IV Siesta Sand - Mar 2016

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MARCH 2016 | 941.349.0194 | ISLAND VISITOR PUBLISHING, LLC | www.SiestaSand.net | COMPLIMENTARY

Turtle Beach Park to get upgrades

BIG PASS DREDGING

By Roger Drouin

Date scheduled for Atkins to present to county commissioners

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VILLAGE PARKING UPDATE Siesta Village property owners may balk at expense of new parking plan

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CB’S SALTWATER OUTFITTERS

CB’s Outfitters serves Siesta Key

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REAL ESTATE AGENT PROFILE

Tucked away on the south end of the Key and known as a local favorite, the park at Turtle Beach will be getting upgrades soon as part of a $601,000 Sarasota County improvement project.

The improvement project includes expanded parking, new sidewalks and crosswalks, a relocated and improved children’s playground, fresh landscaping, a kayak launch, and an expansive rain garden with native plants.

Construction work on the improvements at Turtle Beach Park is expected to begin sometime in April, after the County Commission approves the construction contract with a vendor, Brie Ondercin, project manager from the county’s Parks, Recreation and Natural Resources department, told Siesta Sand.

Sidewalks will be installed throughout Turtle Beach Park. Currently “there is not a single sidewalk,” Ondercin said.

New pedestrian crossings within the park will also enable beachgoers to safely cross both Turtle Beach Road and Blind Pass Road as they try to get to and from the beach. The new sidewalks will be installed throughout the park and

lead all the way to the boat launch.

The current children’s playground will be relocated closer to the beach, where a new playground will be located, featuring a larger play structure. “It will be enclosed to keep children safe because it is close to [an existing] parking lot,” Ondercin said. The old playground was designed for children aged two to five, but the new playground will serve children ages two to 12.

“The primary goal [of the improvement project] is to provide more parking for visitors and also to make it a safer, more walkable park so people can get from one side of the park to the other without having to walk along the road shoulder,” Ondercin said.

The Turtle Beach park concept plan has been in the works since 2007, but plans were put on hold when the recession hit due to a decrease in surtax funding. “It was put on hold until additional funding could be identified,” Ondercin said.

The park is 16 acres with 959.25 linear yards (or 0.5 miles) of beach and Gulf of Mexico frontage.

Continued on page 18

These images show completed rain gardens built elsewhere

Siesta Isles’ appeal over tree removal leads to ordinance and procedural changes |The same day the County Commission approves the measures, it also awards the neighborhood group another $10,000 through the Neighborhood Grant Program

By Rachel Brown Hackney - SarasotaNewsLeader.com

Meet Dan Miller realtor at Re/Max Tropical Sands

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SAND CASTLES

Gulf & Bay Club: a grand property with a page grand view

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BARTENDER OF THE MONTH

The Sarasota County Commission has amended its Tree Ordinance to prevent a recipient of any county Neighborhood Grant Initiative Program award from being stopped in its tracks in beautification efforts.

Moreover, the board has asked for a full staff investigation into how the Tree Ordinance might be modified to enable individuals or groups to plant new trees when that will result in improvements over the existing conditions.

The board’s recent action pleased Siesta Isles Association President Tony Romanus, he stated in a Jan. 26 telephone interview. “That’s good to hear. They moved quickly on this,” he said.

The votes were a direct result of an appeal by the Siesta Isles Association over county staff’s

halting its work — funded by a Neighborhood Grant Initiative Program award — to replace mostly invasive tree species at two neighborhood entrances in an effort to beautify the roadways.

Commissioners chastised staff after siding with the association on Dec. 8, 2015.

And the Jan. 26 board action came none too soon, Romanus noted, as his organization that very day won another Neighborhood Grant Program award of $10,000 for the second phase of its beautification project: an “interesting coincidence on the timing,” as Romanus put it.

During the appeal hearing on Dec. 8, 2015, Romanus pointed out that all the Siesta Isles Association wanted to do was take out eight existing trees and replace them with 10 new ones.

New royal palms stand in the median right of way of the Siesta Isles entry on Shadow Lawn Way. Sarasota News Leader photo

However, a day after the work began, county staff stopped it,

Romanus told the board.

LOCAL MAPS & INFORMATION

Continued on page 38

See Page 21

Spring has Sprung at Abel’s Ice Cream Shop

Meet Gina from Siesta Key Oyster Bar (SKOB)

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The new season brings plenty of opportunities (and flavors) to celebrate.

Spring Break! Whether you’re planning some down time, or just wish you were, Abel’s Ice Cream is ready for fun in the sun and beach time with some tropical flavors.

Enjoy ushering in the annual pause with Coconut Almond Fudge (coconut ice cream with fudge ribbon & whole roasted almonds) and lactose-free Non-Dairy Mango Sorbet (light and fresh-bring out the islander in you!).

And remember, we’re all Irish on St. Patrick’s Day. Erin Go Bragh. Wear your green and join them for some fantastic nods to the home country with good oldfashioned Chocolate Mint (refreshing mint ice cream with large rich chocolate chips) or

delectable Pistachio (the ultimate pistachio ice cream loaded with roasted pistachiosperfection).

Of course, for sports lovers, it’s March Madness, Baby!

Abel’s Ice Cream is here to help celebrate the Big Dance with their own Final Four of best-sellers: Stellar Coffee Ice Cream (a coffee lover’s dream, rich coffee ice cream with delicious fudge & mini dark chocolate coffee cups), Salty Caramel Peanut (salty caramel ice cream with a salty caramel ribbon and salty roasted peanuts-addictive!), specialty award

winning Spumoni (always a crowd pleaser-swirled pistachio, chocolate & cherry ice cream with roasted almonds and a special blend of tropical fruits), and Captain’s Chocolate Ice Cream (smooth, triple rich award winning chocolate ice cream). Stop by and try them all, and let them know which one you think should be crowned Champion.

Abel’s Ice Cream is located at 1886 Stickney Point Road, 921-5700. Or check out their ice cream variety online at www.abelsicecream.com

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Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

162 Beach Road update

and Kids Stuff

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SNL at the end of January that he has been talking with Sarasota County staff about options for the future of the property at 162 Beach Road, owned by his clients Ronald and Sania Allen of Osprey.

Those discussions have not reached the stage of crafting a proposal for the County Commission to consider, he added. “We’re hoping to get there, but we’re not there yet.”

In October 2015, the County Commission voted unanimously for the third time to turn down a request by the Allens to build a house on the property.

Photographic documentation has shown the site was underwater in past decades, and all of the couple’s construction would have been seaward of the county’s Gulf Beach Setback Line, which is designed to control development in sensitive environmental areas.

Even before the County Commission voted on Oct. 14, 2015 to deny the Allens’ latest petition for a coastal setback variance — which was crafted after months-long mediation involving county staff — Merrill had cautioned that if the board did not allow the couple to erect a house on the site, that could be considered a “taking.”

A county aerial shows the property in 2015. Image courtesy Sarasota County

A Sarasota County aerial shows the property in 1998, outlined in blue.

Image courtesy Sarasota County

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March 2016

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Siesta Village property owners may balk at expense of new parking plan |County staff estimates the cost of 90 spaces at $100,000; private landowners would have to be willing to offer more spots to reach the 300 mark a Siesta architect’s research shows to be feasible

By Rachel Brown Hackney - SarasotaNewsLeader.com It would cost about $100,000 to create less than 100 new parking spaces in rights of way around Siesta Village, and the owners of property in the Public Improvement District (PID) would have to be willing to pick up the tab: That was the news Siesta Key Village Association (SKVA) Vice President Mark Smith of Smith Architects reported during the organization’s monthly meeting on Feb. 2.

The figure is an estimate for a feasibility study and the laying of decorative pavers in right of ways, he pointed out.

Last month, Smith told The Sarasota News Leader (SNL) his research indicated about 90 spots could be carved out of right of ways. Altogether, he said at that time, he had found enough space — including private property — to support 300 more spaces.

During a Jan. 5 interview, Smith explained that one of those privately held parking areas is a shell-covered lot next to The UPS Store on Beach Road. At the February meeting, he told the SKVA members, “It’s really up to [that] property owner to apply for a special exception” from the county to enable the parking spaces in that lot to be used for the public.

Other areas in the Village that Smith examined in working on the parking plan also are owned by private individuals or groups, he noted in January, so it would be up to them, as well, to choose whether to allow extra public parking spaces.

Counting all legal parking spots within the Village and its immediate surroundings, including spaces in the Municipal

Lot, 999 are available, a 2008 county study determined. That number has not changed, county staff confirmed in January.

During an interview after the February meeting, Smith said he first will talk with board members of the Siesta Key Village Maintenance Corp. (SKVMC) to gauge their interest in the plan, given its projected expense.

However, he already is expecting a lot of pushback, he pointed out, regarding county staff’s indications that the county will not be willing to cover any of the cost.

In a Feb. 3 email to SNL, Lisa Cece, the special district coordinator in the county’s Transportation and Real Estate departments who oversees Village maintenance for the county, affirmed that the county’s regular assessment of the PID property owners does not provide for or fund any parking areas — new or existing ones. She made a similar comment during the SKVA meeting.

Smith told SNL he probably will call a meeting soon of the SKVMC board. After that discussion, he will talk with a contractor to get a better projection of the expense of putting down the pavers in the rights of way.

However, he pointed out, if the board members are not interested in paying for the extra parking, “it doesn’t matter how much it costs.”

The SKVMC board represents all the property owners in the Siesta Key Village Public Improvement District (PID). The PID was established in 2006 to fund ongoing maintenance of the Village after the county agreed to pay for the beautification of the area. According to Smith, the

SKVMC board normally meets once a year.

In a July 2011 email regarding PID matters — a copy of which SNL has in its records — Smith noted that 60 individuals or groups owned the 92 parcels that made up the district at that time.

In response to a request after the Feb. 2 meeting, Cece provided the most recent graphic she has in her office that shows the PID parcels and the property owner count.

That graphic has 50 parcel identification numbers, she pointed out, and one of those covers multiple units.

As for property owner pushback, Jim Syprett, who, with business partner Jay Lancer, owns a number of parcels on Ocean Boulevard, told SNL in a Feb. 3 telephone interview that he would offer a general statement about the matter: “I have always been extremely disappointed in the county’s support of the Village as compared to the [City of Sarasota’s] support of St. Armands Circle.”

For many years, Syprett added, the situations have been “like night and day.”

Syprett pointed out that the county’s property tax revenue from Siesta Village is significantly larger than the amount of money the county spends on services to the Village area on an annual basis.

In response to a request for information, Rana A. Moye, deputy tax collector for Sarasota County, undertook research that showed the original certified amount of ad valorem tax revenue

A 2008 Sarasota County parking study for Siesta Village included this graphic showing the land uses at that time in the Public Improvement District.

Image courtesy Sarasota County

to be collected for 2015 in the Siesta Key Public Improvement District is $154,954.92. She noted that differences in the actual money collected might be based on corrections to the tax roll and discounts, which could be as much as 4 percent.

Cece said in response to a SNL question that the county provides emergency services, solid waste collections and stormwater services for Siesta Village, but she did not put an annual value on

them.

Village business owners also have pointed out for years that the county receives a significant portion of its Tourist Development Tax revenue from the island.

During the 2015 fiscal year, which ended on Sept. 30, 2015, Siesta accounted for almost 32 percent of the total collections: $6,076,806.75, according to the records of the Sarasota County Tax Collector’s Office.

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Siesta Sand

March 2016

Financial Focus As an investor, you may be gaining familiarity with the term “market correction.” But what does it mean? And, more importantly, what does it mean to you?

A correction occurs when a key index, such as the S&P 500, declines at least 10% from its previous high. A correction, by definition, is short-term in nature and has historically happened fairly regularly – about once a year.

However, over the past several years, we’ve experienced fewer corrections, so when we have one now, it seems particularly jarring to investors.

How should you respond to a market correction? The answer may depend, to some extent, on your stage of life.

• If you’re still working… If you are in the early or middle parts of your working life, you might not have to concern yourself much about a market correction because you have decades to overcome a short-term downturn. Instead of selling stocks, and stock-based investments, to supposedly “cut your losses,” you may find that now is a good time to buy more

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

|How Should You Respond to Market “Correction”?

shares of quality companies, when their price is down.

Also, you may want to use the opportunity of a correction to become aware of the need to periodically review and rebalance your portfolio. Stocks, and investments containing stocks, often perform well before a correction. If their price has risen greatly, they may account for a greater percentage of the total value of your portfolio – so much so, in fact, that you might become “overweighted” in stocks, relative to your goals, risk tolerance and time horizon.

That’s why it’s important for you to proactively rebalance your portfolio – or, during a correction, the market may do it for you. To cite one aspect of rebalancing, if your portfolio ever does become too “stock-heavy,” you may need to add some bonds or other fixed-rate vehicles. Not only can these investments help keep your portfolio in balance, but they also may hold up better during a correction.

• If you’re retired… After you retire, you may need to take money from your investment accounts –

that is, sell some investments – to help pay for your cost of living. Ideally, however, you don’t want to sell stocks, or stock-based vehicles, during a correction – because when you do, you may be “selling low.” (Remember the most common rule of investing: Buy low and sell high. It’s not always easy to follow, but it’s still pretty good advice.)

So, to avoid being forced into selling, you need to be prepared.

During your retirement years, try to keep at least a year’s worth of cash instruments on hand as well as short-term fixed income investments. By having this money to draw on, you may be able to leave your stocks alone and give them a chance to recover, post-correction.

And it’s important to maintain a reasonable percentage of stocks, and stock-based vehicles, in your portfolio, even during retirement – because these investments may provide the growth necessary to help keep you ahead of inflation.

Consequently, as a retiree, you should have a balance of stocks and stock-based vehicles, along with fixed-income vehicles, such

as bonds, certificates of deposit, government securities and so on.

Being prepared can help you get through a correction – no matter where you are on life’s journey.

Siesta Key Round-Up

By Bob Stein and Rachel Brown Hackney Variance approved for Beach Road property

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

Siesta Key, FL 34242 (941)-346-0560 phone (941)-320-4030 mobile Joe.StOnge@edwardjones.com This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

On Feb. 17, the Sarasota County Commission unanimously approved a coastal setback variance for the construction of a backyard pool for the house at 113 Beach Road.

Before the vote, however, most of the board members’ discussion focused on frustrations regarding precedence, consistency and the desire to avoid legal challenges after they approve such construction.

They also debated revising the county’s Coastal Setback Code, though a senior staff member cautioned that could lead to more problems.

The focus of attention was the fact that the 200-square-foot pool would be seaward of the county’s Gulf Beach Setback Line (GBSL). Weiqi Lin, a county coastal engineer, made clear in his presentation that the Continued on page 6

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Tornado Aftermath: Picking up the Pieces

By Robert Frederickson

In the immediate aftermath of the F2 tornado that ripped the roof off building five at the Excelsior Beach to Bay Condominiums on January 17, the first reaction of residents and guests at the complex after the initial shock was one of relief. Things could have been so much worse. No one died on the Key as a result of the storm. There weren’t even any serious injuries attributed to the twister that swept in from the Gulf that frightening Sunday morning, though a couple in Duette, Florida was killed by another tornado spawned by the same system that produced the one that left its mark on Siesta.

So a few days after the storm, with the danger past and cleanup efforts underway, things started to return to normal; and as they did, an intriguing question arose in the minds of residents and county emergency management officials alike: just where had building five’s roof gone?

There was certainly debris strewn about the Excelsior grounds and adjacent properties said Scott Montgomery of Sarasota County’s emergency management team. But not to the degree one would expect given the volume of material that would have comprised the building’s missing roof.

So where was it?

The likely answer? Just to the east, below the now peaceful waters of Little Sarasota Bay. Not a bad thing you might think, since such an outcome might be assumed to reduce the time, trouble and expenses of the cleanup effort.

But not so fast. Rather than helping, the submerged debris would pose an even greater challenge for cleanup crews than would have been the case if the wreckage had been confined to dry land.

That’s because all that debris couldn’t simply be left ‘buried at sea,’ so-to-speak. It would need to be retrieved and hauled away.

“The county has the responsibility to keep the bay clear of anything that could pose a navigational hazard,” said Montgomery in a recent phone interview. It’s also important to the health of local waters that they not be fouled by construction debris or other inorganic materials, he

explained.

But first, the debris would have to be located.

As it turned out, the county had a tool well suited to the task.

“We have a side-scan sonar that lets us see what’s down there,” said Montgomery.

It’s the same type of high-tech device routinely used by treasure seekers and salvage companies.

In this instance, it offered a considerable savings in time and effort for the county – not to mention enhanced safety – over alternatives like putting divers in the chilly January waters to visually scan the bay’s bottom.

It didn’t take long for the sonar to map out a large debris field spread across the bay floor between the Excelsior’s bay frontage and the western end of Baywinds Lane on the mainland where the tornado made its second landfall.

Once the sonar had located the storm wreckage, a barge equipped with a crane/drag line was used to scoop the debris from the bay bottom and deposit it on additional barges nearby that then ferried it to a landing site near the Stickney Point bridge where it was loaded onto trucks and hauled away.

How much of the debris was recovered?

“33 tons of it,” said Montgomery.

It took roughly a dozen county workers the better part of three days to complete the task, he explained.

It’s a sobering thought, given the storm’s relatively compact footprint in the area. Just imagine the scope of the cleanup efforts following a hurricane blowing in across the entire length of the island instead of across just a few hundred yards of it, as was the case here.

Montgomery would probably rather not consider that scenario, but then again, given his position, he doesn’t have that luxury.

Building Department Update: Permitting process Continues

Last month Siesta Sand reported that the Excelsior and its insurers would be required to provide the county building department with an engineering analysis of the damage to the two structures on the property most heavily damaged by the storm: building five near the bay and the gulf front building on the opposite side of Midnight Pass Road. The gulf front building did not lose its roof but still sustained major damage to many of its mechanical and safety systems, including damage to the A/C system and broken or missing balcony railings.

Both buildings were deemed uninhabitable and evacuated on the day of the storm.

As we went to press, both remain uninhabited, and according to our latest information from county building official Kathy Croteau, the required engineering analysis needed as part of the final permitting process had not yet been received. Permits will not be granted for final repairs to

the buildings until that analysis has been received, reviewed and approved by the county, meaning that early projections for repairs to be completed within three months of the storm’s January 17 date were perhaps overly optimistic. According to a Siesta Sand source wishing to remain anonymous, the most optimistic timeline in place now calls for a completion date three to six months from now, taking us well into summer.

As pointed out in our earlier story recounting the experience of those living at the Dolphin Towers in downtown Sarasota when it was deemed uninhabitable by the city five years ago, optimism is sometimes difficult to sustain in situations like this when insurers, owners, contractors and government agencies are all at the same table, each group with its own, often competing set of priorities.

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Siesta Sand

March 2016

Siesta Key Round-Up petitioners’ house is located across Beach Road from another building — Siesta Sands on the Beach — that fronts on the Gulf of Mexico.

The pool would be constructed on pilings, he added, and it would be 619.8 feet landward of the current Mean High Water Line.

The coastal setback variance petition formally was made by RGM Properties LLC. The owners of the property are Robert and Gay Moxley of Osprey, who bought the home in September 2013 for $610,000, according to Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office records. The house was built in 1940, the records say.

“It doesn’t seem to be terribly invasive,” Caragiulo said of the plan for the pool. “I don’t see any reason to deny [the petition].”

“It’s nowhere near the beach,” Maio pointed out. “I don’t see that we’re opening up the floodgates with this one.”

The man has a sense of humor

During the Jan. 19 Siesta Key Condominium Council membership meeting, Sarasota

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net Continued from page 4

Morton’s Siesta Village Market

County Commission Chair Al Maio answered quite a few tough questions. At one point, to interject some levity, he said, “I’m Paul Caragiulo, by the way; I’m not Al Maio.”

Maio and Caragiulo — a former Sarasota city commissioner — both were elected to the county board in 2014.

As questions multiplied about Benderson Development’s plans for the property it owns at the northwest corner of U.S. 41 and Stickney Point Road, Maio encouraged the audience members to voice their feelings during public hearings on projects. Everyone is allowed 5 minutes, he noted.

“Say whatever you want … [but] no spitting, swearing or throwing things ….”

The outside renovations have begun for Morton’s Siesta Market.

A new grand entrance to the store is being added. Once the façade is completed, the inside of the store will be done in gradual stages so the store can stay open during the remaining stages of remodeling.

A message from the Siesta Key Association

Looking back over the past year, the Siesta Key Association (SKA) has been involved in many projects and discussions including the renourishment of Lido Key sand, proposed roundabouts at Midnight Pass Rd. and Beach Rd., traffic flow and lights at Midnight Pass Rd. and Stickney Point Rd., the parking at Turtle Beach, illegal house rentals on the Key, noise complaints, Sheriff’s reports, Siesta Beach pavilion revamp, road speed limits, and much more. Several of these are ongoing topics at SKA’s monthly meeting, and we welcome you to join us.

This past year, SKA donated

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money on our members’ behalf to the Sarasota Sheriff’s department to help bring Christmas cheer to local families in need, as well as donating to the Junior Life Saving program, the Crystal Classic sand sculpture contest, and the 4th of July fireworks.

Once again, SKA took part in the Light up the Village parade with our volunteer antique fire truck which again tired out and needed to be pushed, but we did manage to give out 650 candy canes to the children.

Please join us at our Annual Member Breakfast on March 5, at 8:30 a.m. in the community room at St. Boniface Church with our guest speakers, Sarasota County Commissioner Al Maio and County Administrator Tom Harmer. Visitor cost is $15 at the door. If you join SKA, the membership fee of $30.00 includes 2 complimentary tickets to the breakfast, limited seating available. Go to our SKA website to become a member or to renew your membership for 2016. www. siestakeyassociation.com

16th Annual Easter Egg Hunt and Games

The Siesta Key Village Association is sponsoring the

2016 Easter Party for children ages 1-6. Saturday March 26, 9 a.m. to noon at Beach Access No. 5. Each child receives an Easter Stuffed Animal and an Easter Egg Hunt Goody Bag stuffed with prizes, along with a chance to find 5 eggs.

Face painters will be there and opportunities to ride the trolley, tour the Siesta Key ambulance and fire truck and participate in other fun family entertainment.

Sheriff Dept. fingerprinting kits are available. Registration is limited to the first 125 children. There is a $10 registration fee per child. For additional information contact Roz at rhyman@sentinelfl.com

Volunteers needed

The Siesta Key Village Association is seeking volunteers to help with the 16th Annual Easter Egg Hunt. Volunteers will fill the eggs and goody bags the week prior to the event. Volunteers are also needed at the event on Saturday March 26, at Beach Access No. 5. Anyone interested in helping with this event call 941284-4381.

Continued on page 31

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CB’s Outfitters Serves Siesta Key CB’s SALTWATER OUTFITTERS is the perfect shop for Siesta Key. Consisting of two stores located by Stickney Point Bridge on Siesta Key, it is a treasure trove of offerings related to boating, fishing, and the beach.

Owned by Aledia Tush and her son, Mason Tush, the store is a densely packed place of action. It has 21 full-time and part-time employees, all busy keeping the shops afloat.

It didn’t start off that way. Aledia and her husband, Lee, purchased it in 1976 at the encouragement of her father, who had settled in Sarasota. At the time, it was just a small bait and fishing tackle shop which also offered a small assortment of things to tantalize tourists: mopeds, CB radios, small boat and bicycle rentals, rollaway beds and high chairs.

