Salty Dog and next to Whispering Sands Condominium.”

SKCC Vice President Diane Erne had spoken with Commissioner Maio and Anderson, the letter added, “to express significant safety and aesthetic concerns about this possible expansion …

The Siesta Key Condominium Council by this [letter] is on record as against this idea or plan and recommends this be dropped from consideration.”

Siesta Key Association (SKA) leaders also object to the proposal, President Catherine Luckner said.

“There’s going to be a rousing ‘No,’” she added, noting that she had been unaware Smith was planning to address the commissioners that morning.

That part of Ocean Boulevard, she explained, is “a calming area” for traffic.

The right of way abuts the Whispering Sands complex, Luckner pointed out, which could lead to disruptions for residents of that community. The spaces would be next to their points of ingress and egress, Luckner noted.

She also voiced worries about people having to back out of the spaces, calling that situation “very dangerous.”

Moreover, Luckner said, the affected section of sidewalk is one of the few wide enough for pedestrians and bicyclists to share with ease, “and we need to keep those wide spaces.”

“I think that we will send letters of grave disappointment,” Luckner added, referring to communicating the SKA’s views to the commissioners.

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The Spawning of Mote SEA

By Lisa Codianne Fowler The reborn Mote Aquarium will be a traffic stopper. Literally.

Due to its carefully considered perch at Sarasota County’s Nathan Benderson Park, just west of Interstate 75 near the Mall at University Town Center in Sarasota, an average of 43 million drivers will have the facility in clear view.

To realize their sea-inspired vision, Mote contracted the architectural firm of tvsdesign Architecture & Design, with offices in Tampa, Atlanta and Shanghai. “Drivers will easily spot the iconic building, whose diaphanous skin will form smooth ellipses rising into the sky like ripples on a calm sea,” states the moteoceansforall. org website. Termed “a nexus site” for Sarasota and Manatee counties and the southwest Florida region, three million residents will be able to drive there in less than 60 minutes. For the first year, Mote anticipates 700,000 visitors to its new home, twice the organization’s current annual attendance.

Known as Mote Science Education Aquarium (SEA), a facility dedicated to education and outreach, the striking edifice will house an 110,000-squarefoot-hub of marine science on 12 sprawling acres. Inside the fourstory space, exhibits containing more than one million gallons of water will feature an array of sharks, Atlantic and Pacific coral reef species, manatees, sea

Mote SEA will be on the grounds of Nathan Benderson Park, Sarasota.

turtles, otters, and myriad other wildlife. Visitors will be treated to glimpses of the deep sea and other remote habitats, including Mote research sites from across the globe. For a special fee, intrepid adults will be able to gear up, dive in, and plunge into an enormous shark tank where they will have the opportunity to

safely swim with these enormous fish. The tank will hold a halfmillion gallons of saltwater that replicates the sharks’ Gulf of Mexico habitat.

A state-of-the-art teaching facility, Mote SEA will include hands-on interactive STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) teaching labs.

The new exhibits at Mote SEA will showcase a stunning array of marine life.

Educational programming will be available, free-of-charge, to approximately 70,000 students from Sarasota and Manatee County schools. “Mote SEA will expand formal STEM education to each and every K-12 student in Sarasota and Manatee County Public Schools and transform our ability or provide informal

science education and enhanced levels of ocean literacy to much larger and more diverse populations in our community,” said Mote Marine President and CEO, Dr. Michael P. Crosby.

Crosby also noted that “Mote SEA will generate a significant boost for our regional economy and further support innovative research for the sustainable use and conservation of our oceans.”

As of July 2020, according to MOTE, supporters had provided or pledged approximately $75 million of the total goal of $130 million for the Oceans for All capital campaign in support of Mote SEA. Sarasota County committed $20 million, and Manatee County committed $5 million.

“Groundbreaking for Mote SEA will occur by the end of the year,” Stephanie Kettle, Public Relations Manager, told the Siesta Sand.

“We are continuing to wrap up the permitting and construction planning process to ensure site work begins shortly following the groundbreaking ceremony.” Additional information on the new facility can be found at Mote.org and MoteOceansforAll.org.

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NOVEMBER 2020

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Island Chatter Trolley still ‘Breeze-ing’ along

The Siesta Key Breeze has been able to meet recent demand, even with coronavirus pandemic protocols in place, Jane Grogg, interim director of Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT), has reported.

In August, the openair trolley carried 6,669 passengers. For September, the total was 7,289.

“CPR Medical Transport LLC [which operates the Breeze] continues with distancing measures on the Trolley, just as when service resumed in June,” Grogg wrote in an email. “That includes blocking every other bench. Also, their drivers are required to wear facemasks when in any Trolley (encouraged but not required of passengers). Trolley capacity is adequate to cover current demand,” she added.

During the most recent Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce members meeting, conducted on June 17, Nathan Reid, general manager of the Breeze, explained that June 15 was the first day the trolley was back in operation after the county ordered a halt in its service in late March. That March action followed county leaders’ decision to close the public beaches in an effort to keep people safe during the pandemic.

County staff responds to streetlight outages After receiving comments from a reader about lighting

outages in Siesta Village, the SNL checked in with Lisa Cece, the special district coordinator for Sarasota County who oversees the Village upkeep as county liaison with the Siesta Key Village Maintenance Corp.

The Siesta Key Village Maintenance manager undertakes night inspections to evaluate the Village streetlights, Cece wrote in an email. Three had been reported out, she added, so the county’s Traffic Operations staff worked to ensure they shone once again.

However, after the SNL let Cece know that one streetlight continued to be out, she replied that she would make a request for staff to check it.

Additionally, the SNL told her in mid-October that a reader had reported that the Florida Power & Light Co. (FPL) streetlight at Beach Access 5 was out.

Cece responded that she was unaware of that situation, but she would get the number for the pole there and report the situation to FPL. Residents will call her to report FPL outages, she added, so she can make requests of the company to address them.

Otherwise, she noted, residents may contact FPL themselves.

What happened to the ‘concrete triangles’?

The SNL also asked Lisa Cece, the county’s special districts coordinator, about a report regarding removal of the concrete triangles that

3.58% decrease in their new millage rate, from 1.7704 mills to 1.7071 mills. That district’s funds pay for the upkeep of Siesta Village.

The Siesta Key Lighting District property owners also will have a lower millage rate for the 2021 fiscal year. It fell 5.56%, from 0.0072 mills to 0.0068 mills.

Kayak tour operators complain about new bid process

Curb removal at Hannah Plaza in Siesta Key VIllage. Photo by Lisa Cece

long had been in place on the east side of Ocean Boulevard, between Beach Bazaar and Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.

Cece explained that after county Public Works Department staff reviewed various issues related to the four triangular curbs in that section of Siesta Village, a decision was made to remove the structures. Siesta architect Mark Smith, who has been one of the leaders of the Siesta Key Village Maintenance Corp. over the years, had no objection to that decision, Cece noted.

“Over the years,” she wrote in an email, “landscaping intended for these [triangular]

beds did not survive, and vehicles frequently drove over them.”

“Drivers will need to avoid blocking the crosswalk at Gilligan’s,” Cece pointed out, “but this change will enhance parking along the east side of Ocean Boulevard.”

Good news for Siesta Village property owners

Along with approving the budget for the 2021 fiscal year — which began on Oct. 1 — the Sarasota County Commission approved the millage rates for special districts in the county.

Among those is the Siesta Key Public Improvement District.

Property owners will see a

Kayak tour operators at both Turtle Beach Park and Ted Sperling Park have protested a Sarasota County bid process launched in September that they say will put them out of business.

The Invitation for Bids (IFB) formally calls for suppliers “to provide non-motorized water vessel activities” at Turtle Beach Park on Siesta Key and Ted Sperling Park on Lido Key “for an initial term of three years.” Two annual renewals of the contracts are possible.

An Excel spreadsheet included in the solicitation shows estimated bids for operations at Turtle Beach Park ranging from $720,000 to $240,000.

The bid period, which began on Sept. 21, originally was to end at 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 4.

However, the deadline was extended to 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 18. An addendum to the IFB explained, “Due to the receipt of a protest, the County is halting the solicitation process Continued on page 20

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Financial Focus Each year, Veterans Day allows us to show our respect for the sacrifices that military veterans have made for our country. But have you ever stopped to think about what lessons our veterans can teach us about how we conduct various aspects of our lives? For example, consider the following traits and how they might apply to your actions as an investor: • Perseverance – Even veterans who have not served in armed combat have had to persevere in challenging situations.

The military life is not an easy one, as it often involves frequent moves, living in foreign countries, time away from loved ones, and so on. As an investor, in what ways do you need to show perseverance? For one thing, you’ll need to stick it out even in the face of volatile markets and short-term losses. And you’ll need the discipline to make investing a top priority

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What Can Investors Learn from Veterans?

throughout your life, even with all the other financial demands you face.

• Willingness to learn and adapt – During the course of their service, military veterans frequently need to learn new skills for their deployments.

Furthermore, living as they often do in foreign countries, they must adapt to new cultures and customs. When you invest, you’re learning new things, not only about changes in the economic environment and new investment opportunities, but also about yourself – your risk tolerance, your investment preferences, and your views about your ideal retirement lifestyle. Your ability to learn new investment behaviors and to adapt to changing circumstances can help determine your long-term success.

• Awareness of the “big picture” – All members of the military

know that their individual duties, while perhaps highly specific, are nonetheless part of a much bigger picture – the security of their country. When you make an investment decision, it might seem relatively minor, but each move you make should contribute to your larger goals – college for your children (or grandchildren), a comfortable retirement, a legacy for your family or any other objective.

And if you can keep in mind that your actions are all designed to help you meet these types of goals, you will find it easier to stay focused on your long-term investment strategy and not overreact to negative events, such as market downturns.

• Sense of duty – It goes without saying that veterans and military personnel have felt, and still feel, a sense of duty. As an investor, you are

trying to meet some personal goals, such as an enjoyable retirement lifestyle, but you, too, are acting with a sense of duty in some ways, because you’re also investing to help your family. There are the obvious goals, like sending children to college or helping them start a business, but you’re also making their lives easier by maintaining your financial independence throughout your life, freeing them of potential financial burdens. This can be seen quite clearly when you take steps, such as purchasing longterm care insurance, to protect yourself from the potentially catastrophic costs of an extended nursing home stay.

Military veterans have a lot to teach us in many activities of life – and investing is one of them. So, on Veterans Day, do what you can to honor our veterans and follow their

behaviors as you chart your own financial future.

Edward Jones. Member SIPC.

Joe St.Onge, ChFC® Financial Advisor Edward Jones Investments 5112 Ocean Blvd., 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.

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Nonprofit organizations plan to appeal EPA decision on ‘fish farm’ off Sarasota County coast

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com

Just days after the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced that it plans to issue a permit to Hawaii-based Ocean Era for a pilot “fish farm” off the coast of Sarasota County, representatives of a number of local and national environmental nonprofits said they planned to appeal the decision.

Additionally, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) formally opened a public comment period for anyone wishing to offer thoughts about the “Section 10” permit Ocean Era needs from it to pursue the initiative.

Section 10, the USACE explains, “prohibits the unauthorized obstruction or alteration of any navigable waterway of the United States (U.S.).”

Nakeir Nobles of the USACE told the SNL in an early October email, “At this time we do not have a tentative decision date.”

She explained, “We review all permit applications in accordance with the federal regulations that guide our decision-making. Once our review is complete, we will make a permit decision .… The Corps of Engineers is neither a proponent [nor] opponent of any proposed project. Our mission is to provide the regulated public with fair and reasonable decisions while providing protection of the nation’s aquatic resources and navigation.”

Ocean Era plans to place 20,000 almaco jack in a metal net in the Gulf of Mexico, which would be deployed on a multi-swivel mooring system with “three concrete deadweight anchors,” the EPA and the USACE explained in a draft Environmental Assessment

(EA) that they released in April 2019. The cage’s depth would be about 130 feet, an EPA fact sheet says. “The cage will be a copper alloy mesh submersible circular [structure] with a diameter of 17 meters and a height of 7 meters, the fact sheet adds.

Dr. Neal Schleifer of Siesta Key, who has provided public comments during the EPA hearing, pointed out to the SNL that the EPA did not originally plan a public hearing on its permit process. The number of comments it began receiving about the Ocean Era proposal changed the agency leaders’ decision, he said.

If the USACE received enough comments, he added, he was hopeful officials at that agency would change course, as well, and conduct a hearing.

Justin Bloom, founder of the Sarasota-based Suncoast Waterkeeper organization, said that it was likely that Suncoast Waterkeeper and the Tampa Bay Waterkeeper would appeal the EPA decision. “There will be a coalition of groups, including the Center for Biological Diversity, Friends of the Earth, Food and Water Watch and, possibly, the Manatee-Sarasota Group of the Sierra Club,” he added.

Marianne Cufone, Executive Director of Recirculating Farms Coalition, also told the SNL in an Oct. 5 email, “Recirculating Farms is absolutely planning to appeal the EPA permit, in cooperation with others in the Don’t Cage Our Ocean Coalition. There are so many questions about the process and content of the permit documents,” Cufone pointed out.

“It is important for our federal agencies to follow the law, and

Photographer: Rick Decker ©Rick Decker http://www.lightreflection.com accurately and completely assess the risks associated with projects they permit, as they are tasked with protecting and managing our natural resources for all of us.

Approval of this permit is a failure of the process and it should be reviewed.”

Schleifer of Siesta Key told the SNL that the EPA “acknowledged that … the great majority [of the comments submitted] were in opposition to the fish farm.”

A formal document the EPA issued along with notice of the permit award to Ocean Era said that it “received approximately 44,500 comments from various interested individuals and parties …”

Especially in light of that, Schleifer added, “Many people feel that the response from the EPA was not adequate.”

In line with Bloom’s and Cufone’s remarks, Schleifer said, “It looks like many different groups and many individuals” will participate in the appeals process.

He also noted the diversity of comments during a Sept.

30 virtual public hearing on the USACE permit, including speakers from many parts of the United States. “I’m impressed with how many people are turning out.”

Siesta Key Association (SKA) Directors Margaret Jean Cannon and Tom Surprise were among the participants in that hearing.

Asked about the SKA’s response to the EPA decision, President Catherine Luckner wrote in an Oct. 5 email, “We cannot support anything that may increase risk of ‘red tide’ occurrence.”

She added, “The devastation we experienced in our gulf waters was horrific — for marine life, people and our economy.”

Luckner was referring to the last major red tide event in Southwest Florida, which began in the fall of 2017 and continued into early 2019.

“EPA’s decision to issue this permit ignores the overwhelming opposition from frontline communities that will be most

impacted by the facility,” Hallie Templeton, Senior Oceans Campaigner for Friends of the Earth, wrote in a statement.

“Recent red tide events and tropical weather patterns make it clear that without a healthy ecosystem, the entire region suffers. Yet EPA has prioritized corporate interests over community sentiment and its own mandate to protect the environment,” Templeton added.

On Oct. 1, Jeaneanne Gettle, director of the EPA’s Water Division, formally notified Neil Anthony Sims, President and CEO of Ocean Era — formerly Kampachi Farms — that the federal agency had issued the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit that the company needs to establish the fish farm about 45 miles west/southwest of Longboat Pass.

A Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI) that the EPA issued in conjunction with the permit said the environmental review process the EPA conducted “indicates that no significant environmental impacts are anticipated from the proposed action.”

The NPDES permit formally authorizes Ocean Era to discharge wastewater from an aquatic animal production facility producing up to 80,000 pounds per year, according to the EPA fact sheet accompanying the permit decision. The maximum amount of feed given to the fish each month has been estimated at 27,268, the EPA fact sheet points out.

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Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2020

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Handling Processed Pet Food: It Takes a Little Care

By Kyle Baker, Senior Pet Food Nutritionist If you’re a long-time dog parent and have your pup’s diet plan locked in after years of refinement, we’re guessing you might be buying food in bulk. It’s a time and money saving trick that many dog parents use to streamline canine care, but without proper oversight it can be costly in the long run.

While commercially processed dog foods tend to have longer shelf lives, they don’t last forever. And without proper storage, that can end even faster—and potentially cause bigger issues.

Fortunately, we’ve got a few tips that can help keep your pup happy and healthy, and allow you to maintain the routine that works best for you.

Start with Expiration Dates

Whether you’re familiar with your dog’s diet or you’ve just added a new furry family member, you should always check expiration dates when buying dog food. They’re easy to find – just look for the “best by” date, typically located on the bottom of bags or cans. These dates represent the food’s freshness before opening, and can vary depending on food type and the manufacturer’s quality and safety standards.

Dry pet foods have a shelf life of 12-18 months. Once opened, dry food lasts roughly 2-3 weeks, so make sure you’re buying the appropriate volume. Canned foods are good for two years from the manufacturing date. Once the top is popped, canned food will remain fresh for 3-5 days with the help of an airtight lid and refrigeration.

Open that calendar app and set a reminder to serve your dog’s food before expiration. It may seem tedious, but you’ll thank us later.

Store Processed Food Properly

Next, it’s imperative to ensure you create the right storage solution for your dog’s food—particularly with dry kibble.

If you’re like many dog parents, big bags of dry food get relegated to the garage, but that’s a major no-no as heat, moisture, and even air can spell trouble for kibble.

To maintain stability, kibble should be stored in a cool, dry place away from shifts in temperature. Under these conditions, experts recommend keeping kibble in its original bag, which is designed to protect food from the elements. Again, make sure you’re buying the right size bag for a 2-3 week

signs of dehydration in your dog— like a dry nose or eyes, brittle fur, or heavy panting—you can readily change that by pairing wet food with dry food or adding water or animal broth and toppers to kibble.

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Look for Quality Ingredients

timeline. If you do decide to go bigger, we recommend storing the bag in a sealed container.

Why is proper storage so critical?

During processing, kibble is heated and dried to remove moisture and prevent oxidation, which can breed mold and bacteria. Each time a bag or container is opened, food can lose palatability and nutritional value as fats are oxidized and the food is robbed of beneficial vitamins and minerals. With prolonged exposure, healthy fats can spoil and become rancid, creating an unpleasant smell. But even more important than the odor are the possible long-term effects as consumption of rancid fats can contribute to health issues like malnutrition, kidney and liver disease, reproductive problems, and even cancer or death.

If you’ve had food awhile and are unsure if it’s gone bad, keep an eye on your pup to see if they turn their nose up to what’s on the menu.

As we’ve mentioned previously, you can give yourself and your dog a leg up by starting with good ingredients. Aware that oxidation and nutrient loss can be an issue, many pet food manufacturers supplement products with antioxidants, multi-vitamins and fresh foods to prevent free radicals and maximize health benefits.

When investigating labels, keep an eye out for antioxidants like blueberries and cranberries, sources of Omega-3 fatty acids like marine microalgae, and chelated minerals that help support immune function and nutrient absorption. And remember, if you need a hand, you can always consult your vet or local independent pet retailer.

With a little research, proper storage, and a solid plan, you can guarantee your pup’s diet is always on point.

Radar is a one-year-old Portuguese Water Dog. Radar loves car rides … especially if he is riding shotgun. He loves to play with his sister Ripley, running with mom, and is loving, loyal, and very friendly … to people and dogs.

He has never met a dog he doesn’t want to play with. Lastly, Radar’s only fault is he has the misconception he is a lap dog.

Keep Your Pup Hydrated

Ever try eating cereal without milk?

It’s just not as good, right? At best, the experience isn’t what the manufacturer intended.

Somewhat similarly, while heating and drying keeps kibble fresh, it’s best with a little water. When eaten, dry kibble rehydrates in your dog’s stomach with the help of stomach fluid. If your pup is properly hydrated, they’ll comfortably digest the kibble for a nutrient boost. But if your pup isn’t getting enough water, their stomach will source moisture from throughout the body to assist digestion, potentially leading to dehydration.

