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Alpine Steakhouse & Butcher Shop has been a local family-owned business for over 40 years. Page 28
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APRIL 2015 | 941.349.0194 | ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC | www.SiestaSand.net | COMPLIMENTARY
DAISY DUKES BAND
Rachel Matthes and Kari Rae of the Daisy Dukes Band both have ties to Siesta Key.
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CG DESIGNS
From bridges to beaches, Key improvements By Roger Drouin
As our Sarasota county commissioners hone in on the county’s fiscal year 2016 budget, funding for several Siesta Key projects is beginning to take shape. At three separate meetings over the past two months, county commissioners discussed funding for infrastructure improvements on the Key—from a new Siesta wastewater lift station to repairs at eight smaller, hump bridges across the island. On Feb. 18, commissioners voted to approve a contract with Uretek Holdings for $759,090 to repair the eight bridges on the Key. On March 17, the board approved $829,075 in funding for the engineering phase of the new Siesta Key lift station and a section of wastewater pipe. Then, at a workshop March
20, the County Commission reviewed infrastructure funding in the countywide five-year Capital Improvements Program (CIP), which includes funding for several Siesta projects in 2016. The CIP program includes the ongoing Siesta Public Beach improvements and a South Siesta Beach Renourishment project. Funding for both are slated for final approval in August when county commissioners approve the fiscal year 2016 budget. The mix of projects is good news for the Key, says Michael Shay, president of the Siesta Key Association. “Any infrastructure improvements to be done out here, especially when it comes to the shoreline and the beaches, is always good news,” Shay told Siesta Sand.
Siesta Key Round-Up
Big Pass Dredging Update
By Bob Stein, Debbie Flessner, & Roger Drouin
On March 17, the City of Sarasota and the Army Corp of Engineers (ACOE) submitted a Joint Permit Application to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) to start the long permit process for dredging the Big Pass Shoal. Permits need to be approved by both the Federal Government and State of Florida. For our first time visitors of Siesta Key here is the Project Description: The proposed project is to nourish 1.6 miles of shoreline on Lido Key, basically adding 30 acres. Lido Key sits just north of Siesta Key and the Big Pass Shoal is the sand bar that can be seen as you look north between the two islands. Approximately 950,000 cubic yards of sand will be harvested for the nourishment event. Two groins are also proposed between R-42 and R-44, towards the south end of the fill template. A third groin is proposed for implementation in the event future monitoring data shows further stabilization would be necessary in the Ted Sperling Park at the southern end of Lido Key. The FDEP process is the State review. Once the FDEP has reviewed the submittal and had their questions answered, they will publish a notice allowing for public comment. It is expected to take the State several months to review the
Legal limbo
Cheryl Gaddie is the founder of CG Interior Design, on Siesta Key, and designer for some of the most opulent homes and successful businesses in the area.
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ARTIST OF THE MONTH
But even the repairs to the smaller, hump bridges on the island are needed, Shay said. Most mornings, Shay walks his dogs across one of those bridges, on Givens Street. “I have seen cracks in the pavement that run from one side of the bridge to the other,” Shay said. “In the back of your mind you wonder, ‘Gee, I hope this is OK.’ And to see it included in the list (of improvements), it’s good to see they are checking things closely and putting money where it’s needed.” Shay notes that improvements will benefit both permanent residents and the many beach goers who come to Siesta. “We need to keep up with our infrastructure here,” Shay said. Here is a breakdown of some of the projects discussed:
One of the most controversial land disputes on Siesta looks like it could be heading to the County Commission soon. The open question is just how soon. At the heart of the issue is whether to allow a property owner the right to construct a home at 162 Beach Road, a property located water-ward of the Coastal Setback Line (see February issue of Siesta Sand – http://siestasand.net/featureone-2-15). The Beach Road property is at the center of a special-magistrate-mediated effort between the county and the current property owners, Ronald and Sania Allen, who have appealed the last rejection of their request for a Coastal Setback Variance. Residents in the Village say the outcome of the mediation could impact their properties—and could have a wider effect across Siesta. Continued on page 4
South Siesta Renourishment
The $19.9 million dollar beach renourishment on South Siesta — which includes Turtle Beach Park — is included in the county’s five-year Capital Improvements Program. According to Sarasota County, funding for the $19.9 million dollar project will come from Tourist Development Tax dollars, state beach funds or commercial financing, along with MSBU (property assessed annual fees paid by property owners near the renourishment). However, the start date for the project has been delayed, due to what county officials at the March 20 workshop called a “curve ball.” Continued on page 24
submittal. The NEPA process is a Federal review. This draft will be released soon and there will be time for public comment. There will be a meeting at the City of Sarasota with the ACOE presenting their new draft. (At the time of press no date and time were scheduled). This date may be in mid-April, so be sure to monitor the City of Sarasota for press releases of the exact time and date if you wish to attend this meeting. Publisher’s Note - Some questions to consider before a final decision is rendered: Did the ACOE use a 2004 EA draft (Environmental Analysis)? Has the County hired a Coastal Engineering firm for review to determine the impact dredging will have on the shoal? Will the County allow the ACOE to add the 3rd groin on Ted Sperling Park on Lido Key? Will the County allow the ACOE to use the Ted Sperling Park for staging purposes if the permits are OK’d? The Big Pass Shoal has never been dredged and is the natural way the Siesta Key beach receives its sand. The biggest draw to Sarasota is Siesta Key’s #1 USA Beach status. Siesta Key has continuously received its accolades because of the sand on the beach. It’s “why the world comes to Sarasota.”
Meet Martha Smith, artist and owner of The Gallery On Siesta Key.
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• ISLAND FISHMONGER • FISHING REPORT • TIDES CHART
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LOCAL MAPS & INFORMATION
See Page 17
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SIESTA SAND
April 2015
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net
Siesta Key Association meeting notes Annual Breakfast Meeting
The March 7th gathering was a grand success. A lavish Breakfast Buffet was served to a room filled with guests. The Call to Order came at 9:30 am, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Tom Harmer, County Administrator.
Committee Reports
Catherine Luckner reported that in August of 2014, SKA supported the use of tourist revenues to help re-nourish Lido beach, and the County Commission approved up to one million dollars for this project. Catherine said that in the middle of March the Army Corps of Engineers would be ready to release a new environmental assessment. SKA cannot develop a strategy until they have seen that plan. Their aim is to be certain Siesta Key, Lido, and the waters of the Bay are all kept in good shape. The County has approved $50,000 for an independent peer group to review this new assessment after it has been released. Bob Stein reported that the
www.siestakeyassociation.com
Thursday, April 2 • 4:30 PM St. Boniface Episcopal Church 5615 Midnight Pass Road, Room F
Current and Capital improvement projeCts Please join us as we welcome guest speaker
Sarasota County Commissioner Charles Hines
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President’s Message
President Michael Shay reiterated the SKA mission, which is basically to protect Siesta Key. Some are long running projects, such as the dredging of Big Pass, while others are done in a day, such as road cleanup. He gave tribute to his mentor, Catherine Luckner, who taught him that one does not have to be adversarial to get things done.
Acknowledgements and Special Guests
Michael acknowledged the many organizations and individuals that join SKA in protecting the Siesta Key environment. The introduction of each group or individual was met with applause for their valuable contribution. Capt. John Walsh of the Sheriff’s Office said that his agency is so entrenched within the community that we do not have the problems of other communities. Law Enforcement works with the goal of preventing crime before it happens. Siesta Key is served by veteran law enforcement personnel, all with years of experience.
2015 Directors and Officers
Joyce Kouba, Nominating Chair, introduced the SKA Board and Officers. They are: Michael Shay, President; Robert Stein, 1st Vice
President; Catherine Luckner, 2nd Vice President; Joyce Kouba, Secretary; and Paul Wilkinson, Treasurer. Board members also include Troy Roberts, Beverly Arias, Helen Clifford, Deet Jonker, and Joe Volpe.
Introduction of Speakers
Michael Shay first introduced Alan Maio, recently elected as County Commissioner. Alan was quick to emphasize that he had not “defeated” Nora Patterson. She had reached term limits by serving for two full terms, a total of 8 years. “Nora will be my historical resource,” he said. Commissioner Maio spoke glowingly of the Siesta Beach renovation, which is 2/3 complete, and will include 143 extra new parking places: “It will be a beautiful, beautiful thing!” The beach receives over 2.5 million visitors a year, and the cost of renovations is 17 million dollars. This has been accomplished with no increase in the 3.39 millage over the past 15 years. Sarasota County recently saved 69 million dollars in interest charges, resulting in major improvements to Sarasota’s credit rating. Commissioner Maio said that the County has endorsed $300,000 for a Parks Master Plan. Sarasota County has 160 parks covering 55,000 acres. “One third of the County is in Public ownership. Other communities just don’t have that.” Furthermore, the beautiful new Gulf Gate Library is now open, four brand new fire houses are being built, and Suncoast Technical College is expanding. Sarasota County operates on a 1.15 Billion Dollar Budget, and has $155 million dollars in reserves. Continued on page 33
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Be Good To Yourself... Travel Light! Jack and Hanna Gatkiewicz are the owners of MAIL PACK CENTER OF SIESTA KEY. Their motto of their business is BE GOOD TO YOURSELF – TRAVEL LIGHT. The couple originally came from Krakow, Poland, one of that nation’s most historic and largest cities. Cited by UNESCO as unique among Europe’s beautiful cities, Krakow has for centuries been a center of Polish academic, cultural, economic and artistic life. The Gatkiewicz’s left this remarkable city to come to America in 1981. Their eldest son, Philip, was born in Krakow, while their youngest son, Peter, was born in the USA. Once settled in Chicago, the family escaped that city’s fierce winters by vacationing in Clearwater Beach. In 1993, they were drawn to Sarasota and purchased a condo on the mainland. The original plan was to use this condo in the summer and rent it in the winter. Hanna, however, soon developed other plans. “My wife refused to come back to Chicago,” says Jack, with a grin. “We put the kids in school in Sarasota. It took me two years of going back and forth to sell the Chicago house.” In 1997, Jack and Hanna opened MAIL PACK CENTER OF SIESTA KEY in the Southbridge Mall at the south end of the Key. At the time, many of these types of stores were opening in Florida. That was because more and more “Snowbirds” were moving here and shipping their furniture and belongings. The current of goods also went in both directions as grandparents sent gifts back to faraway kids. Before long MAIL PACK CENTER OF SIESTA KEY was flourishing, and the Gatkiewicz’s were handling packages, large and small, sent by UPS, FedEx and the U.S. Post Office. The store became a FedEx Authorized ShipCenter and a UPS Authorized Shipping Outlet, insuring the latest pick-ups
for time-sensitive deadlines. The Gatkiewicz’s were delighted with our Sarasota schools. Both sons attended Riverview, where Peter took up the Tuba and Sousaphone, and marched with the Kiltie Band. After graduation, Phil helped out for a while at MAIL PACK CENTER before moving along to Pennsylvania where he now works in the main office of IKEA. Phil is the father of the Gatkiewicz’s treasured granddaughter, Milla, now 8, while Peter now works with his parents at their Siesta Key shop. The couple is proud of MAIL PACK CENTER. Says Jack,“In the course of 18 years, we have met many wonderful people here at the store. Interesting people: musicians, actors, business people, sports people—they all come to our shop. We even did shipping for a 5-star General!” Besides shipping and packing, the store provides notary service, internet services, WIFI, computertime rental, scanning, forwarding services and mail box rental. They do photocopies, scan & e-mail, crating, laminating, sell postage stamps, and provide fax service. For Do-It-Yourself customers, they carry a complete line of packaging materials, including shipping boxes in dozens of sizes, photo mailers, envelopes, mailing tubes, packaging tapes, and cushioning materials. Large items are given custom handling, such as the provision of blanket wrap or custom cartons and crating. Besides handling non-breakable items, MAIL PACK CENTER OF SIESTA KEY specializes in the shipment of antiques, artwork, electronics,
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC
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By Diana Colson
Son, Peter, Hanna & Jack
Peter played the Sousaphone in Riverview’s Kiltie Band.
Mail Pack Center Celebrating 18 years of business this year.
crystal, china and porcelain. (Recently the Gatkiewicz’s packed and shipped out a large, antique hurdy-gurdy. The fragile stringed instrument was sent to Germany, where it arrived in perfect condition.) When asked how shipping has changed over the years, Jack said: “There is no surface mail any more. The coming thing is inexpensive international shipping.”
Recently, MAIL PACK CENTER began dealing with a new company, POLONEZ PARCEL SERVICE out of Massachusetts, a business owned by people of Polish decent. Says Jack, “They accept very big boxes, and even things like cars. They come here about once every two weeks with a big truck and pick up things from us that are going to countries in the European Union.” Goods are trucked to Massachusetts
and then shipped by boat or air to Poland. After going through Polish customs, goods are then sent on to various European countries. “It is very inexpensive compared to other ways of shipping: $2 per pound for shipping by sea, a little more for shipping by air.” Jack and Hanna return to Krakow every couple of years to visit family. Says, Jack, “We are lucky to live in two nice places in the world: Sarasota and Krakow.” The Gatkiewicz’s would be happy to serve as your personal packers, so call or stop by for a free estimate. The shop also gladly accepts clean packing ‘peanuts” and rigid formed Styrofoam pieces for recycling. MAIL PACK CENTER OF SIESTA KEY is part of the Neighborhood Postal Center Network, a group of 3,000 mail and parcel centers serving the USA. Located at 6547 Midnight Pass Road, the shop is open on Monday-Friday from 9 to 5:30, and on Saturday from 9-2. Their phone number is 941-346-3303, and their website is www.mailpackcenter.com.
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SIESTA SAND
April 2015
Siesta Key Round-Up
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net Continued from cover story
As of Siesta Sand’s press time at the end of March, county officials report that the topic isn’t yet slated for any of the next, upcoming county commission agendas. But a source close to the negotiations tells Siesta Sand that an agreement has been reached between the county attorney and Ronald and Sania Allen, and could be presented to commissioners in the near future. Even if the county attorney’s office and the property owners reach an agreement, the County Commission would have to OK any deal.
Osborne was asked to move to cover patrol in the North Sarasota area, due to a vacancy left open by a retirement. “We have several new supervisors, and Sgt. Osborne is valued for experience and was willing to help us out,” she said. “Rest assured that we have plenty of supervision on Siesta Key, however, we do not currently have a timeline for the final decision on a permanent replacement.”
Siesta Key substation sergeant reassigned
The downside, if there is one, for living and working in paradise has to be waiting for a drawbridge to close so you can pass over it. But though it may seem that the bridges open at the most inopportune times, there is actually a method to the madness. According to James Jacobsen, from the Florida Department of Transportation’s district structures maintenance office, the current regulation requires the bridges to open “on signal” whenever a vessel
Sgt. Scott Osborne, with the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Department, has been reassigned from his duties at the Siesta Key Substation. His interim replacement will be Deputy Chris Laster, who has already been working as a Mounted Patrol on the Key. Wendy Rose, spokesperson for the Sheriff’s Department, said Sgt.
Bridge schedules for season clarified
requests an opening, except for the twenty minute intervals during times of expected heavy traffic, such as during tourist season. During the nighttime hours the bridge operates “on signal” as needed whenever a vessel requests an opening. The actual regulation reads as follows: “The draw of the Siesta Drive Bridge, mile 71.6 at Sarasota, Florida shall open on signal, except that from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays, the draw need open only on the hour, twenty minutes past the hour and forty minutes past the hour. On weekends and Federal holidays, from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., the draw need open only on the hour, twenty minutes past the hour and forty minutes past the hour.” One special exception to this rule applies to emergency vehicles and vessels who need to pass over or under the bridge. In that case, the bridge tender is contacted and the bridge is kept either closed or opened until emergency personnel pass through.
Gulf homes top $4 million
Two gulf-front Southwest Florida homes recently sold for some big numbers. A Gulf-front Siesta home recently sold for $4.48 million. The Cail Grande Group represented the seller of this one-bedroom home on Siesta Key’s Crescent Beach. Located at 648 Beach Road, with 4,746 square feet under air and 6,478 square feet total, the custom-designed contemporary home has three levels of living space above a four-car garage. It features a rooftop swimming pool overlooking never-ending views of the beach, downtown Sarasota and the Gulf of Mexico. The master suite encompasses the entire third floor of the home. Further south, a gulf-to-bay Casey Key home sold for $5.05 million in February. Realtor Nick Herron of the Herron Group sold the two-story home at 2110 Casey Key Road. The property was listed for $5.9 million, the highest-priced RE/MAX Alliance Group property
currently listed. The property was originally listed at $5.9 million and was the highest RE/MAX Alliance Group property listed. The four-bedroom home is a Gulf-to-bay property includes a guest home, beachside cabana and a pool.
New location coming for “A Taste of Germany”
A Taste of Germany, currently located in Siesta Key Village, will be relocating to the southern part of Siesta Key inside the courtyard of the Southbridge Mall, between Siesta 4-Rent and Davidson’s Drugs, 6575 Midnight Pass Road, units 11-13. The move is expected to take place by the end of May. “This move allows us to create a ‘Bier Garten’ in the courtyard so patrons can enjoy a cold German beer along with our authentic German sandwiches, entrees and desserts,” said owner, Tanja Hofmann. Continued on page 5
www.siestasand.net 941.349.0194
Siesta Key Round-Up “We’ve been wanting to add a Bier Garten and this move provides the room we’ll need to make that happen.” Inside dining will be available as well. Among the authentic German fare, Tanja has been baking rum cakes using Siesta Key Rum. These have become very popular with both locals and visitors.
Stickney Point Bridge project set to begin
A $5.3 million dollar repair project on the Stickney Point Bridge is scheduled to begin in mid-April, with a completion date set for early 2016. Repairs on the almost 50 yearold bridge are expected to include: Concrete repairs throughout, bridge deck, grating and sidewalk, seawall, machinery and electrical systems which operate the bridge, painting and Control House update. The Florida Department of Transportation will host a public presentation about the project on Tuesday, April 7th, from 5-6:30pm at St. Boniface Episcopal Church, 5615 Midnight Pass Road on Siesta Key. You can come anytime during this timeframe to learn more and/or ask questions about it.
April 2015
a total of 23 accidents reported during this span of time. Of all the reported accidents, (one not even in the intersection) four were documented as DUI, seven were documented as fled the scene, and the rest were just careless driving. One must ask if these stats justify spending upwards of $2 million to implement a roundabout for this area? Currently, FDOT is evaluating input collected from a public workshop held on March 10, at St. Boniface Episcopal church. The study should be completed by June 2015. If a roundabout is approved, the construction would begin in the fall of 2016.
Siesta Key Mermaids Beached in the Village
Siesta Key Mermaids will open up a retail location in April at 5053 Ocean Blvd in the Siesta Center located in Siesta Key Village, the former site of World of Women Boutique. Jayde Morgan is the creator of www. SiestaKeyMermaids.com. Siesta Sand wrote an article about the popular business in the August 2014 edition. (http://siestasand. net/personal-profiles-8-14)
Roundabout accident stats
The March Siesta Sand featured an article about a possible roundabout coming to Siesta Key. The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is considering changing the intersection of Midnight Pass Road and Beach Road, citing safety concerns. One of the three options discussed to remedy the problem is a roundabout. The accident report FDOT referenced, which dates back to 2006, was published in our March issue. It showed
Parking tickets and horses
The lack of parking in the Village during March and April has the Sarasota County Sheriff’s deputies writing more tickets on parking violations in Siesta Key Village. The deputies have added Avenida Milano and Avenida Madera to the list; these two streets have the newly-imposed parking bans. The deputies write about 100 tickets a month this time of the year. A parking ticket will cost the violator $25, tickets increase to $74.50 if someone parks in a restricted area like a bike lane. March and now April always bring a challenge for the Sheriff’s Office. Staff is increased via horseback and bike. The influx of spring breakers and high school students make life interesting for a law enforcement officer. March
and early April has the college spring breakers and April has the high school students. During March deputies are busy at night on the beach but more so in the Village. In April the Sheriffs are more concentrated on the beach day and night. The Mounted Patrols will be riding on the beach and through the Village until April 23rd. A Sheriff on horseback can see over crowds to break up problems before they get out of hand. They are especially useful monitoring the large crowds at the Drum Circle. An officer on horseback can handle up to 10 people at once. The horse weighs about 1200 lbs. with the officer sitting 12’ in the air. One last advantage for the Mounted Sheriffs is to help locate lost children in crowds.
Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce still needs volunteers
The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is in need of volunteers in the Visitor Center. As a volunteer you will have fun helping visitors find accommodations, places to shop, eat and attractions. It’s a great place to become active and involved in our Siesta Key community, whether you are a full time or seasonal resident. Volunteers also have the opportunity to attend Chamber networking and special events. Must be familiar with the local area, some computer knowledge, and the ability to handle a busy environment! Please contact Desiree Hanright, Membership Services Manager at 941-349-3800 or by stopping by our office at 5114 Ocean Boulevard.
Celebrates 4th Year Anniversary Abel’s Ice Cream has been open for business four years this month. The Abel’s say it is the quality of the brand of ice cream they sell that is the foundation to the success they’ve enjoyed. The ice cream sold at Abel’s Ice Cream is Florida made and is the recipient of 23 national awards issued by the National Ice Cream Retailer Association since 2009. They offer 38 flavors including a couple of no sugar added ice creams and a couple frozen yogurts. Their menu includes traditional old fashion items such as ice cream sodas, root beer floats, banana splits, shakes, malted milk shakes, sundaes, ice cream cones and cups plus additional specialty items. Their three best sellers are Stellar Coffee (rich coffee ice cream with fudge and mini dark chocolate coffee cups), Coconut Almond Fudge (tropical coconut ice cream with fudge ribbon and whole almonds) and Raspberry Truffle (raspberry ice cream with raspberry ribbon &dark chocolate raspberry cups). The newest
added flavor that is rapidly climbing the best seller chart is Salty Caramel Peanut. Sarasota Magazine awarded Abel’s Spumoni (swirled pistachio, chocolate and cherry ice cream almonds and a special blend of fruits) best specialty flavored ice cream in 2012. The hot fudge topping and the malt for the malted milk shakes are specially made for Abel’s Ice Cream to the quality standards of the good old fashion ice cream parlor days of the 1960’s. Bill and Norma Abel appreciate the support they’ve enjoyed from the local residents and tourists that has enabled them to reach their fourth year anniversary. They are located at 1886 Stickney Point Road and are open 7 days/week. To learn more and get directions go to www.abelsicecream.com or visit Tripadvisor.com enter Sarasota Florida Restaurants to read what customers say about Abel’s Ice Cream. WWW.ABELSICECREAM.COM
Hurricane Rita has a new owner
Last month, Beach Bazaar purchased Hurricane Rita, a gift shop located at 5213 Ocean Blvd., in the Siesta Key Village. Beach Bazaar manager, Wendall Jacobsen, told Siesta Sand to “Watch for new changes to come to the store.”
Ride SCAT Free April 25
Throughout the month of April, Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) will be promoting the regional “Go Green, Save Green campaign.” Continued on page 6
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Siesta Key Isles upset over shortcuts
Some of the Free Ride services are using the Siesta Isles Neighborhood as a shortcut to avoid driving on Beach Road during peak times cutting through from Canal Street and taking Cape Leyte and Shadow Lawn to get to Midnight Pass. Residents are complaining that the vehicles are not complying with posted speed limits in the neighborhood.
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April 2015
Siesta Key Round-Up On April 25, 2015, SCAT will offer free rides on all fixed routes, including SCAT Express Service to encourage the use of public transit and raise awareness of new routes and destinations in Sarasota County. On another note, any passenger 80 plus years can now ride Sarasota County Area Transit (SCAT) for FREE anytime. To validate your age, present a government issued identification card depicting your birth date to the bus operator. For route information, call 941-861-5000
Reiminder: dogs are not allowed on the beaches of Siesta Key
Although dogs are not allowed on the beaches of Siesta Key, some owners either are not aware of this regulation or they choose to ignore it. Since nesting season has begun, the Sheriff’s Office is cracking down on visitors bringing dogs to the beach. Dogs can trample and dig up the nests, along with the problem of waste. Owners that
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net Continued from page 5
don’t pick up after their pets cause increased risk for beach water contamination and beach closure. Taking your buddy for a stroll on the beaches of Siesta Key will cost you $100. There are pet friendly beaches in Sarasota County. Here are three locations you can take your pet. Brohard Paw Beach, 1600 Harbor Drive, Venice, FL 34285. Hours: 24/7, 365 days; however, you will not be able to park from 12 a.m. to 6 a.m., and dogs are allowed on the designated portion of the beach from 7 a.m. to dusk only. The park features an enclosed run for big dogs and one for small dogs, as well as an open beach area were dogs can swim. It has doggie drinking fountains, showers on decks for “dogs only”, fire hydrants and leash posts. Human comforts include drinking fountains, picnic tables and restrooms. For more info, call: 941- 861-9830 Bird Key Park is located on Bird Key at the foot of the Ringling
Causeway Bridge. You and your dog can swim together on the small stretch of beach along Sarasota Bay. The park is open from 6 a.m. until Midnight, year-round and admission is free. Ken Thompson Park is located on Sarasota Bay near the Mote Marine Aquarium and New Pass Fishing Pier. The beach is open from 5 a.m. until 11 p.m. and admission is free. For more info, call: 941-861-5000 or email parksonline@scgov.net
Siesta Fiesta April 11th -12th, 10am to 5pm
The artists will line Ocean Boulevard with their professional display booths while the crafters will display their unique and affordable crafts throughout Siesta Key Village for a sidewalk craft fair. All artists and crafters will be present for the duration of the show, available to discuss their work and inspiration. The event appeals to people of all
ages including serious art buyers looking to add to their collections. With a wide variety of art mediums on display and prices ranging from $25 hand-designed earrings to $30,000 metal sculptures, there is something for everyone. Artists will line Ocean Boulevard with their professional display booths while crafters display their handmade items throughout Siesta Key Village for a sidewalk craft fair. A Green Market will feature exotic plants and orchids, body products, gourmet spices, jams, dips and spreads, and much more. Ocean Boulevard will be closed to vehicular traffic starting at Ocean and Canal and running through to Beach Road. This will allow festival patrons to leisurely stroll through the exhibits as they explore the eclectic array of art and crafts and engage the artists and crafters to gain a better understanding of their work. Howard Alan Events has been producing Siesta Fiesta and many other top-rated shows throughout Florida for decades.
For more information visit www. siestakeyvillage.org
Siesta Key Chamber hosts their 16th Annual Golf Tournament Monday, May 4th
The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce has partnered with The Founders Club to offer an unforgettable private outing. Because the club is typically open to members only, this presents a unique and possibly one of a kind opportunity for Chamber members and guests to play a round at The Founders Club. Sponsorships are available for Foursomes with Dinner, Single Players with Dinner, Dinner only, Green/Tee Sponsorship and Hole Sponsorship. Contact the Siesta Key Chamber directly for more information at www. SiestaKeyChamber.com or 941.349.3800. Local businesses can also provide a donation or silent auction item. All proceeds support our local Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce events.
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April 2015
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News Up & Down the Trail By Roger Drouin & Debbie Flessner Up to the Weather The county’s new Emergency Operations Center—built to withstand storm conditions—has opened, and employees have started moving into the space. Local leaders in March cut the ribbon on the two-story Emergency Operations Center building off Cattlemen Road. The $18.7 million replaces the county’s old EOC headquarters, which was located downtown and was not up to current hurricane codes. The new EOC features a command room that would be activated in the case of a major storm event. During an activation, the new building can house up to 300 people for 72 hours. It has two generators, a well for water and tanks for diesel fuel. The building will also be used when it is not activated. The new EOC houses the Public Safety Communications Center, the county’s call center, and the Sheriff’s Office 911 dispatch center. The Sarasota County Sheriff’s dispatch center employees have not yet moved in, but are expected to by the summer.
No clear winner
Now there are four—City Commission candidates that is. The four candidates came out ahead in their campaigns for two City Commission seats. But since no candidate received a majority of votes, none won outright. Now residents will have to wait until a runoff election May 12 to find out who their next city commissioners are. The four candidates will continue their campaigns until the May runoff election when voters will return to the polls to pick two commissioners. In District 2, incumbent Eileen Normile will face Liz Alpert. In District 3, incumbent Stan Zimmerman will face Shelli Freeland Eddie. Six candidates initially ran for the two seats. Early voting for the runoff will take place Monday, May 4th through Friday, May 9th. Polls on early voting days will be open from 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM at the Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections.
Police camera trouble
Police body cameras are supposed to help keep an eye on the police and those they encounter. But controversy has focused on the Sarasota Police Department’s plan to start using 24 of the body cameras
on officers. The plan hit a delay as city commissioners paused the program amid a lawsuit filed over the standard cost the city charges for releasing public records requests pertaining to the cameras. Following the lawsuit, city officials decided to reduce fees for some public records, offering potential resolution to the suit filed in response to the new police body cameras. Under Chief Bernadette DiPino’s plan, the Sarasota Police Department will be the first in the state of Florida to use Axon Flex Cameras. Unlike typical body cameras, which are clipped onto the officer’s chest, the Axon Flex Camera is magnetic, so it can be attached to an officer’s sunglasses, collar, and a headpiece next to the ear. If the camera program is implemented, one thing is certain: plenty of people in Sarasota and outside the area will be watching to see how it works.
Sand added to Lido Beach The Lido Beach restoration project wrapped up in March, finishing early and on budget. During the past two months, recycled sand was placed on 1.8 miles of shoreline, stretching from Lido Pool to Ted Sperling Park, stabilizing the shoreline and infrastructure. The project replenished sand lost during Tropical Storm Debby in 2012. “Just two months ago, the erosion was so severe that some areas no longer had a beachfront, threatening property and infrastructure,” said City Manager Tom Barwin. Surveys are still being conducted to determine exactly how much sand was deposited onto Lido Beach, but it is expected to be approximately 197,000 cubic yards. A larger U.S. Army Corps of Engineers proposal to take sand from the ebb shoal on the north side of Big Pass and use it to renourish Lido Beach is still in the planning phase. Not everyone supports the plan to dredge from the pass and install groins on Lido, and the proposal has its skeptics. The Army Corps’ project would deliver 1.3 million cubic yards of sand to Lido .
Grand Prix goes grand
The event will feature racing over two days instead of one, with the main race to be aired on the CBS Sports Network. Formerly known as the Sarasota Suncoast Offshore Grand Prix, the renamed event will have racing July 4 and 5 off Lido Beach’s shore. Green Light Media will film the entire race series. Then the Sarasota race will be shown the following weekend in prime time on CBS.
Sarasota schools to hire new teachers
The Sarasota County School District is looking to fill more than 100 teaching positions. During a school board meeting March 17, members OK’d its budget for the fiscal 2015-2016 year. No major changes were made and all current programs are maintained. However the school board wants to hire more teachers. District officials say at the end of this school year they will have about 102 teacher positions open, due to retirements and an estimated increase in student population.
Continued on page 8
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News Up & Down the Trail Board approves trauma center
Some big changes could be coming to Sarasota Memorial Hospital. A proposed level two trauma center at SMH has been moving ahead. The hospital’s Board of Directors voted unanimously Feb. 15, to approve the $3.6 million trauma center. The trauma center was approved by the board’s Mission and Planning Committee previously, and medical staff leaders have also supported the trauma center. Pending state approval, the center could be operational in May. According to an email update from County Administrator Tom Harmer, around May 1 the state is expected to make a decision on whether to approve the hospital’s application for a trauma center. “The Trauma II Center will be immediately operational upon designation,” Harmer wrote to commissioners. “A successful trauma drill was held last week and was a complete success. Three new trauma surgeons have been hired and the OR’s and ER’s have been outfitted to handle it.” The center will also get upgraded equipment and two designated ER rooms for trauma victims. The specialized trauma team will have staff available 24 hours a day.
Preliminary state funding
Several local organizations could receive a financial boost from the state, according to preliminary fiscal year 2015-2016 budget allocations released in March. New College of Florida, the South Florida Museum in Bradenton, and Marie Selby Botanical Gardens are among the local institutions slated to receive extra funding in preliminary state budget allocations released in March. According to the Governor Rick Scott’s “Keep Florida Working” website, the state’s general revenue funds available for the FY 2015-2016 budget year increased $1.1 billion from the previous fiscal year, a 4 percent increase. This increase is mostly attributable to increased sales tax collection.
Unemployment rate up slightly
The jobless rate in Manatee, Sarasota and Charlotte counties increased to 5.7 percent in January. The 5.7 percent collective rate for the region compared with 5.1 percent
Continued from page 7
in December and 6.4 percent in January 2014, according to the state jobs report released in March. The uptick in unemployment is likely due to the trimming of holiday-season positions. But it could also be due to some good news as an improving employment market has more people looking for work.
Strip mall sells
One of the larger and older strip malls on the South Trail sold recently for $1.9 million. Mario Comparetto LLC sold the 8,506-square foot shopping center to Sarasota-based Sandrala Storage Associates LLC Feb. 27. Comparetto previously purchased the center for $150,000 in 1978. The center, constructed in 1956 and located at 4511 S Tamiami Trail, is just north of The Landings. While among the older retail buildings in the area, in terms of building space the property is also among the largest in the 34231 zip code.
New solid waste manager
Sarasota County’s Solid Waste Division will have a new leader, as Larry Alexander has been promoted to serve as the division’s manager. Alexander has nearly 28 years of experience in waste management services and has been serving Sarasota County since 2004 as solid waste manager. The Syracuse, N.Y., native has lived in Florida since 1995, and has extensive experience in both the public and private sectors. Since working for Sarasota County, Alexander has been responsible for overseeing a $24 million operating budget, managing all solid waste collections programs, and serving 153,000 residential and commercial customers. “This is the pinnacle of my career,” Alexander said. “I understand the importance of customers and the need to provide a high level of service. I want to make sure they’re getting the service they’re paying for.” Alexander replaces outgoing Solid Waste Director Gary Bennett, who is retiring after working 27 years for Sarasota County.
Myakka Pines gator
Indiana native and Englewood snowbird Dick Huber couldn’t believe his eyes. While playing a round of golf with his friend Jerry Burton at the Myakka Pines Golf Club’s White Nine course, he approached the seventh green so he could putt his ball into the cup. Just
then, an alligator which some have estimated to be at least 11 feet-long, came up onto the green from an adjacent pond and lay down beside the pin, before sliding into a pond on the other side. While Huber and Burton waited for the monstrous crocodilian to move on, they snapped cell phone pictures of it, which ended up on international news sites, due to the alligator’s size and the seemingly casual way it sauntered across the course. According to locals and regulars at the golf club, “George” as he is known, is a longtime resident of the ponds at Myakka Pines, which gives a whole new meaning to the term “water hazard.”
Huge county development project moves forward
While detractors worry that Sarasota County’s infrastructure may not be able to handle the proposed Village on the Trail project on S.R. 681 in Nokomis, construction has already begun on the entry and access points of the 220-acres. Sarasota developer Taylor Morrison’s planned project will include 1,800 homes, 60 shops and a number of professional offices on the southwestern end of the I-75 to US41 corridor. The Village on the Trail project was originally launched in 2005 by thenproperty owner Henry Rodriguez. After he put his European-style village concept on hold during the economic recession in 2008, the land sat undeveloped for another five years, until Rodriguez sold it to Vott Partners of Bradenton. Later, Taylor Morrison bought the land, plus an Osprey mobile home park, for $19 million. The developer’s plans will also include three lakes and three wetlands areas.
Public Meeting Announcement
Sarasota County is hosting a public meeting regarding the future of the parks system in Sarasota County. The County wants your input as they develop a master plan for parks, preserves and recreation in conjunction with the cities which will become the road map for parks and natural lands in Sarasota County. The meeting will take place on Wednesday, April 8, from 6-7:30 p.m., at the Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave. For more information, call 941-861-5000.
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Bluegrass Picnic 2015 A light Gulf breeze and the unique sounds of mandolins, guitars and fiddles filled the air at this years 13th Annual Bluegrass
April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC
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Story and photos by Trebor Britt
Picnic under the Turtle Beach Pavilion on Siesta Key. This years event featured the Tonga Street Bluegrass group, Siesta Key
Kathy and Joe Russo, on vacation from Plymouth MA, enjoying lunch at their first Bluegrass picnic. They learned about it by reading the “Siesta Sand” Newspaper.
Bluegrass band, a Florida Jam Band and an open stage jam. Benny Kimsey, a local ERA Waterside Realtor on Siesta Key,
has organized and entertained at the event since 2002. Every year, hundreds enjoy the unique bluegrass music and
Gary Schumer of Sarasota playing harmonica with the Tonga Street Bluegrass group. Gary has been with the group for about 4 years.
a complimentary lunch while supporting the American Red Cross hurricane relief fund.
Darlene Tolbert enjoying the Bluegrass Picnic with the youngest attendee, her 4-month old grandson, Kamden Manley. Kamden’s grandpa played the bass for the opening group.
10 SIESTA SAND
April 2015
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Pearls and Perils Confronting Birds on Siesta Key Beach* By Allan Worms, Ph.D., Wildlife Biologist (retired) Beautiful Siesta Key Beach, lauded for its brilliant white sand and swimmer friendly shoreline - - is also exceptional for its outstanding bird life. One of its most beautiful birds is the very small Snowy Plover hen seen nesting below.
A nesting Snowy Plover hen. Photo by Claire Herzog
Snowy Plovers blend perfectly into the brilliant white sand and are often not seen until they move, scurrying across the beach in a continuing effort to find food (mostly insects) or a mate. The Snowy Plover seen below is a male resting among native beach vegetation. Note how its protective coloration -- white feathers with small dark and black markings -might very well not be seen until you look carefully.
A male Snowy Plover almost unseen in plain sight. Photo by Claire Herzog.
This very small, rare, beach dwelling bird faces many perils, natural predators and even your family dog or cat, particularly during nesting. The enlarged photo below shows a Snowy Plover egg that has been attacked, with its shell breached and the contents being consumed by fire ants.
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Fire Ants Attacking a Snowy Plover Egg Photo by Claire Herzog
Once numerous, now only a few more than 200 nesting pairs of Snowy Plovers can still be found in all of Florida. And, according to Ms. Jeanne Dubi, President of Sarasota Audubon Society, the population is still declining. Snowy Plovers mate on Siesta Key Beach and hatch small eggs and attempt to raise their thumbsized chicks to flight stage. The chicks, upon flying, are called fledglings. But until the chicks fledge, the nesting hen, her mate and the chicks endure a frightful array of perils! Their very small size and protective coloration support an amazing ability to blend into Siesta Key’s brilliantly white beach background when they are still. When nesting, the hen patiently sits her nest, up to 3 or 4 weeks, while the eggs incubate. During this time she may be preyed upon by an array of other animals including snakes, raccoons, the occasional bobcat, feral or stray household cats, dogs and more. Frequently, a hen is flushed off her nest by people. When humans pass too near the nest, accidentally or out of curiosity, the hen may flee. Even unintended occasional flushing may occur one time too often and already, during this spring 2015 nesting season, a snowy plover hen was frightened from her nest by people who entered a protected area. Beach stewards found tracks of humans who ignored the Fish and Wildlife protective signing and passed near the nest. It is not known if she abandoned the nest for that reason or if some other animal was the cause. One of the smartest and most successful predators of bird nests are crows. Crows come to the beach because they are smart and they are opportunists. Beach users, unthinkingly, support this predator’s wily ways. Human food should never be left open or otherwise available to attract crows, gulls or other scavengers -- both to avoid disease to you or to attract such predators to the beach. Another predator that is not typically invited by human carelessness, but which is often opportunistic is the Black-crowned Night-Heron seen below. The Black-crowned Night-Heron and, also the Yellow-crowned Night Heron are often nocturnal, but may
be seen prowling the edges of the dunes or a tidal pool searching for food.
