IV Siesta Sand - June 2015 by Brion Palmer

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JUNE 2015 | 941.349.0194 | ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC | www.SiestaSand.net | COMPLIMENTARY

SAND CASTLES

Big Pass Dredging Then and Now |Convergence of events halted plans to dredge Big Pass in early 90s By Roger Drouin

Jamaica Royale is a beachfront resort of 175 units

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ARTIST OF THE MONTH

Twenty one years ago—long enough for many to forget—three events converged to kill plans that would have scraped sand from Big Pass to stabilize two local beaches. A pivotal lawsuit filed and won by the Siesta Key Association, a key decision by state environmental officials, and a City Commission 4-1 vote stopped two separate proposals to use sand from several locales in Big Pass and a shoal off Siesta to shore up beaches on Venice and Lido Key. In the first and larger proposal, Venice and the Army Corps of Engineers wanted to dredge sand from the pass and transport that sand down to Venice to be used during a renourishment. In the other project, a smaller amount of sand from the pass would be used to stabilize Lido’s shoreline. Advocates involved in the battle to stop the dredging and

elected officials at the time recall just how close these projects came to fruition. In fact, the effort to mine Big Pass for sand for Venice—initiated before the city’s plan to dredge—had already secured a permit from the state. “We were worried about how this would compromise the shoal off Siesta that protects Siesta,” said Cheryl Duley, who was a member of the original Save Our Sand Committee, an ad hoc committee of the Siesta Key Association. The Save our Sand group was formed in response to the threat of a dredged Big Pass. “It was a joint effort with all the associations on the Key,” Duley said about the Save our Sand Committee. “If we had done nothing, if the committee had not been formed, they would have dredged,” Duley told Siesta Sand. “I have no doubts in my mind that would

See accompanying article on page 31, about the flawed modeling behind the Big Pass dredging. have happened.” The battle over the Venice

project was so contentious it resulted in one county commissioner losing their seat. “I would say one lesson is that people become really passionate about their beaches,” said Nora Patterson, former county commissioner and a city commissioner in the early 1990s. “Watch out!” Continued on page 31

Stolen bicycles recovered at a cost By Roger Drouin The artistic vision of Nadja Marks-Shafton

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FEATURED MUSICIAN

An interview with Christian Becker

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GREAT EATS Chianti celebrates second anniversary

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Mike Lewis, co-owner of Siesta Sports Rentals, has had bicycles stolen over the past 10 years. But typically he never sees the stolen bikes again. When three bicycles were stolen sometime overnight on April 7, however, the outcome turned out to be different. The three brandnew Trek hybrid bicycles were stolen from vacationers who had rented them, but the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office found the bikes. Deputies had discovered the bikes at two different Sarasota pawn shops after checking serial numbers in the pawn-shop database. “The police phoned us and said ‘we think we have your stolen bikes,’” Lewis said. Deputies then worked with Lewis to compare serial numbers to confirm the bicycles were in fact the stolen ones. A deputy then interviewed Robert Joseph Bennett Jr., 36, of Siesta Key, and after admitting to stealing the bicycles, Bennett was charged

with dealing in stolen property and providing false information to a pawn broker. “In this case, the police did a good job,” Lewis said. Yet the good news ended with the good police work. When it came to retrieving the bicycles, Lewis encountered an obstacle. Two separate pawn shops told him he would have to pay the two pawn shops a total of $275 to get the stolen bicycles back. Deputies told Lewis that under Florida law, pawn shops have the right to request money from the rightful owner of stolen items before giving the items back. That is unless a judge orders them to return the items. Most know of laws that prevent pawn shops from dealing in stolen goods. But Florida Statue 539 actually protects the pawn shop if a good is stolen. News of the law confounded Lewis. Continued on page 30

Smoking and joking! Mark and son Matt Rebhan, owners of Alpine Steakhouse and “Old-fashioned Butcher Shop” spend everyday doing what fathers across the country do on Father’s Day. Salute to all you grilling dads. 4520 S. Tamiami, Sarasota, 34231, 941-922-3797.

New Rules for Kayak/Paddle Board Rentals Postponed Again By Robert Frederickson

New rules that were slated to take effect earlier this year for businesses renting and launching kayaks and paddle boards at Turtle Beach Park have been moved back again, according to the latest information from the county.

Those rules – patterned after similar ones in place on Lido Key – will require businesses to annually purchase medallions at $500 each from the county for all non-motorized vessels being rented at the park.

LOCAL MAPS & INFORMATION

Continued on page 23

See Page 19

Abel’s Ice Cream and Handmade Chocolates Thai cuisine Northeast style offered at Isan Thai Restaurant

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NOTES FROM THE ISLAND FISHMONGER..................26 CAPTAIN KLOPFER FISHING REPORT.............................26

If you are looking for real handmade chocolates, consider shopping at Abel’s Ice Cream. They offer the Sweet Shop USA brand of quality handmade chocolate truffles in a variety of flavors. Sweet Shop USA has developed recipes for a velvet-soft center without the course, grainy mouth feel. The centers are made of chocolate liquor, real butter and fresh whipping cream. Each center is hand-formed and hand-dipped in coatings of chocolate then personally signed or decorated by the dipper to identify the piece. Quality chocolates should accomplish certain requirements when tasted 1) it should break down immediately 2) there should not be a waxy or grainy feel on the roof of your mouth and 3) when you are finished with a piece, the taste in your mouth

should not change. Abel’s Ice Cream displays their chocolates in a humidity controlled refrigerated cabinet as recommended by Sweet Shop USA to ensure freshness. At the request of many customers, a new flavor of ice cream has been added, Salty Caramel ice cream with a salty caramel ribbon and salty roasted peanuts….. Yummo and addictive. It has been a great addition to their 36 flavors offered and accommodates their Caramel Caribou (Toffee ice cream with thick caramel weave and mini chocolate caramel cups) and Creamy Praline (Praline flavored ice cream loaded with pecans in a butterscotch weave) flavors. Abel’s is located at 1886 Stickney

Point Road between New Balance and Stonewood Grill. To learn more or to get directions, visit www.abelsicecream.com or Tripadvisor Sarasota ice cream.

Siesta Sand

June 2015

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Siesta Key Business Community loses a true gentleman Crescent Beach Grocery owners Nancy Connelly and Bill Singleton have dedicated themselves to providing great products, great service and an interesting shopping experience to the residents and visitors of Siesta Key. This was the beginning of an article featured in the March 2015 edition of Siesta Sand. A month after the article appeared, the business community was stunned to receive the news of Bill Singleton’s untimely passing and Kids on April 24. His gentle spirit will be missed by the many visitors, Stuff residents and business owners that frequented the store and have come to know him over the years. Bill and Nancy’s full-time status as Siesta Key business owners began when they took back the grocery that Nancy’s parents built Deck Boats • Pontoon Boats • Runabouts Deck Boats • Pontoon Boats • Runabouts after her father’s passing in 2003. At the time, Bill’s experience in the grocery business was quite limited as he relates in the article. you probably don’t think www.CBsOutfitters.com • Since 1959 of What in a small grocery is owners with Open 7 Days 7am-6pm 1249 Stickney Point Rd. Siesta Key multiple degrees in archaeology and anthropology and careers as far removed from retail sales as anyone could imagine. “I was a practicing archaeologist for several years, both here in the United States and in various African countries,” notes Bill. “After that, I directed Information et Technology organizations in several e M colleges and universities. I don’t think I ever sold anyone as much as a can of beans or book of matches before coming to Sarasota and opening the grocery. So you can’t say that I was exactly well-prepared for this transition.” Be that as it may, his determination and background helped make Crescent Beach Grocery a shop filled with To the beaches, parks, airport, wonderful little treasures you restaurants...wherever you need to go! don’t normally find in a small Check out our award winning music video grocery. Follow and “Like” on You Tube! us on Facebook for “Something in our backgrounds more details www.youtube.com/watch?v=UpdIEtTJ800 made us very serious about providing for our customers’ needs and trying to find new items that make grocery

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shopping a time of discovery as well as an enjoyable experience. We have tried to incorporate that approach into how we run the store and its different areas.” As a business owner, he understood the importance of a positive shopping experience and found ways to enrich it by offering things like wine tastings and a top notch deli. “Both Nancy and I have a background that is extremely service oriented and we view the grocery as a service to our customers as much as a place to buy things. We like to have fun and we want our customers to have fun while they are here. After all, if you are a visitor, you are on vacation on a beautiful island with a worldclass beach. If you are a resident, you live on a beautiful island with a world-class beach. So why not enjoy yourself! If we can bring that attitude into the store with our customers, then we feel we are succeeding. And we think our customers will agree.” Part of the couple’s idea of having fun is to offer services like wine tastings to their customers. “We’re going to have about four tastings during the Season this year,” explains Bill. “We like to keep them small and

personal and to have the opportunity to offer a number of wines to our customers that they may not have heard of.” One final salute to you Bill, the Key is a better place because of you. Bob Stein; Siesta Sand

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June 2015

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Connie Lewis offers a different type of massage experience By Debbie Flessner

As Connie Lewis prepared to celebrate her 19th year in business at Massage Experience on Siesta Key, she reflected on how she got to this place in her life. Because as tranquil and relaxing as her massage therapy spa is, her life has not been so. Her father passed away when she was nine, and throughout her life, she has been plagued with injuries from multiple automobile accidents, and even needed open heart surgery fourteen years ago. But Lewis says it’s those life experiences that have enabled her to be so good at what she does now. She was in her early twenties and working in television production and radio promotions in her hometown of Worcester, Massachusetts when she had her second serious car accident in two years, in almost the exact same location. “I looked up to the sky and said, ‘OK, I get it,’” she said. “I made the vow right then to make a change.” She enrolled in the Bancroft School of Massage, an esteemed institution that offers training in a broad range of massage modalities, from Western health models to Eastern approaches. As the end of the almost 18-month course of studies drew to a close, she came to the conclusion that it was time to leave Massachusetts. Having done quite a bit of traveling, she knew that there were some beautiful parts of the country where she wouldn’t mind living, but she still needed to figure out exactly where she wanted to move. She called chambers of commerce in the Florida panhandle, the east coast of the state and Sarasota to ask them to send her some information. “About six months before graduation, I knew it was time to get serious about my future,” Lewis said. “Sarasota looked the best to me, so in Thanksgiving of 1992, I came here and looked around. I went to Siesta Key Beach and that was all I needed to know.” She went back to Worcester, packed her belongings and drove down to Sarasota for good, getting a job working at The Massage Store, which is no longer in business. After a few years, though, she realized that if she were going to

truly achieve her dreams, she would have to make another change. “I knew it wasn’t going to be enough to work in someone else’s business,” she said. “I knew I could successfully start my own business, because I always like to make my own destiny, and I’m a hard boss on myself.” Lewis opened Massage Experience on June 22 of 1996 and has never looked back. As a matter of fact, she continues to look forward, by continuously educating herself so she can provide a wide range of services to her many clients. In addition to the various types of massage therapies she offers, 10 years ago, Lewis received her aesthetician license, which allows her to safely administer skin care treatments, such as facials, facial sculpting and Connie’s Signature Treatment, a massage and

was having open heart surgery at the Mayo clinic.” It’s those types of life experiences which Lewis says allows her to relate so well with her clients. She can empathize with clients who are struggling with physical and emotional pain, and it makes her feel a sense of accomplishment to be able to help them. Lewis says that in many ways, her clients lean on her for support, and that’s one of the things she enjoys about her job.

There are three treatment rooms at Massage Experience, two of which have garden atrium views.

Connie Lewis has owned Massage Experience for the past 19 years.

facial combination. In the process of running a business on Siesta Key, which allows her such personal interaction with her clients, Lewis has developed some close relationships, one of which may have ended up saving her life. “I was talking with one of my clients, a cardiologist, during his treatment and telling him some symptoms I was having and he listened to me and he said, ‘You need to come in to the office tomorrow,’” Lewis said. “Within two months, I

“I have clients that come in here every day who are challenged and because I’m warm and open, they feel comfortable with me,” she said. “”I have become that way because of what’s happened to me. They come in because I can handle it--nothing scares me anymore.” Connie Lewis, BS/LMT/Aesthetician, can be reached at Massage Experience, 5138-A Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, 941349-4833. For more information, visit the website at www.MassageExperienceSK. com.

Connie Lewis also sells a selection of spa products at her Massage Experience location. Photos by Debbie Flessner.

Siesta Sand

June 2015

Siesta Key Round-Up

An unexpected recognition

It’s a fitting designation. “Bay Island Park” has been re-named “Nora Patterson Bay Island Park.” Patterson, often described as the “Champion of Siesta Key” for representing the island during her years as a county commissioner, was an unflagging advocate for water access. In March, County Commissioner Chairwoman Carolyn Mason publically introduced the idea of re-naming the park, and at its May

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

By Bob Stein and Roger Drouin

5 meeting, the County Commission approved the designation with a unanimous vote. “Nora Patterson is a very special person to me,” Mason said. “This is only a small gesture to thank her for her very large contributions to Sarasota County over the years. She has been, and will continue to be, a leader for this community.” Patterson said she was honored to have the park named after her, and the former commissioner added she was surprised by the county commission’s gesture. “It’s totally unexpected,” Patterson said. “But, one of the most important things is to maintain public access to the waterfront, so to have a park like this carry my name is just fantastic.” City commissioners will also consider the name change because the municipality owns the northern tract of the park. According to city spokeswoman Jan Thornburg the city’s Parks, Recreation and Environmental Protection (PREP) Advisory Board was scheduled to discuss the name change in late

May, and commissioners would have final approval afterward. “This wasn’t totally my idea,” Mason said at the May 5 meeting. “A couple of people from the community met with me, and I agreed to champion the idea at the county level.” Patterson had offered advice when Mason first sought a seat on the City Commission. Mason and Patterson later sat on the County Commission together for six years. “Serving with her on the County Commission I learned a whole lot,” Mason said. The park at 946 Siesta Drive is visible by motorists entering the northern end of the island. Commissioner Christine Robinson said the designation was “very appropriate.” Robinson thanked Mason for helping to spearhead the park re-naming and spoke about her time on the Commission during Patterson’s fourth and last term. “I was honored to serve with her and look forward to seeing her name as I drive by there just about

every day as I drop my kids off to school,” Robinson said. Let’s go ahead and get those signs up very quickly.” Bay Island was platted in 1926 and Bay Island Park was platted in 1950. The name of the park is likely associated with early Siesta Key development that included dredge and fill work that created the “island,” according to the Sarasota County Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources department. That name was subsequently used by a later subdivision as well as the park. Today the park is regularly used for recreational fishing, scenic viewing, and as a temporary landing for loading and off-loading for recreation boaters. The park has been undergoing a seawall replacement, but the work is expected to be completed this summer.

Big Water Fish Market tops them All!

Congratulations to Scott Dolan our island fishmonger and owner of Big Water Fish on

Siesta Key for being rated the Top Seafood Restaurant in Sarasota by TripAdvisor. According to Dolan, “We have been consistently in the Top 10 of all Sarasota restaurants for the past two years and want to say ‘Thank You!’ to all of our wonderful customers who have shared your experiences on TripAdvisor…you made this possible!” Big Water Fish Market is located at 6641 Midnight Pass Rd. 941-554-8101

Boulevard Buzz

Officially starting with the July edition of Siesta Sand, the Siesta Key Village Association’s popular monthly flyer will now be part of the pages of the Siesta Sand monthly Siesta Key RoundUp. You’ll now be able to read about the issues important to the association. Sneak preview: the SKVA will be donating $1000 to the 25th annual anniversary of the Siesta Chamber of Commerce fireworks on the #1 Beach in the USA. Continued on page 7

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June 2015

Morton’s Siesta Market prepared to debut on Siesta Key By Debbie Flessner For more than 44 years, the Siesta Market has operated on the island, one of two grocery stores on Siesta Key, and for more than 50 years, the Morton family has either owned or worked with Morton’s Gourmet Market on Osprey Avenue. But soon, those two richly historic and beloved institutions will become one. Siesta Market owners, brothers Vincent and Peter Messina, are retiring from the business, which would have left a big grocery vacancy at 205 Canal Road, right in the heart of Siesta Village. Luckily, Todd Morton and his father Eddie stepped in with plans to transform the building, which was bought by investor Christopher J. Brown last November for $2.8 million, into Morton’s Siesta Market. The Morton’s, like the Messinas, know a little bit about the grocery business. “My grandfather had worked for Marable’s, and then bought it in 1969,” Todd Morton said. “In the 70s, he changed the name to Morton’s Market and ran it with my dad (Eddie) until 1997, when they sold it to Epicurean Life. But in 2007, my father and I bought it back.” Since then, the name of the market on the corner of Osprey and Hillview Avenues has been changed to Morton’s Gourmet Market, and is a full-service specialty food store, offering a wide variety of foods and products. There’s a bakery and coffee shop, prime meat and seafood selection, “from scratch” prepared meals, an extensive fine wine selection, gift baskets, gourmet groceries, a catering department and a very popular deli. The deli also provides a large portion of the current business at the Siesta Market, and Morton says that after his family takes it over, it is expected to continue to do so. “The Siesta Market has been there a long time, and we just want to update it and be able to offer a lot more of our prepared foods,” he said. “Our primary focus will be on the deli that exists there, and because the store is a smaller space than we have at our location now (about 4,000 square feet smaller), we’re going to try to have a sampling of what we have here. We just won’t have as many departments.” While Morton’s Gourmet Market,

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The Siesta Market, a longtime staple on the Key, will be a Morton’s Siesta Market.

which will remain open as the store’s flagship location, has an upscale atmosphere, Morton said it’s important to him and his father to keep the casual, beachy feel of the Siesta Market. After the Morton’s take over the space, the store will remain open while some updates are being made. But by early fall, the big restoration Visitors to the Morton’s Siesta Market can expect the quality of produce they have come to know at plans will begin. Morton said they’re not both the Morton’s Gourmet Market on Osprey Avenue and the current Siesta Market. quite sure how extensive those plans will be. “We’re in the process of meeting with store designers to come up with the look that we want,” he said. “The timing of when the restoration begins and ends depends on a lot of different things.” The only other grocer on the island is the Crescent Beach Grocery, located on the southern end, just south of Stickney Point Road, which delivers groceries all over the island. It’s unlikely, though, that Siesta Key residents and tourists will have to go very long without a market on the northern end of the Key, since the Morton’s want to keep the closure of the store to a minimum. As upset as many area residents Some of the signatures of Morton’s were to hear that the Siesta Market Gourmet Market are its fresh flowers, as owners were retiring, most seemed well as deli service and already prepared happy that the space would be foods. Photos by Debbie Flessner. taken over by a family who has such longtime ties to both the area is also causing quite a buzz among and the grocery business. his Osprey Avenue staff, some Rebecca Kremer, who lives just of whom will make the move to off the Key, and frequents the Siesta Morton’s Siesta Market. Market, said that she believed “Our staff here is really excited,” Morton’s Siesta Market would be a he said. “We’re also happy that we good fit. will be able to retain much of the “I love Siesta Market, but I also current staff at the Siesta Market as like the Morton’s Market, too,” well.” she said. “If they can bring some Morton’s Gourmet Market is of their foods like the prepared at 1924 South Osprey Avenue in salads and rotisserie chicken over Sarasota, and the new Morton’s to the new store, I won’t have to go Siesta Market is at 205 Canal anywhere else to shop.” Road on Siesta Key. For more Todd Morton said that the information, visit the website at imminent opening of the new store www.MortonsMarket.com.

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Siesta Sand

June 2015

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Midnight Cove Ribbon Cutting & SKCC Business Card Exchange Siesta Key Chamber members gathered together to celebrate the newly expanded business office for Midnight Cove. Midnight Cove is a premier vacation rental destination on

Siesta Key located at 6302 Midnight Cove Rd, just north of the Stickney Point Bridge. Their facility has 142 condominiums and townhouses on 11 acres of prime real estate spread across

Siesta Key from the azure waters of the Gulf of Mexico to the tranquil waters of Sarasota Bay and the Intercoastal Waterway. Photos by Bob Stein.

Alana Tomasso, Board Chair for Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce (SKCC) and General Manager of Midnight Cove Realty and Rooney Mereness, President of the Association Board cut the ribbon. Brad Stewart of Capt. Curtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and Tom Kouvatsos of Village Cafe.