When Aledia and Lee met as students at Morehead State University in Kentucky, operating a rustic Mom-and-Pop business on an island in Florida was not exactly the life they envisioned. Oh, they knew they wanted to go into business, alright, but never thought it would be bait and tackle. A few years later, her father won them over with his recommendation. Her father was convinced of the potential of the property, so they jumped in feet first.

“You guys will be fine,” he pronounced: and sure enough they were!

Fortuitously, Aledia had taken a double-major in Business Administration and Psychology, both useful in running a business, and Lee graduated with a Master’s Degree in Business Administration. Aledia and Lee worked together for eight years before they bought into Culver Aluminum Construction Company, leaving Aledia to run CB’s.

She took the helm, while Lee continued to function as bookkeeper/accountant.

Gradually, son Mason became involved, but first he had to do some growing up. In school, he played a lot of sports, and only occasionally was available to help at the store. He attended the University of Florida, where he studied marketing and graduated in

March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

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By Diana Colson

2005. Today, he works alongside his mother as a co-owner and operator of CB’s SALTWATER OUTFITTERS. ‘My parents started with a handful of boat rentals,” says Mason. “Now we have 20 boats: 18 here, and 2 more at the Sarasota Hyatt Regency, where we also operate a small gift shop.”

Siesta Parasail runs an operation at CB’s, and customers may book rides at the store. The boat goes out of the adjacent dock and heads for the Gulf, where—on a good day—upwards of 50 people experience the thrill of flying high over the Gulf of Mexico. Eric and Ty are the operators of Siesta Parasail.

CB’s used to own a jet ski company.

Now they lease that space to Mike and Sheila Lewis, who own Siesta Key Jet Ski—a company that offers not only jet skis, but also paddleboards, kayaks, bikes and scooters.

CB’s offers high-quality outdoor apparel, clothes that dry quickly and provide UPF protection. They also offer a wide selection of premium flip flops and sandals as well as an enormous array of sunglasses, coolers, waterproof backpacks, t-shirts, shorts, hats and beach towels. They carry name-brands such as Columbia, Patagonia, Royal Robbins, Simms, Toad, Quiksilver, Reef, and Vissla.

From the bare-bones bait and tackle shop purchased in `76, CB’s has expanded.

It now offers a wide variety of fishing equipment: rods, reels, line, lures, hooks, sinkers, vests, chum bags, floating tools, filet boards, bait buckets, live shrimp and the like. CB’s has been named an official ORVIS ENDORSED OUTFITTER. They are one of the first and one of the few ORVIS ENDORSED OUTFITTERS in Florida.

Aledia and Mason go to buying shows several times a year, shows such as ICAST, THE SURF SHOW, and OUTDOOR RETAILER. Aledia serves as head buyer. Emily Rebennack helps select clothing, as does Brad Kerns, who also handles accessories, shoes and

sunglasses. CB’s manager Doug Forde also handles the ordering of fishing tackle.

The employees at CB’s are evidently quite happy. One employee—Randy Crawford— has worked at CB’s for 38 years. Manager Chris Campbell has been there 25 years, while Doug Forde has served for 20.

Says Mason: “We are really blessed to have 14 fishing captains with whom customers can book charters. Ed Hurst has been here the longest. He used to own the gas station two doors down.”

Mason continued: “We are lucky to have commercial water access on Siesta Key. This has allowed us to have many services and activities for the booming tourist economy and to serve our local residents. Live bait is the initial draw, bringing in an endless stream of people who want to buy sunglasses and t-shirts.”

A few years ago, the Tushs bought the nearby gas station. They remodeled the old building and turned it into a second store, giving them a chance to expand.

They moved over all the children’s things: clothes, t-shirts, books, beach equipment and toys. This second shop, CB’s ISLAND OUTFITTERS, also features U.S. Diver’s snorkeling equipment masks, fins, snorkels, plus beach chairs and umbrellas.

The Tush family has been community minded. Aledia has served several years on the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors. She currently serves on the Executive Board. Mason is Chairman of the Sarasota Sports Fishing Angler’s Club Tarpon Tournament. Both are members of Coastal Conservation Association (CCA), the American Sportfishing Association, and Aledia was recently elected to her second term on the ASA Board of Directors as Southeastern U.S. Representative.

CB’s Saltwater Outfitters is located at 1249 Stickney Point Road, island side just over the Stickney Point Bridge. The store is open 7 days a week from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.

941-349-4400.

Aledia and Mason Tush owners of CB’s Saltwater Outfitters

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Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Siesta Key Chamber’s Annual Dinner

New Executive Director, Ann Frescura addresses the SKCC members at the annual dinner awards

(l-r) Lance Harden, Russell Matthes, Brad Stewart and Mike Lewis

During her report at the SKVA meeting, Chamber Executive Director, Ann Frescura said her organization’s annual dinner, held on Jan. 22 at TPC Prestancia, was very well attended.

“Mark Smith is the new chair”, she added, “and Aledia Tush, co-owner of C.B.’s Saltwater Outfitters, is the new chairelect; Kay Kouvatsos, co-owner of Village Café, is the secretary,” Frescura noted, “while Brad Stewart of Captain Curt’s Crab & Oyster Bar is the treasurer.”

“During the annual dinner,” Frescura continued, “four businesses received special Community Partner awards: Captain Curt’s, Village Café, the Daiquiri Deck and Mattison’s Forty-One.”

Ardith Tromley and Mike Gatz

Other award recipients were as follows: Large Business of the Year: First Watch Restaurants Small Business of the Year: Sassy Hair Salon Business Person of the Year: Michael Lewis of Siesta Sports Rentals & Siesta Key Jet Ski Sharon Cunningham Visitor’s Center Volunteer of the Year: Ardith Tromley

Chris Tomasso of First Watch Restaurants and Joan Woods of Sassy Hair

Volunteer of the Year: Mike Gatz of Gilligan’s Island Bar Shining Star of the Year: Lance Harden of Siesta Key Bike & Kayak Presidential Appreciation: Alana Tomasso of Midnight Cove Board Service Appreciation: Maria Bankemper of Best Western Plus and Bill Abel of Abel’s Ice Cream

Bill Abel, Maria Bankemper and Alana Tomasso

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March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

9

Highlights from the Siesta Key Association Meeting |Egging incidents reported in one neighborhood; the Coast Guard issues a Notice to Mariners in advance of the dredging for the South Siesta Renourishment Project; and the SKA gets a new board member

By Rachel Brown Hackney - SarasotaNewsLeader.com With reports of Siesta homes having been egged over the last weekend in January, the Sarasota County Sheriff’s Office is searching for two perpetrators described as possibly 15 or 16 years of age, Sgt. Jason Mruczek told about 70 members of the Siesta Key Association (SKA) during their regular meeting on Feb. 4.

The incidents were reported to have occurred about 9:15 p.m. on Saint Albans Avenue and Oxford Drive, he noted.

Shortly before 9 p.m. on Jan. 30, the report filed with the Sheriff’s Office says, two suspects appearing to be juveniles “bought about $45 worth of eggs from Morton’s Market at 205 Canal Road” in Siesta Village. One homeowner contacted the department on behalf of herself and another person, the report points out. The victim told the Sheriff’s Office that eggs were thrown at the front doors of both residences. The person who contacted the department added

Sgt. Jason Mruczek that the suspects “must have walked onto her driveway given the position of her front door,” because her surveillance cameras did not record their images.

Mruczek told the SKA audience that officers had obtained surveillance video from the market and planned to show it to Sarasota County school resource officers, who know “all the problem children.” They hope to put names to the faces. He added that he felt good about the chances of catching

the teens.

The Sheriff’s Office report notes that after the suspects left the market, they climbed into a vehicle that was driven by another juvenile. That appeared to be a newer model Jeep Wrangler, Mruczek told the SKA members, and it looked as though it were dark blue.

Another call about egging was investigated on Feb. 8, Sheriff’s Office records show. Wendy Rose, community affairs manager for the office, provided The Sarasota News Leader (SNL) a case card showing that the latest incident was also on Oxford Drive. Deputy Brandon Clark investigated it, but he had not filed a report by the SNL’s deadline this week.

Mruczek reminded all those at the SKA meeting not to hesitate to contact the Sheriff’s Office if they observe a vehicle driving unusually slow up and down streets in a neighborhood. The non-emergency number is 316-

1201. However, he said a person should not refrain from calling 911 with concerns about suspicious people or cars.

In an unrelated matter, Mruczek noted that the department is preparing to put more deputies on patrol on the island, as the annual influx of students on spring break gets under way.

When Mruczek asked whether anyone had questions for him, one male audience member pointed out that “all the gawkers” who came to Siesta to look at the damage from the Jan. 17 tornado impeded traffic, including emergency responders.

The man conceded that “tornadoes are not frequent here,” but he asked whether the Sheriff’s Office planned to close roads to outside traffic if such an event occurs again.

Mruczek replied that that is a possibility, “and towing is always an option.”

Several of the 12 deputies who worked on the island in the storm’s

aftermath directed traffic, Mruczek added. Still, “it’s very rare for something like [a tornado touching down] to happen [on Siesta Key],” he pointed out.

SKA Second Vice President Catherine Luckner told Mruczek that the organization posted a notice on its website after the tornado struck, warning people who did not live on the island to refrain from coming over there — just as the Sheriff’s Office had pleaded on its Facebook page at 1:16 p.m. that day. The Sheriff’s Office’s notice said, “If you do not live on Siesta Key or do not have business there today, please do not travel there.

Onlookers are causing traffic problems for emergency personnel and creating additional risks for residents, particularly those on foot. Thank you for your patience and for respecting their needs during storm recovery efforts.

Continued on page 31

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10 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Massage Experience, Siesta Key Celebrating 20 Years (1996-2016) 23 years ago back in her hometown of Worcester Massachusetts, Connie Lewis, LMT, Aesthetician and Spa Director knew there was a better life somewhere else. During the course of her 2 year training at the esteemed Bancroft School of Massage she definitively decided to move south to re-start her life and career while still in her 20’s.

With a degree in Communications/Media and many years post grad experience in the field she was ready to make the jump. Aiming at, and landing in Sarasota, Florida was the perfect place to launch it all. She opened the doors of Massage Experience, Siesta Key in the summer of 1996 and has continually expanded her scope of practice as the business grew simultaneously.

During the early years Massage Experience offered relaxation and therapeutic massage. Since then Connie has expanded the practice to include facials and spa treatments, adding staff over the years

to keep up with her growing business.

She continued her training in 2004 at Fashion Focus Academy earning her facial specialist certification. Massage Experience, Siesta Key has transformed into a lovely boutique day spa. There are 3 treatment rooms to accommodate small groups.

Connie has specialized and honed her skills for facial rejuvenation through the years and is proud to offer the area’s only anti-aging Micro-Current face lift facial treatment. It not only produces immediate results but gets more noticeable with every treatment. This relaxing facial includes lots of head, neck and shoulder massage and is guaranteed to pamper and sooth.

Still passionate and focused on healing and therapy, Connie attracts many clients who are challenged with debilitating illnesses and/ or who are recovering from surgery or accidents. Having personal experience healing

from several of her own past physical challenges gives her the ability and confidence to help others facing their own healing journeys.

Connie has handpicked the areas most experienced and professional staff to ensure an amazing and customized experience for each client.

On board are Shanon Bogert, LMT, NMT (23 years licensed in Florida) whose specialty and passion is neruo-muscular and sports massage. She has worked many years in Sarasota, many at the Longboat Key club.

She began her career at a local chiropractor where she worked for 7 years.

Melanie Beringer, LMT comes to us from the Grove Park Inn and Resort and Spa where she spent 12 years in this very high end spa in Asheville, North Carolina. She is passionate about her dōTERRA essential oils and hot stone massage. Melanie is certified in pre-natal massage and reflexology.

Olivia Hylen Baez, LMT has

been licensed since 2005 and has an associates of art degree.

She loves soothing and healing her clients. She has a real passion for massage and loves helping her clients feel better.

Olivia is multi lingual; speaks fluent Spanish and can speak some French and German as well.

Frederick Dost, LMT has many years of practice and remains as passionate about his craft as the day he began some 25 plus years ago. Frederick’s massages are long, unhurried, soothing treatments that can include deep pressure combined with softer sedating strokes and some assisted stretching.

Massage Experience, Siesta Key is open 7-days a week and located in the Davidson’s Plaza in the Village. Visit their website at www.massageexperiencesk. com for a complete list of services and prices.

Connie Lewis (MA00017596, MM0006727) LMT/Aesthetician/Owner Massage Experience, Siesta Key 5138-A Ocean Blvd, Davidson’s Plaza, in the Village www.Massageexperiencesk.com 941-349-4833 (Advertorial)

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

Sheriff’s Report

March 2016

Jan. 16 - Feb. 13, 2016

There were a total of 26 crimes reported on the Key from 1/16-2/13/16 onto it and thought it 1/17/16 Stolen was funny. He stated that Vehicle the suspect asked if he Public Beach could swap hats quickly,

A man parked his silver 2012 Toyota Camry at the beach lot at approximately 1:30pm. When he returned later that afternoon, it was gone. There was no record of the vehicle being towed and the owner said all car payments had been made.

The car had been locked and there were no keys with the vehicle.

1/17/16 Burglary Business 4000 Block Gleason Ave.

An employee of a church reported someone had broken into the business. She had last been there at 1:30 that afternoon when she left for the day. She stated that the only other people who had been at the church that day were those attending a meeting that took place at 7pm that night. When the woman returned to the church later that night, the deadbolts to the front door were open. There were signs of forced entry with a glass windowpane broken. It appeared someone had gained access through the front door after unlocking it.

The unknown subject went into four offices in the building, opened a single drawer in each office, and left. Nothing was reported missing, but the employee found it very strange that someone would break in and not take anything. There were no possible suspects and due to weather conditions, the officer was unable to canvass the area. However, fingerprints and DNA swabs were obtained for processing.

1/24/16 Grand Theft 4000 Block Shell Rd.

A woman reported a lawn ornament valued at $500 was stolen from her front yard.

The ornament had been unsecured and was described as a black resin sheep.

1/25/16 BurglaryResidence 5000 Block Higel Ave.

A woman called her out of town neighbor to report that his home had been burglarized

while he was away. The neighbor noticed the garage door was open.

She approached the residence and observed the front door had been forced open. Drawers throughout the house were open and rummaged through. The items that appeared to be missing were two 40-inch Samsung televisions, one in the living room and one in the master. Another television was missing from a guest bedroom.

The homeowner stated that prior to leaving town, he had numerous contractors working on his house.

Prints lifted from the door handle and DNA swabs taken from drawer handles were submitted into evidence.

1/30/16 BurglaryBusiness Public Beach

A supervisor of the lifeguards at the public beach said an unknown suspect forced entry into the red and the yellow lifeguard stands and committed a burglary. Both of the pad lock latches were pried from the wooden doors in order to gain entry. The suspect also removed a beach umbrella from the red stand and threw it down on the sand. Items stolen from the red stand included 2 screwdrivers and a first aid kit, total valued at approximately $58. A medical equipment item, 2 scuba jackets and a vest valued at approximately $450 were taken from the yellow stand.

12/8/16 Petit Theft 1200 Old Stickney Pt. Rd

A man reported his hat was taken that evening. He stated he was having beverages at the bar with a group of six individuals he had met at the bar. He stated that the suspect saw his black ball cap with “MCQ” and “Jesuit” stitched

and the suspect gave the victim his hat in exchange for the victim’s hat. The suspect then stated that he had to go to his vacation condo across the street, left with the victim’s hat and never came back. The victim did not have any other information about the suspect aside from his name.

He believed the man had clearly had too many alcoholic beverages and took his hat accidentally. He did not want to press charges at this time and believes he will get his hat back the following day. He asked the officer to follow up and call him with the results.

2/11/16 Battery 6000 Block Midnight Pass Rd.

Officers responded to a call regarding a fight at a nightclub.

The victim, who was obviously intoxicated, explained that he was at the jukebox selecting music when a man came up behind him and punched him on the right side of his face. The victim stated he did not suffer any injuries, but did fall to the ground. The victim believes the subject hit him because he did not like his choice in music. During the investigation, several bar patrons informed the officer that the victim was causing a disturbance inside the bar prior to the incident.

2/11/16 Carrying a Concealed Weapon/ Possession of Controlled Substance/Introduction of Contraband 5000 Block Ocean Blvd.

Officers on foot patrol in the Village noticed an unknown female crying in the parking lot near the defendant. They approached a vehicle that had several female subjects around it with the defendant sitting inside. The defendant was sitting in the rear driver’s seat with the door open.

One of the officers walked up to the vehicle and shined a flashlight on the defendant and asked if he knew the girl that was crying.

Continued on page 31

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

11

12 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

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The Shoe Store of Siesta Key Comfort Shoes is the only shoe store on Siesta Key. Formally known as Rick’s Birkenstock, this family-run business opened its doors in 1978.

In 2008, Rick Lizotte came into the picture. Originally from a little town in Massachusetts, he had lived the life of a successful businessman. When he realized that Rick’s Birkenstock was on the market, he felt the hand of Providence!

Rick Lizotte grew up on a street that had only 20 houses. He went to Massachusetts State College where he studied to be a teacher, then immediately sidestepped this teaching career by going into the business world. For the next 25 years he worked for a wholesale manufacturer of shoes, and traveled much of the country calling on stores both big and small, many of them large chains.

Says Rick, “It was the 70’s, and we still had shoe factories in this country. Back then, shoes were 98% domestic and 2% foreign.

Today that statistic is reversed.”

Rick Lizotte and his family settled on Siesta Key 29 years ago, and he commuted around the USA as needed for his various business operations.

His sons, Todd and Joshua, went to high school here, moved away, and are now back in town, having brought with them two wives and four sons of their own.

In the 1990’s Rick stopped working for the wholesale manufacturer of shoes, and went into business for himself. He bought 7 small companies and merged them into one. In 1995, he ended up owning a Commercial Printing Business in New Orleans which had 50 employees. This was a large operation. All was going smoothly until 2005, when Hurricane Katrina took him out. In 2008, Rick bought Comfort Shoes on Siesta Key. His oldest son, Todd, ran it for the first two years while Rick went off to play golf five days a week. “I needed more,” says Rick, so he became increasingly involved with the operation of his shoe store. Comfort Shoes felt like home from day one.

“Many knee, hip and back problems stem from wearing the wrong shoes”, and Rick saw the store as a way to make a contribution to improving people’s health. “Our shoes are all about comfort,” says Rick. “Ours is a fun, FUN store! I’m very proud

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of our lines. A lot of people look at us as just a resort store, but our local business is very good.

Even the seasonals return every year, and that is kind of neat.

They all come by to say hello.”

In addition to the 200-year-old Birkenstock line, Comfort Shoes handles Birki’s, A’RCOPEDICO, Papillio, and Taos footwear. They also carry Naot (a 60 year old shoe company from Israel); and Mephisto (a 65 year old French company). Other shoe offerings include Merrell, Teva, SAS, Sebago, Tommy Bahama, OluKai, Fitflop, Ecco, Chaco, and—my personal favorite— OOFOS, a newly invented modestly priced sandal made from gel foam.

Not so long ago, people used to stop in to see Barney, a real live

By Diana Colson

Bassett Hound who ‘worked’ at the store for 5 years. (Bassetts are the logo dogs for Hush Puppies, a large conglomerate of shoe stores.) Rick grins: “Barney’s union contract cut him down to 3 days a week, and now he is retired.” Today, a small toy Bassett sits on a shelf reminding visitors of the Barney days.

Only 500 yards from the beach, Comfort Shoes is located in the village at 5128 Ocean Boulevard, right next to Davidson’s Drugs. It is open 7 days a week: 10 to 5 on Monday through Saturday, and 9 to 1 on Sunday. Many of their shoes can be seen on their website at www.comfortshoessiestakey. com . The store can be reached by phone at (941) 346-7425.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Ribbon Cutting – The Cottages at Siesta Key The Cottages at Siesta Key – 1105 Point of Rocks Road (formerly the Banana Bay Club) held a ribbon-cutting and open house at the end January to celebrate the launch of their completely renovated resort. The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce joined in at the event.

The cottages have all new updates, including new furniture, bathrooms, porcelain floors, granite/quartz kitchen counters and whisper quiet a/c! Still located a quick 100 yards from the most beautiful beach in America.

Photo credit: Visit Sarasota County

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13

14 Siesta Sand

March 2016

Say I Do, Again 2016 “Say I Do, Again”, is a vow renewal event held annually on Valentine’s Day on spectacular Siesta Beach. Magistrate and Circuit Judge, Charlie Roberts leads a nondenominational service sponsored by Sarasota County Parks and Recreation.

Participants preregister and pay a five dollar fee. Each participant receives a decorative certificate which includes their name, and how long they’ve been married.

They’re also presented with a personalized insulated lunch bag, a rose, ceremonial cookies and bottled water.

Diana Finnegan Sarasota County Parks and Recreation Supervisor said, “We have just over 500 couples registered between Venice Beach and Siesta Beach. This is one of our most popular events each year”.

Bob and Barbara Van Nostrand of Sarasota proudly wearing her first veil, as they eloped 35 years ago.

She purchased the veil at Designer Consigner in Sarasota

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

By Trebor Britt

Bruce and Helane Abramowitz of Lido Key still love struck after 35 years.

Like several participants, wearing her original veil, but possibly the only bride accompanied by her maid of honor.

They were originally married at Dunfey’s Parker House restaurant in Boston Massachusetts

Larry and Pat Richardson dancing away the time before this year’s “Say I Do, Again” re-commitment ceremony. They’ve been married 47 years and are seasonal residents of Northport who live the rest of the year in Ontario Canada. Although this is their first year to participate in this event, they made a recommitment of their wedding vows at the Graceland Wedding Chapel in Las Vegas and was married by Elvis.

Phil and Norma Fehr and Shirley (10) of Sarasota will celebrate their 11th anniversary this year. They were originally married at the Sarasota courthouse and later that year at Philippi Estate Park. This was their first time participating in the “Say I Do, Again” event.

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

15

No word yet on when federal agency will provide response to state’s last questions on Lido Renourishment Project |In the meantime, Siesta Key Association vice president commends the work of multiple organizations in opposing plan to dredge Big Pass By Rachel Brown Hackney - SarasotaNewsLeader.com The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is still at work on its response to the Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s second request for information regarding the proposal to dredge Big Sarasota Pass to renourish Lido Key Beach.

That was the latest update — provided on Feb. 4 — from Lt. Col. Susan J. Jackson (U.S. Army Reserve), the USACE spokeswoman in the agency’s Jacksonville District Office. She was responding to a Sarasota News Leader (SNL) request for information.

In October 2015, the Florida Department of Environmental Protection (FDEP) issued its second Request for Additional Information (RAI2), seeking further details pertaining to the $19-million proposal to dredge the pass and build two groins on South Lido to try to hold the sand in place between renourishments scheduled every five years. The USACE and the City of Sarasota need an FDEP permit before the project can get under way.

However, Jackson also told SNL in late November 2015 that Congress has not awarded any funding for the project, though the USACE expected to get final budget figures early this year, possibly this month.

In conjunction with issuing the RAI2, FDEP sent an Oct. 7, 2015 letter to Sarasota City Engineer Alexandrea Davis Shaw and Eric Summa, chief of the Environmental Branch of the USACE in Jacksonville, saying the requested material should be submitted within 30 days. If the FDEP did not receive a response within that time frame, the permit manager would contact DavisShaw and Summa, the letter added.