A Black-crowned Night Heron Photo by Claire Herzog
While many birds feed along the shoreline and the edges of fresh or saltwater pools for aquatic organisms, another bird’s chick may be easy prey. For an example see below.
Least Tern Chicks and Adult Photo by Claire Herzog
These two fuzzy little Least Tern chicks are out in the open! But they have a little advantage over Snowy Plovers. First, they grow rapidly because they are fed small fish by the adult Least Terns. A better diet. No bugs for least terns! Here these two chicks are being encouraged by an adult -- probably to move to a better hiding place. Furthermore, if a predator arrives the adult Least Terns are very pugnacious! They will attack if anything gets too close to the chicks. Please notice the sturdy beak on the adult Least Tern. Only my Tilley hat kept me from bleeding when I mistakenly got too close one time. Still the best protection lies in our respect for good beach management and our caring. Learn about the birds, keep dogs off the beach, (we all love dogs, but they, as well as other four-legged predators, will flush a nesting bird permanently.) Don’t leave food scraps lying about to attract crows, gulls and other un-natural predators. Enjoy your beautiful beach and be good stewards. *Pearls and Perils title suggested by Mr. Dan Olson.
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Off Key
April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 11
By Robert Frederickson
|From Modesty Lost to Climbing the Mountain If Pride Leadeth the Fall, Look out Below...
Have you seen the latest commercial airing locally for Doctor Alfred O. Bonati MD, of the Bonati Institute? The good doctor makes Kanye West look positively humble by comparison. The commercial’s voice over tells us: “using his genius, Bonati invented the precise tools necessary to minimize scarring, anesthesia and recovery time.” Really? “Using his genius?” It may be true, but who talks about themselves like that? Declaring oneself to be a genius would not seem to be the most effective means of impressing upon others that you actually are one.
If You Build it, They Will Come?
At a final cost north of $12.5 million (original estimates were around $7.5 million), the City’s new State Street parking garage – built as part of its grand bargain with the developers of the Pineapple Square project – is nearing completion. The question now is whether the promised retail and entertainment revitalization of the area will continue apace. The project has been in the work s f o r n e a r l y a d e c a d e , conceived as a way to bring and keep energy downtown in the face of competition from Lakewood Ranch and suburban projects like the UTC Mall on University Parkway, which was itself in the
planning stages in 2005 when discussions about Pineapple Square first surfaced. Since then, the $350 million UTC project has been completed, while Pineapple Square’s promise is yet to be fully realized. Still, the city will soon have a shiny new parking garage to show for its efforts, even if its final price tag is some $5-million more than originally budgeted. Rather than letting the developer handle the parking garage project as originally proposed, the city took the effort on itself and as a result now has to absorb the cost overruns that follow city managed projects like this as surely as night follows day...(think lift station 87).
be disheartening. Oh well. But there’s always the Tibbal miniature circus replica at the Circus Museum on the Ringling estate for future generations to get a glimpse of what the circus once was. But “Circus” and “Museum” don’t strike me as two words that should ever go together.
Bumper Sticker of the Day
Unemployed Elephants
A Circus without elephants? John Ringling must be spinning like a trapeze artist in his grave. But that’s the word from Feld entertainment, owners of The Greatest Show on Earth. Apparently bowing to pressure from animal rights groups like PETA, Feld announced recently the magnificent creatures will be phased out of the Ringling Circus shows over the next several years. Can the Lions and tigers and bears (and their trainers) be far behind? Soon the gentrification of the traditional circus will be complete and we’ll be left with something entirely different...Call it “Circus Light,” or “The Formerly Greatest Show on Earth,” but for generations of circus families who have made this area their home, the news must
While the above news item on elephants being phased out by Ringling was likely cause for celebration by PETA and its sympathizers, their reaction to a bumper sticker seen recently on Bee Ridge Road would probably be somewhat less gleeful. It read “Vegetarian: Ancient Indian Word for Lousy Hunter.”
Not So Free Speech
If you really want to know what a politician believes pay attention to what they don’t say. On one side of the political spectrum, President Obama has apparently stricken the phrase “Islamic Terrorism” from the lexicon of his administration to the point where it’s downright laughable to see the contortions his spokes people bend themselves into to avoid any collision with the phrase. And on the right, governor Scott has gone to similar extremes to banish the phrase “climate change” from the public square. The Orwellian danger of such behavior though is that after a time, the words spoken by these folks become meaningless, to the point where if they ever do have anything important to say, no one will be listening.
Quote of the Day
“The man on top of the mountain didn’t fall there.” Vince Lombardi.
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Sheriff’s Report
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February 20- March 18, 2015
There were a total of 26 crimes reported on the Key from 2/20-3/18/15
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2/20/15 3/10/15 PUBLIC BEACH THEFT DUI with Property Grand Theft 9 1 6 Damage Siesta Public Beach ASSAULT 1 Midnight Pass/ Stickney A victim reported that THE VILLAGE Pt Rd she left her tan colored 4 3 DUI 1 A woman rear-ended backpack on the beach 2 another vehicle slowing for a while she went jet skiing DRUG ALCHOHOL 2 11 VIOLATION red light. An officer met with and parasailing. When she the defendant to conduct returned, about 2 hours ELSEWHERE ROBBERY 2 ON THE KEY a crash investigation and later, she discovered that 4 noted multiple indicators her backpack was missing. 3 3 of impairment. Officers then The pack was described started a DUI investigation. as having a map over the The woman had bloodshot eyes, the door frame of her rear sliding entire exterior. The backpack a distinct odor of alcohol coming doors. The locking mechanism had contained her iphone, ipod mini, from her breath and slurred several pieces of metal broken off. car keys, makeup and Moroccan speech. Based on the woman’s Officers processed the scene for oil. The total value of the contents poor performance on field sobriety latent fingerprints and developed was estimated at $481. There is no exercises, and the officer’s training one print from the inside of the suspect information at this time. and experience in the detection of back sliding glass door. The print impaired drivers, she was placed was submitted for evaluation. 3/11/15 under arrest for DUI. Burglary 3/5/15 Battery Avenida Messina Calle Menorca/Canal Rd 3/4/15 Burglary A man called the sheriff’s office 100 Block Whispering Sands A man was found walking to report an unknown subject A woman reported her home down Canal Rd with a bloody nose had stolen his bicycle from his was burglarized. She could not and swollen eye. Officers made residence. The bike was parked remember if she had locked her contact with the victim who was under the carport and was left front and back doors when she intoxicated and uncooperative unlocked when it was taken. The left for the afternoon. The woman with deputies. He claimed that Newport bike with black frames informed the officer that she had a group of Mennonites punched and blue rims was valued at $619. noticed several items missing from him but that he wanted no law 3/14/15 a bedroom closet. She advised she enforcement action taken. The Burglary-Vehicle had found a closet door that she victim stated he just wanted to 6000 Block Midnight Pass Rd never uses, left open. The woman walk away and go to sleep under a had left her home for the afternoon, bridge. Rescue responded, checked An employee of a south Siesta returned and then left again to visit out the victim, and stated that the Bar reported a vehicle burglary. a neighbor for about 10 minutes. man had no broken bones and The woman stated that while her She could not be sure if the burglary was medically clear. The victim, car was parked in the rear lot of took place the first or second although intoxicated, was coherent the business, someone smashed out time she was away. The items and repeatedly stated that he her passenger side window and missing include jewelry, a wallet just wanted to leave. Without stole her purse from the passenger and some cash. A neighborhood cooperation from the victim, seat. She believes the burglary took canvas yielded negative results. officers recommended that the place between 2 and 3am. The grey No evidence of forced entry was case be considered closed. purse contained a checkbook and found but a fingerprint was lifted a Lowes gift card. The woman 3/8/15 Petit Theft and submitted for evaluation. advised that to have the window 400 Block Beach Rd Security cameras on the property replaced would cost her $250. were in operation at the time and A woman contacted the sheriff’s the footage will be examined. office to report that an unknown 3/15/15 person stole her bikes from Siesta Petit Theft 3/4/15 Burglary Beach Access #7. She noted that Siesta Public Beach 100 Block Whispering Sands the bikes were left unsecured A man reported someone had W h i l e c o n d u c t i n g a and unattended while she was stolen his personal items while he neighborhood canvass in reference on the beach that afternoon. The was at the beach. The victim was to the above burglary, officers complainant has no suspect or at the beach for approximately 4 made contact with another woman witness information at this time. hours. During that time, someone who had not yet discovered that She did not have serial information stole his shoes, wallet and drivers a burglary had occurred at her for either bike. She was informed license (which was inside his residence. She later realized that without that information, wallet) from on top of his beach that while she was gone that the sheriff’s office couldn’t enter chair. The items were not covered afternoon, several jewelry items her bike into the National Crime up by any clothing or a beach towel were taken from her bedroom. Information Center database as when they were taken. The victim Officers checked her residence and stolen. She was urged to research the never saw anyone suspicious found evidence of pry marks on matter and forward any additional hanging around his chair. information to the department.
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April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 13
Turtle Beach Campground Photos by Trebor Britt
Barricades mark the site of an accident at the Turtle Beach Campground on Siesta Key that occurred around 2:30am in early March. The peaceful early morning hours of the campground were interrupted by the scary sounds of a vehicle colliding with a camper parked on this site near the entrance. The driver of the vehicle and one of the two sleeping campers where taken to the hospital. The other camper was treated at the scene with minor injuries.
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Financial Focus
|Control Your Emotions in Volatile Markets For the past few years, the stock market has moved up fairly steadily, with no major “corrections.” But thus far in 2015, we’ve already seen periods of volatility — enough, in fact, to make some investors jittery. Nervous investors may be more prone to make decisions based on short-term market movements — so how can you stay calm? First of all, when evaluating your investment decisions, stay focused on those factors that have historically driven stock prices. The U.S. economy is growing at a reasonably good pace, and corporate earnings remain fairly strong. Plus, stocks may not be as undervalued as they were a few years ago — as measured by the price-to-earnings ratio (P/E) — but they still aren’t overly expensive, either. Things can change, of course, but when market volatility seems to be primarily caused by short-term events, such as plunging oil prices, it’s important to look beyond the headlines to these less glamorous, but probably more important, fundamentals of good investing. By doing so, you can help avoid making fear-driven investment choices. What else can you do to help ensure that you don’t let feelings of anxiety influence your investment moves? For one thing, evaluate your investment mix. If you own too many stocks and stock-based vehicles, you could take a big hit if stock prices fall sharply during periods of volatility. Historically, however, bond prices have typically increased when stock
prices fell — although, of course, there are no guarantees. So, if your portfolio consists of stocks and bonds, you are better positioned to weather the harshest effects of market turbulence. To further prepare yourself for downturns, you may also want to diversify your fixed-income holdings to include investments such as U.S. Treasury bills, certificates of deposit (CDs) and municipal bonds. The percentages of each type of investment within your portfolio should be based on your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon. Finally, you can help yourself maintain an even-keeled approach to investing by always looking for quality. Typically, higher quality investments fare better during market declines and recover more quickly when the markets rebound. How can you judge whether a particular investment is of good “quality“? A long-term track record is useful to study. It’s certainly true that, as you have no doubt heard, “past performance is no guarantee of future results,” but it’s nonetheless valuable to know how a particular stock, for example, has performed in various economic environments. If it seems to have done well relative to others in its industry and over long periods of time, that may give you a good idea of its quality. It’s never easy to take all the emotions out of investing, especially during periods of market volatility. After all, you count on your investments to help provide you with the type
of future you’ve envisioned. But by focusing on the fundamentals, putting together an appropriate investment mix and constantly looking for quality, you can help “de-stress” yourself — and, as the American poet, novelist and historian J.G. Holland once said, “Calmness is the cradle of power.” This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor. Edward Jones, its employees and financial advisors cannot provide tax or legal advice. You should consult your attorney or qualified tax advisor regarding your situation.
Joe St Onge Jr, 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
941.923.0000 IN THE LANDINGS PLAZA 4862 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231
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Aspiring Model Visits Siesta Beach Story and photos by Trebor Britt One of the new, up-and-coming and fresh faces in modeling is Madi of Dublin, Ohio. With only a year of modeling behind her, her maturity and passion for the
industry really shows through. Madi related, “Right now my aspirations in life are to be happy and make others happy. Also, I hope to travel the world.” She’s
Madi
been cheerleading competitively for four years and also enjoys yoga, drawing, painting and spending time with her friends and family. While here, Madi’s become quite fond of the powdery white sand and clear blue water of Siesta Beach, just recognized as the No.1 beach in the United States.
1922 BAY ROAD, SARASOTA | 941.926.3335 CARATSFINEJEWELRYANDWATCHES.COM
Lotus Boutique, Downtown’s iconic women’s fashion boutique, opens second location in Siesta Key Village Rejoice Siesta Key ladies, now when you’re in the mood for a great new dress, jeans, jewelry, home accessories or your basic go to pieces just park free in the Davidson’s Plaza and enjoy some relaxing retail therapy! Founder Wendy Getchell and business partner Harmoni Bens make it easy to look great, and offer their expert styling advice along with their incredible selection of current fashions. The boutique offers favorite designers like James Perse, Vince, Current Elliot, Citizens of Humanity, Mara Hoffman, Lauren Moshi, Michael Stars, Frank & Eileen and many more. The jewelry selection is hard to resist, with gorgeous pieces from Chan Luu, Vanessa Mooney, Elizabeth & James, and Alkemie. Shoes from Vince, Calleen Cordero and Joie complete your head to toe look. “We chose Siesta Key Village because we have so many seasonal and full time residents that have been shopping with us
for years. We love that we can offer free parking and make it easier for our clients to pop in more often” says Getchell. According
to Bens, they have expanded their selection of designers at the Siesta Key boutique and have different items from the Downtown store. The vibe of the shop is laid back and beachy, but with a contemporary flair. In addition to their great fashion and accessories, the Siesta Key Lotus boutique carries home accessories and candles, featuring Jonathan Adler Home.
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Off Islands What’s in a name?
Longboat Key is home to a number of creatures, one is both beautiful and bothersome. The male is called a peacock and the female a peahen. More appropriate is the term for both – peafowl – as a good percentage of Longboat Key residents who like to sleep late feel they are foul indeed. The loud call of the male is said to increase in intensity as the Monsoon season begins (they originally hale from the Indian subcontinent: India, Sri Lanka and Pakistan) but it may be that the mating season begins at that time of year as well. For those that do not consider the peacock’s beautiful plumage reason enough for their presence on the Key, perhaps their call might be useful as an early warning device heralding the start of hurricane season. More research may be needed on that point. In any case, whether the loud raucous call of the male is directly or indirectly related to mating, the end result is an ever-increasing population on the Key. James Braha, a LBK resident, has the task of thinning the “Pride of Peacocks” down to a manageable number. He is not happy with them or with the job. He’s said, “There’s no way I would take the job again.” It is not just their loud call that is bothersome, but they are indeed foul, doing their business “in everyone’s driveway”. Braha’s current estimate of peafowl in LBK Village is 85 – 100. As the estimate in 2011 was only 50 and they’ve been trapping them every year, they are indeed prolific. While Braha is tired of catching
April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 15
By Rodger Skidmore them (and of paying for their removal with LBK money) Gene Jaleski, a commission candidate, reminded Mayor Jim Brown that the town code mandates that the peacock population be reduced to 12. Twelve peacocks with no peahens would doom the entire population to long-term extinction by attrition. Jaleski also contacted Town Manager Dave Bullock, urging him to get the number down to the required number. His stated reason for pushing for the reduction is that the birds attract unwanted tourists who slow traffic. The birds wandering around the streets of the Village probably slow traffic on their own as well. The key to reducing the peafowl in LBK Village might be to find a neighboring area that wants tourists and get them to trap and remove the offending fowl, without having to make a payment. A win-win for both areas.
A walk in the park
Or, to be more exact, a walk from the park-ing place. Everyone wants to park but no one wants to walk, yet our doctors tell us to walk more if we want to live longer - sounds like a real disconnect. The greatest disconnect may be those of us who drive to the mall, circle for 20 minutes looking for the closest parking space, out of frustration park in the nearest handicap space, go into the mall and then walk around inside for the exercise. Yes, people do that. Another kind of parking is about those of us that drive from the mainland, over multiple
Snapshots of Visitors
Mike and Linda Lang from Muskego, WI., came to visit friends and enjoy Sunday’s Drum Circle. They’ve been coming down to Florida for the past 20+ years and just closed on a house in Cape Coral. Congratulations! Photo by Emy Stein
bridges, to shop at The Shoppes at St. Armands Circle. The circle is a place that, after parking, people stroll about, whether in the cool of the evening or the heat of the day, pleasantly chatting with friends and glancing in all the shop windows (sometimes even, to the consternation of the sales clerks, entering the stores and buying something). Here again, there is a bit of grumbling about having to walk some distance before being able to walk for pleasure. But the long walks have their benefits. It seems there is some unwritten law that everyone who walks around the circle must buy an ice cream cone. If parking were too close it would mean finishing the cone while driving home and having really sticky seat covers. Benefits abound. The real trouble with parking at St. Armands is twofold. The first is the problem that every clot of stores in Sarasota endures – the employees of the stores park where the customers would like to park. The second is more specific to St. Armands. Andrew Georgiadis of the Urban Design Studio has shown that 200 additional parking spaces could be added to the musical chairs parking parade if parking were to be allowed along John Ringling Boulevard out to the bridge leading to Coon Key. But then the residents of the Harbour West condos on Coon Key complained that they might be able to see the cars parked in front of their buildings, even though no one had proposed extending parking that far east. They were so vociferous that the Urban Design Studio backtracked, saying they might propose planting trees to hide the cars that wouldn’t be there. The alternative to parking along the boulevard would be to build a parking garage on North Adams Street, closer to the circle. City Parking Manager Mark Lyons estimated that the garage would cost about $8.5 million. So a realistic figure might be in the range of $10-12 million (these estimates are based on the assumption that taxpayers might be up-in-arms if they knew what the actual costs might be, once slippage is factored into the final figures). Question: if the name of the saint was Armand, why isn’t there an apostrophe in St. Armands Circle?
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Food and Wine Pairings By Maureen Rooney, Siesta Key Wines & Gifts Springtime Wines
Leaving a 401(k) with a previous employer could mean leaving it alone with no one to watch over it. At Edward Jones, we can explain options for your 401(k) and help you select the one thats best for you. If you’d like to roll it over to an Edward Jones Individual Retirement Account But the April 15TH Deadline for IRA Contributions Isn’t. (IRA), we can help you do it without You have only so many years to prepare for retirement. That’s why contributingAnd to your paying taxes or penalties. you Individual Retirement Account (IRA) is so important. Fortunately, you still have time to is can feel confident that someone maximize your 2014 IRA contribution before thelooking April 15THout deadline. for you and your 401(k).
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By contributing now, your retirement savings can have more opportunity to grow. Even if To find why Jones it makes you already have an IRA elsewhere, it’s easy to transfer it toout an Edward IRA andsense begin receiving the face-to-face guidance you deserve.to talk with Edward Jones ________________________________________________________ about your 401(k) options, call To learn more about the advantages of an Edward IRA, or visit your localJones financial advisor today. call or visit today.