Russell Matthes of Daiquiri Deck and Eleni Kouvatsos.

Sheila Lewis of Siesta Sports Rentals, Lynn & Bob Shaffer of ABC Rentals, and Bill Abel of Abelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ice Cream.

Trish Ivey of fresh. PR & Marketing and Debbie Szczesny, of Jamaica Royale .

Alana Tomasso, Board Chair of SKCC and General Manager of Midnight Cove Realty, Mark Smith of Smith Architects PA and Cheryl Gaddie of CG Designs.

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Siesta Key Round-Up

Jeanetta Tolar has been an employee and an icon for close to 40 years working on the Key at the Siesta Market. With the retirement of the Messina Brothers many in the community did not know if they would ever see Jeanetta again once the store would switch hands to the Morton family. The Siesta Key Village Association awarded Tolar with a plaque at the May monthly meeting. The plaque inscribed with Community Recognition “Goodwill Ambassador to Siesta Key” By the way the Morton’s have retained Jeanetta as an employee.

New owners for Island Boutique offering 15% discount

Meet Giovanni and Patrizia, new owners of Island Boutique located at 5212 Ocean Blvd, in the Village. The charming couple fell in love with Siesta Key and decided to expand the clothing lines they sell in Italy, bringing a bit of Italian fashion to the Key. They will continue to carry the popular island style clothing and will add Italian brands such as Inizio, Ayfee and Positano to their shop. For June, they are offering a 15% discount. Be sure to stop in and see the newly

Continued from page 4

Photo by Donnarose Melvin

Goodwill Ambassador to Siesta Key

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

June 2015

arrived shipment and welcome them to our island paradise.

The end is near for the Beach project!

The project is in the final phase. Construction for the new concession stand at the historic pavilion has begun. The pavilion will contain added bathrooms and the offices of the beach management. The final phase also resurfaces the portion most northern end of the parking lot affecting about 150 parking spots. The project is on schedule, expected to be completed by the end of the year. The Beach Ambassador located at the Historic Pavilion (at the time of press) will be moving to the new east concession stand. The temporary move allows the contractor to start work on the pavilion. The Sheriff’s office will be located in a trailer on the parking lot until the new office is completed at the Historic Pavilion. One of the trailers in the parking lot is a portable restroom until the new bathrooms are built. Yes ladies they are adding more toilets just for you.

PUBLIC NOTICE About Fireworks

With the 4th of July just around the corner we want to remind all visitors that Chinese Lanterns are illegal. Per Florida State Statutes: They are illegal in the state of Florida. 791.02 Sale of fireworks regulated; rules and regulations.— (1) Except as hereinafter provided it is unlawful for any person, firm, co-partnership, or corporation to offer for sale, expose for sale, sell at retail, or use or explode any fireworks; 791.01 – Definitions: (4)(a) “Fireworks” means and

includes any combustible or explosive composition or substance or combination of substances or, except as hereinafter provided, any article prepared for the purpose of producing a visible or audible effect by combustion, explosion, deflagration, or detonation. The term includes blank cartridges and toy cannons in which explosives are used, the type of balloons which require fire underneath to propel them, firecrackers, torpedoes, skyrockets, roman candles, dago bombs, and any fireworks containing any explosives or flammable compound or any tablets or other device containing any explosive substance.

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New SKVA Board members

The Siesta Key Village Association added two new board members Amanda Wansiewicz from Ascendia Real Estate 941 9144405 Amanda@ascendiarealestate. com and Bob Stein from Island Visitor Publishing, LLC/ Siesta Sand 941 349-0194 islandvp@Verizon.net

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Michael Shay called the meeting to order, and April Minutes were approved.

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Sheriff’s Office

Deputy Chris McGregor said there were no big crime trends going on. There were some “cases of opportunity” going on in South County— a couple of residential burglaries where people were gone for less than one hour. He advised to lock your door, lock your car, and set your alarms if you have them.

Code Enforcement

John Lally will be retiring in 11 days. John said he had 5 illegal rentals going to Special Magistrate. He introduced Susan Stahley, who will be the new Code Enforcement Officer with Planning and Development Services. She gave her e-mail: sstahley@scgovt.net should you wish to reach her. There was some discussion about the deteriorating property at 722 Siesta Key Circle. John Lally said his department only has the power to enforce the laws. He said that the Commissioners need to change the laws to encompass such deteriorating properties.

Junior Lifeguard Program

Richard Hinkson is the director of the Junior Lifeguard Program. He said they had their first graduate going to the Kona Ironman Event. This program is voluntarily operated by the County Life Guards, and the group works with Parks and Recreation. Michael Shay presented the Junior Lifeguard Program with a $500 check from SKA, and said it would be used to buy more equipment for the program.

Sarasota County Update: Big Pass Independent Peer Review Scope

Matt Osterhoudt, Manager of Sarasota County Environmental Protection Services, was introduced by Catherine Luckner.

Matt, in turn, introduced Laird Wreford, Project Leader. Laird gave information on the scope of what is going to happen with the upcoming Independent Review. He said that this 3rd party review is designed to bring good scientific data to the table. Although this is a City of Sarasota and an Army Corps Project, the County also has a stake. The most appropriate thing the County can do is have an impartial reviewer—an expert— take a critical look at the proposal. The goal is that this reviewer would talk to Community Leaders, ask the right questions, and come to the right conclusions. The Army Corps of Engineers has revised some of their plans. A peer review cannot be launched until these revisions have been completed. The County has 3 major concerns: 1.)What effect will this project have on navigation in Big Pass? 2.) What effect will it have on shorelines and beaches of Siesta Key? 3.) What effect will it have on the County Park on South Lido? ATKINS NORTH AMERICA is currently at the top of the list of companies being considered to do this review. They have offices here in Sarasota. They have provided an initial proposal, which the County is reviewing. In the near future, the County should know the cost, the time line, and exactly what is going to be looked at and measured. A question came from the floor: “One of the key clients on the ATKINS website is the Army Corps of Engineers. Isn’t that a conflict of interest?” Laird Wreford replied that ATKINS has no current contractual ties with the Army Corps. Catherine Luckner added that Audubon and Mote Marine also often do work with the Army Corps of Engineers. Another question from the floor: “What was the total ATKINS bid?” Laird responded that it was still under negotiation, but it was in the $15,000 to $50,000 range. Nora Patterson chimed in: “We are spending 20 million just to put a frame around that beach. Don’t skimp on this one. Let’s make this

a really important thing.” SKA’s official stance is to Do No Harm to Siesta Key. The volume and scope of the project is not yet clear. President Michael Shay added that we all understand Lido needs sand. This has never been a Sand War. We are simply concerned about where the sand will come from, and the effect that has on Siesta Key.

COMMITTEE REPORTS: Big Pass Dredge Project: Catherine Luckner reported that the Department of Environmental Protection was very responsive on sending her information. On April 15, the DEP said “you have exactly 14 days to print a public notice.” However, the link they provided on their web site went nowhere. She advised people in the audience to send certified letters of concern, and handed out a sample letter to those who asked for one.

OLD BUSINESS: • Roundabout: Bob Stein reported that no decision had yet been made. Another mailing will soon be made by the FDOT to nearby residents. • Post Disaster Redevelopment Plan (PDRP) will be voted on by the County Commissioners in the month of May. This plan outlines the rules on what to do, how to be ready, and whether or not you will be able to rebuild.

NEW BUSINESS: • Pedi Cabs: Michael Shay reported this is still a work in progress. SKA is looking into what should be the regulations, talking to the tax collector, etc.

Next SKA monthly meeting is Thursday, June 4, at 4:30 pm. There will be no SKA meeting on Thursday, July 2.

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Beach Wedding

June 2015

By Trebor Britt

Marisa & Juan |Muratti Beach Wedding A gentle Gulf breeze and small waves breaking over the shoreline rocks at Sunset Beach on Siesta Key created the perfect setting for a wedding. Marisa Lenz and Juan Muratti III of West Palm Beach took full advantage and were wedded at a brief but intimate ceremony surrounded by close family and friends. Though they knew of one another in their South Jersey high school, it would not be until they reconnected through family 25 years later that their love would blossom. Although they dated for more than a year, it didn’t take long for them to know they would spend the rest of their lives together. Juan said, “I knew she was ‘the one’ the first time I made her laugh and she knew I was “the one” after the first time we kissed. She said she has never been kissed like that before.” Juan recalled one day at dinner they just stared at each other as if they had something important to say. He related, “I just let it out and told her I loved her. Tears began to run down her cheeks and after she caught her breath she told me she loved me too. Then tears began to run down my cheeks.” Their sweetest dating memories are a little different. Marisa remembers vividly a motorcycle adventure they shared and Juan can’t forget how he felt the first time he went to work after spending an extended amount of time with her.

He missed Marisa and loved her so much he ached. They decided to get married on Siesta Key because it was the location of their first date and thought it was amazing. After a spectacular honeymoon at the Wyndham Grand Resort in Puerto Rico they returned to begin their new life together in West Palm Beach.

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June 2015

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Not sure what to give this Father’s Day? Pamper that special man or father in your life this Father’s Day with a gift certificate from the area’s very best gentlemen’s salon, Frank’s! Here’s a gift he may not request, but he’ll be pleased to receive and experience. Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon is an upscale men’s salon dedicated to providing men with traditional barber shop services combined with cool modern style. And, just in time for Father’s Day, straight razor shaves are now available from their new master barber. At Frank’s, dad could get used to the kind of pampering where great service and an amazing atmosphere is the norm. He can sit back and enjoy a complimentary beverage while relaxing to the timeless sounds of Sinatra and Bennett. Stellar customer service is never rushed as they pay attention to every detail. Even the spacious waiting area has been designed with men in mind, complete with dark, rich leather chairs, 55” HDTV and beautiful solid oak pool table. Of course, you’ll want dad to enjoy the most popular service; Frank’s signature haircut which includes shampoo and conditioning treatment with Eufora products, an invigorating scalp massage and a hot towel facial wrap. It ends with a relaxing neck and shoulder massage. Complimentary clean ups are always included. Offered each Tuesday is a half-priced haircut for new clients. If you really need to get on dad’s good side, throw in the man-Pedi and he’ll be putty in your hands. His feet and calves will be pampered as he relaxes for 60 minutes in a luxurious state-ofthe-art Continuum massage chair. Dad will feel like king for the day as they care for his nails and massage his tired feet. Owner, Sabine Kruta invites you to call or stop by and pick up a gift certificate for dad. Allow him the luxury of experiencing any of their services so he too will appreciate why coming to Frank’s is not just an appointment, it’s an experience. Frank’s Gentlemen’s Salon is conveniently located near Siesta Key at 4141 S Tamiami Trail in Sarasota, Florida. 941-926-2631. Hours: Tue, Wed 10-5, Thursday, Friday 9-6, Saturday 10-2. Advertorial

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June 2015

Siesta Key Round-Up Siesta Center has a new owner

The Siesta Center stretching to the Village Café located in the Village has been sold to Jeff Berlin for 4.6 million in mid-May. Roz Hyman was the property manager since 1975. According to Hyman this was supposed to be a temporary part-time job for her that went full-time and lasted until the recent sale. You can finally retire now Roz.

Parking restrictions in the Village Municipal lot

New restrictions have been approved concerning parking in the municipal lot. The lot located between Calle Minorga and Avenida De Mayo will no longer allow commercial vehicles, trailers and motor homes to park in the lot. The County Commissioners unanimously approved the ban. The Siesta Key Association along with the Siesta Key Village Association lobbied for the restrictions in the fall of 2014.

Rash of Crimes

ABC 7 (WWSB) recently reported that the Manatee and Sarasota County Sheriff’s Offices are investigating a recent rash of crimes where gated communities have been burglarized by a “nonviolent, but sophisticated and fast group”, according to Sarasota County Sheriff’s Spokesperson Wendy Rose. A unique characteristic of these burglaries has been that the suspects are typically well dressed females driving a high-end rented vehicles. “Targeted items seem to be jewelry and high end electronics”, according to Rose. The Sarasota County communities hit thus far (Plantation Country Club in Venice, The Inlets in Nokomis, and Calusa Lakes near Laurel Rd.) all seem to be out of the way locations, with quick easy access to the interstate. The Sheriff’s Department also reported at the May SKA meeting that Casey Key has been hit with a rash of these crimes. Residents should be on the lookout for any suspicious activity and report it to the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office at 941-316-1201.

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Sarasota County lifeguards remind beachgoers to avoid injury by doing the “stingray shuffle” when entering beach waters. By shuffling your feet in the sand, you will scare off any stingrays that might be around. Stingray season typically lasts from April through October, but since they don’t have calendars the time may vary. If stingrays are present at the beach, a purple flag will be visible from the lifeguard tower in addition to signs posted alerting of the danger. Flags currently are up and will be flown as needed. Stingrays by nature are not aggressive; however, the problem arises when bathers unknowingly step on them. This happens close to the shoreline where stingrays tend to burrow in the sand, usually during the summer months when they are searching for food or mating. Stingrays are capable of inflicting a laceration or a penetrating type of wound. The injury is serious and can be very painful. Anyone who has suffered a stingray wound must take immediate and effective action in its treatment. If stung by a stingray: •Seek a lifeguard or go directly to the nearest medical facility for treatment or someplace where you can get hot water. •Soaking the wound in hot water should be the first step taken in treating this injury. Soak the injured area in water as hot as one can stand, which will help to relieve the pain

July 4th VIP Party

The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce will be celebrating its 25th Fireworks Anniversary this year. Come join this year’s celebration, July 4th with the VIP Party. The VIP Party is open to the public but has limited space so be sure to get your tickets early. $150 provides donors with reserved parking at Siesta Public Beach and entrance for two to the catered picnic; food, beer, wine, soft drinks and live entertainment by Ted Stevens & the Doo Shots are all included in the package. New this year will be a Kid Zone! Contact Terri Schubel, Volunteers, Events and Marketing Manager at the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce. 941-349-4800.

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Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce still needs help

The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is in need of volunteers in their Visitor Center. As a volunteer you will have fun helping visitor’s find accommodations, places to shop, eat and area attractions. It’s a great place to become active and involved in the Siesta Key community, whether you are full time or seasonal residents. 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, Terri Schube, Volunteers, Marketing & Events Manager at 941-349-3800 or stop by the office at 5114 Ocean Boulevard.

As you drive by St. Michael’s the Archangel Catholic Church on Midnight Pass Road, don’t be alarmed if you see new front doors on the front entrance to the church. Parishioners have noticed the sign on the big doors in the front of the church instructing all to only open one side. This is because the doors, which are over 30 years old, are having structural and mechanical problems. The doors are made of bronze laid on wood. The parish has had several qualified people in to examine the doors and the conclusion is that the inner wood has rotted out over the years. The doors will be removed and “temporary” doors will be put in place. At that point, closer examination will determine if the doors are repairable or need to be replaced. Parishioners were instructed to watch forthcoming bulletins for an update on this capital expenditure.

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June beach events

Be sure to check out the events calendar for details about the various camps being offered on Siesta beach for June. Kids summer beach runs will begin for the summer and surfit summer camp, beach volleyball camp, a sand sculpting camp and a Jr. lifeguard camp will keep the kids busy.

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June 2015

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News Up & Down the Trail By Roger Drouin and Debbie Flessner Alpert, Eddie unseat incumbents in City Commission runoff

Liz Alpert and Shelli Freeland Eddie were sworn in last month as city commissioners after they defeated incumbent candidates in the May 12 runoff election. Alpert and Eddie upended a majority on the City Commission, clearing the path for what the two challengers described as a new time of progress. The looming city issues are complex—ranging from an unfunded plan to address the longstanding problem of homelessness, healing a rift with Sarasota County, proposed changes to the Bayfront, building fees, and traffic woes downtown. But only time will tell how the new City Commission tackles them, and how well the new commissioners on the board get along. Alpert and Eddie are both democrats and lawyers. In District 2, challenger Alpert, with 53 percent of the vote, defeated incumbent Eileen Normile with 47 percent, according to unofficial results from the Sarasota County Supervisor of Elections Office. In District 3, Eddie defeated incumbent Stan Zimmerman by a margin of 54 percent to 46 percent. The incumbents, Normile and Zimmerman, had been appointed to the City Commission last year. They replaced Paul Caragiulo and Shannon Snyder, who had stepped down to run for county office. Caragiulo was elected to the County Commission.

Expansion slated for Pines of Sarasota

A major expansion that has been in the works for several years is moving ahead at the Pines of Sarasota, the city’s oldest nursing home. The nursing center is seeking to change the land-use designation on a parcel of property it owns from “community office” to “metropolitan regional,” according to the city’s Neighborhood and Development Services Planning Division. The zoning change was already unanimously approved by the city’s planning board last month, and it now requires a super-majority vote by the City Commission. The nursing center is considering

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a new development that could include 350 to 450 residential units, some of it catering to independent living for seniors. The approval of the land-use change would clear the way for development.

State Street garage to open in June

Passing along State Street downtown, residents and tourists can catch a glimpse of the construction progress of a six-story parking garage. Although construction is ongoing, the opening of the garage has been delayed, once again, from mid-May to a partial opening at the end of May. On May 11, city officials announced the delay. The new, targeted opening for the entire garage is mid June. According to the city of Sarasota, the parking garage at State Street and Lemon Avenue will provide nearly 400 parking spaces for the downtown core shopping, dinning and business. The cost to build the garage has swelled by more than 50 percent above original estimates, but the city is obligated, through a contract with the Pineapple Square developers, to build the garage. It will be paid for primarily with tax increment financing and some downtown redevelopment funds.

New landfill facility opens

County commissioners and staff last month celebrated the opening of the new Landfill Gas to Energy Facility. The clean-energy facility, a joint project between the county and private company Landfill Energy

Systems Florida (Aria Energy), began operating in February on the grounds of the Central County Solid Waste Disposal Complex in Nokomis. The ribboncutting ceremony was the first

chance for officials and the general public to see the plant in action. Instead of just burning methane, a greenhouse gas produced by the county’s landfill, three massive engines at the new facility are now converting that gas into electricity that enters the power grid. About 4.8 megawatts of electricity are generated, or enough to power 2,800 homes. “This innovative technology shows our commitment to clean energy and a sustainable future for Sarasota County,” said Commission Chair Carolyn Mason.