However, FDEP’s letter pointed out that if the applicants could demonstrate they “have been actively working on collecting or developing the requested information,” and they needed more time, they could request up to six additional months to submit their responses.

As SNL reported last month, the USACE has been working with FDEP on points related to its response to the RAI2.

During the February meeting of the Siesta Key Village Association, Peter van Roekens, chair of the board of Save Our Siesta Sand 2, reported that members of his organization — one of many on Siesta Key opposed to the dredging of Big Pass — have had numerous conversations with FDEP representatives. The state officials continued to say they expected the RAI2 response “within the next two weeks,” van Roekens added, “and that’s been going on now for several weeks.”

In the meantime, Sarasota County staff has not received any response yet to the Atkins firm’s peer review of the joint proposal of the City of Sarasota/USACE to undertake the project. Drew Winchester, a county spokesman, told SNL on Feb. 2 that Laird Wreford, the county’s coastal initiatives manager, indicated the city would be submitting a reply soon to county staff, but Wreford did not have an exact date. Atkins completed its final report to the county in late October.

Catherine Luckner, second vice president of the Siesta Key Association (SKA), reminded

about 70 of that organization’s members during their February meeting that she understood from her recent conversations with county employees that the effort to engage city staff in discussions is focused on determining whether any new factors could be made part of the permit application process. “There may be many ways for Lido to get help, and it doesn’t have to be to the detriment of us or [Lido residents],” she pointed out.

Because of the natural downdrift flow of sediment on the west coast of Florida, environmental engineers — including the Atkins team — have questioned the USACE proposal to remove about 775,000 cubic yards of sand from Big Pass’ channel and ebb shoal, which are south of Lido Beach, to replenish the Lido shoreline.

And in a related matter, Dee Ann Miller, a spokeswoman for the Florida Department of Environmental Catherine Luckner Vice President of the Protection (FDEP), Siesta Key Association wrote SNL an email last week, clarifying that the Atkins report will be “reviewed and considered as part of our overall permit application [process].

It will be treated as any public comment or 3rd party input.”

Miller added, “There are still not plans [to] respond or comment to the county.” good.” She also pointed out, Sarasota County Commission “When I say ‘SKA,’ I’m looking Chair Alan Maio — who represents out [at members in the audience].”

District 4, which includes Siesta Luckner further explained that Key — told members of the Siesta the SKA was the only organization Key Condominium Council to submit a letter to FDEP with at their Jan. 19 meeting that as concerns about the project during soon as county staff has received the mandatory 30-day comment responses it has requested from period provided after the USACE FDEP and the city, a public submitted its permit application discussion of the Atkins report on March 16, 2015. On April will be scheduled.

15, 2015, she continued, when Maio added that he expects FDEP issued its first Request for the Commission Chambers to be Additional Information (RAI1), full when that topic is addressed, some of the questions it posed because of the intense public were among those the SKA had interest. raised in its letter, Luckner noted.

The SKA, SOSS2 and other organizations, including the Many community Florida Wildlife Federation groups at work and the Suncoast Waterkeeper, During the February SKA have sent in subsequent letters meeting, Luckner explained that and comments, she added. because the proposal to dredge Nonetheless, she explained, FDEP Big Pass “was so scary in general, staff has made clear that, under there wasn’t a shortage of people the Florida Statutes with which getting a move on, including the department has to abide, us,” to oppose it after it was “the department [staff] cannot announced. ask any new questions,” only She continued, “There has been those related to the issues already just a huge public involvement” raised in the RAI1. among a number of organizations, Still, those other including the Siesta Key Chamber communications are important, of Commerce, the Siesta Key she stressed, because they remind Village Association, Save Our FDEP staff members that “they Siesta Sand 2 (SOSS2) and work for us.” She added, “They homeowners associations. The are the gatekeeper, [but] they are SKA was the first of those to hold our gatekeeper.” a public meeting on the project, Luckner also emphasized her she added. That December 2013 confidence in the Sarasota County session drew about 100 people.

Commission and staff, noting that In May 2015, SOSS2 hosted the County Commission each year a session that featured Robert compiles a list of its top priorities Young, director and professor for the Florida Legislature, and of coastal Geology at Western the county has made it clear it Carolina University in North continues to oppose any changes Carolina.

Young addressed in state law that would prevent it about 125 people as he explained from regulating wetlands, docks, problems he had found with the protection of natural resources USACE proposal. and coastal armoring. “That is “We have a lot of people our county speaking for us,” she keeping eyes on things,” Luckner said. continued during the February SKA meeting, “and that’s always

Tentative Date Scheduled for Atkins to Present to County Commissioners By Bob Stein On August 20, 2014, the Board of County Commissioners unanimously approved up to $50K funding to support an independent peer review of the most recent Army Corps of Engineers proposal. This followed a July 2014 budget hearing during which Siesta Key Association (SKA) requested the County fund such a project. The County selected Atkins North America from the Coastal Engineering Services Procurement Library to complete the review. The scope of work in the review was defined by any impact to the South Lido Ted Sperling County Park, Big Pass navigational channel and coastal environmental including Siesta Key beaches and property.

Atkins submitted the final report to staff on October 28, 2015. The Atkins Report poked numerous holes in the COE dredging plan. The County has received numerous inquiries from the public regarding when a presentation of the Atkins report will be provided to the Board of Commissioners (BCC). The Atkins contract includes a provision for a final report to the BCC. At time of press, Siesta Sand obtained an email from Sarasota County Government official, Matt Osterhoudt Sr., Manager Development Services and Environmental Protection to County Administrator Tom Harmer dated February 11, providing an overview of the current status of the Atkins Report.

Osterhoudt’s email stated, “FDEP [Florida Department of Environmental Protection] staff have informed us that their permitting staff have carefully reviewed the Atkins peer review report and have taken it into consideration. While the report

has not been specifically incorporated into their Requests for Additional Information (RAI), the report was taken into account. At this time, we do not have indication that the FDEP will be providing a written response to the County regarding the Atkins report.”

It continued, “City of Sarasota staff have informed us that they are working on a written response to the Atkins peer review report. From what we understand, they intend to provide a response approximately within the next two weeks that might help provide explanations and/or other perspectives that should be considered during the presentation by Atkins.”

“Regarding the presentation

by Atkins to the Board of County Commissioners, we have tentatively scheduled time on March 23, 2016 (North County meeting date in the afternoon session) as a Discussion Item.”

Catherine Luckner, Vice President of the Siesta Key Association responded to the information.

“What was encouraging to note is the FDEP did state they had staff review the Atkins Report and while it can’t be included in the RAI process, it is considered as relevant information,” Luckner stated.

Luckner went on to say, “The comments SKA submitted in the original letter to FDEP (regarding the COE permit application) included questions about design of the project itself, including the groin type and the benefit of it.

This is reiterated in the Atkins report. Our efforts to work the problem may eventually reap a better outcome of collaboration on the best way to help Lido while conserving our Big Pass environment and our down drift Siesta Key beaches.”

16 Siesta Sand

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941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Senor Siesta Restaurant: Not a Mexican Restaurant??

Tucked in the corner of the Village Plaza Shopping Center next to the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce and Café Gabbiano, Senor Siesta Restaurant enjoys its third season on Siesta Key. So what’s in a name? To some, the stereotype of Senor Siesta being Mexican is overwhelming and leads them to believe this restaurant serves Mexican food. In fact, Senor Siesta restaurant is not at all Mexican. To remind people, the daily menu board outside the restaurant indicates such and the owner gently (and sometimes not so gently) reminds people when asked.

If not Mexican food, then what kind of “Latin Cuisine” is served at this very popular mom and pop restaurant?

Well, the owner explains that his menu begins on the Iberian Peninsula and spans the nearly two dozen “Latin” countries of the Americas from Peru to Honduras, from Cuba to Puerto Rico, from Colombia to Brazil. He points to the “parent” flags of Spain and Portugal, inside the restaurant, and to all the “children” flags of Latin America hanging outside the restaurant as being indicative of Senor Siesta’s menu. It is quite unique for Sarasota and, in fact, for all of Southwest Florida. Typically, a restaurant may serve cuisine from one or two Latin countries. Senor Siesta is the only restaurant to serve food from more than a dozen Latin countries at any point in time.

Indeed, “Your Passport to Latin Cuisine” is not only Senor Siesta Restaurant’s advertising “jingle” but it is also reflective of the food and drink offered every evening.

For instance, you might begin your Latin culinary journey with a beer from Guatemala or an awardwinning Sangria from Spain to accompany your gluten-free Bollitos

Pelones from Venezuela or your Bacalhau from Portugal (and Brazil) or your Cuban Black Bean Soup.

Followed by your Carne Asada from Honduras or Lechon from Panama, your might indulge in a Columbian Enyucado (from yuca root and not a yucca plant…) dessert topped with a guava sauce reduction only to finish the evening with a semisweet, medium bodied tawny Port from Portugal. Meanwhile, your partner opens with a Ferran Adriainspired Beer (served in a wine glass) from Barcelona along with a scrumptious Peruvian Ceviche followed by a savory Pastelon from Puerto Rico and finishes with two scoops of mango ice cream and a tiny, but potent, Cuban Coffee (not often found in a Florida restaurant this side of a Cuban Café in Miami).

You both leave pleasantly surprised, bellies content, and in need of a short walk to burn off some of the calories…

By why no Mexican food? “That would be too easy”, tongue in cheek, says the Senor Siesta Chef who was classically trained in French cuisine but inspired most by his first chef instructor who was Mexican and owned a very popular authentic Mexican restaurant in New York City. “While he was Latin and taught me authentic (not TexMex) Mexican cuisine which I love, we decided to offer a broader Latin offering, from several countries, under one small roof coming out of one small kitchen. Hopefully, our size is more than compensated by the big flavors of our Latin cuisine… and the warmth and friendliness of our Latin service”. Buen Provecho.

Please call for reservations: 941-349-0818.

Located at 5110 Ocean Boulevard, Siesta Key. www.senorsiesta.com (Advertorial)

News Up & Down the Trail Free emergency notification service

Following the destructive tornados that struck the region in January, Sarasota County is urging residents to sign up for CodeRED, a free emergency notification service.

The CodeRED system allows people who sign up to receive calls, email alerts or text messages in the event of an emergency that could impact their neighborhood or business. Alerts include water or sewer interruptions, missing person alerts and major traffic detours, among others.

Sarasota County is also planning to soon add CodeRED’s Weather Warning service, which will automatically notify those registered of tornado, flash flood and severe thunderstorm warnings just minutes after an alert is issued by the National Weather Service.

Residents can register for CodeRED now to ensure they will have access to this essential preparedness tool when it becomes active.

CodeRED is available for free by visiting www.scgov.net and clicking the CodeRED registration under Emergency Services at the bottom of the page.

To register, you just need to enter your first and last name, physical address and primary phone numbers. For more information, call the Sarasota County Contact Center at 941-861-5000 and ask about CodeRED registration.

Coffee shop opens in Gulf Gate

The Gulf Gate commercial area welcomed a new coffee shop, The Clever Cup, which opened in January.

The Clever Cup is located at 6530 Gateway Ave., Sarasota. It was co-founded by local entrepreneurs Edgar de la O and Tracy de Chevron Villette, and serves local fair trade, organic coffee and espresso. Aside from the coffee and tea, the café serves pastries from Sift Bakehouse, a downtown bakery.

Aloft opens doors

Downtown Sarasota’s newest and hippest hotel is now open.

Located at 1401 Ringling Boulevard, the hotel is part of the One Palm project. The property has a total of 139 hotel rooms and 138 apartments.

By Roger Drouin

The property which began construction in March 2014 opened its doors to the public Thursday, Feb. 4.

The hotel features loft-like rooms with an urban-influenced design, and also includes an outdoor Splash pool, 24-hour fitness center, complimentary Wi-Fi and 550 square feet of flexible meeting space, ideal for both business meetings and social gatherings.

“We are delighted to partner with Starwood Hotels to bring the popular Aloft brand to Sarasota, a vibrant hub for arts and culture.

This stylish new Aloft hotel will give travelers a fresh, new option, while helping to meet the rising demand for high-caliber lodging in this fast-growing city,” said One Palm Managing Partner John Meshad, in a statement for the press.

“We’re thrilled to add Aloft Sarasota to our rapidly growing list of dynamic destinations in Florida, one of the brand’s fastest growing markets in the U.S.,” added Brian McGuinness, senior vice president, specialty select brands for Starwood.

County hires new historical resources manager

Sarasota County Administrator Tom Harmer said, “We were fortunate to be able to recruit someone of his caliber, and we look forward to the expertise he brings to the community.”

Bendus’ local ties are a great benefit, and will lead to collaboration and connection of organizational missions through common themes, said Libraries and Historical Resources director Sarabeth Kalajian said.

New president takes the reigns at Argus

The Argus Foundation welcomed incoming President Rod Hershberger at its 32nd annual meeting Jan. 21.

Hershberger, Chairman and CEO at PGT Industries, replaces outgoing President Joe R. Hembree, president of the commercial real estate firm Hembree & associates, as head of the Foundation.

He will serve a one-year term.

The Argus Foundation is a nonprofit organization established in Sarasota in 1983 that seeks to bring together local business leaders.

Longboat mansion sells for $7M

Sarasota County Libraries and Historical Resources has hired Robert F. Bendus as the new historical resources manager.

Bendus previously worked for the 12th Judicial Circuit of Florida and the Sarasota County Clerk of Court. Most recently, he served as director of the Division of Historical Resources in the Department of State, and as Florida State University’s Historic Preservation Officer. He is expected to start in March.

Bendus said that Sarasota County’s rich historical tapestry is what drew him to the position.

“Sarasota County is one of the most historically significant places in the country,” Bendus said in a press release. “I am excited about working with the community and the entire county team to promote this great history.”

Bendus has a bachelor’s degree in political science from Catholic University and a bachelor’s in history from Florida State University, where he is pursuing a doctorate in history.

A newly-constructed oceanfront home featuring five bedrooms, five-and-a-half bathrooms and a six-car garage, along with 151 feet of beach frontage, sold for $7 million in January.

The home located at 3475 Gulf of Mexico Drive, on the south end of Longboat Key, was built in 2014 and has 6,183-square feet of living area, according to the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office. The home has a pool and spa, and a six-car garage complete with golf cart storage.

The estate was designed by renowned Sarasota architect Mark Sultana and built by Sarasota builder of the year Voigt Brothers.

It is located on .58 acres.

The vacant property last sold in December, 2012 for $2.15 million as a building lot.

Office building sells downtown

The five-story PNC office building in downtown Sarasota sold this week for $15.9 million.

Continued on the next page

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17

Continued from the previous page

The buyer of the building, at 1549 Ringling Blvd., was Capstone Management LLC, according to court records.

The building is 82 percent occupied, with the fifth floor available for lease. The International Union of Police Associations and the Senior Information Center also occupy the building.

The seller, Mirsko Ringling Holdings LLC, bought the building in 2011 for $13.25 million, according to county property records.

The 55,221-square-foot building opened in 1983.

Last April, the five-story Ringling Square office-retail building across the street sold for $11.5 million.

Second Nancy’s Bar-B-Q opens in Lakewood Ranch

Nancy’s Bar-B-Q has opened a second location on Lakewood Ranch’s Main Street.

Nancy Krohngold’s new barbecue joint on Main Street in Lakewood Ranch, dubbed Li’l Nancy’s at the Ranch (8141 Lakewood Main St. #104), started serving customers Jan. 31.

Krohngold, owner of Nancy’s Bar-B-Q in downtown Sarasota, first purchased the new spot in Lakewood Ranch in April.

The barbecue guru originally planned to open in September but encountered some delays during construction.

Nancy’s Bar-B-Q is a popular restaurant downtown and does catering business across the region.

SPD reports card skimmers found

A device that steals credit card numbers, the second such discovered in a week, was found this morning at a gas station, the Sarasota Police Department reports.

The skimmer was found inside a pump at the Exxon at 1841 Tamiami Trail S. by store employees who noticed anti-

tampering tape was missing. It is unknown how long the device was there.

Police encourage people to check for anti-tampering tape when pumping gas and to notify station employees immediately if it is missing or damaged. People who have recently purchased gas from that station should monitor their bank accounts for unknown transactions, no matter how small, and notify their bank if something seems suspicious, police say.

Anyone with information is asked to call the Sarasota Police Department at 941-316-1199 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 941-366-8477.

Thieves steal $76,000 truck from dealership

These thieves came in the middle of the night with a flatbed truck.

The two thieves were caught on video stealing a pickup worth about $76,000 from a local car dealer in January by loading it onto a flatbed truck, the Sarasota Police Department reports.

On Jan. 30, two people drove a white flatbed truck into the parking lot of Sarasota Ford, 707 S. Washington Blvd. They worked quickly to load a white Ford F-450 onto the larger truck and drove off on Payne Parkway.

The crime was recorded by security cameras.

Anyone with information is asked to call Detective Darrell Nixon at 941-954-7078 or leave an anonymous tip with Crime Stoppers at 941-366-8477 or at www.sarasotacrimestoppers. com.

Top building official named

Sarasota County has hired a new building official. Kathleen Croteau, who joined Sarasota County in 2011 as the deputy building official, will serve as the new building official.

She has served as the county’s interim building official since September 2015.

The county building official is responsible for the administration and coordination of the Florida Building Code, including permit reviews and inspections for the Planning and Development

Services (PDS) department.

“We’re excited to have someone of Kathy’s extensive background and experience in both the public and the private sector working in this role,” County Administrator Tom Harmer said in a press release. “Kathy was selected after successfully competing in an extensive search process to fill this important position. As the current interim building official, Kathy’s appointment would allow for a smooth transition as we move forward.”

Croteau is vice president of the Gulf Coast Chapter of the Building Officials Association of Florida and is licensed as a state building code administrator, building plans examiner, building inspector and fire safety inspector.

Her previous work experience includes seven years with the City of Cape Coral as a building/ fire plans examiner, site and development coordinator and deputy building official.

From 1989-2004, she served as president of a structural steel and ornamental metals business.

Presidential Primary election coming up

It’s coming. Florida’s presidential primary is March 15th.

The deadline to register to vote or change political parties was Feb. 16, and Florida voters will express their preferences for the Democratic, Republican, and Libertarian parties’ respective nominees for President.

Registered members of each party may only vote in their party’s primary, while voters who are unaffiliated may choose any one primary in which to vote.

The 2016 United States presidential election in Florida will take place on November 8, 2016, as part of the 2016 General Election.

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Turtle Beach Park

Continued from cover story

The beach fronting the Gulf will be renourished as part of the county’s separate South Siesta Beach Renourishment Project.

That project will add 800,000 cubic yards of sand to two miles of beach. It will buffer the eroded shoreline that was initially nourished with a million cubic yards of sand in 2007.

Ondercin said.

Similar to a bio swale, the garden will be comprised of native Florida plants, such as: salt grass, sea purslane, marsh elder, marshhay cordgrass. In addition, white mangroves will be planted and help the rain garden blend naturally with the shoreline of Blind Pass Lagoon.

The rain garden

New kayak launch

In place of the old playground, the contractor will build a parking lot that will add 26 spaces to the park and three additional handicap parking spaces.

Adjacent and to the south of the new parking, crews will construct a rain garden. About 100 feet long, this shallow retention pond will be planted with native vegetation.

“It will look like a garden,”

A new kayak launch will be constructed. The new launch will be located on the northern edge of the lagoon, and will allow kayakers to launch their vessels separately from the park’s motorized boat launch.

Currently the boat launch serves motorized boats as well as kayaks and canoes. “While users get along, there are sometimes

safety concerns, especially if you are in a kayak at water level and a 32-foot power boat is trying to launch,” Ondercin said.

As a nice feature for paddlers, a kayak wash station will allow users to wash their kayaks and canoes.

Ongoing i mprovements

Contingent on funding, plans also call for a gazebo by the boat launch as part of the current improvement project. But that gazebo is an alternate, and if it is not funded as part of the initial phase of construction, will be built during a later phase of improvements, Ondercin said.

The bathroom at the park was renovated several years ago as a capital project.

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www.siestasand.net

March 2016

By Robert Frederickson

The lure of the shiny new UTC Mall proved to be just too enticing for Jackie Zumba to resist. So the owner of Jackie Z. Style Company left her downtown Sarasota location behind in late 2014 and made the move east to the brand spanking new $310 million mall east of town.

Gone would be worries about ample parking for her fashion boutique customers. Forgotten, the growing problem of an increasing homeless population aggressively hitting up those customers for handouts...

Retail nirvana with easy access to I-75...

But for Zumba, only one thing turned out to be missing: customers. According to a report in the Herald Tribune, the young entrepreneur cited a ‘lack of foot traffic and sales’ for her decision to pack up her inventory and move out of the joint Benderson/ Taubaum developed property this past October.

In response, mall management filed suit early this year against Zumba seeking damages of $1.52 million. The suit listed the terms of Zumba’s original agreement, which reportedly included $105,000 per year in rent and $54,000 in shared common area charges for a period of seven years. That comes to $13,250 per month for the roughly 2000 square feet of retail space Zumba had occupied. Yikes!

By that measure, perhaps the parking and homeless problems downtown aren’t so bad after all...

Thank You Sir, May I Have Another?

Speaking of panhandling downtown, the activity is no longer a crime in the City of Sarasota. Caving to pressure from the ACLU in the misguided hope of heading off additional lawsuits (and perhaps settling one already underway) city commissioners have adopted a strategy any eight year-old who has ever faced a bully on the playground knows is doomed to certain failure: namely, trying

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Could I get some Fries with my Gator?

Joshua James, 23, wanted to play a prank on a friend working the night shift at a Wendy’s restaurant near his home in Palm Beach County.

His bright idea? Throw a live, three-foot long alligator through the drive through window.

“He’s a prankster,” his mom said. “He thinks stuff like this is funny.” The friend, other restaurant employees and especially the cops didn’t see the humor. James was booked on charges of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon.

The gator was released to a nearby canal (...with quite the ‘tale’ to tell one would suppose).

Only in Florida...

A Different Kind of Parking Problem Downtown

A rash of car burglaries so far this year has added a new dimension to the parking woes downtown. Just finding a spot used to be the goal, now it’s finding a parking spot and returning later to finding your car hasn’t been broken into.

Bernie and the Billionaires

The top three finishers in the Republican primary in New Hampshire were the three candidates who spent the least money. So much for the argument that candidates are able to buy votes and corrupt the political system in the process. Those railing against the Citizens United decision by the Supreme Court a few years back consistently underestimate the good sense of the average citizen to see through false, misleading arguments or disingenuous politicians no matter how much money is aligned behind them, a lesson Hillary also learned in New Hampshire, but which will likely remain forever lost on socialist

candidate Bernie Sanders, who has actually surpassed Hillary in fundraising efforts in recent weeks (…how Bourgeoisie!)

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

New guidelines under consideration by the Florida legislature could mean a drastic reduction in the number of inmates on Florida’s death row.

A simple majority among jurors in a death penalty case is all that is currently required to sentence a defendant to death.

But proposed changes could require a unanimous decision moving forward.

Now if that was the case in the past, consider some of the well-known lowlifes who would still be with us. The list includes the smooth talking and charming serial killer Ted Bundy, as well as the somewhat less dashing, but no less cold blooded killer Danny Rolling.