Adequate hydration is a crucial part of maintaining your dog’s body temperature, aiding circulation, and promoting proper digestion. If you see

Meet Radar

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

Author Kyle Baker, Senior Pet Food Nutritionist at DOGPerfect, has a passion for educating pet parents on the power of nutrition and how it can improve their pet’s lives with proper food, supplements and treats. DOGPerfect is a locally owned and operated pet supply store with locations in The Landings, University Park, and Lakewood Ranch. Visit www. dogperfect.com for more information and to sign-up for a free one-on-one nutrition consult with Kyle.

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Construction Update Water line project & Fire Station #13

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As anyone that has recently driven by the intersection of Midnight Pass and Beach Road can attest, there is a lot of construction currently underway at that location.

Specifically, there are two projects being undertaken at the same time.

First, Sarasota County, though an awarded contract, is relocating and replacing portions of the potable water lines. The current water lines are undersized and are being replaced with lines that will improve water capacity for residents and for fire protection purposes. The initial completion date of the project was projected to be in October 2020. However, the county has indicated to the Siesta Sand that construction is running approximately a month behind and is currently scheduled to be completed at some point in November 2020.

The reasons given for the slight delay were utility conflicts discovered during excavation and installation of the new pipes

as well as compliance with the contractor’s procedures.

Second, the new Fire Station #13 is being constructed at the intersection. The construction has been met with several challenges, including COVID-related labor and material shortages, rain delays, and the redesign of foundations in order to comply with the new FEMA floodplain maps.

As a result of these challenges the contractor has been granted an addition 53 days that can be used to extend the construction timeline.

However, at this point in time, the contractor still is hopeful of meeting the June 2021 completion date.

Contractor still hopeful to finish Fire Station #13 on schedule in spite of various delays.

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

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NOVEMBER 2020

Siesta Key Chapel welcomes new Senior Pastor and celebrates 50th anniversary As Siesta Key Chapel Key Chapel’s golden jubilee as celebrates its 50th anniversary a church in the tree tops with a as a Presbyterian USA church, congregation of friendly people, the Reverend Dr. Ruth Herron all caring about the needs of Smalt has been called as its sixth each other and the needs of the senior pastor. Reverend Smalt comes to Siesta Key from the historic First Congregational Church on the island of Nantucket, Massachusetts.

Pastor Ruth was raised in Rye, New York, and holds a Ph.D. in Educational Administration & Supervision, a Master of Science in Education, and a Master of Divinity. Seminary had long been in God’s plan.

She was always active in her church as a leader and teacher, as well as a national speaker at Christian camps and Reverend Dr. Ruth Herron Smalt conferences, while engaged in her careers (educator community. and non-profit executive director) “Our big excitement is and raising a family. Once her preparing for the Chapel’s 50th girls were off to college, the time anniversary golden jubilee was right to follow God’s calling. celebration on Sunday, November “The people of Siesta Key 8, when we will meet on the Chapel have been warm and physical campus of the Chapel, welcoming in creative ways as well as live-streaming the during this season of social morning,” said Pastor Ruth. The distancing,” said Pastor Ruth. service will include worship with The appointment of Pastor special music, installation of the Ruth coincides with the 50th senior pastor by the Peace River anniversary of the church. On Presbytery, communion, and a November 8, 1970, Siesta Key celebration of the past 50 years as Chapel began worshiping at we envision a bright future at the the Out-Of-Door School. This Chapel and in the community. impromptu sanctuary spoke Siesta Key Chapel is putting to the first worshipers of a plans in place for a gradual, chapel in the woods. There small group opening in late fall. was something elemental in it Concurrently, Pastor Ruth invites for worshipers, both in spirit congregants and leadership to and in the ultimate simplicity one-on-one outdoor “meet-theof the building. Three years pastor” time in the Memorial would pass before a permanent Garden, under the Pavilion, and location and groundwork for a out in the community. She makes new building could be achieved. pastoral care visits to the hospital The first service of worship in and to homes, meeting outdoors the new sanctuary came to pass whenever possible, finding ways on Maundy Thursday, March to safely and joyfully care for her 27, 1975. This year marks Siesta congregation.

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Federal judge issues final ruling on Save Our Siesta Sand 2 lawsuit

By Rachel Brown Hackney SarasotaNewsLeader.com SarasotaNewsLeader.com

The lawsuit Save Our Siesta Sand 2 (SOSS2) filed against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) in January 2019, to try to stop the removal of sand from Big Sarasota Pass to renourish about 1.6 miles of Lido Key Beach, has formally concluded.

Responding to an SOSS2 motion filed in the late fall of 2019, seeking a finding that the USACE had not complied with federal environmental policies in planning for the Lido Key Hurricane and Storm Damage Reduction Project, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Steven D. Merryday wrote in a Sept. 30 order, “A review of the administrative record [in the legal case] confirms that the Corps arrived at rational conclusions compelled by a thorough review of the project’s effect on the affected environment.”

Merryday is chief judge of the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Florida, in Tampa.

In one section of the ruling, Merryday wrote, “None of SOSS2’s arguments offer a convincing reason to dismiss the expertise of the Corps, particularly because SOSS2 repeats unfounded arguments about stale data … and incomplete analysis … both of which arguments fail …” For one example, the judge pointed to the fact that although the USACE incorporated older National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) documents into its initial Environmental Assessment, the USACE “generated [a] 2018 environmental assessment to refresh the scientific basis for the project … even though aspects of the project remain unaffected since earlier findings.”

SOSS2 Chair Mark Smith told the SNL during the summer that the nonprofit would seek a formal conclusion to the case, because that would enable it to file an appeal with

the U.S. Court of Appeals for the 11th Circuit, which is in Atlanta. Merryday’s ruling for the USACE in the case was expected, Smith indicated at the time, because, in early July, Merryday rebuked SOSS2 after the nonprofit filed a motion for a Temporary Restraining Order (TRO) to prevent dredging in Big Pass before the SOSS2 case had ended at the U.S. District Court level. Merryday swiftly denied the TRO motion.

Contacted about Merryday’s final ruling, Smith told the SNL that the nonprofit’s leaders again had discussed the option of an appeal.

“We’re not going to [do that],” he added. A retired federal judge who lives on Siesta Key advised them against it, Smith noted.

Smith did express frustration about the resolution of the federal complaint. “It’s just so bizarre that the case is closed without [the judge’s allowing SOSS2 to be] heard. We’re kind of beside ourselves.”

He added, “You just find yourself kind of wondering about the whole [federal government] system.” SOSS2 leaders and members do not believe the USACE is “doing the right thing,” he continued, but a federal judge says, “‘It’s fine.’ … As a citizen, you sit there and go, ‘Wow.’” With the dredging and sand placement on Lido expected to continue until at least midNovember — based on the USACE project team’s timeline estimate in early October — Smith said, “I would suggest to everybody that’s on the water [on Siesta Key to] document [it] if they see any erosion and damage to their property.”

Smith added that he had heard from a boater that the channel in Big Pass has been “shifting dangerously close to the beach,” which could lead to problems for people in vessels in the waterway as well as for people enjoying recreation in the water.

Satellite photo from 2018 shows Siesta Key south of Lido Key, with Big Pass separating the islands. Image from Google Earth

“Just keep track of what’s going on” is his advice to property owners and residents on the barrier island.

More facets of the ruling

In providing background on the complaint, Merryday wrote in his final order, “Despite the Corps’s and the City of Sarasota’s prevention efforts, Lido Key’s shoreline continues to erode. … In 2018, the Corps and the City of Sarasota proposed a ‘beach nourishment’ and ‘groins’ construction project to strengthen the shoreline,” Merryday added.

(In reality, it was September 2013 when the USACE unveiled the plans for the removal of sand from Big Pass to renourish Lido Key’s critically eroded beach. The USACE also proposed groins on South Lido, to try to keep the new sand in place between subsequent renourishment initiatives. In March 2015, the USACE and the city filed their application for a permit from the Florida Department of Environmental Protection to pursue the Lido project.)

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Merryday noted in his order that parts of the sand borrow areas in Big Pass “fall within ‘Outstanding Florida Waters,’ which require ‘special protection’ because of natural attributes,” including threatened or endangered species.

He added that the USACE prepared an Environmental Assessment to determine whether the dredging of Big Pass would constitute a “major federal action” — “that is,” Merryday wrote, “an action ‘significantly affecting the quality of the human environment,’ including the natural attributes. …

The Corps’ environmental assessment concluded with a ‘finding of no significant impact on the human environment.’” That relieved the agency of the need to prepare an Environmental Impact Study (EIS), “which requires a ‘full and fair discussion of significant environmental impacts,’” he added, quoting from a 2002 opinion of the 11th U.S. Circuit

Court of Appeals.

“SOSS2 suggests a properly prepared environmental assessment and EIS would support a different conclusion about the proper sand sources for the [Lido] project,” he added.

The nonprofit’s claims, Merryday explained, were governed by the U.S. Administrative Procedure Act. Under that act, Merryday continued, “[T]he Corps’ actions must prevail unless the agency acts arbitrarily, capriciously, in abuse of discretion, or otherwise not in accord with law. … ‘This standard is exceedingly deferential,’” he wrote, quoting from another ruling by the 11th Circuit Court.

“SOSS2 fails to provide convincing evidence that the Corps inadequately examined the effect of the [Lido] project, especially considering the depth of analysis by the Corps during the years before the project,” Merryday wrote.

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Gifts from the Sea

By Jane Bartnett Prized and collected by coastal people for thousands of years, seashells are a gift from the sea.

Followers of Feng Shui believe that they bring happiness and good luck. For the awardwinning Sarasota artist Susan McNichol who has worked in art forms as diverse as woodwork, painting, jewelry, hairdressing, and now seashell design, the unique shapes and colors of shells are her inspiration and joy.

“Seashells and mermaids have always been a favorite of mine,” said the Ontario, Canada native who made Sarasota her home nearly 20 years ago.

suggested that they design oil lamps using beautiful shells as the container for the oil. Together, the couple began to experiment with design and function. “We got right on it,” she recalled, noting that “after months of testing and some time spent on trial and error, we came up with the right combination of shells and stone.” They soon went on to patent their break-through design called Seashell Oil Lamps. Each lamp features a wick that never burns away and an exquisite

Artist Susan McNichol with her Mermaid Seashell Windchime.

One day about 10 years ago, when her husband David Cerniglia, a stone mason, was creating a stone oil lamp for a client, McNichol had an idea. She

shell that serves as the vessel for the oil that houses the wick and unobtrusive casing that reflects the flickering light. Each McNichol Seashell Oil Lamp is

slightly different. The shells that she uses in her work are imported from all over the world and sourced from reputable vendors. The Jade Turbo shell is her favorite. Originating from the Indian Ocean, it reflects the blue-green colors of the ocean. She also favors the Striped Fox conch shell, found in the waters off the coast of Southeast Africa and the Western Pacific Ocean. When creating her larger pieces, McNichol often selects the dramatic pink and peach colored Triton shell, imported from the Caribbean and named for a mythological Greek god of the sea. She finishes her pieces by adorning the lamps with colored sea glass, smaller shells and other natural wonders of nature that frame the larger shell. “I test every shell before incorporating it into a Seashell Oil Lamp design,” she advised.

Susan McNichol’s work is featured on her website: www. mcstoneworks.net and on the MC Stoneworks Facebook page.

Over the years, word of the uniquely beautiful Seashell Oil Lamps grew as McNichol and Cerniglia sold their creations at coastal shows and fairs all around Florida. “People from all around the world have bought our lamps,” McNichol said with pride. “Recently,” she said, “a couple from Ireland became customers.” Although Cerniglia passed away in 2018, McNichol is continuing to carry on the couple’s successful business. In early 2020, her design won first place at the Sarasota Seashell Show in the Professional Lamp Category. A featured artist at the

Paradise Dermatology

A practice defined by its innovation and compassion.

The importance of keeping your skin healthy cannot be overstated. It is your body’s largest organ and your first defense against infection, environmental exposures and the outside world.

Your skin also tells your story. It provides a window into your overall health. Dermatology practitioners are skilled in treating all forms of skin issues – from breakouts and itchy rashes to skin cancers, including melanoma. They can also recommend treatments to improve the look and feel of the skin, including lasers, peels and injectable treatments.

Led by Dr. Michelle Pennie, Paradise Dermatology offers compassionate,

advanced care for a range of both medical and aesthetic dermatological needs, including full-body skin checks, acne and other chronic issues, Mohs skin cancer surgery, as well as a variety of revolutionary cosmetic treatments.

In 2012, Dr. Pennie took over a solo practice in Englewood from a retiring physician. She had moved to Sarasota a year prior and was ready to stay put after moving her twin boys from Atlanta and then St. Louis for her training. While there was a great opportunity for her to join the faculty at the University of Florida, she decided to call Sarasota home.

Acquiring the practice allowed her to

build a business based on her values – patient centered, compassionate, caring and family-friendly. This approach brings a blend of personal attention and expertise that is loved by patients. As such, Paradise Dermatology has expanded from a small five exam room clinic to its two modern offices in Sarasota and Englewood. The team includes board-certified Dr. Chelsea Duggan, three Physician Assistants, two Nurse Practitioners, and over 30 staff – several of which have been with Dr. Pennie since the beginning.

Medical dermatology requires patience and innovation along with a thirst for lifelong learning and exploration. Dr. Pennie is a board-certified dermatologist and a fellowship-trained Mohs surgeon.

In fact, she is one of only a handful of dermatologists on the west coast of Florida to complete a year-long fellowship training program in Mohs micrographic surgery. This procedure is considered to be the most effective treatment for most types of skin cancer. Additionally, she is skilled in reconstruction, so she is able to

A Susan McNichol Seashell Oil Lamp design.

new Coastal Flow Ocean Inspired Design & Decor store at 7216 South Tamiami Trail, McNichol’s Seashell Oil Lamps are available in a range of sizes and prices. Her small Seashell Oil Lamps begin at $39.00. Additional larger Seashell Lamps are sold for $59.99, $89.99, and $99.99. Her largest pieces begin at $299.00. McNichol told the Siesta Sand that the lamps can burn paraffin and citronella.

Fretwork Woodworking Designs

McNichol is also a master of fretwork, an intricate ornamental wood design done with a woodworking fret saw that originated more than 3,000 years ago in ancient Egypt for furniture inlays. Many of her intricate, whimsical fretwork pieces can be found alongside her Seashell Oil Lamps at the Coastal Flow store. A mermaid wind chime,

surgically remove all the cancer cells and repair the defect in one visit.

Dr. Chelsea Duggan focuses her practice on the art of medical dermatology and aesthetic dermatology. She enjoys treating patients of all ages, from young kids to our oldest citizens.

She oversees the team who provides medical dermatology services as well as aesthetic treatments.

Aesthetic dermatology treatments continue to be in high demand for their consistent results with minimal downtime. The highly trained and experienced professionals at Paradise Dermatology offer the latest in scientific technology and advancements.

They take the time to meet with each patient to develop a customized plan based on individual goals and expectations. They use precise techniques to provide a non-invasive approach to anti-aging, delivering consistently optimal and notable results. Some of the aesthetic services offered include Radiofrequency (RF) Microneedling, Plaxpot plasma resurfacing, Broadband Light (BBL), Excel V vascular laser and Laser Genesis. These can combat the signs of aging by tightening and smoothing the skin, stimulating collagen production and naturally decreasing wrinkles

that retails for $79, is “a customer favorite,” according to Jesse Gill, co-owner of the Coastal Flow shop. McNichol’s other decorative fretwork pieces that include wine glass holders and stand-alone wood sculptures, range in price from $40 - $150.

“My grandfather taught me how to use a scroll saw as a teenager in the 60s,” she said.

That led her to win the title of Grand Champion at the Indiana State Fair. “Later on, I discovered that fretwork is more intricate than just scroll sawing,” said the artist. To prepare her intricate creations, McNichol sketches many of her designs on paper, often featuring mermaids and seashells in her designs. “They’ve always been a favorite. I give the mermaids different hair styles and really have fun with them,” she said with a laugh.

and sagging skin – all with minimal downtime. They can also address a wide range of complexion concerns, including redness and brown spots, to restore a more youthful appearance.

The results can be dramatic, but natural and long-lasting.

Keeping your skin healthy is essential.

At Paradise Dermatology, they believe that ensuring your ongoing skin wellness requires a comprehensive, compassionate approach where medical, cosmetic and surgical experts collaborate to bring patients the highest level of care. “We aim to make all our patients feel better about their skin and about themselves,” said Dr. Pennie. “Whether it is a skin cancer screen or a cosmetic procedure, our patients feel comfortable and confident in their treatment.”

Paradise Dermatology is currently accepting new patients at their locations in Sarasota and Englewood.

To schedule an appointment, visit ParadiseDerm.com or call 941.921.4131 (Sarasota) or 941.474.8811 (Englewood).

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Siesta Key Fitness Center: Now a Members Only Club, Wins Praise

By Jane Bartnett For any fitness buff who’s imagined having their own state-of--the-art fitness center at the ready anytime of the day or night, your time has come. Tucked away behind the Daiquiri Deck at Avenida Navarra, in Siesta Key Village, the popular Siesta Key Fitness Center is thriving as a newly transformed, 24-hour, membersonly fitness club. Each member has their own personal entry

code. Video monitoring, inside and out, ensures security.

Owned and managed by Bruce and De Day, the facility has been a well-known part of the Siesta Key Village business community since 2007.

When COVID-19 struck, the Days successfully transformed their high-volume workout center that “saw about 30,000 visitor workouts last year,” according to Bruce Day, into

the private fitness club that it is today. The couple reduced occupancy by 90% and installed new air conditioning systems with state-of-the-art UV Systems. As the season begins, “The Center,” Day reports, “is thriving.”

Bob Spicer, a Siesta Key resident and a long-time client, can’t say enough about the changes made to the Center. “I love the new format,” he said. “I’m a gym rat,” reported the 65-year old retired P&G executive, who noted that he visits the Center six days a week. “I love the intimacy. It’s so clean.

Bruce and De are the best trainers,” said Spicer. “The Days run a fabulous business and the place meets all of our needs,” he noted, commenting Siesta Key Fitness Center member Bob Spicer with owners, personal trainers & fitness that he and his wife experts Be and Bruce Day, at the Center that is now a private membership facility. ride their bikes there and generally find “no and credentialed Personal visitor to The Siesta Key Fitness more than three people Trainers.

Day’s professional Center. Private memberships are in the Center at a time.” background includes more than available for one, three and six “People tell us that 36 years in physical therapy month periods, as well as on an they feel as though they and injury rehabilitation. De annual basis. More information have a place that belongs Day’s expertise is in training is available by calling (941) to them,” Day said. and nutrition.

They are joined 349-8500, or email - info@ “We are committed to by a third certified professional SiestaKeyFitness.com. like-minded people and trainer, Mike Kaplonski, who “The people that come keeping everyone safe brings more than 12 years of here love it,” Day said. “Our and healthy.” In addition experience to the Center. members are very courteous to serving as owners A full range of equipment, and respectful of each other’s and managers of the including machines, free space and safety. They feel as Siesta Key Fitness Center, Siesta Key Fitness is located at 5243 Avenida Navarra on Siesta Key. weights, aerobic step with risers, though they have a place that Bruce and De Day are medicine balls, etc., awaits the belongs to them.” also highly experienced

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www.siestasand.net

Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Update October Networking Luncheon at Connors Steak & Seafood The Chamber’s November luncheon was a huge hit!

Members met at Connors to network and listen to special guest speaker, Tony Daum. Tony spoke to the attendees about ‘How to Prosper Out of Covid’.

Businesses that donated door prizes: Sherwin Williams, GEM Travel Consultants, SERVPRO of South Sarasota, Stitchin’

networking, Latin-inspired cuisine and sand sculpting.

Special guest Andy Daily from Sandventure Crew created a memorable mermaid for the 2021 Crystal Classic Save the Date sculpture (November 12th -16th, 2021). Adam Cellini of Visit Sarasota County attended and documented the event; the video will be available on Facebook!

Andy Daily of Sandventure Crew with the 2021 Crystal Classic Save the Date sculpture.

Members listen intently as Tony Daum touched on many topics including ‘How to Prosper Out of Covid’.