Home prices rise 9.1 percent

Headlines across many regions of the U.S. describe rising home prices. And the Sarasota-Manatee region saw higher than average increases once again in March. With a 9.1 percent jump over the year in the Sarasota-Manatee region, the area again outpaced state and national gains. Prices increased an even higher 11.8 percent in Charlotte County, data provider CoreLogic reported last month. Single-family home prices climbed 7 percent throughout Florida in March, the seventh-highest rate in the nation. The U.S. rate was 5.9 percent, marking 37 months of consecutive year-over-year increases in home prices. Continued on page 16

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Sheriff’s Report

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

April 17 – May 18, 2015

There were a total of 28 crimes reported on the Key from 4/17-5/18/15 doors to the residence PUBLIC BEACH 4/17/15 Theft – THEFT 16 1 unlocked except for the Vehicle 1 front door. There were 2 ASSAULT 5 6300 Block Midnight no signs of forced entry. THE VILLAGE Pass Rd Forensics was able to dust DUI

the house for prints. Two men reported they 1 1 had gone golfing on 4/16 DRUG ALCHOHOL 4 VIOLATION and had put their clubs away 5/10/15 Petit Theft ELSEWHERE ON THE KEY in their rental vehicle. After BURGLARY 1 6400 Block 8 traveling to various places 3 2 Midnight Pass Rd in Sarasota, they realized 1 that at some point that day, A man reported his 1 their clubs had been taken bicycle was stolen. He out of the car. They believed they she was holding the faucet in the stated he left it unlocked against were taken by opening the rear off position when the man grabbed a wooden sign at Crescent Beach. tailgate of the vehicle. The first her by the arm and shoved her. He stated the bike was left there victim stated his clubs were a set of She said she received a cut to for approximately 45 minutes and Pings in a blue “Titleist” bag and her hand, which according to the was gone when he returned. There had an estimated value of $1600. officer, was not very visible and are no suspects or witnesses at The second victim stated that his was unable to be photographed. this time. clubs were a set of Pings in a black The man agreed with most of her “HP” bag also valued at $1600. At version of the incident, except he 5/10/15 Petit Theft said he never shoved her. He stated this time there are no suspects. Public Beach he was attempting to turn the water back on as she was holding A man entered the North front 4/19/15 Theft-Vehicle the faucet off and could have desk to report his wallet had been 1000 Block Crescent St touched her hand while doing so. stolen. He stated that an unknown A man ‘s car was burglarized The woman wished to prosecute person(s) entered his beach bag and he was unsure of exactly and was given a Sherriff’s Office while he was at the concession when his items were stolen. An case card. The officer explained stand. The stolen items included a unknown person entered his to both parties that based on his wallet, driver’s license, glasses and unlocked vehicle and took a 45 investigation and the fact that there some cash. caliber Glock semi automatic were no witnesses of the event, he handgun and his wallet from the had determined that there was no 5/13/15 Theft- Vehicle center console. The vehicle was probable cause for an arrest and 200 Beach Rd parked outside of his duplex. He there would be no further action A man reported that an did not discover the theft until he on the case. unknown subject had smashed his went to the store and looked for his wallet. There was no evidence 5/3/15 Theft -Residence passenger side window and stole his wallet. The man had left his car of forced entry. 4000 Block Ocean Blvd. for approximately 2 hours while A couple called the Sherriff’s he went to the beach. His wallet 4/29/15 Battery Department to report that their had been left next to the center 700 Block Siesta Key Circle home had been burglarized. The console under a towel. When he A woman reported that she woman stated that she went to her returned to the car he found the was the victim of a battery. She closet jewelry drawer to pack some window completely shattered. explained that she was in the items for a business trip when she It did not appear anything else process of moving out of her rental discovered that several jewelry was rummaged through or taken. and that the landlord had hired a items were missing. The 4 pieces Inside his wallet were his driver’s man to power wash the residence. were valued at a total of $46,988. license and multiple credit cards. While she was moving things in The woman then went to another The responding officer was able to and out of the residence, she was location in her kitchen where she lift some prints off the door handle. getting sprayed with residual had stored more of her jewelry There were no known witnesses. water from the power wash. She and discovered that it was also stated that she tried to get the missing. Those items were valued 5/17/15 Grand Theft attention of the man on the roof, at $18,463. The couple stated that but due to the noise of the machine, several subjects had been in and 1200 Block Old Stickney Pt. Rd he was unable to hear her. She then out of their residence to clean, etc. A man left his tandem motorized turned off the water supply to get One particular subject stood out bicycle at a marina for a couple of his attention. The man told her to to her. It was a cable repair person days and found it stolen when he turn the water back on as the lack of that had been at their house for an returned. The victim stated the water would damage his machine. entire day, throughout the house, bike did not have a chain lock on The woman said she turned the unsupervised. The woman felt that it but advised the rear wheel was water back on but turned it off this person acted in a suspicious locked. He said the black bike was again after he continued to power manner and took longer than very heavy due to the battery and wash. She then refused to turn it usual. The officer noted that the motor. He said he had paid $3000 back on. According to the woman, couple stated that they leave all for it.

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June 2015

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Great Eats |Chianti offers summer specials

In the two years since opening in March of ‘13, Chianti Ristorante Italiano on Clark Road has become a Sarasota favorite for delicious Italian food and for being a fun place to “hang out”. Manager Angelo DiFiore and Chef Stefano Castaldo, both natives of Italy, have been wowing the guests with Dinner Shows, entertainers, Daily Specials and superb Wine Dinners. This summer Chianti is offering theme specials from Sunday through Thursday, helping locals to keep lifestyles up-to-par with special prices that include: Eduardo’s Sunday Sauce, with ribs, sausage and meatballs over pasta, in the family “secret sauce” at just $17.95. Monday offers a stupendous value: for $9.95, enjoy fresh pasta with Chiant’s trademark giant meatballs and warm Chianti breads. Tuesday is Lobster Night, with a complete Lobster Dinner.... clam chowder or salad, sauteed vegetables, a whole fresh Maine Lobster, expertly cut, for $19.95. Wednesday is Chicken Cacciatore Night, with Stefano’s hometown recipe and fall-offthe-bone tenderness for only $16.95. The same “tenderness” is found on Thursday night, with Chianti’s famed Lamb Osso Buco for a low $19.95. You can enjoy these specials into October, buon appetito! Dinner shows are often held on Wednesday evenings, and feature Rob Davies, Sarasota’s quintessential Sinatra entertainer, and Josepth Spinella singing Pavarotti. You never know who you are going to bump into at a Chianti event. Wine tastings and a full bar with Happy Hours every day bring in big crowds during the summer as well as season. Hint: try their happy hour appetizer specials and stay for their Earlybird Special, every day of the week. Having a party? Take a look at Chianti’s banquet room. Always, plenty of free parking and a real easy-to-find location on Clark Road near Beneva. Chianti is a Savor Sarasota restaurant for the 2015 version of this popular annual event, from June 1-June 14. Enjoy a special threecourse dinner and glass of wine for $29 per person. Hooray!

Crooner Rob Davies entertains diners with songs from Frank Sinatra.

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June 2015

Great Eats |Thai cuisine Northeast style offered at Isan Thai Restaurant You can visit Northeast Thailand simply by going to the South Trail in Sarasota. Isan Thai Restaurant offers traditional Thai food of the northeast region of Thailand bordering Cambodia and Laos known as Isan. Hailing from Sisaket province, known for its traditional methods of rice farming, owner P’Koong brings her home cooking to Sarasota along with her staff of friendly Thai ladies. Although Northeast Thai dishes can be spicy, as are many dishes from that part of the world, this restaurant’s cuisine seems lighter and packed with a bit more flavor than most other Asian restaurants. That statement has to be couched with a dining tip: order the food mild with some of the fiery sauce on the side to avoid any mouth searing. Isan Thai, at 5758 S. Tamiami Trail, just south of Phillippi Mansion, serves lunch and dinner. Menu items are similar on either menu, with a more extensive dinner menu featuring a large number of vegan and vegetarian dishes. Popular appetizers include Golden Triangle ($4.95) a ground chicken, potato, and Thai spice blend wrapped in rice paper and served with sweet and sour dip. Also special for a starter is Sai Aour, a home-made sausage, hearty and lightly spiced at $5.95. Soups are a Southeast Asia dining mainstay. At Isan Thai, popular soups are the Tom Yum Goong, ($4.95), a hot and sour soup with shrimp, onion, raw mushrooms, cilantro and Thai basil, as well as the Noodle Soup with rice noodles with chicken or pork, bean sprouts and Thai basil. The latter soup is $4.95 for lunch, with a heartier portion available at dinner for $8.95 for chicken, $9.95 for pork. The ladies of Isan offer noodle dishes including Drunken Noodles prepared with fresh Thai basil and sweet soy sauce as well as stir-fry rice dishes like Phad Phak Ruam Mit with a variety of fresh vegetables and spices, served with your choice of protein. Prices: chicken, pork, beef, tofu, or vegetable specials are $7.95 for lunch, $11.95 dinner; shrimp, scallop, or calamari is $8.95 lunch, $14.95 dinner; and a seafood combo at $10.95 lunch, $17.95 dinner. A popular special with diners at the above prices is Pad Thai with its rice noodles sautéed with egg, bean

As is Thai tradition, Buddhist monks performed a blessing for the opening of the new dining room. A morning ceremony took place with monks chanting then an offering of food by the guests. The Blessing was well attended and included 12 monks from different Thai temples. sprouts, ground peanuts, and scallions. Isan Thai Chef’s specials include Crispy Duck with a choice of sweet chili sauce, ginger sauce, fresh garlic chili sauce, or Panang sauce ($18.95). Try Crying Tiger, a chargrilled boneless Ribeye seasoned with roasted rice powder served with Green Curry Fried Rice and The newly expanded dining area with carved Asparagus (21.95). Popular tables can accommodate larger parties. curry dishes include Red Curry, Green Curry (with Thai eggplant) and Yellow curry prepared with vegetables and coconut milk. For the adventurous diner, try their Hungley Curry, a rich creamy spicy curry prepared with fresh ginger and cubed pork ($12.95) or Kao Soi, a Northern style creamy sweet curry made with crispy egg noodles, fresh shallots, and cilantro with your choice of Owner, P’Koong (right) with protein. one of her lovely Thai servers. Seafood offerings include Bplaa Rad Prik, Red Snapper (whole or of a specialty brew pub. Plan to sip filet) with a basil chili sauce, served your way across the world, with with steamed vegetables and rice. Thai, Japanese, Belgium, and other Ever popular is Amazing Salmon, brews, a long list of craft beers also pan fried salmon filet served with from around the world, plus more a peanut sauce, cabbage, and Tum traditional lagers. There is also a large wine list. Yum Fried Rice. With most of the world’s jasmine The restaurant is open Tuesday rice harvested in Thailand, rice through Saturday for lunch and dishes are featured at Isan Thai. dinner. A newly expanded dining Many of the chef’s dinner specials area with hand carved tables can include a hearty helping of the accommodate larger parties. Dinner is served from noon until 9 p.m. on fragrant rice. Isan Thai caters to vegetarians Sundays. Reservations are strongly with a medley of appetizer, salad, recommended. More information about the restaurant is available at and entrée courses. Isan Thai has one of the most www.isanthairestaurant.com or by extensive beer menus seen outside calling 941-923-1232.

Connie Lewis

LMT/Aesthetician/Spa Director

Massage Experience

Siesta Key 5138-A Ocean Blvd. Siesta Key Village Office: 941.349.4833 Cell: 941.350.7495 massageexperiencesk.com Est. 1996

Neuromuscular / Injury Rehabilitation Massage Relaxing Swedish Massage Anti-Aging Facials and Pampering Day Spa Services

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June 2015

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News Up & Down the Trail From February to March, home prices increased by 2.3 percent in Sarasota-Manatee and by 1.8 percent in Charlotte. Prices nationwide rose 2 percent over the month.

Port Manatee could add Cuba ferry service

It’s a new era for U.S.-Cuban relations, and Port Manatee officials are looking to take part in the historic easing of tensions. For the first time in five decades, the U.S. Treasury and Commerce departments are allowing ferry service between Florida and Cuba, and Port Manatee could soon partner on those trips—offering passage between the U.S. and Cuba. Port officials have been in talks with two of the four Floridabased ferry services now licensed. And in April, the port’s director made his way to Miami to further those discussions and potential partnerships. The ferry service, Havana Ferry Partners, based in Miami, could be the first to provide passage

Continued from page 12

between the U.S. and Cuba, out of Key West in the next few weeks. And recently that service, along with Baja Ferries USA, has been negotiating with Port Manatee to provide a stop on the Southwest coast as well.

H20 tasting

Sarasota County has won a taste test, for water that is. For the second year in a row, the county had the region’s best water to drink, as judged during a competition of the region’s twelve public water supplies. In order to promote water resources and the importance of safe, clean drinking water, Region X of the Florida Section of the American Water Works Association (FS/AWWA) recently held its annual Best Tasting Drinking Water contest. Region X of FS/AWWA represents the four county area including Charlotte, DeSoto, Manatee and Sarasota Counties. Sarasota County was selected as the winner of this year’s contest out of the water suppliers within the region.

U.S. 41 changes permanent

Lane changes on U.S. 41 are now permanent. Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) crews added signage and adjusted the striping of the roadway. The striping changes create a dedicated right-turn lane from northbound US 41 to Fruitville Road and change the northbound dedicated left-turn lane into a through lane. The changes were designed to curb traffic congestion coming downtown from the John Ringling Causeway, but resulted in problems initially. Before the signs were added, the impromptu lane changes were shown to confuse motorists driving on U.S. 41. FDOT advises that motorists should pay close attention to the change in traffic patterns and use caution.

Parking garage search continues

The search, and the debate, continue as the Venice City

Council attempts to identify the best spot to build a much needed downtown parking garage. Recently the Hamilton Condominiums, which are business condos located next to the Hatchett Creek Bridge, and the land they are situated on, were identified as the City Council’s primary candidate for the garage’s location. At a special meeting, council members voted to authorize the purchase of the property, with the intention of building a $12 million parking structure on the site. However, the vote was close, 4-3, and other potential locations are still being considered: The U.S. Post Office and distribution center between West Venice Avenue and Tampa Avenue; Hecksher Park; Centennial Park; the property across from the First Baptist of Venice; Fire Station No. 1; the now closed Classics Steak House; the eight-parcel land where Babe’s Plumbing has buildings; Seaboard Office Park; and the parking lot areas behind the Venice Theatre.

Injured teenage athlete receives ESPN award

Your Siesta Key Real Estate Agent...

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

Voters in the city of Venice will be asked to approve the city borrowing money for a wish list of projects on its agenda. The City Council has until August 21 to decide exactly which projects they would like to fund and how much money would be needed to do so, in order to get the bond referendum on the November ballot. Besides the $12 million parking garage, other projects to be considered would be: Renovating the restrooms at Venice Beach, relocating the Public Works operations onto 39 acres near the Venetian Golf and River Club, moving the Venice Museum and Archives and refurbishing Wellfield Park. The City Council plans to begin the discussion on which projects to include in the bond proposal at its scheduled May 26 meeting. The last time Venice voters approved such a bond was in 2004, and this past February, the City Council decided to issue up to $17.5 million in bonds to help pay for rehabilitation to its utility system, which had fallen into disrepair.

Local club awards 13 scholarships

Each year, the Italian American Club of Venice gives scholarships to deserving Venice High School students through the school’s Rotary Futures College Resource Center. At the club’s May 7 monthly meeting, they awarded a total of 13 scholarships, totaling $14,000, to students they felt go above and beyond in both academics and community service. The 2015 scholarship recipients were as follows: Jasmine Bongiovanni, Teresa DeNiro, Kate Guscette, Connor Miller, Mariah Miller, Erin Monroe, Brandon O’Malley, Karin Prins, Antonio Tarantino and Nicholas Tarantino. In addition, Patrizia Murdocca received the “Peter DiVecchio Scholarship,” and Carolyn Rosa received the “Heritage Friday Night Workers Award.” For more information about the Italian American Club of Venice or its scholarship program, call (941) 486-1492.

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

This week’s featured listings...

Waterside Realty

ESPN Wide World of Sports has bestowed Venice High School student Rachel Nowak with their “Courage to Climb Torch Award.” The award honors athletes who have overcome incredible obstacles, and that’s exactly what Nowak has done since losing her left hand in a jet ski accident almost a year ago. A lifelong gymnast, she wasted little time getting back on the mat shortly after the accident and learning how to tumble with one hand. Nowak was nominated by her all-star gym, which was one of almost 1,000 gyms in the country that submitted a nomination. Though medical researchers are working on a light, flexible prosthetic hand for her, she continues to perform her gymnastic feats without the use of one, saying she prefers tumbling with one hand. Up next for Nowak are competitive cheer trials to make the Heirs Team, which is based at Rock Solid AllStars Gym in St. Petersburg.

Venice will ask voters to support a bond referendum

Gulf Front & Beach Access!

Enjoy the best of Siesta in this beautiful, light and bright turnkey furnished luxury condo. One of only 2 in the complex with outdoor living on 2 gulf-front terraces. Crescent affords styling, high-end finishes, and luxury amenities. From the exquisitely appointed living space, to the open gourmet kitchen featuring wood cabinets, granite, stainless appliances and 2 peninsula bars, this unit has it all. $2,249,000

For Boaters & Beachgoers!

The perfect retreat for the BOATER AND BEACHGOER! Rarely available true 3+ bedroom/3 bath unit with 2 master suites. Located just a short walk to Siesta Beach with its own private boat dock which will accommodate a 35’ boat , this spacious and impeccably furnished end unit affords the ideal island lifestyle. All of this just across the street from one of the top beaches in the world! $749,000

Unparalleled Gulf Views!

This 2 bedroom, 2 bath condo close to Crescent Beach has the best views on Siesta Key! Very large lanais with full Gulf of Mexico views for all those spectacular sunsets. So close to the beach you feel like you are hanging over the water! Completely and elaborately renovated and turnkey furnished. A gorgeous heated pool only steps from the beach and the warm waters of the Gulf. $895,000

View All Siesta Key Listings at KeySolutionsRealEstate.com Or Call 941.894.1255 For More Information!

True Florida Lifestyle

Surrounded by native botanical gardens and mature cypress trees it is nestled on two private lots with a pool and has been completely renovated. Within walking distance to Shell Beach and short bike ride to Siesta Key sugar white beaches and the Village offering a wide variety of dining, shopping and entertainment. 3 bedrooms and 3 full bathrooms with private deck offering calming views of Roberts Bay. $899,000

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

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June 2015

Sand Castles

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

This is the second of Siesta Sand’s monthly Sand Castles feature. By Roger Drouin

|300 feet of beach and three pools provide Royale Treatment at Jamaica Royale Jamaica Royale is a beachfront resort of 175 units, including one-story villas, two-story townhouses, and two towers featuring two-bedroom Gulf condos. The resort, which was built in phases from 1965 to 1976, and has undergone several recent upgrades, converges on it’s own 300-foot stretch of sandy beach. The 175-unit community is situated in a “great location, just south of the public beach,” notes Realtor Ron Flynn, of Key Solutions Real Estate. The beach in front of the resort has accreted over recent years, giving owners and guests more sand to sun on, and the beach is cleaned and raked weekly, Debbie Szczesny, assistant to the general manager at Jamaica Royale, told Siesta Sand. As the sun begins its reign over the day and beachgoers “get a little warm,” two beachfront tiki huts offer shady respite. If that does not provide enough of a cool-down, a big draw for condo owners and renters is the resort’s three heated pools. “We are the only condominium property on Siesta Key I know of that has three pools,” Szczesny said. The minimal stay for rentals is seven nights, and there is an on-site rental office. Each unit is wired for private, high-speed Wi-Fi, Szczesny said. About 90 percent of individual units have been renovated since they were built in the 60s and 70s, Szczesny said. One such renovated unit sold in February for $910,000. The twobedroom, two-bath 1,285-square-foot, fifth-floor end unit in Tower II sold for well above the $545,000 average sales price for condos sold on Siesta Key over the past three months, according to MLS data. The condo had been completely gutted and upgraded with modifications including a built-in wine cooler for 150 bottles, hidden

TV display in the master bath, and hurricane shutters throughout. “It was completely renovated,” Szczesny said. “The balcony is amazing.” Flynn said of the unit, “You can tell [the previous owner] put some money into it. It’s a gem.” As far as the best selling point, that was the unit’s views of the beach and Gulf, and the resort’s pool closest to the beach. Szczesny knows of three other tower condo units that are undergoing pending renovations in the upcoming year. A few of the major building upgrades include renovations at both Tower I and Tower II, along with new roofs. The Unit 1 villas received updated white, metal roofs two years ago. Within Jamaica Royale, there are two types of condo units: Garden Apartments are ground floor units with combination living room-dining room, separate kitchen, and patio; Tower apartments (in two towers) are twobedroom, two-bath units, featuring balcony Gulf views and large living/ dining rooms and separate kitchens. The first phase of Jamaica Royale was completed by Stanton Investment in the mid 1960s. An ashtray was given to each owner who purchased a condo, Szczesny said. The first phase was incorporated in 1969, after being turned over to the owners of Jamaica Royale Unit One, Inc. Tower II was completed in 1974. Although the resort’s original putting green no longer exists, the three pools, two barbeque areas, shuffleboard court and two tiki huts are some of the resort’s amenities. Condo association fees range from $1,500 to $1,983 monthly, depending on the building. There are four separate associations on the property.

Jamaica Royale has 175 units, including one-story villas, two-story townhouses, and two-bedroom Gulf condos in the community’s two towers.

RECENT SALES

Over the past year there have been eight recent sales at Jamaica Royal. The average sales price was $480 per square foot. In addition to the fifth-floor tower unit that sold for $910,000, recent sales included: • A 392-square foot studio villa in Unit 1, which has 82 units, that sold for $180,000 in October, 2014. • Two larger villas at 728 square foot sold for $280,000 in September and October 2014. • A 921-square foot, two-bedroom, two bath villa in Unit II sold for $385,000 in February, 2015, as well as another 921-square foot unit for $385,000 three months earlier. • A 1,285-square-foot condo in Tower II, on the eighth floor, sold for $650,000. • Another 1,285-square-foot condo in Tower II, on the sixth floor, sold for $725,000. Two units were under contract, as of press time, including a 1,194-square foot, renovated elevator apartment with a $1.1 million listing price. Realtor Ron Flynn of Key Solutions Real Estate Group contributed to the sales information used in this article. Other data was compiled from the Sarasota County Property Appraiser Office, and Multiple Listing Service (MLS).