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The Landings 4800 S. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota, FL 34231 941-923-9080 www.edwardjones.com Member SIPC
MAKING SENSE OF INVESTING
Spring is an amazing time of year. Bringing joy to those of us that are weary from a long winter and giving us hope of beautiful days ahead. We’re also lucky to be blessed with fresh wines from the previous harvest that are just now ready to enjoy. Sauvignon Blanc has recently become a much more favored wine by consumers than the previously popular chardonnay. Well that’s great because the new Sauvignon Blancs have arrived and they are crisp and clean with lots of grapefruit and pear flavors. The most flavorful Sauvignon Blancs with big bursts fresh fruits are found in New Zealand. Our recommendation for this spring is Lawson`s Dry Hills Sauvignon Blanc from Marlboro. This is a well balanced wine with more citrusy notes than grassy and pairs exceptionally well with scallops, oysters and shellfish. Add a little to your saucepan and let the seafood absorb the flavors. Some people have a difficult
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time finding their perfect wine: Chardonnay too dry, Riesling too sweet, Sauvignon Blanc too tart. Why not try something a bit more interesting like Vouvray? Domaine Sylvain Gaudron is a remarkable wine for springtime menu planning. It is a demi-sec, slightly sweet, lightly floral with stone fruit undertones. Grown on the left bank of the Loire in France, the limestone in the soil gives the wine a soft minerality that complements and offsets the sweetness. Vouray is 100% pure Chenin Blanc and it’s sweetness it’s determined by the amount of sunshine the grapes are exposed to in August, near the end of their growing season. More sunshine produces a sweeter grape. Of course, not all Vouvrays, or Chenin Blancs, are demi -sec. There are many very dry Chenin Blancs produced not only in Loire, but in other parts of the world, such as South Africa. However, the French grape, Vouray, pairs well with stronger fish as well as chicken or fruit salads with goat cheese. It is also perfect for Asian dishes with a sweet and sour flair. Rose’ wines from France are always a big hit in the Spring. While there are many styles of Rose’s, Provence produces the best for early Spring. Les Agaves is a fresh Cotes de Rhone 2015 and it’s beaming with fresh strawberry and floral notes. It’s pale pinky salmon color is typical of Rose’s from Provence as is it’s dry acidic texture. Made of Cinsault, Grenache and Syrah, this Cotes de Provence Rose is crisp and delicate which is much different than Rose’s from Italy or Spain which are darker in color and
richer in flavor and usually made of Montepulciano and Grenache, respectively. Rose’s offer a wide range of flavor and complexity and are definitely worth exploring. Fortunately, Americans finally are becoming more educated on Rose’s and realizing that these extremely dry wines are a warm weather alternative to red wine. Serve Rose’s with grilled chicken salad, salmon, spring mix veggies, grilled steak salad and an array of fresh cheese. Just imagine lunch in the garden; I can already feel the warm breezes blowing on a Sunday afternoon. Bring me my wine and cheese! Wines available at Siesta Key Wines & Gifts. Shipping available. Send us your ideas and recipes for us to share. Remember, if you’re ever in our area, stop in for a sample at Siesta Key Wines in the Village or email us at drinkwine@ siestakeywines.com. CHEERS! 5138C Ocean Blvd., 941-552-9105
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April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 17
VILLAGE MAP pgs 18 - 19
ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 34
GULF GATE SHOPS pg 27
CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 20
LOCAL MAPS INSIDE
LIVE MUSIC PAGE 22
The Publication with “Key” Information | www.SiestaSand.net | 941.349.0194
Snapshots of Visitors
Siesta Key Drum Circle
Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 1
3
Every Sunday is a perfect time to come to the Key for some wonderful entertainment. I’m talking about the Siesta Key Drum Circle that takes place each Sunday starting about an hour before sunset and lasting until about 10 p.m. The gathering meets up just south of the main pavilion just follow your ears and watch for the swelling crowd. Please note the following rules of etiquette that need to be observed at the Drum Circle so that all can enjoy the experience: the inside of the drum circle is for participants only, not for people standing around.
Feel free to enter the circle, take a picture and dance, but always keep moving. Never play someone’s drum without getting clearance from the owner. Always ask before borrowing other people’s property, especially hula hoops. Flash photography and bright video lights are distracting, so photograph during daylight or use a night vision camera. And finally, please do not drink alcohol or smoke inside the circle and respect our beach by placing all trash in the appropriate receptacles. Photo by Emy Stein.
2
4
1: Cheri, Betsy age 8, Henry age 6, Hank from Sarasota. 2: Ethan from TN. 3: Ryan, Leah & Alivia age 3 from Michigan. 4: Lauren & Chris from Jacksonville.
Before you leave Sarasota, you must try this one! As seen on the Food Network Guy Fieri’s “Diner’s, Drive-In’s and Dive’s” show. The TurDucKen “One big bird” Boneless chicken stuffed in a boneless duck stuffed in a boneless turkey with a variety of great seasonings. Alpine Steakhouse just off of Siesta Key located between the bridges at 4520 S. Tamiami Trail. 941-922-3797
Lunch Turducken Sandwich $8.95 and Dinner Turducken $18.95 w/mashed Potatoes, stuffing, gravy and cranberry sauce
18 SIESTA SAND
April 2015
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net
Village Facelift - One Mural at a Time
The newest mural to grace the walls of a Siesta Key Village business is located on the front entrance of Siesta Key University, 5263 Ocean Blvd., near Blasé Café. SKU owner Lori Dean, thought it would be very cool to welcome visitors with a retro style postcard using illustrated letters, so enlisted the help of local artist, Shawn McLoughlin, aka: Siesta Shawn. The finished mural, measuring 4′ x 7′, took 3 days to complete. For additional info see http://siestashawn.com/siesta-key-university-mural/. Quality reproductions will be available at SKU as well as other locations in the Village.
Map B #42
ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Beach Resort ........................Map-A #38A ART GALLERY / STUDIO Calle Studios.........................................Map-B #32 Siesta Key Art Gallery........................Map-D #11 ATM / BANKS PNC ATM............................................. Map-C #61 Martin Funding......................................Map-E #1 Sun Trust Bank & ATM.........................Map-E #4 BAKERY A Taste of Germany............................Map-C #53 Meany’s Mini Donuts......................... Map-C #24 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Blase Café.............................................Map-A #38 Blu Que Island Grill..........................Map-C #57 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar................Map-B #42-43 Gilligan’s...............................................Map-B #33 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 BOOK STORES Used Book Heaven...............................Map-B #48 COFFEE SHOPS Lelu’s Coffee Lounge...........................Map-B #31 The Local Bean................................... Map-D #62 DRUG & HARDWARE Davidson’s Drugs................................Map-D #65 Village Hardware................................ Map-C #26 FASHION & ACCESSORIES Aqua Beachwear................................ Map-D #12 Beach Bazaar & Swin Shack........... Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear.................................. Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More.........Map-D #64 Foxy Lady Fashions........................... Map-A #40 Gidget’s Coastal Provisions.............Map-B #44 Island Cotton Company.....................Map-C #29 Island Boutique...................................Map-C #50 Island Style...........................................Map-C #53 Lotus Boutique..................................Map-D #66 Reel Hobby.......................................... Map-D #10 Siesta Key Mermaids........................... Map-D #9 Siesta T’s............................................... Map-B #30 Sun Glass Outlet..................................Map-C #24 GAS STATION Circle K Store......................................... Map-E #6 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Beach Bazaar...................................... Map-C #28 Created Gems......................................Map-C #51 Hurricane Rita’s Gifts.........................Map-C #51 Mount-N-Repair.................................. Map-B #48 Sea Pleasures & Treasures...................Map-C #2 Siesta Key Bead Shack....................... Map-A #36 Siesta Key’psakes................................ Map-B #29 Siesta Key Outfitters.........................Map-D #11 Siesta Key University.......................... Map-B #36 HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ................ Map-D #10 Siesta Key Fitness..............................Map-B #73 Studio Rubylakes................................ Map-B #49 ICE CREAM/TREATS Big Olaf Creamery..............................Map-C #52 Ciao Gelato...........................................Map-C #50 Siesta Key Sweet Shop......................... Map-D #9 SubZero Ice Cream Yogurt............... Map-D #16 Sunni Bunni Frozen Yogurt...............Map-C #53 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson Drugs................................. Map-D #65 Internet Cafe......................................... Map-D #9 Lelu Coffee Lounge............................. Map-B #31 The Local Bean.................................... Map-D #62 Map C #61
JEWELRY Created Gems......................................Map-C #51 Michael & Co. Jewelers...................... Map-B #29 Mount -N- Repair Jewelers................ Map-B #48
Bob Stein Takes “Florida Ca Dressed in shorts, a colorful shirt, and sandals, Bob Stein is easily mistaken for a wayward snowbird or tourist. Some that attended the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Awards Ceremony at TPC Prestancia can be excused if they jumped to that conclusion when he showed up in his trademark “Florida casual” attire. But once the assembled chamber members recognized him they understood. That’s just Bob. The energetic publisher of the Siesta Sand left the buttoned down corporate world years ago. He’s living on “island time” now, even if there seldom seems to be enough of it to get to everything he wants to each day. Even at the awards dinner he was still on the job, taking pictures, talking to friends, looking for news leads for the next edition of one of the four newspapers he publishes with his wife and business partner Emy. His eyes light up when talking about the latest happenings on the island. “Somebody said they saw a crocodile in the Grand Canal,” he
says. “Can you believe it?” there’s the recent report of a party – clothing optional – pavilion after the drum circle up on a recent Sunday evenin phone videos of the revelry pr Stein to quip, “What happens Key doesn’t always stay on the “There’s no such thing as news in a small town,” he Running down the latest rum one of his greatest joys. It s in the boyish grin that make appear younger than his sixty “I laugh when I hear the “ind leaders” insist that print is d can read about things on my ph says Stein. “Somebody still report the hyper-local news a it out to the locals for you to about it on your phone.” But the news this evening awards dinner would take totally by surprise. “It had been a long day was getting tired and think cutting out early,” he said in a interview. “But I’d given my c to Trish Johnson-Ivey (of Fre & Marketing) to take some pic But now she’s up front, pres
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April 2015
asual” to a Whole New Level
” Then a rave at the e broke ng. Cell rompts on the e Key.” s small notes. mor is shows es him y years. dustry dead, I hone,” has to and get o read
g at the e Stein
and I king of recent camera esh PR ctures. senting
an award, so I had to wait until she finished.” So Stein takes a seat. Then something Ivey says catches his ear. “If you’ve seen this person around town, always in shorts, you might think he’s a tourist but in fact he’s hard at work; he’s always on the move. He’s heavily involved with almost every civic group on Siesta Key…” Uh-oh, Stein thinks to himself, slowly realizing where this is going amid chuckles and glances his way from the audience. “I take great pleasure in presenting the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Business Person of the year award to Siesta resident, Bob Stein from Island Visitor Publishing,” The normally effusive Bob Stein was caught off guard, rendered momentarily speechless, by the spotlight now fixed squarely on him. Later, after hearing he had nearly bugged out before receiving the award, Chamber Executive Director Debra Lyn-Schmitz joked: “He wouldn’t have made it to the door. I would have tackled him before got near it!” She said the qualities the chamber
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 19
By Robert Frederickson
looks for in the award winner include community involvement and chamber activity. But beyond that, there’s something more. “The chamber wants the person who best represents the spirit of Siesta Key,” she explained. That spirit clearly animates Stein. He loves living and working on the Key, saying he first came under its spell in 2007 while still caught up in the corporate grind he is now so grateful to have left behind. “I was working for Journal Communications (parent company of The Milwaukee Journal) at the time” he said over lunch at the Alpine Steakhouse on the South Trail. “They owned the Pelican Press then as well as some other publications in the area. I would fly down and stay at our rental place on Ft. Myers Beach, then drive up to the publications I oversaw in my role as Operations Director for their Community Publishing Group.” The Pelican’s office was located near the Village. In a Siesta minute – island time – Stein was hooked. “From my first trip I thought: what a great
place this must be to live and work. In 2010, the Steins sold their holdings in Wisconsin and moved to their rental property on Ft. Myers Beach, always with an eye toward Siesta Key. As fate would have it, a small quarterly publication was brought to Bob’s attention. The Stein’s acquired the publication along with purchasing a single family home on the Key. In 2012, with Bob’s experience in the industry, he began to publish the monthly publication for the Del Tura community located in N. Ft. Myers and The Landings Eagle, located in Sarasota. Last year they added a fourth paper, The Columns, covering Tara Woods near Ft. Myers. Stein’s knowledge of the industry started in the late 1970’s in Wisconsin where he developed a successful group of newspapers and shoppers that blanketed the city and suburbs of Milwaukee with a combined circulation of 135,000. Thomson Newspaper Group took note of his success, buying Stein’s Shopper group in 1995. But since then, aside from owning and managing rental properties,
Stein had missed the excitement and freedom of working full-time for himself. It was also in 2012 that the couple stretched their original business model beyond products tailored exclusively to gated communities; they decided to expand by launching a new publication covering Siesta Key and adjacent mainland neighborhoods. Their decision was prompted in part on Dr. Stephen Leatherman (a.k.a. Dr. Beach) naming Siesta the nation’s top beach in 2011. “We decided the time was right,” said Stein, adding that they hoped to capitalize on the attention the top-beach award would bring. It also gave them the name for their new paper, Siesta Sand. “It is why the world comes to Sarasota”. Stein stated. Stein currently prints between 13,850 to 17,000+ copies of Siesta Sand each month, based on time of year, mailing a copy to homeowners on the Key along with 8 postal routes on the mainland. To ensure complete saturation, 200+ additional drop points and newsstands are
maintained throughout the month. “It’s more expensive to mail, but it’s the right way to go in an area like this,” he explains. “So many people with homes here are away in the summer or travel a lot. They don’t want papers piling up, which is what you get with free papers thrown on driveways. So far the new venture has worked out well for the couple. Siesta Sand has been well received for its focus on the Key. Both Bob and Emy work hard, but they are grateful to now work for themselves. And they’ve finally realized that dream of living and working on Siesta Key. Being named Business Person of the Year? That’s a true honor, says Stein. But living on island time… That’s an award that comes each and every day. “Siesta is a small town,” he says. “This is my hometown now and I want to make sure it’s looked after to keep that small town feel.” And best of all? “I get to wear shorts and sandals to work every day,” he says with a smile. “What could be better than that?”
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LIQUOR STORES / FINE WINES Gabbiano’s Wine Club....................... Map-D #70 Gilligan’s.............................................. Map-B #33 Siesta Key Wines............................... Map-C #61 The Beach Club................................... Map-D #22 MAILING - SHIPPING UPS store............................................. Map-A #41 US Post Office..................................... Map-D #65 MARKETS/FOOD STORES 7-11 Store.............................................. Map-B #46 Circle K Store......................................... Map-E #6 Siesta Market........................................Map-C #25 MASSAGE Hands of Light Massage.................... Map-B #35 Massage Experience Siesta Key......Map-D #62 Massage Therapy.................................. Map-E #1 Siesta Key Massage Ctr......................Map-D #9 MEDICAL - DENTAL Sarasota Medical Ctr.......................... Map-D #63 Siesta Key Physical Therapy............. Map-D #20 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce..................... Map-D #67 Roberti Enterprises............................ Map-A #39 Sheriff’s Office...................................... Map-D #9 Tarot Card Reading & Gifts...............Map-C #50
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Birkenstock & More 5128 Ocean Blvd. Siesta Village
941-346-7425 www.rickscomfortshoes.com
PROFESSIONAL SERVICES CG Designs...........................................Map-E #1 Edward Jones Investments............... Map-D #68 Smith Architects.................................. Map-E #74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Coldwell Banker Realty..................... Map-D #20 Horizon Realty.................................... Map-B #34 Island Homes.......................................Map-C #51 Key Realty.............................................Map-E #5 Michael Saunders Realty..................Map-E #72 Re/Max Alliance Group................... Map-D #60 ReMax Tropical Sands....................... Map-D #67 Robasota Rentals & Real Estate..... Map-A #39 Siesta Key Realty.................................. Map-D #9 Waterside Realty.................................Map-C #29 RESTAURANTS / CAFES 314 II, Craft Beer board Room........... Map-A #37 A Taste of Germany.......................... Map-C #53 Another Broken Egg..................Map-C #54 & 55 Beach Bites..........................................Map-D #16 Blase Café............................................ Map-A #38 Blu Que Island Grill......................... Map-C #57 Bonjour French Cafe...........................Map-C #47 Café Gabbiano.................................... Map-D #71 Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar............... Map-B #42-43 Eat Here Restaurant.....................Map-D #17-18 Flavio’s Brick Oven & Bar.................. Map-B #29 Flavio’s Italiano Ristorante................ Map-B #30 Gilligan’s Island Bar & Grill.............. Map-B #33 Jo To’s Japanese Restaurant...............Map-C #47 LeLu’s Coffee Bar................................ Map-B #31 Lobster Pot.......................................... Map-C #23 Napoli’s Italian Restaurant................Map-C #53 Old Salty Dog Rest. & Pub................... Map-E #2 Señor Siesta......................................... Map-D #69 Siesta Key Oyster Bar........................Map-B #45 Solorzano Bros. Pizzeria.................... Map-D #15 Subway Sandwiches........................... Map-B #30 Sun Garden Café................................ Map-D #19 The Cottage..........................................Map-C #58 The Hub - Baja Grill........................... Map-D #59 Village Café........................................Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY Nails By Iris..........................................Map-C #50 Salon Capelli......................................... Map-D #9 Sassy Hair Salon................................ Map-A #40 Siesta Key Nails.................................... Map-D #9 Village Barber....................................... Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida............................................ Map-B #32 Robin Hood Rentals.........................Map-D #34 Siesta Village Outfitters......................Map-C #53
Map C #53
Map D #11
April 2015
ATM & BANKS Bank of America........................................ A-3 #3 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Capt. Curt’s Backroom Saloon................B-3 #7 Crescent Club........................................... C-3 #13 Sniki Tiki....................................................B-3 #8 DELIS & SANDWICHES Anna’s Deli & Sandwiches.................. C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery..... ......................................................................B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson’s Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES CB’s Island Outfitters.............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters........................ A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion......................................B-3 #1 Coconuts / Island Colors..........................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Swimwear......................... C-3 #14 Key Casual Fashions............................... D-3 #17
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net
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 The Silversmith ...................................... D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry.................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Lorraine’s Beauty & Barber.....................B-3 #8 Salon Siesta............................................... D-3 #17 Siesta Key Salon & Spa........................... C-3 #14 The Key Spa & Salon.............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus .......................................B-3 #8 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson’s Drugs.................................... C-3 #14 Mail Pack Center..................................... C-3 #14 LIQUOR STORES Crescent Beach Grocery...........................B-3 #1 Crescent Club............................................B-3 #13
“Home of the Orange Squeeze!”
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 MISCELLANEOUS Moving & Storage....................................B-3 #10 Flowers by Fudgie................................... D-3 #17 REAL ESTATE / RENTALS Homes & Condo Rentals........................ D-3 #17 Moynihan Realty..................................... D-3 #17 Re/Max Tropical Sands............................B-3 #1 Siesta 4-Rent.............................................. C-3 #1 RESTAURANTS
Capt. Curts Crab & Oyster Bar.................B-3 #7 City Pizza Italian Restaurant............... D-3 #17 Clayton’s Siesta Grille...............................B-3 #9 Javier’s Restaurant.................................. C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant................................ C-3 #17 Munchies.................................................. C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals.................. A-5 #12 CB’s Island Outfitters.............................. 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 Parasailing............................... A-4 #5 Siesta Sports Rentals............................... A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals............................. C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club...................... A-5 #12
Big Water Fish Market................................C-3 #17 Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill...............A-5 #12
“A Tropical Department Store“
SHELL & GIFT CITY
$
Siesta Key’s Most Friendly & Unique Shopping Spot! SOUTHBRIDGE MALL
OPEN 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM DAILY
G ATURIN
FE
Homemade Ice Cream
Map B-3#8
941-346-0202
19.95 Reg. To $49.00
SIESTA KEY
Siesta Key’s Largest Seashell & Coral Selection!
Sundaes l Shakes l Smoothies l Coffees Espresso l Cappuccinos
1220 Old Stickney Point Rd., Siesta Key In the Captain Curt’s Plaza
CRESCENT BEACH
!