Memories, Kona Ice Sarasota, Il Panificio Siesta, Beach Place, Siesta Village Dentistry, and College H.U.N.K.S. Hauling Junk & Moving.

October Business Card Exchange at Siesta Key Beach Concessions on the Siesta Sun Deck Members met at Siesta Sun Deck for an evening of

There were many door prizes donated including a surfboard.

Businesses donating door prizes were: Personalized Fitness and Massage Center, Sherwin Williams, Stitchin’ Memories, Pesky Bug Stay Away Spray, and Siesta Key Aqua Adventures.

Also, Warren LaBonte, owner of Siesta Key Concession, donated the raffle prize, a beautiful basket of 12 bottles of wine.

Winners of the wine basket raffle prize, Syd and Alice Krawczyk of Concept Digital Media with Warren LaBonte (left), owner of Siesta Key Beach Concessions and Siesta Sun Deck.

Chamber welcomes new members The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce introduced five new members in October. These businesses are: free estimates, and their work is always guaranteed.

from private Heron Lagoon dock.

28-day minimum stay.

Hibiscus Hideaway 8302 Midnight Pass Road Sarasota, FL 34242 978-346-4478 ann@hibiscus-hidawy.com About Hibiscus Hideaway: Tucked between Turtle and Crescent Beaches, this one-story, 3 BR/2 BA waterfront home offers a screened pool. Kayak and fish

IL Pancifico 215 Avenida Madera Sarasota, FL 34242 941-544-5570 About IL Panncifico: We are an Italian Pizzeria, Bakery, Market & Deli that offers hot Italian dishes from Italian recipes.

Serving Sarasota for 45 years.

Coastal Flow 7216 S Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941-445-3989 jessie@coastal-flow.com About Coastal-Flow: Ocean inspired design & décor See our ad in the Siesta Sand on page 14 Siesta Key Aqua Adventures 5253 S Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231

941-359-2782 skparasail@gmail About Siesta Key Aqua Adventures: Offers a variety of family fun on the water. Activities include Banana Boat Rides, Premium Kayak Rentals and Tours, Extreme tubing on the new Aqua Spinner, Sunset Cruises, Adventures Tours to Kokõ Island, Karaoke Cruises and more.

Lo ca S Ne l A ar w rt aso to is t ts a!

G al le ry

Ace Handyman Services Sarasota 2059 Constitution Blvd.

Suite A Sarasota, FL 34231 941-263-1900 mhorn@acehandymanservices. com About Ace Handyman Services Sarasota: Offers professional craftsmen and services for your home. Provides quick and convenient scheduling;

Sarasota’s only old-fashioned Butcher Shop, N.Y. Deli and Restaurant under one roof

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Open Monday - Saturday 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM

www.alpinesteak.com 4520 S. Tamiami Sarasota, FL 34231

941.922.3797

Wednesday- Saturday 11-4 and by appt 7216 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34231 941-445-3989 coastal-flow.com

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Phillippi Estate Park hosts Sarasota Open Air Fine Art Show The Sarasota Open Air Fine Art Show will be held outdoors on November 14 & 15, 2020, from 10 am to 5pm, at Phillippi Estate Park at 5500 S. Tamiami Trail. This quality juried fine art and fine craft show will feature artists in all disciplines selling his/her original and personally handmade art.

The focus of the show, juried by art professionals, is visual arts and features pieces created by award-winning artists from around the world, with all disciplines for sale – paintings, clay, glass, sculpture, fiber, wood, jewelry and more There is something for everyone in all price ranges. Great food from local area restaurants and music add to the ambiance of this beautiful show.

As part of their commitment to bring art education into the community, the Sarasota Open Air Fine Art Show works with the 501c3 nonprofit Institute for the Arts & Education to integrate a Youth Art Competition,

Artist, Yoram Gal, painting

Artist, Christine Moore, Mixed Media

for ages 5-13, within the art show. The Institute for the Arts & Education focuses on

Artist, Su Griggs Allen, Clay

visual arts, cultural diversity, community enrichment and fostering art education among youth.

The youth program encourages students to enter

Past participants of the Institute for the Arts & Education

Handmade Antique Rugs Bought and Sold

Florida’s Largest Selection of Antique Oriental and Chinese Rugs for 45 Years

Mosby oriental rugs

941-925-1025 by appointment

NOW OPEN FOR INDOOR DINING

www.antiqueorientalrugs.com

• 2ND Month Free • Free Move-In Truck • Entire Facility Carpeted • Free Lock & Keys • Big Garage Bay For Loading And Unloading • Climate Controlled 941.315.5222 5260 Tamiami Trail • Sarasota, FL 34231 www.thelockup.com

his/her original artwork which will be publicly displayed during the entire show. On Sunday at 3pm, $250 Youth Art Awards will be presented at the show as young artists are exposed to the rules and entrepreneurship of doing art shows for a living. Each youth art winner also receives the

Online Ordering for Take out and Delivery

same, two-foot long, colorful ribbon that the professional artists receive. The deadline to apply for the youth program is November 1st and youth applications can be made at one of the following: hotworks.org/events/ naples-fine-art-show/youthcompetition/ artsandeducationinc. org/events/sarasota-openair-fine-art-show/youthcompetition/ artsandeducationinc. org/artist-applications/ The show organizer, HotWorks.org, consistently produces art shows that are voted in the top 100 art shows in the country.

Admission to the Sarasota Open Air Fine Art Show is free. Parking is $5 and supports the Institute for the Arts & Education, Inc. COVID/CDC safety precautions will be in place including all booths a minimum 6’ apart, social distancing, and face coverings are required.

For more information on the show, go to hotworks.org.

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Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2020

Island Chatter

until the protest is resolved.

The bid shall be extended two weeks to accommodate this delay.”

On the morning of Sept. 23, four business owners appeared before the County Commission to protest the process, stressing that county staff did not engage any tour operators in discussions about the proposal or allow them to comment on it before the solicitation went live through the county’s Procurement Department.

They also emphasized the fact that they learned of the plans for the solicitation only three days before it would be advertised.

Kris Fehlberg pointed out that she is a biologist and environmental educator who worked for the county for almost a decade. More than 12 businesses with 50 employees will be affected by the IFB process, Fehlberg stressed, noting that the companies have been working “in good faith with the county.”

(Fehlberg is co-owner of BIOTICA Ecotours. Among the company’s offerings are coastal paddles launched from Turtle Beach Park.)

Not only is the change in county procedures being undertaken during a pandemic, she added, but also in the wake of “one of the worst red tide events in Sarasota history.”

These affected small businesses are already struggling, Fehlberg told the commissioners. The bidding process likely will lead to the end of her operation and her livelihood, she said. The solicitation has been structured so “only the highest bidder” will have the right to offer tours, she added. Yet, she continued, the solicitation “doesn’t take into consideration environmental protections” for park resources or require that bidders provide any details about environmental accreditations or whether they have had any conflicts with the county in the past.

“I believe this is counter to

Cosentino loses another attorney

In late spring, Siesta resident Mike Cosentino hired a new attorney, based in Tampa, for his latest appeal to Florida’s Second District Court of Appeal in his North Beach Road case.

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Continued from page 6

the county’s mission statement to protect [its parks],” Fehlberg added.

She asked that the IFB be put on hold until after county staff had engaged with the current tour operators at Turtle Beach and Sperling parks.

Another speaker that morning, Amy Tobin, predicted the bid awards would go to large, national companies.

Commissioner Nancy Detert said that she hoped county staff would take into consideration the local businesses “that respect our environment.”

Nonetheless, Detert pointed out to the tour operators, “We’re letting you use our natural resources for your own benefit.”

She did agree that the only three days of notice before the IFB solicitation was published was “probably too little [time].”

After another speaker complained about the IFB on Oct. 7, Detert said the commissioners had instructed staff “to spend a little bit more time” on the solicitation.

In response to a SNL question about the reasoning behind the IFB, county staff wrote in an email, “As a result of the growth of this [Commercial Recreation and Tour Operator] program, staff was challenged to identify a mechanism that limits the available permits to aid in balancing the use of the natural resource while providing all interested individuals/businesses a fair and equitable opportunity to provide services in the park. An IFB provides an opportunity for the greatest number of vendors to participate versus a Request for Proposal.”

(941) 957-1776

941.312.0665

She has become the latest counsel for Cosentino to take leave of him.

In a Sept. 15 motion filed with the Court of Appeal, Janelle A. Weber of Manta Law pointed out that Cosentino hired her on May 28. “Irreconcilable differences have arisen,” she explained of her decision to ask the court to allow her to pull out of the case.

Citing Rule 9.440 of the Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure and Rule 4-1.16(a) and (b) of the Florida Rules of Professional Conduct, Weber added, “Professional considerations both require and allow termination of the representation in this instance. … Reasonable notice has been given to [Cosentino].”

She explained that the rules she cited allow for withdrawal of counsel when that “‘can be accomplished without material adverse effect on the interests of the client; (2) the client insists upon taking action that the lawyer considers repugnant, imprudent, or with which the lawyer has a fundamental disagreement; (3) the client fails substantially to fulfill an obligation to the lawyer regarding the lawyer’s services and has been given reasonable warning that the lawyer will withdraw unless the obligation is fulfilled; (4) the representation will result in an unreasonable financial burden on the lawyer or has been rendered unreasonably difficult by the client; or (5) other good cause for withdrawal exists.’”

Weber’s Manta Law website does indicate that she is the only attorney with the firm, which, the website says, she founded.

While Florida Rules of Appellate Procedure require that Cosentino’s nonprofit organization, Reopen Beach Road, be represented by counsel, Weber continued, she did file the initial brief in the case for that organization.

“The Florida Rules of Appellate

Procedure do not require the filing of a Reply Brief” from Reopen Beach Road, in response to the county’s answer in the case, she added.

However, Weber pointed out, Cosentino also was asking for a 45-day extension of time for Reopen Beach Road to file a Reply Brief, and that period would enable him to hire new counsel.

Cosentino is representing himself in the appeal, she added.

On Sept. 23, the Court of Appeal granted Weber’s motion to withdraw from the case. Further, the court ordered that Reopen Beach Road “secure new counsel, who must immediately file a notice of appearance in this court.

Within thirty days, [Reopen Beach Road], through counsel, may serve a reply brief,” the court added in its decision.

Then, on Oct. 1, Cosentino filed a motion, seeking an extension of time to file his reply brief and to exceed the 15-page limit on that brief. As of Oct. 14, the court had not responded to that motion as of the deadline for this issue of Siesta Sand.

Cosentino’s first attorney in his lawsuit against Sarasota County over the May 2016 vacation of a 373-foot-long segment of North Beach Road was Ralf Brookes of Cape Coral. Brookes ended up withdrawing from the 12th Judicial Circuit Court case for personal reasons, Cosentino told the SNL. Cosentino hired two other attorneys at various times as the case proceeded in Circuit Court, firing one after alleging that that person had cognitive problems and letting the third one go because that attorney, Cosentino said, did not have sufficient time to get up to speed on all aspects of the case before the presiding Circuit Court judge, Andrea McHugh, wanted to conclude all the arguments.

Cosentino also has hired a variety of attorneys in the

Tampa area to handle his appeals, as Circuit Court rulings have gone against him.

In fact, his original attorney in this latest appeal lasted only two weeks before Weber replaced her, court records show.

2020 Holiday Lighting Contest

The Siesta Key Condominium Council will be holding its annual Holiday Lighting Contest in December.

Hilla Blatt, SKCC Director, encourages the condos to participate and try to brighten up our year. “We look forward to visiting and judging the Holiday Contest again,” she said. As in the past, the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is supplying the judging trolley.

“More details will be forthcoming; however, now is the time to plan for a great 2020 Holiday Lighting Display,” Blatt said.

Light up Siesta Key and Small Business Saturday

The holidays may look a little different this year, but it is more important than ever to support our local businesses. On November 28, the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce will celebrate Small Business Saturday, and kick off the holiday season.

“Even though the traditional Siesta Key Holiday Parade is canceled, we are still lighting up the Key with festive décor, a store-front and window decorating contest, and the tree lighting at the gazebo in Siesta Key Village,” said Ann Frescura, executive director of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce.

“Local businesses are encouraged to create their own holiday specials and activities, which will be promoted by the Siesta Key Chamber,” she added.

A visit from Santa is being planned for Sunday, December 20, from 3:00 – 5:00 pm at a South Village location. The Chamber of Commerce will announce more details soon.

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HOROSCOPE PAGE 33

VILLAGE MAP pgs 22 -23

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 35

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 24 GULF GATE SHOPS pg 35

941.312.0665

Flag Ceremony

By Randall Townsend In Honor of Captain Ralph Styles (a Decorated WWII Submarine Captain in the Pacific Theater), who began our Tribute Ceremonies about 30 years ago.

Each Sunset, our community comes together with new friends from around the world, now at Siesta Key at 10 Beach Road as we say: “Welcome to Patriots Pier at Sunset Point! We thank you for joining our nightly tribute to honor the sacrifices of our Military and service personnel and first responders in protecting our country and our freedoms! We are the land of the free because of the brave!”

This Month we honor our Fearless First Responders, as Mike Cosentino says, “They are the guys who run to the danger!”

This photo represents our Siesta Key Station 13 responders attending our 9/11 Ceremony as our honored guests at an AWESOMENESS ceremony you can watch on our Patriots Pier at Sunset Point Facebook page.

We also had the opportunity to honor these heroes on the first Sunday of October - The Memorial of the Fallen Firefighters Day - where we honor and thank these first responders for their service.

In 2019, 48 firefighters lost their lives doing their job and partial numbers for 2020 show about 67 more.

Share a wave at these responders every day and thank them for all they do.

Also, please join us at Patriots Pier every time you can.

Sandventure created this “exquisite” sculpture honoring essential workers at recent Tribute Ceremony.

Firefighters from Siesta Key Station 13 participate as honored guests at recent Tribute Ceremony.

Don’t Waste Your Island Time Crossing Bridges!

We are conveniently located just a few steps from Crescent Beach and minutes away from anywhere on the Key.

• Full Service Grocery • Party Trays • Boar’s Head Meat & Cheese • Domestic & Micro Beers • Fabulous Deli Sandwiches Made to Order! • Largest Wine Selection on Siesta Key • Farm Fresh Produce • Beach Supplies • Butcher Shop • Take Out Meals

We Deliver to Siesta Key!

941-312-0472 fax: 941-312-9588

www.crescentbeachgrocery.com

1211 Old Stickney Point Rd., Siesta Key, FL 34242 (corner of Stickney Pt. and Midnight Pass Rd.)

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Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2020

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Blooming This Month: Wild Coffee (Psychotria nervosa)

MARKET & GRILL

217 AVENIDA MADERA SIESTA KEY

941-552-8826

www.THESEAFOODJOINT.com

CATERING AVAILABLE • SEGWAY RENTALS • PADDLEBOARDS • SCOOTER CARS • GOLF CARTS • BIKES • SCOOTERS • BEACH GEAR Map B #34 5255 Ocean Blvd • Siesta Key Village www.robinhoodrentals.net

941-554-4242

OPEN DAILY 8 AM - 2 PM SAFELY SERVING INSIDE & OUTSIDE DINING IN THE HEART OF THE VILLAGE

349-2822

Wild Coffee is a Florida native plant shrub (Psychotria nervosa) that gets its name from the small, red fruits which birds love to eat the fruits when ripe.

The evergreen leaves are shiny, wrinkled, and very dark green. Clusters of small white blooms from the branch tips in the spring and the red fruits come in the summer.

If you have the room for small shrubs that grow about 4’ to 10’ tall. This shade tolerant and drought tolerant shrub is for your garden. The small red fruits are really very bitter so not for making coffee. They do look like small coffee beans.

Currently blooming in the Falling Waters and Welcome Gardens at the Sarasota Garden

ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Key Beach Resort & Spa.......... Map-A #38A ATM / BANKS PNC ATM.........................................Map-C #61 Sun Trust Bank & ATM..................... Map-E #4 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blase Café....................................... Map-A #38 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar........... Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s.........................................Map-B #33 My Village Pub......................... Map-C #53/54 Siesta Key Oyster Bar....................Map-B #45 The Beach Club............................... Map-D #22 The Cottage......................................Map-C #58 The Hub-Baja Grill......................... Map-D #59 COFFEE SHOPS Bean Coffeehouse......................... Map-D #62 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company......Map-B #31 DRUGSTORE Davidson Drugs............................ Map-D #65 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Beach Bazaar’s & Swin Shack..... Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear.............................. Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More..... Map-D #64 Foxy Lady Fashions...................... Map-A #40 Ganja Mon Vibes.............................. Map-D #9 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions.........Map-B #44 Island Boutique............................... Map-B #50 Island Style.......................................Map-C #53 Lilly Pulitzer.................................. Map-D #66 Sea Shanty........................................Map-C #24 Siesta T’s........................................... Map-B #30 The Sandal Factory......................... Map-B #46 GAS STATION Circle K Store..................................... Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Beach Bazaar.................................. Map-C #28 Gilligan’s Gift Store......................... Map-B #32 Island Trader....................................Map-C #51 Sea Pleasures & Treasures..............Map-C #29 Siesta Key Outfitters.....................Map-D #12

Barber Scott Reich

Formerly of the Village Barber

Gulf Gate Barbershop Making Gulf Gate look good since the ‘60’s Bringing over 70 years of life lessons and local knowledge to your haircut (trust us, we know alllll about what you did last summer).

It’s not just a haircut, it’s life. We know all about it.

Let’s laugh, have a beer, and talk nonsense….that’s free.

Haircut? That’s gonna cost you…$15, if we like you, $25 if you’re a P.I.T.A. “Best Local Barbers” 20 years in the running Kyle and Scott “to the second power”

6575 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231 941-809-9028 Walk-ins Welcome

HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ............ Map-D #10 Siesta Healing................................... Map-D #9 Siesta Key Fitness..........................Map-B #73 ICE CREAM/SWEETS Big Olaf Creamery...........................Map-C #52 Curly Cream Ice Cream................... Map-D #9 Local Chill Ice Cream................... Map-D #60 Made in Rome Organic Gelato......Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts.....................Map-C #24 Stefano Versace Gelato...................Map-C #50 SubZero Ice Cream/Yogurt.......... Map-D #16 The Fudge Factory..........................Map-A #36 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs............................ Map-D #65 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company......Map-B #31 JEWELRY Created Gems..................................Map-C #51 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers............. Map-D #9 LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club................. Map-D #70 Gilligan’s.........................................Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wine Bar..................... Map-C #61 Siesta Village Liquors.................. Map-C #26 The Beach Club............................... Map-D #22

Club. Located at 1131 Boulevard of the Arts, Sarasota, Florida.

Checkout the website www.

SarasotaGardenClub.org Submitted by Kay Weber, Botanical Gardens Chair, Sarasota Garden Club

www.siestasand.net

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27th State Media LLC

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ON HILLVIEW

White Ibis

Opens Daily 2pm

Eudocimus albus The ibis is one of the many long-legged wading birds you will see around Siesta Key’s beaches, mangrove islets, and interior wetland areas. This eye-catching juvenile ibis sports orangey pink legs and bill whereas a mature adult is known by its deeper reddish pink coloring. Underneath its dazzling white plumage, the ibis hides jetblack wingtips, typically visible only in flight. In contrast with the heron who coolly stalks its prey with laser like precision, the ibis takes a more casual approach to foraging. Ibises are content to stroll through the wetlands, in chatty groups, with a certain nonchalance. A long, curved bill probes the mud to snatch hidden worms, crayfish, and crabs. The ibis is both a sociable and territorial creature. Community foraging, flying and nesting habits contradict the fierce, even violent, rivalry among males to protect their nest, their mate, and their honor.

Pizza, Craft Beer & Spirits

A Siesta Key Favorite!

Opens Daily 4pm Live Music Every Weekend

Reopening Mid-Oct Stay Tuned New Menu & Events Coming Soon!

LET US CUSTOMIZE SHIRTS FOR YOUR NEXT EVENT!