Photo of the terrace from an end unit that sold in February, 2015 for $910,000.

The view of Pool Three from an end unit that sold in February, 2015 for $910,000.

The living area of the end unit that sold in February, 2015 for $910,000.

The sign, shown here in 1965, remains, but was upgraded recently.

18 Siesta Sand

June 2015

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Snapshots of Island Visitors

Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 1

Sarasota Real Estate Trends

1: Lilly, Annie from Sarasota. 2: Shawn & Kelly from Sarasota. 3: Chelsea, Sarah from Sarasota.

Blooming this month: QUESTION: There are many small trees lining streets and they have different color flowers, but seem to be the same kind of tree. What are they? ANSWER: Those are Crepe Myrtles [Lythraceae fauriei] . They may have white, lavender, or pink flowers depending on the sub- species. They are deciduous in the cold months, but they have an attractive bark pattern. The trees must be trimmed and pruned in late winter. Then the flower buds form on the new growth, and they bloom for several months, sometimes being called Hundred-Day â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Trees. Crepe Myrtles also grow as shrubs and are lovely and easy to grow

Annual Sales - 2000 to Current Condo

Single Family

Total

10000

5000

'00

'01

'02

'04

'05

'06

'07

'08

'09

'10

'11

'12

'13

'14

Annual Median Sale Price - 2001 to Current

$400k

in a small yard if pruned regularly. They need little water and like full sun exposure. Submitted by Jan Johannesen, Sarasota Garden Club.

'03

$300k $200k $100k $0k

2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 20142015*

KEY SOLUTIONS REAL ESTATE

For more information call (941)894-1255 Or visit www.keysolutionsrealestate.com

Single Family Condos *Statistics provided by MFR MLS

Activity has been robust, and clearly there continues to be tremendous interest in buying properties in Sarasota. In addition to the ongoing spring sales surge, distressed sales remained far below the levels experienced four years ago, indications of a strong market returning to historic norms.

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June 2015

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

VILLAGE MAP pgs 20 - 21

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 38

GULF GATE SHOPS pg 28-29

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 22

LOCAL MAPS INSIDE

LIVE MUSIC PAGE 24

The Publication with “Key” Information | www.SiestaSand.net | 941.349.0194

Siesta Key Drum Circle

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.

43rd Annual Amateur Sand Sculpting Contest Fourth time was the charm for the Muklewicz trio. Dave, along with his sons, Justin and Alec won both the People’s Choice award and first place in the adult category with their “Crush’s Castle” sand sculpture. The trio spent four hours completing their winning piece and have worked on perfecting this hobby for about seven years. They have a combined

21 years of experience building sandcastles. According to Andrea King, recreation program coordinator for Sarasota County Parks and Recreation, 24 teams entered the contest. There were three categories: Adults, Youth (11 to 17) and Children with cash prizes totaling $800 for the winners.

Winner in the Adult Category and People’s Choice: “Crush’s Castle”.

Dave, Justin and Alec Muklewicz with their sand sculpting creation titled “Crush’s Castle”.

2nd place in the Adult Category: “Neptune’s Folly” by Andy Luttrell, Angela Albertson, Cliff Richards, Lewis and Lucille Richardson.

3rd place in the Adult Category: “Mickey’s Castle” by Mike Bradley and William Pratesi.

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

20 Siesta Sand

June 2015

Food and Wine Pairings Refreshing Sangrias for Sunny Summer Dayz!

Did you know that Sangria was first introduced to the United States at the 1964 World’s Fair in New York? It’s the Spanish version of a traditional punch made with wine, fruits and brandy. Since then, Sangrias have become exceedingly popular and it seems that every restaurant has its own version. Over the years we have come across many different Sangria recipes and thought this is the perfect time to share them. Copy, cut, clip, save or download the following Sangria recipes from our friends at Food & Wine and give them a try on a beautiful sunny summer afternoon.

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

By Maureen Rooney, Siesta Key Wines & Gifts

White Sangria 1. 3 pears, sliced 2. 3 oranges, sliced 3. 6 Granny Smith apples, sliced 4. 24 canned lychees, drained 5. 1 1/2 pineapples, peeled and cut into large chunks 6. One 750-milliliter bottle vodka 7. One 750-milliliter bottle Sauvignon Blanc or other dry, citrusy white wine In an airtight container or large bowl covered with plastic wrap, combine all of the ingredients except the ice and refrigerate for at least 24 hours. Strain the mixture into a punch bowl, discarding all of the fruit except for 18 of the lychees. Add enough ice to chill the sangria to serving temperature. Serve in ice-filled white wine glasses and garnish with the reserved lychees.

Watermelon Sangria 1. 2 pounds seedless watermelon, peeled and cubed, plus 1/2 pound watermelon cut into balls with a melon baller and skewered on picks 2. 1 bottle dry white wine 3. 6 ounces vodka 4. 4 ounces Cointreau or other triple sec 5. 4 ounces Citrus Syrup 6. Ice In a blender, puree the watermelon cubes. Pour through a fine strainer into a pitcher. Add the white wine, vodka, Cointreau and Citrus Syrup. Stir and refrigerate for at least 2 hours. Stir again, then pour the sangria into ice-filled white wine glasses and garnish with the skewered watermelon balls.

Map B #42

Mango-Peach Sangria 1. 1/4 cup mint 2. 1 cup Grand Marnier 3. 2 peaches, cut into thin wedges 4. 1 bottle Viognier 5. 1/3 cup water 6. 1 mango, chopped 7. 1/3 cup sugar In a saucepan, cook the sugar

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 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

and water until the sugar dissolves; transfer to a pitcher and refrigerate until cold. Stir in the Grand Marnier, Viognier, mango, peaches and mint and serve over ice. Sangria Rosado 1. One 750-ml bottle dry rosé wine 2. 4 ounces brandy 3. 2 ounces maraschino liqueur 4. 3 ounces guava nectar or juice 5. ice 6. 8 ounces chilled ginger ale 7. 8 orange wheels 8. 8 maraschino cherries In a pitcher, combine the wine, brandy, liqueur and guava nectar. Refrigerate until chilled, about 2 hours. Stir well and pour into icefilled highball glasses. Top each drink with 1 ounce of ginger ale and garnish with an orange wheel and a cherry. Citrus Sangria Ingredients: 2 oranges, 2 lemons, 2 bottles dry white wine, 4 tablespoons sugar, 2 ounces brandy (1/4 cup), 2 ounces Cointreau liqueur (1/4 cup), 2 cups club soda or prosecco ice, as desired

Slice 1 orange and both lemon Juice the second orange. Combin orange and lemon slices and orang juice with the wine, sugar and liquo Chill until ready to serve then add ic and club soda, stirring gently.

Easy Siesta Sangria Ingredients: Frozen blackberrie Orange Slices, Lime Slices, Maraschin Cherries, Three Berry Shiraz, Splas of Blackberry Brandy (optional) Fill each wine glass with a ¼ cu

ns. ne ge or. ce

es, no sh

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Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

frozen blackberries. Pour Three Berry Shiraz over berries in glass. No need for any sugars to sweeten this wine. Top with slices of orange, lime and a cherry. Next, sit down on Siesta Key Beach and enjoy the sunset! What is your favorite Sangria? Email us your Sangria recipe at drinkwine@siestakeywines.com and we will share your version with our readers and customers. A toast to the Lazy Dayz of Summer, Salute! 5138C Ocean Blvd., 941-552-9105

Left: Trevor age 13, Brendan 18, Debbie, Cameron 16, Taryn 10, Paul from NY. Right: Emma age 9, Kim from Sarasota.

• segway rentals • PaDDleBOarDs • scOOter cars • kayak tOurs/rentals • Bikes • scOOters • Beach gear 5255 Ocean Blvd • Siesta Key Village www.robinhoodrentals.net

941-554-4242

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

Bringing you quality and comfort for more than 30 years!

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 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 D #11

A Taste of Germany moves south If you are looking for A Taste of Germany, you’ll have to go to the southern part of the island. The Hofmann’s have relocated to a larger storefront that provides them with the room for a “Bier Garten”. According to owner Tanja Hofmann, “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,” She went

on to say, “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. Their new location is located inside the courtyard of the Southbridge Mall, between Siesta 4-Rent and Davidson’s Drugs, 6575 Midnight Pass Road, units 11-13. They have been working non-stop to make their June 1, opening. Be sure to visit them at their new location.

June 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 / BAKERIES A Taste of Germany................................ C-3#14 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

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX

Key Casual Fashions............................... D-3 #17 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 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 #14 RESTAURANTS / CAFES A Taste of Germany................................ C-3#14

“Home of the Orange Squeeze!”

Big Water Fish Market................................C-3 #17 Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill...............A-5 #12 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

“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

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

22 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 New 50cc Scooters

HOuRly • Daily • Weekly

TREK BIKES • BEACH WHEELCHAIRS • PADDLEBOARDS SCOOTERS • SCOOTER CARS • KAYAKS • KAYAK TOURS CHAIRS/UMBRELLAS • STROLLERS • SNORKELING GEAR

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

$ off SCOOTER RENTALS Half Days/Full Days/Multi Day Rentals with this Coupon 12/31/15 EXPIRES 12/31/14

Bikes • Kayaks • Scooters • Kayak Tours

Map C-3 #14

Map B-3#8

A Taste of Germany 6575 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

Anna’s Deli 6535 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Road

Boatyard Waterfront Bar & Grill 1500 Stickney Point Rd.

MAP A-5 #12

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters 1249 Stickney Point Rd.

MAP A-3 #4

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

Crescent Beach Grocery 1211 Old Stickney Pt. Rd.

MAP B-3 #1

Siesta 4-Rent 6555 Midnight Pass Rd.

MAP C-3 #14

PLACE YOUR AD HERE Island Visitor Publishing 941-349-0194

MAP C-4 #17

www.siestasand.net

Off Key

941.349.0194

June 2015

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

By Robert Frederickson

|From City Hall to Visitors from Outer Space On Tiny Wheels Revolve the Turns of Fate

When Eileen Normile and Stan Zimmerman were appointed to fill vacancies on the Sarasota City Commission last fall, conventional wisdom held they’d have the inside track on securing the seats for full four-year terms in elections to be held just six months down the road. But instead, both were voted out of office last month, victims they say of a media Normile called ‘biased’ and Zimmerman termed ‘pitiful’ in comments published recently in the Herald Tribune. More likely, it was an antiincumbent sentiment among voters – this despite the two having been in office barely long enough to find their way around city hall. Also, being ‘chosen’ rather than elected, may have smacked of cronyism in the minds of some voters, especially given the unpopularity of the commission in recent years and the support the two appointees generally showed for the policies advanced by the three elected commissioners. For all the talk of voters wanting less divisiveness in government, the reality is that more-often than not they choose divided government over one in which one side or the other wields majority power. And in this case, party affiliation seemed less important than whether or not candidates were seen as pro-neighborhood or pro development. Displaced voter anger aimed at easy targets of opportunity? Perhaps. Especially given that the more appropriate targets for voter dissatisfaction - sitting commissioners Shaw, Chapman and Atwell - were not on the ballot this time around (actually Shaw was, but ran unopposed). That theory is at least as plausible as the ‘biased, pitiful media’ one advanced by the losing candidates - an explanation that carries some interesting irony, given Zimmerman’s and Normile’s shared background as working journalists. But the real irony for the two short-lived incumbents is that the seeds of their defeat were likely

planted in their earlier victory. Had they been passed over by the commissioners last fall, they would have been the outsiders this time around, and probably would have benefited accordingly. Oh those tiny wheels...

friend in need. And those friends and family members still miss him every day. Over the recent Memorial Day weekend, park visitors enjoyed the view, ran up and down the hill, flew their kites and rode their bikes, most not knowing the story behind those giant letters nearby. A fitting, living legacy for King, I’d say. And a reminder to the rest of us enjoying a bright spring day full of promise, that we are only able to do so but for the sacrifice and service of men and women like King.

Notable Graduation Speech Advice

A Fitting, if Somewhat Unconventional Memorial

Driving along Palmer Boulevard through the Celery Fields east of town you may have wondered about the giant initials “JK” etched into the side of the hill that serves as the centerpiece of the park. That hill has become a popular attraction for bird watchers and fitness enthusiasts alike, the former using it to gain a ‘birds eye’ view in pursuit of their hobby, the latter attracted to the aerobic workout it offers as they repeatedly run, walk or bike to its summit and careen back down again. The giant letters appear to be the result of a massive application of ‘Round-Up’ or some similar grass killing herbicide. So what’s the story? Vainglorious teen prank? A Harry Potter fan’s incomplete tribute to author J.K. Rowling? No. It’s actually a testament to friendship, respect and love for a fallen local soldier, John King, U.S. Air Force, who died as a result of a warehouse accident while serving at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland in 2013. King grew up in Sarasota. Graduated from Sarasota High. His friends and family members remember him as an uninhibited, fun-loving, free spirit, quick with a joke and a helping hand for a

Martha Raddatz of ABC News had this good advice for the graduating class at Kenyon College recently: “The people you choose to work with, to love, those who animate, inspire and energize you will define the quality of your life experience. Do not waste time with people who do not help bring out the best in you.” And in another commencement address, this one by Admiral William H. McRaven to the class of 2014 at the University of Texas, Austin last May, the former Navy Seal had this advice: “If you want to change the world, make your bed.” Laughter rose from the crowd, but, McRaven had a serious point to make. “I’ve been a Navy Seal for 36 years,” he continued. “But it all began with basic seal training. Seal training is six months of long, tortuous runs in the soft sand, midnight swims in the cold water off San Diego, obstacle courses, unending calisthenics, days without sleep, and always being cold, wet and miserable. It is six months of being constantly harassed by professionally trained warriors.” “Each morning the instructors would inspect our beds. If you had made it right, the corners would be square, the covers pulled tight, the pillow centered below the headboard and the extra blanket folded neatly at the foot of the rack. It was a simple task. Mundane at best. But every

morning we were required to make our beds to perfection. It seemed a little ridiculous to me at the time, considering the fact that we were aspiring to be real warriors. Tough battle hardened seals. But the wisdom of this simple act has been proven to me many times over. If you make your bed every morning, you will have accomplished the first simple task of the day. And it will encourage you to do another task. And another. And another. And by the end of the day, that one task completed will have turned into many.” “Making your bed will also reinforce that the little things in life matter. If you can’t do the little things right, you’ll never be able to do the big things. And if by chance you have a miserable day, you will come home to a bed that is made. That you made. A n d that will help encourage you that tomorrow will be better. So if you want to change the world, start off by making your bed.”

As Predicted, Little Love from County for Transit Proposal

We mentioned in this space last month a proposal from a private transit company, Transdev, to save Manatee and Sarasota County taxpayers upwards of $2 million annually by combining the two systems and operating them in a streamlined manner to increase service while reducing waste. We also suggested the proposal would probably go nowhere fast because it made far too much sense. Sure enough, Sarasota County Administrator Thomas Harmer told the Bradenton Herald recently “We’re not there yet,” adding that the completion of an operational analysis of the county’s transit operations must be finished first. Translation: Don’t call us, we’ll call you.

City Commission Meeting or Trailer for Really Bad Political Intrigue Movie?

We head back to City Hall for this next item. It seems Sarasota Mayor Willie Shaw - like

New Rules for Kayak/Paddle Board Rentals Postponed Again Originally scheduled to take effect in early February, the county sent an e-mail message to tour operators and kayak rental businesses in late December saying in part: “Due to the planned improvements at Turtle Beach Park, which include modification of the non-motorized launch area, the expansion of the nonmotorized water access plan and permit plan will be postponed. We anticipate the improvements will be complete mid-year 2015 and at that time we will plan to implement the non-motorized water access and permit program.” But as ‘mid-year’ approaches, those improvements have not been completed. Or even begun, at least beyond the planning stage. In a conversation with County Business Development Coordinator Matt Hughes, last week, Hughes said it would now be “at least early next year before the CIP (capital improvement project) at Turtle Beach Park is completed.” For at least some rental businesses on Siesta, that’s not bad news. Some have chafed at the added cost to run their operations due to a program that was originally developed

to address problems associated with congestion and competitive turf wars at Ted Sperling Park on Lido – problems that they say were never as widespread or serious at the Turtle Beach launch site. Indeed, the county’s decision to delay the program until at least next year would seem to support the notion that the situation on Siesta has not reached the point of being a public nuisance as it had at Ted Sperling, with frequent altercations between vendors and tourists complaining about the park’s over-commercialization. Hughes admitted as much, agreeing that problems at Turtle Beach “haven’t reached the level they had on Lido.” Still, the rules appear destined to take effect at some point, with a ranger being added to help monitor the launch site in the same way Ranger Pete Garcia currently monitors the launch area and parking lots at Ted Sperling Park on Lido. The difference? According to data from the county, there were over 32,000 commercial kayak/ paddle board rentals on Lido last year and 17,000 private launches. Exact figures are not available for traffic at Turtle Beach, but

most estimates are in the range of around 10-12,000 annually. So what will the new ranger do the rest of the time, given he or she is unlikely to be as busy as his/her counterpart on Lido? According to Hughes the position will also carry responsibilities related to the county campground on Midnight Pass Road just north of Turtle Beach. The county is currently conducting interviews for the new position, which will be full-time. The improvements slated for Turtle Beach include 35 new parking spaces, a new playground, a new boardwalk with walkovers to protect dunes, two new protected picnic areas, sidewalks and paths, pedestrian crossings and the new kayak launch site with a wash down area. That new Kayak launch will be on the north end of the lagoon, separate from the motorized boat launch area on the lagoon’s gulf side. Currently, there are no restrictions as to what types of vessels can launch there (i.e. motorized or non-motorized). But that will change when the improvement project is completed and the kayak rental medallion program takes effect. “Keeping

Zimmerman and Normile – is none too pleased with some of the press the commission has been receiving lately. He opened a recent meeting by letting loose with this harangue: “This commission has faced mockery, slander, conspiracy, treachery, even to the point of extortion, and we did survive.” I half expected Gloria Gaynor to burst through the chamber doors and break into song...

ET Calling? Best Not to Answer?

A group of scientists – including noted Physicist and author Stephen Hawking – has broken ranks with the majority in the scientific community by arguing against efforts to beam messages into space in hopes of finding intelligent life. The fear? That if found, such a life form might more closely resemble the one depicted in the film Alien than a benevolent example akin to the namesake star of the movie ET. A study of earthly life forms might offer some support for this position given the experience of “New World” populations in the 15th and 16th centuries at the hands of technologically ‘advanced’ European explorers. Hernando De Soto and Hernan Cortez may be memorialized locally, with streets, malls and festivals named after them, but they are not exactly revered among the descendants of the Aztecs, Incas and native tribes of the southwest and southeastern United States whose ancestors were decimated during the Conquistadors’ treks through the Americas.

“Curfew for Cemetery: News at 11:00”

That was the television ‘tease’ for a recent news broadcast. But it took a moment to connect the dots here and realize that the intended target of the new ordinance is the homeless population, not the dear departed full time residents of the Rosemary Cemetery. There are rarely problems with the latter in terms of curfew violations. Except perhaps on Halloween.

Continued from cover story

the motorized boats and nonmotorized areas separate will help end some of the confusion we’ve heard complaints about,” said Hughes. Although the earlier communication to rental businesses from the county indicated the project would be finished by summer, according to information on the county’s own web site, the contractor for the project is still yet

to be determined. Even the latest estimates of an early 2016 finish date may be optimistic. So at least for now, brick and mortar businesses are able to enjoy a reprieve from the $500 per Kayak fee they were anticipating they’d be hit with for the entire year. And given the pace of improvements at Turtle Beach, that reprieve may last even longer.