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A Lesson in Understatement

After 11 of Manatee County’s schools received Ds and another eight scored Fs on the district’s latest state report card, Deputy Superintendent Cynthia Saunders, had this to say...

“We have some room for improvement.”

Ya think?

Meantime, An Overdue Assignment in Sarasota

Meanwhile, the Sarasota County School district maintained its high academic rating with the state, but failed its requirement that all district employees undergo background checks every five years.

According to the latest state auditor’s general report, 45 of 80 audited employees had not undergone the required five-year background check.

The district’s “the dog ate my homework excuse?” Not enough money. This despite citizen approved referendums that have consistently provided the district with a level of funding that is the envy of virtually every other school district in the state.

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20 Siesta Sand

March 2016

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Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Above: Emmet age 14, Kate age 17, Kevin age 16 from NY Left: Emmet (14), Kate (17), Kevin Jr (16), Therese, Kevin from NY, Charleen and Jack from Venice

Off Islands Target Practice

Early last month a pedestrian, William Chamberland, was crossing at one of Longboat Keys’ crosswalks – one of the new ones with flashing lights.

He pressed the button, the lights flashed, he started crossing and was then thrown 38 feet from the crosswalk by a 71 year-old driver. There might have been a number of contributing factors to this accident – age, speed, sun in the eyes, looking out while crossing, tunnel vision, etc., but one factor stands out.

A bit over a week before the accident, a number of Longboat Key officials told the Florida Department of Transportation that the flashing white lights were not sufficient to slow down the Gulf of Mexico Drive traffic.

The FDOT’s response was that the amount of foot traffic did not warrant flashing red lights.

I am not sure what the cost differential is between red and white lights but I think the FDOT will be installing red ones pretty soon.

Want to donate $675,000 to your favorite charity?

Every so often the State of Florida (FDOT) takes a heap of money (our state taxes) and throws it up in the air to see where it lands. No, not throw it up in the air; that would be wasteful. Instead they count cars.

Yes, this year they propose to spend about $540,000 of Florida taxpayer funds to do a seasonal “Counting of the Cars.” And

By Rodger Skidmore they would really appreciate it if David Hutchinson of the Sarasota-Manatee Metropolitan Planning Organization would kick-in another $135,000 (of our local taxes) to fully fund the study. After all, we have to know where the cars are so we will know where to put in the parking meters.

All joking aside, knowing where cars are, where they go, and when they go there, is useful for tourist oriented cities and counties. But this type of study has been done many, many times before. Can’t we just copy what they’ve done and have some Shriners or off-duty firemen count cars when they shake their boots while asking for money at various intersections? They would probably do the study for a lot less money and would feel a sense of civic pride at the same time. This way the money would stay local instead of being paid to some out-of-county/ state consulting company. The FDOT would probably want the recipient of all these tax dollars to be a real corporation so why not create a company called Off-Duty Firemen Not Wasting Your Tax Dollars, Inc. and have them bid for the job and see what happens?

George Orwell lives

In the novel 1984 George Orwell had the dictators twist the meanings of words to get what they wanted. They wanted war, so said they were waging peace, etc. Turns out that is not just the standard language in Washington, D.C. but for the

legal system in Florida (Statute 75) as well.

The Longboat Key town commission is going to be issuing over $25 million in bonds later this year to pay for the burying (undergrounding, in Orwell speak) of telephone and other utility lines which currently block anyone on Longboat Key from having an unobstructed view of the sky. The Town Attorney, Maggie MooneyPortale, has notified the town commission that a Validation Complaint hearing will take place on March 24 about the issuance of the bonds.

One would think that the town would not want any complaints about the issuance of the bonds, and here they are asking that any complaints that are made, be validated.

Actually the town of LBK does not want any complaints about the bond issue so, before the bonds are issued and people complain about them, they have a hearing to see if there are any valid complaints. If not, they know they can issue the bonds. If there had been a valid complaint voiced after the bonds were issued, it would be very costly to rescind those bonds. Now, if there is a valid complaint after the issuance (when people are actually paying attention) lawyers can say Sorry - you should have brought that point up during the Validation Complaint hearing. The upshot is that if no one complains now, they won’t be able to complain later and the bonds will be issued.

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Siesta Key Resident Charlotte Marin is a Marine Biologist, founder of Mermaid Swim School and Floridita Swimwear.

Her swimwear is proving to be very popular with locals. Our back page Island Girl Krystal Lee is modeling several of Marin’s designs.

Marin designs and produces her handmade, luxury bathing suits in beautiful patterns and colors, all handsomely studded with embroidery and beading.

See her complete line at: www.floriditaswimwear.com.

Healthy Beginnings As a chiropractor, I offer patients a new beginning at health.

This last week alone I saw several new patients who barely understood what chiropractic is and what a chiropractor does.

Most think chiropractors crack backs and they might possibly feel better. Chiropractic is about much more than feeling better; you can feel great and have cancer growing in your body.

I had two patients that came into my office this week both with cancer. One had been to another chiropractor who never even x-rayed her. An x-ray is a map of the body showing the chiropractor where to adjust and where not to adjust. Both had no insurance, tons of medical bills, and are facing severe health challenges.

It would have been great if they understood prior to getting sick that it is not about feeling better or about getting rid of the cancer now. Rather, it is about never getting the cancer in the first place.

It is not about the stress ruining their health or about stress creating a bunch of symptoms that the doctor will eventually make more diagnoses for. It is about how well their body can cope or adapt to the stress.

Stress, like germs, will always be there. Sure, we should reduce or limit the amount of stress but it will never go away completely.

Part of my job is to educate my patients so they understand the importance of shifting their focus to increasing the body’s resiliency or ability to handle the stress… that is true HEALTH care. That is what chiropractic is about.

When you get a chiropractic adjustment, you remove pressure on the nerves to your heart, liver, spleen, ovaries, bladder, every organ in your body begins to get full expression of life. Most of us have never been checked for a pinched nerve or pressure on our nervous system, most of us do not understand that by the time you get neck pain, back pain, or cancer these are just symptoms the body is functioning at less than 50% and the problem has been there for months or years. Or you go to a chiropractor who does not take films, adjust you once and sends you on your way with no help to the true cause, no spinal correction, and no solution.

Spinal correction takes time, much like how braces on the teeth is used to correct the alignment of the teeth. You could wear braces for one day but you will not get the desired change. The same is true if you receive only one adjustment or sporadic adjustments; you

may leave feeling better, but you did not correct the pinched nerve.

When you receive regular adjustments, over time, your body will work more efficiently since each adjustment builds on the next. Just as you would not tell the dentist to only do half of the braces for now and see how it works. Instead, you would wear the braces for the full recommended period of time to correct and straighten your teeth; getting what you paid for.

Chiropractic is the one true profession that can help dispel the myths and decrease the feelings of hopelessness against named diseases like cancer.

The public lives in fear. It takes understanding of how the body heals and functions to overcome the fear and realize the best doctor in the world is the one inside each and every one of us. The best doctor inside of you is your brain and spinal cord; these have an ability to give life to our entire body allowing the body to heal and function.

When you remove the pressure off the pinched nerve the body can begin to heal and function like it is supposed to. The body can then adapt to stressors in our environment and build its own natural immunity to threats that can stress the body.

As a chiropractor, I remove the pressure off the pinched nerve allowing the body to heal.

Everything else is between you and God. SK Island Wellness 5700 Midnight Pass, Suite #2, Siesta Key, FL 34242 Phone: 941.343.8555 Email SKIslandWellness@gmail.com Dr. Jenn Kauffman has personally mentored thousands of women and men over the last 10 years as a chiropractor. She has owned three separate and very distinct successful chiropractic clinics. She’s been coaching her patients on how to transform their lives and feels it is her life mission to grow women of the world to have a truly passionate life and live the life of their dreams, whatever that may be for the individual.

(Advertorial)

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

VILLAGE MAP pgs 22 - 23

ACCOMMODATIONS PAGE 42

GULF GATE SHOPS pg 28-29

CRESCENT BEACH MAP pg 24

LOCAL MAPS INSIDE

LIVE MUSIC PAGE 26

21

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

Siesta Key Drum Circle Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Hailey, Morgan, Kelsey, Grace, Elizabeth, Riley, Emily from MO

Emily, Riley, Elizabeth, Grace, Kelsey, Morgan, Hailey from MO

Every Sunday is a perfect time to come to the Key to reconnect with Mother Nature and to enjoy 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 Credit: David Gould

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

22 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Boulevard Buzz New owners of the 7-Eleven property looking for the right new tenant; discussions continuing on the future of the 162 Beach Road parcel; more details available about the grand opening of the renovated Siesta Beach Park; Easter Egg Hunt volunteers needed; the County Commission chair lets his sense of humor shine; and the Condo Council will meet again next week Longtime Siesta Village property owners Jim Syprett and Jay Lancer of Sarasota have added a new parcel to their holdings: the 10,293-square-foot site where the 7-Eleven stood for about 15 years at 5232 Ocean Blvd.

The two paid $1.6 million for the property, closing on Jan. 19, according to records of the Sarasota County Property Appraiser’s Office.

The Southland Corp. in Dallas, Texas — the corporate home of 7-Eleven Food Stores — bought the parcel in November 1990, the tax records show.

In a Feb. 3 telephone interview, Syprett told me he and Lancer have not reached a decision yet on what will take the place of the convenience store.

“Basically, we are talking with a number of potential tenants,” Syprett added. “It’ll

Jacob age 6 & Clara age 3, Rebecca from GA

S I M P LY R AWSOM E !

St Armands Siesta Key Island of Venice St Armands Island of Venice KeyAve 325 John Ringling Blvd 5250 Ocean Blvd 300Siesta West Venice

325 John Ringling Blvd Sarasota, FL 34236 Sarasota, FL 34236 941-388-3325 941-388-3325

300 West Venice Ave Sarasota, FL 34242 Venice, FL 34285 941-349-8697 941-488-0649

5250 Ocean Blvd Venice, FL 34285 Sarasota, FL 34242 941-488-0649 941-349-8697

Map B #42

Find current specials and promotions at DaiquiriDeck.com

Delicious Daiquiris, Seafood and So Much More!

Find current specials and promotions at DaiquiriDeck.com

Map C #61

ACCOMMODATIONS Siesta Beach Resort .......................Map-A #38A ART GALLERY / STUDIO Calle Studios ........................................Map-B #32 The Gallery on Siesta Key .................Map-D #11 ATM / BANKS PNC ATM............................................ Map-C #61 Martin Funding .....................................Map-E #1 Sun Trust Bank & ATM ........................Map-E #4 BARS & NIGHTCLUBS Aaron’s Fish Camp ............................ Map-C #57 Blase Café ............................................Map-A #38 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 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 Beach Bazaar & Swin Shack .......... Map-C #28 Blvd. Beachwear ................................. Map-B #30 Comfort Shoes-Birki & More.........Map-D #64 Everything But Water ....................... Map-D #12 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 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 Island Trader.......................................Map-C #51 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 Kids ........................................... Map-B #36 HEALTH & FITNESS Indep. Lifestyle Solutions ............... Map-D #10 Siesta Key Fitness .............................Map-B #73 Studio Rubylake...............................Map-D #10 ICE CREAM/TREATS Big Olaf Creamery..............................Map-C #52 Ciao Gelato ..........................................Map-C #50 Meany’s Mini Donuts ........................ Map-C #24 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 JEWELRY Created Gems .....................................Map-C #51 Michael & Co. Jewelers ..................... Map-B #29 Mount - N - Repair Jewelers ............ Map-D #62 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

By Rachel Brown Hackney - SarasotaNewsLeader.

The 7-Eleven store stands vacant on Ocean Boulevard while new owners Jay Lancer search for the right tenant. Sarasota News Leader

be something that is consistent with our other properties that we own.”

Among those other properties are the Daiquiri Deck, the Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar, Siesta Key Oyster Bar and Gidget’s Coastal Provisions.

Gidget’s, which opened on March 24, 2014, stands on the former site of Napoli’s Italian Restaurant, which moved up the street to the Key Corners plaza.

“It’s just a matter tenant,” Syprett poin Asked if they wou another restaurant replied, “It would ha than the Daiquiri Dec Oyster Bar.” Finally, retail of some sort; i predict.”

Syprett also point there so long, [the V

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

23

.com

s Jim Syprett and photo

r of finding the right nted out. uld consider opening in the Village, he ave to be so different ck and the Siesta Key , he said, “It will be it’s very difficult to

ted out, “We’ve been Village is] like home

into possibilities for the site, its parking lot is proving quite useful.

Lisa Cece, the special district coordinator in the county’s Transportation and Real Estate departments who oversees Village maintenance for the county, noted after the Feb. 2 Siesta Key Village Association (SKVA) meeting that four vehicles were in front of the empty 7-Eleven store when she passed by it that morning. “We’ll take whatever [parking spaces] we can get,” she said with a laugh.

get our eggs ordered,” SKVA President Wendall Jacobsen of Beach Bazaar told the members present for the organization’s Feb. 2 meeting.

“Please join us; it’s fun,” Jacobsen said, adding that volunteers are certainly welcome.

Volunteers will fill the eggs and goody bags for the event on Saturday March 26 at Beach Access 5. Anyone interested in helping with this event contact Roz at 941-284-4381.

Help wanted

Gidget’s Coastal Provisions 5242 Ocean Blvd.

to us, and you take care of your home.”

Syprett and Lancer have been investing in Siesta Key properties since the early 1990s, Syprett told me.

He gives all the credit to Lancer — whom he says is very patient — for making this latest deal possible. “It was well over a year,” Syprett noted, between the start of the negotiations and the conclusion.

While Syprett and Lancer are looking

The Siesta Key Village Association held a meeting on Feb. 10, to begin planning for the 15th annual Easter Egg Hunt & Games, which it will host on Saturday, March 26, at Beach Access 5.

As SKVA Treasurer Roz Hyman has pointed out, the event is so popular families already have begun registering their children for it.

Each participating youngster — ages 1 to 6 — receives a stuffed animal and a goody bag “stuffed with prizes,” the SKVA website notes, offering a link to the sign-up sheet. “[We need to] get the ball rolling;

color of her rental car. An officer found it four spots down from where she thought she had left it, Mruczek added, “with dust all over it.”

A second incident apparently involved a trick one person was playing on another, he said.

Siesta Fiesta will continue

The Siesta Fiesta will continue in 2016 with a few changes. Ocean Blvd. will not be closed to car traffic, as was done in past years. The setup for vendors will mirror February’s Craft Fair, with booths lining the sidewalks.

This change is a result of complaints received from area businesses objecting to signs posted stating Ocean Blvd. was closed.

The dates set for this year are April 9 & 10.

And a little more on the light side

When Sarasota County Sheriff’s Sgt. Jason Mruczek offered his report during the February Siesta Key Village Association meeting, he said the cold weather last month “kind of slowed things down,” so officers were not as busy as usual for that time of year on the Key. No real crime trend had been observed, he continued. However, Mruczek explained that deputies recently investigated two reports about stolen vehicles. In one case, it turned out the female complainant had forgotten the

Introducing a new line...

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MARKETS/FOOD STORES Circle K Store ........................................ Map-E #6 Morton’s 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 Siesta Dental ......................................Map-B #49 MISCELLANEOUS Chamber of Commerce .................... Map-D #67 Relics on the Key................................Map-D #9 Roberti Enterprises ........................... Map-A #39 Tarot Card Reading & Gifts ..............Map-C #50 PROFESSIONAL SERVICES Edward Jones Investments .............. Map-D #68 Smith Architects ................................. Map-E #74 REAL ESTATE / RENTAL SERVICES Ascendia Real Estate ......................... Map-D #11 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 Waterfront 7 Realty ............................Map-C #56 Waterside Realty ................................Map-C #29 RESTAURANTS / CAFES 314 II, Craft Beer board Room .......... Map-A #37 Aaron’s Fish Camp ............................Map-C #57 Another Broken Egg .................Map-C #54 & 55 Blase Café ........................................... Map-A #38 Boardwalk Eats & Sweets ...............Map-D #16 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 Deli ................................... Map-A #37 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 The Panini Place ............................... Map-C #53 Village Café .......................................Map-D #14 SPAS - HAIR & BEAUTY LaPlaya Spa .........................................Map-C #50 Salon Capelli ........................................ Map-D #9 Sassy Hair Salon............................... Map-A #40 Siesta Key Nails & Spa .....................Map-D #9 SPORTS INTEREST/RENTALS CaliFlorida........................................... Map-B #32 Robin Hood Rentals ........................Map-D #34 Siesta Village Outfitters .....................Map-C #53

Monthly Meetings

SKVA meetings are held the first Tuesday of each month at the Daiquiri Deck Raw Bar. Meetings begin at 8:30 a.m. anyone interested in learning more about Siesta Key Village is encouraged to attend. For more information visit their website: www.siestakeyvillage.org.

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Organic and fair trade coffees and teas Organic smoothies Map D #11 Fresh pressed juice Light lunch (salads & sandwiches) Breakfast sandwiches Bagels and lox Cold brewed coffee Local pastries Gluten free snacks doTERRA Essential Oils

5138 Ocean Blvd., Siesta Key, FL 34242

941-346-8000

www.localbeansiestakey.com

Organic and fair trade coffees and teas Organic smoothies Fresh pressed juice Light lunch (salads & sandwiches) Breakfast sandwiches Bagels and lox Cold brewed coffee Local pastries Gluten free snacks doTERRA Essential Oils

5111 Blvd, Ste B, Siesta Key, FL 34242 34242 5219Ocean Avenida Navarra,

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Pilates/Yoga/Dance Studio • Group classes Pilates • Zen yoga • Zumba • Erotica fitness Rubylake Passport: (Zumba, erotica fitness, Pilates, yoga bootcamp)

Sunset Fusion:

(Pilates & Yoga on Siesta Beach)

Private Pilates Reformer and Equipment Training Paddleboard fitness Bosu Cardio and Core bootcamp Yoga with Essential Oils workshop

Courtney Kees / www.studiorubylake.com

March 2016

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 Nutritious You ........................................ C-3 #14 The Beach Deli @ Crescent Beach Grocery .....B-3 #1 DRUG STORES Davidson’s Drugs..................................... C-3 #14 FASHION & ACCESSORIES CB’s Island Outfitters ............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters ....................... A-3 #4 Coconuts Fashion .....................................B-3 #1 Coconuts / Island Colors .........................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Swimwear ........................ C-3 #14 Key Casual Fashions .............................. D-3 #17

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

CRESCENT BEACH SHOP INDEX

Things You Like ..................................... C-3 #14 GIFTS & SOUVENIRS Capt. Curt’s Souvenirs ............................B-3 #8 Green Turtle Shells & Gifts ................ C-3 #14 The Silversmith ...................................... D-3 #17 Silver City Jewelry ................................. C-3 #14 HEALTH & BEAUTY Lorraine’s Beauty & Barber ....................B-3 #8 Salon Siesta.............................................. D-3 #17 Siesta Key Salon & Spa .......................... C-3 #14 The Key Spa & Salon ............................. A-5 #12 ICE CREAM & TREATS Orange Octopus .......................................B-3 #8 INTERNET / WiFi SERVICES Davidson’s Drugs................................... C-3 #14 Mail Pack Center ................................... C-3 #14 LIQUOR STORES Crescent Beach Grocery ..........................B-3 #1 Crescent Club...........................................B-3 #13 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 Morgan Properties ...................................B-3 #8 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

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 Toasted Mango Cafe .............................. C-3 #17 Miguel’s Restaurant ............................... C-3 #17 Munchies ................................................. C-3 #17 WATER SPORTS - FISHING - RENTALS A to Z Beach & Bike Rentals ................. A-5 #12 CB’s Island Outfitters ............................. A-3 #2 CB’s Saltwater Outfitters ....................... A-3 #4 Parasail Siesta ........................................... A-3 #2 Siesta Key Bike & Kayak .......................B-3 #8 Siesta Key Marina .................................... A-4 #5 Siesta Key Parasailing.............................. A-4 #5 Siesta Sports Rentals .............................. A-3 #2 Siesta Sports Rentals ............................ C-3 #14 Waves Boat & Social Club..................... A-5 #12

Big Water Fish Market ...............................C-3 #17

“Home of the Orange Squeeze!”

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welcome!

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GERMAN BAKERY & CAFE

© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012

German café offering fresh soups and sandwiches on freshly baked breads!

Rum Cakes Breakfast Lunch German Beers and Brats

941-346-1800 • www.ATasteofGermany.net 6575 Midnight Pass Rd., Siesta Key (South of Stickney Pt.)

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

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941.349.0194

Puppy Love 2016 Iconic 80’s TV star, Judy Landers and her two daughters, Lindsey and Kristy and Mrs. Shigemi Higgs hosted the event that benefitted Satchel’s Last Resort Animal Shelter & Sanctuary. The event was held at the Village Café located at 5133 Ocean Blvd, in Siesta Key Village on February 6. A donation of $45 included a buffet, wine and

March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

25

By Trebor Britt

beer, a raffle, silent auction and live entertainment. The Village Café donated 100% of the food and time for this charitable event.

Satchel’s Last Resort provides lifelong shelter to dogs and cats deemed unadoptable, a nurturing environment, training for all dogs, and offer temporary shelter to adoptable dogs and cats whose

owners can no longer care for them. Satchel’s Last Resort believe all dogs and cats are created equal and deserve to live the life of a beloved pet. If you are interested in adopting or being a foster parent, please go to their website: www.satchelslastresort.org.

Jennifer Hurd is holding a little one-year-old Chihuahua named Luna who was hit by a car and left on the side of the road to die. Satchels rescued Luna and Hurd is fostering her. Hurd said, “As a foster parent I take a dog into my home, rehabilitate them, care for them, give them their medicine, walk them and feed them.”

Handmade Antique Rugs Above: Former Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher, Tom Niedenfuer and his wife, iconic 80’s TV star, Judy Landers stand between longtime friends and Village Café owners Tom and Kay Kouvatsos who donated the location and all the food, wine and beer for the fundraising event in Siesta Key Village.

Bought and Sold

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

Mosby oriental rugs

941-925-1025 by appointment

www.antiqueorientalrugs.com Left: Maria Shay of Siesta Key, delighted to be with her rescued dog Reva. Shay became a lifetime supporter of Satchels after connecting with them while volunteering at the Sarasota Humane Society. Satchels took in a dog deemed unadoptable and said if they were unable to find someone to adopt her she would live the rest of her days at Satchels.

State Certified General Contractor

• Porch Enclosures • Parts • Repair •

• HURRICANE WINDOWS •

ALSO AVAILABLE...

IMPACT ENERGY STAR RATED

921-1113

492-5200 1955 S. Trail, Venice

5330 Ashton Ct., Sarasota

Since 1969 • www.wilson-window.com

YUM, GUM! Above: Kristy Landers Niedenfuer holding “one-eyed” Phoenix, a three year old Shih Tzu/Poodle mix rescued by Satchels.

A witness saw the dog tossed out of a car in Sarasota.

The dog was picked up by Sarasota Animal Control and taken to an emergency vet who had to remove the dogs severely injured eye.

Left: Satchels founder and Board President, Page Knoebel pleased with the results of their event to benefit Satchel’s Last Resort Animal Shelter & Sanctuary.

Knoebel related, “The biggest thing that Satchels has done is shown me how big the heart can be.”

We never used to recommend or discuss chewing gum. In fact we discouraged it because it “pulled out” fillings and crowns, etc.