THE GREEN TURTLE
er Sale up Ladies Bathing Suits
S
20 SIESTA SAND
GIFTS & SOUVENIRS BEACH FASHIONS BEACH SUPPLIES BEACH COVER-UPS LADIES & JUNIORS FASHIONS SUPER MEN'S LINE In South Bridge Mall
6525 Midnight Pass Road
MAP B-3#14
green TURTLE COUPON
FREE! FREE! FREE! A Free Tropical Gift! 79 c Just For Stopping In
349-4751
VALUE
With This Coupon
No Purchase Necessary Expires 12/31/15 EXPIRES:7/05/2010
Map C-3#14 Open 7 Days 9 am-5 pm
941-346-1797
“Voted Small Business of the Year by Siesta Key Chamber”
RepaiRs, sales anD accessORies
HOuRly • Daily • Weekly
TREK BIKES • BEACH WHEELCHAIRS • PADDLEBOARDS SCOOTERS • SCOOTER CARS • KAYAKS • KAYAK TOURS CHAIRS/UMBRELLAS • STROLLERS • SNORKELING GEAR
New 50cc Scooters
KAYAK TOURS ONLY 45/PERSON • BEST PRICE AROUND FREE DELIVERY AND P/U ON SIESTA KEY FOR MOST RENTALS $
6551 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key, FL in Southbridge Mall • Map C-3#14
5
$ off SCOOTER RENTALS Half Days/Full Days/Multi Day Rentals with this Coupon 12/31/15 EXPIRES 12/31/14
© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012
Bikes • Kayaks • Scooters • Kayak Tours
Map B-3#8
Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-3 #14
CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.
MAP A-3 #4
Coconuts Fashion 1215 Old Stickney Point Rd.
Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.
MAP C-3 #1
Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road
MAP C-4 #17
Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.
PLACE YOUR AD HERE Island Visitor Publishing 941-349-0194
MAP B-3 #1&8 MAP A-5 #12
www.siestasand.net 941.349.0194
April 2015
Notes from the Island Fishmonger
Water World
Captain Jim Klopfer
By Scott Dolan
Smoking Fish A Florida tradition
Adventure Charters 941-371-1390
Spanish mackerel should be schooling up off of Siesta Key Beach in April and will hit a well-presented fly
Mother Nature has been right on schedule thus far in 2015. Regular cold fronts have kept the water temperature in the mid 60s, which is just right for this time of year. April should offer incredible fishing for a variety of species. Big Pass and New Pass will be alive with fish migrating in and out of the bay this month. Spanish mackerel, bluefish, pompano, and ladyfish should be plentiful. Pompano prefer a small white or chartreuse jig bounced along the bottom while the mackerel are often found higher in the water column or breaking on the surface. There is nothing more exciting than casting a surface plug on light tackle or a fly into a feeding frenzy! Action on the deep flats will be very good for speckled trout, pompano, Spanish mackerel, bluefish, and ladyfish. The best flats to fish will be from Siesta Drive north to Long Bar. Flats that are near both passes will be especially productive. A ¼ ounce jig in gold, olive, or rootbeer is a great lure to prospect with; a lot of water can be covered and just about every species will hit it. Rapala X-Raps work very well when surface activity is seen, they also are a great lure to troll slowly and locate schools of fish. Silver and gold spoons are another good choice. Live bait works very well, too. There should be plenty of whitebait to net up and of course a live shrimp free lined or fished under a noisy float is a deadly technique. The area between Siesta Drive and Blackburn Point will be good for snook as they migrate out towards the beach to spawn. Any point, oyster bar, dock, or creek mouth that drops off into deeper water is a likely spot to try. High, outgoing tides are best. Plugs cover a lot of water and result in vicious strikes while jigs require more patience but will fool more redfish along with snook. Don’t be surprised when a big jack crevelle or trout inhales an offering meant for a snook or red. This has been a good season for sheepshead and while it is past its peak there should still be plenty of these tasty saltwater panfish around. Docks, seawalls, and bridges near passes will hold sheepies. A live shrimp fished on the bottom will fool them, along with snapper, grouper, and flounder. Surf fishing should be very good for Spanish mackerel, ladyfish, flounder, pompano, and more. Live or frozen shrimp fished near the bottom with a little weight works well. Spoons, plugs, and jigs will also catch plenty of fish. April is a great month for anglers with a small boat and not a lot of experience to catch big fish. The beaches and inshore artificial reefs will be thick with king and Spanish mackerel, along with false albacore and the occasional cobia. Trolling spoons is very easy and deadly on all species.
For 15 years now I have
been roaming the state of Florida eating, selling, and studying the Florida seafood industry. Seafood has always been a passion of mine… maybe because it tastes real good! Anyway, I have been in every fish market from the Eaton Street Seafood Market in Key West to the Buford International Fish Market in Atlanta, GA and many others along the East Coast and Midwestern United States. One thing that always intrigued me was Florida’s passion for smoked fish and smoked fish spreads. For as long as history can record, people all over the world from all cultures have relied on the smoke curing of fish and meat products for long term storage solutions. Nowadays smoking for preservation is common in less developed countries where transportation is limited. In more developed countries such as the United States where transportation is increasingly efficient, smoking remains popular for texture and flavor. This is how BBQ got so popular by the smoking of ribs and briskets which results in mouthwatering, fall off the bone, smoke flavored meats that are finger lickin’ good. Florida has done with fish what Texas has done with meats only we provide a smoked fish product that is flavorful and healthier than red meats. When I first opened a fish market on Siesta Key, of course many people had many suggestions for me. One of the most frequently asked questions were, “do you guys know what you are doing?” and “are you going to be smoking fish and especially mullet?” Well I had a lot more experience in the seafood and service industry than
|Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans
Let’s go sailing, KATHLEEN D Sailing Catamarans, serving Siesta Key from 3 locations, Downtown Sarasota, Longboat Key and Anna Marie Island. If you would like to experience being on the water viewing Dolphin Watches, Sunset Sails, Snorkeling and Shelling call us at 941870-4349 or go to our web site for detailed information www.kathleend.net USCG Certified for 20 passengers.
|The Rumrunner
Located at Turtle Beach Marina in South Siesta Key | 941.349.3119 www.siestakeycharterfishing.com Captain Joe Bonaro offers more than exciting deep sea fishing opportunities aboard “Sarasota’s
fastest charter boat,” the Rumrunner (941/349-3119). The skipper offers special boat and fishing trips for families – and for families with small children – as well as customized day and overnight trips.
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 21
I was given credit for by the locals and did not need a fish education but one thing I did do was ask the local fishermen to teach me about smoking fish the “Florida Way”. Of course my mentors only knew about smoking mullet with buttonwood and were stuck in their traditional techniques and recipe secrets. So I listened and I learned and I practiced. They taught me about this mullet, smoked fish spreads and preserving fish by smoking it. So after 3 years of practice and experimentation I feel that we at the Big Water Fish Market can put our smoked fish up against any others in the area. We took bits and pieces of what we learned along the way and combined that knowledge with our own theories and developed our own system. First we put our fish into a spicy salt brine the night before we smoke (we do not put Salmon in the brine as the water would discolor the meat). The next morning we remove the fish from the brine and then apply a dry rub hours before smoking. We smoke it low and slow for about an hour per filet. Brine + dry rub + oak wood + less than 200 degrees indirect heat = moist, smoked flavored fish filets. Many people use this technique but nobody smokes the same quality of fish as we do. Our theory is that if you cook with a superior fish you will get a superior product. For
this reason we only smoke with fresh fish and we have chosen to smoke a higher quality of fish than the mullet. Although the old school mullet is still popular in Florida, you will only find fish such as Cobia, Mahi, Amberjack, and Salmon on our smoker. We also smoke whole fish, Eel, Octopus and Grouper heads when available. Yes, I said Grouper heads, as the tenderest meat falls from the neck, cheeks and top of the head while smoking. We call this the “sweet meat” and sell it from the retail counter. It usually sells out the day we smoke. Andrew Zimmerman would be proud. Every Tuesday we fill our smoker (located in the alley behind our shop) with oak wood as it is indigenous to Florida along with some of the better quality local and imported fish. We smoke it for various times depending on the size and origin and then we cryovac individual meats and filets for sale. We make our fish spreads with the loose meat and put the “sweet meat” (Grouper cheek meat) on display for sale. Every Tuesday you can come to Big Water Fish Market for a smoked fish lunch or buy smoked fish to take home with you to snack on or even eat for breakfast as many Floridians do.
Live well....Eat fish Scott Big Water Fish Market
APRIL 2015 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay
April 2015
N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date
Day
1
We
1217pm
High Tide 1.6
High Tide
Sunrise
Sunset
Moonrise
Moonset
629am
2
Th
1208am
1.6
1231pm
3
Fr
1247am
1.6
1244pm
4
Sa
123am
1.6
5
Su
157am
6
Mo
7
Tu
8
Low Tide 0.2
644pm
Low Tide 0.5
721am
748pm
538pm
538am
1.6
657am
0.3
718pm
0.4
720am
749pm
628pm
612am
1.7
721am
0.4
750pm
0.2
719am
749pm
719pm
647am
1259pm
1.8
742am
0.5
822pm
0.1
718am
750pm
811pm
721am
1.5
119pm
1.9
802am
0.6
857pm
0.0
717am
750pm
904pm
758am
233am
1.4
143pm
2.0
823am
0.6
935pm
-0.1
716am
751pm
957pm
836am
315am
1.4
213pm
2.1
846am
0.7
1018pm
-0.1
715am
751pm
1051pm
917am
We
404am
1.3
247pm
2.1
911am
0.8
1109pm
-0.2
713am
752pm
1146pm
1002am
9
Th
507am
1.2
327pm
2.1
939am
0.9
712am
752pm
10
Fr
636am
1.1
416pm
2.0
1208am
-0.1
1013am
1.0
711am
753pm
1240am
1143am
11
Sa
832am
1.2
520pm
1.9
117am
-0.1
1114am
1.1
710am
753pm
133am
1239pm
12
Su
944am
1.3
646pm
1.8
230am
-0.1
121pm
1.2
709am
754pm
224am
138pm
13
Mo
1020am
1.4
826pm
1.7
337am
-0.1
317pm
1.1
708am
754pm
312am
240pm
14
Tu
1049am
1.5
954pm
1.7
435am
0.0
438pm
0.8
707am
755pm
359am
344pm
15
We
1115am
1.6
1106pm
1.7
524am
0.1
540pm
0.6
706am
755pm
444am
448pm
16
Th
1141am
1.7
606am
0.2
633pm
0.3
705am
756pm
529am
554pm
17
Fr
1209am
1.7
1207pm
1.9
643am
0.4
723pm
0.0
704am
757pm
613am
659pm
18
Sa
105am
1.6
1234pm
2.1
715am
0.6
810pm
-0.2
703am
757pm
658am
805pm
19
Su
159am
1.6
103pm
2.2
743am
0.7
857pm
-0.3
702am
758pm
745am
909pm
20
Mo
253am
1.5
134pm
2.3
809am
0.8
945pm
-0.3
701am
758pm
834am
1012pm
21
Tu
349am
1.3
207pm
2.3
834am
0.9
1035pm
-0.3
700am
759pm
925am
1111pm
22
We
452am
1.2
244pm
2.2
900am
1.0
1128pm
-0.2
659am
759pm
1017am
23
Th
613am
1.2
325pm
2.1
24
Fr
415pm
1.9
25
Sa
905am
1.3
523pm
26
Su
941am
1.4
27
Mo
1010am
28
Tu
1035am
29
We
30
Th
Full
1050am
930am
1.1
658am
800pm
1111am
1206am
1225am
-0.1
657am
800pm
1204pm
1256am
1.7
126am
0.0
1207pm
1.2
656am
801pm
1257pm
142am
702pm
1.6
228am
0.1
222pm
1.2
655am
802pm
149pm
223am
1.5
846pm
1.5
326am
0.2
358pm
1.0
655am
802pm
241pm
302am
1.6
1006pm
1.5
416am
0.3
501pm
0.8
654am
803pm
332pm
338am
1057am
1.6
1107pm
1.5
459am
0.4
548pm
0.6
653am
803pm
422pm
413am
1117am
1.7
1158pm
1.5
535am
0.5
627pm
0.4
652am
804pm
513pm
447am
©2015 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW
Phase
3rd
New
1st
22 SIESTA SAND April 2015 Who’s Playing Tonight
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net By Mike Sales
|“The Daisy Dukes Band” - A local band with a Siesta Key Connection practiced, took lessons and played at home with his dad, Mark, and was performing live on stage within a year of picking up the instrument. Scott joined a band named “Cleanser” that played big stages and opened for national acts in the Orlando area. They played covers and originals and recorded albums and courted record labels. Scott took his band and music business experience back to Sarasota where he met guitar player Todd Brue. Todd, who was also born in Sarasota began playing guitar at the age of 10 and taught himself to play, through focused study while attending FSU. His first band was “Savoy Blues Band”, where he played rhythm guitar. He and Scott later formed the band “My Friend Scott”, in 2002 along with Scott’s dad, Mark. The three became a tight knit core, playing with various other members through the years and eventually formed of “The Daisy Dukes Band”, which features Scott and Todd playing guitar and singing the male lead vocal parts, Mark playing bass, James Byme on drums, Bob Dominick on pedal steel, Ellie, Kari and Rachel on lead and backing female vocals and David Ratliff on guitar. Ellie May sings harmonies and co-fronts The Daisy Dukes Band. A true Sarasota Native, who’s parents were both musical, she’s been surrounded by music and arts her entire life. Her vocal influences were Joni Mitchell, Bonnie Raitt, Alison Kraus and Lauryn Hill. She grew up singing, dancing and acting and got an early start at formal training attending Booker High where she studied musical theater and went on to join the
One weekend, when passing through downtown after a gig, I saw a bus with a trailer that read, “The Daisy Dukes Band”, parked in front of the Gator Club. My immediate thought was; “they must really have their act together”. Since I’m always looking to see what the next band has to offer, I made it a point to drop in for a performance to find that my initial impression was correct. “The Daisy Dukes Band” featured 2 girls fronting and singing most of the songs, guitar players, a steel player, a bass player and a drummer who seemed to know the perfect harmonies to sing for every song. The whole stage at the Gator Club, was filled and the dance floor was no different as the band played song after song of familiar super country hits, including selections that are still climbing the charts. This being season and everyone including me being so busy, it made gathering the whole team for an interview impractical, but I did my homework, so as to share some information about this local “super group” and their Siesta Key connection. Mark Serbin began his musical life with the French horn in band and orchestra in Junior High School. While at school, he learned to play bass and in 1997 began performing with various groups. His early influences were the bass players of such classic super bands as, “Cream” (Jack Bruce), “Led Zeppelin” (John Paul Jones), “The Who (John Entwistle) and “The Beatles” (Paul McCartney). Mark passed his love of music onto his son, Scott. Scott Serbin was born and raised in Sarasota FL and picked up the guitar in high school. He
CLUB
MONDAY
In the Village 941‐349‐9822
BLU QUE ISLAND GRILL In the Village
941‐346‐0738 DAIQUIRI DECK RAW BAR In the Village
941‐349‐8697 GILLIGANS
In the Village 941‐346‐8122
Scott Curts (3‐7pm)
SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB) In the Village
941‐346‐5443
THE BEACH CLUB In the Village 941‐349‐6311
THE COTTAGE In the Village 941‐312‐9300
THE HUB‐BAJA GRILL In the Village 941‐349‐6800
BACKROOM SALOON @ CAPT. CURTS Crescent Beach Shops
Over the South Bridge
941‐921‐6200
Live Music 6‐10pm
WEDNESDAY Live Music 6‐10pm
THURSDAY Live Music 6‐10pm
Billy Lyon (3‐7pm)
Noel Harris (3‐7pm)
941‐966‐1901
Live Music (6‐10pm)
Spark Notes (3‐7pm) DJ TJ (10pm) Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am
Patrick 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am
RPM 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am
Acoustic Open Mic w/ Nally & Egglefield 6‐10pm
Ben Hammond 7‐11pm
Open mic night 7‐11pm
Kettle of Fish 7‐11pm
Berry Oakley’s Skylab 7‐11pm
You can find out more about the band and upcoming shows by visiting daisydukesband.com The Daiquiri Deck is located in the Village on Siesta Key at: 5250 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key and features live and DJ music weekly. Mike Sales is a local singer songwriter for more information visit mikesalessings.com
TGIM
Kettle of Fish 9pm‐midnight
DJ Rev Kev 10pm – 2am
Live Band 8/9pm‐Midnight
Live Music 6‐9pm
Live Music 6‐9pm
Live Music 6‐9pm
Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
Nick LeValley 6‐10pm
Sunny Jim 6‐10pm
Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
RPM 6‐10pm
Swamp Donkie 2‐6pm Rising Tide 8pm – 12am
SATURDAY
SUNDAY
Live Music 6‐10pm
Live Music 6 ‐10pm
1‐4 ‐ Live Music
1‐5pm Live Music 6‐10pm: Live Music
6‐10pm: Live Music Miles Bosworth (3‐7pm) DJ Crawford (10pm) Acoustic Pete 1‐5pm Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am Eddie James Jazz Band 6‐10pm
Matt Gerhardt (3‐7pm) K. Conn (9pm) Road Block 2‐6pm Live Music 6‐10pm Venturas on the back patio (5‐9pm) DJ 10pm – 2am
Dana & Co 2‐6pm Mike Tozier 8pm – 12am
TBA – 2 pm Tozier – 5pm Chris Otto ‐ 10pm
Live Band 8 – 11pm DJ 11‐2am
Live Band 8 –11pm DJ 11pm‐2am
Democracy (Reggae) 10pm‐2am
Live Music 7‐10pm
Live Music 7‐10pm
Live Music 7‐10pm
Live Music 6‐9pm
Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
Live Music 1 – 4pm
4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 –midnight
Live Music 1‐4pm 4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 ‐ midnight
Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm
Karaoke 9pm – 1am
Karaoke 9pm – 1am
Chris Otto/TBA 6‐10pm
Tommy Rox 6‐10pm
Paul Duffy 6‐10pm
Larry Williams 5‐9pm
(Reggae Music)
Live Music 4‐8pm
Live Music 4‐8pm
Karaoke 9pm ‐1am Chris Otto 6‐10pm
Chris Otto (Every other Fri) Andres Collin 5‐9pm
Live Music 4‐8pm
CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey
FRIDAY
Kevin Thompson (3‐7pm) DJ Crawford (10pm)
RPM 6‐10pm
941‐349‐3885
SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS
TUESDAY
Rodney Shenk 6‐10pm
In the Village 941‐346‐5358
BOATYARD BAR & GRILL
“The Daisy Dukes Band”. If the experience of the individual members, the staying power of the group’s founders and the precision by which The Daisy Dukes Band was launched is any indication of their future in the business, it’s safe to say that going to see them locally, while you still can is a treat you deserve to give yourself.
12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live th Music/27 only:Twinkle Music Music Music Music
Lelu’s Coffee Lounge
941‐349‐3885
Rachel Matthes and Kari Rae both have ties to Siesta Key
LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE
BLASE CAFÉ
Crescent Beach Shops
company at “The Player’s Theater” in several productions as well. Ellie met Scott and Todd in 2008 and formed a rock band, which they transformed into “The Daisy Dukes Band” of today, when Kari, joined the group and they turned their focus toward modern country tunes. Fellow Daisy Dukes lead vocalist Kari Rae, was born in Dallas and moved all over Texas growing up. She learned to sing in church and in the car and at home with her father. Her early influences included “The Judds, Jessica Andrews, Alison Krauss, Trisha Yearwood and Leann Rimes. She continued to sing and pick up various instruments through school and took formal music lessons while attending college, in Mobile, AL where she could also be seen singing and playing guitar downtown. She also plays flute, saxophone, oboe and piano. Kari moved to Sarasota in 2010 where she met Ellie May, while working at the Daiquiri Deck in the Village on Siesta Key. Their friendship and effortless blend of their vocals was a perfect fit when The Daisy Dukes Band was formed. Rachel Matthes, the band’s newest member was born in Southern Ohio and grew up there surrounded by musical influence. Growing up she found herself too shy to perform, but channeled her creative talent into sketching, painting, journaling and writing poetry and prose. These musings eventually developed into lyric writing and led her past stage fright into performing at open mic nights at a wine bar where she worked. Since Rachel is married to one of the co-owners of Daiquiri Deck, she met Kari and eventually joined
Above information is subject to change. We suggest calling venues for confirmation.