WE’VE MOVED

a few doors down

Jan Baumgartner’s handmade notecards showcase Siesta Key natural scenic beauty and wildlife. Siesta Key Siesta Key notecards are available in two locations:

Map D #11

BLVD Beachwear 5239 Ocean Blvd 941-349-2583 Shelly’s Gift and Christmas Boutique 4420 S Tamiami Trail 941-260-8905 MAILING - SHIPPING US Post Office................................. Map-D #65

WHAT BETTER WAY TO START YOUR DAY IN PARADISE!

MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store..................................... Map-E #6 Morton’s Siesta Market................ Map-C #25

• Organic and Fair Trade Coffees & Teas • Cold Pressed Coffee • Organic Smoothies • Light Lunch (Sandwiches) • Breakfast Sandwiches, Bagels & Lox • Homemade Pastries

MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage................ Map-B #35 The Spa at Calle Minorga............... Map-E #74 MEDICAL - DENTAL Sarasota Medical Center................ Map-D #63 Siesta Dental..................................... Map-B #49 Siesta Key Physical Therapy......... Map-D #20 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce................Map-D #67 Prime Audio Video........................... Map-E #1 Roberti Enterprises.........................Map-A #39 Village Arcade..................................Map-C #53 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Attorney Fleming.............................. Map-E #1 Edward Jones Investments.......... Map-D #68 Smith Architects.................................Map-E 74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Amy Robinson RE............................. Map-E #1 Coldwell Banker Realty................. Map-D #20 EXP Realty.........................................Map-E #4 Judith Guzzi & Assoc..................... Map-E #74 Keller Williams Real Estate............Map-D #11 Michael Saunders Realty..............Map-E #72 ReMax Alliance Group................ Map-C #29 RentSiestaKey.com........................... Map-D #9 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate.....Map-A #39 Siesta Key Rental Prop.................. Map-D #10 The Ringling Beach House Rentals...Map-D #9 Tropical Sands Accommodations......Map-D #67

48 47 46

RESTAURANTS / CAFÉS Another Broken Egg..............Map-C #54 & 55 Blasé Café....................................... Map-A #38 Bonjour French Cafe.......................Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano............................... Map-D #71 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar........... Map-B #42-43 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar.............. Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante............ Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.......Map-B #33 Island House Bar & Grill............. Map-D #69 Lobster Pot...................................... Map-C #23 Mojo Risin’ Coffee Company......Map-B #31 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub............... Map-E #2 PI Pizza & Craft Beer..................... Map-A#37 Ripfire Pizza..................................... Map-B #47 Siesta Key Oyster Bar....................Map-B #45 Solorzano Bros. Pizzeria.............. Map-D #15 Subway Sandwiches....................... Map-B #30 Summer House................................Map-C #57 Sun Garden Café............................ Map-D #19 The Cottage......................................Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill........................Map-C #59 The Seafood Joint.......................... Map-D #15 The Star Thai Sushi............... Map-D #17 & 18 Village Café.................................... Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY Sassy Hair Salon............................ Map-A #40 Siesta Key Nails & Spa..................Map-D #9 Shaman Sanctuary Salon................. Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida........................................Map-C #29 Robin Hood Rentals......................Map-B #34

941-260-6400

Map D #62

Coffee Shop • Tea Room • 5138 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key Village

Gizeh EVA Gizeh EVA Gizeh Silver Arizona EVA

Arizona EVA

Great For the Beach or the Pool! $ 95

44

Map D #64

Birkenstock & More Bringing you quality and comfort for more than 40 years!

5128 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Village

941-346-7425 www.rickscomfortshoes.com

Gift Certificates Available

24

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2020

BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club.......................................... C-3 #13 Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 COFFEE SHOPS Coffee Garden................................... B-3 #8 DELIS / BAKERIES Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 Nutritious You......................................... C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery......B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Fin Island Co.............................................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion......................................B-3 #1 Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14 Key Casual Fashions............................... D-3 #17

941.312.0665

CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX

Things You Like....................................... C-3 #14 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Capt. Curt’s Souvenirs.............................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Shells & Gifts................. C-3 #14 Sunshine Sand Hidden Treasures...... D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Sanctuary Siesta Key............................... A-5 #12 Siesta Key Salon & Spa........................... D-3 #17 The Key Spa & Salon.............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus ........................................B-3 #8 Siesta Creamery....................................... C-3 #14 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 LIQUOR STORES Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1

Home of the Orange Squeeze

Crescent Club...........................................B-3 #13 Siesta Spirits............................................. C-3 #17 MAILING & SHIPPING Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 US Post Office Sub Station..................... C-3 #14 MARKETS 7-11 Store.................................................. C-3 #16 Big Water Fish Market.......................... C-3 #17 Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Beckmann Properties.............................. C-2 #15 Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent............................................ C-3 #14 Waterside Realty.................................... C-3 #17 RESTAURANTS / CAFES Big Water Fish Market................................C-3 #17 Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill...............A-5 #12

www.siestasand.net

Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7 City Pizza Italian Restaurant................. D-3 #17 Clayton’s Siesta Grille...............................B-3 #9 Daiquiri Deck.................................................A-3 #2 Spear Fish Grill..............................................A-4 #5 Toasted Mango Cafe....................................C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 FIN Island Co. ........................................... A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta........................................... A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak ........................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina.................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Key Jetski ........................................ A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club...................... A-5 #12

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Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.

Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.

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Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.

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Coconuts Fashion MAP 1215 Old Stickney Point Rd. B-3 #1&8

Crescent Beach Grocery 1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd.

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Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.

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NOVEMBER 2020

Snapshots of Island Visitors

Beach Roller” Longboat Key resident, John Langwig demonstrating expert skating skills on the smooth walkway along the Siesta Beach parking lot. He moved here 3 years ago from Boston to pursue economic opportunities as well as enjoy the incredible weather. Langwig related a highlight of his 45 years of roller skating saying, “In 1981, when I was in my mid-20s, I quit my job and loaded all of my tools into my van and drove to and lived on Venice Beach, California as an itinerant roller skater for a couple years.”

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Photos by Trebor Britt

“Family Volleyball” Brothers, Zach (15) and Dylen Oster (17) nephew, Ben Morris (15), and dad, Tim Oster all of the Alton, IL area enjoying their first time on Siesta Beach. Tim’s visited his father in Ruskin many times, but never visited the Key’s incredible beach. They will top off their vacation with a chartered fishing trip.

“Buckets of Fun” Aubriella (4) of Lexington, KY has spent more than an hour doing some serious sand work along the Gulf of Mexico shoreline. Siesta Beach has become an annual destination spot for her family.

“Serving Near the Beach” Sarasota residents, Meredith Wilk (20) and Lainee Spurgin (20) are servers at the Spearfish Siesta Grill on Siesta Key. Originally from North Jersey and Colorado, they were thankful to keep their jobs through the pandemic and enjoy boating and the beach nearly every day.

“Vacation Smooch” Recently married, Steve Sandhoff and Sue Andrews of Athens, GA enjoying the quaint, intimate dinning at the Spearfish Siesta Grill on Siesta Key. They plan to move to the Port Charlotte area soon.

Andrews commented, “Siesta Beach is the prettiest beach in the whole world.”

27th State Media LLC

“Stress Free” Second year visitor, Autumn Hopkins of Kentucky enjoying the stress free atmosphere and lifestyle of incredible Siesta Beach. She works as a night auditor, but is attending school to become a Paralegal. While here, she devours as much fresh seafood as possible and a highlight this year was discovering O’Learys at Bayfront Park.

“Picnic Pair” Long time Sarasota resident, Darla Hancock and former resident, Bonnie Stupner of North Carolina relaxing on one of the picnic tables available to families who visit Siesta Beach. Hancock moved to Sarasota in 1995 and Stupner lived here in the 70’s. Both are now enjoying retirement.

“Girls Just Wanna Have Fun” Sarasota residents, (L to R back row to front row) Marie Mohms, Anita Smith, Sharon Napora, Diane Kaye, Lori Anderson, Joanne Smith, and Carol Lewis cutting loose on fabulous Siesta Beach. Sharon related an unusual story that a fish jumped into and then out of the top of her bathing suit a day earlier. A blessed group as no one had or knew of anyone who contracted the coronavirus.

“Beach Acrobatics” Sasha Fields (9) of Atlanta demonstrating the fruit of 3 years of gymnastics on the Siesta Beach shoreline. Her favorite maneuver is a back bend kick-over. When asked what she thought the most important element of a strong marriage was, she answered, “Love.”

“Good Sports” Incarnation Catholic School players bump elbows after being defeated in a flag football game at Glebe Park on Siesta Key. Win or lose these young players demonstrate good sportsmanship at the end of every game. Boys from grades 5th-8th make-up 10 teams who play 8-10 games each season.

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Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2020

941.312.0665

www.siestasand.net

Owners of Siesta Key Beach Resort Hotel and Suites files application to redevelop property

By Rachel Hackney Brown SarasotaNewsLeader.com The owners of the Siesta be limited by Future Key Beach Resort and Suites, Land Use Policy located at 5311 Ocean Blvd.

2.9.1 in the county’s in Siesta Village, want Comprehensive to demolish the existing Plan, which 55-room facility and restricts increase redevelop it into a 170-room in residential complex, as explained in a density on the preliminary application to unincorporated Sarasota County staff. barrier islands.

No part of the new hotel Therefore, he added, would exceed the allowable the owners want to 35 feet in height, the amend that policy to documents say. However, allow lands zoned the application indicates CG/SKOD “with an that two levels of parking existing Transient would be constructed Accommodation below the habitable spaces, use (resort/hotel/ which would result in motel) and with the buildings standing 40+ units before taller than 35 feet. That March 13, 1989, and is allowed under county still in operation regulations, as the Federal … as of the date …

Emergency Management this amendment Image is part of the Development Concept Plan (DCP) for the guest room levels on 215 Calle Miramar.

Agency (FEMA) requires takes effect,” to new habitable areas in flood be redeveloped zones — such as those on into a new resort/ would be right down the street The existing hotel was Siesta Key — to be elevated. hotel/motel that from the SKRS redevelopment. constructed in 1955 and Recent projects have put the exceeds “the density and The other, planned for several then remodeled in 1995, ground floor elevation at intensity restrictions of zoning years by Gary Kompothecras Lin continued. “It is a nonapproximately 18 feet. regulations existing as of that — a Siesta resident known conforming use of the None of the hotel rooms date ...” widely for his 1-800-ASK-GARY property,” he added, referring would have kitchens, the Lin has proposed a medical and legal referral to the zoning restrictions in documents note. companion amendment service — would include 120 CG/SKOD. Thus, a voluntary Filed on Aug. 24 with to the county’s Unified rooms in a complex about 83 teardown of the complex, he the county’s Planning and Development Code (UDC), feet tall on Old Stickney Point explained, would lead to loss of Development Services which combines all the Road. the 55-unit density.

Department, the preliminary county’s land-development The SKRS construction Yet, he pointed out, the application says the proposal and zoning regulations. That encompasses 1.0475 acres, the owners should be able to encompasses not only the calls for language similar to the preliminary application says. redevelop the property without Ocean Boulevard property proposed change to the Future The redeveloped resort would density limits because of their but also a parcel located at 215 Land Use policy, and it would have a total of 189 parking investment in the land.

Calle Miramar. The materials apply countywide, he wrote. spaces, the documents add.

This year, the Sarasota were submitted by Weiqi Lin, a The two other Siesta Key Five meeting rooms would be County Property Appraiser’s former member of the county’s hotel project applications included in the new section of Office put the total market Environmental Permitting also seek modifications to the the hotel on Ocean Boulevard, value of the 5311 Ocean Blvd.

Division, on behalf of SKRS UDC and Future Land Use according to the proposed property at $1,126,500. For the LLC, which formally owns the Policy 2.9.1. The application Development Concept Plan. parcel and buildings at 215 parcels. for the 170-room hotel near In the preliminary Calle Miramar, the market According to the Florida Siesta Key Beach Resort calls application, Lin explained that value this year is $2,753,500.

Division of Corporations, Siesta for eliminating the density both the Calle Miramar and SKRS LLC paid $9,740,000 for resident Michael Holderness is requirement for transient Ocean Boulevard parcels are the two parcels in May 2017, the manager of SKRS LLC. accommodations in the future zoned Commercial General the Property Appraiser’s Office This is the third hotel project land use policy. Every hotel (CG) within the Siesta Key records show. which has had its preliminary room without a kitchen is Overlay Zoning District application provided to county counted as half a dwelling unit, The density considerations (SKOD). They are listed as one staff since spring. One of those, to determine the number of Lin also pointed out in the commercial property at 5311 also a 170-room complex but preliminary application that the units that can be built on the Ocean Blvd., he pointed out. standing more than 80 feet tall, acreage available. proposed redevelopment would

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Kompothecras’ proposal seeks to amend the policy to allow each hotel room without a kitchen to count as onequarter of a dwelling unit.

However, it would apply only to what Kompothecras refers to as the “South Bridge Area,” encompassing the commercial district south of the Stickney Point Road drawbridge.

Among other facets of the redevelopment of the SKRS property, Lin noted, “The owners are community activists, who own homes on Siesta Key and natives who have loved and protected our waters since a child. This proposal is … a community and environmentally friendly proposal that will help preserve the community and neighborhood values by not seeking a height increase above 35 feet allowed through a Special Exception; and by preserving the land use patterns on Siesta Key …”

“Today, the existing hotel is near the end of its economic life and has functional obsolescence,” Lin added.

Members of the community would prefer it be redeveloped into “a modern new resort hotel,” he continued.

On Sept. 3, the members of the county’s Development Review Committee, who represent the departments and divisions involved in land development, reviewed the SKRS preliminary application.

A Historical Resources staff member pointed out that the parcel at 215 Calle Miramar “has four historic structures dating to 1948 [and possibly earlier], 1954, 1961, and 1972.

The earliest appears potentially significant under [county regulations].” Therefore, a Historic Cultural Resource Assessment Survey will be required, the staff member added.

SK Coalition opposing hotel development increases

In a late September update, the leaders of the SK Coalition reported that their organization has grown to include representatives of a dozen homeowner associations. In midSeptember, the figure was 10.

The Coalition was established in response to the announcement this summer of a proposal for a new 170-room hotel standing close to 90 feet in height on four parcels between Beach Road and Calle Miramar, just down the street from the Siesta Key Resort Hotel and Suites.

The Sept. 29 news release said the Coalition is collectively representing about 8,500 households on the Key, which is better than a 10-fold jump from its mid-September count of approximately 800.

As the group points out in that release, the plans for the hotel include “a 223-space parking garage, a restaurant, and a rooftop pool and bar, all of which will add to congestion and noise.”

In their preliminary application to Sarasota County staff, the developers also announced that they would seek an amendment to the county’s Comprehensive Plan that would eliminate any density considerations for transient accommodations on the county’s unincorporated barrier islands.

Leaders of the SK Coalition — which includes the Siesta Key Association (SKA) and the Siesta Key Condominium Council — have been adamant that they do not oppose development on Siesta, as long as that development “is consistent with the existing zoning regulations.”

Anyone wishing to contact the Coalition may send an email to SKCoalition@gmail.com.

Additionally, the group has created a webpage on the SKA’s website, so it can post updates and links to articles about its initiative: https://siestakeyassociation.com/ projects/sk-coalition/.

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

Hotel Projects resident and businessman Dr. Gary Kompothecras. Better known as “Dr. Gary,” he is the property owner, developer, and founder of 1-800-Ask-Gary.

According to his representative Jim Ley, the group “submitted our pre-application package and we received feedback from the various staff disciplines.” This month, he said, they plan to “file for the Special Exceptions required by the County” and will then begin to hold required Community Meetings.

Discussing the hotel’s future clientele, Ley reported that “the owner has initiated a dialogue with Marriott. He is intending to franchise the hotel under one of their Collections line of flags.” Lay noted that both “The Art Ovation and the Sarasota Modern downtown are hotels operated under this Marriott brand category.”

Although both hotel development projects are in the early stages and possibly years away from completion,

27th State Media LLC

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Continued from page 1

Big G’s Oyster Happy Hour from 3-6 Every day 1/2 Priced House Oysters Rendering of street view of the proposed Siesta Key Resort on Old Stickney Point Road and Peacock Road.

The structure, he advised, is designed to meet FEMA requirements. “The proposed hotel will be a FEMA compliant structure that can set the standard for safety on a barrier island. Not many if any structures that house transient

Rendering of the front view of the proposed Hotel Siesta Key

issues pertaining to land use, transportation, density, scale, as well as tourism and business development are being raised.

Both hotel proposals seek significant zoning changes to the Sarasota County Future Land Use Policy in the County’s Comprehensive Plan.

During the Siesta Key Association’s October meeting, Siesta Key resident and real estate developer, Mark Spiegel addressed the group by video from Atlanta and expressed his concerns about the height, size of the structure and other issues. In late September, Spiegel released a press release on behalf of the Siesta Key Coalition stating that the group “does not oppose development on Siesta Key, if it is consistent with existing zoning regulations.” He wrote that the development would harm property owners and reduce property values due to hotel visitors.

When reached by the Siesta Sand for comment on Spiegel’s presentation and issues voiced by the Coalition, Hotel Siesta Key developer Anderson told the Siesta Sand that “we have been extremely methodical in the course of the project. This is a commercial piece of land, not a residential property. We have been working on this project for 11 years and would not have gone this far if we didn’t have support.”

When asked to discuss the issue of height, Anderson said that the issue is complex.

NOVEMBER 2020

guests stand in compliance with current FEMA code,” said the developer. “The sight is contiguous. We have to build to the worst case scenario. With one-third of the property in the FEMA compliant category,” he explained, “this is a high wind area, requiring higher height. Due to wind velocity and proximity to the coast, the building has to be higher.

The first habitable floor has to has to be 14-18 feet above grade, with grade being 5 feet.

Therefore, we need to reach a 24 foot level for living space.

We cannot have anyone living on any floor until we reach the 24 foot level.” He continued, stating that when complete, “the building will be about 82 feet and within code that is 85 feet.”

Discussing the “As of Right” issue, Anderson said that ”As of Right development on the same contiguous site will still yield a structure with height in excess of 50. This,” he stated, “is in accordance with FEMA guidelines that run with the “subject” site itself. As of right we can build up to 58 feet.”

Responding to the Coalition’s concerns about traffic and congestion, Anderson said that “we looked at many alternatives for the property. Neighbors told us that they do not want a convenience store or a party deck. Talking to business owners and residents we determined that a beautiful hotel would enhance the area. This is an upscale hotel,” he noted. “The project was very specifically

planned to compliment and not conflict with other businesses, including condominium rentals, retail shops, restaurants and bars. Hotel guests,” he said, “will come for a 2-3 night stay.

They will park and walk to the village or beach. We are not in competition with condominiums or smaller hotels.” Citing strong support from barrier island families, mainland residents, tourism groups and businesses, Anderson cited the “folks in Lakewood Ranch who have expressed strong interest in having this hotel as a weekend getaway with all of the benefits of Siesta Beach / Village,” as an example.

The absence of up-scale hotel accommodations on Siesta Key has been an on-going topic of discussion among tourism officials and business owners for many years. Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Board Chairman Mason Tush, III, of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, said that the issue is under discussion and as of mid-October, the Chamber had not made a public stand. Visit Sarasota County President Virginia Haley told the Siesta Sand that “ I would say in general that there has always been a demand from visitors and international tour operators for a full service hotel on Siesta.” She noted that the Board does not take positions on specific proposals.

When County Commission passed a zoning change in 2018 that made it possible for Dr. Gary to proceed with plans to build a hotel on Stickney Point Road and Midnight Pass, the decision led to mixed reactions among residents and local businesses. As that project begins to move ahead beyond its current “entitlement phase,”Ley said that “we hope to break ground in 2022, and are finalizing the site plans necessary for the special exception request.” After completing the pre-application appearance before the County Development Review Committee and following completion of the site plan, they too will begin Community Meetings. Looking ahead, Ley believes that the creation of the 120-room South Village hotel will appeal to European travelers and tour groups. “Tour bookers,” he said, “have long expressed a concern that the lack of a flagged hotel on Siesta Key has been a limiting factor in organizing charter bookings into Sarasota Bradenton International Airport.