But we’ve learned a few things. First...that gum never “pulls” out acceptable fillings or crowns, only those that really needed to be changed anyhow. And we learned that chewing gum helps to stimulate saliva and moisten the mouth and teeth. As our population grows older we find that many of us have to take medications that dry up the mouth which is leading to increased decay and gum disease. Also many of us are not as dexterous as we once were. And we have gums that are sweetened with Xylitol that inhibits cavity producing microorganisms and neutralizes acids these microorganisms produce.

So for many of our patients, young and old, we now actively recommend using gum with Xylitol right after eating and at least twice a day.

It’s easier to prevent oral disease than treat it. And it’s far less costly.

Palmer Ranch Dental Richard J. Greenspan DDS

8800 S. Tamiami Trail Sarasota, Florida 34238

Call Today For An Appointment!

941-966-5603

www.palmerranchdental.com

26 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Who’s Playing Tonight

By Mike Sales

|An interview with Joey Lavallee Joey Lavallee is a living example of that dream you may experience, while on vacation in a seaside tropical climate, watching someone play music and thinking, “wow, it must be awesome to just do what you love for a living.”

His professional progression proves him to be the real deal; the guy who moved here, looked around, decided he’d prefer to play music for a living and then made it happen.

While Joey’s rock and blues influences keep his performances invigorated, it’s his attention to the styles that blend with the surroundings that make him a perfect soundtrack for a tropical evening in the Village, whether dancing or just enjoying the music.

WPT: When did you start playing music?

Joey Lavallee: I started playing guitar when I was 18 years old and picked up vocals later on when I was about 23.

WPT: Did you have training?

Joey Lavallee: I studied guitar in Hollywood at the Musician’s Institute.

WPT: How did you wind up on Siesta Key? Joey Lavallee: Just on a whim, I came down with a friend. She got homesick and I decided to stay here.

WPT: How did you get into the music scene here?

Joey Lavallee: I had always wanted to do it, but I got a late start. After moving here I went to jam sessions and worked on developing the songs and the style I play now.

WPT: Where are you originally from?

Joey Lavallee: Lewiston, Maine.

WPT: What are some of your musical influences?

Joey Lavallee: In high school, I was a heavy metal kid, but I got turned on to Stevie Ray Vaughan when I was 18. From there, my musical tastes really expanded to the point that I even started liking music I’d thought was “sissy” music when I was a kid.

Later on, when I began playing professionally, I got the chance to work with and learn from an incredible saxophone player named Mike MacArthur. I got a really good education from him in Jazz, even though I don’t play Jazz, but I learned about some phenomenal musicians. So now, my appreciation has evolved to include many different styles. I’d say that Stevie Wonder is one of my current favorites.

CLUB AARON'S FISH CAMP In the Village 941‐346‐0738

WPT: How would you describe your style of playing?

Joey Lavallee: I would say that my solo gigs are a variety, ranging from Bob Marley to Motown, Blues and James Taylor because a versatile song list works the best for the gigs that I get, but my guitar playing is fairly Blues based.

WPT: What is your favorite thing about playing music for a living?

Joey Lavallee: Before music, I did ornamental ironwork and was miserable working a day job. I knew there was something else. I had a love of music and made a committed effort to make it my career. I’ve had times of second-guessing my decision when bookings slowed down, like maybe I should have gone back to college and at times I’ve picked up some ironwork during the day in order to keep playing at night, but at the end of the day, this is cool. Music is all I’m doing at the present time. I get to make my own schedule and meet some amazing characters, fellow musicians especially, which I like and I can wake up late, which is good for me. Sometimes, when the bookings aren’t there the earnings can get meager, but when its season and people are tipping it can be a really good living and very rewarding to pursue my passion.

WPT: Do you write songs?

Joey Lavallee: Yes, I write all of the time, in fact I co-wrote a bunch of songs with Greg Paulus and Kathy Perez and they ask me when they can hear me play some of them live. I tell them they can hear Dana Lawrence singing one of them, but so far I prefer to play covers at the gigs.

Joey Lavallee

WPT: Where do you see your career going in the future?

Joey Lavallee: I’d like to continue what I’m doing, and fill in the calendar with more band and duo gigs. My goals now are to get a set schedule established and get some stability with respect to my income so I can focus more on the music than the money.

Ultimately, I’d like to start booking gigs where I only play originals.

You can keep up with Joey Lavallee on Facebook and watch for him on upcoming Siesta Sand Newspaper entertainment schedules.

Mike Sales is a local singer/songwriter for more information log onto mikesalessings.com

Enjoy our cadre of outstanding musicians

LIVE MUSIC SCHEDULE MONDAY

5:30 ‐9:30pm‐Marcel

BLASE CAFÉ

In the Village 941‐349‐9822

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

WPT: How long did it take you to get gigs?

Joey Lavallee: I was big into Blues, as I still am so I mostly went to Blues Jam’s and wasn’t singing much, just playing guitar. It took me about 7 or 8 years before I started getting gigs as a solo which has pretty much sustained me ever since.

WPT: How often do you play every week?

Joey Lavallee: I have weekly scheduled gigs and get work from calls to fill in. I also recently started playing duo gigs with Bain Beakley and have started filling the calendar with that too.

Scott Curts (3‐7pm)

TUESDAY

5:30 ‐9:30pm Tommy D. Live Music 6‐10pm Billy Lyon (3‐7pm)

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

5:30 ‐9:30pm O’Zwald Caines

5:30 ‐9:30pm Live Music

5:30 ‐9:30pm Live Music

5:30 – 9:30pm Live Music

1‐5pm Georgia & Mike 5:30‐9:30pm ‐ Marcel

Live Music 6‐10pm

Live Music 6‐10pm

Live Music (6‐10pm)

Live Music 6‐10pm

Live Music 6 ‐10pm

Miles Bosworth (3‐7pm) DJ Crawford (10pm) Acoustic Pete 1‐5pm Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am Eddie James Jazz Band 6‐10pm Dana & Co 2‐6pm Mike Tozier 8pm – 12am Live Band 8 –11pm DJ 11pm‐2am

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

Noel Harris (3‐7pm)

Kevin Thompson (3‐7pm) DJ Crawford (10pm) RPM 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am Acoustic Open Mic w/ Nally & Egglefield 6‐10pm

Spark Notes (3‐7pm) DJ TJ (10pm)

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

Berry Oakley’s Skylab 7‐11pm

TGIM

Kettle of Fish 9pm‐midnight

DJ Rev Kev 10pm – 2am

Live Band 8/9pm‐Midnight

THE COTTAGE

Live Music 6‐9pm

Live Music 6‐9pm

Live Music 6‐9pm

Live Music 7‐10pm

Live Music 7‐10pm

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 Noon – 3pm

Live Music Noon – 3pm

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

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

Live Music Noon – 3pm

Karaoke 9pm – 1am

Karaoke 9pm – 1am

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

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 SNIKI TIKI @ CAPT CURTS Crescent Beach Shops 941‐349‐3885 Turtle Beach Grill Southern end of SK 941‐349‐3839

BOATYARD BAR & GRILL Over the South Bridge 941‐921‐6200

SAND DOLLAR POOL BAR @ Best Western Plus 6600 S. Tamiami Trl. Sarasota 941‐924‐4900

3:30 – 6:30pm, 7‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

3:30 – 6:30pm, 7‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

3:30 – 6:30pm, 7‐10pm

Karaoke 9pm ‐1am LIVE MUSIC 6‐10pm

941‐966‐1901

Swamp Donkie 2‐6pm

Rising Tide 8pm – 12am Live Band 8 – 11pm DJ 11‐2am

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

3:30 – 6:30pm, 7‐10pm

LIVE MUSIC 3 ‐ 6pm

LIVE MUSIC 3 ‐ 6pm

Andres Collin 5‐9pm

Larry Williams 5‐9pm

(Reggae Music)

Democracy 4‐8pm

Mike Sales 3 – 6 PM

Live Music 4‐8pm

Live Music 3‐7pm

Live Music 3‐7pm

CASEY KEY FISH HOUSE 801 Blackburn Pt. Rd, Osprey

Live Music 6‐10pm DJ 10pm – 2am

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

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Island Humor [ A young lady stops by her grandmother’s house on the way to a dance. She wants to introduce her boyfriend to her grandmother.

As they are chatting, her boyfriend spies some peanuts on the coffee table. He begins munching on them as they converse.

After about an hour, they are getting ready to leave and he thanks the grandmother for her hospitality and especially for the peanuts.

“Oh, you’re welcome young man,” she says. “I appreciate you finishing them up. Ever since I lost my dentures I can only suck the chocolate off of them.” [ Some not too smart gangsters decide to rob a bank. After several days of planning they agree on the best plan. The next day they get to work and are able to get into the bank relatively easy thanks to their planning. Once inside the main vault they discover one wall is full of safety deposit boxes and start to work on them immediately. They drill and pry open the first box only to find a small container of vanilla pudding inside.

The Head Gangster says, “Okay,

well, at least we can eat it.” So they eat the pudding. They drill and pry open up the second safety deposit box and there sits another pudding. They decide to devour it too.

Determined to find the goods, the process continues for the rest of the night until all the safety deposit boxes have been opened. They didn’t find any money or jewelry in any of the boxes. Disappointed the head gangster said, “Well, at least they left something for us to eat.”

The next day, while listening to the news they hear: “Yesterday the largest SPERM bank in the USA was robbed by an unknown group of people..... [ Two young engineers applied for a single position at a computer company.

They both had the same qualifications. In order to determine which individual to hire, the applicants were asked to take a test by the Department manager.

Upon completion of the test, both men missed only one of the questions.

HOTTEST BAR IN GULF GATE...

MLB/College Packages FULL BAR

The manager went to the first applicant and said, “Thank you for your interest, but we’ve decided to give the job to the other applicant.”

“And why would you be doing that? We both got 9 questions correct,” asked the rejected applicant.

“We have based our decision not on the correct answers, but on the question you missed,” said the Department manager.

“And just how would one incorrect answer be better than the other?” the rejected applicant inquired.

“Simple,” said the Department manager, “Your fellow applicant put down on question #5, ‘I don’t know.’ You put down, ‘Neither do I.’”

27

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

...

Month e h T f o r e d n e t r a B

er Bar (SKOB) Siesta Key Oyst e Village th in , d lv B n a ce 5238 O www.skob.com 941-346-5443

[ A 2006 study found that the average American walks about 900 miles a year.

Another recent study found that Americans drink an average of 22 gallons of beer a year.

That means, on average, Americans get about 41 miles per gallon.

Not Bad.

Name of Bartender: Gina Hometown: Sarasota, FL Q: How long have you been bartending?

A: I’ve been bartending 1 ½ years.

Q: What was the strangest or funniest thing you experienced at work?

A: It has to do with my co-workers and puppets. Come visit and I will tell you the rest of the story.

Q: What do you do in your spare time?

A: Too exciting for words. Just kidding. Honestly, I binge watch Netflix, play with my new puppy, work on puzzles and drink my sangria while cooking new recipes.

Q: How would you describe yourself?

A: Humble with a hint of Kanye.

Q: How would you describe where you work?

A: SKOB is a fun, fast-paced restaurant and staffed by the best!

We’ll make sure you have a great time.

6500 Gateway Ave • 941.554.8905

Q: When’s the best time to see you?

A: I don’t have a set shift but usually Sunday nights

28 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Snapshots of Island Visitors Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

7

5

1

6

2

8

3 9

4

5: Elizabeth age 5 & Parker age 2 from Tampa 6: Elizabeth age 5, Parker age 2, Erin & Adam from Tampa 7: Kiki (pup) & Debbie from SK 8: Sydney age 2 & Blake age 3 ½ from OH Photos 1 - 4: Riley, Brendan, Kathleen, Chris from MN

9: Hailee age 6, Meaghan, Julia age 6, and Fran from NY

Discover Gulf Gate

With our map, located adjacent, you’ll be able to navigate your way to our featured shops with ease. Oh Mamma Mia! (GG-4) 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.

S-34

Catering Available

We Put the South in Your Mouth 6616 Superior Ave. Sarasota

941.926.0099

COUPON

FREE SIDE With the purchase of ANY entreé

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 packages beginning at $495. Check out their website: www. sarasotaphotos.com or visit their store to see why Gulf Gate Golf Course – Conveniently located they have been the photographer of choice for over just a stones throw from the Gulf Gate Shops, a decade and a half. this 27 hole Executive Course offers men’s and 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 G-43 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.

Continued on the next page

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Discover Gulf Gate 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

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.

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.

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

G49 G48 G47 G46 G45 G44 G43 G42 G41 G40 G39 G38 G37 G36 G35 G34 G33 G32 G31 G30 G29 G28 G27 G26 G25 G24

to return often. Take a look at their mouth-watering menu at www.originalwordofmouth. com. Hours: Mon-Sun.: 8AM2PM. 6604 Gateway Ave., Sarasota, 34231, 941-925-2400.

Fiona’s Childrenwear (G43) is the place to shop for all those special occasions and sophisticated but functional everyday wear. Styles range from classic to contemporary to whimsical and are available in size newborn to 16x. Hours: Tues. – Fri. 10 a.m. – 5p.m., Sat. 10a.m. – 4 p.m. Other hours by appt. Call 941-4000732.

Pride of the South (S34) specializes in southern BBQ from ribs to meatloaf along with an array of sides such as grits, collard greens, baked bread, cole slaw, and fried orka all served up in a southern style setting. Let your nose lead the way to their smokers.

M22 M21 M20 M19 M18 M17 M16 M15 M14 M13 M12 M11 M10 M9 M8

M7

Iberia Bank

M6

M5 M4 M3 M2 M1

© Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012

Continued from previous page

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.

The Shop SRQ (G-2) offers flat-tops, fades, tapers,

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Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

G23 G22 G21 G20 G19 G18 G17 G16 G15 G14 G13 G12 G11 G10 G9 G8 G7 G6 G5 G4 G3 G2 G1

G-31

Eat Where The Locals Eat! Original Word of Mouth 6604 Gateway Ave. Sarasota, FL 34231

941-925-2400

HOURS: Monday - Sunday 8:00AM to 2PM www.originalwordofmouth.com

NEWERS N OW

M-10

S29

S58 S57 S56 S55 S54 S53 S52 S51 S50 S49 S48 S47 S46 S45 S44 S43 S42 S41 S40 S39 S38 S37 S36 S35 S34 S33 S32 S31 S30

S28 S27 S26 S25 S24 S23 S22 S21 S20 S19 S18 S17 S16 S15 S14 S13 S12 S11 S10 S9 S8

All packaged liquor sold until 2 AM

Open Daily from 9 AM ‘til 2:30 AM

• 9 AM - 7 PM EVERY DAY

Mike’s Bud Select Brew $1.50/Pints • BEST Bloody Mary’s in Sarasota • Pool TableGolden Tee Megatouch

FREE Pool

7 PM ‘til Close Sunday & Monday

S7 S6 S5 S4 S3 S2 S1

• 12 TV’s with MLB and NFL ticket sports package • All Florida lottery games • Smokers Welcome!

2639 Mall Drive One mi.from Siesta South Bridge (behind Publix) GG1 GG2 GG3 GG4 GG5 GG6 GG7 GG8 GG9 GG10 GG11 GG12 GG13 GG14 GG15 GG16 GG17 GG18 GG19 GG20 GG21 GG22 GG23 GG24 GG25 GG26 GG27 GG28 GG29 GG30 GG31 GG32 GG33 GG34 GG35 GG36 GG37 GG38 GG39 GG40 GG41 GG42 GG43 GG44 GG45 GG46 GG47 GG48 GG49 GG50 GG51 GG52 GG53 GG54

941-923-9827 Open Daily 9 AM-2:30 AM

G-4

PICCOLO

Italian Market & Deli

GG-4

Hot or Cold & Vegetarian Sandwiches

Authentic New York Italian Market & Deli We carry a full line of Imported Cheeses, Boars Head Luncheon Meats, Pasta, Olive Oil, Assorted Imported Olives, Khorasan Wheat (ancient & organic grain), and more.

G-47 GG-46

S-16 SRQ

“Straight Razor Shaves”

941.626.4894 / 941.536.1656

Come See Our New Location

Tonsorial Artistry by

Store Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10am - 6pm 6518 Gateway Ave. www.PiccoloMarket.com

G-2

Combined 25+ Years Experience

Specialty Italian gourmet items without the gourmet price

941-923-2202

THESHOPSRQINC.

Flat-Tops, Fades, Tapers, Blowouts and Razor Cuts

www.TheShopSRQ.com 6625 Gateway Ave.

Tonsorial Artistry

by Erick & Dawn

Open Tues.-Fri. 8:30 AM-6 PM Sat. 8:30 AM - 3 PM Closed Sun. & Mon.

30 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Water World Notes from the Island Fishmonger The Fish on the dish in Florida is grouper We all know the expression “When in Rome…” Well, if you’re reading this article chances are you are in Florida so “When in Florida…” the fish on the dish is Grouper, Snapper and this time of year Stone Crabs are a special treat.

Grouper is Florida’s most well-known and popular fish by far. Grouper is low in calories, high in protein and supplies a significant amount of Omega 3 fatty acid that is known to be great for your heart. And it is delicious. Or as we say at Big Water Fish Market… that fish is delish!

The most common Grouper that belongs to the Sea Bass family are available as Red Grouper, Black, Gag, Scamp and some deep water Groupers include The Kitty Mitchell and the Warsaw Grouper. All of the types of Grouper boast of a flavorful and sweet, white, flaky meat, yet very mild at the same time.

Here is a cool little tidbit....did you know that all Groupers are hermaphrodites which means they start out their lives as females than switch to males at maturity? I’m assuming they reproduce in the early stages of their lives.

The months of peak availability for Florida Gulf Groupers are May through November which is considered to be Grouper Season.

This time of year, March through April, Grouper costs tend to be a little higher because the Mexican border of the Gulf of Mexico is closed for 30 days to all Grouper fishing. This 2016 season is going to be more difficult as the Mexican Gulf has closed its fishing to all Grouper and Snapper for 60

By Scott Dolan, Big Water Fish Market, 6641 Midnight Pass, Siesta Key, 941-554-8101

days to avoid overfishing. That means everyone will be trying to buy Grouper and Snapper from our Florida boarders. With the population of Florida increasing by one million people this month plus the demand for Grouper from the rest of the world; supply and demand comes into effect raising the price of these fish as it does this time of year, every year.

There is some good news though. We respect the labor of our commercial fishermen as they respect you and your wallet. More often than not we will have fresh caught whole Florida Grouper & filets available at a reasonable price from our local commercial fishermen. Since we don’t go through the big distribution companies who sell their frozen product to restaurants and big name grocers, supply can be hit & miss but we will always do our best to keep your cost down while supplying fresh Florida Grouper during this restricted time. Fish

|Kathleen D Sailing Catamarans

Let’s go sailing, KATHLEEN D Sailing Catamarans, serving Siesta Key from 3 locations: Downtown Sarasota, Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island.

If you would like to experience being on the water viewing Dolphin Watches, Sunset Sails, Snorkeling and Shelling call us at 941-870-4349 or go to our web site for detailed information www.kathleend.net USCG Certified for 20 passengers.

from the west coast, Corvina is the grouper of California. It is white and flaky like the Grouper and usually a few dollars per pound less expensive. Corvina is a great Grouper substitute.

Snapper - Although Snapper is well protected and true American Red Snapper season is only open for a few weeks a year in July, there are 17 different types of Snapper that are harvested off the Florida Gulf Coast and could pop up in a retail fish case at any time.

Mangrove and Lanes are the most local of the Snappers as Mutton and Caribbean Snappers are deeper water fish. All Snappers have a delicate texture and are similar in taste. The extra lean meat is firm with a moist and sweet flavor.

To the right is a simple Grouper recipe that will entice every fish lover in your crowd.

markets like Big Water Fish Market have the good stuff.

After all, we are the Grouper capital of the world!

Following is a list of a few alternative fish that are a little more cost effective (yet still delish) this time of year.

Amberjack is a great local fish that is one of my favorites. The filets are thick, firm and cook into large white flakes. Usually one of the least expensive fresh fish in the retail fish case and the taste is similar to the great Mahi-Mahi.

Pompano is as local as it gets. It’s usually caught in Sarasota Bay or off the beach.

Pompano is a firm, mild fish with a buttery-like flavor.

Mahi-Mahi is a Florida mainstay and is usually reasonably priced year round. The extra lean dark meat is firm textured with a solid flake and moist with a mild sweet flavor.

Corvina - Although usually

Big Water Fish Market 6641 Midnight Pass Siesta Key, FL 34242 941-554-8101

Broiled Honey Orange Glazed Florida Grouper • 1 tablespoon honey •

1 tablespoon orange juice

•

3/4 teaspoon Dijon mustard

•

1/2 teaspoon soy sauce

•

1/8 teaspoon deli dust (only found at Big Water Fish Market) or season to taste •

1 pound Grouper filets

Preheat broiler. Combine all ingredients except Grouper, mixing well. Place filets on an oiled broiler sheet pan. Then brush fish filets with your Honey Glaze mixture. Broil for 5 to 6 minutes. Filets should be browned on one side. Brush fish again then turn over and broil for another 5 minutes or until fish flakes easily.

Serve with rice or veggies & enjoy.

Live well...Eat Fish!

Scott Dolan

Antonin Scalia

Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States Antonin Gregory Scalia was an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States from 1986 until his death in 2016.

Appointed to the Court by President Ronald Reagan in 1986, Scalia was described as the intellectual anchor for the originalist and textualist position in the Court’s conservative wing.

Justice Scalia’s Visit to Siesta Key Throwback 2015…Pictured is Supreme Court Justice Antonin “Nino” Scalia and Capt. Rick Grassett on the bow of Grassett’s boat. “He was the guest of client David Morgan, from Sarasota, FL, while he was in Sarasota giving a speech at the Ringling Town Hall Lecture series,” said Grassett.

“They fished Sarasota Bay with me on Sunday and Monday, March 8 and 9, 2015. We worked deep grass flats on both sides of the bay where they caught and released trout, Spanish mackerel, pompano, bluefish and a small cobia on Ultra Hair Clouser flies and CAL jigs with shad tails. It

was an interesting experience and insight into our government. Conversation ranged from fishing and hunting to the weather to stories about Ronald Reagan, “Tip” O’Neil, Jimmy Carter and more. Very personable and friendly, when I shook his hand as he stepped on board he said, ‘My friends call me Nino.’ Escorted by a team of 6 U.S. Marshalls, the original plan was to have a presence of police boat(s) and a rescue boat in the vicinity. In the end “Nino” called them off since he didn’t want it to distract from fishing. Instead he was delivered to the boat launch each morning in a small motorcade.

A memorable experience!”

MARCH 2016 TIDE CHART Florida, St. Petersburg, Sarasota, Sarasota Bay

March 2016

N 27° 20' / W 82° 33'

It’s Stone Crab Season!