Blooming this month: QUESTION: We have seen some large trees which have beautiful purple flower clusters . They are spectacular – what are they? ANSWER: You are describing the Jacaranda Tree [Jacaranda mimosifolia]. It is in full bloom now and it is a beautiful specimen tree, needing a large yard. Those flower clusters can be over a foot long and contain hundreds of individual flowers. After the blooms are done, the fine foliage fills in and creates a lovely dappled shade canopy. The sight of a Jacaranda Tree in full bloom , against a gorgeous blue summer sky with a white cloud for contrast, is a sight you will remember for a long time! Submitted by Jan Johannesen, Sarasota Garden Club.

24 Siesta Sand

June 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Who’s Playing Tonight

By Mike Sales

Christian Becker

|An interview with Christian Becker I first met Christian when he had just returned to the area and was being recommended as the guy I needed to play bass. I found out why he was so highly endorsed when he showed up to the gig and played every song perfectly, just by watching my fingers! I’ve since worked with him countless times and have gone to see him play solo and with bands and he never disappoints. A true virtuoso and

consummate professional, I’ve come to know him as a friend as well. I interviewed him in his practice studio at his home, before a rehearsal…

so I sold all of my camera equipment and bought a sitar…that was 23 years ago and I’ve been playing professionally ever since.

WPT: Where are you originally from? Christian: Well, I’ve lived all over the world. I was born in Lima, Peru and then we moved to Australia for 5 years. I don’t remember much about that except koala bears and parrots. After that we lived in Virginia near DC and then we spent 20 years in the Philippines and Asia, including a couple of years in Japan. I went to college in Arizona and then studied at Berklee College of Music in Boston. I moved here in 2000 for 3 years, returned to Peru for 8 years where I became fluent in speaking Spanish and worked on my music and then came back here in 2011.

WPT: Is music all you do for a living? Christian: All I do is music; play gigs, record, teach.

WPT: When did you start playing music and what was your first instrument? Christian: When I was 16 years old, I picked up the guitar and got into Jimmy Hendrix, Pink Floyd and all of what we now call “classic” rock. Later in college my friends and I formed a band. WPT: When did you start playing music for a living? Christian: The college band began to command a lot of our time and focus, so we had a talk to decide if we were going to continue our career paths we were studying for in college or truly commit to music. I had been studying to be a photojournalist, but chose music,

CLUB

BLASE CAFÉ

MONDAY

BLU QUE ISLAND GRILL

12:30‐3:30pm‐Reggae 4‐6pm – Steel Drums 6:30 ‐10:30pm‐Live

DAIQUIRI DECK RAW BAR In the Village 941‐349‐8697

TUESDAY

Live Music 6‐10pm

941‐346‐0738

WPT: How did you wind up living in Sarasota and playing on Siesta Key? Christian: I came here for family. My grandmother used to live here and my family would come visit her on vacation. My parents started coming here 6 months out of the year and I have other family here now too. WPT: How did you break into the Siesta Key market? Christian: When I first got here, I played at the old Beach Club and the old Siesta Key Oyster Bar, then I went to Peru and returned in 2011 and have been playing on the island at The Hub, SKOB and the Cottage ever since. WPT: Do you play band gigs for hire or as a solo? Christian: I play both.

WPT: What different kinds of

music can you be found playing in a band on any given day on the island? Christian: Caribbean, island style, rock, jazz, country…I’m experienced in a little bit of everything, which is good because people know I’m versatile and will call me for just about any kind of gig. WPT: What kind of music do you play solo? Christian: I play originals, which are Peruvian influenced, but I mix it up. You could call it experimental World Music… fusion…I’ll play, for example, the Indian Sitar with an AfroPeruvian rhythm. WPT: Where can people go to hear you play originals on Siesta Key? Christian: I usually play Saturdays at The Hub (Baja Grill). I used to play more often at more venues on the island, but I’ve been traveling a lot. I’ll be touring this summer with a really talented musician from Peru, named Herbert Quinteros. We’ll be playing in France, Spain and Russia. It’s kind of a trade

Christian Becker performs weekly on Siesta Key including Saturdays at The Hub The Hub is located at 1548 Ocean Blvd in Siesta Key and features live music daily 941-349-6800 Mike Sales is a local singer/songwriter for more info visit www.mikesalessings.com

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE

In the Village 941‐349‐9822 In the Village

WPT: How many different instruments do you play? Christian: Guitar… electric and acoustic, Bass, Indian Sitar, Peruvian Pan Flute, bamboo pan flutes, which are called “Zampona’s”, and all kinds of percussion and hand drums.

to give up regular weekly gigs, but I can’t say no to the rest of the world! WPT: Where do you see your career going from here? Christian: I see my music going in the direction of healing. I’ve been looking into working with the people, with music vibration and positive intention to unlock power and positive healing properties. I’ve always noticed this, even while playing in restaurants. In fact, I was jamming in Darwin’s (on 4th), last week. We got the house rocking and afterward, a lady came up to thank us. She said her and her husband were having real trouble with their marriage and headed toward a divorce. They had tried everything, including therapy and were at their wits end, but our music inspired them to dance for the first time in years. She said they felt their marriage was healed and both decided to give each other another chance to make it work. She said she’d come up to thank us and I said, no, no, thank you!

Scott Curts (3‐7pm)

WEDNESDAY Live Music 6‐10pm

THURSDAY Live Music 6‐10pm

FRIDAY

Live Music (6‐10pm)

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 6:30‐10:30pm‐Live Music 6:30‐10:30pm‐Live Music 6:30‐10:30pm‐Live Music 6:30‐10:30pm‐Live Music Billy Lyon (3‐7pm)

Noel Harris (3‐7pm)

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Live Music 6‐10pm

Live Music 6 ‐10pm

1‐4 ‐ Live Music 6‐10pm: Live Music

1‐5pm Live Music 6‐10pm: Live Music

Kevin Thompson (3‐7pm) DJ Crawford (10pm)

Spark Notes (3‐7pm) DJ TJ (10pm)

Miles Bosworth (3‐7pm) DJ Crawford (10pm)

RPM 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Acoustic Pete 1‐5pm Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Matt Gerhardt (3‐7pm) K. Conn (9pm) Road Block 2‐6pm Live Music 6‐10pm Live Music‐Back Patio (5‐9pm) DJ 10pm – 2am

Rodney Shenk 6‐10pm

RPM 6‐10pm

Patrick 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

Ben Hammond 7‐11pm

Open mic night 7‐11pm

Kettle of Fish 7‐11pm

TGIM

Kettle of Fish 9pm‐midnight

DJ Rev Kev 10pm – 2am

Live Band 8/9pm‐Midnight

Live Band 8 – 11pm DJ 11‐2am

Live Band 8 –11pm DJ 11pm‐2am

THE COTTAGE

Live Music 6‐9pm

Live Music 7‐10pm

Live Music 6‐9pm

THE HUB‐BAJA GRILL

Live Music Noon – 3pm 3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm

Live Music Noon – 3pm

Live Music 1 – 4pm

Live Music 1‐4pm 4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 ‐ midnight

Live Music Noon – 3pm

4:30 – 7:30pm 8:30 –midnight

Karaoke 9pm – 1am

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

Chris Otto (Every other Fri) Andres Collin 5‐9pm

Larry Williams 5‐9pm

(Reggae Music)

GILLIGANS

In the Village 941‐346‐8122

Lelu’s Coffee Lounge In the Village 941‐346‐5358

SIESTA KEY OYSTER BAR (SKOB) In the Village 941‐346‐5443 THE BEACH CLUB In the Village 941‐349‐6311 In the Village 941‐312‐9300

In the Village 941‐349‐6800

BACKROOM SALOON @ CAPT. CURTS

Crescent Beach Shops

941‐349‐3885

BOATYARD BAR & GRILL Over the South Bridge

941‐921‐6200

Crescent Beach Shops

941‐349‐3885 SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS

3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

Acoustic Open Mic w/ Nally & Egglefield 6‐10pm Berry Oakley’s Skylab 7‐11pm

Live Music Noon – 3pm Live Music Noon – 3pm

3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm

Karaoke 9pm ‐1am LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10PM

CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey

941‐966‐1901 Sharkey’s on the Pier 1600 Harbor Dr. S. Venice 941‐488‐1456 Snook Haven 5000 E Venice Ave, Venice 941‐485‐7221

SEE WEBSITE FOR BANDS

SHARKEYSONTHEPIER.COM

SEE WEBSITE FOR BANDS SNOOKHAVEN.COM

LIVE MUSIC 11:30 AM – 2:30PM 5‐8PM

LIVE MUSIC 11:30AM‐2:30PM 5‐8PM

LIVE MUSIC 11:30AM – 2:30PM 5‐8PM

Above information is subject to change. We suggest calling venues for confirmation.

Swamp Donkie 2‐6pm

Rising Tide 8pm – 12am

Live Music 4‐8pm LIVE MUSIC 8PM – MIDNIGHT LIVE MUSIC 11:30AM – 2:30PM 5‐8PM

Eddie Jame Jazz Band 6‐10pm Dana & Co 2‐6pm Mike Tozier 8pm – 12am

Live Music 4‐8pm

TBA – 2 pm Tozier – 5pm Chris Otto ‐ 10pm Democracy (Reggae) 10pm‐2am

3:30 – 6:30pm 7‐10pm

Democracy 4‐8pm Live Music 4‐8pm

LIVE MUSIC 8PM – MIDNIGHT

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10PM

LIVE MUSIC 11:30AM – 2:30PM 5‐8PM

LIVE MUSIC 1‐5pm

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

June 2015

Island Humor [ Arthur is 85 years old. He’s played golf every day since his retirement 20 years ago. One day he arrives home looking downcast. “That’s it,” he tells his wife. “I’m giving up golf. My eyesight has got so bad, once I’ve hit the ball, I can’t see where it went.” His wife sympathizes. As they sit down, she has a suggestion: “Why don’t you take my brother with you, and give it one more try.” “That’s no good,” sighs Arthur. “Your brother is ninety-two. He can’t help.” “He may be ninety-two, but his eyesight is perfect,” says the wife. So the next day, Arthur heads off to the golf course with his brother-in-law. He tees up, takes an almighty swing, and squints down the fairway. He turns to the brother-in-law. “Did you see the ball?’ “Of course I did! I have perfect eyesight,” says the brother-in-law. “Where’d it go?” asks Arthur. “Can’t remember.” [ Mildred, the island gossip and self-appointed monitor of moral character, kept sticking her nose in other people’s business. No one liked it, but no one had the courage to confront her. One day, she accused a new island resident

named Joe of being an alcoholic after she saw his old pick-up parked in front of the only bar on the island. She emphatically told him and several others that everyone seeing it would know what he was doing. Joe, a man of few words just stared at her for a long moment then walked away. He didn’t explain, defend or deny. He said nothing. Later that evening, Joe quietly parked his pick-up in front of Mildred’s house…and left it there all night. [ 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 replied. “But I didn’t!” exclaimed the very surprised manager. “Well that’s too bad. I was here and you could have.”

Café Gabbiano Bellini Bar Bellini (The Original) Prosecco over fresh peach juice.

HOTTEST BAR IN GULF GATE... MLB/College Packages FULL BAR

Strawberry Bellini – Prosecco over one muddled strawberry, one whole strawberry, Mango Bellini – Prosecco over one muddled mango, one whole mango, Blue Bellini – Prosecco over one muddled blueberry, one whole blueberry, Raspberry Bellini – Prosecco over one muddled raspberry, one whole raspberry Black Bellini – Prosecco over one muddled blackberry, one whole blackberry Bellini Sorbet – Prosecco over peach sorbet.

6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905

Bellini Scrobino – Prosecco over lemon sorbet.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

onth. M e h T f o r e d n e t r Ba

Cafe Gabbiano Wine and Bar e in F t, n ra u a st e R Key Village a st ie S ., d lv B n 5104 Ocea 941-349-1423

Name of Bartender: Ashley Hometown: I was born in Sarasota and

attended high school in North Port Q: How long have you been bartending?

A: 3 years .

Q: What was the strangest or funniest thing you experienced at work? A: A beachgoer stopped in one night about a year ago. Our homemade limoncello was his drink of choice. He went missing from his table for a while. 30 minutes later, he was discovered in the bathroom, laying on the floor. The only words he could put together was “Poop…Poop” over and over. We gave him some water and got him a safe ride home. Q: What do you do in your spare time? A: In my spare time I love going to the gym, boating, and visiting our number one beach, Siesta Key. I also am in school, my dream is to be a CRNA so I spend a lot of my time studying. Q: How would you describe yourself? A: I would like to say that I am kind, funny, and easy to talk to.

Q: How would you describe where you work? A: Café Gabbiano is a beautiful restaurant located on Ocean Blvd. We have over 250 different varieties of wine as well as a full bar with a great bartender :). Everything on the menu is amazing from our truffle sacchettini to our Allen Brothers steak, as well as our fresh veal. It is a very happy place to work and the owners Marc and Peter do everything they can to make our guests feel happy and welcomed. Q: When’s the best time to see you? A: The best time to come see me is at happy hour which is from 5 to 6:30 p.m. Happy hour includes 5 dollar house wines, 5 dollar well drinks and specialty drinks including our limoncello martinis (which is made from our homemade limoncello) and our delicious bellinis. Our happy hour also includes 5 dollar half portion appetizers.

26 Siesta Sand

June 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Notes from the Island Fishmonger

Water World

Captain Jim Klopfer

By Scott Dolan

There is an art to everything...even buying fish! Buying food is not brain surgery of course. We all do it every day but when buying fish there is actually an art to it. Anybody can go to a fish counter and tell your fishmonger what you want. This quick and easy way of buying will get you what you want most of the time but true foodies want to make sure their fish purchase is of the best quality available.

Adventure Charters 941-371-1390

5. Fish should be purchased on your way home. It is best to keep your fish cool as much as possible so take it straight home to refrigerate if you can and don’t be afraid to ask for a bag of ice to keep it cool during travel especially if you have to make another stop. If your fish is fresh enough, Ceviche and or Tuna Poke are enjoyable summer meals to beat the heat. Both Ceviche and Poke are available at Big Water Fish Market.

Here are some tips for buying / getting the best quality fish: 1. Despite your instinct to go to your local fish counter early in the day, you should ask your fish monger what the best time is to come to the shop in order to get the freshest product. All markets will be a little different. As for Big Water Fish Market, we do all of our buying and filleting in the mornings so the best time to visit our market is in the afternoon.

Bethany Steward from Pepperell, MA with a big June speckled trout.

June will find Sarasota beaches lined with anglers in search of the ultimate gamefish, tarpon, especially early in the month. Catching these giants is really not complicated. Rig a 25 lb spinning outfit with 36” of 80lb flourocarbon leader and a 5/0 hook, then position the boat 100 yards off the beach and cast a live crab, pinfish, sardine, lure, or fly at any pod that presents itself. One benefit of the popularity of tarpon fishing is that pressure in the bay will be light. With many anglers “out on the beach” the bays are relatively unpressured. Bait will be plentiful, those proficient in cast-netting will have no problem filling their live-wells with frisky pilchards. Once the well is filled, you can choose to anchor up on a likely spot or drift across a large flat. Live shrimp is also deadly on most species, but as we move into summer the pinfish become more of a problem. Anglers casting artificial baits will do well with scented soft plastics, Rapala X-Raps, and spoons. The flats around both passes will be productive for speckled trout, Spanish mackerel, pompano, bluefish, and ladyfish. Shrimp under a popping cork, live pilchards, and artificial lures are all productive baits. 3” Gulp shrimp in new penny, natural, or glow and Cotee grubs in olive, rootbeer/gold on a ¼ oz jig head will account for plenty of fish. Redfish will begin to school up on the

|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.

Cut up a 1/2 lb. Hogfish, Snapper or Grouper into bite size chunks. In a bowl mix: - Juice of 2 fresh squeezed lemons - Juice of 1 fresh squeezed lime - Juice of 1 fresh squeezed Florida Orange - Chopped onions, tri-color peppers and pickled jalapenos to taste - Salt and pepper to taste - Rough cut fresh cilantro - Caribbean Lime Hot Sauce (Available only at Big Water Fish Market) Add the fish and gently fold the fish into the citrus marinade. Chill and marinate for 30 minutes. Serve and relax. Live well.....Eat fish. Scott

3. Ask questions. When buying local, you always want to buy fresh and wild caught compared to previously frozen or farm raised. A good fishmonger should have traceability of the product meaning he or she should be able to tell you when the fish was caught, when it came in to the market, where it was caught and often by whom. 4. If you’re buying whole fish, make sure the eyes are clear and look fresh. Cloudy eyes are a sign of old fish. Make sure all shells of shellfish are closed before purchase, shrimp should have a firm texture with no odor and your live lobsters are still very active and lively.

|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.

Big Water Fish Market Ceviche Recipe

2. Don’t be afraid to inspect your fish before you purchase. You should smell it, look at it up close and thoroughly inspect it before you buy. There should be no fishy smell and the fish should appear moist and glossy not slimy. Fishy smelling fish comes from fish that is past its prime. If you are buying really fresh fish, your fish should smell like seawater or cucumber.

shallow flats this month. A low, incoming tide is preferred, the fish will move up onto the flats with the rising tide. Scented soft plastics, weedless spoons, and topwater plugs work well for those who prefer to cast artificial lures. Live bait can be extremely effective, anchoring up and fishing potholes is a proven technique. You can count on one thing in June in Sarasota, it is going to be hot! One way to beat the heat is to fish in the evening and at night. Snook are nocturnal by nature and feed heavily in the dark. Working lighted docks and bridges is the most popular night fishing method. Anchor a cast away up-current of the light, then toss a live or artificial shrimp, baitfish, small jig, plug, or fly into the shadow line of the light. You may also catch mangrove snapper, speckled trout, ladyfish, jacks, and maybe even a tarpon fishing the bridges at night. Beach fishing for snook was decent last season, and it should be good again this summer, especially with the mild winter that we had. Walk the beach in the morning, looking for snook in the surf line. Cast out a small spoon, plug, or jig in front of any snook that you spot. This is a great time to break out the fly rod, white baitfish patterns are best. Flounder, trout, ladyfish, mackerel, jacks, pompano, and other species will hit live and frozen shrimp and jigs off the Siesta Key beaches in June.

JUNE 2015 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay

June 2015

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33' Date

Day

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset

126am

High Tide 1.4

1136am

High Tide 2.3

601am

Low Tide 1.0

801pm

Low Tide -0.2

635am

822pm

732pm

554am

212am

1.3

1208pm

2.4

628am

1.1

839pm

-0.3

635am

822pm

829pm

640am

256am

1.3

1243pm

2.5

658am

1.1

919pm

-0.3

635am

823pm

924pm

732am

340am

1.3

122pm

2.5

734am

1.1

1002pm

-0.4

634am

823pm

1018pm

827am

426am

1.3

207pm

2.5

819am

1.2

1048pm

-0.3

634am

824pm

1109pm

926am

514am

1.4

258pm

2.3

916am

1.2

1136pm

-0.2

634am

824pm

1156pm

1026am

602am

1.4

357pm

2.1

1030am

1.2

634am

825pm

648am

1.5

508pm

1.9

1227am

-0.1

1202pm

1.1

634am

825pm

1242am

1230pm

733am

1.6

637pm

1.6

119am

0.2

141pm

1.0

634am

826pm

124am

132pm

816am

1.7

819pm

1.5

210am

0.4

313pm

0.7

634am

826pm

206am

234pm

857am

1.9

958pm

1.4

259am

0.6

431pm

0.5

634am

826pm

248am

336pm

937am

2.1

1123pm

1.4

345am

0.7

535pm

0.2

634am

827pm

331am

438pm

1016am

2.3

427am

0.9

630pm

0.0

634am

827pm

415am

540pm

1234am

1.4

1054am

2.4

505am

1.0

719pm

-0.2

634am

827pm

503am

641pm

136am

1.3

1131am

2.5

540am

1.1

803pm

-0.3

634am

828pm

552am

739pm

228am

1.3

1208pm

2.5

616am

1.1

844pm

-0.3

634am

828pm

645am

835pm

312am

1.3

1245pm

2.5

653am

1.2

921pm

-0.3

635am

828pm

739am

926pm

349am

1.3

123pm

2.4

736am

1.2

958pm

-0.2

635am

829pm

834am

1012pm

421am

1.4

203pm

2.3

824am

1.2

1034pm

-0.1

635am

829pm

929am

1055pm

452am

1.4

247pm

2.1

920am

1.2

1111pm

0.0

635am

829pm

1022am

1134pm

525am

1.5

335pm

1.9

1024am

1.1

1149pm

0.2

635am

829pm

1115am

601am

1.6

431pm

1.7

1137am

1.1

635am

829pm

1206pm

1211am

639am

1.6

540pm

1.6

1230am

0.3

1257pm

1.0

636am

830pm

1257pm

1246am

719am

1.7

704pm

1.4

112am

0.5

220pm

0.9

636am

830pm

148pm

120am

759am

1.8

841pm

1.3

155am

0.6

336pm

0.7

636am

830pm

239pm

154am

838am

1.9

1013pm

1.3

239am

0.8

440pm

0.5

637am

830pm

331pm

229am

916am

2.0

1131pm

1.3

321am

0.9

535pm

0.3

637am

830pm

425pm

307am

954am

2.2

401am

1.0

622pm

0.1

637am

830pm

520pm

347am

1235am

1.3

1031am

2.3

440am

1.1

706pm

-0.1

637am

830pm

616pm

432am

128am

1.3

1110am

2.4

518am

1.2

747pm

-0.2

638am

830pm

713pm

521am

Phase Full

1128am 3rd

New

1st

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

June 2015

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

The Beautiful Birds of Siesta Key Beach By Allan Worms, PhD., Wildlife Biologist (retired) Photos by Claire Herzog Siesta Key Beach is known for its cool and beautiful white sand and its gently sloping shore. But it is also known for the outstanding array of birds that live and breed on the beach, that come to catch fish along the shore or to feed on the varied organisms in the “wrack” line. This article features some of the beautiful and often rare birds you may find on our beach and explains a little about why it is such a good beach for bird

life and where you might see these special animals. We mentioned the “wrack”. This is the name of the accumulated line of sea weeds, grasses and even live organisms often left behind on the shore after each high tide. An important food source, it attracts many small birds such as Sanderlings, sand pipers, plovers and the migrating Ruddy Turnstone shown below.