This will be one of only two hotels on the Key.”

Siesta Key Oyster Bar, or “SKOB” as the locals call it, is the hangout with the laid-back, beachy atmosphere that will get you right into the Island Spirit.

One of the things that set SKOB apart from the other restaurants in Siesta Key Village is that we have some of the best food on the Key.

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Brownie lovers have a new local source for delicious, homemade brownies. Lula’s Brownies, owned and operated by Marilou Berrios, is a business that bakes original brownies with only one flavor deliciousness.

The idea to turn her homemade treats into a business was a family affair. “The idea of selling our brownies was first mentioned one night while having dinner,” said Marilou. My three sons (17, 14 and 12) were saying how much all their friends loved my brownies. Every time they had a birthday, I would bake a batch of brownies and their friends would devour them.”

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Lula’s Brownies are made daily to guarantee freshness.

“It was at that point that my boys started telling me, mom, we need to sell these brownies. The boys all believed it would a great business!

It wasn’t long before I caved to the pressure and Lula’s Brownies was born!”

Lula’s Brownies was registered in November 2019. Initially, Lula’s sold brownies to family and friends. However, by January 2020, Lula’s Brownies was the sponsored dessert for 500 women attending the Voice + Visibility Women’s Summit luncheon.

“This event was an exciting introduction to our business,” said Marilou. “We created 500 minibrownie bags; one for each guest.

The production line became a family affair. The brownies were a big hit and the luncheon was a great success.”

Lula’s Brownies is getting rave reviews from customers, too.

Here is a sample of the reviews: “Amazing customer service,” said Amy from Dallas. “The best brownies ever,” said VG from Miami. “I wish more places had customer service and treats this good,” said Britney from Rochester.

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The COVID pandemic put the brakes on Lula’s Brownies, like on many other small businesses..

However, business has started to return.

Lula’s Brownie Sticks are getting rave reviews from customers.

“We are currently participating in a cross-marketing strategy with a renowned real estate law firm. The real estate firm gives clients custom brownie gift bags that we designed for them,” said Marilou. “We can do that for your business, too. Simply give us your logo and we can make them your own.”

Lula’s Brownies are baked fresh every morning. They come in six different packages: large brownie package (25 brownies) for $25, medium brownie package (15 brownies) for $15, small brownie package (8 brownies) for $8, mini brownie package (2 brownie bites) for $4, single 4 x 4 brownie bag for $5, brownie sticks (4 crispy brownie edges) for $5.

Lula’s offers a professional packaging and uses eco-friendly materials.

Lula’s Brownies can also make brownie trays for your next special event and include personalized messages upon request.

You can order Lula’s Brownies either online at lulasbrownies.com or by phone at 787-308-0609. Local delivery is available for a nominal charge.

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Sheriff’s Report 9/20 Possession of Marijuana An officer was on patrol when he began talking to a juvenile who stated that there was someone sleeping in the back of their truck. When the officer asked the sleeping occupant if he was intoxicated, he denied it. Upon conducting a search, the officer found a container of what the defendant admitted was a concentrated marijuana substance. The defendant’s mother was contacted and the defendant was arrested.

9/22 Burglary The victim stated that she was using her laptop in her business on the morning of the incident, then returned after a lunch break to find the laptop not working properly. After consulting an IT person, it was determined that the hard drive had been taken out of the back of the victim’s laptop. She stated that she had locked the front door, and the door to the bathroom that is shared with the business next door. There is also a back door and keypad to the business, however the victim does not know the code.

There were no signs of forced entry and no security cameras, so the laptop was taken to be processed for evidence.

10/1 Burglary The victim is remodeling the incident location, and stated that he left the site mid-afternoon on October 1st.

The next morning when he returned, several items, which he had recently purchased but not installed, were missing. He found that the front door was

unlocked and believed it had been unlocked the entire night.

No residents saw anything unusual that night and no fingerprints were found on the door. There are no suspects at this time.

10/2 Burglary The victim stated that his security footage showed two male suspects board his docked boat. They began fishing off the boat for approximately two hours, and then stole a fishing rod and tackle box from the port side gunnel and live bait well. The footage is being reviewed by a deputy and further investigation will be conducted.

10/04 Political Theft The complainant called to report a political sign that was stolen from his property. There are no known suspects at this time.

10/6 Battery The victim was tripped and thrown to the ground outside a Siesta Key Village bar by an unknown subject. The victim sustained multiple injuries, but refused medical treatment.

A bartender at the bar gave a description of the unknown subject and the direction in which he fled, but there was no success in finding him.

The victim later stated that he was aware of the name of the subject and the model of the car he drove. He also said that he had left his suitcase in the subject’s vehicle after being granted permission to do so as a courtesy. Low-quality security footage confirmed this story

Police Report USA Wichita Falls police received a rather unique call Friday morning involving a woman drinking wine in a Walmart parking lot.

Employees requested officers to ban a woman from the local Walmart store after she reportedly had been drinking

wine from a Pringles can for several hours while riding on an electric cart.

Officers responded to a food fight on board a fishing vessel, where they found that the captain and another man had thrown mashed potatoes, corn dogs and

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but could not clearly identify the defendant. The victim was left in the care of his wife and a follow up will be conducted for any further information leading to the subject.

10/7 Theft

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jalapenos at the cook’s stateroom door. The captain, who denied involvement until reminded by officers that his shoes were covered with food similar to that found in the hallway, was advised to apologize and treat his crew with more respect.

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A plaque was reported missing from a park bench located inside Christopher Wheeler Park. The plaque had been secured to the bench with four screws that are still intact on the bench. The location was searched and the plaque was not found. The plaque read: “Smiling, he built communities, homes. True to his family.

Always embracing kindness.

An angel gracing our lives. Jim “Dawe” Halbert.” There are no suspects at this time.

An officer arrived at the location after a reported disturbance and talked with a guest who claimed that she and a friend had gotten into a verbal argument that led to a physical altercation. The friend confirmed the story but was inconsistent with the sequence in which the events occurred.

Both individuals had minor injuries and refused further medical attention. As they were both under the influence of alcohol, the officer could not determine who began the physical violence. Waivers of prosecution were signed by both parties, and one of them also agreed to write a witness statement. The complainant did not want either individual to trespass, but wished to have them both removed from the property.

27th State Media LLC

CRAFT BEERS Get That Old Florida Flavor!

CAPTAIN CURT’S CAPTAIn

WORLD FAMOUS CLAM CHOWDER 1200 Old Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key FL 34242

941-349-3885

www.themariner.com

www.themariner.com

Wednesday - Saturday

NOW OPEN FOR BREAKFAST 8 AM - 11 AM LUNCH & DINNER SERVED 11 AM - 9 PM

30

Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2020

Florida Fish of Siesta Key

Red Snapper

941.312.0665

Fishing Report

Water World Fishing Report

Captain Brian Boehm Enjoy a fishing charter with CB’s and Captain Brian.

Capt. Rick Grassett, Sarasota CB’s Saltwater Outfitters (941) 923-7799 (office)

Florida Puffer Yellowtail

Anglers fishing Sarasota Bay with me, out of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters on Siesta Key, had Florida some action with trout, blues, Puffer tripletail and more on flies and DOA Lures, recently. Spin fishing Sailfish anglers caught and released trout, Sailfish blues and jacks on CAL jigs with a variety of tails and DOA Deadly Spanish Mackerel Combos while fly anglers scored with a Clouser fly fished on a sink tip fly line on several trips recently.

Dohlpin With stone crab traps in the water,

www.siestasand.net

variety of species including trout, blues and Spanish mackerel.

Shallow water action for reds and snook should turn on as the water cools. Our natural resources are under constant pressure from red tides fueled by industrial, agricultural and residential runoff, freezes, increasing fishing pressure and habitat loss and degradation, please limit your kill, don’t kill your limit!

See you on the water!

Captain Brian Boehm Quiet Waters Fishing Guide at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Sarasota, FL 34242 941-400-6218 https://www.quietwatersfishing.com

“Mahi-Mahi”

Mangrove Snapper Scoolmaster Lane Snapper Scamp Black Mullet Snook Bride & Groom: Nicole & James Testa-Johnson getting ready to celebrate out on the water.

Red Drum “Redfish”

Tarpon Jake Ciesielczk, from AZ, with a bluefish caught and released on a Clouser fly while fishing Sarasota Bay. Baracuda

Gulf Flounder

Florida Pompano Jack Crevalle

AmberJack

Spotted Sea Trout

Cobia Denny Clohisy, from CA, with a trout caught and released on a CAL jig with a shad tail while fishing Sarasota Bay.

Black Drum

Catfish

King King Mackerel Mackerel Blue Marlin

Black Grouper

Sheesphead

tripletail is starting to show up.

Spin fishing anglers also caught and released a couple of small tripletails in the coastal gulf on DOA Shrimp.

Fish the coastal gulf for false albacore (little tunny), Spanish mackerel and tripletail when conditions are good. Fishing deep grass flats of Sarasota Bay is also a good choice for action with a

Mighty Mason from Dillsburg, Pennsylvania caught this beautiful trout in Sarasota Bay!

Tight Lines, Capt. Rick Grassett FFI Certified Fly Casting Instructor Orvis-Endorsed Fly Fishing Guide at CB’s Saltwater Outfitters Orvis Outfitter of the Year-2011 Snook Fin-Addict Guide Service, Inc. www.snookfin-addict.com and www. flyfishingflorida.us E-mail snookfin@aol.com (941) 923-7799 (office)

Let’s go sailing, KATHLEEN D Sailing Catamarans, serving Siesta Key from 3 locations: Downtown Sarasota, Longboat Key, and Anna Maria Island. If you would like to experience being on the water viewing Dolphin Watches, Sunset Sails, Snorkeling and Shelling call us at 941-870-4349 or go to our web site for detailed information www.kathleend.net USCG Certified for 20 passengers.

Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans

Brendan Collins visiting from Boston, MA gives a big thumbs up on his Pompano catch at the entrance to Big Pass.

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

Captain Jim Klopfer’s Fishing Forecast November 2020 Adventure Charters

941-371-1390 November offers Siesta Key anglers diverse opportunities.

A wide variety of species are available this month, and multiple techniques will be successful. The key is adapting to the conditions; weather will become a factor at times. Water temperatures will be falling as it cools off and the days become shorter, and this will trigger fish to feed.

Both Big Pass and New Pass will be productive spots to fish this month. Pompano will be targeted by many anglers, along with Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and ladyfish. Drifting with the tide and bouncing a

area. Successful anglers will fish quickly until the fish are located.

Redfish schools will be thinning out in the shallow water, but there will still be plenty of fish in the pot holes, along mangrove shorelines, under docks, and around oyster bars. Rapala plugs, weedless gold spoons, and Bass Assassin Elite Shiners on a Pro Elite jig head are all excellent choices for probing the shallow flats. These same lures will also catch snook, along with speckled trout and jack crevelle.

Snook will be migrating

Local angler Doc Dojutrek with a nice Siesta Key false albacore.

jig off the bottom is a proven technique to catch pompano and other species. Yellow, white, pink, and chartreuse pompano jigs work very well in deep, swift water. These jigs are small and compact, allowing them to sink quickly.

These same jigs are effective in shallow water and on bars when cast out and retrieved back to the boat using short hops. Spoons and Rapala plugs are very effective when breaking fish are seen working in the passes.

Pompano will also be taken on the deep grass flats, as will speckled trout, bluefish, mackerel, jack crevalle and other species. Soft plastics such as the Bass Assassin Sea Shad baits on a ¼ ounce jig head are extremely productive and a lot of fun to fish. A live shrimp either free lined or fished under a cork is the top choice for anglers who prefer live bait. Fish will begin moving south from the passes to the flats between Stickney Pt. and Blackburn Pt. and will be scattered over a large

through these areas on their way to their winter haunts and will be feeding heavily. Points, bars, and docks with current are prime ambush spots for game fish. Large live shrimp are deadly when fished under docks, although it will not allow anglers to cover as much water. Night fishing under lighted docks and bridges will also produce a lot of snook this month.

King mackerel, Spanish mackerel, false albacore, cobia, and sharks will bend rods and test drags in the inshore Gulf of Mexico, provided the severe fronts stay away. Point of Rocks on Siesta Key is a prime fall spot to either sight cast to breaking fish or troll plugs and spoons. Live bait will also produce, especially once fish are located. Live blue runners and threadfins slow trolled on a “stinger” rig will catch some very nice kings along with sharks. Drifting a live shrimp or small bait fish will catch plenty of Spanish and albies.

NOVEMBER 2020

27th State Media LLC

31

Notes from the Island Fishmonger Meet the octopus, one of the most fascinating creatures of the sea Octopuses are ocean creatures that are most famous for having eight arms, 2 heads, 3 hearts and blue blood. They squirt ink to deter predators; and being boneless, they can squeeze into or out of tight spaces. You can find them in the most improbable places, wedged under a rock, crab traps, crammed into ocean liter like a beer bottle or even an old tire.

The Octopuses are truly the most fascinating creatures in the sea and they are as smart as a house cat, believe it or not.

Their camouflage is extraordinary, often

shellfish for dinner with the other arm.

Now that I have your attention, here is an octopus joke: How did the octopus beat a shark in a fight? The octopus was well armed. Ha. The octopus are carnivores which means they only eat meat. Meals usually include clams, shrimp, lobster, fish, baby sharks, and even the occasional bird. They typically drop down on their pray, envelop it with their arms and pull the animal into their mouth.

Their choice of meals is one of the reasons I like to eat octopus. Ever hear the saying, “you are what you eat?” Biting into a grilled or steamed octopus’ leg is like combining a lobster, shrimp and clam into a salty, tender seafood delicacy.

Oddly, people are always surprised to learn we have octopi here on the Gulf Coast. In fact, the one surefire way to surprise someone when I talk about octopus is to tell them the octopi is usually caught locally by spearfisherman or crabbers.

Sometimes, its imported from Spain or Japan as the Pacific Ocean does produce a lot more octopus than the Gulf of Mexico. The notion that you might encounter an octopus off the Siesta Key beaches is impossible for some to imagine. However, stone crab fisherman encounters an octopus on routinely on deep-sea fishing trips. Both local and imported octopus are available at the original Big Water Fish Market. The octopus ceviche pictured below is a must try. It is salty, Delectable octopus ceviche dish at Big Water Fish Market. sweet and spicy. You can also purchase local octopus at blending so perfectly with their surroundings Big Water Fish Market on Siesta Key. Don’t be that the only thing that gives them away is the intimidated by cooking octopus for yourself. All sight of a row of suckers on a coiled tentacle. you do is steam your octopus for 30 minutes for Some people call their appendages tentacles, tender succulent meat. but that is incorrect as they are their arms. Most Live well...Eat fish octopus have suction cups on the bottom of each Scott Dolan arm. The arms seem to have a mind of their Big Water Fish Market own. In fact, two-thirds of an octopus neurons www.BigWaterFishMarket.com are in its arms rather than its head. That means 6641 Midnight Pass Road, Siesta Key that an Octopus can focus on exploring a cave for food with one arm while cracking open a

November 2020 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay

November 2020

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date

Day

1

Su

2 3

High Tide

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset

7:23a

0.1

6:34p

1.2

6:42a

5:46p

6:40p

7:28a

7:58a

0.0

6:48p

1.3

6:42a

5:45p

7:17p

8:22a

8:37a -0.1

7:04p

1.3

6:43a

5:45p

7:59p

9:17a

7:19p

1.3

6:44a

5:44p

8:45p

10:12a

0.0

6:45a

5:43p

9:37p

11:06a

0.0

6:45a

5:43p

10:34p

11:58a

12:20p

0.1

6:46a

5:42p

11:33p

12:47p

1.6

1:26p

0.1

6:47a

5:41p

8:54p

1.6

1:09a

1.4

2:27p

0.2

6:48a

5:41p

12:35a

2:13p

1.8

9:15p

1.7

2:38a

1.1

3:19p

0.3

6:48a

5:40p

1:38a

2:52p

1.8

9:37p

1.8

3:42a

0.7

4:04p

0.5

6:49a

5:40p

2:43a

3:29p

10:14a

1.8

10:00p

2.0

4:36a

0.4

4:43p

0.6

6:50a

5:39p

3:48a

4:07p

Fr

11:19a

1.8

10:26p

2.2

5:26a

0.1

5:16p

0.8

6:51a

5:39p

4:55a

4:47p

14

Sa

12:20p

1.7

10:54p

2.4

6:15a -0.2

5:44p

1.0

6:51a

5:38p

6:03a

5:29p

15

Su

1:22p

1.6

11:25p

2.5

7:04a -0.4

6:07p

1.2

6:52a

5:38p

7:14a

6:16p

16

Mo

2:29p

1.5

11:59p

2.5

7:54a -0.5

6:26p

1.3

6:53a

5:38p

8:24a

7:08p

6:38p

1.3

8:06p

12:23a

2.2

Mo

2:09p

1.6

Tu

12:09a

4

We

5 6

High Tide

Low Tide

1:28p

1.6

2.4

2:58p

1.5

12:40a

2.4

4:02p

1.4

9:21a -0.1

Th

1:16a

2.4

10:13a

Fr

1:58a

2.3

11:13a

7

Sa

2:53a

2.2

8

Su

4:10a

2.0

8:35p

9

Mo

5:55a

1.9

10

Tu

7:39a

11

We

9:03a

12

Th

13

Low Tide

1:31p

17

Tu

3:49p

1.4

8:46a -0.6

6:54a

5:37p

9:32a

18

We

12:37a

2.5

9:40a -0.5

6:54a

5:37p

10:35a

9:06p

19

Th

1:19a

2.4

10:37a -0.3

6:55a

5:37p

11:31a

10:08p

20

Fr

2:08a

2.2

11:37a -0.2

6:56a

5:36p

12:18p

11:08p

21

Sa

3:11a

1.9

8:12p

1.5

12:36p

0.0

6:57a

5:36p

1:00p

22

Su

4:48a

1.6

8:26p

1.6

12:13a

1.4

1:33p

0.2

6:58a

5:36p

1:36p

12:06a

23

Mo

6:49a

1.6

8:45p

1.6

2:10a

1.1

2:24p

0.4

6:58a

5:36p

2:08p

1:02a

24

Tu

8:25a

1.5

9:06p

1.7

3:21a

0.8

3:08p

0.5

6:59a

5:35p

2:39p

1:55a

25

We

9:37a

1.5

9:25p

1.8

4:11a

0.6

3:47p

0.6

7:00a

5:35p

3:08p

2:47a

26

Th

10:38a

1.5

9:43p

1.9

4:53a

0.3

4:19p

0.7

7:01a

5:35p

3:37p

3:38a

27

Fr

11:30a

1.5

10:01p

2.0

5:31a

0.1

4:45p

0.9

7:01a

5:35p

4:08p

4:30a

28

Sa

12:19p

1.4

10:21p

2.1

6:07a -0.1

5:06p

1.0

7:02a

5:35p

4:41p

5:22a

29

Su

1:05p

1.4

10:43p

2.2

6:41a -0.3

5:23p

1.1

7:03a

5:35p

5:17p

6:16a

30

Mo

1:50p

1.3

11:09p

2.3

7:16a -0.4

5:38p

1.1

7:04a

5:35p

5:57p

7:11a

©2020 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW

Phase

3rd

New

1st

Full

32

Siesta Sand

Off Key

NOVEMBER 2020

941.312.0665

www.siestasand.net

By Bob Frederickson

From Cell Phone Blues to Fonda’s Good News…

Student’s Day Goes Down the Drain...

Losing your cell phone is high on any list of things guaranteed to ruin your day. But however bad it is for you as an adult, it’s at least ten times worse for a teenager... the social equivalent of being sent to Siberia without a sweater.