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Date

Day

1

Tu

6:33a

High Tide 0.8

High Tide

Sunrise

Sunset

Moonrise

Moonset

Phase

6:54a

6:31p

12:35a

11:45a

2

We

5:46p

1.6

3rd

6:53a

6:32p

1:27a

12:31p

3

Th

7:00p

1.7

4

Fr

10:59a

1.1

8:15p

1.7

6:52a

6:33p

2:19a

1:21p

6:51a

6:33p

3:10a

5

Sa

11:22a

1.2

9:22p

2:15p

0.9

6:50a

6:34p

4:01a

6

Su

11:43a

1.3

3:14p

4:57p

0.7

6:49a

6:34p

4:50a

7

Mo

12:03p

1.3

4:15p

-0.4

5:46p

0.6

6:48a

6:35p

5:38a

8

Tu

12:24p

1.4

5:19p

6:49a

-0.3

6:33p

0.3

6:47a

6:35p

6:24a

9

We

12:04a

1.9

12:47p

6:25p

1.6

7:23a

-0.2

7:21p

0.1

6:46a

6:36p

7:09a

10

Th

12:56a

1.8

7:31p

1:13p

1.6

7:56a

0.0

8:12p

0.0

6:45a

6:37p

7:53a

8:37p

11

Fr

1:49a

12

Sa

2:47a

1.6

1:42p

1.7

8:26a

0.3

9:06p

-0.1

6:44a

6:37p

8:39a

9:43p

1.5

2:16p

1.8

8:56a

0.5

10:08p

-0.2

6:43a

6:38p

9:26a

10:47p

13

Su

14

Mo

4:56a

1.2

3:55p

1.9

10:23a

0.6

7:42a

7:38p

11:14a

6:32a

1.0

4:41p

1.9

12:18a

-0.2

10:49a

0.8

7:41a

7:39p

15

12:05p

12:50a

Tu

5:40p

1.8

1:39a

-0.2

7:39a

7:39p

12:58p

1:50a

16

We

7:01p

1.7

3:04a

-0.2

7:38a

7:40p

1:52p

2:46a

17

Th

11:40a

1.2

8:38p

1.7

4:17a

-0.2

3:05p

1.1

7:37a

7:41p

2:47p

3:38a

18

Fr

12:00p

1.3

10:00p

1.6

5:15a

-0.2

4:43p

1.0

7:36a

7:41p

3:42p

4:26a

19

Sa

12:21p

1.4

11:03p

1.7

6:00a

-0.2

5:46p

0.8

7:35a

7:42p

4:36p

5:09a

20

Su

12:39p

1.5

11:52p

1.6

6:37a

-0.1

6:33p

0.6

7:34a

7:42p

5:29p

5:49a

21

Mo

12:55p

1.5

7:08a

0.0

7:11p

0.5

7:33a

7:43p

6:22p

6:27a

22

Tu

12:34a

1.6

1:08p

1.6

7:34a

0.1

7:45p

0.4

7:32a

7:43p

7:13p

7:02a

23

We

1:11a

1.6

1:22p

1.6

7:57a

0.2

8:17p

0.2

7:30a

7:44p

8:04p

7:37a

24

Th

1:46a

1.6

1:37p

1.7

8:18a

0.4

8:50p

0.1

7:29a

7:44p

8:55p

8:11a

25

Fr

2:21a

1.5

1:56p

1.8

8:39a

0.5

9:26p

0.0

7:28a

7:45p

9:46p

8:46a

26

Sa

2:59a

1.4

2:20p

1.9

9:00a

0.6

10:06p

0.0

7:27a

7:45p

10:37p

9:22a

27

Su

3:41a

1.3

2:49p

1.9

9:23a

0.6

10:51p

0.0

7:26a

7:46p

11:28p

10:01a

28

Mo

4:32a

1.2

3:23p

1.9

9:47a

0.7

11:44p

0.0

7:25a

7:46p

29

Tu

5:40a

1.1

4:02p

1.9

10:13a

0.9

7:24a

7:47p

12:20a

11:25a

30

We

7:23a

1.0

4:51p

1.8

12:47a

0.0

7:23a

7:47p

1:11a

12:13p

31

Th

5:56p

1.8

1:59a

0.0

7:21a

7:48p

2:02a

1:04p

4:44p

1.6

Low Tide

Low Tide

12:29a

0.1

10:37a

1:47a

0.0

3:00a

-0.1

4:01a

-0.3

2:49p

1.0

1.8

4:51a

-0.4

4:01p

10:20p

1.9

5:34a

-0.4

11:13p

1.9

6:13a

10:43a

0.7

0.9

©2016 FreeTideTables.com - For comparison only - Times are local - Tides in feet from MLLW

New

1st

Full

10:41a

3rd

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Captain Jim Klopfer’s Fishing Report March is a great month to fish on Siesta Key. It is the first month of spring, both on the calendar and outside. The list of available species is long; snook, redfish, trout, pompano, cobia, king and Spanish mackerel, sheepshead, flounder, snapper, grouper, jack crevelle, and sharks just to name a few.

Big Pass will be very productive this month, particularly when the water is clean. Ladyfish are usually thick, with bluefish, mackerel, and pompano mixed in.

The sheepshead run will peak this month. Just about any structure near either pass will hold these tasty critters. A live shrimp fished on the bottom should result in a fish dinner pretty easily.

Speckled trout will be schooled up over deep grass flats throughout the entire area.

Incoming tides are best, but as long as the water is moving the fish will bite. A live shrimp under a noisy cork is a proven

trout slayer. Jigs, spoons, and plugs will fool many fish, too.

Pompano, mackerel, ladyfish, bluefish, jacks, and a stray cobia will also be encountered when fishing over the grass flats.

These are large areas, the key to success is to keep moving until fish are located, do not spend too much time in one spot if it is not producing.

Snook will move out of their winter retreats on their way out to the Gulf to spawn. The Myakka River will still produce some good fish as they migrate down river.

Any structure with a depth change is a likely place to catch a snook.

Docks, bridges, and oyster bars are all very productive, especially those with some current. Plugs and scented soft plastic baits are the top choices, along with a large hand-picked shrimp. Remember, snook season is closed, handle the fish with care and release them unharmed.

Surf fishing should be good for

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

31

Adventure Charters 941-371-1390

a variety of species providing the water is clear and not roiled up.

Whiting, silver trout, flounder, pompano, Spanish mackerel, and ladyfish will hit both live shrimp and artificial lures. A jig tipped with a small piece of shrimp works well bounced along the bottom. Mackerel and ladyfish will hit flash lures such as silver spoons and plugs. A live shrimp fished on the bottom with just enough weight to get down is a simple but effective technique and will catch anything that swims. Anglers targeting pompano will do well with live or frozen sand fleas.

The beach should come alive this month, provided the winds cooperate. Spanish and king mackerel will invade the area, along with cobia, sharks, and false albacore. The inshore reefs off of Lido Key are a great place to start, they hold a lot of fish.

Trolling spoons and plugs is a deadly technique and will fill the

Candice enjoys fly fishing for snook in the Myakka River

cooler in short order. For more sport, look for breaking fish on the surface and cast plugs,

spoons, or flies out into the frenzy, a vicious strike should occur immediately!

Highlights from the Siesta Key Association Meeting Continued from page 9

South Siesta Renourishment Project update

The U.S. Coast Guard has issued a Notice to Mariners that, starting approximately on Feb. 15, Weeks Marine of Covington, LA, will begin mobilizing support equipment in Sarasota Bay, with barges anchored just southwest of Bird Key, as it prepares to dredge 690,000 cubic yards of sand for the renourishment of 2 miles of South Siesta beach.

Weeks Marine was the only bidder for the South Siesta Renourishment Project.

The County Commission awarded it the $18,101,737.50 contract in December 2015. The total cost of the project is $21.5 million.

Property owners in the affected area will be assessed $3,536,237, beginning in the 2018 fiscal year, to help cover the expense. Another $11,215,500.50 came from Tourist Development Tax revenue.

The first nourishment on south Siesta beach was completed in 2007. The latest project includes planting about 1.1 acres of native dune vegetation to replace what has been lost since in recent years.

The Notice to Mariners adds that the dredge pipeline will be located offshore of Siesta Public Beach “and submerged into the southern pipeline corridor,” bound by coordinates the Coast Guard provided.

Harold Ashby

A drawing shows how a dredge hopper works.

Image courtesy Carteret County Government, N.C.

The notice continues, “A single point mooring/discharge connection will be approximately 7,500 feet off the shore of the renourishment site.” On the seaward end of that connection “will be a ball connection attached to 300 feet of floating rubber discharge hose that will be attached to the submerged pipeline,” the notice adds. “[T]he entire connection and assembly will be out of the navigation channel,” it says.

Hopper dredges R.N. Weeks and B.E. Lindholm are expected to arrive as early as March 1, and the dredging will commence soon afterward, the notice continues.

The dredge material will be

Sheriff’s Report Continued from page 11

The defendant turned towards the officer and in the same motion swiped under his nose with his hand. The officer noticed a white substance under his nose. The defendant stated he did not know what the substance was. The officer asked the defendant to tilt his head back in order to confirm the white substance was in the defendant’s nostrils, which it was. When the defendant still had no explanation, the officer concluded that the white substance was consistent with illegal activity. At this time, the other deputy noticed in plain sight, where the defendant was sitting, a silver Ruger SP101-.357-magnum pistol, which was later found to be loaded. There was also an odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle. During a search officers also found a plastic baggie containing alprazolam and oxycodone in the defendant’s shirt pocket. The defendant stated he had not been issued a concealed weapons permit and the firearm was not registered as stolen. While the defendant was being searched inside the jail after his arrest, a small plastic bag containing cocaine was found inside his jacket pocket.

pumped to the beach through a combination of floating and submerged pipelines, the notice adds. Once the dredging gets under way, the notice says, it will continue 24 hours a day, seven days a week. It is expected to conclude around April 15, the notice points out.

A new SKA board member

During the Feb. 4 Siesta Key Association (SKA) meeting, Secretary Joyce Kouba introduced a new board member, Harold Ashby.

An avid cyclist, Ashby has proposed that the nonprofit organization join him in a bicycle

advocacy program, she said, adding, “We are looking into that.”

Ashby spoke up during the Jan. 7 SKA meeting after President Michael Shay asked whether audience members had any questions. He wanted to initiate a project on the island involving bicycle awareness, Ashby said, and he was hoping the SKA would assist him. Having lived on the Key since 2006, Ashby added, “I can see the need.”

Many of the visitors on the island have no knowledge of the rules of the road for cyclists, he pointed out. “I have seen some of the most dangerous stuff …”

On Feb. 4, Ashby told the people in the audience that he moved to Siesta Isles from Maryland. “I’m happy to be on the SKA board.”

The Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce is seeking to fill the Membership Sales and Services Director position. The Membership Services Director is responsible for maximizing recruitment and retention of Chamber members and oversees all areas of sales, services and benefits to its members. He/She will also attend committee meetings and assist with Chamber events.

This is a full time position (40 hours per week) Annual Salary Range: $32,000 - $34,000 including a Performance Bonus: Based on achievement of meeting/ exceeding budgeted revenue goals.

Desired Characteristics

• Experience in the non-profit sector, community development, and sales and marketing • Strong understanding of local business and tourism climate

‘Go forth and multiply’

An email blast sent out last week in advance of the Feb. 4 Siesta Key

Siesta Key Round-Up Seeking Employment on Siesta Key

Joe Volpe Association program obviously was successful in netting an exceptionally good turnout. When board member Beverly Arias asked how many of the approximately 70 people in the Parish Hall for the session had come because of that extra notice, plenty of hands shot into the air.

“We would love to continue to communicate with you by email,” Arias said, adding that members should update their profiles on the SKA website, including their current email addresses. And the website mechanism that allows them to renew their memberships online is functioning, she pointed out.

Later, board member Joe Volpe told those in the audience, “I really would like to see you go forth and multiply.”

Volpe has reminded meeting attendees that the more members the organization has, the more clout it wields as it works on behalf of them.

Continued from page 6

• Skilled in public speaking, community outreach and effective networking • Demonstrated computer and social media proficiency • Outgoing personality and enthusiasm • Ability to sit and stand for long periods and lift and carry items weighing up to 20 pounds Qualified and interested candidates are invited to mail their resume and a cover letter addressing why this position aligns with your experiences, skills, professional goals and personal passions, with “Membership Sales and Services Director” as the Subject, to: Ann Frescura, Executive Director, Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce, 5114 Ocean Boulevard, Siesta Key, Florida 34242.

NOTICE: Looking for the Village Barber?

For those that have enjoyed the cuts and comradery at The Village Barber over the years, you can still continue to see Scott at his new location. Back in July Scott Reich announced moving out of the Village and off the Key. Reich and his stepfather Pete Sparks had been servicing patrons in the Village for the past 20 years. The Siesta Center was sold and the new ownership of the Ocean Blvd building wasn’t quite meeting up to expectations he and Sparks had of the new landlord. Sparks announced his retirement and Reich announced a move to The Shop SRQ at 6625 Gateway Ave. in Gulf Gate. You can reach Scott Reich at 941-346-0222.

His hours are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Tues – Fri, and Sat from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. www.SiestaKeyBarbershop.com

32 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Arts on the Horizon Locals and visitors alike will have an Arts filled experience this month in Sarasota! Check out our calendar of events and enjoy some entertainment!

• March 1 at 7:30pm. Macbeth by William Shakespeare at the Asolo.

The Scottish nobleman Macbeth receives a supernatural prophecy and chooses a life of violence, unleashing devastating psychological effects of evil and power. www.asolorep.org • March 1, 11 at 7:30pm & Mar. 5 at 1:30pm “Fidelio” by Ludwig van Beethoven at the Sarasota Opera House - Beethoven’s only opera tells the story of Leonore, a faithful wife whose undying love and perseverance saves her husband from certain death. www.sarasotaopera.org • March 1 at 8pm - The Jerusalem Symphony Orchestra at the Van Wezel.

Cellist/Conductor Dmitry Yablonsky at the helm, performing a diverse repertoire, ranging from Baroque and Classical Periods, through the Romantic period to contemporary composers. www. vanwezel.org • March 2, 5, 10, 15, 19 at 7:30pm - “Aida” Giuseppe Verdi at the Sarasota Opera House.

Radamés is a determined Egyptian warrior who thinks of only two things, leading his country’s legions against the Ethiopians, and his undying love for the slave. www.sarasotaopera.org • March 2 at 8pm - The McCartney Years at the Van Wezel.

Hailed as “THE BEST ON THE SCENE”, by the Beatles promoter. A stunning and explosive live concert that performs the music of Paul McCartney, from The Beatles to Wings. www.vanwezel.org • March 3, 8, 16, 18 at 7:30pm. & March 6, 12 at 1:30 “The Battle of Legnano” Giuseppe Verdi at the Sarasota Opera House.

As the Milanese troops struggle to defend their city against the warrior Barbarossa, love for the same woman will test the friendship of two warriors. www.sarasotaopera.org • March 3, 4 at 8pm - Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat at the Van Wezel.

Tim Rice & Andrew Lloyd Webber, is the irresistible family musical about the trials and triumphs of Joseph. www.vanwezel.org • March 4 at 12pm. Concerts at Noon: Studio and Apprentice Artists at the Sarasota Opera House.

Experience tomorrow’s talent first hand as our Apprentice Artists perform in these hour-long concerts. www.sarasotaopera.org • March 4 at 3pm. Covers at 3 at the Sarasota Opera House.

Studio Artists who are understudying principal roles on the main stage will sing excerpts from this season’s operas. www.sarasotaopera.org • March 6 at 7pm. The Moody Blues at the Van Wezel.

Rock legends & Classic rock from the 60’s! www. vanwezel.org • March 9 at 8pm. Disney Fantasia Live in Concert at the Van Wezel.

The music and imagery from the legendary animated films, Fantasia & Fantasia 2000. www.vanwezel.org • March 9 at 7:30pm. Artists Choice Concert at the Sarasota Opera House.

A Sarasota Opera tradition! Enjoy Principal and Studio Artists talent, as they perform their choice of the best of Opera & Broadway! www.sarasotaopera.org • March 9 to April 17 – Guess Who’s Coming to Dinner at the Florida Studio Theatre. www.floridastudiotheatre.org • March 10 at 8pm.

The Joffrey Ballet at the Van Wezel - classically trained to the highest standards, reflecting the diversity of America with its company repertoire, including major story ballets, masterpieces & contemporary works. www.vanwezel.org • March 11, 12 at 8pm. March 13 at 2:30pm “Our Town” presented by the Sarasota Orchestra.

(11th at Neel Pac, 12th & 13 at Van Wezel.) One of the greatest violin concerti of all time calls for one of the greatest living violinists. Guy Braunstein, the youngest concertmaster in the history of the Berlin Philharmonic. www.sarasotaorchestra.org • March 11 at 8pm. Gordon Lightfoot at the Van Wezel – with 50 years of hit songs and multi-million international album sales. Gordon Lightfoot resides atop the list of all-time greats. www.vanwezel.org

What’s Happening

By Jaye Clements

• March 4 at 7:30 & March 12 at 8pm. “Cosi fan tutte” by W.A. Mozart at the Sarasota Opera House. “Così fan tutte” literally means “all women do this.” Ferrando and Guglielmo believe that their respective fiancées will be eternally faithful, but the old philosopher Don Alfonso isn’t so sure. www. sarasotaopera.org • March 16 at 3pm & 8pm. Saturday Night Fever at the Van Wezel.

A tale of young Tony Manero who learns the value of life in 1970’s Brooklyn. Based on the movie, it is packed with legendary hits from the Bee Gees. www.vanwezel.org • March 17 at 8pm. The Young Irelanders at the Van Wezel.

The Young Irelanders comprises eight amazing performers who perform Irish traditional music, songs and dance. www.vanwezel.org • March 17 at 7:30pm. The Young Verdi at the Sarasota Opera House.

Giuseppe Verdi is known as the preeminent Romantic opera composer of the 19th century, and regarded by many as the reigning master of Italian opera of all time. www.sarasotaopera.org • March 18, 19 at 8pm - Sarasota Orchestra presents Disney in Concert at the Van Wezel.

This multi-media experience features four acclaimed vocalists as well as scenes from Disney movies projected above. www. sarasotaorchestra.org • March 20 at 7pm - The Peking Acrobats at the Van Wezel.

The Peking Acrobats, China’s most gifted tumblers, contortionists, jugglers, cyclists, and gymnasts. www.vanwezel.org • March 20 at 5pm Verdi Cycle Grand Finale Concert at the Sarasota Opera House.

Celebrate the conclusion of our world renowned Verdi Cycle. The evening will include a lavish dinner party, followed by a concert and an after-party with cocktails, live music & sweet indulgences. www. sarasotaopera.org • March 21 at 8pm. Bullets Over Broadway at the Van Wezel.

A hilarious musical comedy about a young playwright who, in desperate need of financial backing for his next show, accepts an offer he can’t refuse. by Woody Allen. www.vanwezel.org • March 22 at 8pm. STOMP at the Van Wezel.

STOMP is explosive, inventive, provocative, witty, and utterly unique and unforgettable experience for all ages. Instruments include matchboxes, wooden poles, brooms, garbage cans, Zippo lighters, hubcaps to fill the stage with magnificent rhythms. www.vanwezel.org • March 23 at 8pm. The Irish Tenors at the Van Wezel.

The Irish Tenors’ powerful vocal line-up of all classically trained singers, Finbar Wright, Anthony Kearns and Ronan Tynan are unquestionably the leading brand of this genre. www.vanwezel.org • March 24 at 8pm. Linda Eder with Robert Cuccioli at the Van Wezel.

Linda Eder’s diverse repertoire spans Broadway, standards, pop, country and jazz. Enjoy a night of dynamic live performances. www.vanwezel.org • March 25 at 8pm. The Midtown Men at the Van Wezel.

They took Broadway by storm in one of the biggest hits of all-time! “Sixties Hits” from The Beatles, The Rascals, Motown, The Four Seasons and more! Celebrating the music that defined the ‘60s! www.vanwezel.org • March 26 at 2pm & 8pm. Million Dollar Quartet at the Van Wezel.

Inspired by the electrifying true story behind the impromptu collaboration between Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, and Carl Perkins. www.vanwezel.org • March 31 at 8pm. An Evening with Sophia Loren at the Van Wezel.

Grace, beauty and artistry, Oscar-winning actress Sophia Loren will captivate you with an intimate onstage conversation and question-and-answer session as well as film clips from her prolific career spanning over five decades. www.vanwezel.org • March 31 at 8pm. Disgraced at the Asolo. www.asolorep.org

®

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

Regularly Scheduled Classes & Events: WEEKLY BEACH CLASSES: • FREE YOGA Mon-Wed.-Fri.-Sat. 9am.

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). Contact Kathy Oravec at 941-724-9719 for more info or check website: www.nianow.com/kathy-oravec • SUNSET FUSION – Every Mon & Wed, 45 minutes before sunset. Beach access #4.

For additional info and to register online go to: http://www.studiorubylake.com • WEEKLY DRUM CIRCLE: Every Sunday about an hour before sunset. South of the main pavillion.

You can particpate or watch this weekly gathering dance, hoop, play the drum or other musical instument and enjoy the spectacular Siesta sunset.

• WEEKLY FARMER’S MARKET: Every Sunday from 8am – 2pm in Davidson’s Plaza in the Village. 5124 Ocean Blvd. Produce, Plants & Flowers, Music, Art, Organic Skincare, Italian Olive Oil, and Freshly Prepared Foods.

Listen to live music while you shop.

On The Beach…

• MARCH (WEDS) 8AM SUNRISE BEACH WALKS: Participants pay a one-time $5 registration fee and receive an event t-shirt with orginal design and sponsor logos and a punch card. Each week, participants check in with Parks and recreation staff between 8-9:30AM and after walking four weeks they are entered into a drawing for prizes. Contact 941861-5000 for details.

• BEACH UNIVERSITY PROGRAM MARCH (WED) 9:30-10:30AM: This environmental education series will take place at the main Siesta Key pavilion. The series will cover a new topic each month. Call 941-861-5000 for topic of the week.

• EASTER SUNRISE SERVICE – MARCH 27, 6:30AM: Pine Shores will be hosting the 57th Annual Sunrise Service near the main pavilion on Siesta beach.

Everyone is welcome and there is no cost. The service will begin at 6:30 a.m, bring your chairs, blankets and some coffee and enjoy worship with a full instrumental and music choir and music team. All age oriented with children’s time included.

Parking fills up quickly so come early.

For more information, contact 941-922-1597. www.pineshorespres.org Around the island…

• CB’S SALTWATER OUTFITTERS ORVIS-ENDORSED FLY FISHING SCHOOLS - 2016: Mar. 12, Apr 2 and Apr 11, 2016. The schools will cover fly casting basics, line control, shooting line and the roll cast.

Instructors, Capt. Rick Grassett and Capt. Ed Hurst, will also cover leader construction, fly selection and saltwater fly fishing techniques. The course, designed for beginning and intermediate fly casters, will focus on basics but also work with intermediate casters on correcting faults and improving casting skills. Cost for the schools, which will run from 8:30 AM to 3 PM, is $150 per person and includes the use of Orvis fly tackle, a text book and lunch. Contact CB’s Saltwater Outfitters at (941) 349-4400 or info@cbsoutfitters. com to make reservations. CB’s Saltwater Outfitters is located on Siesta Key, directly over the Stickney Point Bridge at 1249 Stickney Point Rd. • MARCH 26 (SAT) 9AM-NOON: 15th ANNUAL EASTER EGG HUNT & GAMES: The Easter Egg Hunt will be held at beach access #5. The egg hunt is

for children ages 1-6. There is a $10 registration fee per child. Free trolley service will be available from the public beach to the Village beginning at 8:30 a.m. Each child receives an Easter Stuffed Animal and an Easter Egg Hunt Goody Bag stuffed with prizes.