Democracy 4‐8pm
www.siestasand.net 941.349.0194
Island Humor [ A wife comes home dead-tired from working the late shift, goes directly to the bedroom to prepare her shower when she notices four legs sticking out of the bed. Angerly, she takes off her high heel and begins to whack away at the two blanketed figures. With shaking hands she heads for the kitchen to pour herself a stiff drink to calm her nerves. As she enters, she sees her husband pouring himself a glass of milk. “Hi sweetheart,” he says. “Your parents stopped by for a visit and were too tired to drive all the way home so I let them stay in our bedroom. Did you stop and say “hello’?” [ A woman decided to treat herself to an overnight stay at the best hotel in town for her 75th birthday. When she checks out the next day, the desk clerk hands her a bill for $800.00. Upset, she demanded to know why the charge was so high. “It’s certainly a nice hotel room, but doesn’t justify the high cost for a one-night stay,” she indicated. “I didn’t even order room service.” The clerk informs her that it is the standard rate to which she requests to talk to the manager.
The manager listens to her complaint and announces, “I’m sorry you feel this way madam, but this hotel is the best in town and offers patrons an Olympic-sized pool and a huge conference Centre which are available for use.” “But I didn’t use them,” she said. “Well, they are here and you could have,” replied the manager. He went on to explain that she could have also seen one of the shows. “We have the best entertainers from the world over performing here,” he said. “But I didn’t even see any shows,” she declared. “Well they are available and you could have attended a show without charge,” replied the manager. He continued to extoll all the wonderful amenities the hotel offered, to which she replied, “But I didn’t use them.” He in turn countered with his standard response. Realizing she wasn’t getting anywhere, she decides to write out a check and hands it to him. He thanked her then looked at the check and says, “But madam, this check is only for $300.00.” “That’s correct. I charged you $500.00 for sleeping with me,” she
April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 23
replied. “But I didn’t!” exclaimed the very surprised manager. “Well by golly. I was here and you could have.” [ A driver was stuck in traffic on the highway outside Washington D.C. Nothing was moving. Suddenly, a man knocks on the window. The driver rolls down the window and asks, “What’s going on?” “Terrorists have kidnapped Congress, and they are asking for a $100 million dollar ransom. If their demands aren’t met they are going to douse them all in gasoline and set them on fire. We are going from car to car looking for donations.” “How much is everyone giving on average?” asked the driver. The man replies, “About a gallon.”
h... t n o M e h T f o r e d Barten 280 - 941.349.2 b u P ch a e B le rt Tu ass Rd., 8865 Midnight P 4242 Siesta Key, FL 3
[ A man was working out in the gym when he noticed a beautiful young woman. He asked his trainer, “What machine should I use in here to impress a girl like that?” The trainer looked him up and down and said, “I’d try the ATM down the hall”.
Name of Bartender: Ashley Q: How long have you been bartending? A: For 5 years and counting.
HOTTEST BAR IN GULF GATE... MLB/College Packages FULL BAR
Q: What was the strangest or funniest thing you experienced at work? A: We have 3 signs pointing to where the bathroom is. Every customer always goes down the other way. So I had this guy one day. When he realized it wasn’t down that way he asked me “Where’s the bathroom?” I point and said, “It’s around the corner.” He starts to walk outside around the corner of the pub thinking it was outside. I always see and hear crazy stuff here. Q: What do you do in your spare time? A: I have the weekends off. Saturdays I’m a soccer mom. I enjoy being outside. Going to the beach, fishing, or Bush Gardens. Anytime I can enjoy the sun I’m a happy girl. Q: How would you describe yourself? A: I’m a simple, fun, laid back kind of girl with a big heart.
I Love to laugh and have a great time with good people. Q: How would you describe where you work? A: We have people from all over the world come see us year after year. It’s a cute crazy little pub. I’m glad I work with amazing people and management! Pub food and cold beer; what more can you ask for?
6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905
Q: When’s the best time to see you? A: Monday through Friday, 11AM until 4PM. Every other week (Monday through Friday 11AM until 8PM) I’m serving.
24 SIESTA SAND
April 2015
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net
From bridges to beaches Continued from cover story
The original start date for the project, to replenish the sand that has eroded from the shore since the last renourishment in 2007, was planned for January so it could be completed before the start of sea turtle nesting season in May. The U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, however, declared the Rufa Red Knot bird as a threatened species that is now protected by the Endangered Species Act in 2014. Due to this change, the start date for the project has been moved to November, when the project is not expected to impact the now-protected birds. “The goal is to have the project started in November,” Sarasota County Spokesman Jason Bartolone.
Siesta Public Beach Improvements
On March 10, all of the public parking was open along with the new playground at the improved Siesta Public Beach area. A total of 143 new parking spaces were added just in time for spring break. The county and its contractor stayed within the project’s budget thus far, and managed to add additional construction work within that budget, such as adding in pavers and increasing the size of some of the landscape trees used, Brad Gaubatz, Sarasota County Public Works Project Manager, told commissioners March 20. All four phases of the construction work at the Siesta Public Beach are expected to be completed by early 2016, with construction at the West concessions taking place next. Commissioner Alan Maio, who as District 4 Commissioner represents the Key, said he hasn’t heard complaints about the construction work and gave kudos to the contractor, Jon F. Swift Inc. So far, the improvements look great, he said. “Our whole community needs to be very proud,” Maio said.
Siesta Key Lift Station and Force Main Pipe
This project is a multi-year, multimillion dollar project with the overall goal of removing the Siesta Key Wastewater Treatment Plant and replacing the aging facility with a new lift station and force main sewer pipe. It will take four phases of construction work to decommission the aging plant, which is a remnant of a previous type of wastewater treatment. It is the only wastewater facility currently in the county that treats water and discharges it into a waterway. The county plans to decommission the old wastewater plant
by December, 31, 2016. That plan has to come to fruition in order to meet an agreement with the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP), which is mandating shutting the facility down. The County Commission’s approval March 17 of funding for engineering work is a step forward for the longplanned project. Once constructed, the new pump station and force main will transfer about 1.5-million gallons per day of wastewater from Siesta Key to regional water reclamation facilities on the mainland. The wastewater will mainly be treated at the Bee Ridge Water Reclamation Facility, which will also undergo upgrades as part of the fiveyear Capital Improvements Program. Construction of the $2.5 million project to expand wastewater treatment capacity at the Bee Ridge facility should start August, 2015. There is a question of what to do with the remaining land at the end of Shadow Lawn once the new lift station is built. The property fronts Grand Canal, and the new lift station will take a significantly smaller footprint than the treatment plant. The 10-acre Glebe Park is also close by. The Siesta Key Association is getting ready for the wastewater facility’s decommissioning next year. The organization has formed a committee to review possible options for the property after the demolition of the current facilities. The committee wants to make a recommendation to the county on what to do with the parcel. “We want to come up with some viable ideas for what to do with the property,” Shay told Siesta Sand.
March 10, 2015
Bridge remediation project
On Feb. 18, the County Commission voted to approve a contract with Uretek Holdings for $759,090 to repair parts of eight bridges, including: Contento Drive Bridge; Azure Way Bridge; Calle Florida Bridge; Treasure Boat Way (West) Bridge; Treasure Boat Way (East) Bridge; Primrose Path Bridge; Givens Street Bridge; Higel Avenue Bridge. The project design is complete, and repair work is slated to begin Spring 2015, with a Summer 2015 expected completion. According to the Sarasota County project description, the construction work consists mostly of filling existing voids under bridge approach slabs and sidewalks.
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Since 1994
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SpringToothaches!
Spring is upon us along with plant pollen. Live Oak and its yellowish pollen is the most visible. This year it is joined by Red Tide.
At Palmer Ranch Dental, we are noticing a definite increase in vague but very uncomfortable tooth pain especially in the upper back teeth. Even careful examination usually can’t localize the pain to specific teeth or another oral area. In the absence of a definite oral problem we try to rule out some sort of sinus issue. Since the roots of the upper back teeth are close to sinus areas, inflammation or infection of the sinus can mimic tooth discomfort. Often we recommend that patients take their usual antihistamine medication to see if this helps. Not all mouth discomfort comes from teeth, but diagnosis of oral discomfort begins with your dentist. Remember, it’s easier and far less costly to prevent oral disease than to treat it. It’s up to you!
“The Landings Plaza”
4982 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, FL 34231 941-925-3955 Fax 926-0066 View menu at corkscrewdeli.com
Palmer Ranch Dental 8800 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34238
941-966-5603
www.siestasand.net 941.349.0194
April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 25
Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 2
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7 1: Andres from Sarasota, Evanna & Anaya, age 8 months, from Ocala. 2: Mary & Moe, Anna age 5, Nicholas age 8, Beth & Mike, from MA. 3: Elena age 4, William age 3, Amelia age 7 from Nebraska. 4: Jessica, Davis age 2, from Michigan. 5: Marissa & Michael from MI. 6: Trey from Winterhaven, Kate from Chicago. 7: Nathan age 5 and Mattison age 7 from Sarasota.
Island Churches:
Places of Worship
• Siesta Key Presbyterian Chapel 4615 Gleason Ave, Siesta Key, 941-349-1166 www.siestakeychapel.org • St. Michael’s Catholic Church 5394 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4174 www.stmichaelssiesta.com • St. Boniface Episcopal Church 5615 Midnight Pass Rd, Siesta Key, 941-349-5616 www.bonifacechurch.org
Beach Service:
• Point of Praise – (Sat. 5-7pm) Live praise and worship music. Free concert on the beach. Public invited. Held the last Saturday of each month on the main beach just
to the left of the volleyball nets. Contact Aaron Martin at 941-914-3433, to confirm time and location.
Off- Island:
•Temple Sinai, a Reform Congregation (The closest Jewish congregation to the Key for visitors) 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, 941-924-1802 www.templesinai-sarasota.org • St. Andrew United Church of Christ (Protestant) (In the Gulf Gate area, near Beneva and Gulf Gate Drive) 6908 Beneva Road, Sarasota, 941.922.7595 www.uccstandrew.org
• The Superior Word Rev. Charlie Garrett Service starts Sunday mornings at 10am. Bring a friend and share in God’s word. 6512 Superior Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34242 • First Christian Church 7601 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241. 941-922-4434 www.fccsarasota.com •Center for Metaphysical Fellowship Sunday Service at 10:30am includes healing, inspirational talk, special music & spirit messages. NEW - Healing Service: 1st tues. of the month at 7pm. 2044 Bispham Road, Sarasota 34231, 941-266-8435 www.cmfsarasota.org
26 SIESTA SAND
April 2015
Artist of the Month
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net By Diana Colson
|Siesta Key’s Artistic Entrepreneur Martha Smith Martha Smith grew up in a small harbor-front town called Mattapoisett, located near Cape Cod, Massachusetts, on Buzzards Bay. The youngest of five, the siblings all became artists in one medium or another. Like her brothers and one sister, Martha is a musician as well. She attended SMU South Eastern Massachusetts University, now called UMass Dartmouth. She also did a lot of summer sailing, most often on a French-built wooden 56’ boat named the SAUDADE. Sometimes she even raced on an “Evelyn 32” called ZEITGEIST out of Noank, Connecticut. Martha’s father was an artist and an architect, her mother a photographer and a horticulturist/ tennis player. Her father built a studio in 1971 at their home. It was 40 feet long by 25 feet wide, and all its windows faced north because—as an artist—her father coveted the north light. She speaks fondly of her Dad. She recalls standing at her father’s knee watching him paint and draw as he taught her about color, light and architecture. “Before I was born, he spent a year sailing and painting his way around the Caribbean, and I grew up surrounded by his paintings of that adventure!” Perhaps that’s the reason Martha gravitates towards painting the warm colors of the tropics, its water views and Caribbean whimsy. A few years after her father died, Martha took over the studio. She painted furniture and murals for a living, putting her son through Tabor Academy, a wellknown prep school in Marion, Massachusetts. One Christmas, she told her artist friends: “Hey! Let’s clean up the studio. We can do something here for Christmas—soaps, candles, jewelry, burned out velvet scarves.” This “temporary” shop was so successful that it quickly sold out of just about everything. Branches that had been had covered with hand-made ornaments were now stripped bare! Artist-friends called other artist-friends, and the shop was soon restocked. Named SAIL
AWAY STUDIO, Martha’s small boutique took on a life of its own. Before long, Martha came upon an empty storefront in Wareham Mass., two towns away. She rented that storefront, expanded SAIL AWAY, and kept her Dad’s original studio as a production shop. The boutique stayed open for 7 years. During that time she also served as her mother’s caregiver for 12 years. After her mother passed away, Martha closed SAIL AWAY STUDIO and moved to Sarasota. One of Martha’s artist-friends was Chris Bales. Martha had been carrying Chris’s jewelry for years in Massachusetts. After Chris moved to the Myaaka area, Martha called her, and Chris told her to check out Siesta Key. “I drove over Siesta Bridge on a perfect blue-sky day with crystal glass green water glinting on the bay. That was it!” She called a realtor and started looking for a new beginning. Before long, Martha opened a boutique right on Siesta Key. She named it LE GRAND BISOU (French for “The Big Kiss”.) In addition to clothes and accessories, Martha hung some of her own paintings in that shop, and also carried a few of Lisa Grimes’ Mosaic fish. Many customers admired the art work, and asked where on Siesta they might see other local art. Martha realized that Siesta Key was missing
something—an art gallery featuring the work of local artists. By now, Martha had made a wonderful group of friends who had become her surrogate family. “I’ve always loved collaborating with other artists, so it seemed a no-brainer to open an art gallery here, a place for locals to show their talents!” Martha moved her boutique a block down the street, and renamed it ISLAND BOUTIQUE. (When you stop in, ask her about the name change— it’s funny!) A group of artist-friends took over the address at 5129 Ocean Blvd., creating a co-op gallery called THE GALLERY ON SIESTA KEY. Chris Bale’s Jewelry is still featured at this gallery because Chris is a local artist. Today each member of the group takes turns running the gallery and showing their work. Says Martha: “I have high hopes that this will be a fruitful endeavor! It is ever changing and evolving. We are always looking for more talent, especially artists working in ceramics and glass.” The gallery currently features the work of 11 artists, including Martha Smith, who displays not only her acrylic paintings and furniture, but also a lovely collection of hand-drilled sea glass and pearl jewelry of her own design.(SIESTA SAND will be featuring articles on several of the other co-op artists during the coming months.) Plans are that THE GALLERY ON SIESTA KEY will host monthly “gallery nights” starting in April. The place is artist-run and operated, and hours are posted on the door, Most days it’s open from 10 -2 or from 3-7. If the doors are closed, you can always call 508971-4410 for an appointment. One of the neighborhood artists would be glad to come down and show you around! THE GALLERY ON SIESTA KEY is located at 5129 Ocean Blvd in the Village. It can also be found on Facebook. ISLAND BOUTIQUE is located at 5212 ½ Ocean Blvd. The phone number there is 941-349-0104.
Sarasota History
|Bridges Played a Role in Siesta Key Development The history of Sarasota is inextricably intertwined with the natural environment and efforts to shape the land to fit the needs of a growing community.
Over a hundred years ago, before the construction of roads and bridges throughout the county, life here was very different. Siesta Key in particular was isolated and inaccessible. Big changes began on the key when Harry Higel began to promote his development, “Siesta On The Gulf.” Platted in 1907, the subdivision was located on the north end of the Key, two and a half miles across Sarasota Bay from the mainland. At the time it was conceived, the only access to the Key was by boat. The trip by ferry from downtown to Sarasota Key, where the development was located, took 20 minutes. According to the promotional brochure for the development, Higel spent $40,000 improving the property “…driving artesian wells, laying miles of sidewalks, dredging our canals, filling in low
places, building docks, bridges, boat ways bungalows and one hotel.” One of the development’s early rustic bridges is pictured above. Documents accompanying the picture indicate that it existed by 1915 and spanned Bayou Louise. It was not until several years later, in 1917, that the first bridge was built between the Key and the mainland. Designed to open up the Key to vehicles, the usefulness of small bridges planned to serve only pedestrians diminished. By 1927, the original Siesta Key Bridge was replaced with a more substantial structure. The first Stickney Point Bridge was built at the same time as the Blackburn Point Bridge, beginning in May, 1926. In the 1950s, Siesta Key was experiencing increased development pressure and a number of older subdivisions were re-platted to introduce internal canals. A re-plat of the Ocean Beach subdivision, filed in 1952, was the first to show the manmade canals and small bridges
that define the center of the island today. A year later, in the Harmony Subdivision – platted just south of there – more canals were constructed. The subdivision was designed to connect to the canals immediately to the north. Spanning these canals were eight “pseudo-humpback bridges,” so named in a 1955 Sarasota HeraldTribune article to differentiate them from the humpback bridges
that spanned Hanson Bayou, Bayou Louise and the bridge over the Grand Canal. Now (2005 - when this article was written) coming to the end of their useful lives, these pseudohumpback bridges are slated for replacement by Sarasota County in the near future. Once completed, this project will signal just the latest chapter in the long story of bridges of Siesta Key. Source: Sarasota County History Center
www.siestasand.net 941.349.0194 Discover Gulf Gate:
With our map, located below, you’ll be able to navigate your way to our featured shops with ease. Oh Mamma Mia! (GG4) Offers a truly unique dining experience with dinner shows by Chef Giuseppe Urbano. Enjoy the family ambiance as you watch him prepare an authentic Italian regional dish with fresh ingredients just for you. Fine dining, great atmosphere at casual dining prices. Reservations highly recommended. Gulf Gate Golf Course – Conveniently located just a stones throw from the Gulf Gate Shops, this 27 hole Executive Course offers men’s and women’s rental clubs. You can start your day with a round of golf, enjoy a bite to eat at the many wonderful restaurants or simply relax with a pint of ale at the pub before you head out to explore the many fine shops. Moments In Time Photography (G-28) specializes in several different photography services including Siesta Key Beach portraits starting at just $49 and wedding beginning at $495. Check out their website: www. sarasotaphotos.com or visit their store to see why they have been
April 2015
the photographer of choice for over a decade and a half. Piccolos Italian Market & Deli (G-47) carries a full line of imported cheeses, fresh baked bread daily, homemade sausages, fresh mozzarella, and numerous hard to get items. They now carry Khorasan Wheat which is an ancient and organic grain. Their Deli is complete with huge hot and cold sandwiches, salads, fresh homemade lasagna and baked ziti. And, you cannot leave without trying their cannoli filled with their own homemade cannoli cream or the tiramisu or Sfogliatelle from Brooklyn. Here is where you will find great Italian specialty gourmet items without the gourmet price. Tony’s Chicago Beef Company (S-16) is owned and operated by true Chicagoans. Dedicated to deliver Chicago’s best food - Chicago style Hot Dogs wit’ the works...dragged through the garden on poppy seed buns with fresh cut fries, Italian Beef Sandwiches anyway you like, dipped or dry, sweet or hot. All served in true Authentic Chicago Style. 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. 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. Hurricane Mike’s Saloon (M-10) is a little neighborhood bar at 2639 Mall Drive, where everyone knows your name type of establishment and friendly staff. TV’s with the MLB and NFL packages, pool table, and full Florida Lottery games. Happy hour daily from opening to 7pm. Hours: Mon – Sat, 8am – 2:30am and Sun., noon – 2:30am.
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The Shop SRQ (G-2) offers flat-tops, fades, tapers, blowouts, razor cuts, and straight razor shaves. Owners, Erick and Dawn use a back to basics approach to grooming with a precise attention to personal detail. Their commitment to excellence has provided them with many loyal customers. They welcome the opportunity to earn your trust. Hours: Tues. – Fri. 8:30am – 6pm, Sat., 8:30am – 3pm. Closed on Sundays and Mondays. 6625 Gateway Ave, 941-626-4894. 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. Each staff member works hard to make sure you receive the best service and quality food so you’ll want to return often. Take a look at their mouth-watering menu at www.originalwordofmouth.com. Hours: Mon-Sun.: 8AM-2PM. 6604 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, 34231, 941-925-2400.