So, when a Pasco County teen dropped his phone through a storm drain grate a few days ago on his way home from school, he of course did what any not-so-clear thinking teen would: he lifted up a

nearby manhole cover and started to climb down into the drain to retrieve the mystical, magical device, prized as highly by today’s youth as the Golden Fleece was by Jason and the Argonauts.

But then the young man’s day proceeded to get exponentially worse.

As luck would have it, he got stuck. And with his phone – tantalizingly close, yet just out of reach – he was unable to call for help by his generation’s preferred mode of communication: text messaging. He did however eventually revert back to the traditional form of human communication that has served us

well as a species since the dawn of time: screaming. And whadya know?

It worked! Eventually someone heard his cries for help. The fire department was dispatched, and the boy was promptly extricated from his predicament after less than an hour spent ‘down the drain.’

Oh, and his rescuers were able to rescue his phone as well, so in short order the entire epic was likely posted on Facebook or Instagram.

appeal from a local hypnotist I heard on the radio the other morning started my day off with a welcome chuckle.

It began with this probing question: “Do you have unwanted anxiety?”

Which made me think: wouldn’t it pretty much follow that if I were suffering from anxiety, it would be unwanted? I mean, who wakes up and thinks ‘Gee, what a beautiful day. I wish I had a little anxiety to go with it...

Can this Day Get Any Better?

Manatee Man’s Ballot ‘Initiative’ Backfires

I’m sure you’ve heard or seen one of the many anxiety relief ads that have been popping up lately.

One particularly entertaining

Larry Wiggins, 62, had concerns about voter fraud impacting the upcoming general election; he was especially concerned about duplicate or invalid mail-in ballots being filled out and skewing results. So, when he received an application for a mail-in ballot from a third party group addressed to his deceased wife, he allegedly decided to fill it out, sign it and send it in to the Manatee County Election Supervisor’s office...just to ‘test’ the system.

Well guess what? The system passed the test! So well in fact that instead of receiving an illegitimate ballot by return mail; he got a knock on the door from a couple of Manatee County Sheriff deputies who arrested him for voter fraud, a third-degree felony.

The final irony here? If convicted on that charge, Wiggins won’t have to worry about voting for a while, at least not until he completes the terms of whatever sentence is imposed.

Remember the NBA? Just another routine sunset in early October on the #1 beach.

Me neither.

Somebody mentioned they think

they moved to China.

Measure Twice, Build Once?

We told you back in May how homeowners Kirk and April Tcherneshoff were shocked when they took possession of their new home in the Rosedale subdivision only to find that another even newer home had gone up on an adjoining lot, and it was startling close to their own.

Instead of the required 12-feet separating the two homes, the builder, Ashton Woods, had substantially completed the newer home just 7-1/2 feet from their own.

Ashton Woods had requested a hearing with Manatee County to ask for a variance, but we are pleased to report the builder has decided to forego that plan and simply tear the non-complying home down and start over, which of course is the neighborly thing to do, and a big relief for the Tcherneshoffs.

Hats off to Ashton Woods.

A Preview of Coming Attractions?

The Vice Presidential debate between Mike Pence and Kamala Harris was shown throughout the world, including China. Well, not all of the debate was shown in China. Right before Mike Pence said China was responsible for the Covid-19 virus that has killed 220,000 Americans, a splash screen appeared saying “we are experiencing technical issues.”

Those technical issues were remarkably resolved at the precise moment Pence completed his thought and Harris began speaking.

The Story behind Larissa’s Beautiful Gemstone…

Larimar is an extremely rare gemstone found only in the Dominican Republic. It was originally discovered in 1916 then later re-discovered in 1974 by Norman Riling, a member of the U.S. Peace corps and Miguel Mendez. Mendez combined his daughter ’s name Larissa (Lari) with the Spanish word, sea (mar).

Often purchased by families for their daughters because of the special symbolism of mother, father, daughter - to represent the union of family.

The stone is formed when hot gasses push crystalized minerals up through volcanic “tubes.” Most small blocks of Larimar are in situ, meaning they exist in the very place they were formed. However, through soil erosion, some pieces broke off and were moved by rainfall down the slopes of the hillsides and rivers. The river deposited them in the Caribbean Sea where some pieces washed up on the seashore by the waves.

In order to excavate the Larimar gemstone, miners must dig deep into the mouths of the vast volcanos.

Larimar ’s exquisite light blue color often seems to capture the beautiful blue colors of the sea and sky found in the Caribbean. For that reason, it is also sometimes known as the Caribbean gem.

Larimar is considered a healing stone and the Atlantis stone because it is claimed that some islands in the Caribbean, including the Dominican Republic, where part of the lost continent of Atlantis. Today, thousands of people, including holistic practitioners, use Larimar to assist and re-enforce healing processes.

Many customers at Silver City have discovered that their collection of Larimar is the one of the largest collections in Sarasota.

See the vast selection in person or online at www.Silvercitysarasota.com.

LARIMAR STONE JEWELRY CREATED TO EVOKE YOUR FAVORITE GULFSIDE MEMORIES

www.SilverCitySarasota.com

Also available online at www.SilverCitySarasota.com Silver City Sarasota 6539 Midnight Pass Rd, Sarasota, FL. 34242 Phone: 941-349-5030 Open Monday-Saturday 10am to 5pm Advertorial

www.siestasand.net

Island Humor

941.312.0665

  A dog thinks: Hey, these people I live with feed me, love me, provide me with a nice warm, dry house, pet me and take good care of me...THEY MUST BE GODS!!!!!

A cat thinks: Hey, these people I live with feed me, love me, provide me with a nice warm, dry house, pet me and take good care of me....I MUST BE A GOD.   Wife: “How would you describe me?�

Husband: “ABCDEFGHIJK.�

Wife: “What does that mean?�

Husband: “Adorable, beautiful, cute, delightful, elegant, fashionable, gorgeous, and hot.�

Wife: “Aw, thank you, but what about IJK?�

Husband: “I’m just kidding!�

NOVEMBER 2020

Your November Horoscope

• ARIES (March 21–April 19): Relationships dominate the month with soulful Venus in your partnership sector and your ruler, Mars, retrograde in your sign, offering a chance to Fun Facts review all your interactions. •Y ou accidently eat around a When the two oppose each pound (480 g) of insects every other on the 9th, you might see year. a side of yourself or your mate •T he sunlight you see is in fact (or “person of interestâ€?) that 8.5 minutes old – that is how hadn’t been obvious before. long it takes for light to travel The full moon/lunar eclipse to Earth from the Sun. on the 30th illuminates your •E very day, around 18 acres of communication sector, which pizza are eaten in America. can hit reset on anything that isn’t yielding the results you •A n average raindrop falls at desire. the speed of roughly 7 miles an hour. • TAURUS (April 20–May • I t takes an average person 7 20): If you’ve been ignoring minutes to fall asleep. certain health issues—or your •A n apple in the morning will stress levels and self-care— keep you more awake than a this month’s stars might be cup of coffee. the poke in the ribs you need.

Your ruler, Venus, is in your • I t takes 42 facial muscles to house of wellness until the frown but only 17 muscles to 21st. Throughout November, smile. •P eople spend an average of 22 she’ll form activating angles to three planets, which can spur years of their life asleep. you to action. The full moon/ •T he left-handed comprise 11% lunar eclipse on the 30th in of the world’s population. your security sector can shine •Y ou could stack 4 cars on the a light on a moneymaking top of a Tesla Model S and opportunity you might have its roof wouldn’t cave in, it overlooked before. Cha-ching! achieved the highest safety ranking in automobile history. • GEMINI (May 21–June 20): A new relationship could •A healthy human thigh bone spark up suddenly, taking is tougher than concrete. •M ovie trailers were originally single Geminis by surprise by shown after the movie, which the speed—and the passion!

Your ruler, quicksilver is why they were called Mercury, ends its three-week “trailersâ€?. retrograde on the 3rd and •C hess was invented in India. remains in your flirty fifth •T he camel protects its eyes house until the 10th. But the against the ever-present sand “headline newsâ€? comes on the with three eyelids.

30th, when the year’s only full •F ingers prune in water to give moon in your sign turns the you a better grip. Just another spotlight on you. It’s also a amazing evolutionary trick. lunar eclipse, which can bring

27th State Media LLC

33

By Suzanne Gerber

your efforts of the past half-year to a sizzling conclusion. • CANCER (June 21-July 22): You can finally gain traction on a professional project or get back in the public eye on the 13th, when action planet Mars resumes forward motion in your prominent tenth house.

But as a watery Cancer, you’re most affected by the lunar phases.

This month’s Scorpio new moon activates your creativity and romance zone on the 15th, but the “headline newsâ€? is the Gemini full moon/lunar eclipse in your imaginative twelfth house on the 30th, which green-lights all kinds of daydreams and fantasies! • LEO (July 23–August 22): Reconnection time! With Mars resuming forward motion in your house of travel and adventure on the 13th and Venus powering up your social third house, you won’t be happy holed up at home (much)—the big exception being the Scorpio new moon in your domestic quarters on the 15th. The rest of the month is great for starting new projects and enlisting supporters. Give that your best shot under the glow of the full moon/lunar eclipse in your community sector on the 30th. • VIRGO (August 23-September 22): Financial matters are front and center for the first third of the month as your ruler, analytical Mercury, goes through the books in your security sector. And once it straightens out on the 3rd, you can get your earnings or savings back on track. Your romantic life also comes back online when Mars corrects course in that area on the 13th.

A full moon/lunar eclipse in your professional zone on the 30th can bring you the recognition (and raise?) you’ve been waiting for!

• LIBRA (September 23– October 22): Make the most of your flirtatious and influential powers while your ruling planet, amorous and alluring Venus, lingers in your sign until the 21st. But it won’t be smooth sailing the whole time. The love planet collides with competitive Mars in your relationship house on the 9th, then she clashes with three other heavyweights, suggesting power struggles or battles of the will. If you’re looking to make a “personnel changeâ€? in that department, the 27th might just set it up for you! • SCORPIO (October 23– November 21): You can get a work project or a health issue resolved once Mars straightens out in that area on the 13th.

But pace yourself getting back up to cruising speed.

Your gift of gab returns— with a vengeance—when communicator Mercury enters Scorpio on the 10th followed by charismatic Venus on the 21st. In between, the year’s only new moon in your sign may inspire you to finally pursue a long-held (but not acted-on) dream. Ready, set, goal! • SAGITTARIUS (November 22–December 21): Wrap up any collaborative projects as early in the month as possible. Both communicator Mercury (in forward motion again on the 3rd) and creative Venus will leave your teamwork sector and settle into your introspective, healing twelfth house on 10th and 21st (respectively). It’s a great time to devote yourself to a personal project, but you’ll be happiest doing so on your own.

Notable exception: the full moon/lunar eclipse in your partnership realm on the 30th, which is all about twosomes! • CAPRICORN (December 22–January 19): You might have to bite your lip a couple times early in the month, Cap, but your strategic sign is all

about the end game. On the 1st, your ruler, cautious Saturn, forms a challenging angle to communicator Mercury (who’s wrapping up a retrograde) then again on the 6th, when it’s moving forward. This could be a rare chance for a do-over on something that didn’t quite hit the mark. Need a sounding board? Ask a friend for some straight-shooting feedback. • AQUARIUS (January 20–February 18): With the creative Sun blazing through your career corner until the 21st, you’re poised to leap up the ladder. And the year’s only new moon in Scorpio lands alongside el Sol on the 15th, planting seeds for your next major move, which can take up to six months to unfold.

Looking to shake up your romantic life? You’ll get your chance when love planet Venus opposes transformer Uranus on the 27th and a full moon/ lunar eclipse illuminates your partnership realm on the 30th. • PISCES (February 18– March 20): In need of an infusion of adventure—or just newness—in your life?

November delivers. The year’s only new moon in Scorpio lands in your ninth house of expansion and growth on the 15th, and it’ll plant seeds that continue to sprout over the coming several months. And your ruler, dreamy Neptune, forms a sweet sync-up with the Sun in that same realm on the 10th and finally resumes forward motion after spinning backward since June 23. Lights, camera, Pisces!

Suzanne Gerber, a locally based intuitive astrologer, shamanic/energy healer and spiritual life coach with a global practice, is available for readings and healings by appointment: https://www. starsandstoneshealing.com/ booking

Recipient of Best of Sarasota Home Care Award

Serving Sarasota, Manatee and Charlotte Counties

FL License #230517

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Join us in a fun, upbeat and positive living environment!

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RATES START AT $2,000

34

Siesta Sand

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Arts on the Horizon Hurricane season is over, temperatures are down, and there are more concerts in the air.

Literally, in the air - as in outside (is “in outside” an oxymoron?).

And the nice thing about “outside” is that it’s just about everywhere.

Anyway, let’s start with Selby Gardens, as it’s always nice to start the day, any day, with a meal. But in this case, specifically November 11th, Selby is hosting Lunch in the Garden. Why attend?

Well, it’s November and some of your snowbird friends will be returning to Sarasota, so it will be nice to see the top half of their head when you greet them after so many months.

And then their entire face when your delicious lunch is served.

Plus, remember, you’re in Selby Gardens, one of the “7 Natural Wonders of Sarasota”, so the entire surroundings will be beautiful. In addition, there will be an “internationally renowned speaker” to tell you something you probably don’t know.

On the evening of November 13th, the Garden is taking a twopronged approach to another festive occasion. The Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe will be singing to a select group of 150 in person guests at Soul in the Garden. Old favorites like Twistin’ the Night Away, Your Love Keeps Lifting Me (Higher and Higher), and Dancing in the Street will bring back old memories. The second prong of this approach will be that those who can skip a Michael’s On East catered dinner will be able to sit at home eating PBJ sandwiches and watching the festivities streaming into their living room, dining room, or bedroom - or, if their cable is long enough - in their own garden.

Singing of a different kind will be performed on the 17th when the Sarasota Opera brings some of its stars (sopranos, tenors, baritones, and bass) to the Gardens, with piano accompaniment, in the late afternoon/early evening. Given how the sun is setting earlier and earlier, there should be a glorious sunset, with some of the stars also being in the sky.

If jazz is more your thing, the

941.312.0665 Nature and you together…

By Rodger Skidmore

The West Coast Black Theatre Troupe will be playing through November 22nd.

Sarasota Artists series will be showcasing a great jazz sextet with the legendary Dick Hyman on piano fronting the Florida Jazz Masters - a one night only concert at Selby Gardens on December 6th. You’ve got plenty of time, so get tickets now.

Already in progress, and continuing thru November 29th, is the 45th Anniversary Orchid show, “Women Breaking the Glasshouse Ceiling,” celebrating Marie Selby’s contribution to Sarasota along with the lasting accomplishments of those who have built on her legacy. You can find more info at Selby.org.

Who are the best Spanish composers?

That’s really a trick question.

For one thing, is there a complete list of Spanish composers from which to choose? Deciding who is best is also, at best, subjective.

Do we include only composers whose birthplace was Spain? Or, do we include artists from the whole Spanish-speaking world, like Argentinian composer Astor Piazzolla (a true great) or Venezuela’s Antonio Lauro?

What about a Spanish composer like Robert Schumann? You say he’s German? Well, technically German, as in being born in Germany of German parentage, but he did write Spanisches Liederspiel for vocal quartet and piano. That puts Schumann right up there with other so-called “real” Spanish composers, like the French-born Maurice Ravel.

Anybody could write a bolero,

www.siestasand.net

but only Ravel could write Ravel’s Bolero, which is so uniquely Spanish. And if Spain had ever conquered Sweden, Johan Gustav Emil Sjögren would definitely have been named Juan. But they didn’t, and he wasn’t, so Emil only wrote Sieben Spanische Lieder which contains that great line Klinge, klinge, mein Pandero, after studying in Berlin.

Where can one watch and listen – live – to these great sounds of Spain? Right in your own home on the 15th of the month or replayed again from November 16th through December 14th. Go to ChoralArtistsSarasota.org for information about Spanish Flair.

In addition to the lovely singers on the Lieder selections (Nicole Smith, soprano; Hannah Boyd, mezzo soprano; Baron Garriott, tenor; and Tim O’Connor, baritone) the instrumentals by Ravel, Henriëtte Bosmans and Paul Dukas, have solos by Betsy Traba, flute; Joe Holt and Michael Stewart, piano; and Natalie Helm on cello. Do you want to know more about how or why all these composers from across Europe were writing Spanish songs or tunes? Then attend a livestreamed informal talk - Concert Insight: Spanish Flair - with Joseph Holt, artistic director of the Choral Artists of Sarasota, on November 5th at 10 AM.

Winter brings earlier sunsets, thus darker evenings

Ever since June 21st ( summer solstice), the days have been

getting shorter - and strangely, the nights have been getting longer. Coincidence? I don’t think so. How can we reverse this trend before December 21st ( winter solstice), at which time nature will do a reversal all on its own? The answer wasn’t at 2 AM on November 1st, when Daylight Savings Time ended.

That evening the sun set at 5:46 PM, starting the longest night of the year - just two days before the election. And you know what they say, “It’s always darkest before the dawn.” So, the only way to brighten your day is to Light Up the Night at the openair concert being held by the Westcoast Black Theatre Troupe (WBTT) most evenings thru the 22nd in the plaza outside their theater on North Orange Avenue.

While it may get dark around 6 PM, things will light up again

live band with Todd Bellamy on piano, Jamar Camp on keys, Brad Foutch on guitar, and EJ Porter on drums. Raleigh Mosely and Henry Washington are just two of the WBTT song stylists that will be rotating throughout these performances. Scary things like Halloween and the 2020 elections are over and the snows of winter have not begun - at least not here in Sarasota.

Instead we have harvest moons and cool evenings. What could be better? Information at Westcoastblacktheatre.org.

Big pond / little pond

New York, London, and San Francisco are “big pond” cities as they all have more theaters, Chinese take-out restaurants, and earthquakes than Sarasota.

But when it comes to the Sarasota School of Architecture, Sarasota is the biggest of all ponds. Learn

Sarasota architecture is in a league of its own.

for you at 7:30 PM when the lights come on and the doo-wop begins. Songs like “Love Train; “Signed, Sealed, Delivered,” “Reach Out, I’ll Be There,” and other favorites will float out over 84 sets of ears (socially distanced in separate 2-person 6 ft circles).

Jay Dodge will be leading his

about this post-war modern style of architecture from November 6th -8th when the Sarasota Architectural Foundation honors architect Carl Abbott with live discussions, driving tours, and even videos with Mr. Abbott explaining his creative process for chosen projects. Get more information at saf-srq.org.

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

NOVEMBER 2020

27th State Media LLC

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DISCOVER GULF GATE’S SHOPPING VILLAGE free frames with the purchase of new lenses. Call 941-444-7984 to set up an appointment with their licensed optician.

Mellow Mushroom serves a one of a kind pizza pie. The flavors and ingredients are just as unique and special as the restaurant’s design.

Try a Mellow Mushroom stonebaked pizza, munchies, calzone, salad, hoagie, or even a burger. Pick from our selection of 24 draft beers or tasty, handcrafted cocktails. And, many of our pizzas can be made gluten-free or vegan. Located at 6727 S. Tamiami Trail. 941-388-7504.

years we have successfully listed and sold many, many properties throughout Sarasota County. OUR PHILOSOPHY is to have fun, enjoy the experience, achieve great results, make friends and receive referrals. We’re with you every step of the way! Call 941-924-2330 or drop by our office.

Only Eyes, Optical (S-24) brings a new, exotic, eclectic, eccentric, unique collection of vintage, hipster, contemporary eyeglasses and sunglasses to the community. Licensed and experienced optician available to fill your prescriptions. Only Eyes Optical has a large assortment of

From Vintage to Modern An extension of your personality

EYE EXAMS AVAILABLE

Roberts Realty

John Garner

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complete frames* & lenses

Diane Shane

$

89 bifocal

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bring your prescription • FREE FRAMES while supplies last.

Pay only for plastic lenses • FREE ultrasound cleaning of glasses • Most repairs available on site

941-924-2330

Working with Sarasota Buyers & Sellers since 1969 • Local Expertise • Proven Track Record • Happy Clients

6541 Superior Avenue Gulf GAte BuSineSS DiStrict SArASotA, fl 34231

Condos, Villas, Single Family Homes & Investments

We are with you every step of the way!