Ruddy Turnstone

Wading Birds in a Tidal Pool

Snowy Plover The Ruddy Turnstone is a seasonal visitor, typically seen in the spring and early summer. This male is ordinarily a plain bird. But seen here, in full breeding plumage of white, chestnut brown and black and even with stripes on his head, will soon leave Siesta Key beach and begin a long flight to the Arctic Circle where the species breeds. Importantly, this species feeds, not just on fish or insects, but on crustaceans, mollusks, and many other organisms found in the shoreline “wrack” and elsewhere along the beach. When you see one of these beautiful little Ruddy Turnstones searching for food you will know quickly why it is called a “turn stone”. It uses its bill to turn through seaweed, shells and other objects to find food needed to build strength. Moreover, you will appreciate why raked beaches, while clear and scenic, are often referred to as “dead”. Native plants, many food organisms and the detritus supporting food organisms are disturbed and, eventually, gone.

Next is the beautiful small Snowy Plover hen seen at her nest. This very small bird’s white plumage blends well with the Siesta Key beach sand. She stands over two spotted eggs that also blend in with the natural beach cover. Hopefully, she will lay a third egg and then begin incubating them. Ultimately, she and her mate are challenged with helping the young chicks learn to feed not on fish, but on insects and the many other small organisms on the sandy beach and in the dunes. Some Snowy Plover chicks may try to eat any insect moving and small enough to be caught. The Snowy Plover is a seriously challenged species. Once many more nested among Florida’s barrier islands. Now there are only about 200 nesting pairs throughout the whole state. Habitat destruction, hand in hand with community growth, is regarded as the primary reason. Notice: she’s watching you!

This final photo illustrates several species of tall wading birds in a tidal pool that is present now on the north end of the beach. This pool, a mix of salt water from high tides and freshwater from rains, was formed by wind and waves and by the sweep of sand accumulating from Big Pass and the Gulf of Mexico. The pool provides a rich variety of foods ranging from small fishes to many kinds of invertebrates and other bottom organisms. The birds in this pool photo include a seldom seen Tri-colored Heron (on the left), several Snowy Egrets and Great White Egrets, and a brilliantly colored Roseate Spoonbill at the back edge of the pool. The Roseate Spoonbill is also a bird we don’t often see in this area. If you visit this pool now and on future opportunities you may see the various species of birds change as the water level changes. A shallower summer pool typically

Sea Turtle Rescued by Coast Guard released after care at Mote Marine Lab A loggerhead sea turtle rescued by the U.S. Coast Guard and treated for boat-strike injuries at Mote Marine Laboratory was returned to the wild from Lido Key in Sarasota County. (photo courtesy: Mote Aquarium) The 255-pound, adult female turtle is nicknamed “Mrs. Turt Lee” after Chief Petty Officer Ekahi Lee, supervisor of the Coast Guard crewmembers who rescued the animal. During the release, Mote caregivers and Coast Guard officials carried Mrs. Turt Lee down to the beach, surrounded by a crowd of well-wishers. After the turtle got her bearings on the shore, Mote staff guided her out to sea. Once in the water, Mrs. Turt Lee raised her head to take a breath before swimming toward the horizon and out of sight.

Sea turtle season is here on Siesta beaches: off with the lights! A portion of this article is being re-run in tribute to Paul Roat / contributing writer Florida has snowbird, stone crab, mullet, tarpon, stingray, and myriad other seasons. Beachgoers currently are enjoying a joyful sea turtle nesting season. Sea turtles call Florida’s beaches a brief home from May to late October. Females come to shore at the dead of night on the same stretch of beach upon which they were born to burrow a hole in the sand. The hole is home for her nest of 100 or so eggs. She covers the nest, returns to the Gulf of Mexico, and three months or so later the hatchlings claw their way out of the sand to scamper to the water. Early morning beachgoers can sometimes find the marks of the she-turtle crawl. Her bulldozer tracks in the sand indicate her path through the sand, with the mound her nest and the rest of the path back to the surf the finale of her night’s excursion. If you live on or near the beach, turn off your lights. Turtles are drawn to lights. Before we built our houses on the sandy barrier island shores, that light came off the moon and stars reflected from the Gulf. Today, it’s our streetlights and illuminated pools, beckoning mama and babies away from the surf and to their doom. No lights are good for turtles. There are eight species of sea turtles found in Southwest Florida: Green, Black, Loggerhead, Kemp’s Ridley, Olive

Photo by Paul Roat

Ridley, Hawksbill, Flatback, and Leatherback. Most-common are Loggerheads, the rare Kemp’s Ridley, Greens, and the huge Leatherbacks. Be aware that sea turtles are a protected species and law enforcement personnel are vigilant in prosecution of any turtle violations. In other words, turn off your beach lights.

becomes more of a rich “soup” of food species and, thus, attracts different feeding birds. Also, along the perimeter of the pool you may find Semi-palmated and Least Sandpipers, as well as Snowy Plovers and various other shorebird species. If you enjoy seeing beautiful birds and the other wildlife that frequent Siesta Key Beach, don’t pass up an opportunity to walk north from Access 11 all the way to the tidal pool. And now is a good time to find migrating birds feeding and resting on the beach before going farther on their long pilgrimages. Be careful, however, not to disturb the resting migrants or the nesting birds such as those in the protected buffered areas. The long distance migrants need food and rest for strength and the nesting Snowy Plovers, Least Terns and other birds need rest and security to incubate their eggs and raise their young. Enjoy and protect.

Jr. Lifeguard Program needs your help

The Sarasota County Junior Lifeguard Program is looking to raise funds to purchase new sets of boards, belts, cans and cover repairs on a trailer that was donated five years ago. They would also like to provide financial coverage for campers looking to compete in the competitions by paying for USLA memberships and competition fees, as well as provide unique items specific to the competition (beanies, rashguards, shorts). This program is like a crash course in Lifeguarding 101 and ends with a friendly competition that incorporates the team aspect of lifeguarding as well as individual skilled races (beach run, open water swim, open water paddle). It prepares campers who would like to participate in the yearly event hosted by the United States Lifesaving Association and is credited with taking dozens of competitors in recent years and bringing home a handful of medals in every age group. Junior Lifeguard Program Director, Rick Hinkson and Instructor, Stephanie Ganey head up this popular course. Heading into its 6th year, Ganey said, “Our funds have pretty much dried up since the last fundraising drive so we’re looking for anyone who’s willing to help keep this program afloat with better, safer equipment and keep our trailer viable for transport and winter storage of our gear.” Their goal is to raise $6,000. If you would like to donate, please go to GOFUNDME Page at: SRQ JUNIOR LIFEGUARD GEAR DRIVE: http://www.gofundme. com/srqjrlg The USLA Sarasota County Chapter of junior lifeguards is a not-for-profit LLC. For more information regarding tax id or any other inquiries, please contact Rick Hinkson at SRQJRLG@GMAIL.COM.

28 Siesta Sand

June 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Snapshots of Island Visitors Fiona’s Children’s Clothing Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 1

Moms looking for high-quality, haute couture for their little beauty queens have been quietly frequenting a small shop in Gulf Gate. Some come from as far as Miami and Palm Beach to find a custom embroidered or sequined gown for that special event. Others come to purchase the sophisticated but functional everyday wear for their cherished grandkids. Fiona’s Children’s Clothing, located at 6534 Gateway Ave., has been outfitting young ladies for Holy Communions, Bat Mitzvahs, father-daughter dances, beauty pageants and other special occasions since the store opened in 2010. Styles range from classic to contemporary to whimsical and are available in size newborn to 16x. Owner, Karen Clarke’s passion revolves around fashion and she knows how to provide a memorable experience for both mothers and daughters. Your fashionista will love the attention she receives at Fiona’s and thrilled with her customordered designer gown. For those that haven’t been to Fiona’s, make this your first stop the next time a special event dress is in order. This could be where your search begins and ends. Fiona’s Children’s Clothing Hours: Tuesday-Friday: 10am-5pm; Saturday: 10am-4pm; Other hours by appointment Phone: 941.400.0732 Email: fionaschildrenswear@gmail.com

July 2 Fundraising Event Friends of Gulf Gate Library songs for his performances, which reflect what he readily calls his “deep abiding love for traditional American lore.” With his rich baritone voice and a colorful array of folk instruments, he has entertained three U.S. presidents and appeared on and off Broadway. He also has written a show about the American Civil War, “Shiloh Hill,” which was produced by Ford’s Theater in Washington, D.C.

1: Asher, Cherith from Sarasota. 2: Lucia & Bernardo from Brazil. 3: David & Christina from Alabama. 4: Nick, Zane, Joseph from Sarasota. 5: Carl & Estelle from Sarasota.

Beloved songs and historical commentary performed by “American Troubadour” Bill Schustik, in observance of the United States’ 239th birthday, will be featured during a July 2 fundraiser at Gulf Gate Library in Sarasota. An ice cream social will follow the entertainment at 7112 Curtiss Ave. Toppings will be on tap to tempt every taste bud. Admission for the event, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. is a $15 donation per person. The deadline for reservations is June 25. Reservation forms will be available in the library lobby and in the bookstore operated by the Friends of Gulf Gate Library, which is sponsoring the festivities. An RSVP form may be filled out and turned in with a check or cash at the Friends of Gulf Gate Library Bookstore at 7112 Curtiss Ave. or mailed with payment to Friends of Gulf Gate Library, 7112 Curtiss Ave., Sarasota, FL 34231. Donations are tax-deductible. In Schustik’s travels across the country, he has collected stories and

Join Schustik and the Friends of Gulf Gate Library in an early Independence Day celebration. And while you are enjoying the performance and treats, relish the knowledge that you also are providing much appreciated financial support for “extras” that will broaden opportunities for Gulf Gate Library patrons of all ages. For more information, call Deanie Erb, president of the Friends organization, at 941-922-6304.

G-43

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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

June 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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30 Siesta Sand

June 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

What’s brewing in Tallahassee

Sand Scripts - Opinion

Roundabout should be axed The Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is considering options to handle traffic and pedestrian safety at one of the Key’s main intersections. A roundabout is one of the options for the Midnight Pass Road and Beach Road intersection. The second option is to add a right turn signal lane on Midnight Pass Road. The third option is to do nothing. FDOT is going through the process now to determine what they will do and will present their decision this summer. This proposal took everyone by surprise since residents and business leaders were not aware that this intersection was even a problem. Former County Commissioner Nora Patterson mentioned at a SKA meeting that the advisory committee to FDOT was against this proposal. So why is FDOT disregarding their own advisory committee’s recommendation? FDOT representatives cited safety concerns as a reason for proposing the roundabout. Siesta Sand was able to acquire the Collision Report that FDOT sighted. This report was published in the March 2015 edition. The report goes back to August of 2006 with 23 accidents reported. One of the accidents on the report happened in the parking lot of the White Sands. Of the 23 accidents, 4 were DUI, 6 were fled the scene, more than likely DUI and the remaining reports were sighted for careless driving. No major accidents in this intersection and zero fatalities.

On a busy beach day the overflow of parking moves down to the parking lot at St. Boniface Church on Midnight Pass Road. These beachgoers cross the intersection twice. It is the law that drivers must yield for pedestrians in a marked intersection. The fine is $166 for violators. Traffic already backs up Stickney Point Road due to the unintended consequences of the no turn on red electronic sign installed by FDOT at the Midnight Pass and Stickney Point intersection along with the “at will” crossing along Midnight Pass Road before this intersection. What unintended consequences will a roundabout have on a busy day in Season? I sat through two presentations at the SKA meetings and attended the March public workshop. The price tag for a roundabout with improvements comes in at over 2 million dollars. The cost to maintain the intersection now is about $4000 a year. Do the math to see how many years it would take to recoup this amount. I am not against roundabouts where they are needed. This instance; however, does not warrant such excess expenditure of tax dollars. To voice your opinion to FDOT, go to this link: www.swflroads.com/sr758/beach_road_ intersection/index.html Bob Stein Siesta Sand/Island Visitor Publishing www.islandvp@verizon.net

Scott allows secret recordings, unbuckles letter carriers

Children in Florida will be able to secretly record conversations related to sexual abuse or other violent acts, while rural letter carriers won’t have to wear seat belts while working their routes, under two bills signed into law by Gov. Rick Scott. The signing of the measure (HB 7001) about secret recordings came a day after Richard McDade, a Fort Myers man who spent four years in prison on charges of sexually assaulting his stepdaughter, was acquitted of the charges by a jury in Lee County. The Florida Supreme Court in December ordered a new trial for McDade, declaring that recordings made by McDade’s stepdaughter should not have been allowed into his initial Lee County trial. State law generally bars recording of conversations unless all parties agree, and it also prevents such recordings from being used as evidence in court. The Supreme Court decision spurred the bill, which creates an exemption for children under 18 who have reason to believe that secretly recording a conversation will capture a statement regarding an unlawful sexual act or an unlawful act of physical force against a child. “Because many young victims feel isolated and alone, and are afraid of not being believed, this step forward is critical for Florida’s children to be both heard and helped,” Lauren Book, chief executive officer and founder of the victims’ advocacy group Lauren’s Kids, said in a statement after the bill was signed. The other bill (SB 160) signed Friday adds an exemption to the state’s mandatory seat-belt law for rural letter carriers “performing duties in the course of his or her employment on a designated postal route.” The state’s law requiring motorists to wear seat belts already included limited exemptions, such as for workers collecting garbage or recyclable goods. HB 7001, sponsored by Rep. Carlos Trujillo, R-Miami, and Rep. Jared Moskowitz, D-Coral Springs, will take effect July 1. SB 160, sponsored by Sen. Greg Evers, R-Baker, took effect immediately.

Supreme court sets arguments on solar initiative

Pawn Shops

Continued from cover story

The statue—which Lewis contends was likely created in part at the urging of the pawn-shop lobby—absolves pawn shops of the responsibility of properly vetting goods that may be stolen. In theory, the shop can buy and sell stolen items with impunity because the law is on their side. “They are in a no-lose situation,” Lewis told Siesta Sand. “If they buy something stolen, it’s your problem. You can come by and buy it back from them.” Lewis isn’t the only local theft victim who has encountered this statue. A Longboat Key resident who had his $2,000 racing bike stolen and recovered last year was asked to pay $100 to retrieve the bicycle from a pawn shop, according to a July, 2014 ABC 7 news article. http://www.mysuncoast.com/news/ local/florida-law-permits-pawn-shops-torequest-money-for-stolen/article_745a30ea0ebd-11e4-8653-0017a43b2370.html The Siesta Sports Rental bikes were stolen April 7 from the Avenida De Mayo rental home where the vacationers who had rented the bikes were staying. According to the Sarasota County Probable Cause Affidavit,

“Sometime in the overnight hours of 4/7/15 the bicycles went missing from the garage… the garage was left unsecured overnight.” A search of the pawn database revealed that Bennett had pawned a total of four bikes, including another bike, a Trek 3500 mountain bike, that were stolen from the garage. The bikes were sold to Gold Coast Pawn, located at 3210 Clark Road, and Presidential Pawn, located at 1616 N Washington Blvd, Sarasota. According to the arrest report, “[A deputy] located the defendant at his residence and conducted a noncustodial interview, outside in his front yard. He denied stealing the bicycles, but when confronted with the evidence, he admitted to stealing four bicycles from the open garage.”

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

The Florida Supreme Court will hear arguments Sept. 1 about whether a solar-energy ballot initiative should go before voters next year, according to an order issued. The Supreme Court, which earlier this month rejected a request to expedite the case, will review the wording of the proposed constitutional amendment and will consider what is known as a “financial impact statement.” If the court signs off, supporters of the initiative will need to submit 683,149 valid petition signatures to get the measure on the November 2016 ballot. The initiative, sponsored by a group called “Floridians for Solar Choice,” seeks to allow businesses and property owners to sell limited amounts of solargenerated power.

Exemption Approved for Body Camera Videos

Despite objections from an opengovernment group, Gov. Rick Scott signed a bill that will create a publicrecords exemption for many videos recorded by police body cameras. The bill (SB 248), sponsored by Sen. Chris Smith, D-Fort Lauderdale, will apply

to body-camera recordings taken inside places such as private residences, healthcare facilities and social-service facilities. In certain instances, the videos could be disclosed, including to people who are recorded by the body cameras. But the bill said shielding the videos from broader public release is needed because they are “more likely to capture highly sensitive personal information” than other types of police recordings or documents. “The Legislature finds that public disclosure of these recordings could have an undesirable chilling effect,’’ the bill said. “People who know they are being recorded by a body camera may be unwilling to cooperate fully with law enforcement officers if they know that a body camera recording can be made publicly available to anyone else.” But the Tallahassee-based First Amendment Foundation, which advocates for open government, asked Scott to veto the bill. (Disclosure: The News Service of Florida is a member of the foundation.) The bill takes effect July 1.

Scott signs bills on carrying guns, bolstering child protection

By Margie Menzel Gov. Rick Scott signed 44 bills into law, including a measure that will allow Floridians without concealed-weapons licenses to carry guns during mandatory emergency evacuations. He also signed bills aimed at improving the state’s child-protection and juvenile-justice systems, banning job discrimination based on pregnancy and creating tax-free savings accounts for people with disabilities. The new gun law (SB 290) went into effect as soon as Scott signed it. Backers say the measure will allow people to bring their weapons when forced to leave home because of hurricanes and other disasters. “It’s really a no-brainer,” National Rifle Association lobbyist Marion Hammer said. “When people are forced to leave their homes, they have a right to carry their possessions with them --including their firearms to protect their property.”

U.S. Sugar Spends Heavily on Lobbyists

Amid a high-stakes debate about a proposed land purchase, U.S. Sugar Corp. paid 13 lobbying firms for legislative work during the first three months of the year, according to lobbyist-compensation reports filed in May. The exact amount that the company spent on lobbying is unclear from the reports, but the total is a minimum of $190,000. The biggest chunk of money, $74,000, went to the lobbying firm Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney. Under state law, the other dozen lobbying firms only had to report their U.S. Sugar compensation in ranges, which were $1 to $9,999, $10,000 to $19,999, $20,000 to $29,999 and $40,000 to $49,999. Just using the minimum amounts paid in each range would add $116,000 to the U.S. Sugar lobbying tab during the first quarter of the year, though the actual amounts could be substantially higher. U.S. Sugar was in the middle of a debate during the regular legislative session about whether the state should carry out a 5-year-old plan to buy 46,800 acres of the company’s land for Everglades restoration efforts. The House and Senate did not move forward with the land buy, which was sought by environmental groups but opposed by U.S. Sugar.