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Iberia Bank
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© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 27
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G-31
Eat Where The Locals Eat! Original Word of Mouth 6604 Gateway Ave. Sarasota, FL 34231
941-925-2400
HOURS: Monday - Sunday 8:00AM to 2PM www.originalwordofmouth.com
NEWERS N OW
M-10
S29 S28 S27 S26 S25 S24 S23 S22 S21 S20 S19 S18 S17 S16 S15 S14 S13 S12 S11 S10 S9 S8
Daily from open ‘til 7 PM All packaged liquor sold until 2 AM
• ALL DAY-EVERY DAY Mike’s Bud Select Brew - $1.50/Pints • Pool TableGolden Tee Megatouch FREE RIDES! • 12 TV’s with MLB and NFL ticket sports package • All Florida lottery games • Smokers Welcome!
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2639 Mall Drive
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941-923-9827 Mon.-Sat. 8 AM-2:30 AM Sun. 12 PM-2:30 AM
G-4
PICCOLO
THESHOPSRQINC.
Flat-Tops, Fades, Tapers, Blowouts and Razor Cuts
SRQ
Italian Market & Deli
G-2
“Straight Razor Shaves”
Combined 25+ Years Experience
941.626.4894 / 941.536.1656
Hot or Cold
Tonsorial Artistry
& Vegetarian Sandwiches
by
ERICKANDDAWNSBARBERSHOP.COM
Authentic New York Italian Market & Deli We carry a full line of Imported Cheeses, Boars Head Luncheon Meats, Pasta, Olive Oil, Assorted Imported Olives, Khorasan Wheat (ancient & organic grain), and more. G-47 GG-46
Specialty Italian gourmet items without the gourmet price
Come See Our New Location Store Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am - 6pm 6518 Gateway Ave.
941-923-2202
www.PiccoloMarket.com
6625 Gateway Ave.
Tonsorial Artistry by Erick & Dawn
Open Tues.-Fri. 8:30 AM-6 PM Sat. 8:30 AM - 3 PM Closed Sun. & Mon.
S-16 GG-4
28 SIESTA SAND April 2015 Featured Restaurant
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net By Debbie Flessner
|Alpine Steakhouse & Old-Fashioned Butcher Shop
Alpine Steakhouse has been a local, family-owned business for more than 40 years. A Sarasota staple for more than 40 years, the Alpine Steakhouse is a family-owned business that has evolved with its three generations of owners. It’s a German market, butcher shop, deli and restaurant all under the same chalet-style roof. But it hasn’t always been that way. In 1972, current owner Matt Rebhan’s grandfather Henry moved from New York to Sarasota. “He opened up the first store in 1973,” Rebhan said. “But at that time, it was more of a grocery store with a bakery and a meat market.” Later on Rebhan’s father Mark took over ownership, and in 2003, passed it over to his son. Today, one of the biggest draws for the business has to be the primary focal point in the dining area--the room-long meat case. “People come here for cuts they can’t get any other place, and specialty meats,” Rebhan said. “This is really an old-fashioned
butcher shop.” The words “old-fashioned” bring to mind connotations of quality products and personalized customer service, both of which are emphasized at Alpine. If a customer dining in the restaurant wants to go to the butcher case and pick out their steak, that’s fine. One can even walk over to the market section, which showcases a bevy of German foods, and pick up items to take home. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner, which include soups, salads, sandwiches, entrees and desserts--all fresh and homemade. But from the moment you walk in the door, it’s clear that the stars of the show are the meats. “Ultimately it’s a steakhouse,” Rebhan said. “We’re really known for our hand-cut, never-frozen meats, and we also carry Japanese Kobe.” In 2007, Alpine Steakhouse and the Rebhan family entered
the annals of pop culture when The Food Network and TV personality Guy Fieri came to the restaurant to film an episode for the network’s popular show “Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives.” Fieri wanted to feature another item for which the Alpine is wellknown--turducken. Originally created by a New Orleans chef, the turducken consists of a boneless chicken stuffed in a boneless duck, which is then stuffed in a boneless turkey . Inside are lots of goodies, like dressing, Andouille sausage, spinach and many other ingredients. “It’s kind of like Thanksgiving all in one bite,” Rebhan said. “It’s very colorful, and slowroasted for 15 hours. We ship the turduckens all around the U.S.” But no matter what is ordered at Alpine, one can be assured that it is fresh and completely homemade. All the salads, more than 40 different kinds of soups and many of the deli items are made right on site. Coming up is the Easter holiday and Alpine Steakhouse, as usual, will do a booming business. “We carry strictly domestic legs of lamb and racks from Colorado,” Rebhan said. “Then, of course, we’ll have fresh hams, smoked hams, fresh Polish Kielbasa, turducken, our tenderloins and rib roast.” To place orders for the holiday, or to inquire about Alpine’s extensive catering menu, call 941-922-3797. The restaurant is at 4520 South Tamiami Trail, and is open each day, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
ALPINE STEAKHOUSE
Alpine Steakhouse is known for its prime Midwestern beef.
If customers want, they can personally pick out the steak they want for dinner from the meat case.
Be sure to try our famous TurDucKen FOR SENIORS BY ACTIVE SENIORS®
Sarasota’s only old-fashioned Meat Market, Deli and Restaurant under one roof
Home of the Sarasota TurDucKen as seen on The Food Network with Guy Fieri the host of Diner’s, Drive-In’s and Dive’s
Companionship & In-Home Care A Safe and Reliable Source for Quality Care Since 1992
(941)
SLOW ROASTED
PRIME RIB DINNER $ w/choice of side...
17.95
Prime Aged Steaks, Chops, Seafood, NY Deli Meats, Sausage, Salads
Serving Sarasota Since 1975
Voted SaraSota’S BeSt Philly CheeSeSteak and ny reuBen!
924-0494
DAILY LIVING NEEDS
We Offer Complete Catering Services
OPEN DAILY
www.alpinesteak.com
4520 S. Tamiami Sarasota, FL 34231
941.922.3797 ®
To advertise in print or online contact: Bob or Emy Stein at 941.349.0194 Send editorial and/or photos via email to: islandvp@verizon.net
HOURLY • OVERNIGHT • 24 HOUR CARE
A Nurse Registry Providing: Personal Care and Homemaker/Companion Services
Judith Cuppy, President
www.seniorhomecompanions.com
Bonded, Insured & Licensed in the State of Florida with the AHCA NR#30211323 & HSC 5023
Published by Island Visitor Publishing, LLC Contributing Writers and Photographers will be noted with bylines. Guest commentary not necessarily the opinion of island Visitor Publishing, LLC Reproduction without written permission prohibited. We reserve the right to refuse any advertisement. All business bios are extensions of the display advertisements, the Island Visitor is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.
P.O. BOX 35086, SIESTA KEY, FL 34242
www.siestasand.net
www.siestasand.net 941.349.0194
April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 29
Snapshots of Island Visitors
Wake & Shake
Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography
Just roll out of bed...your hair looks great! Shampoo and towel dry.... and you’re done! The style is in the cut, not the blowdry, so you don’t have to fuss with your hair to look good... even with fine, limp hair... and my new steam color process creates richer brunettes and spectacular blondes. The colors go deeper and last longer, yet are far more gentle to the hair. By Appointment Only with Ian:
941.356.0295 www.iansalon.com
Left: Elisa, Jesenia age 2, Antonio age 8, Andrea age 7, Alejandro age 6, from Tampa. Right: Keelyn, Luke from NC.
Soulfully Yours Donnarose
Q: : Dear Donnarose, I’ve been dating this woman for 2 years. However, at this point, she said she needed some space, and I haven’t heard from her in a week. What are you getting on this? ~ Thanks, Jeremy A: ~ “Closing the door to accepting and appreciating yourself, opens the door for others to do the same towards you.” ~Donnarose Melvin Sometimes when a person tells you they need space, the Universe is setting this up, because it’s really you who needs it. Meaning you were starting to lose your inner power, and your happiness was only validated when your girlfriend was doing all the right things. The pressure was felt by her, and the both of you were becoming unbalanced. Energetically, you two are definitely still connected, and she’ll be back. But first you have to get back to remembering who you are again, which is a masterpiece in motion, filled with love. Also, keep in mind, that before someone can respect and love you, and make you a priority, you have to first make yourself a priority. So in the interim before she returns to you, use this time to nurture and care for yourself. Look in the mirror and accept and embrace what you see, as is. And then build from there if you feel you’d like to improve in some areas. But the key is to focus on you. And when you really start to appreciate who you are, and know you are worthy and deserve respect and loving treatment, your girlfriend will feel this energy from afar, and will come back and give you this very same treatment. So for now, sit back in the canoe, let go of the oars, and stay right where you are...focused on appreciating you. ~ ♥ Q: Dear Donnarose, I’m usually fine with my family members. But then I get angry or really annoyed at them though it may not seem justified. How do I stay in positive mode more often? ~Regards, Karen
A: ~ ~ “To keep your family encounters on an even keel, make sure it’s first for yourself, the love you feel.“ ~Donnarose Melvin It appears that it’s your fluctuating state of energy that’s the culprit. The thing is, when we remain in a positive state of energy where our vibrational frequency is higher, our perspective changes for the better towards our external environment. So, to remain more consistently fine and positive towards your family, you have to first be fine with yourself. When you feel the onset of anger towards your spouse, mother, etc., stop yourself and do an inner self check. Meaning, stop immediately and ask yourself what’s really bothering you. And, often you’ll probably notice a build-up of feeling either unloved, unappreciated, unheard, ignored, etc., by a family member or even someone who’s not related. Then do some peacemaking towards whomever you feel has hurt you, and remember to forgive yourself as well. Then make it a habit to think of something you’re grateful for about yourself, as we sometimes seem to take it out on others when we’re not appreciating ourselves. After doing all the above consistently, you’ll be taking more releasing breaths, and will find yourself being “fine” with your family, (and yourself) much more often. ~ ♥ Donnarose Melvin is a professional psychic, medium and energy healer, whose pleasure is to assist clients worldwide. She incorporates knowledge from her degree in psychology, along with her clairvoyant, clairaudient, clairsentient and empathic gifts to guide her clients towards peace and success. Please send your questions to SoulfullyYoursDonnarose@gmail.com or private message her via facebook: Soulfully Yours Donnarose. Donnarose will select questions each month to share with you. She regrets that unpublished questions cannot be answered individually. If you’d like an intuitive reading, contact Donnarose at the email address above.
MarinerWord Search
WORD LIST: TheWORD Palm Beaches MarinerWord Search SEARCH WORD LIST Beachfront resort Birding Trail WORD LIST Botanical garden Beachfront resort Crabmeat martini Birding Trail Easternmost town Botanical garden Equestrian Crabmeat martini Five star dining Easternmost Flagler Drive town Flamingo Park Equestrian Gilded Age Five star dining Golf course Flagler Drive Gumbo Limbo Flamingo Park Jupiter Lighthouse Gilded Age Lake Worth Lagoon Golf course Luxury hotel GumboPromenade Limbo Mango Mar a Lago Jupiter Lighthouse Mega yacht Lagoon Lake Worth Opulence Luxury hotel Palm Beach Mall Mango Promenade Palm Tran Mar a Lago Parasailing MegaRun yacht Poker Opulence Raceway Palm Poinciana Beach Mall Royal Social elite Palm Tran Treasure Coast Parasailing Worth Avenue
Poker Run Raceway Royal Poinciana Answers on Page 19
The Palm Beaches
What’s Happening
Weekly Classes & Events: • FREE YOGA Mon-Wed.-Fri.Sat. 10am. Classes held between blue and green lifeguard station. Call 941-320-6693 to register or www.yogaonsiestabeach.com • NIA Tues. & Thurs., 9a.m., Siesta Public Beach(yellow lifeguard chair) Joy Donation: $12. Contact Kathy Oravec at 941-724-9719 or Kathyoravec@gmail.com • SUNSET FUSION – Every Mon & Wed, 45 minutes before sunset. Beach access #4. For additional info and to register online go to: www.studiorubylake.com • WEEKLY DRUM CIRCLE: Every Sunday about an hour before sunset. South of the main pavillion. You can particpate or watch this weekly gathering dance, hoop, play the drum or other musical instument and enjoy the spectacular Siesta sunset. • WEEKLY MUSIC ON THE BEACH - Every sunny Saturday, Mike Sales will be serenading beachgoers from noon – 3 p.m. near the concession stand at Siesta Key public beach. • WEEKLY FARMER’S MARKET - Every Sunday from 8am – 2pm in Davidson’s Plaza in the Village. 5124 Ocean Blvd. Produce, Plants & Flowers, www.floridamariner.com Music, Art, Organic Skincare and Prepared Foods. Listen to live www.floridamariner.com music while you shop. Answers on page 36
On the beach… • Easter Sunrise Service – April 4th, 6:30AM - Pine Shores will be hosting the 56th Annual Sunrise Service near the concession stand on Siesta beach. Everyone is welcome and there is no cost. Parking fills up quickly so come early. For more information, contact 941-922-1597. www.pineshorespres.org • 29th Annual Run for the Turtles - April 4, 6:30-9:00AM It’s time to dust off those running shoes and get ready for the 29th Annual Run for the Turtles. The Run supports sea turtle conservation and research at Mote Marine Laboratory and is the Sea Turtle Conservation Program’s major fundraiser — it’s helping us help sea turtles! The event is happening at Siesta Key Public Beach, 948 Beach Road. The registration Fees are Adults: $35 On Race Day: Registration begins 6:30 a.m. at the Siesta Key Gazebo, south of the pavilion. The 1-Mile Fun Run or Walk begins at 7:30 a.m. and the 5K Manasota Track Club-Sanctioned Run begins at
8 a.m. More Info: Contact Paula Clark, (941) 388-4441, ext. 357 or pclark@mote.org • 15th Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Games – April 4th, 9AM to Noon - The Siesta Key Village Association is sponsoring the 2015 Easter Party for Children Ages 1-6. Each child receives an Easter Stuffed Animal and an Easter Egg Hunt Goody Bag stuffed with prizes, Saturday April 4, from 9 am to noon at Beach Access # 5. Face painters will be there and opportunities to ride the trolley, tour the Siesta Key ambulance and fire truck and participate in other fun family entertainment. Sheriff Dept. fingerprinting kits are available. Registration is limited to first 125 children. There is a $10 registration fee per child. For additional information contact Roz at 941-349-2770 ext.: 227 • Moonlight Movie – April 4th, Sunset - The Sarasota County parks and Recreation, in partnership with the Sarasota Film Festival, will be presenting, “Finding Nemo.” Join the community for a free screening of Walt Disney’s family film with your toes in the sand and under the stars. For more information, contact the Sarasota County Call Center at 941-861-5000 and ask about the Moonlight Movie Series. The event will take place on Siesta beach near the concession stand. • 7th Annual Women’s Collegiate Volleyball Tournament – April 11 & 12, 8:30AM – 2PM. - Come watch the top athletes compete in what is quickly becoming one of the country’s fastest growing collegiate sports. This NCAA Tournament promises to deliver volleys and spikes to remember. It is the largest collegiate sand volleyball tournament. See www. fiestaonsiestakey.com for more info. • T-Rec Beach Party – April 15th, 10:30 a.m. until noon Calling all teens and adults with disabilities, their families and caregivers; come dance to your favorite tunes while enjoying the beauty and fun of the beach. Light, healthy refreshments will be served. Bring a brown bag lunch. To reserve your spot, contact Mimi Bolden at 941-486-2595 or register at www.parksonline.scgov.net We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of this information. However, you should always call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.
30 SIESTA SAND April 2015 Arts on the Horizon Do you enjoy Downtown? How about Friday nights? Here’s your line-up for Friday nights, Downtown! • Every Friday Night it’s Live from Downtown – It’s Friday Nights! 6 to 9pm Friday night downtown is hopping… featuring Live performances by musician, entertainers & performing Arts in a different downtown Sarasota neighborhood each week. Every month a new theme to enjoy Sarasota’s unique arts appeal… First Friday of the month – Main St at Five Points Park & Palm Ave Second Friday of the month – Burns Square – south of Main St. just past Ringling Blvd & S. Pineapple. Third Friday of the month - Towles Court – Adams & Washington. (on Adams Lane) Forth Friday of the month - Rosemary district & Historic Downtown Village - Fruitville & Central …… • April 1 at 2pm. Both Houses at the Asolo http:// www.asolorep.org/
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net By Jaye Clements Venice Airport Festival Grounds. 941-412-0402 www. sharkstoothfest.com • April 10 to 19 – Sarasota Film Festival – the best cinema experience around, highlighting independent film makers, including kids! http:// www.sarasotafilmfestival.com/ • April 10 to May 3 Chicken Soup at the newest downtown theatre! UrbaniteTheatre is located at: 1487 Second Street, Sarasota www.urbanitetheatre. com more info at 941-321-1397 • April 11 & 12, 10am to 5pm - Siesta Fiesta, Siesta Key Village. • April 16, 5pm to 8pm - Ringling by the Bay – Featuring the Venturas. Admission is included with Art After Five. http://www.ringling.org/events/ ringling-bay-venturas • April 17 to 19 - Suncoast Boat Show in downtown Sarasota at the Bayfront Marina. 100s of boats, yachts and accessories. Fri & Sat: 10am - 7pm, Sunday 10am - 5 pm. Adults $10, under 15 free. • April 17 – Art Market in Nokomis. Live Music & local Art vendors. 106 Pocono Trail E. Nokomis www. thenokomisartmarket.com • April 18, 10am to 7pm - Suncoast BBQ & Bluegrass Bash at the Venice Airport park, BBQ teams will be competing for a $20,000! There will be a chili cook off, bake-off & Live Bluegrass. Free admission. Venice Airport Festival Grounds, 595 Airport Ave E., Venice, FL. • April 18, 4pm to 7:30pm - Barefoot Beach Bazaar with a large selection of handmade artisan items. Nokomis Beach Plaza, 100 Casey Key Road, Nokomis.
• April 1 at 7:30pm American Pie at the Florida Studio Theatre http://tickets.floridastudiotheatre.org/ single/EventDetail.aspx?p=27576 • April 1 – 4, PAL Sailor Circus under the Big Top. The Greatest Little Show on Earth celebrates the Circus Arts! 2075 Bahai Vista Street, Sarasota. Adults $16/ under 12 is $12. http://circusarts.org/ for tickets and show times.
• April 18 & 19, 10am to 5pm St. Armand’s Fine Art Festival. Artists’ works of art! Sculpture, painting, jewelry, photography and more. Free admission. St. Armand’s Circle. • April 19, 3pm – Hear & Now at the Sarasota Opera House. A concert performed by young gifted musicians. http://tickets.sarasotaopera.org/single/ EventDetail.aspx?p=1659
• April 1, 2 – FlashDance at the Van Wezel - http:// www.vanwezel.org/
• April 19 – 10am to 2pm. Family Spring Fling at the Van Wezel - www.vanwezel.org
• April 2 at 2pm. Our Betters at the Asolo http:// www.asolorep.org/
• April 19, 10am to 5pm - Sarasota Earth Day at Oscar Scherer State Park. Free admission! Enjoy nature & wildlife…
• April 2, Brown Bag Concert 12pm to 1pm at Phillippi Estate Park. Free admission. Bring a blanket or chair along with your lunch and enjoy the music! Phillippi Estate Park, gazebo area, 5500 South Tamiami Trail, Sarasota.
• April 23 - 25, Gulf Coast Open Fishing Tournament, fishing, prizes & entertainment. Proceeds benefit MakeA-Wish Foundation. http://www.gulfcoastopen.net/ event/
• April 2, 8pm to 11pm - Ringling Underground. 941-359-5700 www.ringling.org
• April 24 at 7:30 Celtic Woman – at the Van Wezel www.vanwezel.org
• April 2 & Every Thursday - Art After Five - Ringling Museum grounds at the Bayfront Gardens. 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. Admission $10. 941-359-5700
• April 24, 6 to 9pm - Music in the Park at Riverwalk in Bradenton. Free Admission! Bring a chair or blanket & enjoy some Blues! at the Mosaic Amphitheater. Every month until May. Downtown Bradenton, Riverwalk.