941.444.7984 onlyeyesoptical.com

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This section helps highlight what you’ll find within this walkable Gulf Gate shopping Village.

Marshall’s

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Gateway Avenue

Sarasota Pavilion is a popular shopping destination for numerous locals and visitors alike. Its prime location is close enough to the island for frequent trips with a nice selection of chain stores set in one convenient location.

But what truly lends to the uniqueness of this district is the host of small, locally owned, specialty shops, boutiques, restaurants, and neighborhood bars bordering this pavilion. It makes for a fun and rewarding shopping experience.

Over 150 businesses make up this district.

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

Solórzano’s Late Night Pizzeria (S-32): At every Solórzano’s, they offer an experience familiar to those who understand the importance of family and dedication. Their recipes and techniques have been perfected through three long generations based on the traditional simplicity of the methods used by their Italian ancestors. Dine inside, outside, pick up, or DELIVERY anywhere on Siesta Key, or in Sarasota until 3:30 a.m. 6574 Superior Ave., 941-9245800.

Pride of the South (S-34) Pride of the South has been awarded Top Barbeque in Sarasota for 2016 by Trip Advisor and Yelp. It has been awarded for the best Southern Hospitality. Pride of the South has a brisket BLT, hands down, one of the best sandwiches you ever tasted. The smoked chicken wings are unbelievable. Backed up with the pulled pork sandwiches, the smoked bologna, the smoked Turkey, the collard greens, fried corn on the cob, fried okra, fried green tomatoes and one of the best mac n cheese you ever tasted. We do catering with no limit to size.

Call (941)926-0099. See you soon.

Gulf Gate Food + Beer (S-51): Sarasota’s late-night hot spot for the service industry, night owls, and midnight snackers.

It’s not your typical sports bar offering unique menu selections for carnivores and vegetarians. Be sure to check out their menu online at: eatfooddrinkbeer.com. Hours: 11 a.m. – 1 a.m. (Sun. - Thurs.) open until 2 a.m. (Fri & Sat.).

ROBERTS REALTY, Inc. (M5) John Garner, Broker Assoc. & Diane Shane, Broker Assoc. have a combined 40 years’ experience in Sarasota of making dreams come true for our clients. FOR BUYERS, we have had great success in finding the right property for our clients because we listen closely to their wants and needs and matching that as close as possible. FOR SELLERS, over the

Sun Trust

With our map, located below, you’ll be able to navigate your way to our featured shops with ease.

The Shop SRQ (G-2) offers flattops, fades, tapers, blowouts, razor cuts, and straight razor shaves.

Owners, Erick and Dawn use a back to basics approach to grooming with a precise attention to personal detail. Their commitment to excellence has provided them with many loyal customers. They welcome the opportunity to earn your trust. Hours: Tues. – Fri. 8:30am – 6pm, Sat., 8:30am – 3pm.

Closed on Sundays and Mondays.

Sarasota Brewing Co. (G-4) Sarasota’s first micro brew pub always has something new to offer. From over 20 seasonal beers that rotate throughout the year, the Brewing Company always has at least five unique brews online as well as several favorites from around the world. Established in 1989, their menu has been a winner in the Reader’s Choice Awards of the Sarasota Herald Tribune featuring their mouth-watering burgers, Chicago style pizzas, and Chicago beef sandwiches. With dozens of televisions, it’s a great place to catch a game with friends and family.

Gulf Gate Barber Shop (G11): has been an institution in the community for years, owned by Kyle Flannery. The super-clean barbershop’s clientele is comprised of primarily men, but the shop services children as well. Scott Reich, formerly of the Siesta Key Village Barber Shop has relocated to this location.

At the original Word of Mouth Restaurant (G-31), every seemingly insignificant detail receives special attention from the warm, inviting decor to each specially crafted variety of freshly baked muffins to the signature menu items. This small diner is where the locals come to eat breakfast and lunch.

Take a look at their menu at originalwordofmouth.com. Hours: Mon-Sun.: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.

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

6500 Gateway Ave. – 941-554-8905.

Tony’s Chicago Beef Company

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HOTTEST BAR IN GULF GATE...

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MLB/College Packages FULL BAR

6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905

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Siesta Sand

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941.312.0665

www.siestasand.net

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 43 HOMES FOR SALE PAGE 41 SIESTA KEY MARKET STATS PAGE 39

The Highs and Lows of Properties Sold on Siesta Key

Provided by Key Solutions Real Estate / www.keysolutionsrealestate.com

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 150 GIVENS STREET $3,800,000 This home is the only direct gulffront home, newer built (2005+), on all of Siesta Key currently available for purchase. Yes, there are options to build new from scratch for those with that time and patience to spare, but for those ready to add a true trophy property to their portfolio LOWEST PRICED SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE 5151 ST. ALBANS AVENUE $630,000 Charming and Beachy Siesta Key home centrally located on tree-lined property. Walk into a quiet 4 bed, 3.5 bath home with a large living room and open kitchen layout. It boasts a large, secluded backyard perfect for entertaining, and room for a pool.

Plenty of room inside and out for friend and family fun. A fountain at the entryway adds a sense of serenity as you arrive at the property. Movein ready with fresh paint, carpeting, beautiful quartz countertops and stainless steel appliances. The interior features an open floor plan with an upstairs master bedroom with French doors and attached private balcony, and three guest bedrooms on the first

now, this is the one. Designed by famed architect Guy Peterson, this home is positioned to capture the bar-none best water views on the entire island. Endless and wide ocean views by day filled with passing boat traffic, direct line of sight for sunsets year round, and the nighttime twinkling of the Downtown Skyline offers the trifecta of views both day and night. Gated secured entrance,

floor. Split-plan, one bedroom suite with private entrance. Large yard and plenty of space for a pool. Don’t miss this peaceful, spacious home and private oasis. Slip on your sandals for a short walk to Siesta Key, the #1 Beach in the US by Trip Advisor, or bike ride to quaint Siesta Key Village with great shops, restaurants, and entertainment.

Courtesy of ReMax Alliance

HIGHEST PRICED CONDO 657 BEACH ROAD $3,185,000 Brand new duplex condo construction directly across from Siesta Key Beach. Each unit is deeded sperate. Can be sold separate.

Two, 3-bedroom, 2.5 bath units that can be rented nightly. Built beyond the highest standards: poured concrete and block,

LOWEST PRICED CONDO 6713 MIDNIGHT PASS ROAD, #4 $259,000 Amazing price/location on Siesta Key for this 1BR/1 BATH GROUND FLOOR CONDO! Turn key Furnished with Top of Line Coastal Furnishings (from Ashley Furn!). Just down from Point of Rocks & Crescent Beach. Updated

3-car garage, heated swimming pool and spa, full outdoor kitchen and bar, 4 ensuite bedrooms, and an office with views guaranteed to inspire. All this while being walking to distance to the shops and dining of Siesta Village and a ten minute car ride to bustling Main Street in Downtown Sarasota or St. Armand’s Circle.

Courtesy of Michael Saunders and Company

Kitchen with Stainless Appliances, Tiled Backsplash, Grey-Planked Flooring, New Paint, Tiled Bath etc.

Open Living/Dining Areas leading through slider doors to the Screened Lanai! Small Complex of 14 Units! #1 Americas Best Beaches! Goodsized storage space! Owner has used lightly and AirB & B Rentals (2 week rental policy allowed).

steel interior studs, 10’ ceilings, sprinkled, Cat 6 internet, Quartz counters in kitchen and baths, state of the art flooring, LEDs throughout, washer/dryer, rooftop hot tubs with spectacular gulf views, enclosed garages, and private elevator for each unit.

Purchase both or individually.

Courtesy of Suncoast Luxury Properties

Low HOA Fee (incl. water, sewer & Cable TV)! Assigned private parking space with additional guest parking available. Siesta Breeze trolley that stops right in front of the condo to take you into Siesta Key Village! Ideal for return on investment and/or personal beach retreat.

Courtesy of Palmer House Properties

Another waterfront home Sold!

4848 Oxford

“We signed up with Seth because of his eager attitude and innovative approach. Together with Al, they shouldered the workload of multiple approaches to marketing our house.

Al's experience, contacts and dedication was instrumental in achieving the closing. A great team with a sincere heart. “ - Dave & Judy Thomas, Seller of 4848 Oxford

SETH: 941. 342. SOLD AL: 941. 479. 1175

Al Nemore & Seth Westerberg

It was such a pleasure to help the Thomases sell this one-of-a-kind property. We were so happy to have found Cynthia, who will be a the perfect addition to the neighborhood.

Everyone is happy, which makes us thrilled!

“Your real estate experIse helped me find my dream home and you went above and beyond to ensure that I had the right guidance during the enIre process. Your partnership exemplifies what it means to collaborate as a team in the best interest of the buyer and the seller. I couldn’t have done it without you “ - Cynthia Elliot, Buyer of 4848 Oxford

NMLS #1783476

Marty Remillard NMLS#343653

No Lender Fees 941. 223.9416

highdefinitionmortgage.com

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

195 Vista Hermosa Circle, Unit#9-A Sarasota, Florida

Wonderfully remodeled Freestanding Vista Hermosa Villa just a short walk to World Famous Siesta Beach.

You will fall in love with this 2-bedroom, 2-bath villa. Two week rentals make this a very attractive property for a investor or just picking up some extra income when you are not enjoying the property for yourself. Custom solid wood cabinets in the kitchen with granite counters & upgraded stainless steel appliances. Designer bathrooms boasting tumbled marble & granite. Smooth ceilings with custom lighting. Designer tile & carpet throughout.

Nothing has been spared. New A/C in 2017 and also a recently installed tankless water heater. The association replaced the roof in 2016. You are just a short walk to dining & nightlife. This villa is being sold turnkey furnished (with some exclusions).

Already booked for 2021 Season.

$399,000

NOVEMBER 2020

322 Island Circle Sarasota, Florida

Beaches, Boating & Bistros!! Live the island lifestyle in this spacious 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom house located on desirable Palm Island when rented was grossing approx. $60k in rental income. Recently renovated with new kitchen, new master bedroom and master bathroom. This house boasts a new boat lift on the Grand Canal. Lounge in the heated pool and spa or enjoy your favorite libation at your own private Waterfront Tiki Bar. Privacy abounds with a lovely tropical view across the canal. Huge bonus area on lower level.

This house is located on Palm Island which is a Island on a Island and is a sort walk to World Famous Siesta Beach(Beach Access 10) and Siesta Village with all its excitement and wonderful dining. This is the Perfect Home or Investment property for the discerning buyer.

$857,000

803 Paradise Way Sarasota, Florida

This Fully Renovated Siesta Isles Home is located on the Grand Canal at the intersection of the canal with 205 ft of seawall on Excellent Boating water. When you step into the home you are greeted by unobstructed water views with the Clearview Non-Vertical Support Pool Cage. Unbelievable Chefs Kitchen with 16 foot Quartzite all-natural stone counter. Master Bath has Multiple Shower Heads & Rain Shower. All bath counter tops are Quartzite all natural stone. The lighting throughout interior and exterior of the home is new, as is the electric main service & sub panel. Lot is freshly landscaped with new Paver driveway & decking with outdoor low voltage lighting. Lovely Pebble Tec Mediterranean Blue Pool surface graces the saltwater pool with a new 130k BTU pool heater for those cooler months. The huge fenced yard includes a secluded dog run. Just a short walk to #1 Siesta Beach’s soothing white sand & sparkling emerald waters.

$1,595,000

458 Island Circle Sarasota, Florida

Wonderful Siesta Key Grand Canal home located on desirable Palm Island (a Island on a Island) just a few minutes walk to Siesta Beach. You will fall in love with this 3,366 square foot 4 bedroom/3.5 bathroom Key West style home. Chill in the Mangrove shaded yard around the Fire Pit. This incredibly light & bright home features gleaming hardwood floors throughout the home, arched walls, crown molding. Glazed wood cabinetry in kitchen with stainless steel appliances, gorgeous custom granite counters & designer tile backsplash. Upstairs is a large master bedroom suite with tray ceiling & balcony with lovely water views, 2 additional oversized bedrooms and bath. The en-suite 4th bedroom is located on a separate, private level, ideal for a home office or guests. Relax on the multiple screened-in lanais overlooking the private backyard with heated swimming pool. Screened pool area on the canal with a boat lift & dock.

$1,315,000

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1122 Horizon View Drive, Siesta Key, Florida DEEDED BEACH ACCESS!! Your feet will be in the Gulf of Mexico in 60 seconds!!! This immaculate pool home features large rooms and volume ceilings.

Lovely oak floors and stylish tile will dazzle you. 3 Bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms along with the lower level bonus area for generational living or guests. The huge bonus area downstairs would be perfect for storage, workout center, hobby room or workshop.

The oversized garage could handle your cars, boat, jet skis, kayaks & bikes. Extensive decks for enjoying your Island Paradise abound!! You are walking distance to renowned local dining and a marina. In addition to all that, next door is Turtle Beach Park with kayak and boat launch facilities. This is one of the closest properties to the beach without having the direct beachfront price on a street of multi million dollar properties. A truly unique find!!

$849,000

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Island Reef offers tropical living on the southern end of Siesta Key Siesta Beach, or ride to fun eclectic Siesta Village with its wide variety of shops and restaurants.

This property welcomes pets and permits cats and dogs up to 30 pounds.

Unusual to Siesta, owners have the option to allow their renters to bring pets.

Recent home sales and current listings

Located on the less traveled and more tranquil southern end of Siesta Key, Island Reef is a tropical paradise. Extending across both sides of Midnight Pass Road, the community affords access to both the Gulf of Mexico and Little Sarasota Bay. Offering resident access to Turtle Beach, just grab your chair, suntan lotion and a good book and spend a relaxing day in the sun and surf. Turtle Beach Park is a great place for kids and adults alike with its pavilion, grills and picnic tables, play areas, lagoon, and boat launch.

Island Reef residents and guests enjoy resort-style amenities and services including two heated pools, fitness center, library and billiards room, meeting room, clubhouse, shuffleboard, tennis and pickle ball courts, boat docks, fishing pier, kayak launch, and grilling patios. Six mid-rise buildings house 173 units ranging from 1,300 to 2,000 square feet.

Built between 1975 - 1980, a typical unit features an open floor plan living/dining space, kitchen, two bedrooms, two bathrooms, and an enclosed lanai.

Bob Ruiz of Key Solutions Real Estate reports this community is an exceptional opportunity.

One of a few beach-to-bay communities on the Key, this property affords the best of island life. Exceptional amenities and services, Island Reef makes for a wonderful full-time residence, vacation home, or rental property.

The community’s location at the south end of the Key puts it within walking distance to three restaurants including a popular outdoor pub, and two waterfront locales – one featuring French haute cuisine and the other seafood and a variety of entrees. Hop on the Siesta Breeze trolley at the stop just outside the property and enjoy the free ride throughout Siesta Key. Stop at Mid-Key village for shopping and eats, de-board at world famous

Three 2 bedroom/2 bath Island Reef units have sold in the past six months, each approximately 1,300 square feet. The first sold in May for $450,000 - a sales price of $345 per square foot. A second unit sold in June for $575,000 or $430 per square foot, and the third unit sold in September for $635,000 or $475 per square foot.

The two higher priced units are on the Gulf-facing side of the community and enjoy water views.

Among the two condos currently listed for sale is a fully upgraded 2 bedroom/2 bath, light and bright end unit with abundant windows. Beautifully renovated and decorated, the unit is being sold furnished. Flooring in the common areas is ceramic tile laid on the diagonal while the bedrooms feature warm wood.

The kitchen features lovely wood cabinets topped with granite and stainless appliances. Both bathrooms and been updated and offer every convenience. The attention to detail is evidenced in wood paneled doors, crown and base molding, window treatments, ceiling fans and rich neutral colors throughout. In unit

laundry and covered parking complete this gorgeous condo.

The unit is listed for $499,000.

To learn more about Island Reef and the units currently available, contact Bob Ruiz, Key Solutions Real Estate Group, at 941-544-3299 or RobertRuizRR@aol.com

www.siestasand.net

www.siestasand.net

941.312.0665

NOVEMBER 2020

Going Through the Roof both single-family homes and condos with boat docks are in particularly high demand.”

Low mortgage rates are not what’s motivating these buyers, explained Ruiz, noting that primarily they are paying cash.

Due to COVID-19, he said, more people are working remotely from home and home can be Florida, a state without income tax. According to Ruiz, working from home leads buyers to want more space, indoors and out. “They want backyards; they want a porch and an extra bedroom to make an office.”

Shelter in place

Lin Dunn of Team Dunn/ Michael Saunders & Company also believes that the spike in sales was tied to the Covid-19 imposed lockdown. “People said, okay, if that pandemic comes back again, where do I want to be? In Chicago, New York, New Jersey? No,” he said, “they want to be in Florida!”

“We found that if a property was well-priced, well done, and with a pool and a view, it went immediately.” With inventory depleted, Dunn explained, the previously stagnant condo market accelerated. “I had a (condo) property just last week,” he recalled, “that came on the market for one day - it was a multiple offer situation.

It’s amazing what’s happening and it’s all because of the pandemic.” In September of 2019, Dunn said, the Michael Saunders Siesta Key office had $27 million in sales. This year it was $80 million. “It’s all because that person in New York or Chicago, is thinking, ‘if I’m

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he foresees is the dearth of inventory.

going to be stranded this year, I’d rather be stranded on sunny Siesta Key.’”

Low on listings

Back to the future

“This is the lowest inventory we’ve had in well over a decade,” said Dan Miller of Tropical Sands/ReMax. “Two of my people needed to find houses here locally, and I couldn’t find replacement houses.” Miller noted that there were only 83 single-family homes available, historically a very low number. Of those, only 15 were priced under one million, with just six canalfront properties available. As of mid-October, Miller reported 95 contracts pending. “It was a busy September,” he said.

“The slowest time is hurricane season, from mid-August, rolling into early October.”

However, during a seven-day period this October, Miller’s office had 14 listings, 16 sales, and 23 pending sales. “We’ve got more coming off the market than coming on. Inventory is not getting a chance to build,” he told the Siesta Sand.

A flying DeLorean made famous in the popular “Back to the Future” 1985 film sure would come in handy right now. But in the absence of time travel, it’s anyone’s guess about the future of real estate on the Key. Will this trend continue?

According to Siesta Key realtor Joe Kesslak of Gulf Shore Group/ReMax Alliance, “my gut feeling is yes, for a couple of reasons,” he said. “Interest rates are most likely going to remain low for quite some time and there’s normally a trend of northerners coming down to

“It’s amazing what’s happening, and it’s all because of the pandemic.” ~ Lin Dunn, realtor at Team Dunn/ Michael Saunders

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Timing is everything

For 30 years, Ken and Julie Young had their hearts set on retiring in Siesta Key. They had family here and visited often. A far cry from Seattle, Washington, Siesta offered their ideal lifestyle. Working with Joe and Wendy Kesslak, of Gulf Shore/ReMax Alliance Group, they closed on their dream home in July that is close to town, the beach, and on a canal. “We had been looking for a long time, and the right home came along at the right

Florida to retire and get second homes. Now people are leaving properties in the cities; they want more space. Someone in New York City might have an apartment that’s 1,000 square feet worth two million dollars.

Here they can buy a big home for a million dollars.” Another contributing factor, Kesslak noted, is the absence of state income tax. “New York charges 13.5% state tax. It’s crazy,” he exclaimed. The only “hiccup”

Continued on page 42

Let me help you make Siesta Key your home Who is Gina? She is a full-time realtor with Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Florida Realty.

She is also a proud member of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce. Her fondness for Siesta Key started at the early age of 8 when her family of 6 trekked down here from the Midwest.