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.

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Big Pass Dredging Then and Now

June 2015

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Expert says modeling behind pass dredging is flawed By Roger Drouin

Continued from cover story

Fast forward ahead

Now - two decades later - the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is plowing ahead with its permit application for an ambitious Lido Beach Renourishment project, which includes plans to dredge more than 6 million cubic yards of sand from the pass over 50 years. Patterson expects discussions to get more heated as the current Army Corps proposal moves ahead. Patterson would like to see the Corps’ pull back on its 50-year plan and try for a smaller, one-time project on Lido that would be closely monitored before subsequent renourishments, and more dredging of Big Pass, was pursued. “I have enormous respect for the Army Corps, but they have made mistakes in the past. And it seems like we are part of a pretty large experiment,” said Patterson, who believes a smaller, trial project to stabilize Lido’s shoreline, similar to previous renourishments might alleviate some concerns about the Army Corps’ plans.

A procedural point

In the early 1990s, the threat of a lawsuit, and then the successful execution of legal action, was the most instrumental in stopping plans to dredge the Big Pass for sand to be used in Venice. The Siesta Key Association (SKA) and its ad hoc committee raised about $250,000. “It all went to legal fees,” Duley said. The SKA hired the renowned Tallahassee firm of Holland & Knight, which in turn hired a team of coastal experts who unearthed several faults with the plan to dredge Big Pass. David Aubrey, a senior scientist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute and Robert Dolan, a professor at the University of Virginia found that the impact of dredging the shoal of Big Pass would pose an unacceptable risk to Siesta Key and the downdrift beaches. That study, conducted in 1994, showed that the ebb shoal in Big Pass was the foundation for the stability of sand formation to the south, including Siesta Key. In part, the plan by the Army Corps of Engineers to mine Big Pass for Venice lost momentum because of the researchers’ findings. The study by the scientists from Woods Hole and the University of Virginia also pointed out that the granularity of the sand on Venice did not match the sand in Big Pass. “The issue of the granular sand came about during the lawsuit because the study brought that to light,” Duley recalled. Ultimately, the FDEP reversed course on its permit for dredging because the sand source didn’t match the beach sand on Venice. But it wasn’t an environmental or sand-compatibility issue that swayed a judge. Before FDEP rescinded its permit, a procedural point convinced a judge to rule in favor of SKA in the legal petition it filed, recalled Catherine Luckner, vice president of the SKA and a member of the effort to stop the dredging in the 1990s. The case came down to “procedural” issues, Luckner said— specifically the lack of public notices sent out to those who could be impacted by the dredging. The judge ruled the project could not continue. The judge’s ruling combined with the FDEP decision halted any possibility of dredging Big Pass. “DEP came out and said they [Army Corps] had to go back on it anyway because the sand source didn’t match,” Luckner said. The ruling in 1994 could also become a reflection of forthcoming trouble for the Army Corps as it

pushes ahead its current Lido beach project. Recently, Luckner has drawn attention to missteps by the Army Corps when it comes to communication with the public. The Army Corps did not advertise its April 15 public workshop in time, and when it finally did an online link to information, the link did not work. “It is kind of hard to have a public meeting when people are not educated on what you are talking about,” Luckner said. Although Luckner is not personally advocating for legal action at this time (other Siesta advocates are, however), she believes these kind of missteps could be used once again in a legal arena or the FDEP approval process to halt the current Lido Renourishment project. Luckner also said the Army Corps should have extended the public comment period because of the improper notification, but thus far it has not done so. “These are the little things. They sound small,” Luckner said. “But because they have to do with due process, they are built into the process. It is an important part of the process.” FDEP officials noted the insufficient public notice too, telling the Army Corps in an April 15 official Request for Additional Information that the federal agency had had to advertise public notices for the public.

The sand fight in the city

While Siesta advocates were fighting the Venice project, in the city of Sarasota, commissioners debated whether to take sand from Big Pass for the renourishment of Lido. At the time, Patterson voted against taking sand from Big Pass. The then-city-commissioner felt that state funding would be at risk if the city pursued the politically contentious issue of taking sand from Big Pass. “Both Venice and the city of Sarasota planned to use Big Pass shoal,” Patterson told Siesta Sand. The county had voted to do it. And up to that time, the city had backed it as well.” In light of the SKA lawsuit and strong opposition on Siesta to the Venice project, Patterson determined that if the city went for Big Pass sand, too, there would be no way it would get the funding from the state. The entire project would be politically unfeasible. To illustrate the opposition at the time, Patterson described a “rather long and contentious” meeting when the Save our Sand group along with Jack O’Neil—who was instrumental in the movement to protect Big Pass sand—argued for the city to pull back on its plans to dredge sand from the pass. The City Commission (with Patterson) voted 4-1 against dredging Big Pass. “Ultimately we did get the [state] money later for our renourishment, and we used offshore sand, and it went fine,” Patterson told Siesta Sand. “The state funding picked up half the tab.” “At the time, the state did not have a real fund for beach renourishment, but they had some money they were willing to allocate,” Patterson added. At the county level, the “sand issue” was strong enough to propel Jack O’Neil to beat an incumbent and take a seat on the county commission. As a former chair of the Siesta Key Association, he was instrumental in the “Save our Sand” movement. But concerns about cost of incorporation killed the idea before it got to the referendum stage.

Panelists spoke to a full audience at St. Boniface Episcopal Church. Photos by Roger Drouin. When a coastal geology expert, hired by critics of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers plan to buffer Lido Key’s beaches with sand dredged from Big Pass, spoke at a meeting last month, he spent several minutes talking about the modeling used by the Army Corps. The modeling used is essentially flawed, explained Robert Young, director of the Program for the Study of Developed Shorelines at Western Carolina University. According to Young, the same exact method of modeling cited as support for the Army Corps conclusion that dredging Big Pass will have no negative, unintended consequences had been described as flawed by the very federal agency that used the model to prove it’s point, Robert Young told a full audience at St. Boniface Episcopal Church May 11. The method of modeling is called GENESIS, and it is commonly used by coastal engineers to check to see what the potential impacts of a beach project could be on nearby coastal areas. The problem is that GENESIS is not “wellsuited” to determine the impacts of coastal projects on inlets (such as Big Pass) or environments close to inlets, Young said. The Army Corps has even stated in permit applications this shortcoming of the modeling. But nonetheless the agency still uses the modeling to “add confidence to its revised plans,” Young said. Young was one of the panelists to speak at the meeting hosted by the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, Siesta Key Association, Siesta Key Village Association and the Siesta Key Cond Council. The other models used by the Army Corps are also flawed, Young told the packed community room at St. Boniface, because data entered into the models does not replicate coastal weather such as storms, which happen over time. “The project engineers cannot predict with any degree of certainty at all the impact of the proposed dredging,” Young said. Some of the models are interesting but “in my opinion,” Young said, “they cannot be used for project design.” Young’s presentation was the focal point of the meetings, which included criticism of the project from other speakers, including: Save Our Siesta Sand 2 (SOSS2) Chairman Peter van Roekens; former Sarasota County Environmental Services

Director Rob Patten; and environmental advocate and former director of the Environmental Studies department at New College Jono Miller. Laird Wreford, Coastal Resources Manager of Sarasota County presented a neutral stance. Young also referenced a 1994 study by David Aubrey, a senior scientist at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institute, and Robert Dolan, a professor at the University of Virginia. “Siesta Key’s stability and low erosion is linked to Big Pass shoals,” Young said. “The study showed the shoals play an important role in sheltering Siesta Key.” Phil Gilbert, an Illinois judge and seasonal resident on Siesta Key, spoke during the question and answer session at the May 11 meeting. Gilbert said as a judge who has worked on cases involving federal environmental agencies, he believes the best route for advocates is to continue to push for the Army Corps to conduct an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS), which is more comprehensive than the Environmental Analysis (EA) that the agency has been willing to undertake. “There are only two reasons why the Army Corps would not want to do an EIS: the time it would take; and they might not like the results of it,” Gilbert said. If advocates do take legal action, Gilbert suggested, one option is to ask a judge to order the Army Corps to conduct an EIS before any aspect of the project continues. “A federal judge cannot just tell the Corps its idea is flawed,” Gilbert said. But it is plausible that a judge would require the agency to conduct and submit an EIS to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The EPA’s descriptions of the two types of environmental studies illuminates just how different the analyses are. An Environmental Analysis is shorter: “Since the EA is a concise document, it should not contain long descriptions or detailed data which the agency may have gathered.” The Environmental Impact Statement is more involved. It “is a detailed analysis that serves to insure that the policies and goals defined in NEPA are infused into the ongoing programs and actions of the federal agency,” according to the EPA.

32 Siesta Sand

June 2015

Artist of the Month

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

By Diana Colson

|The Artistic Vision of Nadja Marks-Shafton Nadja Marks-Shafton is a talented and prolific artist. She works internationally, and will be exhibiting her most recent collection this June in Sarasota. Nadja was born on the coast of Massachusetts in a quaint fishing village just south of Boston. Her South African mother’s work allowed the family to travel for three months at a time while her father homeschooled Nadja and her younger sister. Their family always chose the “road less traveled” which made for interesting stories and extraordinary journeys. One can quickly detect the influence of these childhood expeditions which are brought to life in her vibrant paintings. Together, the family explored wonders of the world such as the Great Barrier Reef, Victoria Falls and the Mayan ruins. They visited African wild game parks and drove a caravan across the islands of New Zealand. It was a time of splendid adventure, one that established a pattern of living that Nadja would continue as an adult. One of her earliest artistic mentors was her grandfather, a brilliant photographer and writer whose pictures can be seen today at www.photoimagesgallery.com. Nadja’s mother also provided her with creative inspiration. This remarkable woman has enjoyed a multi-faceted career as a lecturer, author, radio/ TV host, screenwriter, and film producer/director. She is currently working on a feature film, which can be previewed at www.MindTheGapFilm.com. Nadja’s family moved to Florida during her second year of high school, around the time she began painting. “I was a difficult teenager so my mom tried to take me to meditations with her. When that didn’t help, she took me to art class and encouraged me to paint what I was feeling. I immediately loved the texture of the paint, and I loved the freedom of dragging colors across a canvas.” Nadja enrolled in the rigorous IB program at Riverview High School, and graduated with a full year of college credit. She entertained the idea of entering the film program at FSU, but the field of painting was calling her. Her art career was well underway by the time she was accepted into the highly competitive BFA program at Florida State University. Looking back, Nadja says, “Even though I was working on technical skill, I still didn’t know what to paint. I was overwhelmed with the big question of, what to communicate?!” She tried emulating old masters and painting still-lifes ... but something was missing: “My own voice!”

I see them without my own barriers and ego. When people tell me they like my work, I usually say, ‘Thanks, I do too’ because I feel like they are gifts given to me. Sometimes I experience a rush of visuals and I have to quickly get to my studio before I lose them. If someone stops me on the way, I’m thinking, ‘I can’t speak now, these paintings are about to be born!’ Maybe I’m a

“One day my professor looked me in the eyes and said, ‘The world is not waiting for the next Monet or Picasso, the world is waiting for the next Nadja.’ That’s when I realized that I count. And that’s when everything really started to change.” Nadja supported herself through college by face and body painting for BJ’s Party House, a children’s entertainment company. Her fine arts degree really helped hone that skill. Today—when she’s not working on a new oil painting— she’s competing and working internationally in the Face & Body Art industry. She has won awards both in Fine Art as well as Body Art. After graduating from FSU Summa Cum Laude, Nadja concentrated on painting for a year before embarking on a 3-year painting odyssey through Israel and Southern Africa. She arrived in Jerusalem in 2012 with no preconceived idea as to subject matter, but was greatly moved by the mysticism she discovered in that historic land. She experimented with mixed media - watercolor, ink, oil pastel, chalk pastel, acrylic, gouache, and gold leaf. In 2013, she spent three months traveling in South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe. Her paintings from this period reflect the passionate yet grounded rhythm of her experience. In Africa, she became a quickmoving artist who learned to paint on the go, using only three wooden frames, one roll of canvas, a staple gun, and as much paint as she could carry. By 2014, she had painted over 70 new works. These were available at exhibitions in Israel, including one at the Western Wall in the Old City of Jerusalem. “I’m often re-discovering what art is. For me, it’s the way that I get to see aspects of my soul and learn what my relationship is with this world. Visions flow into my mind, and I try to record them exactly as

midwife bringing hope and light into the world expressed through color.’” Nadja now paints part of the year in Israel and part of the year in Sarasota, teaching and inspiring others to paint. “I encourage people to communicate their inner language. I try to teach them how to unclog their vessel and experience their real selves. Sometimes we need a reminder that there’s still pureness left in this world, and that it exists in every one of us! Lately I’ve been really drawn to painting portraits because, I love exploring the depth behind the wrinkles in one’s smile and the wisdom in their eyes. I see people as warriors because deep down, they’re defending something so pure.” Nadja’s exhibition will be an outdoor garden show on Sunday June 21, between the hours of 2-8 PM at 3915 75th Drive East, Sarasota 34243. For an updated schedule of all the featured events that will be going on during the day, as well as all Nadja’s inspired paintings, please visit www.NadjaMarks-Shafton.com . Treat yourself to a wonderful day, celebrating the spirit of art, music & film. Nadja has decided to offer to paint 7 original oil on canvas portraits at the discounted rate of $1,000 to Sarasota residents. A percentage will go toward the crowd funding campaign for her mom’s feature film. If you are interested, or have questions concerning the art exhibit, contact Nadja at 781-266-8483.

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Arts on the Horizon School is finally out and it’s family time! Are you ready for some summer fun? Take a look at this month’s events and explore all the exciting, entertainment Sarasota has to offer! • The Sarasota Music Festival – June never sounded so good! For 3 weeks, internationally recognized artists & students come together to study & perform chamber music. The Festival has a reputation as being one of the finest, classical music events in the nation. You’ll enjoy listening to upcoming young musicians, from around the world! • June 1 to June 20 – 3 weeks of brilliant performances to choose from with over 40 international musicians and 60 gifted students, chosen from nearly 500 applicants worldwide… Performances will be held at the Sarasota Opera House and Holley Hall at the Beatrice Friedman Symphony Center. http://www. sarasotaorchestra.org/festival/about • June 4, 11, 18 - Thursday Artist Showcases Acclaimed faculty artists perform captivating pieces, in the intimacy of Holley Hall each Thursday at 4:30 pm. (Purchase wine along with complimentary hors d’oeuvres beginning at 3:30) • June 5, 12, 19 - Friday Festivals The best students perform chamber masterworks each Friday, at 8pm., during the Sarasota Music Festival. • June 7, 12, 21 - Saturday Symphonies Symphony concerts highlighting the student orchestra and concerto performances by faculty artists and first-rate students every Saturday, at 8:00 pm. • June 7, 14, 19 - Student Recitals Intimate performances by student ensembles.

June 2015

By Jaye Clements enjoy the galleries! There is live entertainment along the street and some of the shops offer refreshments. June 5, 6 to 9pm - Music on Main in LWR. Live music, entertainment. Beer & Wine available. http://www. lakewoodranch.com/musiconmain • June 5, 6 to 9pm - Downtown Sarasota at 5 Points Park - Live entertainment and performances. June 6, 10am to 1pm World Oceans Day at Mote Marine. https://mote.org/events/details/worldoceans-day-family-festival1 • June 12, 26 7 to 9pm – Free Friday night concert, in Venice with 5/12 Taylor & Larry and 5/26 Mindy Simmons & The Hot Pockets at the Gazebo in Centennial park! http://www.venicemainstreet.com/index.php/ what-to-do/event-calendar • June 20 10am to 6pm - 23rd Annual Venice Craft Festival – Miami Ave. http://www.venicemainstreet.com/index.php/ what-to-do/event-calendar • June 6 10 to 6 – Dakin Dairy Farm Fest $20, includes the activities including craft table and is geared toward children & families – music by Southern Pride. http://www.dakindairyfarms.com/ • June 12 to June 14 - Skyway Film Festival – Bradenton’s celebration of the arts & films. http://skywayfilmfestival.org/ • June 13, 14 – 10am to 4pm. St. Armand’s Craft Festival ~ St. Armand’s Circle http://artfestival. com/Festivals/St_Armands_Circle_Craft_Festival_ Sarasota_Florida_June.ASPX

• Master Classes - Students participate in a variety of master classes, taught by world renowned faculty. The classes offer advanced students an opportunity to learn from experts, in a small group. Classes are open to the public. You will experience how faculty train the next generation of orchestra musicians. http:// www.sarasotaorchestra.org/festival/concerts/ master-classes • Festival Lectures - Artistic Director Robert Levin and Conductor Nicholas McGegan provides musical insights and a unique perspective during these popular and entertaining festival lectures. For more information: http://www. sarasotaorchestra.org/festival • June 1 to June 14 – The 10th Annual Savor Sarasota Restaurant week… Area restaurants participate in offering superb culinary options! Lunch at $15 & three course dinner $29. http://www. savorsarasota.com/ Who’s cooking? Award winning chefs from our community! http://www.savorsarasota.com/whoscooking Participating award winning restaurants: http:// www.savorsarasota.com/whats-cooking Learn more about some of the venues: http:// www.savorsarasota.com/stories

• June 16 to Aug 1 – Summer Circus Spectacular, at the Historic Asolo Theatre. Performances will be held Tuesday through Friday 11am & 2pm and Saturdays at 2pm & 5pm. http://www.ringling.org/events/ summer-circus-spectacular • June 19 – 6 to 10pm - 3rd Friday Art Walks, all year long at Towles Court http://www.towlescourt. com/index.htm • June 20 – Paddleboard Championship races on SK beach, including entertainment, music food and fun! http://www.sarasotasupseries.com/ • June 21, 22, 10am to 5pm. Venice Craft Festival, downtown Venice on Miami Ave.

• June 3 at 2pm & 8pm – at the Asolo - Woody Sez: The Life and Music of Woody Guthrie, in the Mertz Theatre. http://tickets.asolorep.org/single/PSDetail. aspx?psn=628

• June 3 to 21 – Inspired Lunacy – A comical musical, at Florida Studio Theatre – Gompertz Theatre https://www.floridastudiotheatre.org/inspiredlunacy • June 4, 6:30 to 9pm – 1St Friday Art Walk – S. Palm Ave. The 1st Friday of every month, merchants on Palm stay open late and welcome art enthusiasts to

• June 27 to July 5 - Sarasota Powerboat Grand Prix Festival - offshore racing! Proceeds benefit Suncoast Charities for Children. http://www. suncoastoffshore.org/

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Vacation

Dentistry! It’s our Summer Season which seems to last from May 15th to October 15th and it’s a good time to head out on trips and vacations or try to escape the heat. Many things have to be considered and plans have to be made but most of us don’t consider that minor aches and bothers can become major problems while away from home, especially on cruises and when out of the USA. Make sure those little tooth things you’ve ignored or dealt with are taken care of before you leave. If you have a spare denture - take it. Consult with your dentists for their opinion of what can wait and what shouldn’t. If you have any questions or comments, please don’t wait until the last moment. Let’s work toward a truly happy and healthy vacation season. It’s up to you!

Palmer Ranch Dental 8800 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34238

941-966-5603

34 Siesta Sand

Off Islands

June 2015

By Rodger Skidmore

If you cut sea grape trees do they cry salty tears?