• April 3, 10, 17, 24, 2 to 4pm - Jazz at Two featuring talented Jazz musicians. Universalist Church of Sarasota, 3975 Fruitville Rd, Sarasota. For more info: 941 366-1552. • April 3,10,17, 24, 7 to 9pm - Friday Night Live Music at Centennial Park at the Gazebo in the park. Downtown Venice. Bring a chair or blanket. Free admission. • April 4 – Finding Nemo movie night at Siesta Key beach! Begins at sunset, for more info call 941-8615000. • April 5, 12, 19, 26 at 2pm - Ski-A-Rees Water Ski Team at the Ski-A-Rees Stadium. 1602 Ken Thompson Parkway (behind Mote Marine Aquarium)
• April 25, 11am to 8pm Suncoast Blues Festival, featuring headliner Bobby Rush, plus Smokin’ Joe Kubek & Bnois King, Eden Brent, Mr. Sipp, Zac Harmon and Vasti Jackson. Tickets $30 until April 1, $40 at the gate. Sarasota Fairgrounds, 30000 Ringling Blvd, Sarasota. • April 25, 12pm to 6pm Braden River Bluegrass Festival and Gumbo Cook off featuring headliner, James King, HWY 41 SOUTH, Beaumont!, Sonya Stratton and Straight South plus a gumbo cook off. $20 includes gumbo tasting. Linger Lodge Restaurant & campgrounds, 7205 85th St., Court E, Bradenton. • April 26, 11:30am to 2pm - Ride the Beaches by Sharky’s on the Pier. A 70 mile, 35 mile and 15 mile ride. Check in starts at 6:30am. (Breakfast available) The ride benefits the Live Strong Foundation. $40 registration. Sharky’s is at 1600 Harbor Drive, Venice.
• April 10 to 12 - Shark’s Tooth Festival - Fri. 4-9pm, Sat. 10am-9pm, Sun. 10am-5pm. Live music & more!
SERVICES
SERVICES
ACCOMMODATIONS: • Best Western Plus Siesta Key – AAA -3 Diamond Property, Free shuttle service to and from Siesta Key 941-924-4900, 6600 S. Tamiami Trl., Sarasota • Siesta 4 Rent - Vacation Rentals, from studios to 5 bedrooms. Serving Siesta Key since 1997, 941349-5500 • Robasota Real Estate – Annual and Seasonal Rentals, 941-9261800, ext. 102
kayaks, scooters and more, free pickup and delivery anywhere on the key. 5255 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key Village. 941-554-4242 • Siesta Key Bike & Kayak – Located on Siesta Key in Capt Curts Village serving Siesta Key, Lido Beach and Sarasota. We offer bikes, kayak rentals, kayak eco tours, paddleboards and scooters. 1224 Old Sickney Pt Rd. 941-3460891 • Siesta Sports Rentals – Located on Siesta Key, bike, kayak, kayak tours, scooter, children strollers and car seats. Delivery and pickup available, 6551 Midnight Pass Rd, 941-346-1797
HEALTH: • A Bridge for Independence provides in home companion services including companionship, transportation, light housekeeping, medication reminders and meal preparation and planning. Call us at 866-2794390, FL License #230517 • Senior Home Companions – companionship and In-Home care. daily living needs, hourly, overnight, 24-hour care, 941-9240494 • Siesta Key Massage & Therapy Center – Relieve all that pent –up tension and improve circulation with a soothing massage or facial by Ali. Call to book your appointment today. 941-349-0408 • Massage Heights -1-hour massage $49.99, custom facial $59.99 – intro offers, 4948 S. Tamiami Trl, 941-927-1030 (See Display ad in this paper) • Massage Experience Siesta Key Open 7-day a week. 5138A Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4833 TRANSPORTATION: • Dollar Limo – holds up to 10 people and is cheaper than a D.U.I or taxi. Call 941-735-4732 • Jonny’s Original Free Ride – The Original Ride the Key Free service on Siesta to anywhere, everyday from 10 AM – 2 AM. Driver tips only. Call 941-928-9200. • Siesta Key Free Rides – Siesta Key Free island shuttle for beach, village, condo and tours – tips only. Electric vehicles. Call 941952-8294 • Sun Ride Pedicab – Eco-friendly Pedicabs. Siesta Key Tours and rides – tips only, 941-343-3400 SIESTA KEY AND SARASOTA REALTORS • Looking for luxury waterfront homes contact Paula Zynda with Premier Sotheby’s 941266-1850 email PaulaZynda@ SotherbysRealty.com • Your Siesta Dunes and Landings Preferred Realtors, Judy Greene 941-350-0451 and Tara Lamb 941266-4873 with Michael Sanders & Company 5100 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key 34242 JudyGreene@ MichaelSanders.com • Your Siesta Key Realtor... 22 YEARS OF MAKING IT HAPPEN ON SIESTA KEY... I have sold hundreds of homes on Siesta Key. Curious about your home’s value in today’s market? Call me for an evaluation BENNY KIMSEY REALTOR® 941.400.7212 RealEstateGuyFL@yahoo.com | www.yourrealestateguy.com ERA REAL ESTATE • Concierge Realtors we work with you from beginning to end to make a smooth transition. Andrea Smith Coldwell Banker Residential Real Estate. Call today for a FREE Market Analysis of your home. 941-320-7020
• April 7 – 26. The Cherry Orchard at the Asolo. http:// asolorep.org/shows/the-cherry-orchard/2014-2015 • April 9, 5pm to 8pm Courtyard Swing at the Ringling Museum. Free with Art After Five admission. 5401 Bay Shore Road, Sarasota. 941-359-5700
Classifieds
Place your service ad here for $6.00 for 15 words and $.10 for each additional word. Copy must be submitted with payment on or before the 15th of the month prior to publication
• April 26 – Kathy Griffin – at the Van Wezel http://www.vanwezel.org/
SPORT RENTALS: • Robin Hood Rentals – for all your Siesta Key rental needs with a wide variety segways, bikes,
BEACH & BABY EQUIPMENT RENTALS: • ABC Rentals – We are family owned and operated baby and equipment rental and retail store. We provide top quality baby equipment such as cribs, highchairs, strollers and car seats. Beach rental equipment includes umbrellas, beach hammocks, cabanas and beach chairs. View our complete inventory on line www.abcbabyrental.com 2300 Bee Ridge Rd Ste. 204 Sarasota 941-929-1850 FISHING CHARTERS: • CB’s Saltwater Outfitters – CB’s Saltwater Outfitters is an ORVIS Endorsed Outfitter Fishing Charter Service serving Siesta Key as well as Longboat Key, Lido Key, Sarasota and Venice. Our veteran guides offer exciting Fishing Adventures for anglers of all ages from novice to the expert. We offer Inshore, Backcountry and Offshore fishing charters for both fly-fishing and spin anglers. They will do their best to make sure your stay in our Sarasota, Siesta Key area is memo-rable. Let us arrange an exciting trip to the shallow water back country to sightfish for snook, red-fish, speckled trout and other species, or trips to the inshore reefs of the Gulf of Mexico for giant tarpon, bonito, cobia, tripletail, jack crevalle, kingfish, spanish mackerel. Fly and Spin fishing for all ages. 1240 Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key. (941)349-4400 HOME IMPROVEMENT • Hawk’s Nest Construction Whether you’re building a new home, remodeling your existing home, creating an outdoor living area, or safeguarding your home – one call does it all. We offer a full range of building and remodeling services under one roof. 4525A S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34231, Office 941.650.9499 • L.L. Armstrong, LLC – A Painting Co. This family run company has been in business since 1978 and specializes in custom painting, removal of virtually all types of wall coverings. Reference available upon request. Call or email: 941323-5074 or armstronglle5@aol.com • Wilson Windows installs quality uPVC windows, doors, conservatories, fascias & soffits. The REHAU70mm system used comes from one of Europe’s leading uPVC manufacturer, which means very visible benefits for you. The uPVC frames never need painting and will not warp, rot or discolour over time. For more information, call 941-9211113 or see their website: www.wilson-windows.com
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941-266-9250
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LIMOUSINE
941-735-4732
Girls’ Night Out • Birthdays Weddings • Quinceañeras • Etc. Airport Drop-Off • School Pick-Ups Cheaper than a D.U.I. and a Taxi. 10 Added Every 90 Minutes For Fuel. Limo hold up to 10 people.
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Hand Wash Cleaning and Repair
Skin CanCer LaSer, Botox
Fine Oriental Rug Gallery Serving Sarasota Since 1980
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1952 Field Road Sarasota, Florida 34231
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T: 941.926.SKIN F: 941.926.8811 www.dermatologyexperts.com
(Corner of US 41 & Field Rd.)
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R. BRuce Whittinghill, llc
Call or e-mail for quotes and references sarasotabruce1@comcast.net Serving SaraSota and Surrounding areaS Since 1979
(941) 955-1864
SERVICING
Siesta Key Beach Siesta Village Turtle Beach
APPRAISALS ✦
DRIVER TIPS ONLY
941.366.6511
Restaurants and Accommodations Operating 10AM to 2AM Daily
www.JonnysOriginalFreeRide.com
www.ShahAbbasrug.com
with
Donnarose
Daniel 941-323-5074
HOUSE WATCH SERVICES Affordable and Dependable Service Solutions For Your Home While You Are Away
15-20 MINUTE RESPONSE TIME (Based upon traffic)
Gutter Cleaning Psychic Medium Alain’s Where Quality Comes First Readings • PRESSURE CLEANING • Clean Glass Windows & Doors
a painting company
armstrongllee5@aol.com
COMPLIMENTARY PICK UP and DELIVERY ✦
4801 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, Florida 34231
L.L. Armstrong, LLC
• Custom Painters • Removal of Wall Covering
OFF
941-928-9200
RIDE THE KEY FREE
941.735.5173
SoulfullyYoursDonnarose
Healing the Heart ~ Reconnecting to the Soul
• Leaf Bagging We Clean • Down Spouts • Dryer Vents FREE estimates on one-time service • Pool Cages or on-going maintenance
Licensed/Insured
941-914-3936
Commercial/Residential
Olde Fashion Barber Shop
Tapers • Flattops • Fades • Styling • Razor Cuts ther” 941-312-6001 “Hot La South Gate Barber Shop
Family Practitioners • Pediatrics-Geratrics • Urgent Care
(Across from Southgate Mall)
Pierre Nedelcovych, M.D.
Walk-Ins Welcome
US 41 Office 941-927-1234 • Siesta Key Office 941-312-6708
2081 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239 Monday-Friday 9 AM-6 PM; Saturday 9 AM-4PM
www.SouthgateBarbers.com
FAAFP FAAUCM
www.sarasotamedcenter.com info@sarasotamedcenter.com
Transportation for everyone on the Sun Coast Friendliest Ride In Town
Environmentally Conscious Laundry and Dry Cleaning Service
Free Pick Up & Delivery Service from your home or business
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32 SIESTA SAND
April 2015
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net
Cheryl Gaddie, Siesta Key interior designer Cheryl Gaddie may have a wide and frequent smile, but it quickly disappears when she talks about her least favorite decorating trend. “Ceramic wood,” she says. “If I’m going to use a wood floor, I want the texture and youthfulness of wood floors. If I’m using tile, I want a nice, porcelain floor.” Gaddie is the founder of CG Interior Design, on Siesta Key, and designer for some of the most opulent homes and successful businesses in the area. Though she says her specialization lies with smaller spaces, like condominiums, her firm just recently finished work on the Daiquiri Deck at St. Armands Circle and she has a large project coming up for an oral surgeon’s office. A Fargo, North Dakota native, Gaddie received her degree in business management and began working in the building industry at the age of 24. In 1981, she started her own design business and by 2005, she had moved her firm to the Sarasota area--at the beginning of what would turn out to be the most severe economic downturn since the Great Depression. But she wasn’t deterred, and soon established herself as one of the area’s premier designers. Gaddie says that two of the things that make her so good at her job are her ability to listen and to gauge exactly what a client wants. “I really get to know the person
and learn the functions of the place,” she said. “It really is all about function in design.” And creating functional space is essential when dealing with small areas. A project that CG Interior Design recently completed was a total redesign of a 1,400 square foot Siesta Key condominium. The property had been purchased by an out-of-town couple with two daughters, one in high school and one in college, and they intended to use it as a vacation home. Gaddie was able to design a two-bedroom, two-bath comfortable space, with a guest room/sleeper den, which made it a perfect place to bring additional friends for the daughters. She said that a “universal design” approach, making a design comfortable for people of all ages, worked well there. As far as what most buyers on Siesta Key are looking for these days, Gaddie says the key words are “value properties.” “People are looking for a deal on something, and most of those on Siesta Key like that will have to be fixed up,” she said. “But buyers need to remember that there are a lot of restrictions, because of the FEMA rules, so they need to hire licensed contractors, or they could be devaluing their property.” Gaddie says she understands that property owners may be a little squeamish about spending money to redesign or update their new
purchase. That’s when she would suggest creating a long-term design plan, instead of trying to pay for everything at once. “People work hard for their money and things are so expensive, so I say take it slowly and do it right,” she said. “You don’t trend buy and you don’t trend design.” In other words, don’t fall for today’s latest design flavor. Instead, buy classic, timeless pieces that fit into your overall design plan. And one more thing, don’t overlook the importance of color and its ability to quickly change the look of a room. “If you want to spruce up your place, use paint and use color,” Gaddie said. “It’s not expensive, and color can do so much for a space--it can even expand and contract the room.” Though Gaddie lives and breathes interior design and probably knows more about it than most people will ever forget, she said she can foresee a time in the not-so-distant future when that may no longer be the case. She is nearing complet ion on a Masters degree in interior architecture and design, from a private school in San Francisco. And with that degree she plans to--teach. “As we get older, it’s important for us to give back,” she said. “Teaching is a way for me to do that.” For more information about Cheryl Gaddie and CG Interior Design, visit the website at www.cginteriordesign.com.
By Debbie Flessner
Cheryl Gaddie, founder of CG Interior Design, moved to the area from North Dakota in 2005
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April 2015
Snapshots from around Siesta Key
Not only does Siesta Shawn appreciate our #1 beach, but also the path to get on it. Photo by Donnarose Melvin.
Another glorious Siesta sunset. Photo by Donnarose Melvin
SKA meeting notes Michael Shay next introduced Tom Harmer, Sarasota County Administrator, who reiterated that the County is in good financial shape. “We have 2100 employees in 17 different departments. We are careful and frugal. Customer Service is our primary goal, and 93% of the community is satisfied with County Services.” He pointed out that 600-700 employees would reach retirement within the next few years. When asked what he thought was the most important issue being faced by the County, Tom Harmer said it was unfunded capital needs. Maintenance of structures has been deferred and the County needs to maintain what we already have.
Continued from page 2
Citizens are welcome to contact the County by phone at 941.861.5000. Or they may send e-mails through the website at www.scgov.net.
Comments from Membership
Sarasota Real Estate Trends
Questions came from the floor concerning traffic flow on Midnight Pass, parking in the Village, bridge openings, and the like. Michael Shay, Alan Maio, Tom Harmer and For more information call Capt. Walsh fielded these questions. KEY SOLUTIONS (941)894-1255 Or visit REAL ESTATE The Annual Breakfast Meeting was *Statistics provided by MFR MLS www.keysolutionsrealestate.com adjourned. The next SKA Meeting is Thursday, April 2, at 4:30 pm: St. Boniface 2015 is off to a hot start as February’s market stats look better than those of a year ago! Although Church, Room “F”, 5615 Midnight Pass, condo sales fell by 1.2%, single family home sales were 585, an increase of 10% over 2014. Average days on mark also fell by over 18% and sale prices increased on both condos and houses for February. Siesta Key.
Blooming this month: Brazilian Red Cloak Megaskepasma Erythrochlamys: Brazilian Red Cloak has stunning upright scarlet flower cones, with white shrimp like flowers extending out of the centers of the dark pink to deep red flowers. Each flower cone can be up to a foot tall. The large green leaves give it a very tropical look. It is a tall upright shrub that can reach 12 -15 feet, but can be trimmed to 6-7 foot and still bloom well. It flowers most of the year, but blooms most heavily in the spring and autumn. This zone 9b -11 shrub thrives in Sarasota. The Brazilian Red cloak is an under used plant that is becoming more known due to its sheer beauty. When people see this plant at a botanical garden or specialty nursery they cannot resist putting
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 33
one in their own garden. You can see two Brazilian red cloaks in full bloom at the Sarasota Garden Club Botanical Gardens this spring. The Sarasota Garden Club is open free of charge to the public. Tip: Brazilian red cloak does well in full sun to part shade, and likes regular watering. Submitted by Jeannie Weyrick, Sarasota Garden Club
34 SIESTA SAND
April 2015
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net
Accommodations Locator Map
Š Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012
www.siestasand.net 941.349.0194
April 2015
ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC 35
Association Matters, Legally Speaking |Resources Both members and directors often wonder how they can learn more about the laws and rules that govern condominium and homeowner associations in Florida. In addition to several “handbooks” on Florida association law which are available for purchase online and in local bookstores, and available in some libraries, information regarding the operation of Florida’s condominiums, and to a much lesser degree homeowner associations, may be obtained directly from the Florida Division of Condominiums, Time Shares, and Mobile Homes website: www.myfloridalicense.com/dbpr/ lsc/condominiums.html For condominiums this website includes free forms and publications, frequently asked questions and answers, and a link to the statutes and rules governing condominium associations. Under the “frequently asked questions” link, you will find “official” answers to questions regarding records access, management, fines, leasing, elections, recall, the use of proxies, voting rights, budgets, assessments, financial reporting, use of association funds,
etc. In addition, this site contains links to the condominium ombudsman and provides contact information for the Division and guidance on how to file a complaint, how to seek an arbitration proceeding to resolve owner/ association disputes, and how to seek a “declaratory statement” from “the Division.” The decisions rendered by the Division in arbitrations between an owner and a condominium association are also available through this site and are “searchable.” (But beware that the decision you locate may, or may not, be relevant to your specific set of circumstances and documents and may have been overruled by a court decision.) While the Division has much more limited jurisdiction over homeowner associations, it can address issues related to elections and recall of directors and, therefore, there is information regarding those issues on the site plus a link to the relevant statutes and rules
By Vanda Y. Bayliss, Esq
governing homeowner They will, however, try to direct you solution and offer to help! to the relevant portions of the statutes associations. NOTE: This will be Vanda’s final As you may recall or administrative rules or to other article. The Siesta Sand would like from an earlier column, resources that might be helpful. to thank Vanda for her helpful each member of the Thanks for reading and remember, contributions each month and wish board of a homeowner if you are going to complain about her the best in her future endeavors. o r c o n d o m i n i u m how your association is run, offer a association is required Answers to the WORD SEARCH from page 29 www.floridamariner.com to certify in writing to the association secretary, Answers from within 90Page days 22 of being elected or appointed to the board, that he or she has read all of the governing documents and will work to uphold such documents to the best of his or her ability. Alternatively, the director may submit a certificate of satisfactory completion of a class offered or approved by the Division. (See Section 718.112(2) (d) 4.b., Florida Statutes, for more information.) The Division website contains a schedule of (limited) free classes plus a link to other Division approved classes and a sample “certification form.” As a taxpayer, the Division is there to serve you. You may call the Division with your questions, but note that the person taking your call will not likely be an attorney and will not provide you specific legal advice.
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36 SIESTA SAND
April 2015
941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net
Island Girl This months Island Girl is Selina, from Minneapolis now living in Sarasota. Since she relaxes on Siesta Beach every week and enjoys boating and jet skiing, Selina considers herself a genuine Island Girl. After four years of nursing school she decided her true passion was fashion and modeling and not long ago opened “The Pink Hanger”, a women’s consignment and boutique shop in Sarasota. Selina is modeling Floridita Swimwear. www.floriditaswimwear.com
Selina
If you would like to be considered for our next Island Girl, contact us at islandvp@verizon.net (You must be at least 18 years old to participate)