Face painters will be there and opportunities to ride the trolley, tour the Siesta Key ambulance and fire truck and participate in other fun family entertainment.

Sheriff Dept. fingerprinting kits are available. Registration is limited to first 125 paid children.

Register online at: www. siestakeyvillage.org. Mail form to: SKVA, 221 Beach Rd, ##155, Sarasota FL 34242 Off island…

• MARCH 12 (SAT), 10AM-4PM: HONEY BEE FESTIVAL: Sweetgrass Farms is hosting this event at 8350 Carolina Street, Sarasota, Florida. Kids and adults in full costume get in free. Adults in regular attire pay $5.00. Activities at the event will include an assortment of vendor and craft tents, you pick strawberries, live music and family entertainment, kid zone crafts and games, local artisan food and raw local honey tastings. There will also be educational booths offering talks on backyard beekeeping, master gardening, pollination, and more. Proceeds from the Honey Bee Festival will be given in support of building the research facility.

For more information visit sarasotahoney.com or call 941-726-8755.

• PARTY IN PARADISE: MARCH 18 (FRI), 5:30-7:30PM: Kickoff Gardens in Paradise Tour in an original Ralph Twitchell MOD home/garden on Siesta Key. Casual catered affair, music, cocktail, bay-views. Bonus: Top Sarasota junior tennis star players performance.

See website for tickets or call 941-955-0875 www.sarasotagardenclub.org • GARDENS IN PARADISE: MARCH 19 (SAT), 10AM-4PM: Premier Garden Tour of Extraordinary Gardens. Self-guided; gather inspiration to create your own personal garden paradise. www.sarasotagardenclub.org for reservations or call 941 955-0875 Upcoming Events…

• PREVIEW OF COMING ATTRACTIONS By Diana Colson The Sarasota Film Festival is coming!

It starts April 1, and continues through April 10. This annual ten day event will showcase the art of filmmaking as it screens over 200 films. More than 250 filmmakers will be in attendance. There will be parties and galas and multiple special events, including symposiums and panels featuring leaders in the film industry.

The Sarasota Film Festival has energized Sarasota for nearly two decades. It has welcomed some of the most acclaimed and promising actors, directors, screenwriters, and musicians of our time. A wide selection of features, documentaries, shorts, and animations are offered, some designed for young people, and others created by young people from all over the world. At SFF, the most talented young, old, new and veteran independent filmmakers showcase their work.

Hundreds of volunteers will be on hand to help SFF achieve this mission, Get Involved! Volunteer! Celebrate the art of filmmaking! Go to www. sarasotafilmfestival.org to learn more about this world-class event.

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.

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.

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC is not responsible for claims made by advertisers.

All ads are subject to the approval of the publisher. It is the responsibility of the party placing any ad for publication in Siesta Sand to meet all applicable legal requirements in connection with the ad such as compliance with town, county and state codes in first obtaining an occupational license for business, permitted home occupation, or residential rental property.

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33

Wake & Shake

Photos by Jaye Clements - Sarasota Photography

Just roll out of bed...your hair looks great!

Shampoo and towel dry.... and you’re done! The style is in the cut, not the blowdry, so you don’t have to fuss with your hair to look good... even with fine, limp hair... and my new steam color process creates richer brunettes and spectacular blondes. The colors go deeper and last longer, yet are far more gentle to the hair.

By Appointment Only with Ian:

941.356.0295 www.iansalon.com

Above: Alistar age 9 & Carly age 9 (twins – front) & Dave & Anne from Ontario. Right: Laura & Tylor from Sarasota

Soulfully Yours Donnarose Q: Dear Donnarose, these days I’m finding I have much different views than the people in my social circle, but I don’t want to rock the boat. I like these people and don’t want to lose their friendship, but I find I’m losing myself instead. Any thoughts? ~Thanks, Camille A: ~ “The way people respond to our changes is determined by how we present them.” ~Donnarose Melvin What I’m picking up here is that you’ve experienced an energetic shift. And the things that now interest you, match this higher vibration. That’s a good thing. However, these new interests of yours don’t match those in your social circle. The thing is, people evolve as time progresses though some faster than others.

You can of course maintain your friendships with those in your circle. But over time, I sense you will find yourself gravitating more and more towards people whose energy matches your higher vibration.

Meaning, you may decide to attend the Friday night yoga classes with your new Reiki Master friend, instead of the Friday Fiestas with your social circle.

But don’t be surprised if some in your circle start to join you and follow your steps in this new direction.

Also keep in mind, that there’s nothing wrong with your transition towards new views and interests, unless you make something wrong with it. So consider allowing yourself to be true to who you are now, and emanate confidence and peaceful energy when presenting whatever changes you made. And your friends’ reactions will more likely match your energy. And your journey on your spiritual path will be able to continue with more ease and peace. ~ ♥ Q: Dear Donnarose, I’ve been told my low selfworth seems to have carried into my adult life. I lost count how many times people have said I just need to love myself. I did try that route, but I’m just not feeling the love. Please advise. ~Kelly A: ~ “When we accept who we see in the mirror, the love for ourselves becomes clearer.” ~Donnarose Melvin Saying “I love me” straight out of the gate when dealing with low self-worth for many years, is similar to someone who has never exercised saying, “I’m an

Olympic athlete”. Meaning, some work has to be done first. Now keep in mind, some of the things we’ve been taught as kids or older, do not have to apply to us now. As adults, we’re allowed to make new rules as to how we decide to look at things. That being said, consider that saying “I accept who I am in this present moment” is a form of self-love. Also consider that another form of self-love, or loving yourself, is allowing yourself to clear unforgiving energy from your system. An example of this would be saying to yourself, “Infinite Creator, for all involved, for all feelings of unworthiness, guilt, fear, shame, abandonment; for all hurts and wrongs we’ve received, or inflicted on others in this or any lifetime, please help us all forgive each other and ourselves, no matter what happened, please and thank you.” This process above tends to help with clearing the unworthy energy you’ve been holding onto, and makes room for increased self-acceptance.

And as mentioned above, self-acceptance is a form of self-love. This can also help create an opening for improvement in your daily actions towards yourself.

For example, behavior relating to over-indulgences to stuff down your woes, tends to be replaced with more caring treatment towards yourself. Self-blame, and judging oneself also tends to decrease. This forgiveness process also complements any therapy you may choose to receive. If you consider applying all the above along with other effective options of treatment, don’t be surprised as you continue on this path, you start allowing yourself to finally feel the love. ~ ♥ 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.

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Treasures Used Boats Answers on Page 68 Vendor Stalls

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Dania Marine Flea Market

Answers on page 41

34 Siesta Sand

March 2016

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REAL ESTATE HOME SECTION Profiles in Real Estate: Dan Miller By Diana Colson Dan Miller is a real estate agent who lives on Siesta Key. He didn’t grow up here: he was raised in Chicago. He started coming to Florida in the mid-70’s, after his father moved to Sarasota.

Dan attended Northeastern Illinois University where he majored in accounting before going on to become an international bank examiner.

In the 1980’s Dan moved to Sarasota and joined the family business. The Millers owned a chain of MR. FORMAL stores, located all over the State of Florida. This chain rented formal wear throughout the southeastern United States. The family also

PALM ISLAND

Photo credit: Goggle earth

owned another closely-related business— a chain of dry cleaners. Dan and his brother were involved in the businesses until 2002, when they sold the company.

Dan then became a commercial real estate investor who also invested in mortgages.

When the real estate downturn occurred, it was inevitable that some properties were returned.

Dan seized the opportunity to remarket those properties.

He became a realtor in 2007, first working with Key Realty, and later with Re/Max Tropical Sands. His experience in business, accounting, investing and banking had sharpened his skills, and he became a passionate realtor, especially when it came to properties on Siesta Key and Siesta Key’s Palm Island neighborhood, where he and his wife have lived since 1991. Palm Island soon became his territory. In the past five years, he has represented more buyers and sellers on the Island than any other realtor.

The island offers a wide variety of homestyle choices. It is filled with a range of architectural styles, some modernist dwellings, others original beach cottages or Florida Ranch homes. A number of properties have been tear-downs, replaced by estate-size, luxury mansions.

Dan loves Palm Island for its excellent boating water and for its neighborhood spirit.

It is a well-established community within walking distance of Siesta Village and the

beach, but quieter and more secluded. The island is filled with lush, subtropical vegetation, and features mature palms and live oaks, some holding a nest of an Osprey. The Grand Canal marks Palm Island’s northern boundary, and Manatees and small stingrays are sometimes spotted in those waters.

A small lake stands in the center of Palm Island, and the Island boasts of a County Park named after Elsie Blair, one of the neighborhood’s early residents. About half of the Island’s population is made up of “snowbirds’, many of them retired military or medical or legal professionals. Of late, however, the Island has seen an influx of families with young children.

Dan is considered an expert on selling this remarkable paradise. Having lived on Siesta Key for 30 years, his knowledge of that particular market gives him the ability and insight to answer his client’s every need.

Dan Miller is married to Karen Rose, executive director of Sarasota County Middle Schools. In their spare time, the couple enjoys activities such as tennis, biking, the beach, and spending time on their boat, the “Sea-Esta Slacker.” They are often seen walking their beautiful Soft Coated Wheaton Terrier, a dog by the name of Ferris who draws attention wherever he goes.

Dan Miller can be reached at 941-376-7442.

His email is ddm1@comcast.net.

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March 2016

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35

Relaxed Retreat!

MLS #4141678

Castel Del Mare 1622 Stickney Pt Rd #202

B

eautifully updated two story unit with views of the ICW. Sold furnished. Two bedrooms, updated 1.5 baths, new kitchen.

Bamboo floors. Upgraded sliders in master bedroom. New A/C unit and stacked washer/dryer in the unit. Castel Del Mare is ideally located just east of the south bridge to Siesta. Bike to the beach or quick access to shopping and restaurants. Perfect winter retreat or rental.

941.266.2848

Kristina von Kessel

941.266.2174

Brigitte von Kessel

Licensed Real Estate Broker 440 Gulf of Mexico Dr. Longboat Key, Florida 34228

941-383-7591

Office

36 Siesta Sand

March 2016

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Sand Castles

|Gulf & Bay Club: a grand property with a grand view

By Roger Drouin Gulf & Bay Club is an expansive Gulfside resort with more than 780 feet of beach frontage.

The resort of 392 condominium units sits on more than 30 acres, a property size that is unique for Siesta Key. “People don’t realize how big our property is,” said Marc Turgeon, sales and rental manager for the community’s realty and rental firm Gulf & Bay Club Realty LLC. The units range from 1,352 to 2,800 square feet. Every unit has a lanai, some of which have been enclosed to add living space, and every unit has a water view, Turgeon said.

Amenities of the community include: a BBQ island, three heated pools, state-of-the-art fitness center with spa, a large clubhouse with library and computer room, basketball courts, shuffleboard,

and racquetball.

In addition to the BBQ island equipped with gas grills and tiki huts there are at least seven more barbecue areas throughout the community. There are eight tennis courts, including a Har-Tru court, Turgeon said. Owners and guests can even fish in the lakes on the property, but it is Catch and Release.

The greatest amenity, Turgeon said, is the resort’s location. The resort is adjacent to Siesta Key Public Beach. On Feb. 20, the public beach hosted a public grand opening celebration to reveal its fully upgraded visitors’ areas, the culmination of two years of construction and nearly a decade’s worth of planning and consulting on the county project.

“The Gulf & Bay Club is a true Florida resort, nestled right in the

heart of Siesta Key, adjacent to the world famous Siesta Key Beach, one of the top ten beaches in the world,” said Ron Flynn, Realtor with Key Solutions Real Estate.

The development was constructed from 1979 to 1983. The six buildings are concrete-block construction with stucco finish, a durable type of construction for a coastal environment.

In addition to the water views, owners and renters alike enjoy the lush, tropical courtyard, which features two fountains and the BBQ island that are lit at night.

The courtyard also features three heated swimming pools, and freshwater lagoons with a rustic footbridge meandering onto the unique BBQ island situated in the middle of a lagoon.

Turgeon recalls one couple who have been renting at Gulf & Bay for three decades. “They love that courtyard,” he said.

Many units owners, as well, have owned units for 30 years, Turgeon said. Some owners have purchased second or third units even for family members, such as children or grandchildren.

“For many renters and owners, their kids and grandkids grew up here,” Turgeon said, noting they would spend each winter or summer on the Key. Most owners are part-time occupants. “Only about 25 owners live here full time,” Turgeon said.

Unit owners hail from all corners of the globe, from Canada to Colombia, Turgeon said.

One set of renters, whose main residence is on Park Avenue in New York City, have come down every year for a five-month stay.

“They already own two properties and don’t want to own another,” Turgeon said. But the renters look forward to their stay at Gulf & Bay every year.

With the tennis courts, pools, lush courtyard, and other amenities, “there is something for everyone at Gulf & Bay,” Flynn said.

Condo association fees at Gulf & Bay Club are $2,108 a quarter. Gulf & Bay Club Realty LLC handles rentals and many transactions for

owners. A crew of five maintenance worker s maint ains t he lush grounds.

“We have a healthy [fund] reserve,” Turgeon said. Recent complex upgrades include a $2.2

million upgrade to all elevators, and an ongoing project to convert all blacktop to pavers, from the horseshoe road to parking lots. The communities lobby spaces have also been updated.

Recent sales:

According to Turgeon, there are 11 units currently for sale, including seven listed with Gulf & Bay Club Realty LLC. Eight units are listed through MLS. Over the past year, 11 units sold, ranging from $575,000 to $1.7 million. The sales ranged from $422 a square foot to $644 a square foot.

Here is a sampling of some of the recent sales: • At the top end of the sales, a 2,640-square-foot three bedroom, threeand-a-half bathroom unit sold for $1.7 million in July, 2015, or $644 a square foot.

• A 1,337-square foot two bedroom, two bathroom penthouse unit sold for $805,000 in May, 2015. That sale came out to $602 a square foot.

• A larger two-bedroom unit, at 1,947 square feet, sold for $1.1 million in May, 2015, as well. That unit features two and a half baths. The sale came out to $565 a square foot.

• In April, 2015, a 1,433 square foot unit sold for $732,500, or $511 a square foot. The renovated unit has two bedrooms and two bathrooms.

The kitchen includes granite countertops, wine cooler and built-in desk space.

• A 1,361 square-foot two-bedroom, two bathroom unit sold for $575,000, or $423 a square foot, in June, 2015.

Making Things Happen on Siesta Key...BOB and SHERI RUIZ

Luxurious Siesta Beach Villas

Enjoy the best of Siesta Key in this beautifully appointed 2/2 with 2 balconies and 2 car garage. Just one block to the Beach and Village.

MLS#A4139763 $899,000

Somerset Cove

Fabulous 4/3 1/2 home minutes to Beach and Village. 2 car garage, elevator, deeded boat dock with 10k lb. lift. Gated enclave of just 11 homes with community pool. MLS#A4145095 $779,000

Harbour Towne Yacht Club

Near beach and Intracoastal. Perfect for boaters and beachgoers.

Two large 2/2 end units with garages and docks are available.

MLS#A4128627 $499,000 and MLS#A4145143 $565,000

The Pointe on Midnight Pass

Amazing views of the Gulf and the Bay! This renovated two bedroom, two bath unit on the southernmost end of Siesta Key affords every amenity.

MLS#A4118450 $540,000

Your Resident Siesta Key Realtors - - -

Gulf & Bay Bayside

Great vacation or rental property. Across the street from Siesta Beach with dedicated beach access.

This 3/2 unit with attached garage is beautifully furnished.

MLS #A4142552 $689,000

Siesta Village - Villa Navarra

Great location! 1 block to the Beach and Siesta Village! This charming 2/2 has been nicely updated and is selling furnished. Move in without delay. $395,000

Bob Ruiz 941-544-3299 RobertRuizRR@aol.com Sheri Ruiz 941-400-4186 Sheri Lasley@aol.com www.SiestaKeyNow.com

Key Solutions Real Estate Group

www.siestasand.net

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March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

The Highs & Lows of Siesta Key’s Sold Properties Following are properties that sold on Siesta Key in February 2016, giving you a snapshot of what home properties are selling for on the Key for both single family homes and condos.

HIGHEST PRICED SINGLE FAMILY PROPERTY: 6100 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, SARASOTA, FL 34242 SOLD FOR: $4,700,000 Sarasota’s most coveted “old Florida” beach-front property includes over an acre of prime beach-front, and over 120 feet of frontage on Siesta Key Beach, voted

the #1 Beach in the USA. This property is considered the best, and the last, of a famous family-owned parcel that used to include Siesta Key public beach, and the Summerhouse Restaurant. This property offers numerous single or multi-family opportunities with spectacular, direct beach-front access. The private family compound includes two striking Sarasota School of Architecture structures by Carl Abbott from the 1980’s, and a romantic beach cottage from the 1930’s. All three enjoy incredible views of the beach, yet are hidden away with lush tropical vegetation. Courtesy of: Premier Sotheby’s International

LOWEST PRICED SINGLE FAMILY HOME: 660 VENICE LN, SARASOTA, FL 34242 - SOLD FOR: $480,000 This single-story, wood-framed home sits on 0.26 acres and is located in Siesta’s Bayside Waterside East subdivision; minutes from Siesta Key beach. It offers a 2 bedroom, 2 bath split floor plan with

bamboo and tile floors throughout the home, as well as vaulted ceilings. The large master bedroom has two walkin closets for extra space. The master bath has a spacious shower with an extra-large and deep spa tub for those long relaxing soaks. The second guest bedroom is actually another master suite with its own private bath, perfect for guests who need privacy when they visit.

A bonus room is included in this 1,528 Sq. Ft. home. The kitchen is spacious and clean with a lot of cabinet space as well as a closet pantry. The 2 car garage is attached and the home is surrounded by mature trees. Courtesy of: Keller Williams

HIGHEST PRICED CONDO: 5400 OCEAN BLVD, #16-2, SARASOTA, FL 34242 - SOLD FOR: $1,275,000 The best beachfront view on Siesta allowed by law. This exquisitely remodeled condo has a panoramic view from Longboat, Lido, downtown Sarasota thru the sugary beaches of

Siesta to Venice. Features Mediterranean appeal granite, Italian limestone floors, wood cabinets, custom wood doors, new ceiling to floor-wall to wall glass doors, granite breakfast bar, appliances include kitchen-aid, Dacor, Miele & SubZero. Prewired and speakers in place for surround sound, 4 tiled balconies & hurricane shutters. In a premier, high rise directly on the powder sands of crescent beach w/amenities: deeded beach access, fitness center, pool & garaged parking. A two minute stroll to the Village to enjoy the restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Courtesy of: Sun Real Estate Inc.

LOWEST PRICED CONDO: 9042 MIDNIGHT PASS RD, #1B, SARASOTA, FL 34242 SOLD FOR: $324,911 Beautifully furnished turn-key condo in Siesta Key with breathtaking sunsets. Gorgeous water views through wall to wall sliding glass doors located

in Mariners Inlet subdivision, on the southern end of the Key. Spacious, open floor plan. Stainless appliances, new ceiling fans, light fixtures, and fully updated bathrooms. High quality furniture, window coverings, wall art, flat screen TV’s and a fully stocked kitchen make this unit a pleasure to vacation in and it’s all included! Large screened lanai overlooking the water has ceiling fan and patio furniture. Pet friendly. Unit includes one car garage and a separate spacious storage locker with 2 bikes and beach cart. Dock space included. Units rents easily. Courtesy of: Exit Dream Team Realty

37

38 Siesta Sand

March 2016

Siesta Isles’ appeal The reason: The association had not obtained the necessary permit for the work, in spite of the fact that the organization had signed a contract with the county that reflected its plans to use a $10,000 award from the Neighborhood Grant Program to remodel the landscaping in the right of way medians on Shadow Lawn Way and Beach Way Drive, a staff memo noted.

In asking for a broader discussion of the Tree Ordinance on Jan. 26, Commissioner Christine Robinson referred to that Dec. 8 discussion: “We’ve seen just how nonsensical [the circumstances] could be.”

During the Jan. 26 public hearing, Howard Berna, the county’s manager of environmental permitting, explained that the changes to remedy what happened to the Siesta Isles Association were twofold. First, he said, the procedure regarding Neighborhood Initiative Grant proposals already had been updated so any plan involving landscaping — as well as tree removal, replacement or plantings — would go to the Environmental Permitting team for review.

That would enable the appropriate staff to evaluate “the net environmental benefit and also have the opportunity to comment on any ‘right plant — right place’ concerns,” Berna explained in a Jan. 26 memo to the board. By incorporating that review early in the process, the memo added, any potential conflicts could be resolved prior to the County Commission’s consideration of the grant request.

Second, Berna said, staff proposed a change in the portion of the Tree Ordinance regarding treeremoval exemptions, so it would encompass landscaping. The new language in Section 54-585(1)(g) of the code would say the following:

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Continued from cover story

“Tree Removal and Tree Relocation necessary for the maintenance of existing roads, utilities, landscaping, or stormwater facilities within rights-of-way and easements, or to comply with state technical specifications (e.g., for sight clearance), performed or contracted by a duly constituted communication, water sewerage, stormwater, electrical, other utility or government entity, or pursuant to an approved Sarasota County Neighborhood Initiative Grant for work within a public right-of-way.”

“Our office will ensure protection of Grand Trees and Canopy Roads,” Berna told the board.

No member of the public signed up to address the matter during the public hearing, Chair Al Maio noted after Berna concluded his presentation.

“While this fixes the precise issue that came before us,” Robinson pointed out, many of the complaints the board has heard have focused on “the lack of common sense [in] the ordinance in regards to several trees replacing one tree.” She added that the proposed change to the ordinance “doesn’t cure that aspect of [the problem].”

“What about a person who is trying to do this on their own property?” she continued, or a homeowners association that is not the recipient of a Neighborhood Grant Program award.

“We can get through this, Mr. Chair,” Robinson said, “but I’m interested in fixing the larger problem …”

“I would have to agree with Commissioner Robinson,” Commissioner Carolyn Mason told her colleagues. “I wholeheartedly agree that this just fixes this problem. I would not be adverse at all to looking at the whole [Tree] Ordinance.”

Tony Romanus addresses the County Commission in December. Sarasota News Leader photo

The goal, Mason continued, should be to avoid “a piecemeal approach” to resolving all the potential problems with the regulations.

Robinson made the motion to amend the Tree Ordinance to include the exemption Berna proposed. Commissioner Charles Hines seconded it, and it passed unanimously.

Hines then asked Matt Osterhoudt, senior manager in the Planning and Development Services Department, what his thoughts were on a more comprehensive approach to the issues at hand.

Osterhoudt gained clarification that the board was seeking a means of dealing with any tree replacement matter in which new plantings would be an improvement over the trees already standing. With the board’s concurrence, Osterhoudt said staff would delve into that issue and then schedule the matter for a discussion.

County Administrator Tom Harmer suggested staff incorporate its findings and recommendations into a typical board report, which it would deliver to the commission in advance of the discussion.

No board member objected to that approach.

Over at Siesta Isles …

During the Jan. 26 telephone interview, Romanus told me the contractor with whom Siesta Isles worked on Phase I of its beautification project had just finished planting the new trees the previous day. When county staff issued its stop-work order in September, he pointed out, it “basically delayed us for about four months.”

After the organization was ordered to cease tree removal in late September, he explained, he learned the earliest the County Commission could hear the appeal was Dec. 8.