People laughed when Sarah Palin said she could see Russia from her house. Well, if she lived on Little Diomede Island, Alaska she would be able to see Russia (Big Diomede Island - part of the Chukogke Autonomous Okrug, Russia) as it is only 2.4 miles away. And she would be able to see Russia 24 hours each day in summer as there is always daylight in the Arctic in July. How does that relate to us? Simple, it seems that the legislators in Tallahassee think they can see all the way down to the Sleepy Lagoon Beach Access on Longboat Key, and everywhere else in Southwest Florida, from their chambers. In years past, if someone cut down mangrove or sea grape trees, Sarasota or Manatee County would step in, find the culprit and fine them. But because the senators and representatives of our fair state have voted to take on that responsibility (but did not vote for the funds to enforce those rules) people can cut down those trees whenever they choose. Normally developers or those that have their homes directly on the water do the cutting to enhance their property. However the sea grape trees on Longboat Key that have been repeatedly cut down are on public rather than private property. So, who did it? Either someone who lives on the other side of Gulf of Mexico Drive that wants a better view or perhaps the Caped Agriculturist with his superpower to shear through the toughest stem. Or just maybe someone who does not think sea grapes are very attractive and would like the town to plant something else there - especially since they’ve whacked the sea grape trees. This is not a victimless crime as, with no trees along dunes, sand will not hold and erosion may occur. Also, potentially, there are very direct victims (other than taxpayers). In nesting season sea grape trees block light from houses which might disorient turtle hatchlings and head them in the wrong direction to their death. Longboat Key Public Works, Department Parks and Recreation Manager Mark Richardson reported that over 20 trees were cut earlier this year. And, of course, the perpetrator(s) knew they were doing wrong as they covered up the stumps with branches so the crime would not be immediately apparent. Police Chief Pete Cumming and Town Manager Dave Bullock are in agreement that the trees were cut down on purpose. Surely they would love to have someone give them an anonymous call to let them know what you know about the situation.

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Nearly 100 More Teams Compete In This Year’s “Dig The Beach” Pro Volleyball Tournament Photos by Trebor Britt

Savannah Davis (20) of Deerfield Beach and Aren Cupp (20) of Holt, Michigan watching friends in the men’s doubles action on Court 1 at the 2015 Dig the Beach Volleyball Tournament on fabulous Siesta Beach. They play volleyball for Florida International University.

Home is where your heart is....

.... and the Linley Street Boat Ramp on Sarasota Bay is where your boat is. Or has been, for various residents of the Village of Longboat Key for over the last 20 years. Longer, one would hazard a guess, than any individual resident has lived in that area. There is a great play that has been performed a number of times at the Florida Studio Theatre, I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change. That seems to be an approach that some take, not just to a man or woman they meet, but also to houses they buy. See a charming neighborhood, move in and then ask for changes. Recently a village resident who just might live near Linley Street has submitted a partition to Town Manager Dave Bullock requesting that boats on town property just south of the boat ramp have created a parking problem and are not attractive. He would like the area returned to its natural beauty. Since no one alive in that area today remembers what it looked like over 20 years ago, what it looked like then might be mere conjecture. One could suppose, of course, that Indians, back in the day, put their canoes there when not out on the bay fishing. If that were the case the village should pass an historic ordinance stating that a minimum of 15 kayaks and dinghies be placed there at all times. Perhaps that ordinance is what Mayor Jack Duncan is drafting while waiting for the proper time to address the issue after having received an email from another villager, Fred Kagi. In that communication Mr. Kagi questioned the redundancy of a number of the signatures on the partition and whether or not others were those of actual residents. Kagi felt the kayaks added to the ambiance of the Village and probably also thought that having boats near a boat ramp added a bit of authenticity. Viewing an image on Google map, it does not look as laid back as Key West, but that might be just as well.

Callie Longo (16), Kenzie Leonard (13), Malia Leonard (12), Teya Leonard (15), all of Ft. Meyers chillin on the dazzling coastline of Siesta Beach. Cousins, Callie and Teya are paired in the Junior “Dig the Beach” Volleyball Tournament.

Leonardo Lunardi (32) from Italy now living in Sarasota, leaping nearly 3 feet high above the sand to serve during their Open/Pro (Professional Level) division match. He and his brother Bruno (31) were seeded 8th and have been playing as a team for 10 years.

If NIMBY doesn’t work, try NITBY

Don’t like people partying on your block? Have your city change its rules and regulations so that it can’t be done. The preceding is a good example of NIMBY - Not In My Back Yard. But what if the people a block away are having parties too. Simple, apply the NITBY rule - Not In Their Back Yard. NITBY is the rule the St. Armands Circle Association is now trying to apply. A while back they decided that having too many festivals during the Season brings in too many people who don’t have buying from St. Armands shops as their prime goal in life. Thus they have gotten the City of Sarasota to ban more than a certain number of festivals on St. Armands Key during Season. The Association has recently learned that two art festivals have been scheduled to be held on Lido Key next year, one in February and one in April. As these events would increase the traffic passing through the Circle, the Association is contemplating what actions could be taken to stop another key from having its own festivals. The outcome of this key dispute may depend on whose ear the Association is whispering into. Maybe we shouldn’t tell them that Longboat Key may be having a festival of its own.

Diogo Sousa (red and black shorts) of Deerfield Beach Florida attempting to spike the ball past his opponent as his partner watches in a Men’s Open/Pro (Professional Level) division match.

Melanie Martin of Orlando, setting up her partner for a spike at this years “Dig the Beach” Volleyball Tournament on the fluffy sands of incredible Siesta Beach.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

June 2015

Snapshots of Island Visitors

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

Wake & Shake

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:

Gina Belz stands in front of the popular wall many have to touch to complete their Siesta beach walk. A frequent traveler, Gina said this is the softest sand she has ever stepped on and will be back again in November. Photo by Donnarose Melvin.

Diane, Ross and John from Burlington Ontario Canada. They’ve been coming here for vacation every year for the past 20 years. Photo by Donnarose Melvin.

941.356.0295 www.iansalon.com

Soulfully Yours Donnarose

Q: Dear Donnarose, I know I have the “gift” of clairvoyance, and can see, feel and hear spirits. I am finally ready to start doing intuitive readings. Any suggestions on how to get started? ~Thank you, Chrissy A: ~ “Practice builds confidence after each client you read. And with consistent Divine assistance, your clients will get what they need.” ~Donnarose Melvin Well, to start, there is all kinds of advice on the internet, and always a great idea to browse through the links. For me, I like to keep things simple. Get business cards made up, and practice, practice, practice doing readings for friends, relatives, etc. This will greatly boost your confidence. Setting up a website, or other links like Facebook, etc., will help as well. It looks like you already can channel well, so it’s a matter of becoming proficient with your delivery of messages from Spirit during your readings. Feel free to contact me at email address listed in bio, as I also mentor my clients on how to give readings using cards, as well as no tools at all. You will also do the same one day. Also, Doreen Virtue has excellent videos I recommend you view on how to start your business, and to read with cards of all types. Go to Siestasand.net to click below links from this column: - Start and grow your spiritually based business: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vhdbq6UFXUU. - One card reading -with Doreen and Radleigh Valentine: http://www.cacrcourse.com/ video1?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=email_ program_virtue_cacr&utm_source=9988985&utm_ id=6115PR&utm_content=6115PR - Three card reading -with Doreen and Radleigh Valentine: http://www.cacrcourse.com/ video2?utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=email_ program_virtue_cacr&utm_source=9988985&utm_ id=6115PR&utm_content=6115PR - Tips on Card Readings for Others & Starting a Business with Doreen and Radleigh Valentine: http://www. cacrcourse.com/video3?utm_medium=email&utm_ campaign=email_program_virtue_cacr&utm_ source=9988985&utm_id=6115PR&utm_ content=6115PR It’s wonderful to see yet another light worker come on board to help others. The above links will give you all you need to get started. ~ ♥

Q: Dear Donnarose, I lost the love of my life Brandon 5 years ago. I now have a boyfriend and he’s very nice. But I’ve never been able to really open my heart completely. How can I get myself to fully love again? Regards, Jacqueline A: ~ “When you desire love, but something is blocking your way, ask Spirit to permanently remove it, and love will be here to stay.” ~Donnarose Melvin I’m sorry for your loss Jacqueline. Symbolically, see if you can visualize a big boulder blocking the front door of your house. Consider this to be the main entrance to your heart. Through this front door is where love could flow abundantly with the greatest ease, giving you consistent joy. Again, symbolically, even though the boulder is there, some food can still be delivered to the tiny side windows, and your current boyfriend can talk to you through these windows as well. So you can still be nourished but in much smaller doses. And as a result, you may start to feel depleted, since you’re not fully getting your recommended daily allowance of nourishment, so to speak. To fully love again, what is needed, is to remove the big boulder from your front door (your heart). You have the tools within you to do this. The main tool is forgiveness. Ask Spirit to help you forgive Brandon for abandoning you (even though of course he didn’t mean to), and for not being there when you needed him to be. Equally critical is to forgive yourself for any self-blame. Then include visualizing the hand of Spirit (or God, Angels, etc.) assisting with pushing that big boulder away from your front door (your heart). And when you do, you will begin to feel free. That is, free to fully give and receive love, once again. ~ ♥ Donnarose Melvin is a professional psychic, medium and energy healer, whose pleasure it 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

www.floridamariner.com

Recreational Vehicles are Fun!

MarinerWord SearchSEARCH WORD WORD LIST WORD LIST:

Amenities Awning Barbecue WORD LIST Beachfront Amenities Big rig Awning Bocce ball Barbecue Boondocking Cable television Beachfront Campground Big rig Caravan Bocce ball Carefree Boondocking Clubhouse Cable television Comforts of home Campground Fishing Caravan Fulltimers Hookup Carefree Horseshoes Clubhouse Icemaker Comforts of home Laid back Fishing Lazy days Fulltimers Luxurious Hookup Picnic table Horseshoes RV resort Icemaker Shuffleboard Slide Laidout back Swimming Lazy days pool Toy hauler Luxurious Traveling

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Recreational Vehicles are Fun!

What’s Happening WEEKLY BEACH CLASSES: • 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.ContactKathy 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 instrument and enjoy the spectacular Siesta sunset. • WEEKLY FARMER’S MARKET - Every Sunday from 8am – 1pm in Davidson’s Plaza in the Village. 5124 Ocean Blvd. Produce, Plants & Flowers, Music, Art, Organic Skincare and Prepared Foods. Listen to live music while you shop. On The Beach… • KIDS SUMMER BEACH RUNS, JUNE 9 – AUG. 11 (TUES), 6:30PM: This is a one-mile fun run for kids of all ages. Weekly registration held at 5:30 p.m. with race time at 6:30 p.m. Registration is on-site. All participants receive a ribbon and a popsicle. Free T-shirts are earned after 4 runs are completed. There is a one-time, $1 registration fee. Contact County for additonal info: 941-861-5000 • SURFIT SUMMER CAMP, JUN. 1-5, 8-12, 15-19, 9AM-12:30PM: SURFit summer camps are week long (Mon-Fri) day camps that will transform your child into skilled water athletes. SURFit incorporates the stand-up paddleboard, surfing, ocean swimming, ocean safety and marine biology into the lesson every day. Classes are lead by certified lifeguards. Contact 941-952-8245 or info@surfitusa.com for more info. Surfitusa.com • BEACH VOLLEYBALL CAMP, JUN.8-11, 8:30AM-NOON AGES 8-15: Open to players of all ability levels. Master the fundamentals, develop proper mechanics and gain game play experience. Every aspect of the game is covered. Registration fees apply. Contact: 941-861-7275 or scgovnet to register or for more info. • SAND SCULPTING CAMP, JUN. 8-11, 9AM-NOON, AGES 7-14: Amaze your family and friends with the sand-sculpture skills and

techniques you’ll learn from a master sand sculptor. Fee includes sandsculpting tools you will be able to keep. Bring plenty of water, a hat and sunscreen. Registration fees apply. Contact: 941-861-7275 for more info. • JR. LIFEGUARD CAMP, JUN. 22-26, 8:30AM -12:30PM, AGES 9-17: Program offers hands-on learning experiences and characterbuilding activities while having fun. All potential campers must attend a 30-minute try-out session. Registration fees apply. Contact: 941-861-7275 for more info. • FL. BEACH VOLLEYBALL TOURNATMENT, JUN. 13-14, 8AM: 4-divisions: Open, Adult, Jrs, Co-ed. Starting May 2-3 juniors will be qualifying for the AAU Junior Olympics. AVPNext will offer more than 40 competitions in 25 cities nationwide between March and August. Players who participate in AVPNext events have an opportunity to earn professional points and a national ranking from the top domestic Tour. Go to: www. flbeachvolleyball.com to register. • GREAT FATHER’S DAY RACE, JUN.14, 8AM: The Great Father’s Day Race is a 5K run/walk that the whole family can do together to create a unique, and lasting, family memory. The event is familyfriendly and focuses on health and wellness, plus competition. We want families and friends to get off the couch, get moving, and create exciting memories of fun and adventure! For more info go to: www.greatfathersdayrace.com • 3RD ANNUAL SUP SARASOTA RACE, JUN. 20, 8AM – 3PM: Free to public. Live music and vendors. First in a series comprised of three Stand Up Paddleboard races. Divisions for distance and sprint races. Registration fees apply. Contact: Rob Alfieri at 941-704-4878 or go to web: www.sarasotasupchampionship.com • SIESTA BEACH OLYMPIC AND SPRINT TRIATHOLON, JUN. 27, 7AM: MultiRace creates innovative, challenging and exciting triathlon, duathlon and running events that empower racers to achieve their personal best. Established in 2002, MultiRace is the largest multiple-sport event management company in the State of Florida managing more than 30 endurance events scheduled for 2014. - See more at: http://multirace. us/company_overview#sthash. oXLHtbOm.dpuf three 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.

36 Siesta Sand

June 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Places of Worship

Island Churches:

• 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

Answers to the WORD SEARCH

MarinerWord Search on page 35www.floridamariner.com • The Superior Word from Answers Rev. Charlie Garrett Page 24 Service starts Sunday mornings at 10am. Bring a friend and share in Recreational God’s word. 6512 Superior Avenue Vehicles Sarasota, Floridaare 34242 Fun • 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

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ExEcutivE Shirt SErvicE • houSEhold itEmS • SamE day SErvicE availablE

Premium Estate Liquidators

Olde Fashion Barber Shop

Tapers • Flattops • Fades • Styling • Razor Cuts ther” 941-312-6001 “Hot La South Gate Barber Shop

Experienced volunteers conducting superior estate sales to benefit YMCA programs for disadvantaged youth. Since 2000, we’ve offered estate and household sales services to individuals and professionals in our community.

To learn more about consigning or donating items please contact us at

(941) 951-1336

YMCA Foundation of Sarasota, Inc.

(Across from Southgate Mall)

2081 Siesta Drive, Sarasota, FL 34239

Walk-Ins Welcome

941-896-6400

Monday-Friday 9 AM-6 PM; Saturday 9 AM-4PM

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www.SouthgateBarbers.com

Encouraging thoughtful philanthropy since 1981.

HOUSE WATCH SERVICES, LLC

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Licensed and Insured Affordable and Dependable Service Solutions For Your Home While You Are Away

ACE/NASM Certified Personal Trainer TRX Certified Group Suspension Instructor Family Practitioners • Pediatrics-Geratrics • Urgent Care

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Call or e-mail for quotes and references sarasotabruce1@comcast.net Serving SaraSota and Surrounding areaS Since 1979

(941) 955-1864

Pierre Nedelcovych, M.D. FAAFP FAAUCM

US 41 Office 941-927-1234 • Siesta Key Office 941-312-6708 www.sarasotamedcenter.com info@sarasotamedcenter.com

WATERTITE

ROOFING & & REPAIRS REPAIRS ROOFING Quality Work Since 1974

Steve Bradley Project Manager

208 S. Tamiami Trail Nokomis, FL 34275

(941) 483-4630 FAX (941) 488-3140 WatertiteRoofing.com WatcoFL@aol.com

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www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

June 2015

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

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

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, 941-349-5500 • Robasota Real Estate – Annual and Seasonal Rentals, 941-9261800, ext. 102

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 – Ecofriendly Pedicabs. Siesta Key Tours and rides – tips only, 941343-3400 • Unique Car Transportation provides efficient and reliable airport town car service with an established sophisticated network of communications, concierges and town car vehicles designed to make air travel as simple, reliable and comfortable as possible. Their airport concierge team will handle travel details. Call 813927-5045 for details or see website: www.uniquecartransportation. com

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 866-279-4390, 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

SERVICES

SIESTA KEY AND SARASOTA REALTORS • 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

Here’s My Card 941-928-9200

RIDE THE KEY FREE

15-20 MINUTE RESPONSE TIME (Based upon traffic)

SERVICING

Siesta Key Beach Siesta Village Turtle Beach

DRIVER TIPS ONLY

Restaurants and Accommodations Operating 10AM to 2AM Daily

www.JonnysOriginalFreeRide.com

SERVICES

• 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 SIESTA KEY AND SARASOTA REAL ESTATE • Siesta Key Realty-Property Management, Vacation Rentals – 1, 2, 3 bedrooms. Serving Siesta Key since 1992. siestakeyrealtyrentals. com 941-349-8900. Gemme Wonn. SPORT RENTALS: • Robin Hood Rentals – for all your Siesta Key rental needs with a wide variety segways, bikes, 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. 941-346-0891 • 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

a minute

SERVICES

Mon.-Thurs. 1½ Hrs. $100 3 Hrs. $200 6 Hrs. $400

SERVICES

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. See our website: www.CBsOutfitters.com or stop in their store for additional info. 1240 Stickney Point Rd, Siesta Key. (941)349-4400 HOME IMPROVEMENT • Hawk’s Nest Construction Inc. is a certified Class A general contractor licensed in all phases of construction. Owner Mark Hawkins Sr. personally oversees every aspect of your project from start to finish, using only the best and most reliable licensed artisans

LaSer, Botox

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.

Friend Us at: Eddie ThreeSixtyOne Limo

Hair and naiL diSorderS J Morgan Nathanial Swartz, O’Donoghue, MD. PA-C

1952 Field Road Sarasota, Florida 34231

(Corner of US 41 & Field Rd.)

Amy Fenenga PA-C

T: 941.926.SKIN F: 941.926.8811 www.dermatologyexperts.com

L.L. Armstrong, LLC a painting company

Daniel 941-323-5074

• Custom Painters • Removal of Wall Covering armstrongllee5@aol.com

TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-349-0194

LIMOUSINE

CUSTOM BAMBOO DESIGNS

Skin CanCer

SERVICES

and craftsmen. His passion is delighting his clients, turning their home-improvement dreams into a beautiful reality. Call 941650-9499 or visit their website: www.hawksnestconstruction. com. • 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 is a State Certified General Contractor specializing in glass porch enclosures and window replacement. They offer only top quality products installed by professionally trained technicians. All projects are engineered and permitted to meet the new state building codes related to impact, water infiltration and high velocity windload calculations. Their services include window repair, new custom screens, glass cut to size, and hard to find window parts inventory at both locations. Fully insured and their work is guaranteed. 941-9211113, www.wilson-window.com.

UNIQUE WATER FEATURES

941 525 7762 SICANBAMBOO.COM

SICANBAMBOOINC@YAHOO.COM

Psychic Medium Readings with

Donnarose

941.735.5173

SoulfullyYoursDonnarose

Healing the Heart ~ Reconnecting to the Soul

Alain’s Gutter Cleaning Where Quality Comes First • PRESSURE CLEANING • Clean Glass Windows & Doors • 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

941.927.4646

Elly’s Massage & Facials of Sarasota

Elly’s Elegant Spa 4400 S. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota,FL 34231 (South of Trader Joe’s on the right)

ellyspa15@gmail.com www.ellysmassageandfacials.com

Massages or Facials $

38 Siesta Sand

June 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Accommodations Locator Map

ÂŠ Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

June 2015

Snapshots of Island Visitors

Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography 2

1: Bianca, Isabella age 5, Alana age 1, Amanda, Sebastian age 3, Blanca, from Sarasota. 2: Emily age 8 and Eva age 4. 3: Brooke, Bonnie and Jeff from Sarasota. 4: Tabytha, Makenna from Bradenton. 5: Anthony, Codey from Sarasota. 6: The Perkins Family from Orlando.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

40 Siesta Sand

June 2015

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Island Girl

By Trebor Britt

This months Island Girl is Taylor, from Minnesota now living in Bradenton. Like most young people today, Taylor has a packed schedule. Besides being an Architect and Design student and an outstanding volleyball athlete at State College of Florida, she also tends bar on Anna Maria Island. She visits incredible Siesta Beach almost every week and especially enjoys â&#x20AC;&#x153;daâ&#x20AC;? the volleyball nets.

Taylor

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)