Gina’s story: What began as a family affair, so to speak, was our cherished drives in a station wagon down to Siesta Key. I’ll always remember the friendships

we made and the family time shared, centered around the white sand beach, pristine and empty of shells. My fondest memory is of my beloved father going fishing with me by the Point of Rocks in Siesta Key. Why Gina? So, you ask me what makes me different than maybe another realtor? It is my experiences over all those years with Siesta Key, Sarasota, and the surrounding areas. I made the full-time move here a few years ago. I understand the stresses

one has in moving from out of state to be in the Florida sunshine.

Yes, this could be you, if you dare.

Are you tired of the cold? Would you like change in your life? Do you have fond memories Siesta Key or other surrounding areas? I would love, love, love to help you fulfill your dreams.

To reach me, please call or text 941-780-7323 or email ginalovesrq@gmail.com. I would love to help you or answer questions about the market or areas of interest.

Sarasota real estate update CUSTOM ESTATE ON LITTLE SARASOTA BAY

Gina Love

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• Making things happen on Siesta Key with Real Estate agents Bob and Sheri Ruiz from Key Solutions Real Estate Group. If you are looking to buy or sell on the Key contact us. Bob Ruiz 941-544-3299 RobertRuizRR@aol.com, Sheri Ruiz 941-400-4186 SheriLasley@aol.com

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HOMES FOR SALE • THE POINTE - Lovely well maintained fourth floor 2/2. Water views from every room. Spacious lanai spanning across the unit overlooks Little Sarasota Bay and the ICW. Inside washer/dryer closet and abundant closet space. Furnished - just bring your clothing and personal items and you can have the best of everything. Gated community with every amenity. MLS# A4470344 $429,000.00. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz Bob: 941-5443299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

EXCELSIOR - TRULY FABULOUS 2 /2 WITH PRIVATE BEACH ACCESS. Completely recently remodeled one of a kind END UNIT with exquisite finishes, the unit is being sold beautifully furnished.

The open floor plan with vaulted ceilings and abundant new High Impact WINDOWS features a huge living room with big views of the ICW and Bay. MLS #A4468456 $744,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz, Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

SUMMER COVE - Enjoy the finest of Siesta Key in this fully upgraded 3 bedroom, 2½ bath luxury condo.

A light and bright end unit with abundant windows and doors (all with impact glass built to hurricane code), enter the unit from your private elevator into a large lovely foyer. Enjoy natural light on 3 sides; 9’ ceilings; a gourmet kitchen with stainless appliances, wood cabinets, granite counter-tops, and breakfast bar, this unit offers incredible island living. MLS #A4469222 $975,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz, Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

NEW LUXURIOUS BEACHFRONT CONDO In the prestigious community, CRESCENT SIESTA KEY. This TURNKEY FURNISHED unit with a large West facing covered lanai, featuring an OUTDOOR KITCHEN, lives like a home on the beach. Highly sought after location, as it is one of only four units in the complex to allow direct access from the private lanai to the beautiful courtyard pool area. Averaging near six figure gross annual RENTAL INCOME, this unit provides the owner both a resort lifestyle and a sound investment. Perfectly located within walking distance to the restaurants and shops of South Siesta Village and Siesta Key Marina. 6512 Midnight Pass Road, #206, Sarasota, FL 34242 , MLS# A4478581, $1,379,000. Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255 NEW SURROUNDED BY WATER ON THREE SIDES The POINTE affords incomparable views.

From this lovely two bedroom, two bath condo at the southernmost end of Siesta Key you will wake to awe-inspiring sunrises over Neville Preserve on Little Sarasota Bay and marvel at the spectacular sunsets over the Gulf of Mexico. This impeccable unit has been beautifully renovated from floor to ceiling to include diagonally inset tile flooring throughout, solid-wood cabinets with granite counter-tops and stainless appliances in the open kitchen, and renovated baths. 9393 Midnight Pass Road, #205, Sarasota, FL 34242, MLS# A4472542 , $495,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255 NEW GULF-FRONT VIEWS The location is second to none, directly on the beach and just steps away from the heart of the village. Enjoy all the restaurants, boutiques, markets, spas, and nightlife within two blocks. This fabulous beachfront corner unit has five oversized balconies with stunning sunsets. The building recently underwent major renovations; plumbing, AC, generator, well, exterior concrete restoration, new fences, new entry security, interiors updated in the lobby, lounge, fitness/game area, and elevators. 9393 Midnight Pass Road, #P1, Sarasota, FL 34242, MLS# A4458168, $625,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941-894-1255 NEW PRICE CHARMING NEWER SIESTA KEY HOME. This home exudes all the best qualities of island living from the moment you walk through the door you’ll notice the open floor plan and brightness, this is a 3/2 home with fully fitted kitchen with stainless appliances tiled floors, and garage would make great holiday home/rental investment or a great alternative to a condo. 5025 Sandy Beach Avenue,

Sarasota, FL 34242, MLS# A4455201, $760,000, Key Solutions Real Estate, 941- 894-1255 Beaches, Boating & Bistros!! Live the island lifestyle in this spacious 4 bedroom, 4 bathroom house located on desirable Palm Island when rented was grossing approx. $60k in rental income. Recently renovated with new kitchen, new master bedroom and master bathroom. This house boasts a new boat lift on the Grand Canal. Lounge in the heated pool and spa or enjoy your favorite libation at your own private Waterfront Tiki Bar. Privacy abounds with a lovely tropical view across the canal. Huge bonus area on lower level. This house is located on Palm Island which is an island on an island and is a sort walk to World Famous Siesta Beach(Beach Access 10) and Siesta Village with all its excitement and wonderful dining. This is the Perfect Home or Investment property for the discerning buyer. Dan Miller, Re/ Max Tropical Sands, 941-376-7442.

WONDERFULLY REMODELED FREESTANDING VISTA HERMOSA VILLA, $399,000, 195 Vista Hermosa Circle, Unit#9-A, Sarasota, Florida. Just a short walk to World Famous Siesta Beach. You will fall in love with this 2-bedroom, 2-bath villa. Two week rentals make this a very attractive property for an investor or just picking up some extra income when you are not enjoying the property for yourself. Custom solid wood cabinets in the kitchen with granite counters & upgraded stainless steel appliances. Designer bathrooms boasting tumbled marble & granite. Smooth ceilings with custom lighting. Designer tile & carpet throughout. Nothing has been spared. New A/C in 2017 and also a recently installed tank-less water heater. The association replaced the roof in 2016. You are just a short walk to dining & nightlife. This villa is being sold turnkey furnished (with some exclusions). Already booked for 2021 Season. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands, 941-376-7442.

DEEDED BEACH ACCESS!! 1122 Horizon View Drive, $849,000, your feet will be in the Gulf of Mexico in 60 seconds!!! This immaculate pool home features large rooms and volume ceilings. Lovely oak floors and stylish tile will dazzle you. 3 Bedrooms and 3.5 bathrooms along with the lower level bonus area for generational living or guests. The huge bonus area downstairs would be perfect for storage, workout center, hobby room or workshop. The oversized garage could handle your cars, boat, jet skis, kayaks & bikes. Extensive decks for enjoying your Island Paradise abound!! You are walking distance to renowned local dining and a marina. In addition to all that, next door is Turtle Beach Park with kayak and boat launch facilities. This is one of the closest properties to the beach without having the direct beachfront price on a street of multi-million dollar properties. Quality concrete block construction throughout for peace of mind. A truly unique find!!

Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands, 941-376-7442.

Wonderful Siesta Key Grand Canal home located on desirable Palm Island (an island on an island) just a short walk to Siesta Beach. 458 ISLAND CIRCLE, $1,315,000. You will fall in love with this 3,366 square foot 4 bedroom/3.5 bathroom Chill in the Mangrove shaded yard around the fire pit. This incredibly light & bright home features gleaming hardwood floors throughout the home, arched walls, crown molding.

Glazed wood cabinetry in kitchen with stainless steel appliances, gorgeous custom granite counters & designer tile backsplash. Separate eating area and a spacious breakfast bar for casual gathering along with a separate dining room . Upstairs is a large master bedroom suite with tray ceiling & balcony with lovely water views, 2 additional oversized bedrooms and bath. The en-suite 4th bedroom is located on a separate, private level, ideal for a home office or guests. Relax on the multiple screened-in lanais overlooking the private backyard with heated swimming pool. Screened pool area off the main living area on the canal with a boat lift & dock. You can step out of your back yard onto your boat & head off to exciting watersports and the best fishing

Southwest Florida has to offer. Palm Island is an Island on Siesta Key. It is a very short walk to World Famous Siesta Beach just over the Palm Island Bridge at Beach Access 10, while also close to the World Class Dining & Night life of Siesta Village. Dan Miller, Re/ Max Tropical Sands, 941-376-7442.

This Fully Renovated Siesta Isles Home is located at 803 Paradise Way, Sarasota, Florida on the Grand Canal at the intersection of the canal with 205 ft of seawall on Excellent Boating water. When you step into the home you are greeted by unobstructed water views with the Clearview Non-Vertical Support Pool Cage. Unbelievable Chefs Kitchen with 16 foot Quartzite all-natural stone counter. Master Bath has Multiple Shower Heads & Rain Shower. All bath counter tops are Quartzite all natural stone. The lighting throughout interior and exterior of the home is new, as is the electric main service & sub panel.

Lot is freshly landscaped with new Paver driveway & decking with outdoor low voltage lighting. Lovely Pebble Tec Mediterranean Blue Pool surface graces the saltwater pool with a new 130k BTU pool heater for those cooler months. The huge fenced yard includes a secluded dog run. Just a short walk to #1 Siesta Beach’s soothing white sand & sparkling emerald waters. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands, 941-376-7442.

Siesta Cove Paradise: Island Life is easy in the impressive, newly remodeled, generously spacious home located in an exclusive, family-friendly community of Siesta Cove. This 4-bedroom, 4 full bath home provides the perfect backdrop for entertaining & family gatherings. Plenty of natural light flows throughout the home’s open, airy layout.

It’s beautiful coastal finishes, design, & tranquil color scheme, makes this home a perfect beach retreat!

French doors lead out from the living area, den & master suite to a large, paved lanai that stretches the entire back of the home. Enjoy the private, tropical oasis in the back that includes a resort-style Lagoon Pool with integral spa. MLS# A4478244 $1,435,000 RE/MAX Alliance Group, Wendy & Joe Kesslak Joe:941-321-8585 Wendy:941-321-7484 MOVE-IN READY CONDO: Welcome to one of the most desirable units in all of Serenade on Palmer Ranch, which even has its own garage! This corner penthouse unit overlooks a large pond and faces west for gorgeous sunsets every night from your screened-in covered lanai! Walking in, you’ll immediately notice the extra tall 10-foot ceilings with double crown molding and open concept living. This is the largest unit available with three bedrooms and two baths on a split floor plan, with lots of storage. Updated appliances include a Samsung range, KitchenAid convection microwave, ultra-quiet Samsung dishwasher, and new washer.

The A/C was replaced in 2020 and comes with a dehumidifier. The generously-sized master suite easily fits a king-sized bed, and has a large walk-in closet and ensuite bathroom. In the guest bath, you’ll find updated porcelain tile flooring and new vessel sink with designer faucet. Ample storage is found throughout with a coat closet at the entrance, closet pantry in the kitchen, linen closet in the hallway, and a storage room just outside your front door. This is a gated community full of resort-style amenities, including two large heated swimming pools, hot tub, fitness center, tennis court, club house with entertaining space both inside and out, and BBQ grills. You also have the added benefit of sending your kids to the most desirable of Sarasota schools.

This Condo truly must be seen in person. You won’t be disappointed! KW on The Water, MLS # A4478624, $218,000, presented by the Westerberg Group. Call Al (941) 479-1175 or (856) 278-7522 or Seth (941)-342SOLD (7653).

GREAT INVESTMENT PROPERTY! 2 bedroom, 2 bath villa located just a few miles to #1 rated Siesta Key Beach! This ground floor villa has large bedrooms, a spacious living room with separate dining space, plus a covered Florida room. Ample storage is found in the large closets, pantry closet and separate laundry room. Fresh paint throughout and recessed lighting makes for a bright living space.

Set in a fantastic community with a low HOA, yet you get a multitude of amenities. The large community pool has a peaceful setting and is the perfect place to soak in some rays. You also get use of the large clubhouse, which houses a kitchen, gathering spaces, fitness center and billiard room. Great rental income, only $140,000, 2782 Woodgate Lane Unit #16, MLS# A44080339, KW on the Water presented by The Westerberg Group, Call Seth 941.342.7653 or email sethw@kw.com

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Midnight Pass Roundabout “The public input … was not supportive of a roundabout.”

However, he continued, people then were not as familiar with that type of intersection design.

The roundabout was the top choice of three proposals FDOT was considering, Anderson added. The other two, he pointed out, were a no-build option and improvements to the signalized intersection.

department’s Five Year Work Program, Anderson said.

Asked how soon the roundabout could be built, Anderson said that it would take “probably close to a year.”

“There’s shortfalls in roadway budgeting,” Commissioner Alan Maio said, but he indicated that if a project is included in the Five Year Work Program, that is a sign that the department is

Conceptual roundabout configuration for proposed roundabout.

In the spring of 2022, Anderson continued, FDOT plans to resurface the portion of Midnight Pass Road from the Stickney Point Road intersection to Shadow Lawn Way, which is the entrance to the Siesta Isles neighborhood. Therefore, he told the commissioners, FDOT would like to move ahead with the roundabout plans for Beach and Midnight Pass roads. If the commissioners agree to proceed on that path, Anderson added, the county would need to complete the design by October 2021, at a cost $360,000.

FDOT would cover the $1-million construction expense, he pointed out.

The project is included in the

intent on undertaking it.

As part of an initiative that began about three years ago, FDOT is taking over authority of River Road between U.S. 41 and Interstate 75. In exchange, the county is assuming control of Stickney Point Road west of U.S. 41, along with Midnight Pass Road from the Stickney Point Road intersection to Higel Avenue, and with Higel Avenue and part of Siesta Drive.

Anderson noted on Sept. 22 that the “road swap” would be complete after FDOT formally files all the right of way paperwork linked to the changes in roadway authority, which is expected later this year.

As a result of the discussion,

nerWord Search

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the commissioners voted unanimously to direct county staff to continue its public outreach efforts, which Anderson has been pursuing since then. Among those steps, staff launched a survey that was live during October to gather comments about the proposed roundabout. The results, staff said, would be presented to the commissioners this month.

Additionally, Anderson and Carolyn Eastwood, director of the county’s Capital Projects Department, made a presentation to about 40 members of the Siesta Key Association (SKA) on Oct. 1. Anderson showed them a number of slides, which illustrated improvements that could be made to the signalized intersection, in lieu of a roundabout.

Most of the attendees’ comments were focused on the high pedestrian use of the Beach Road/Midnight Pass Road intersection.

SKA President Catherine Luckner told the SNL that if island residents believe pedestrians will be safe trying to get through that intersection with a roundabout in place, then their support of the proposal will increase.

“I just don’t see it,” she said.

“I don’t think [SKA] members can see it either,” she added, referring to a roundabout’s functioning smoothly for people on foot as well as in vehicles.

As of Oct. 6, Mason Tush, chair of the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and a member of the family that owns CB’s Saltwater Outfitters, said Anderson had not contacted Chamber leaders about meeting with them.

During the late spring, Tush added, he did participate in a Zoom session with Anderson,

www.themariner.com

Aerial view of proposed roundabout for Midnight Pass Road & Beach Road

when Anderson broached the revival of the roundabout proposal.

Tush did note one concern, which long-time Siesta Chamber Director Mark Smith also pointed out to the SNL in a separate telephone interview: If traffic backs up on Midnight Pass Road because the Stickney Point Road drawbridge is open, “What happens at the roundabout?” as Tush put it.

Will the motor vehicles just stop in the roundabout, Tush asked.

That is an issue that county staff will have to consider, Tush and Smith pointed out.

Smith also concurred with Luckner about pedestrian safety, noting that many visitors park at St. Boniface Episcopal Church, which is located at 5615 Midnight Pass Road, and then walk over to Siesta Public Beach. Those pedestrians use the crosswalks at the Beach Road/Midnight Pass Road intersection, he added. “Can [they] manage the roundabout in a safe manner?”

Worries on the Key

Commissioner Christian Ziegler said during Anderson’s discussion with the board members. “[People are] passionate on both sides.”

Commissioner Charles Hines noted that signalized intersections are more expensive to maintain. Moreover, he said, “Safety is better [with roundabouts].” The vicinity of the Beach Road/Midnight Pass Road intersection, Hines added, “is a dangerous area where people like to go fast. [A roundabout] slows them down, [and], aesthetically, it’s a lot prettier.”

Anderson noted that not only have roundabouts proven themselves safer than signalized intersections, but they also entail about 25% less “points of conflict,” as he put it, between vehicles and pedestrians.

“The public mindset has really changed on roundabouts,” Commissioner Nancy Detert pointed out. In general, she said, roundabouts “[speed] up traffic, of which there is much … on that [Siesta Key] road.”

Roundabouts are “the one issue that’s always 50%,”

m

Through the Roof

ne

time,” Ken Young recalled.

Shortly after they closed there were opportunities to sell their new Siesta Key home for more than they paid. They happily declined.

A changed landscape

Al Nemore and Seth Westerberg of the Westerberg Group summed up the dramatic market shift. In a joint interview with the Siesta Sand, Nemore and Westerberg spoke about the current market. “Covid, and frankly all the turmoil across the country, has dramatically changed the real estate market on Siesta Key,” said Nemore. “It went from a buyer’s market to a seller’s market in just a few months. We’ve had homes that were on the market for over a year that had only received lowball offers up until the beginning of the summer,”

Continued from page 39

Westerberg commented.

“It seemed overnight that showings dramatically picked up and multiple offers came in. The biggest surprise was when all our properties under contract started getting backup offers as well. That’s when we knew there was a BIG shift happening.”

Missing our foreign friends

Amid the recent flurry of sales, one “key” element is missing: our seasonal Siesta Key residents from abroad. “We miss our Canadian and European friends and owners,” said Key Solutions’ Bob Ruiz. “Travel restrictions prevent them from using their precious Siesta second homes. We are praying for normalcy sooner than later and look forward to the return of our friends from abroad.”

Answers to the WORD SEARCH from page 29

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NOVEMBER 2020

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IMPORTANT NUMBERS Emergency (General)......................................................................911 Emergency Animal Clinic.............................................941-929-1818 Fishing & Hunting Licenses.........................................941-362-9888 FPL – Florida Power & Light........................................941-917-0708 FPL – Outage Report.................................................. 1-800-468-8243 Marriage License Bureau..............................................941-362-4066 Poison Info Center..................................................... 1-800-282-3171 Sarasota / Bradenton Intl. Airport..............................941-359-2770 Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT).........................941-316-1234 Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce..............................941-349-3800 Sheriff / non-emergency..............................................941- 861-1601 Waste Management........................................................941-924-1254

Sunset Beach Resort Siesta Key Dream Inn

Still Family Owned and Operated Since 2007 6600 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota BestWesternSiestaKey.com 941.924.4900

AAA-3 Diamond Property

• 114 Guest Rooms • One and Two Bedroom Suites Now Available • Complimentary Grab & Go Breakfast Every Morning • Free Shuttle Service to and from Siesta Key every day.

• Microwave/Fridge in every guestroom *Amenities and services may be adjusted due to COVID-19, please contact the hotel or visit our website for details

*Use of the pool for Registered Guests Only

Complimentary shuttle service to and from anywhere on Siesta Key. Running daily from 10AM-11PM (driver tips only)

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Siesta Sand

NOVEMBER 2020

941.312.0665

Volleyball Fanatic

Macy This month’s Volleyball Fanatic is Macy Jerger of Ft. Meyers. During the school year she plays on a scholarship at Florida State, but during the summer plays as many Dig The Beach tournaments as she can. One of Jerger’s favorite tournaments is the annual Fiesta on Siesta Collegiate Volleyball Tournament, the largest collegiate sand volleyball competition in the United States. Thirty colleges from across the country are represented by 325 female athletes.

Photos by Trebor Britt

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