Following the commission vote to uphold the association’s appeal, Romanus said, it took until mid-January to obtain the county permit Siesta Isles needed so a contractor could remove the existing trees and replace them, as planned, with 10 royal palms.

“It’s challenging because the spirit of that ordinance is to protect trees,” he noted. “But we were just trying to make [the landscaping at the entrances] more Floridafriendly.”

Phase II of Siesta Isles’ project encompasses the installation

of new entry signs; additional Florida-friendly landscaping; irrigation; and rebranding the association’s website, letterhead and newsletter to match the new signs, according to a summary of the application provided to the County Commission.

Material prepared for the board in advance of the Jan. 26 meeting also included the following information from the public benefit statement in the application: “The multiphase project includes improvements to the five entrances to Siesta Isles, all of which are accessible to the general public. … A portion of our neighborhood serves as an alternate route for many who desire to avoid the traffic on Beach Road. … Our goal is to establish a clear identity to all who are entering Siesta Isles, regardless of the entry they choose.”

The total expense of the project is $20,893.17, the documentation notes. Volunteers will provide 248 hours of time, which was accorded a total value of $3,720, the application adds.

With the $10,000 grant approved, Romanus told the stated, “We’ll be off to the races.”

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39

House Hunting Siesta Key to Long Boat Key Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442

• MAJESTIC 3/4 ACRE WATERFRONT ESTATE: $3,695,000 - 1419 Peregrine Point Drive, Sarasota, FL. MLS#A4138111.

6,579 sq ft Home (The Landings), 5 bedrooms, 2 offices, 4 1/2 baths, & 4-car garage. Heated pool/ spa, private dock & 10,000 lb boat lift. Marni Hayden. My Realty Company. 941-809-5044

• HOUSE FOR SALE PINEWOOD VILLAGE: MLS#A4139284. 2 Br, 2 Ba Condo 874 Sq ft. Ground level. Includes washer/dryer & screened lanai.

Clubhouse features billiards, gym and sauna. Call to schedule a showing. Moynihan Realty Group, James Moynihan. 941-349-4900.

• SIESTA DUNES CONDO: $895,000 - 6208 Midnight Pass Rd #405: MLS # A4143180.

2bd/2bth, Updated Condo w/ Gulf View. Judy Greene/Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker. 941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941-266-4873 (Tara)

• TUSCAN INSPIRED MASTERPIECE ON PALM ISLAND: $849,000 - 389 Island Cirlce, Sarasota, FL. MLS# A4110340. 4,134 sq ft single family home. 4 bedrooms, 4 ½ baths, roof top pool, private spacious in-law/guest apartment with separate entrance. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442

• 305 BEACH ROAD #2 - 1 block to the beach and Siesta Village. 2/2 with 2 balconies and 2 car garage. Built in 2011, high ceilings, latest hiend finishes. $499,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• 1445 GULF OF MEXICO DR #401: MLS# A4139748. Players Club, 2Bd/2Bth 1,753 sq ft Updated Condo w/ Gulf View. $995,000 Judy Greene/Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker. 941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941-266-4873 (Tara)

• 1249 DOCKSIDE PLACE - Short walk to Siesta Beach with deeded boat dock. Spacious 2/2 with garage. Turnkey furnished. $519,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz.

Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• 5430 EAGLES POINT CIR #201 - The Landings.

MLS # A4142226. 3Bd/2.5Bth Intracoastal View. $599,000 Judy Greene/Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker.

941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941-266-4873 (Tara)

• 6151 HOLLYWOOD BLVD, SARASOTA Amazing West of Trail Triplex in Pine Shores area. Front building consists of two 1bed/1bath units. Rear building is a 3bed/2bath unit.

MLS#A4141309. $438,000. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442

• 1350 SIESTA BAYSIDE - Great vacation home or investment property. Deeded beach access just across the street. Beautifully furnished 3/2 with garage. $689,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• 5450 EAGLES POINT CIR #105 - The Landings MLS # A4141454. 3Bd/2Bth Open Terrace, Water View, $699,000 Judy Greene/Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker.

941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941-266-4873 (Tara)

• 322 ISLAND CIRCLE: $949,000 - Recently renovated Palm Island/Siesta Key home.

4Bd/4Bth, new boat lift on the Grand Canal. Huge bonus area on lower level. MLS#A4141071. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands. 941-376-7442

• 9397 MIDNIGHT PASS ROAD #401 Incredible Gulf and Bay views from this furnished 2/2 end unit on the south end of Siesta. Boat docks and every amenity. $540,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-544-3299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• 1630 STARLING DR - The Landings MLS # A4135262. 2Bd/2Bth Ground Floor Coach House, $265,000. Judy Greene/Tara Lamb, Michael Saunders & Company Licensed Real Estate Broker, 941-350-0451 (Judy) or 941-266-4873 (Tara)

• 1122 HORIZON VIEW DRIVE: $997,000 Deeded beach access. Immaculate pool home features large rooms and vaulted ceilings along with lower level bonus area. 3 Bd/3½ Bths. MLS# A4139847. Dan Miller, Re/Max Tropical Sands.

941-376-7442

• VILLA NAVARRA – 1 block to Siesta Village and beach. Charming 2/2 has been nicely renovated and is selling furnished. Just bring your clothing and your set! $395,000. Key Solutions Real Estate Group, Sheri & Bob Ruiz. Bob: 941-5443299 or Sheri: 941-400-4186.

• HOUSE FOR SALE AQUALANE ESTATES: MLS#A4140194. 3 Br, 2 Ba, SFH. 2076 Sq ft. Direct access to the bay. On the canal. Minutes from Siesta Beach. Call to schedule a showing. Moynihan Realty Group, James Moynihan. 941-349-4900.

• 418 ISLAND CIRCLE: $1,625,000 - Key West style Grand Canal home on Siesta Key. 3Bd/3Bth. lushly landscaped tropical lot with Tiki Bar in the pool/spa area. MLS#A3990080. Dan Miller, Re/

• TURNKEY FURNISHED CONDO ON SIESTA BAYSIDE - 3 bedroom, 2 bath townhouse with attached private garage, gorgeous harbor views, and private Siesta Key Beach access. 1341 Siesta Bayside Dr. MLS#A1341-b Siesta Key $789,000 MLS #A4139290. Key Solutions Real Estate, (941)894-1255 • A RARE OPPORTUNITY IN GULF GATE - 4 bedroom 2 bathroom pool home on an oversized corner lot in Gulf Gate. Only 5 minutes to beach, shopping and dining. 2527 Mooring Ln Sarasota $299,000 MLS #A4138658. Key Solutions Real Estate, (941)894-1255 • TURNKEY FURNISHED SIESTA CONDO Relish the view of the bay and amazing sunrises from your bedroom, living room or lanai in this 1 bedroom 1 bath condo. 8897 Midnight Pass Rd. #104 $279,900 MLS#A4138346. Key Solutions Real Estate, (941)894-1255 • YOUR OWN PIECE OF PARADISE! Beautifully remodeled condo features a split floor plan with 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms and a kitchen that’s open to the living area. 1050 Longboat Club Rd. #205 $599,900 MLS#A4136773. Key Solutions Real Estate, (941)894-1255 • 1622 STICKNEY PT. RD. #202 - $330,000 - Castel del Mare MLS# 4141678. Completely updated, two-story townhome. 2/1.5. Furnished.

Kristina von Kessel Michael Saunders & Co. licensed realtor. 941-266-2848 • 3665 WHITE PINE CT. #130 - $245,000 - Village des Pins MLS# 4144411. Updated, bright 2/2 villa near Sarasota Square and Costco. Brigitte von Kessel Michael Saunders & Co. licensed realtor.

941-266-2174.

Paradise Awaits...

E IC D! PR UCE D RE

389 Island Circle, Sarasota, FL

1122 Horizon View Dr., Sarasota, FL

Single Family Home, 4 BR, 4.5 BA, Private Pool, Corner Lot, 1 Car Attached Garage, Located on Palm Island on Siesta Key, A Short Walk To The Beach, Wood and Marble Flooring Throughout, Low Maintenance Yard, Private and Secluded

Deeded beach access! Lovely oak floors and stylish tiles will dazzle you. 3 BR, 3.5 BA with lower level bonus area.

Oversized garage for all your toys and vehicles.

A truly unique find!

849,000

$

997,000

$

6151 Hollywood Blvd., Sarasota, FL

Front building consists of two 1 BR, 1 BA units. Rear building is a 3 BR, 2 BA unit. Close to beach and shopping. Walking distance to shopping. Upside potential.

438,000

$

418 Island Circle, Sarasota, FL

Single Family Home, 3 BR, 2.5 BA Key West Style Grand Canal home on Siesta Key. Built in 2005. Huge lower level bonus area, pool shower, 4-car garage. Open floor plan.

Custom touches, must see!

1,625,000

$

322 Island Circle, Sarasota, FL

Spacious 4 BR, 4 BA house located on desireable Palm Island. Newly renovated kitchen, master BR and master BA. New boat lift on Grand Canal. Heated pool land spa, private waterfront Tiki bar. Huge bonus area on lower level. Short walk to World Famous Siesta Beach and Siesta Village. Perfect home or investment property for the discerning buyer.

949,000

$

Service. Integrity. Results.

Tropical Sands

Dan D. Miller 941-376-7442 Licensed Real Estate Professional ddm1@comcast.net

40 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Classifieds / Here’s My Card ACCOMMODATIONS

DRY CLEANERS

• 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

HOUSE WATCH

HOUSE WATCH SERVICES, LLC

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

• 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

Environmentally Conscious Laundry and Dry Cleaning Service

• Siesta Village Private Pool Homes – Luxury Private Beach Homes-3 Bed, 3Bath; and a 2Bed, 2 1/2 bath condo www.vrbo. com/459795 www.vrbo.com/709508 www.vrbo.com/669208 • Siesta Key Realty-Property Management, Vacation Rentals – 1, 2, 3 bedrooms. Serving Siesta Key since 1992. siestakeyrealtyrentals.com 941-349-8900.

ANTIQUES

Vintage, Antique, Mid-Century

Relics on the Key

www.relicsonthekey.com relicsonthekey@gmail.com (941) 346-3600 Phone 5049 Ocean Blvd Like us on (941) 346-7600 Fax Relicsonthekey Siesta Key Village BEACH & BABY EQUIPMENT RENTALS

Licensed and Insured

30 years experience

SARASOTA’S BEST BABY RENTAL CENTER CLEAN • SAFE • RELIABLE Lynn & Bob Shaffer, Owners

941-929-1850

Free Pick Up & Delivery Service from your home or business

Call 941-275-4647

ExEcutivE Shirt SErvicE • houSEhold itEmS • SamE day SErvicE availablE

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) 961-4309

941-914-3936

www.SuncoastHomeConcierge.com

• 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 and craftsmen. His passion is delighting his clients, turning their home-improvement dreams into a beautiful reality. Call 941-650-9499 or visit their website: www.hawksnestconstruction.com.

Grout Problems?

Shower & Bathtub Walls

Cleaned • Regrouted • Caulked • Sealed

Dermatology Skin CanCer laSer, Botox anD Hair/nail DiSorDerS 1952 Field Road Sarasota, Florida 34231

J Morgan Nathaniel Swartz, O’Donoghue, MD. PA-C

Amy Fenenga PA-C

941.926.7546

www.dermatologyexperts.com

Shower & Bath Makeovers Free Estimates

BOATING RENTALS / FISHING CHARTERS

www.showerandbathsarasota.com

941-400-2452

MEDICAL

Commercial/Residential

Call John

Tony Fudoli Sr. CAPTAIN tntfreedomfishing@yahoo.com

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

(941) 955-1864

CONTRACTORS

5252 Gulf Drive 2300 Bee Ridge Road, Suite 204 Holmes Beach, FL 34217 Sarasota, FL 34239 www.abcbabyrental.com

Having Fun Fishing in The Sun

R. BRuce Whittinghill, llc

941.377.2940

Sarasota resident since 1974

• 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. 941-921-1113, www. wilson-window.com.

Family Practitioners • Pediatrics-Geratrics • Urgent Care

Pierre Nedelcovych, M.D. FAAFP FAAUCM

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

MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES

Clean Touch Group

Veteran Owned Business

is looking for

HOUSEKEEPER PERSONNEL in the Siesta Key, Florida area

• 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.

Must be comfortable working in a fast paced environment. Great Pay. Apply in person.

Best Western Plus Siesta Key 6600 S. Tamiami Trail • Sarasota, FL 34231 Please ask to see the Housekeeper Supervisor

LANDINGS RESIDENT OWNED AND OPERATED

HEALTH / FITNESS

Deep tissue massage is our specialty

65

$

941-896-6400 www.kathleend.net

CONSIGNMENT STORE

L ved again Boutique Upscale Women’s Consignment Store Mention This Ad And Take An Additional

15% OFF With Purchase Offer Expires 3/31/16

4141 S. Tamiami Trail #8, Sarasota, FL 34231 941-702-8159 lovedagainboutiquesrq@gmail.com

941.920.0010 MA34776

90 Minute

Deep Tissue Massage

A Healer’s Touch

3800 Tamiami Trail

(Corner of Bay Street & Hwy 41/Paradise Plaza by Silverberg Jewelry)

• Nirvana Juice Bar Express - Siesta Key residents: if you remember the days when Nirvana Juice Bar was located in Siesta Key Village, take heart. You can now order the same fresh juices and smoothies and have them delivered to your door. Visit their website www.nirvanajuicebar.com for an expanded menu or call 941-228-6367.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-349-0194

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

41

Classifieds / Here’s My Card MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES CONTINUED

SPAS / HAIR & BEAUTY CONTINUED

SENIOR SERVICES

Siesta Key Beachcombers

“When Family Can’t Be There” 8482 S. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, FL 34238

(941) 302-1149

SEE OUR FULL PAGE AD!

We Find Your Lost Valuables Tips Greatly Appreciated

Professional services provided by RN, LPN, CNA/HHA, Companions

Christine Laboissonniere

941-780-3851

adaughterstouch@gmail.com License #299994261

• A Bridge for Independence provides in home companion services including companionship, transportation, light housekeeping, medication reminders and meal preparation and planning.

• Robin Hood Rentals – for all your Siesta Key rental needs with Call us at 866-279-4390, FL License #230517 a wide variety segways, bikes, kayaks, scooters and more, free pickup and delivery anywhere on the key. 5255 Ocean Blvd Siesta • Senior Home Companions – companionship and In-Home care. daily living needs, hourly, overnight, 24-hour care, 941-924-0494 Key Village. 941-554-4242

SPORTS RENTALS / ACCESSORIES

• 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

REAL ESTATE AGENTS

(941) 349-7742

Phil Perrella Carolyn Lewis Jeff Lewis

FAX: (941) 346-5048

Tell Every Living Sole!

FLORIDA REALTY

Dennis Kedzierski, GRI REALTOR®

8319 Market St., Sarasota, FL 34202 Cell: 941.685.5514 denbeck2@verizon.net www.DennySells.com

New Homes startiNg From $289,000 aNd Up Providing Professional Real Estate Services Since 1972 Don Muenzmay GRI,CRS, SRES 941-374-3865 Email: dmuenzmay@aol.com

Sue Preece SFR, e-PRO, CNE

941-350-2666 Fax: 866-801-5663 Email: suepreece44@aol.com Harry E. Robbins Assoc. Inc. 3733 S. Tuttle Ave., Sarasota, FL 34239 Referrals Are Always Appreciated

GulfToGolfRESarasota.com

TRANSPORTATION

AIRPORT TRANSPORT SUPERST TO:

R

Picked Up from Airport $ $ SRQ 30 40 Price $ 125 Tampa/St. Pete $105 Includes: $ $ 130 150 S.W. Florida Tolls, Fuel $ $ 350 500 Miami and $ $ 225 250 Orlando Parking PLEASE TIP YOUR DRIVER

From Sarasota

For Airport Pickups Your Chauffeur Will Have A Sign With Your Name On It!

941-735-4732 Friend Us at: Eddie Ward

• Making things happen on Siesta Key with Real Estate agents Bob and Sheri Ruiz from Key Solutions Real Estate Group. If • Sun Ride Pedicab – Eco-friendly Pedicabs. Siesta Key Tours you are looking to buy or sell on the Key contact us. Bob Ruiz and rides – tips only, 941-343-3400 941-544-3299 RobertRuizRR@aol.com, Sheri Ruiz 941-400-4186 SheriLasley@aol.com • Siesta Key Free Rides – Siesta Key Free island shuttle for beach, village, condo and tours – tips only. Electric vehicles. Call 941• Your Siesta Dunes and Landings Preferred Partners in Real 952-8294 Estate, Judy Greene 941-350-0451 and Tara Lamb 941-266-4873 with Michael Sanders & Company 5100 Ocean Blvd Siesta Key • Jonny’s Original Free Ride – The Original Ride the Key Free 34242 JudyGreene@MichaelSanders.com service on Siesta to anywhere, everyday from 10 AM – 2 AM. Driver tips only. Call 941-928-9200.

• Your Siesta Key Real Estate Agent: I have 23 years of experience working and living on Siesta Key and selling almost exclusively • Dollar Limo – holds up to 10 people and is cheaper than a D.U.I this area. If you’re curious about your home’s value in today’s or taxi. Call 941-735-4732 market, call me. You’ll be glad you did!!! Benny Kimsey 941-4007212. RealEstateGuyFL@yahoo.com www.yourrealestateguy.com

SPAS / HAIR & BEAUTY • Feel the difference in quality - receive a massage from Joni Masse who has been teaching and providing massage therapy for 25 years. Just over the Stickney Point Bridge. Call today for an appt. 941-374-0965 (MA10776/MM31466)

Straight Razor Shaves And More...

4141 South Tamiami Trail, Suite 21, Sarasota, FL 34231 941-926-2631 www.frankssalon.com

• 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 Experience Siesta Key Open 7-day a week. 5138A Ocean Blvd, Siesta Key, 941-349-4833

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

2300 Bee Ridge Road #103 Sarasota, Florida 34239 Email: TOTALTENNISOFSK@GMAIL.COM Website: TOTALTENNISSARASOTA.COM

A member of the franchise system of BHH Affiliates LLC

Places of Worship

Transportation for everyone on the Sun Coast Friendliest Ride In Town

Off- Island: •Temple Sinai, a Reform Congregation (The closest Jewish congregation to the Key for visitors) 4631 S. Lockwood Ridge Rd, Sarasota, 941-924-1802 www.templesinai-sarasota.org • St. Andrew United Church of Christ (Protestant) (In the Gulf Gate area, near Beneva and Gulf Gate Drive) 6908 Beneva Road, Sarasota, 941.922.7595 www.uccstandrew.org • The Superior Word Rev. Charlie Garrett Service starts Sunday mornings at 10am.

Bring a friend and share in God’s word.

6512 Superior Avenue Sarasota, Florida 34242 • First Christian Church 7601 Clark Road, Sarasota, FL 34241.

941-922-4434 www.fccsarasota.com

Answers to the WORD SEARCH MarinerWordfound Search on page 33 www.TheMariner.com Answers from Page 18

Place your classified ad here for $6.

(15 words) and $.10 for each additional word.

Dania Copy must be submitted with Marine Flea payment on or before the 15th of the Market month prior to publication.

For display ads, please call 941-349-0194 for rates.

TO ADVERTISE CALL 941-349-0194

42 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Accommodations Locator Map

Š Island Visitor Publishing, LLC 2012

www.siestasand.net

941.349.0194

March 2016

Island Visitor Publishing, LLC

43

The Link Between Periodontal Disease and Heart Disease Does a healthy mouth equal a healthy heart? More and more, the research says “yes.”

Doctors have been talking about the potential link for nearly two decades and with good reason. Heart disease is a serious problem around the world. So is poor oral health. Could better brushing and flossing give you a healthier heart? And could a dentist take a peek inside your mouth and see if you’re at risk for heart disease?

So I am sure you are wondering what is the Link?

In a word, inflammation or swelling. Scientists know that it leads to hardened arteries, also called atherosclerosis. That’s a condition that makes it hard for blood to flow to your heart. It puts you at greater risk for heart attack and stroke.

Inflammation is also a sure sign of gum disease. Sore, swollen gums are the main symptom. There are two main types: gingivitis, which causes

red, painful, tender gums, and periodontitis, which leads to infected pockets of germy pus.

That’s the type that raises the worry for heart problems. It allows bacteria and other toxins to spread below the gum line.

“Your gums are very vascular, meaning they’re full of blood vessels. And, your mouth is full of bacteria. If you disrupt the gum layer even a little bit, you’re going to get bacteria in your bloodstream, which can go anywhere and trigger inflammation throughout the body,” Gaukhman says.

“Inflammation is one of the main things that cause damage to blood vessels, including those of the heart.”

Studies show that the bacteria found in periodontal disease – including Streptococcus sanguis, which plays a role in strokes-spreads to the heart. “The two appear to go hand-in-hand, “In the absence of Gum disease, there is significantly less of these

bacteria in the heart.”

Some research suggests that the more bacteria you have from gum-disease, the thicker your carotid arteries may be. If they’re too thick, blood can’t flow to your brain. That can cause a stroke.

“Quite simply, the more bacteria you have in your body, the more the heart will be affected,” Dr. Gaukhman says.

“If we can reduce the long-term bacteria present in our bodies, I believe it will lower the risk factor to heart disease.”

But both experts warn this doesn’t mean you need to rush out for antibiotics before your next dental visit. Guidelines for antibiotic use before dental procedures have changed in recent years. If you take them when it’s not necessary, you might find they don’t work when you do need them. Ask your doctor if you need to take them.

“People with bad periodontal

disease tend to have bad health habits in general, “They aren’t taking care of themselves. Many are smokers. They probably aren’t exercising; they may not be eating well. We know all of those things are some of the strongest predictors of heart disease.”

A lot of people with periodontal disease also have diabetes, which is another strong risk factor for heart disease, he adds.

Brush Your Teeth, Boost Your Heart?

The American Heart Association says there’s no evidence that you can prevent heart disease by preventing gum disease.

But it’s important to get regular dental checkups -including dental X-rays. You should also be sure to treat any gum disease early if you want to save your choppers and stay healthy. “If you are aggressive about treating your mouth

health, your overall health gets better, too. So go ahead -- brush your teeth a bit longer or floss a little more often. Everyone likes a clean and healthy mouth, and maybe your heart just might love it, too.

Come in and see Dr. Gaukhman in our office for your FREE Perio Consult.

Sarasota 5223 Avenida Navarra Sarasota, FL 34242 (941) 266-7000 Osprey 416 S. Tamiami Trail, Suite F1 Osprey, FL 34229 (941) 497-5650 Venice 463 US HWY 41 Bypass S. Venice, FL 34285 (941) 375-4488 www.siestadental.com Advertorial

44 Siesta Sand

March 2016

941.349.0194 www.siestasand.net

Island Girl This month’s island girl is Floridian native, Krystal Lee who can’t imagine living anywhere else. Krystal Lee’s passion is working on bridal hair and make-up from her Krystal Lee Salon in Sarasota. When she’s not behind the chair making someone look and feel beautiful, you can find her on the beach. She loves paddle boarding, boating, fishing, kayaking, and anything on the water.

Krystal Lee also loves bike riding down by the Siesta Key Village where you can grab a bite to eat or hear live music. Who doesn’t love feeling like they are on island time all the time! Krystal Lee is modeling Floridita Swimwear.

www.floriditaswimwear.com

Krystal Lee

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)